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China’s near-absolute dominance of some of the rarest rare-earth elements is choking US defence and semiconductor industries that depend on these critical minerals. According to a recent Reuters report, suppliers to US aerospace and chip-making firms are facing worsening shortages of certain rare earth elements, particularly niche ones like yttrium and scandium known. At least two suppliers have turned away some clients due to these constraints, the report said, citing sources.<h2>Why are rare earths like yttrium and scandium important?</h2>Yttrium and scandium are generally classified as heavy rare earths, a category that also includes elements such as dysprosium and terbium. Yttrium and scandium are critical for high-performance applications in aerospace and chips. They play vital roles in defence technology and aerospace components, and are used in coatings and other specialised parts.In the semiconductor industry, these rare earths are used in next-generation 5G chips and other advanced components.<h2>China’s export controls on rare earths</h2>Amid trade tensions over critical minerals, China imposed export controls in April 2025 on several medium and heavy rare earths. This action sharply reduced overseas shipments, The shortages of rare earths mentioned above persisted despite a partial trade truce later in 2025.The Reuters report, citing Chinese customs data, said that US imports of yttrium products plunged to just 17 tonnes in the eight months after curbs were imposed, from 333 tonnes in the eight months before controls.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-president-lula-sign-rare-earths-deal-set-aim-for-over-20-billion-bilateral-trade-1771674319506">Modi and Lula sign rare earths deal, set target of over $20 billion bilateral trade in 5 years</a><h2>From jet engines to chips: What is affected by Chinese dominance of rare earths?</h2>China’s control over the rare earth supply chain is creating a strategic vulnerability for US aerospace, affecting avionics, engines and defence systems. However, there are no reports of jet engine or chip manufacturing being halted outright because of the rare-earth curbs by China.A US official cited in the Reuters report said that some manufacturers face outright “shortages” of certain rare earths from China.Semiconductor experts warned that low scandium supplies specifically risk next-generation chip production.<h2>China’s leverage in the rare earths sector is growing</h2>China’s responses to US tariffs and tech restrictions have included expanding export controls on rare earths. These curbs particularly targeted defence and chip uses of rare earth materials. China added elements such as holmium, erbium, thulium, europium and ytterbium to the restricted list.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-about-china-why-india-joining-pax-silica-alliance-on-rare-earths-supply-chain-chip-making-and-ai-is-a-big-deal-1771580224467">https://www.wionews.com/world/not-about-china-why-india-joining-pax-silica-alliance-on-rare-earths-supply-chain-chip-making-and-ai-is-a-big-deal-1771580224467</a><h2>China’s overwhelming dominance in rare earths supply chain&nbsp;</h2>China accounts for a large share of global rare earth mining output. Estimates vary, but it is widely reported to be above 60 to 70 per cent of total production, depending on the minerals.When it comes to processing and refining rare earths, China controls an even larger share of global capacity. Estimates suggest China dominates around 90 per cent of global separation, refining and processing capacity, making it difficult to bypass China for the high-purity materials needed downstream. For heavy rare earths such as yttrium and scandium, Chinese dominance in processing is often reported at extremely high levels.China also produces a very large percentage of the global supply of permanent magnets, which are the key end products that use rare earths. These magnets are essential for electric vehicles, wind turbines, aerospace, defence and electronics.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-deal-china-to-suspend-rare-earth-curbs-probes-on-us-chip-firms-1762069999007/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-deal-china-to-suspend-rare-earth-curbs-probes-on-us-chip-firms-1762069999007/embed</a><h2>US efforts to diversify are not yet succeeding</h2>China’s export restrictions have disrupted US industries that depend on rare earths. The US has been trying to diversify supply chains with investments in domestic projects and partnerships, including efforts involving MP Materials and Department of Defence initiatives. However, such efforts take time, and processing facilities can take years to become operational. Dependency on China for heavy rare earths may well persist into the 2030s.

China’s export curbs on rare earths like yttrium and scandium are causing supply shortages in US aerospace and chipmaker industries. Reliance on Chinese mining and processing of rare earths is emerging as a liability for these industries. And a solution is far away

China’s near-absolute dominance of some of the rarest rare-earth elements is choking US defence and semiconductor industries that depend on these critical minerals. According to a recent Reuters report, suppliers to US aerospace and chip-making firms are facing worsening shortages of certain rare earth elements, particularly niche ones like yttrium and scandium known. At least two suppliers have turned away some clients due to these constraints, the report said, citing sources. Why are rare earths like yttrium and scandium important? Yttrium and scandium are generally classified as heavy rare earths, a category that also includes elements such as dysprosium and terbium. Yttrium and scandium are critical for high-performance applications in aerospace and chips. They play vital roles in defence technology and aerospace components, and are used in coatings and other specialised parts. In the semiconductor industry, these rare earths are used in next-generation 5G chips and other advanced components. China’s export controls on rare earths Amid trade tensions over critical minerals, China imposed export controls in April 2025 on several medium and heavy rare earths. This action sharply reduced overseas shipments, The shortages of rare earths mentioned above persisted despite a partial trade truce later in 2025. The Reuters report, citing Chinese customs data, said that US imports of yttrium products plunged to just 17 tonnes in the eight months after curbs were imposed, from 333 tonnes in the eight months before controls. Also read: Modi and Lula sign rare earths deal, set target of over $20 billion bilateral trade in 5 years From jet engines to chips: What is affected by Chinese dominance of rare earths? China’s control over the rare earth supply chain is creating a strategic vulnerability for US aerospace, affecting avionics, engines and defence systems. However, there are no reports of jet engine or chip manufacturing being halted outright because of the rare-earth curbs by China. A US official cited in the Reuters report said that some manufacturers face outright “shortages” of certain rare earths from China. Semiconductor experts warned that low scandium supplies specifically risk next-generation chip production. China’s leverage in the rare earths sector is growing China’s responses to US tariffs and tech restrictions have included expanding export controls on rare earths. These curbs particularly targeted defence and chip uses of rare earth materials. China added elements such as holmium, erbium, thulium, europium and ytterbium to the restricted list. Also read: https://www.wionews.com/world/not-about-china-why-india-joining-pax-silica-alliance-on-rare-earths-supply-chain-chip-making-and-ai-is-a-big-deal-1771580224467 China’s overwhelming dominance in rare earths supply chain China accounts for a large share of global rare earth mining output. Estimates vary, but it is widely reported to be above 60 to 70 per cent of total production, depending on the minerals. When it comes to processing and refining rare earths, China controls an even larger share of global capacity. Estimates suggest China dominates around 90 per cent of global separation, refining and processing capacity, making it difficult to bypass China for the high-purity materials needed downstream. For heavy rare earths such as yttrium and scandium, Chinese dominance in processing is often reported at extremely high levels. China also produces a very large percentage of the global supply of permanent magnets, which are the key end products that use rare earths. These magnets are essential for electric vehicles, wind turbines, aerospace, defence and electronics. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-deal-china-to-suspend-rare-earth-curbs-probes-on-us-chip-firms-1762069999007/embed US efforts to diversify are not yet succeeding China’s export restrictions have disrupted US industries that depend on rare earths. The US has been trying to diversify supply chains with investments in domestic projects and partnerships, including efforts involving MP Materials and Department of Defence initiatives. However, such efforts take time, and processing facilities can take years to become operational. Dependency on China for heavy rare earths may well persist into the 2030s.

China’s export curbs on rare earths like yttrium and scandium are causing supply shortages in US aerospace and chipmaker industries. Reliance on Chinese mining and processing of rare earths is emerging as a liability for these industries. And a solution is far away

Chinese chokehold on rarest of rare earths is squeezing US defence and semiconductor industries. Here is how

Shafiqur Rahman, the chief of Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami and the current opposition leader in Parliament, has sharply criticised President Mohammed Shahabuddin over his recent remarks concerning the dramatic political transition of August 5, 2024. The dispute follows an interview the President gave to the Bangla daily Kaler Kantho, in which he discussed the treatment he allegedly faced during the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus after Sheikh Hasina stepped down and left the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rahman, reacting in a Facebook post, accused the president of failing to disclose the full truth about the circumstances surrounding Hasina’s resignation. According to Rahman, Shahabuddin’s present comments do not align with what he reportedly told political leaders on the day Hasina resigned. He questioned why the President’s latest version of events differs from the statements broadcast to the nation at the time. Rahman also pressed the president to clarify inconsistencies regarding the controversial resignation letter, which remains at the centre of public debate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-tensions-escalate-as-tokyo-announces-plans-to-deploy-missiles-on-island-near-taiwan-what-s-happening-1772088423074">China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening</a>&nbsp;He argued that citizens are fully aware of the sequence of events and described any lack of transparency from the head of state as unacceptable. Rahman’s remarks come shortly after Shahabuddin alleged that Muhammad Yunus had attempted to remove him from office through unconstitutional means during his tenure as chief adviser. The president claimed that efforts were made under the interim administration to undermine constitutional order and create instability. The renewed clash has revived long-standing accusations from Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League that Yunus’s interim government emboldened Islamist factions in the aftermath of the August uprising.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zimbabwe-bans-export-of-all-raw-minerals-critical-minerals-export-frozen-1772096376138/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/zimbabwe-bans-export-of-all-raw-minerals-critical-minerals-export-frozen-1772096376138/embed</a>&nbsp;Controversy continues to swirl around the question of Hasina’s resignation. On August 5, shortly after she left the country, Shahabuddin publicly stated that he had received her resignation letter. Such documentation was essential to formalise the establishment of the interim government.&nbsp;However, in an October 2024 interview with Janatar Chokh, the President appeared to contradict his earlier statement, saying he had only been informed of her resignation and had been unable to obtain the letter despite repeated attempts. That apparent reversal sparked calls for his impeachment, though he ultimately retained his position.Shahabuddin has since maintained that there were multiple attempts during the Yunus-led administration to pressure him out of office.

Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman accuses Bangladesh’s president of hiding facts about Sheikh Hasina’s 2024 resignation and political transition

Shafiqur Rahman, the chief of Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami and the current opposition leader in Parliament, has sharply criticised President Mohammed Shahabuddin over his recent remarks concerning the dramatic political transition of August 5, 2024. The dispute follows an interview the President gave to the Bangla daily Kaler Kantho, in which he discussed the treatment he allegedly faced during the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus after Sheikh Hasina stepped down and left the country. Rahman, reacting in a Facebook post, accused the president of failing to disclose the full truth about the circumstances surrounding Hasina’s resignation. According to Rahman, Shahabuddin’s present comments do not align with what he reportedly told political leaders on the day Hasina resigned. He questioned why the President’s latest version of events differs from the statements broadcast to the nation at the time. Rahman also pressed the president to clarify inconsistencies regarding the controversial resignation letter, which remains at the centre of public debate. Also Read: China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening He argued that citizens are fully aware of the sequence of events and described any lack of transparency from the head of state as unacceptable. Rahman’s remarks come shortly after Shahabuddin alleged that Muhammad Yunus had attempted to remove him from office through unconstitutional means during his tenure as chief adviser. The president claimed that efforts were made under the interim administration to undermine constitutional order and create instability. The renewed clash has revived long-standing accusations from Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League that Yunus’s interim government emboldened Islamist factions in the aftermath of the August uprising. https://www.wionews.com/videos/zimbabwe-bans-export-of-all-raw-minerals-critical-minerals-export-frozen-1772096376138/embed Controversy continues to swirl around the question of Hasina’s resignation. On August 5, shortly after she left the country, Shahabuddin publicly stated that he had received her resignation letter. Such documentation was essential to formalise the establishment of the interim government. However, in an October 2024 interview with Janatar Chokh, the President appeared to contradict his earlier statement, saying he had only been informed of her resignation and had been unable to obtain the letter despite repeated attempts. That apparent reversal sparked calls for his impeachment, though he ultimately retained his position. Shahabuddin has since maintained that there were multiple attempts during the Yunus-led administration to pressure him out of office.

Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman accuses Bangladesh’s president of hiding facts about Sheikh Hasina’s 2024 resignation and political transition

Bangladesh political row deepens as Jamaat chief, Shafiqur Rahman, questions president Mohammed Shahabuddin over Sheikh Hasina's resignation

The Trump administration is blocking Venezuela from paying the legal expenses of the abducted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, as the pair face a bizarre, Kafkaesque trial in the US over drug-trafficking and weapons charges. Lawyers suggest that it violates the constitutional right to counsel.Attorney Barry Pollack, in a letter to the federal judge, has said that the US Treasury Department has blocked the Venezuelan Government from paying the legal fees that it is required to pay for Maduro and its first lady, Cilia Flores, by law and custom. The mail was entered into the public record on Wednesday.Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were abducted from his country in a dramatic midnight raid in early January. He was then paraded in an open vehicle throughout New York City, and then placed on a trial where both of them pleaded not guilty. On February 9, the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control granted permission to Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodrigues for the payment of the legal fees of Maduro and his wife. But within 3 hours, it cancelled the authorisation granting license “without explanation”, though maintained the license for Cilia Flores.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cia-farsi-recruitment-iran-trump-us-iran-talks-1772082947693">CIA posts Farsi video urging Iranian to share intelligence online</a>The next hearing for the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is scheduled for March 26, 2026. The trial itself is bizarre, a bureaucratic exercise that lies outside the jurisdiction of the US federal law. US authorities at first tried to frame it as “war on drugs”, blaming a certain “Cartel de los Soles”. Caracas has questioned the legitimacy of these charges, recalling that an original indictment against Maduro for leading the so-called “Cartel de Los Soles” was withdrawn due to a lack of concrete evidence.&nbsp;Now the US is charging the President of a state who is eligible for diplomatic immunity under federal law with drug-trafficking and weapons charges. The 25-page indictment still accuses Maduro and his wife of facilitating drugs into the US and kidnapping, murdering those who owed them money. The US prosecutors understood that allowing the Venezuelan government to pay the legal fees of Maduro would make their case weak, under the argument that his capture was illegal and that, as the foreign head of a state, he is immune from prosecution under US and international law.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has blocked Venezuela from paying legal fees for deposed president Nicolás Maduro’s defence in his US drug and weapons trial, raising constitutional concerns

The Trump administration is blocking Venezuela from paying the legal expenses of the abducted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, as the pair face a bizarre, Kafkaesque trial in the US over drug-trafficking and weapons charges. Lawyers suggest that it violates the constitutional right to counsel. Attorney Barry Pollack, in a letter to the federal judge, has said that the US Treasury Department has blocked the Venezuelan Government from paying the legal fees that it is required to pay for Maduro and its first lady, Cilia Flores, by law and custom. The mail was entered into the public record on Wednesday. Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were abducted from his country in a dramatic midnight raid in early January. He was then paraded in an open vehicle throughout New York City, and then placed on a trial where both of them pleaded not guilty. On February 9, the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control granted permission to Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodrigues for the payment of the legal fees of Maduro and his wife. But within 3 hours, it cancelled the authorisation granting license “without explanation”, though maintained the license for Cilia Flores. Also Read: CIA posts Farsi video urging Iranian to share intelligence online The next hearing for the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is scheduled for March 26, 2026. The trial itself is bizarre, a bureaucratic exercise that lies outside the jurisdiction of the US federal law. US authorities at first tried to frame it as “war on drugs”, blaming a certain “Cartel de los Soles”. Caracas has questioned the legitimacy of these charges, recalling that an original indictment against Maduro for leading the so-called “Cartel de Los Soles” was withdrawn due to a lack of concrete evidence. Now the US is charging the President of a state who is eligible for diplomatic immunity under federal law with drug-trafficking and weapons charges. The 25-page indictment still accuses Maduro and his wife of facilitating drugs into the US and kidnapping, murdering those who owed them money. The US prosecutors understood that allowing the Venezuelan government to pay the legal fees of Maduro would make their case weak, under the argument that his capture was illegal and that, as the foreign head of a state, he is immune from prosecution under US and international law.

The Trump administration has blocked Venezuela from paying legal fees for deposed president Nicolás Maduro’s defence in his US drug and weapons trial, raising constitutional concerns

Trump blocks Venezuela from paying Maduro’s legal fees amid US trial

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Centre in Jerusalem, along with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his two-day visit to Israel. During the visit, PM Modi paid tribute to the victims of the Holocaust in Jerusalem.&nbsp;Both Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu and PM Narendra Modi's honouring the victims of the Holocaust was to respect, remembrance, and hope for peace and humanity. Yad Vashem is considered Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, situated in Jerusalem. It was established in 1953 and is dedicated to preserving the memory of the six million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II.&nbsp;PM Modi landed in Israel's Tel Aviv at nearly 4:15 pm (IST) on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, for a two-day state visit. This marks Modi’s second visit to Israel as prime minister. Previously, he visited Israel during his first term in 2017.On Wednesday, Modi addressed the Knesset, or the parliament of Israel, on the first day of his two-day visit, where he received a standing ovation after stressing India’s enduring support for Israel. This marks the first time any Indian leader addressed the Knesset.&nbsp;“India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction, in this moment and beyond,” said Modi and condemned the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas as “barbaric”, adding that “no cause can justify the murder of civilians”.<h3>FTA signed between Israel and India</h3>Israel and India on Tuesday began the first round of talks on a proposed free trade agreement, marking a move to strengthen economic ties as New Delhi intensifies efforts to expand market access through partnerships with major technology-focused economies.&nbsp;According to a Bloomberg report citing officials in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is prioritising defence discussions, enhanced cooperation on counter-terrorism, and progress on a free trade pact as key elements of the engagement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-tensions-escalate-as-tokyo-announces-plans-to-deploy-missiles-on-island-near-taiwan-what-s-happening-1772088423074">China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening</a>

Yad Vashem is considered Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, situated in Jerusalem. It was established in 1953 and is dedicated to preserving the memory of the six million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Centre in Jerusalem, along with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his two-day visit to Israel. During the visit, PM Modi paid tribute to the victims of the Holocaust in Jerusalem. Both Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu and PM Narendra Modi's honouring the victims of the Holocaust was to respect, remembrance, and hope for peace and humanity. Yad Vashem is considered Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, situated in Jerusalem. It was established in 1953 and is dedicated to preserving the memory of the six million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II. PM Modi landed in Israel's Tel Aviv at nearly 4:15 pm (IST) on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, for a two-day state visit. This marks Modi’s second visit to Israel as prime minister. Previously, he visited Israel during his first term in 2017. On Wednesday, Modi addressed the Knesset, or the parliament of Israel, on the first day of his two-day visit, where he received a standing ovation after stressing India’s enduring support for Israel. This marks the first time any Indian leader addressed the Knesset. “India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction, in this moment and beyond,” said Modi and condemned the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas as “barbaric”, adding that “no cause can justify the murder of civilians”. FTA signed between Israel and India Israel and India on Tuesday began the first round of talks on a proposed free trade agreement, marking a move to strengthen economic ties as New Delhi intensifies efforts to expand market access through partnerships with major technology-focused economies. According to a Bloomberg report citing officials in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is prioritising defence discussions, enhanced cooperation on counter-terrorism, and progress on a free trade pact as key elements of the engagement. Also read: China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening

Yad Vashem is considered Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, situated in Jerusalem. It was established in 1953 and is dedicated to preserving the memory of the six million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II.

PM Modi, Netanyahu visit Jerusalem memorial Yad Vashem; pay tribute to holocaust victims

Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, has sparked succession rumours after appearing at major state events in matching attire alongside her father. South Korea says she may be groomed as a future leader, but questions remain.

Fashion or political symbol? Kim Jong Un, daughter fuel succession rumours with matching jackets

The China-Japan tensions continue to simmer months after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi spoke in favour of Taiwan. In latest escalation of tensions, China has restricted exports to 40 Japanese entities citing their contributing to Japan's “remilitarization.” The Chinese Commerce Ministry put 20 Japanese companies on an export control list and 20 others on a separate watchlist. Meanwhile, Tokyo issued a formal protest &nbsp;over the step taken by Beijing while it also said that it will deploy missiles to a tiny island near Taiwan within five years. The announcements by China and Japan hints at a possible escalation of tensions in the near future.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-trade-war-in-asia-ignites-as-china-imposes-restrictions-on-japan-over-remilitarisation-1771930000748">After Trump, trade war in Asia ignites as China imposes restrictions on Japan over ‘remilitarisation’</a><h2>China restricts exports to 40 Japanese entities</h2>The restriction imposed by China on Japanese companies means these entities will not be able to import from China dual-use goods, which can be used for civilian and military purposes. Foreign organizations and individuals are also banned from providing dual-use items originating in China to the 20 entities. The list include multiple business subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Fujitsu, among others.The separate watchlist has 20 Japanese companies for which Chinese exporters are required to submit individual export license applications, along with risk assessment reports and written pledges that the dual-use items will not be used by Japan's military. It includes Subaru Corporation, Mitsubishi Materials Corporation and the Institute of Science Tokyo, among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-japan-announce-first-tranche-of-550-bn-investments-under-trade-deal-how-it-helps-us-counter-china-1771384730645">Trump announces first Japan investments under trade deal: How it helps US counter China?</a>&nbsp;The Chinese Commerce Ministry said the measures, aiming to curb Japan's remilitarization and nuclear ambitions, “are entirely legitimate, reasonable, and legal.” It added, “The restrictions will not affect normal economic and trade exchanges between China and Japan, and honest and law-abiding Japanese entities have absolutely nothing to worry about.” Tokyo issued a formal protest and said that such measures will never be tolerated. "This is deplorable indeed. We strongly protest to China and urge them to lift them (the controls). We will take actions accordingly," Kei Sato, Japan's deputy chief Cabinet secretary, said.<h2>Japan to deploy missiles in island near Taiwan</h2>Japan's defence minister Shinjiro Koizumi said that his country will deploy missiles to a tiny island near Taiwan within five years. He added that surface-to-air missiles, which are capable of shooting down aircraft and ballistic missiles, will be located on Yonaguni by March 2031. “It depends on the progress of preparing facilities, but we are planning for fiscal 2030,” Koizumi told reporters. Yonaguni lies 100km from Taiwan and already has an SDF facility.<h2>China-Japan tensions</h2>The tensions between China and Japan was triggered after a remark by Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi in November 2025. On Nov 14, Takaichi was asked by an opposition lawmaker in parliament about “survival-threatening situations.” In response, Takaichi gave an example that an attempt to bring Taiwan completely under the control of China using battleships and military force could constitute such a situation. The term ‘survival-threatening situation’ used by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi refers to a situation where an armed attack on a foreign country closely related to Japan poses a threat to Japan's survival. In such a situation, Japan would militarily help the other nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beijing reacted sharply to Takaichi's remark, and termed it as direct challenge to its sovereignty. In a diplomatic fall-out, Japan returned last two giant pandas to China in early 2026. China reinstated a ban on Japanese seafood imports and issued travel warnings citing safety risks, leading to the cancellation of nearly 500,000 flight bookings. According to a report, Chinese visitors to Japan plummeted 60.7 per cent year-on-year in January 2026. Beijing raised the issue in the UN and demanded Takaichi's apology as well as urged the Japanese government to take back the statement.&nbsp; &nbsp;

China has restricted exports to 40 Japanese entities over “remilitarisation” concerns, escalating tensions triggered by PM Sanae Takaichi’s Taiwan remarks. Japan protested the move and plans missile deployment near Taiwan, deepening geopolitical and trade frictions.

The China-Japan tensions continue to simmer months after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi spoke in favour of Taiwan. In latest escalation of tensions, China has restricted exports to 40 Japanese entities citing their contributing to Japan's “remilitarization.” The Chinese Commerce Ministry put 20 Japanese companies on an export control list and 20 others on a separate watchlist. Meanwhile, Tokyo issued a formal protest over the step taken by Beijing while it also said that it will deploy missiles to a tiny island near Taiwan within five years. The announcements by China and Japan hints at a possible escalation of tensions in the near future. Also Read: After Trump, trade war in Asia ignites as China imposes restrictions on Japan over ‘remilitarisation’ China restricts exports to 40 Japanese entities The restriction imposed by China on Japanese companies means these entities will not be able to import from China dual-use goods, which can be used for civilian and military purposes. Foreign organizations and individuals are also banned from providing dual-use items originating in China to the 20 entities. The list include multiple business subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Fujitsu, among others. The separate watchlist has 20 Japanese companies for which Chinese exporters are required to submit individual export license applications, along with risk assessment reports and written pledges that the dual-use items will not be used by Japan's military. It includes Subaru Corporation, Mitsubishi Materials Corporation and the Institute of Science Tokyo, among others. Also Read: Trump announces first Japan investments under trade deal: How it helps US counter China? The Chinese Commerce Ministry said the measures, aiming to curb Japan's remilitarization and nuclear ambitions, “are entirely legitimate, reasonable, and legal.” It added, “The restrictions will not affect normal economic and trade exchanges between China and Japan, and honest and law-abiding Japanese entities have absolutely nothing to worry about.” Tokyo issued a formal protest and said that such measures will never be tolerated. "This is deplorable indeed. We strongly protest to China and urge them to lift them (the controls). We will take actions accordingly," Kei Sato, Japan's deputy chief Cabinet secretary, said. Japan to deploy missiles in island near Taiwan Japan's defence minister Shinjiro Koizumi said that his country will deploy missiles to a tiny island near Taiwan within five years. He added that surface-to-air missiles, which are capable of shooting down aircraft and ballistic missiles, will be located on Yonaguni by March 2031. “It depends on the progress of preparing facilities, but we are planning for fiscal 2030,” Koizumi told reporters. Yonaguni lies 100km from Taiwan and already has an SDF facility. China-Japan tensions The tensions between China and Japan was triggered after a remark by Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi in November 2025. On Nov 14, Takaichi was asked by an opposition lawmaker in parliament about “survival-threatening situations.” In response, Takaichi gave an example that an attempt to bring Taiwan completely under the control of China using battleships and military force could constitute such a situation. The term ‘survival-threatening situation’ used by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi refers to a situation where an armed attack on a foreign country closely related to Japan poses a threat to Japan's survival. In such a situation, Japan would militarily help the other nation. Beijing reacted sharply to Takaichi's remark, and termed it as direct challenge to its sovereignty. In a diplomatic fall-out, Japan returned last two giant pandas to China in early 2026. China reinstated a ban on Japanese seafood imports and issued travel warnings citing safety risks, leading to the cancellation of nearly 500,000 flight bookings. According to a report, Chinese visitors to Japan plummeted 60.7 per cent year-on-year in January 2026. Beijing raised the issue in the UN and demanded Takaichi's apology as well as urged the Japanese government to take back the statement.

China has restricted exports to 40 Japanese entities over “remilitarisation” concerns, escalating tensions triggered by PM Sanae Takaichi’s Taiwan remarks. Japan protested the move and plans missile deployment near Taiwan, deepening geopolitical and trade frictions.

China-Japan tensions escalate as Tokyo announces plans to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan: What's happening

India is now the new hub of data centres. Companies, both local and foreign (mostly American), are falling over each other to invest in large tracts of land to build data centres crucial to new-age computing, particularly in AI and cloud services. But is this enthusiasm a result of popular resistance to data centres in the US, laxer environmental regulations in India compared to the US, and the availability of cheaper electricity? Negative stories about the environmental impacts of AI data centres have been trickling in from the US for the past few years. The data centres, including availability zones and hyperscalers are fuel guzzlers, noise and air polluters, and affect the quality of water for neighbouring communities, among other concerns. Here is a roundup of the data centre boom in India, contrasted with criticism of these necessary evils of modern technology in the US.<h2>India data centre market boom</h2>India is witnessing a major shift is towards AI-optimised, hyperscale, multi-gigawatt data centre campuses in various cities. This is happening in spite of infrastructure constraints and burdens on the power grid. AI adoption, cloud computing growth, data localisation requirements, and government programmes such as Digital India are driving the data centre boom in India. The current operational capacity is around 1.4 gigawatts. There are 132 existing facilities and 81 upcoming across around 25 locations.Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Bengaluru and Delhi-NCR are the key data centre hubs, with Visakhapatnam and Jamnagar likely to emerge in the near future.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-budget-2026-tax-holiday-for-foreign-data-centre-operators-safe-harbour-margin-for-it-services-to-boost-sector-1769936262227">India Budget 2026: Tax holiday for foreign data centre operators; safe harbour margin for IT services to boost sector</a><h2>Investment in data centres in India is nearing 200 billion US dollars</h2>Adani Group’s AdaniConneX joint venture with EdgeConneX, has made a 100 billion US dollar commitment by 2035. The company is building a 15 billion US dollar AI hub in Visakhapatnam, while 6 billion US dollars will be spent on a hyperscale MoU with Maharashtra.Reliance Industries (mainly via its Jio arm), through a Digital Connexion joint venture with Brookfield and Digital Realty, has pledged nearly 110 billion US dollars for data centres, including one in Jamnagar that is aimed to be the world’s largest by capacity when completed.&nbsp;It is also planning an 11 billion US dollar AI data centre in Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam region.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-behind-the-ai-boom-data-centers-consume-20-lakh-litres-of-water-daily-1769683587156">‘Behind the AI boom’: Data centers consume 20 lakh litres of water daily</a> Global companies include Google parent Alphabet, with a commitment of 15 billion US dollars in data centre investment between 2026 and 2030. This includes the first AI-focused facility in India, a gigawatt-scale hub in Visakhapatnam in a joint venture with AdaniConneX and Airtel.Microsoft is making its largest Asia data centre investment in India, at around 17.5 billion US dollars by 2029. It is planning an “India South Central” hyperscale data centre region in Hyderabad, which would be the largest of its kind in India.Amazon Web Services (AWS) is another player. Data centres are part of Amazon’s 35 billion US dollar India commitment by 2030. Amazon added its third availability zone in the Mumbai region in 2025. It is also building more hyperscale data centres across India.Other foreign and local players in India's data centre boom include Meta, Tata Group, Nxtra by Airtel, CtrlS Datacenters, Yotta Infrastructure, NTT Global, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, Equinix and Sify Technologies.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/big-tech-turns-its-focus-to-india-cloud-giants-expand-india-data-centers-1771582485031/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/big-tech-turns-its-focus-to-india-cloud-giants-expand-india-data-centers-1771582485031/embed</a><h2>Data centres are controversial in the US</h2>Contrast this with reports on data centres affecting health and the environment in the US.A number of studies highlight growing environmental and public health concerns linked to the rapid expansion of data centres during the AI boom. The issues include air pollution, noise, massive water consumption leading to water stress, energy strain, ecosystem disruption and broader community impacts.A report by Community &amp; Environmental Defense Services (CEDS) found that emissions from backup diesel generators of data centres contribute to breathing problems, lung disease and premature deaths. CEDS called on states to require health impact assessments before approving data centre projects. Many states, including Ohio, lack such requirements.In Northern Virginia’s “Data Center Alley”, research from Virginia Commonwealth University found that diesel generator emissions, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, rival or exceed those of nearby power plants. Pollution rose sharply from 2015 to 2023.In Minnesota, reports said that proposed data centre facilities could consume water and energy equivalent to millions of residents while generating constant noise and light pollution.&nbsp;National analysis from the World Resources Institute linked data centres to strains on water supplies and power grids.Authorities in Virginia and New Mexico have responded with restrictions, tax incentive debates and proposed moratoriums amid rising community opposition to these massive data centres.<h2>The ground reality in Georgia, the fastest-growing data centre region in the US</h2>These are echoes of one of the most viral recent stories on data centres. The nonprofit newsroom More Perfect Union, which covers working-class issues and corporate accountability, published a video in March 2025 titled I Live 400 Yards From Mark Zuckerberg’s Massive Data Center. &nbsp;The video documented the economic and environmental impacts of a data centre on the community in rural Georgia, the fastest-growing US state for data centres during the ongoing AI boom.Residents living near Meta’s roughly 2 million square foot facility in Mansfield-Newton County and Blackstone-owned QTS campuses in Fayette County reported various issues, including polluted water filling their pipes.The report cited a couple, Beverly and Jeff Morris, who live about 400 yards from Meta’s data centre site and described severe quality-of-life impacts.Issues include 24/7 noise from data centre operations, intense light pollution that makes nights feel like daytime, and environmental damage from construction.Hundreds of trees, and possibly entire forests, were felled to clear the land for building the data centres.Groundwater and wells were allegedly contaminated by heavy dust and sediment.Some residents reported dry taps, discoloured or tainted water, and sediment clogging their pipes. They also expressed concerns about air quality deteriorating because of construction dust.The report also highlighted rising electricity demand from data centres.In the US, such demand is projected to double or triple nationally. Residential bills have already gone up in Georgia as power rates were hiked by 24 per cent in 2025.Companies receive tax breaks while costs shift to residents, the report said, and it criticised limited corporate accountability.<h2>Has India taken into account environment damage, pollution and electricity burden caused by data centre boom?&nbsp;</h2>In India, such scrutiny is absent on data centre growth, at least for now.&nbsp;There has not been much reporting on whether they have caused any environmental damage or pollution or adversely affected local communities.&nbsp;In the absence of such objective analysis or criticism, data centre activity is likely to increase in India. One has to wait to see the long-term impacts of data centre expansion.

The data centre boom in India is accelerating with billions of dollars in AI and cloud investments. Contrast this with US reports warning of pollution, water stress, rising power demand and community impact caused by fuel-guzzling data centres. Are companies investing in a regulatory vacuum?

India is now the new hub of data centres. Companies, both local and foreign (mostly American), are falling over each other to invest in large tracts of land to build data centres crucial to new-age computing, particularly in AI and cloud services. But is this enthusiasm a result of popular resistance to data centres in the US, laxer environmental regulations in India compared to the US, and the availability of cheaper electricity? Negative stories about the environmental impacts of AI data centres have been trickling in from the US for the past few years. The data centres, including availability zones and hyperscalers are fuel guzzlers, noise and air polluters, and affect the quality of water for neighbouring communities, among other concerns. Here is a roundup of the data centre boom in India, contrasted with criticism of these necessary evils of modern technology in the US. India data centre market boom India is witnessing a major shift is towards AI-optimised, hyperscale, multi-gigawatt data centre campuses in various cities. This is happening in spite of infrastructure constraints and burdens on the power grid. AI adoption, cloud computing growth, data localisation requirements, and government programmes such as Digital India are driving the data centre boom in India. The current operational capacity is around 1.4 gigawatts. There are 132 existing facilities and 81 upcoming across around 25 locations. Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Bengaluru and Delhi-NCR are the key data centre hubs, with Visakhapatnam and Jamnagar likely to emerge in the near future. Also read: India Budget 2026: Tax holiday for foreign data centre operators; safe harbour margin for IT services to boost sector Investment in data centres in India is nearing 200 billion US dollars Adani Group’s AdaniConneX joint venture with EdgeConneX, has made a 100 billion US dollar commitment by 2035. The company is building a 15 billion US dollar AI hub in Visakhapatnam, while 6 billion US dollars will be spent on a hyperscale MoU with Maharashtra. Reliance Industries (mainly via its Jio arm), through a Digital Connexion joint venture with Brookfield and Digital Realty, has pledged nearly 110 billion US dollars for data centres, including one in Jamnagar that is aimed to be the world’s largest by capacity when completed. It is also planning an 11 billion US dollar AI data centre in Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam region. Also read: ‘Behind the AI boom’: Data centers consume 20 lakh litres of water daily Global companies include Google parent Alphabet, with a commitment of 15 billion US dollars in data centre investment between 2026 and 2030. This includes the first AI-focused facility in India, a gigawatt-scale hub in Visakhapatnam in a joint venture with AdaniConneX and Airtel. Microsoft is making its largest Asia data centre investment in India, at around 17.5 billion US dollars by 2029. It is planning an “India South Central” hyperscale data centre region in Hyderabad, which would be the largest of its kind in India. Amazon Web Services (AWS) is another player. Data centres are part of Amazon’s 35 billion US dollar India commitment by 2030. Amazon added its third availability zone in the Mumbai region in 2025. It is also building more hyperscale data centres across India. Other foreign and local players in India's data centre boom include Meta, Tata Group, Nxtra by Airtel, CtrlS Datacenters, Yotta Infrastructure, NTT Global, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, Equinix and Sify Technologies. https://www.wionews.com/videos/big-tech-turns-its-focus-to-india-cloud-giants-expand-india-data-centers-1771582485031/embed Data centres are controversial in the US Contrast this with reports on data centres affecting health and the environment in the US. A number of studies highlight growing environmental and public health concerns linked to the rapid expansion of data centres during the AI boom. The issues include air pollution, noise, massive water consumption leading to water stress, energy strain, ecosystem disruption and broader community impacts. A report by Community & Environmental Defense Services (CEDS) found that emissions from backup diesel generators of data centres contribute to breathing problems, lung disease and premature deaths. CEDS called on states to require health impact assessments before approving data centre projects. Many states, including Ohio, lack such requirements. In Northern Virginia’s “Data Center Alley”, research from Virginia Commonwealth University found that diesel generator emissions, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, rival or exceed those of nearby power plants. Pollution rose sharply from 2015 to 2023. In Minnesota, reports said that proposed data centre facilities could consume water and energy equivalent to millions of residents while generating constant noise and light pollution. National analysis from the World Resources Institute linked data centres to strains on water supplies and power grids. Authorities in Virginia and New Mexico have responded with restrictions, tax incentive debates and proposed moratoriums amid rising community opposition to these massive data centres. The ground reality in Georgia, the fastest-growing data centre region in the US These are echoes of one of the most viral recent stories on data centres. The nonprofit newsroom More Perfect Union, which covers working-class issues and corporate accountability, published a video in March 2025 titled I Live 400 Yards From Mark Zuckerberg’s Massive Data Center. The video documented the economic and environmental impacts of a data centre on the community in rural Georgia, the fastest-growing US state for data centres during the ongoing AI boom. Residents living near Meta’s roughly 2 million square foot facility in Mansfield-Newton County and Blackstone-owned QTS campuses in Fayette County reported various issues, including polluted water filling their pipes. The report cited a couple, Beverly and Jeff Morris, who live about 400 yards from Meta’s data centre site and described severe quality-of-life impacts. Issues include 24/7 noise from data centre operations, intense light pollution that makes nights feel like daytime, and environmental damage from construction. Hundreds of trees, and possibly entire forests, were felled to clear the land for building the data centres. Groundwater and wells were allegedly contaminated by heavy dust and sediment. Some residents reported dry taps, discoloured or tainted water, and sediment clogging their pipes. They also expressed concerns about air quality deteriorating because of construction dust. The report also highlighted rising electricity demand from data centres. In the US, such demand is projected to double or triple nationally. Residential bills have already gone up in Georgia as power rates were hiked by 24 per cent in 2025. Companies receive tax breaks while costs shift to residents, the report said, and it criticised limited corporate accountability. Has India taken into account environment damage, pollution and electricity burden caused by data centre boom? In India, such scrutiny is absent on data centre growth, at least for now. There has not been much reporting on whether they have caused any environmental damage or pollution or adversely affected local communities. In the absence of such objective analysis or criticism, data centre activity is likely to increase in India. One has to wait to see the long-term impacts of data centre expansion.

The data centre boom in India is accelerating with billions of dollars in AI and cloud investments. Contrast this with US reports warning of pollution, water stress, rising power demand and community impact caused by fuel-guzzling data centres. Are companies investing in a regulatory vacuum?

India's data centre boom comes amid environmental questions in the US. What does it mean?

PM Modi crossed over 100 million followers on Instagram, becoming the most-followed leader in the world, marking the first time a politician has accomplished this milestone on social media. Let's have a look at the top 10 political leaders in the world.

PM Modi tops Instagram as world’s most followed leader: Where does Trump rank? Check the top 10 list

A 19-year-old boy has become the first person in South Australia to be prosecuted under new Commonwealth laws designed to combat deepfake pornography. He is accused of creating and distributing images of a teenage girl. A suppression order on revealing his identity was lifted, and the man appeared in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Australia made creating deepfake pornography a federal offence under the new Commonwealth laws in 2024. William Hamish Yeates from South Australia could be imprisoned for seven years for making and sharing deepfake images. He was charged with eight counts of creating or altering sexual material without consent, with each count carrying a maximum prison term of seven years, ABC News reported. The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions confirmed that this was the first such prosecution in the state.&nbsp;The boy is also facing 12 counts of using a carriage service (the internet, social media, or SMS) in a harassing or offensive way. The charge carries a maximum prison term of five years. Defence lawyer Tim McGrath told the court that they were negotiating with the prosecution. "An offer has been put to the [Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions] that acknowledges the conduct alleged in every offence before the court today," he said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-grok-sexually-exploit-victims-ashley-st-clair-mother-of-musk-s-child-sues-xai-over-ai-deepfakes-1768559338808">‘Grok sexually exploits victims’: Ashley St Clair, mother of Musk’s child, sues xAI over AI deepfakes</a><h2>Yeates made the deepfakes and shared them on X</h2>According to court papers, Yeates committed the crime when he was 18. He created the deepfake images of a young girl between February 8 and February 13 last year. The papers state he was "responsible for creating the material". He also "transmitted material" on the social media platform X. He is also accused of using two different X accounts in a manner that was deemed "menacing, harassing or offensive" to the alleged victim. Yeates did so at least 12 times between September 2024 and February 2025. The next hearing of the case is scheduled for April.&nbsp;The Criminal Code Amendment (Deepfake Sexual Material) Act 2024 saw an update to the Commonwealth Criminal Code to specifically add AI-generated material. It includes a penalty of five years for sharing or transmitting deepfake sexual images using the internet, social media, or SMS without the person's consent. Creating and then sharing such images invites a more severe punishment of seven years.

A boy in Australia will be prosecuted for making and sharing deepfake images of a teenage girl. He is the first person to be punished under the new Commonwealth law that makes deepfake pornography a crime punishable with jail.

A 19-year-old boy has become the first person in South Australia to be prosecuted under new Commonwealth laws designed to combat deepfake pornography. He is accused of creating and distributing images of a teenage girl. A suppression order on revealing his identity was lifted, and the man appeared in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Australia made creating deepfake pornography a federal offence under the new Commonwealth laws in 2024. William Hamish Yeates from South Australia could be imprisoned for seven years for making and sharing deepfake images. He was charged with eight counts of creating or altering sexual material without consent, with each count carrying a maximum prison term of seven years, ABC News reported. The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions confirmed that this was the first such prosecution in the state. The boy is also facing 12 counts of using a carriage service (the internet, social media, or SMS) in a harassing or offensive way. The charge carries a maximum prison term of five years. Defence lawyer Tim McGrath told the court that they were negotiating with the prosecution. "An offer has been put to the [Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions] that acknowledges the conduct alleged in every offence before the court today," he said. Also Read: ‘Grok sexually exploits victims’: Ashley St Clair, mother of Musk’s child, sues xAI over AI deepfakes Yeates made the deepfakes and shared them on X According to court papers, Yeates committed the crime when he was 18. He created the deepfake images of a young girl between February 8 and February 13 last year. The papers state he was "responsible for creating the material". He also "transmitted material" on the social media platform X. He is also accused of using two different X accounts in a manner that was deemed "menacing, harassing or offensive" to the alleged victim. Yeates did so at least 12 times between September 2024 and February 2025. The next hearing of the case is scheduled for April. The Criminal Code Amendment (Deepfake Sexual Material) Act 2024 saw an update to the Commonwealth Criminal Code to specifically add AI-generated material. It includes a penalty of five years for sharing or transmitting deepfake sexual images using the internet, social media, or SMS without the person's consent. Creating and then sharing such images invites a more severe punishment of seven years.

A boy in Australia will be prosecuted for making and sharing deepfake images of a teenage girl. He is the first person to be punished under the new Commonwealth law that makes deepfake pornography a crime punishable with jail.

19-year-old Australian faces jail for making and sharing deepfakes of teenage girl

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of Imran Khan has come under criticism from none other than the sisters of Khan itself. The sisters of former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday strongly criticised the party's leadership keeping silent and 'not taking action' regarding Khan's ongoing legal cases.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC), sisters Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noureen Khanum, questioned senior party figures, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Latif Khosa, and Barrister Ali Zafar, for not taking legal proceedings seriously and following it up actively.&nbsp;"Where are Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Latif Khosa and Barrister Ali Zafar? Why are they not pursuing cases?" Aleema asked, according to Geo News.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intimidates-taiwan-with-30-sorties-several-pla-aircraft-cross-median-line-1772086890608">China intimidates Taiwan with 30 sorties, several PLA aircraft cross median line</a>&nbsp;The sisters had arrived at the IHC to seek updates on the multiple cases filed against Imran Khan. Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also reached the court and attempted to meet Chief Justice Sarfaraz Dogar, reported ANI citing Geo news.&nbsp;The 73-year-old cricketer-turned-politician has been in custody since his arrest in August 2023 for &nbsp;multiple cases &nbsp;lodged against him that includes corruption charges. He has, however, denied any wrongdoings and says all the allegations against him are a political vendetta.<h2>Imran Khan receiving medical treatment</h2>&nbsp;Imran Khan's health has also emerged as a matter of concern amid ongoing tensions between the government and the opposition, Geo News reported.&nbsp;According to a report submitted to the Pakistani Supreme Court by his lawyer and the court's amicus curiae, Barrister Salman Safdar, Khan was transferred to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on Monday for ongoing treatment of his diagnosed eye condition.&nbsp;He received a second dose of an anti-VEGF intravitreal injection, the hospital confirmed.With inputs from agencies&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Sisters Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noureen Khanum, questioned senior party figures, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Latif Khosa and Barrister Ali Zafar, for not taking legal proceedings seriously.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of Imran Khan has come under criticism from none other than the sisters of Khan itself. The sisters of former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday strongly criticised the party's leadership keeping silent and 'not taking action' regarding Khan's ongoing legal cases. Speaking to reporters outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC), sisters Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noureen Khanum, questioned senior party figures, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Latif Khosa, and Barrister Ali Zafar, for not taking legal proceedings seriously and following it up actively. "Where are Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Latif Khosa and Barrister Ali Zafar? Why are they not pursuing cases?" Aleema asked, according to Geo News. ALSO READ: China intimidates Taiwan with 30 sorties, several PLA aircraft cross median line The sisters had arrived at the IHC to seek updates on the multiple cases filed against Imran Khan. Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also reached the court and attempted to meet Chief Justice Sarfaraz Dogar, reported ANI citing Geo news. The 73-year-old cricketer-turned-politician has been in custody since his arrest in August 2023 for multiple cases lodged against him that includes corruption charges. He has, however, denied any wrongdoings and says all the allegations against him are a political vendetta. Imran Khan receiving medical treatment Imran Khan's health has also emerged as a matter of concern amid ongoing tensions between the government and the opposition, Geo News reported. According to a report submitted to the Pakistani Supreme Court by his lawyer and the court's amicus curiae, Barrister Salman Safdar, Khan was transferred to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on Monday for ongoing treatment of his diagnosed eye condition. He received a second dose of an anti-VEGF intravitreal injection, the hospital confirmed. With inputs from agencies With inputs from agencies

Sisters Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noureen Khanum, questioned senior party figures, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Latif Khosa and Barrister Ali Zafar, for not taking legal proceedings seriously.

Imran Khan's sisters hit out at senior PTI leadership, allege legal proceeding not being pursued seriously

US President Donald Trump spoke to his Mexican counterpart, Claudia Sheinbaum, after the sensational military operation that led to the death of the leader of the New Generation Jalisco Cartel (CJNG), Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho." The conversation, which lasted for over 8 minutes, was disclosed by Sheinbaum in her routine morning press conference.&nbsp;"It was an eight-minute call to ask me what's happening in Mexico, how things are ... it was a short call to see how things were in Mexico," said Sheinbaum. She told Trump that cooperation between the US and Mexico went smoothly. Both the US and Mexico agreed that there were no US forces on the ground, and the whole operation was carried out by Mexican forces. However, Mexico conceded that intelligence shared from the US was used in finding and confronting the long-elusive "El Mencho".&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-mencho-net-worth-nemesio-oseguera-jalisco-cartel-1771826166286">El Mencho net worth: How rich was Jalisco Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera?</a><h2>Trump takes credit for the “El Mencho” operation&nbsp;</h2>US President Donald Trump, in his State of the Union address on Tuesday evening, took credit for the operations that led to the demise of El Mencho, declaring it a comprehensive US success. "We’ve also taken down one of the most sinister kingpins. You saw that yesterday.” As Trump skipped over the central role of Mexico, no one contradicted his assertion in Congress and responded with loud applause.&nbsp;However, many on Social Media pointed out that 25 Mexican National Guard troops were killed in the ensuing violence from members of the cartel, which is one of the largest single-day casualties in years. Lilly Telez, an opposition Mexican senator, wrote that Sheinbaum did not proceed with “conviction, but because of pressure from a foreign president, Trump.”“We know President Trump…But the information we have given is correct.” Sheinbaum shrugged off Trump's version of the truth.&nbsp;Trump has repeated in his State of the Union address that a large part of Mexico is controlled by a drug cartel. The US had made several attempts to deploy troops in Mexico, which was denied by the Mexican President Sheinbaum, as it would violate the sovereignty of Mexico. However, the Mexican government has severely cracked down on large-scale seizures of illicit drugs and arrests of cartel operatives and sent them for prosecution to the US, which was conveniently skipped by Trump in his speech. &nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the El Mencho operation after an 8-minute call with Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum, who said Mexican forces led the mission.

US President Donald Trump spoke to his Mexican counterpart, Claudia Sheinbaum, after the sensational military operation that led to the death of the leader of the New Generation Jalisco Cartel (CJNG), Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho." The conversation, which lasted for over 8 minutes, was disclosed by Sheinbaum in her routine morning press conference. "It was an eight-minute call to ask me what's happening in Mexico, how things are ... it was a short call to see how things were in Mexico," said Sheinbaum. She told Trump that cooperation between the US and Mexico went smoothly. Both the US and Mexico agreed that there were no US forces on the ground, and the whole operation was carried out by Mexican forces. However, Mexico conceded that intelligence shared from the US was used in finding and confronting the long-elusive "El Mencho". Also Read: El Mencho net worth: How rich was Jalisco Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera? Trump takes credit for the “El Mencho” operation US President Donald Trump, in his State of the Union address on Tuesday evening, took credit for the operations that led to the demise of El Mencho, declaring it a comprehensive US success. "We’ve also taken down one of the most sinister kingpins. You saw that yesterday.” As Trump skipped over the central role of Mexico, no one contradicted his assertion in Congress and responded with loud applause. However, many on Social Media pointed out that 25 Mexican National Guard troops were killed in the ensuing violence from members of the cartel, which is one of the largest single-day casualties in years. Lilly Telez, an opposition Mexican senator, wrote that Sheinbaum did not proceed with “conviction, but because of pressure from a foreign president, Trump.” “We know President Trump…But the information we have given is correct.” Sheinbaum shrugged off Trump's version of the truth. Trump has repeated in his State of the Union address that a large part of Mexico is controlled by a drug cartel. The US had made several attempts to deploy troops in Mexico, which was denied by the Mexican President Sheinbaum, as it would violate the sovereignty of Mexico. However, the Mexican government has severely cracked down on large-scale seizures of illicit drugs and arrests of cartel operatives and sent them for prosecution to the US, which was conveniently skipped by Trump in his speech.

US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the El Mencho operation after an 8-minute call with Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum, who said Mexican forces led the mission.

Trump talks to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum after 'El Mencho' takedown

The US women's Olympic ice hockey team captain has called out US President Donald Trump on a "distasteful joke" he made during a congratulatory call to the US men's Olympic gold medal hockey team. Hilary Knight, the captain of the team which also emerged victorious in the 2026 Winter Olympics, slammed the POTUS for his misogynistic remarks, which she said overshadowed the athletes' achievements at the Milan-Cortina Games.<h2>What did Trump say about the US Women's hockey team?</h2>In a video widely shared online video, Trump can be heard on speakerphone congratulating the men's ice hockey team for their gold medal victory over Canada. During the call, the POTUS invited the team to the State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 24), offering to send a "military plane" to pick them up. He then proceeded to comment that he would also have to ask the triumphant women's team or risk being "impeached."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>"I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that. I do believe I’d probably would be impeached [if they weren't invited]," he said. His comment prompted laughing from the men's team, which, after widespread condemnation, was forced to apologise for their reaction.Watch the video here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> 🇺🇸 Trump invites USA men&#39;s and women&#39;s ice hockey teams to his State of the Union address after congratulating the men&#39;s team. <a href="https://t.co/F4D6QD0h2b">https://t.co/F4D6QD0h2b</a> <a href="https://t.co/0t6ZcSchcd">pic.twitter.com/0t6ZcSchcd</a>&mdash; Nucleus Prime (@nucleusprime) <a href="https://twitter.com/nucleusprime/status/2025801866014302344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The team's reaction prompted netizens to flood the USA Hockey's recent Instagram post congratulating the men's team with comments about the women's team. "So as I was saying ... we are soooo proud of the WOMEN’s hockey team for winning gold," wrote one person. This comment, at the time this report was published, already had 35,902 likes."Canada may have lost the game but USA men’s team lost our respect!," said another. "Every woman and girl who has ever been excluded or laughed at for being an athlete felt that phone call and laughter in her bones," commented a third user.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260226/image-1772091518715.png"></figure><h2>Gold Medalist US Women's ice hockey team reacts to Trump's comment</h2>Knight, a five-time Olympic medallist, and the captain of the Olympic Gold winning team, said "I thought it was sort of a distasteful joke".Speaking to ESPN's "Sportscenter", she noted that "unfortunately" the POTUS' comment was "overshadowing a lot of the success, the success of just women at the Olympics carrying for Team USA and having amazing gold medal feats."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-announce-a-third-term-run-in-his-2026-state-of-the-union-address-here-s-the-truth-1771992729165">Did Trump announce a 'third term' in his 2026 State of the Union address? Here’s the truth</a>She also commented on the widespread anger over the men's team's reaction and said, "I think the guys were in a tough spot, so I think it's a shame this storyline and narrative has kind of blown up and (is) overshadowing that connection and genuine interest in one another and cheering each other on."Reports suggest that Trump had invited both the women's and the men's team as his guest at the State of the Union address. However, the women's team had to decline owing to prior commitments.

"Joke” by Donald Trump sparks backlash from Team USA: Olympic gold medallist Hilary Knight says POTUS's remark overshadowed the women’s team’s victory at the 2026 Games.

What exactly was said and why did it cause outrage? Scroll down to read more.

The US women's Olympic ice hockey team captain has called out US President Donald Trump on a "distasteful joke" he made during a congratulatory call to the US men's Olympic gold medal hockey team. Hilary Knight, the captain of the team which also emerged victorious in the 2026 Winter Olympics, slammed the POTUS for his misogynistic remarks, which she said overshadowed the athletes' achievements at the Milan-Cortina Games. What did Trump say about the US Women's hockey team? In a video widely shared online video, Trump can be heard on speakerphone congratulating the men's ice hockey team for their gold medal victory over Canada. During the call, the POTUS invited the team to the State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 24), offering to send a "military plane" to pick them up. He then proceeded to comment that he would also have to ask the triumphant women's team or risk being "impeached." Also read | Claim vs fact: Breaking down Trump’s State of the Union 2026 speech - Full fact-check "I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that. I do believe I’d probably would be impeached [if they weren't invited]," he said. His comment prompted laughing from the men's team, which, after widespread condemnation, was forced to apologise for their reaction. Watch the video here:

"Joke” by Donald Trump sparks backlash from Team USA: Olympic gold medallist Hilary Knight says POTUS's remark overshadowed the women’s team’s victory at the 2026 Games.What exactly was said and why did it cause outrage? Scroll down to read more.

US women’s hockey captain slams Trump as ‘distasteful joke’ overshadows women’s Olympic gold

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (Feb 25) announced that the Trump administration would “temporarily halt” nearly $260 million in Medicaid funding to Minnesota. This comes after US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union addressed declared a “war on fraud”, singling out Democratic-led states, including California, Maine and Massachusetts, and accusing Minnesota and its Somali community of $19 billion in fraud, without providing any evidence for his claims.“We have decided to temporarily halt certain amounts of Medicaid funding that are going to the state of Minnesota in order to ensure that the state of Minnesota takes its obligation seriously to be good stewards of the American people’s tax money,” Vance said at a press conference in Washington.“What we’re doing is we are stopping the federal payments that will go to the state government until the state government takes its obligations seriously to stop the fraud that’s being perpetrated against the American taxpayer,” he added.<h2>Trump administration warns other states</h2>Administrator of the Centres for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Mehmet Oz, who accompanied Vance, said that the Trump administration has notified Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz of the funding pause for the state, which received a $259 million Medicaid reimbursement this month.“We will give them the money, but we’re going to hold it and only release it after they propose an act on a comprehensive corrective action plan to solve the problem,” Oz said. “If Minnesota fails to clean up the systems, the state will rack up a billion dollars of deferred payments this year.”This comes after the Trump administration sent thousands of federal agents to Minneapolis, which led to widespread protests and the death of two US citizens. The government later announced that it was withdrawing federal officials after massive outrage following the killings.“It’s unponderable that you would take advantage of these precious programs,” Oz said as he warned that other states would be next after Minnesota.Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or low-cost health insurance to over 70 million people, including children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with disabilities in the United States.<h2>Tim Walz slam Trump administration</h2>The Trump administration’s move was slammed by Walz, who said that the funding pause “has nothing to do with fraud.” He added, “The agents Trump allegedly sent to investigate fraud are shooting protesters and arresting children. His DOJ is gutting the U.S. Attorney’s Office and crippling their ability to prosecute fraud. And every week Trump pardons another fraudster.”

US Vice President JD Vance announced a temporary halt to $259 million in Medicaid funds to Minnesota over alleged fraud, as Governor Tim Walz accused the Trump administration of politicising the move.

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (Feb 25) announced that the Trump administration would “temporarily halt” nearly $260 million in Medicaid funding to Minnesota. This comes after US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union addressed declared a “war on fraud”, singling out Democratic-led states, including California, Maine and Massachusetts, and accusing Minnesota and its Somali community of $19 billion in fraud, without providing any evidence for his claims. “We have decided to temporarily halt certain amounts of Medicaid funding that are going to the state of Minnesota in order to ensure that the state of Minnesota takes its obligation seriously to be good stewards of the American people’s tax money,” Vance said at a press conference in Washington. “What we’re doing is we are stopping the federal payments that will go to the state government until the state government takes its obligations seriously to stop the fraud that’s being perpetrated against the American taxpayer,” he added. Trump administration warns other states Administrator of the Centres for Medicare & Medicaid Mehmet Oz, who accompanied Vance, said that the Trump administration has notified Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz of the funding pause for the state, which received a $259 million Medicaid reimbursement this month. “We will give them the money, but we’re going to hold it and only release it after they propose an act on a comprehensive corrective action plan to solve the problem,” Oz said. “If Minnesota fails to clean up the systems, the state will rack up a billion dollars of deferred payments this year.” This comes after the Trump administration sent thousands of federal agents to Minneapolis, which led to widespread protests and the death of two US citizens. The government later announced that it was withdrawing federal officials after massive outrage following the killings. “It’s unponderable that you would take advantage of these precious programs,” Oz said as he warned that other states would be next after Minnesota. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or low-cost health insurance to over 70 million people, including children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with disabilities in the United States. Tim Walz slam Trump administration The Trump administration’s move was slammed by Walz, who said that the funding pause “has nothing to do with fraud.” He added, “The agents Trump allegedly sent to investigate fraud are shooting protesters and arresting children. His DOJ is gutting the U.S. Attorney’s Office and crippling their ability to prosecute fraud. And every week Trump pardons another fraudster.”

US Vice President JD Vance announced a temporary halt to $259 million in Medicaid funds to Minnesota over alleged fraud, as Governor Tim Walz accused the Trump administration of politicising the move.

Vance announces Trump’s ‘war on fraud’ in Minnesota, pauses nearly $260 million Medicaid funding

In a big decision, a US federal judge ruled on Wednesday (Feb 25) that the Trump administration policy of deporting undocumented immigrants to countries that are not their own is “unlawful.” District Judge Brian Murphy announced the verdict on "third-country deportations" but put his ruling on hold for 15 days to allow the government to file an appeal. Notably, the district judge Murphy is an appointee of Democratic president Joe Biden, previously sought to block the deportation of a group of migrants to war-torn South Sudan but was overruled by the conservative-dominated Supreme Court. It must also be noted that in June 2025, the Supreme Court had temporarily allowed these deportations even as legal proceedings were ongoing in lower courts.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-defends-his-top-general-tensions-over-iran-building-up-1772009953093/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-defends-his-top-general-tensions-over-iran-building-up-1772009953093/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump, during his campaign for US presidential elections had promised to take action against undocumented immigrants. After coming to power, his administration has also targeted those immigrants who were granted protection from being sent to their home countries due to fears of persecution. The US has reportedly reached agreements with nearly a dozen nations to accept deportees. Moreover, the US has also paid approximately $32 million to five countries namely El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, Eswatini, and Palau to accept roughly 300 deportees.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sotu-2026-record-speech-omits-china-1772024620902">Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address skips China, first time since 2005</a><h2>What is the judgement?</h2>In the judgement, Murphy noted, "This case is about whether the Government may, without notice, deport a person to the wrong country, or a country where he is likely to be persecuted, or tortured. The Department of Homeland Security has said it is "fine" to deport a migrant to a third country so long as DHS knows they will not be shot on arrival. It is not fine, nor is it legal." The judge also highlighted the concern that these people when deported to countries where they lived would be in danger or they could be subjected to torture. Murphy asked how a person is being deported only on the basis of &nbsp;“'assurances” that no persecution or torture will happen when they arrive.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-keeps-world-guessing-on-iran-plans-ukraine-negotiations-1772074345168">Trump keeps world guessing on Iran plans, Ukraine negotiations</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

A US judge ruled Trump-era third-country deportations unlawful, citing due process concerns. Judge Brian Murphy said migrants cannot be sent to unfamiliar or dangerous countries without notice. The ruling is on hold for 15 days to allow the government to appeal.

In a big decision, a US federal judge ruled on Wednesday (Feb 25) that the Trump administration policy of deporting undocumented immigrants to countries that are not their own is “unlawful.” District Judge Brian Murphy announced the verdict on "third-country deportations" but put his ruling on hold for 15 days to allow the government to file an appeal. Notably, the district judge Murphy is an appointee of Democratic president Joe Biden, previously sought to block the deportation of a group of migrants to war-torn South Sudan but was overruled by the conservative-dominated Supreme Court. It must also be noted that in June 2025, the Supreme Court had temporarily allowed these deportations even as legal proceedings were ongoing in lower courts. https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-defends-his-top-general-tensions-over-iran-building-up-1772009953093/embed Trump, during his campaign for US presidential elections had promised to take action against undocumented immigrants. After coming to power, his administration has also targeted those immigrants who were granted protection from being sent to their home countries due to fears of persecution. The US has reportedly reached agreements with nearly a dozen nations to accept deportees. Moreover, the US has also paid approximately $32 million to five countries namely El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, Eswatini, and Palau to accept roughly 300 deportees. Also Read: Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address skips China, first time since 2005 What is the judgement? In the judgement, Murphy noted, "This case is about whether the Government may, without notice, deport a person to the wrong country, or a country where he is likely to be persecuted, or tortured. The Department of Homeland Security has said it is "fine" to deport a migrant to a third country so long as DHS knows they will not be shot on arrival. It is not fine, nor is it legal." The judge also highlighted the concern that these people when deported to countries where they lived would be in danger or they could be subjected to torture. Murphy asked how a person is being deported only on the basis of “'assurances” that no persecution or torture will happen when they arrive. Also Read: Trump keeps world guessing on Iran plans, Ukraine negotiations

A US judge ruled Trump-era third-country deportations unlawful, citing due process concerns. Judge Brian Murphy said migrants cannot be sent to unfamiliar or dangerous countries without notice. The ruling is on hold for 15 days to allow the government to appeal.

US judge rules Trump's 'third country' deportations 'not legal' but pauses order for 15 days: What's happening

The US Central Intelligence Agency has issued a Farsi language recruitment post on social media platforms X, Instagram, and YouTube on Tuesday, urging Iranian to offer civilian and military intelligence. This is the latest in a series of posts made in several languages, ranging from Farsi, Korean, Russian and Mandarin, to recruit individuals from Iran, Korea, Russia and China and offering secure ways to contact the CIA.This comes amid US President Donald Trump's mulling over an attack on Iran if the US-Iran talks on Thursday fail to reach a deal. The US has already assembled its largest military force across Europe and the Mediterranean. In his first State of the Union speech on Tuesday, February 24, Trump said he would not allow Iran, the biggest sponsor of terror in the world, to possess nuclear weapons.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sotu-2026-record-speech-omits-china-1772024620902">Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address skips China, first time since 2005</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">سلام. سازمان اطلاعات مرکزی (CIA) صدای شما را می‌شنود و می‌خواهد به شما کمک کند. در ادامه، راهنمایی لازم در مورد چگونگی برقراری تماس مجازی امن با ما ارائه شده است. <a href="https://t.co/Dfq4zomz1n">pic.twitter.com/Dfq4zomz1n</a>&mdash; CIA (@CIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/CIA/status/2026315891055436079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The message from the CIA reads, “Hello. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) can hear your voice and wants to help you. Below is the necessary guidance on how to securely contact us virtually.”&nbsp;The post accompanies a video detailing a few steps, such as using a disposable device, a VPN to circumvent internet restrictions, using private web browsers, and deleting their internet history to cover their tracks. It also advised that users should use a trusted Virtual Private Network "not headquartered in Russia, Iran or China," or the Tor Network, which encrypts data and hides the user's IP address. Users who contact the agency were asked to share their locations, names, job titles and "access to information or skills of interest to our agency." &nbsp;The post on X has been viewed 3.4 million times, as of Wednesday morning.However, the agency has not shared details about the new tips or sources that resulted from earlier recruitment videos. Director Ratcliffe suggests that the posts are having an impact. But from outside, it appears the intelligence agency is out of its depth and running a digital campaign for intelligence. This leaves them vulnerable to being entangled in counter-intelligence traps. Since the US has no embassy in Iran, it doesn't have the diplomatic cover for vetting sources in person. It has to rely on local sources such as the Kurdish organisation, as they are the most critical partner for human intelligence. Iran has started to monitor the US-Kurdish relations, and its agency is making it difficult for the CIA to have ground sources to stir up the unrest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The CIA releases a Farsi-language recruitment video urging Iranians to share intelligence online as President Donald Trump weighs action if US-Iran talks fail.

The US Central Intelligence Agency has issued a Farsi language recruitment post on social media platforms X, Instagram, and YouTube on Tuesday, urging Iranian to offer civilian and military intelligence. This is the latest in a series of posts made in several languages, ranging from Farsi, Korean, Russian and Mandarin, to recruit individuals from Iran, Korea, Russia and China and offering secure ways to contact the CIA. This comes amid US President Donald Trump's mulling over an attack on Iran if the US-Iran talks on Thursday fail to reach a deal. The US has already assembled its largest military force across Europe and the Mediterranean. In his first State of the Union speech on Tuesday, February 24, Trump said he would not allow Iran, the biggest sponsor of terror in the world, to possess nuclear weapons. Also Read: Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address skips China, first time since 2005

The CIA releases a Farsi-language recruitment video urging Iranians to share intelligence online as President Donald Trump weighs action if US-Iran talks fail.

CIA posts Farsi video urging Iranians to share intelligence online

Green Party activists have gotten attention for pushing their campaign in Urdu, targetting Muslim voters in the Gorton and Denton by-election. Hannah Spencer, the Green hopeful, is seen in videos speaking in Urdu and visiting local businesses in Greater Manchester’s constituency as she attacks the Reform and Labour party rivals. The polling is set to take place on Thursday (Feb 26).In the campaign leaflets, which are written in both English and Urdu, Spencer is seen wearing a red and black keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern scarf often worn to show support for Palestinians, over her shoulders as she poses in front of a mosque.“Push the falling walls one more time. Labour must be punished for Gaza. Reform must be defeated and Green must be voted for. Vote for the Green Party for a strong voice for Muslims,” the party’s pamphlet in Urdu read.It adds in English: “Stop Islamophobia. Stop Reform.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Manchester Gorton &amp; Denton by-election Green Party message in Urdu for residents. Vote Hannah Spencer. Vote Green 💚Thursday 26th February. Polls open 7am to 10pm. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/votegreen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#votegreen</a> <a href="https://t.co/5O3T030ga9">pic.twitter.com/5O3T030ga9</a>&mdash; Muslim Greens (@muslim_greens) <a href="https://twitter.com/muslim_greens/status/2025935687984312697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Looks like Greens have gone from hugging trees to hugging Muslim sectarian voters. Election leaflet all written in urdu. Gaza is mentioned (but of course) Mentions punishing Labour. Talks about not voting for Reform. Lastly says Greens will be a solid voice for Muslims. <a href="https://t.co/vJ3FhjVx2t">pic.twitter.com/vJ3FhjVx2t</a>&mdash; Nadeem Shafqat (@Nadeem83Shafqat) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nadeem83Shafqat/status/2022711438993743999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

More than a quarter of Gorton and Denton’s 76,000 potential voters are of Muslim heritage, while 19.2 per cent of those are believed to have Pakistani roots. The use of Urdu, the national language of Pakistan and an official language in India, is aimed at gaining the support of the Muslim voters in the constituency.The video released by the Green Party in Urdu also included an image of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer shaking hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among other world leaders.The Telegraph reported that leaked text messages from the Gorton and Denton Green campaigns revealed party activists were planning to target Muslims “outside mosques” during Ramzan.“This is also the final Friday of the campaign, which means it’s the final Jummah (Friday prayers),” the message reads. “It’s also Ramadan, which makes our efforts today to leaflet outside mosques and reach out to the Muslim community even more important.”The Green Party also released a campaign video in Bangla after being slammed by the right wing for their campaign video in Urdu.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The right wing trolls hated seeing our campaign video in Urdu. So here it is in Bangla instead. I love our party! 💚🙌🏼 <a href="https://t.co/contmwgRqq">https://t.co/contmwgRqq</a>&mdash; Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2026379133555441982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Green Party activists in Gorton and Denton ran an Urdu-language campaign targeting Muslim voters, criticising Labour and Reform over Gaza.

Green Party activists have gotten attention for pushing their campaign in Urdu, targetting Muslim voters in the Gorton and Denton by-election. Hannah Spencer, the Green hopeful, is seen in videos speaking in Urdu and visiting local businesses in Greater Manchester’s constituency as she attacks the Reform and Labour party rivals. The polling is set to take place on Thursday (Feb 26). In the campaign leaflets, which are written in both English and Urdu, Spencer is seen wearing a red and black keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern scarf often worn to show support for Palestinians, over her shoulders as she poses in front of a mosque. “Push the falling walls one more time. Labour must be punished for Gaza. Reform must be defeated and Green must be voted for. Vote for the Green Party for a strong voice for Muslims,” the party’s pamphlet in Urdu read. It adds in English: “Stop Islamophobia. Stop Reform.”

Green Party activists in Gorton and Denton ran an Urdu-language campaign targeting Muslim voters, criticising Labour and Reform over Gaza.

Why is UK’s Green Party using Urdu in campaign video, leaflets? What we know

China again tried to intimidate Taiwan with numerous sorties around its territory up until 6 a.m. (local time) today. According to Ministry of Defence of Taiwan 30 sorties were detected of People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and 6 People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels. Out of the total sorties detected 22 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central and southwestern ADIZ.&nbsp;After the incident, the Taiwanese Defence Ministry took to X to write, "30 sorties of PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 22 out of 30 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded."<h2>Earlier incident of air breach by PLA</h2>&nbsp;This comes just after the Taiwanese defence detected 28 sorties on Wednesday, out of which 22 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered the northern, central and southwestern ADIZ. The sorties constituted aircraft like J-10, J-16 and KJ-500.&nbsp;The breach invited sharp criticism from Japan that has objected to China considering Taiwan as its own territory.&nbsp;Tokyo and Beijing have a historically acrimonious relationship, but it turned worse when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told legislators that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, which could necessitate military action.&nbsp;

This is second incident of breach by Peoples Liberation Army in a matter of two days of Taiwans air space as claimed by the defence ministry of Taiwan.

China again tried to intimidate Taiwan with numerous sorties around its territory up until 6 a.m. (local time) today. According to Ministry of Defence of Taiwan 30 sorties were detected of People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and 6 People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels. Out of the total sorties detected 22 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central and southwestern ADIZ. After the incident, the Taiwanese Defence Ministry took to X to write, "30 sorties of PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 22 out of 30 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded." Earlier incident of air breach by PLA This comes just after the Taiwanese defence detected 28 sorties on Wednesday, out of which 22 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered the northern, central and southwestern ADIZ. The sorties constituted aircraft like J-10, J-16 and KJ-500. The breach invited sharp criticism from Japan that has objected to China considering Taiwan as its own territory. Tokyo and Beijing have a historically acrimonious relationship, but it turned worse when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told legislators that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, which could necessitate military action.

This is second incident of breach by People's Liberation Army in a matter of two days of Taiwan's air space as claimed by the defence ministry of Taiwan.

China intimidates Taiwan with 30 sorties, several PLA aircraft cross median line

China critic, Hong Kong pro democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, on Thursday (Feb 26) won an appeal in a fraud case days after a court jailed him for 20 years on national security charges.<h2>Lai's surprise win</h2>Lai has won the appeal in a fraud case that stemmed from a contractual dispute and is not related to the charges he faces under the national security law. "(We) allow the appeals, quash the convictions and set aside the sentences," said High Court Chief Judge Jeremy Poon, announcing his ruling. The judge also revealed that Lai, who is currently in jail, has been granted permission to not attend court in person.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-lai-s-son-sebastien-lai-asks-trump-to-tell-xi-the-prison-sentence-is-a-mistake-warns-if-he-dies-1770685339030">Jimmy Lai’s son Sebastien Lai asks Trump to tell Xi the prison sentence is a ‘mistake,’ warns ‘if he dies...’</a>The surprise win comes on the heels of a two-decade-long prison sentence on collusion charges under a stringent Beijing-imposed national security law. The prosecutors in the fraud case alleged that a consultancy firm operated by Lai for his personal use had taken up office space, which was originally rented by Apple Daily for the purposes of printing and publication. This was found to be in breach of the terms of the lease signed by Lai's Apple Daily with a government agency and thus amounted to fraud, alleged the prosecutors.However, on Thursday, the judge ruled that "prosecution has failed to prove that the applicants had made the false representation as alleged".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-sentences-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-to-20-years-in-prison-what-was-the-case-against-him-1770604509612">Hong Kong sentences media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison</a>Along with Lai, Wong Wai-Keung, a former executive at Apple Daily, was also charged in the fraud case. He was jailed for 21 months in 2022. Now, his conviction and sentence have also been quashed.In 2022, the media tycoon, behind the now-defunct Apple Daily, received a jail sentence of five years and nine months over what the trial judge, as per AFP, said was a "planned, organised and years-long" scheme. Two of these years were set to overlap with Lai's 20-year sentence in the national security case.&nbsp;

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has won an appeal in a fraud case, with the High Court quashing his conviction and sentence. The ruling comes just days after he was jailed for 20 years under the national security law on separate collusion charges.

China critic, Hong Kong pro democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, on Thursday (Feb 26) won an appeal in a fraud case days after a court jailed him for 20 years on national security charges. Lai's surprise win Lai has won the appeal in a fraud case that stemmed from a contractual dispute and is not related to the charges he faces under the national security law. "(We) allow the appeals, quash the convictions and set aside the sentences," said High Court Chief Judge Jeremy Poon, announcing his ruling. The judge also revealed that Lai, who is currently in jail, has been granted permission to not attend court in person. Also read | Jimmy Lai’s son Sebastien Lai asks Trump to tell Xi the prison sentence is a ‘mistake,’ warns ‘if he dies...’ The surprise win comes on the heels of a two-decade-long prison sentence on collusion charges under a stringent Beijing-imposed national security law. The prosecutors in the fraud case alleged that a consultancy firm operated by Lai for his personal use had taken up office space, which was originally rented by Apple Daily for the purposes of printing and publication. This was found to be in breach of the terms of the lease signed by Lai's Apple Daily with a government agency and thus amounted to fraud, alleged the prosecutors. However, on Thursday, the judge ruled that "prosecution has failed to prove that the applicants had made the false representation as alleged". Also read | Hong Kong sentences media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison Along with Lai, Wong Wai-Keung, a former executive at Apple Daily, was also charged in the fraud case. He was jailed for 21 months in 2022. Now, his conviction and sentence have also been quashed. In 2022, the media tycoon, behind the now-defunct Apple Daily, received a jail sentence of five years and nine months over what the trial judge, as per AFP, said was a "planned, organised and years-long" scheme. Two of these years were set to overlap with Lai's 20-year sentence in the national security case.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has won an appeal in a fraud case, with the High Court quashing his conviction and sentence. The ruling comes just days after he was jailed for 20 years under the national security law on separate collusion charges.

Jimmy Lai wins fraud appeal days after 20 year jail sentence

Ahead of US-Iran talks in Geneva, Vice President JD Vance has said that the United States has seen evidence that Iran is trying to rebuild its nuclear program after US-led strikes against Iranian nuclear sites in June. Reiterating Trump's stance, Vance said that they want Iran to not have nuclear weapon. Additionally, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Iran's insistence on not discussing ballistic missiles is a “big, big problem.” The statements by Trump's team comes a day after the US president delivered his State of Union speech and warned Iran. Trump special envoys &nbsp;Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will hold negotiations with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and team on Thursday (Feb 26).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-rubio-says-iran-poses-grave-threat-to-america-1772077478807/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-rubio-says-iran-poses-grave-threat-to-america-1772077478807/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“The principle is very simple: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Vance told reporters, adding, "If they try to rebuild a nuclear weapon, that causes problems for us. In fact, we’ve seen evidence that they have tried to do exactly that.” Vance also insisted that the POTUS wants to address the issue “diplomatically, but of course the president has other options as well.” Earlier, while speaking to Fox News, Vance said, “You can't let the craziest and worst regime in the world have nuclear weapons.” Taking forward Trump's claims that Iran is developing missile that can hit the US, Rubio said that the Islamic Republic must negotiate on its missile program as well. “I would say that the Iranian insistence on not discussing ballistic missiles is a big, big problem."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-big-warning-to-iran-in-his-sotu-speech-sparks-regime-change-fears-as-he-mentions-qasem-soleimani-op-midnight-hammer-iran-us-nuclear-talks-1771990979129">'Terrible people...': Trump issues BIG warning to Iran in SOTU speech, sparks regime change fears — What he said</a><h2>Trump warns Iran in SOTU speech</h2>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;&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.&nbsp;

Ahead of US-Iran talks in Geneva, JD Vance claimed Iran is trying to rebuild its nuclear program after US strikes, while Marco Rubio warned Tehran must discuss ballistic missiles. Trump reiterated Iran cannot have nuclear weapons, as both sides prepare for high-stakes negotiations.

Ahead of US-Iran talks in Geneva, Vice President JD Vance has said that the United States has seen evidence that Iran is trying to rebuild its nuclear program after US-led strikes against Iranian nuclear sites in June. Reiterating Trump's stance, Vance said that they want Iran to not have nuclear weapon. Additionally, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Iran's insistence on not discussing ballistic missiles is a “big, big problem.” The statements by Trump's team comes a day after the US president delivered his State of Union speech and warned Iran. Trump special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will hold negotiations with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and team on Thursday (Feb 26). https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-rubio-says-iran-poses-grave-threat-to-america-1772077478807/embed “The principle is very simple: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Vance told reporters, adding, "If they try to rebuild a nuclear weapon, that causes problems for us. In fact, we’ve seen evidence that they have tried to do exactly that.” Vance also insisted that the POTUS wants to address the issue “diplomatically, but of course the president has other options as well.” Earlier, while speaking to Fox News, Vance said, “You can't let the craziest and worst regime in the world have nuclear weapons.” Taking forward Trump's claims that Iran is developing missile that can hit the US, Rubio said that the Islamic Republic must negotiate on its missile program as well. “I would say that the Iranian insistence on not discussing ballistic missiles is a big, big problem." Also Read: 'Terrible people...': Trump issues BIG warning to Iran in SOTU speech, sparks regime change fears — What he said Trump warns Iran in SOTU speech 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. Also Read: US-Iran tensions: Trump targets Iran's shadow fleet, sanctions aimed Iran's ballistic missiles How Iran reacted? 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.

Ahead of US-Iran talks in Geneva, JD Vance claimed Iran is trying to rebuild its nuclear program after US strikes, while Marco Rubio warned Tehran must discuss ballistic missiles. Trump reiterated Iran cannot have nuclear weapons, as both sides prepare for high-stakes negotiations.

'US has seen evidence...': Vance warns Iran ahead of Geneva meet, Rubio flags missile 'problem' — Will nuclear talks fail?

A former US Air Force fighter pilot, who served as an instructor for service members, was arrested on Wednesday (Feb 25) for allegedly training Chinese military personnel without authorisation, the Department of Justice announced. Gerald Eddie Brown, Jr., also known by the call sign “Runner”, was apprehended by the authorities in Jeffersonville, Indiana.The 65-year-old US citizen was charged “for providing and conspiring to provide defence services to Chinese military pilots without authorisation,” which is in violation of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA).He is expected to appear before a Magistrate Judge in Indiana on Thursday (Feb 26).“The United States Air Force trained Major Brown to be an elite fighter pilot and entrusted him with the defense of our Nation. He now stands charged with training Chinese military pilots,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg.“As an Air Force Officer, Brown took an oath to defend our Nation against all enemies foreign and domestic, he broke that oath and betrayed the country, jeopardising the safety of our servicemembers and allies,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia.&nbsp;It is illegal for US citizens – military or civilian – to provide training to a foreign military without having a license from the State Department. Eisenberg added, “The National Security Division will use all tools at its disposal to protect our military advantages and hold to account those who would violate the AECA.”“The Chinese government continues to exploit the expertise of current and former members of the US armed forces to modernise China's military capabilities,” said Roman Rozhavsky, an official with the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “This arrest serves as a warning that the FBI and our partners will stop at nothing to hold accountable anyone who collaborates with our adversaries to harm our service members and jeopardize our national security.”<h2>Who is Gerald Brown?</h2>Gerald Brown is a former F-35 Lightning II instructor pilot and served for over 24 years in the US Air Force. He left active duty in 1996 as a Major. During his career, he commanded sensitive units that oversaw nuclear weapons delivery systems and led combat missions. He served as a fighter pilot instructor and simulator instructor on a variety of fighter and attack aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II (Warthog), according to the DOJ.After leaving the military, he was working as a commercial cargo pilot, and recently as a contract simulator instructor for two different US defence contractors who train US military pilots on flying the A-10 and the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.

A former US Air Force pilot and F-35 instructor, Gerald “Runner” Brown, was arrested in Indiana for allegedly training Chinese military pilots without US approval, violating arms export laws.

A former US Air Force fighter pilot, who served as an instructor for service members, was arrested on Wednesday (Feb 25) for allegedly training Chinese military personnel without authorisation, the Department of Justice announced. Gerald Eddie Brown, Jr., also known by the call sign “Runner”, was apprehended by the authorities in Jeffersonville, Indiana. The 65-year-old US citizen was charged “for providing and conspiring to provide defence services to Chinese military pilots without authorisation,” which is in violation of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA). He is expected to appear before a Magistrate Judge in Indiana on Thursday (Feb 26). “The United States Air Force trained Major Brown to be an elite fighter pilot and entrusted him with the defense of our Nation. He now stands charged with training Chinese military pilots,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “As an Air Force Officer, Brown took an oath to defend our Nation against all enemies foreign and domestic, he broke that oath and betrayed the country, jeopardising the safety of our servicemembers and allies,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. It is illegal for US citizens – military or civilian – to provide training to a foreign military without having a license from the State Department. Eisenberg added, “The National Security Division will use all tools at its disposal to protect our military advantages and hold to account those who would violate the AECA.” “The Chinese government continues to exploit the expertise of current and former members of the US armed forces to modernise China's military capabilities,” said Roman Rozhavsky, an official with the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “This arrest serves as a warning that the FBI and our partners will stop at nothing to hold accountable anyone who collaborates with our adversaries to harm our service members and jeopardize our national security.” Who is Gerald Brown? Gerald Brown is a former F-35 Lightning II instructor pilot and served for over 24 years in the US Air Force. He left active duty in 1996 as a Major. During his career, he commanded sensitive units that oversaw nuclear weapons delivery systems and led combat missions. He served as a fighter pilot instructor and simulator instructor on a variety of fighter and attack aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II (Warthog), according to the DOJ. After leaving the military, he was working as a commercial cargo pilot, and recently as a contract simulator instructor for two different US defence contractors who train US military pilots on flying the A-10 and the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.

A former US Air Force pilot and F-35 instructor, Gerald “Runner” Brown, was arrested in Indiana for allegedly training Chinese military pilots without US approval, violating arms export laws.

‘Elite’ ex-fighter pilot arrested for ‘betraying’ US, training Chinese military

In a significant policy shift ahead of Canadian PM Mark Carney's visit to India, Canada has said that it believes New Delhi is no longer linked to violent crimes in Canada. According to Canadian English daily Toronto Star, the statement came during a briefing with journalists ahead of Carney's trip. According to the report, the statement suggests that Canadian authorities do not see ongoing foreign interference or violent activity tied to India at present. This comes at a time when Carney's visit is seen as Ottawa's effort to pursue a more "pragmatic" foreign policy and deepen economic ties with India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-points-to-fraud-rules-as-tahawwur-rana-faces-potential-loss-of-citizenship-1772069128110">Canada points to fraud rules as Tahawwur Rana faces potential loss of citizenship</a> "We have a very robust diplomatic engagement, including between national security advisers, and I think we can say we're confident that that activity is not continuing," one of the senior officials said on Wednesday. The officials said that previous concerns about active foreign interference or repression linked to India are no longer ongoing. “I really don't think we'd be taking this trip if we thought these kinds of activities were continuing.”<h2>Mark Carney's India visit</h2>Carney is starting his nine-day trip to India, that includes stops in Mumbai and New Delhi. He is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since the time Carney came to power, Canadian government has been trying to improve relations with India that went downhill after the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurudwara in British Columbia. Months later, then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there was "credible" evidence linking agents of the India government to Nijjar's death, an allegation New Delhi strongly denied. The situation escalated with both sides deciding to expel diplomats. In 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) further claimed that Indian government agents were linked to violent crime in Canada, including death threats and alleged involvement in homicides.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-ties-india-canada-to-discuss-expanding-cooperation-in-energy-1772019911088/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-ties-india-canada-to-discuss-expanding-cooperation-in-energy-1772019911088/embed</a>&nbsp; However, the latest statement by officials is a sharp U-turn from earlier position. Reacting to the statement, Moninder Singh, a religious leader in British Columbia, told the Toronto Star that Vancouver police recently warned him of an imminent threat to his life and that of his family. Protests were also held on Parliament Hill by members of Sikhs for Justice, the group with which Nijjar was associated. Demonstrators condemned the government's renewed engagement with India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ahead-of-pm-s-india-visit-canada-seeks-to-revoke-26-11-mastermind-tahawwur-hussain-rana-s-citizenship-1771922916744">Ahead of PM's India visit, Canada seeks to revoke 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Hussain Rana’s citizenship</a><h2>India-Canada relations</h2>

Speaking to WION, India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, Dinesh Patnaik had expressed optimism about the ties between the two countries and said that disagreements should be handled through dialogue rather than by damaging the overall relationship. He suggested that Canada had overreacted when the allegations first emerged. On Nijjar issue, he said that the matter is in court. “We have always maintained that we will cooperate with Canada. We work together with Canada to make sure that the perpetrators, are brought to justice.” Patnaik also said that the recent discussions between the two countries' National Security Advisors, during NSA Ajit Doval's visit to Ottawa, marked a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral security ties.

Ahead of PM Mark Carney’s India visit, Canada signalled a policy shift, saying it no longer sees India linked to violent crimes or interference. The move marks a reset in strained ties after the Nijjar row, as Ottawa looks to boost diplomatic and economic engagement with New Delhi.

In a significant policy shift ahead of Canadian PM Mark Carney's visit to India, Canada has said that it believes New Delhi is no longer linked to violent crimes in Canada. According to Canadian English daily Toronto Star, the statement came during a briefing with journalists ahead of Carney's trip. According to the report, the statement suggests that Canadian authorities do not see ongoing foreign interference or violent activity tied to India at present. This comes at a time when Carney's visit is seen as Ottawa's effort to pursue a more "pragmatic" foreign policy and deepen economic ties with India. Also Read: Canada points to fraud rules as Tahawwur Rana faces potential loss of citizenship "We have a very robust diplomatic engagement, including between national security advisers, and I think we can say we're confident that that activity is not continuing," one of the senior officials said on Wednesday. The officials said that previous concerns about active foreign interference or repression linked to India are no longer ongoing. “I really don't think we'd be taking this trip if we thought these kinds of activities were continuing.” Mark Carney's India visit Carney is starting his nine-day trip to India, that includes stops in Mumbai and New Delhi. He is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since the time Carney came to power, Canadian government has been trying to improve relations with India that went downhill after the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurudwara in British Columbia. Months later, then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there was "credible" evidence linking agents of the India government to Nijjar's death, an allegation New Delhi strongly denied. The situation escalated with both sides deciding to expel diplomats. In 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) further claimed that Indian government agents were linked to violent crime in Canada, including death threats and alleged involvement in homicides. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-ties-india-canada-to-discuss-expanding-cooperation-in-energy-1772019911088/embed However, the latest statement by officials is a sharp U-turn from earlier position. Reacting to the statement, Moninder Singh, a religious leader in British Columbia, told the Toronto Star that Vancouver police recently warned him of an imminent threat to his life and that of his family. Protests were also held on Parliament Hill by members of Sikhs for Justice, the group with which Nijjar was associated. Demonstrators condemned the government's renewed engagement with India. Also Read: Ahead of PM's India visit, Canada seeks to revoke 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Hussain Rana’s citizenship India-Canada relations

Ahead of PM Mark Carney’s India visit, Canada signalled a policy shift, saying it no longer sees India linked to violent crimes or interference. The move marks a reset in strained ties after the Nijjar row, as Ottawa looks to boost diplomatic and economic engagement with New Delhi.

'Activity is not continuing...': Canada makes U-turn on terror accusations against India ahead of Carney’s visit, but avoids direct Nijjar reference

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 25) surprised his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, by wearing traditional Indian attire ahead of their joint dinner. The video of the incident has gone viral after the Israeli PM shared it. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Israel and both countries will sign MoU on tech transfer for Iron Dome, Iron Beam, advanced missiles. The Indian PM also became the first Indian Prime Minister to address a Special Plenary of the Knesset in Jerusalem. He received by the ‘Speaker of the Knesset’ honour. In a post on X, PM Netanyahu wrote, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire.” He wrote the post in Hindi.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">हमारे संयुक्त रात्रिभोज से पहले, मैंने अपने मित्र प्रधानमंत्री मोदी को पारंपरिक भारतीय परिधान पहनकर चौंका दिया। 🇮🇱🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/3ElIQeLY97">pic.twitter.com/3ElIQeLY97</a>&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/2026734437145211343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 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/pm-modi-greeted-by-israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-as-he-lands-in-israel-1772017052730">PM Modi greeted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on landing in Israel, to address Knesset</a> In his address, PM expressed gratitude for being bestowed with the 'Speaker of The Knesset' medal, which he dedicated to the enduring friendship and shared democratic traditions of the two countries. Highlighting the strong bonds of friendship between India and Israel, the Prime Minister noted that the two peoples share both ancient civilizational ties and a robust contemporary partnership based on technology, innovation, defence, security and strategic convergences. He stated that the vibrant people-to-people ties based on cooperation in agriculture, rural development, water management, sustainability and enterprise have imparted a dynamic outlook to the relationship. Underlining the historical connections and two-way movement of people between the two countries, the Prime Minister stated that the Indian community in Israel and the Jewish diaspora in India have made a significant contribution to progress in both countries. Recalling the uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism of the two countries, the Prime Minister offered condolences for the October 7 terror attack and noted that there can be no justification for such brutality. He offered India's support to all efforts that contribute to durable peace and stability in the region. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-welcome-my-friend-laughter-flows-as-modi-and-netanyahu-notice-sara-matching-indian-pm-s-saffron-flair-1772020029080">WATCH | ‘Welcome my friend’: Laughter flows as Modi and Netanyahu notice Sara matching Indian PM's saffron flair</a>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu surprised PM Narendra Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire ahead of their joint dinner. Modi addressed the Knesset, becoming the first Indian PM to do so, and reaffirmed strong India-Israel ties spanning defence, technology and shared democratic values.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 25) surprised his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, by wearing traditional Indian attire ahead of their joint dinner. The video of the incident has gone viral after the Israeli PM shared it. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Israel and both countries will sign MoU on tech transfer for Iron Dome, Iron Beam, advanced missiles. The Indian PM also became the first Indian Prime Minister to address a Special Plenary of the Knesset in Jerusalem. He received by the ‘Speaker of the Knesset’ honour. In a post on X, PM Netanyahu wrote, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire.” He wrote the post in Hindi.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu surprised PM Narendra Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire ahead of their joint dinner. Modi addressed the Knesset, becoming the first Indian PM to do so, and reaffirmed strong India-Israel ties spanning defence, technology and shared democratic values.

'I surprised my friend...': Israel's Netanyahu wears 'Modi jacket' for joint dinner with Indian PM - WATCH

Donald Trump’s State of the Union speech on Tuesday fell on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s all-out assault on Ukraine, the bloodiest conflict since World War II. The American president ignored the coincidence and dedicated just 45 words to Ukraine.Given that his State of the Union address was the longest ever, at one hour and 47 minutes, the omission was startling, coming from a politician whose campaign for re-election in 2024 routinely claimed he would solve the war within 24 hours, thanks to his good relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.On the war, he said that he and his team were “working hard to end the killing and slaughter between Russia and Ukraine, where 25,000 soldiers are dying each and every month.”There have been numerous meetings between his main negotiators, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, and the Russian and Ukrainian leaders. But there is no sign that Putin is prepared to compromise on his demand that Ukraine give up territory in exchange for peace.The State of the Union is a key event in the often theatrical politics that have become the norm in this deeply polarised country. Foreign policy usually plays a minor role because elections tend to be decided by the state of the economy.Consequently, Trump’s marathon speech was largely devoted to the achievements of his first year in office and a portrayal of the economy which differed sharply from the way the majority of citizens see it, according to a series of polls. According to the president, the United States is in a Golden Age and has gone through a “turnaround for the ages.”But five recent polls show that around 56 per cent of voters disapprove of his performance on a number of key issues, including inflation, the high cost of living and the rough tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in deporting undocumented immigrants.More than two-thirds of those who responded to polls said Trump is exceeding his presidential authority – an assessment which has prompted a series of demonstrations by citizens waving “No Kings” placards.They are unlikely to be swayed by the first line of Trump’s address: “My fellow Americans, our nation is back. Bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before.”Aware of his flagging approval numbers, he singled out the price of gasoline, a huge item in household budgets across the country. “Gasoline, which reached a peak of over $6 a gallon in some states…is now below $2.30 a gallon in most states and in some places $1.99 a gallon.”Fact checkers quickly went to work on this claim and found that the national average price of regular gasoline is just under $3.00 a gallon. GasBuddy, a website monitoring prices, found that four to eight stations, out of 150,000 in the country, were selling gasoline below $2.00.Using inflated or plain wrong figures have been standard operating procedure for Trump ever since he entered politics. In his first term in office, from 2017 to 2021, the Washington Post newspaper documented what they called “false or misleading claims” popularly known as lies. The total: 30,573.The Post did not pursue that kind of monitoring in Trump’s second term, but the first-term tally should be kept in mind when Trump and his aides boast about the benefits of the tariffs he imposed on “Liberation Day” on April 2 last year. That resulted, the government says, in $257 billion in tax revenue.Just four days before the State of the Union ceremony, the Supreme Court, by a 6-3 majority, struck down Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs in a decision that translates to a clear message: your executive powers have limits. Imposing the levies required approval from Congress, the judges ruled.The most serious defeat for Trump in his second term, the tariff decision requires the government to refund more than $175 billion to importers.Trump, who never takes no for an answer, promptly responded to the Court’s decision by declaring a 10 per cent global tariff, increased to 15 per cent a day later, under legislation that differs from the “economic emergency” act he used last year. The law he now cites allows for levies to expire after 150 days.Having given Russia-Ukraine short shrift in his speech, Trump kept his country – and the world –on edge waiting to find out his plans for Iran after assembling a huge armada off Iran and threatening military action unless the theocratic rulers in Tehran accept American demands, one of which is agreement never to build a nuclear weapon."We haven't heard from them those secret words: 'We do not want nuclear weapons ever'", he said in his speech. This was a rather baffling statement, given that Iran’s top nuclear negotiator used almost the exact phrase in a message on X: “Iran will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon."The State of the Union would have been the perfect occasion for the president to explain why military action might be necessary and how it would benefit citizens struggling to pay their bills.He let it pass.

Trump’s marathon speech was largely devoted to the achievements of his first year in office and a portrayal of the economy which differed sharply from the way the majority of citizens see it, according to a series of polls.

Donald Trump’s State of the Union speech on Tuesday fell on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s all-out assault on Ukraine, the bloodiest conflict since World War II. The American president ignored the coincidence and dedicated just 45 words to Ukraine. Given that his State of the Union address was the longest ever, at one hour and 47 minutes, the omission was startling, coming from a politician whose campaign for re-election in 2024 routinely claimed he would solve the war within 24 hours, thanks to his good relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. On the war, he said that he and his team were “working hard to end the killing and slaughter between Russia and Ukraine, where 25,000 soldiers are dying each and every month.” There have been numerous meetings between his main negotiators, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, and the Russian and Ukrainian leaders. But there is no sign that Putin is prepared to compromise on his demand that Ukraine give up territory in exchange for peace. The State of the Union is a key event in the often theatrical politics that have become the norm in this deeply polarised country. Foreign policy usually plays a minor role because elections tend to be decided by the state of the economy. Consequently, Trump’s marathon speech was largely devoted to the achievements of his first year in office and a portrayal of the economy which differed sharply from the way the majority of citizens see it, according to a series of polls. According to the president, the United States is in a Golden Age and has gone through a “turnaround for the ages.” But five recent polls show that around 56 per cent of voters disapprove of his performance on a number of key issues, including inflation, the high cost of living and the rough tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in deporting undocumented immigrants. More than two-thirds of those who responded to polls said Trump is exceeding his presidential authority – an assessment which has prompted a series of demonstrations by citizens waving “No Kings” placards. They are unlikely to be swayed by the first line of Trump’s address: “My fellow Americans, our nation is back. Bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before.” Aware of his flagging approval numbers, he singled out the price of gasoline, a huge item in household budgets across the country. “Gasoline, which reached a peak of over $6 a gallon in some states…is now below $2.30 a gallon in most states and in some places $1.99 a gallon.” Fact checkers quickly went to work on this claim and found that the national average price of regular gasoline is just under $3.00 a gallon. GasBuddy, a website monitoring prices, found that four to eight stations, out of 150,000 in the country, were selling gasoline below $2.00. Using inflated or plain wrong figures have been standard operating procedure for Trump ever since he entered politics. In his first term in office, from 2017 to 2021, the Washington Post newspaper documented what they called “false or misleading claims” popularly known as lies. The total: 30,573. The Post did not pursue that kind of monitoring in Trump’s second term, but the first-term tally should be kept in mind when Trump and his aides boast about the benefits of the tariffs he imposed on “Liberation Day” on April 2 last year. That resulted, the government says, in $257 billion in tax revenue. Just four days before the State of the Union ceremony, the Supreme Court, by a 6-3 majority, struck down Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs in a decision that translates to a clear message: your executive powers have limits. Imposing the levies required approval from Congress, the judges ruled. The most serious defeat for Trump in his second term, the tariff decision requires the government to refund more than $175 billion to importers. Trump, who never takes no for an answer, promptly responded to the Court’s decision by declaring a 10 per cent global tariff, increased to 15 per cent a day later, under legislation that differs from the “economic emergency” act he used last year. The law he now cites allows for levies to expire after 150 days. Having given Russia-Ukraine short shrift in his speech, Trump kept his country – and the world –on edge waiting to find out his plans for Iran after assembling a huge armada off Iran and threatening military action unless the theocratic rulers in Tehran accept American demands, one of which is agreement never to build a nuclear weapon. "We haven't heard from them those secret words: 'We do not want nuclear weapons ever'", he said in his speech. This was a rather baffling statement, given that Iran’s top nuclear negotiator used almost the exact phrase in a message on X: “Iran will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon." The State of the Union would have been the perfect occasion for the president to explain why military action might be necessary and how it would benefit citizens struggling to pay their bills. He let it pass.

Trump’s marathon speech was largely devoted to the achievements of his first year in office and a portrayal of the economy which differed sharply from the way the majority of citizens see it, according to a series of polls.

Trump keeps world guessing on Iran plans, Ukraine negotiations

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended a rare party congress with a message for the United States, saying that his country could "get along" with Washington if President Donald Trump's administration would respect Pyongyang's status as a nuclear power. However, Kim shut the door firmly on South Korea, saying his country remains "most hostile" towards the enemy, reported state media on Thursday (Feb 26).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/enemy-can-t-expect-god-s-protection-north-korea-s-kim-jong-un-unveils-monstrous-600-mm-rocket-launcher-1771486189076">Enemy can't expect 'God’s protection': North Korea's Kim Jong Un unveils monstrous 600-mm rocket launcher</a><h2>What did Kim Jong Un say?</h2>According to state media reports, Kim said there was “no reason” North Korea and the United States could not “get along” if Washington recognises Pyongyang’s status as a nuclear-armed state and abandons what he called its hostile policy. If Washington "respects our country's current status as stipulated in the Constitution... and withdraws its hostile policy... there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States", said the Pyongyang leader.The comment comes as speculation builds that Trump could seek a meeting with Kim during a visit to China in April.<h2>Trump-Kim to meet?</h2>While a meeting has not been confirmed, Trump has earlier signalled he would "100 per cent" be open to talks with North Korea. He has even described North Korea as “sort of a nuclear power,” language that breaks with years of US policy. A fresh meeting would mark a dramatic turn after diplomacy stalled following the failed 2019 summit in Hanoi, where a deal for sanctions relief in exchange for denuclearisation proved impossible to reach.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-kim-jong-un-s-sister-kim-yo-jong-promoted-at-party-congress-amid-heir-speculation-1771898372564">North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong promoted at party congress amid heir speculation</a><h2>What did Kim Jong Un say about South Korea?</h2>While expressing flexibility with the United States, Kim was blunt about South Korea. He declared that Pyongyang would “permanently exclude” Seoul as one of his nation's "compatriots" and called it the North’s “most hostile” enemy. He insisted that North Korea had "absolutely no business dealing with South Korea, its most hostile entity". Recent gestures from the South, he said, were "deceptive".The rhetoric follows a 2024 constitutional revision that formally labelled South Korea a "hostile state," a significant shift from decades of language about eventual reunification. &nbsp;

Can North Korea and the US “get along” again? At a rare party congress, Kim Jong Un signalled openness toward Washington but struck a sharply different tone on South Korea.

What exactly did he say, and what could it mean for future talks? Scroll down to read more.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended a rare party congress with a message for the United States, saying that his country could "get along" with Washington if President Donald Trump's administration would respect Pyongyang's status as a nuclear power. However, Kim shut the door firmly on South Korea, saying his country remains "most hostile" towards the enemy, reported state media on Thursday (Feb 26). Also read | Enemy can't expect 'God’s protection': North Korea's Kim Jong Un unveils monstrous 600-mm rocket launcher What did Kim Jong Un say? According to state media reports, Kim said there was “no reason” North Korea and the United States could not “get along” if Washington recognises Pyongyang’s status as a nuclear-armed state and abandons what he called its hostile policy. If Washington "respects our country's current status as stipulated in the Constitution... and withdraws its hostile policy... there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States", said the Pyongyang leader. The comment comes as speculation builds that Trump could seek a meeting with Kim during a visit to China in April. Trump-Kim to meet? While a meeting has not been confirmed, Trump has earlier signalled he would "100 per cent" be open to talks with North Korea. He has even described North Korea as “sort of a nuclear power,” language that breaks with years of US policy. A fresh meeting would mark a dramatic turn after diplomacy stalled following the failed 2019 summit in Hanoi, where a deal for sanctions relief in exchange for denuclearisation proved impossible to reach. Also read | North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong promoted at party congress amid heir speculation What did Kim Jong Un say about South Korea? While expressing flexibility with the United States, Kim was blunt about South Korea. He declared that Pyongyang would “permanently exclude” Seoul as one of his nation's "compatriots" and called it the North’s “most hostile” enemy. He insisted that North Korea had "absolutely no business dealing with South Korea, its most hostile entity". Recent gestures from the South, he said, were "deceptive". The rhetoric follows a 2024 constitutional revision that formally labelled South Korea a "hostile state," a significant shift from decades of language about eventual reunification.

Can North Korea and the US “get along” again? At a rare party congress, Kim Jong Un signalled openness toward Washington but struck a sharply different tone on South Korea.What exactly did he say, and what could it mean for future talks? Scroll down to read more.

Can North Korea and the US 'get along' again? Kim says it's possible, but only if Trump recognised Pyongyang as nuclear state

Canada and India stand poised to significantly boost bilateral trade, with Canadian officials highlighting vast untapped potential in energy, infrastructure, and critical minerals, comments made ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney's high-profile visit to India starting 26 February.Tushar Handiekar, Vice President and Global Head of Structured &amp; Project Finance at Export Development Canada (EDC), speaking to WION, emphasised the opportunities for deeper economic ties. "There's certainly a lot of potential to significantly increase bilateral trade between Canada and India," he said. "And there are multiple sectors where Canada has strengths that India needs, that Canada can certainly provide."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-and-canada-to-take-relationship-to-next-level-with-pm-carney-visit-says-high-commissioner-dinesh-k-patnaik-1771902736988">India and Canada to 'take relationship to next level' with PM Carney visit, says High Commissioner Dinesh K Patnaik</a>Handiekar pointed to energy and energy security as key areas, encompassing both traditional oil and gas and the clean energy transition. "There are technologies [and] investments that can go into India in a big way," he noted, adding that Canadian expertise in infrastructure development, building, owning, and managing large networks, could play a major role.&nbsp;He described Canada as "a very stable partner for growth," extending to food security as well. On the planned Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Handiekar stressed the need to remove barriers. "It's important that when companies take a lot of effort in creating this bilateral trade... if there is friction in the pipe that creates slowness and that creates a question on how much, how big can it grow?" he said. "Through these trading agreements, as you can remove some of these barriers and make the trading easy, there's a lot of potential for it."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-points-to-fraud-rules-as-tahawwur-rana-faces-potential-loss-of-citizenship-1772069128110">Canada points to fraud rules as Tahawwur Rana faces potential loss of citizenship</a>He also highlighted Canadian pension funds' interest in India's rapid GDP growth and its ambitions to become a manufacturing hub. Canada, rich in critical minerals essential for batteries and defence production, could make "a big dent" in supplying raw materials and technology, he added.The remarks come as Prime Minister Carney prepares to visit Mumbai and New Delhi, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trip, part of a broader Asia-Pacific tour including Australia and Japan, aims to diversify Canada's trade amid global shifts and repair strained relations following past diplomatic tensions. The upcoming engagement is seen as a pragmatic reset, focusing on mutual economic benefits in energy, technology, and resources.

Tushar Handiekar, Vice President and Global Head of Structured & Project Finance at Export Development Canada (EDC), speaking to WION, emphasised the opportunities for deeper economic ties.

Canada and India stand poised to significantly boost bilateral trade, with Canadian officials highlighting vast untapped potential in energy, infrastructure, and critical minerals, comments made ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney's high-profile visit to India starting 26 February. Tushar Handiekar, Vice President and Global Head of Structured & Project Finance at Export Development Canada (EDC), speaking to WION, emphasised the opportunities for deeper economic ties. "There's certainly a lot of potential to significantly increase bilateral trade between Canada and India," he said. "And there are multiple sectors where Canada has strengths that India needs, that Canada can certainly provide." Also read | India and Canada to 'take relationship to next level' with PM Carney visit, says High Commissioner Dinesh K Patnaik Handiekar pointed to energy and energy security as key areas, encompassing both traditional oil and gas and the clean energy transition. "There are technologies [and] investments that can go into India in a big way," he noted, adding that Canadian expertise in infrastructure development, building, owning, and managing large networks, could play a major role. He described Canada as "a very stable partner for growth," extending to food security as well. On the planned Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Handiekar stressed the need to remove barriers. "It's important that when companies take a lot of effort in creating this bilateral trade... if there is friction in the pipe that creates slowness and that creates a question on how much, how big can it grow?" he said. "Through these trading agreements, as you can remove some of these barriers and make the trading easy, there's a lot of potential for it." Also read | Canada points to fraud rules as Tahawwur Rana faces potential loss of citizenship He also highlighted Canadian pension funds' interest in India's rapid GDP growth and its ambitions to become a manufacturing hub. Canada, rich in critical minerals essential for batteries and defence production, could make "a big dent" in supplying raw materials and technology, he added. The remarks come as Prime Minister Carney prepares to visit Mumbai and New Delhi, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trip, part of a broader Asia-Pacific tour including Australia and Japan, aims to diversify Canada's trade amid global shifts and repair strained relations following past diplomatic tensions. The upcoming engagement is seen as a pragmatic reset, focusing on mutual economic benefits in energy, technology, and resources.

Tushar Handiekar, Vice President and Global Head of Structured &amp; Project Finance at Export Development Canada (EDC), speaking to WION, emphasised the opportunities for deeper economic ties.

'Significant potential' to expand Canada-India trade, says top Canadian export agency official before Carney's India trip

Canada's immigration authorities have declined to comment on the specific citizenship case of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a Pakistani-born Canadian citizen accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, citing privacy laws and respect for ongoing legal processes. But the authorities have pointed to fraud roles as grounds for revocation of citizenship.In a statement to WION, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said: "Due to privacy legislation and out of respect for the judicial process, we cannot comment on individual cases or ongoing litigation."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-and-canada-to-take-relationship-to-next-level-with-pm-carney-visit-says-high-commissioner-dinesh-k-patnaik-1771902736988">India and Canada to 'take relationship to next level' with PM Carney visit, says High Commissioner Dinesh K Patnaik</a>The remarks came amid reports that the Canadian government has initiated proceedings to revoke Rana's citizenship, which he obtained in 2001 after immigrating in 1997.&nbsp;Documents obtained by Canadian media, Global News, indicate that IRCC has notified Rana of its intent to strip him of citizenship, pointing to alleged misrepresentation rather than his terrorism-related accusations. IRCC guidelines explain that Canadian citizenship may be revoked if an individual "committed fraud, misrepresented yourself [or] knowingly hid information on an immigration or citizenship application." If revoked, the person must wait 10 years from the date of revocation before reapplying. The process involves a Request for Information letter, giving 30 days to respond, followed potentially by a Notification Letter with 60 days for further evidence. The Federal Court typically decides such cases, though individuals can request the Minister to rule instead.Rana's situation, could be a case of falsely declared information. Rana, a former military doctor turned businessman, is known to have supported Pakistan terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba in the Mumbai attacks, which killed 166 people. He was extradited from the US to India in April 2025 to face trial there. The revocation reports, coincides with efforts to improve Canada-India relations ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to New Delhi.

In a statement to WION, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said: "Due to privacy legislation and out of respect for the judicial process, we cannot comment on individual cases or ongoing litigation."

Canada's immigration authorities have declined to comment on the specific citizenship case of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a Pakistani-born Canadian citizen accused of involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, citing privacy laws and respect for ongoing legal processes. But the authorities have pointed to fraud roles as grounds for revocation of citizenship. In a statement to WION, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said: "Due to privacy legislation and out of respect for the judicial process, we cannot comment on individual cases or ongoing litigation." Also read | India and Canada to 'take relationship to next level' with PM Carney visit, says High Commissioner Dinesh K Patnaik The remarks came amid reports that the Canadian government has initiated proceedings to revoke Rana's citizenship, which he obtained in 2001 after immigrating in 1997. Documents obtained by Canadian media, Global News, indicate that IRCC has notified Rana of its intent to strip him of citizenship, pointing to alleged misrepresentation rather than his terrorism-related accusations. IRCC guidelines explain that Canadian citizenship may be revoked if an individual "committed fraud, misrepresented yourself [or] knowingly hid information on an immigration or citizenship application." If revoked, the person must wait 10 years from the date of revocation before reapplying. The process involves a Request for Information letter, giving 30 days to respond, followed potentially by a Notification Letter with 60 days for further evidence. The Federal Court typically decides such cases, though individuals can request the Minister to rule instead. Rana's situation, could be a case of falsely declared information. Rana, a former military doctor turned businessman, is known to have supported Pakistan terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba in the Mumbai attacks, which killed 166 people. He was extradited from the US to India in April 2025 to face trial there. The revocation reports, coincides with efforts to improve Canada-India relations ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to New Delhi.

In a statement to WION, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said: "Due to privacy legislation and out of respect for the judicial process, we cannot comment on individual cases or ongoing litigation."

Canada points to fraud rules as Tahawwur Rana faces potential loss of citizenship

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Canada points to fraud rules as Tahawwur Rana faces citizenship revocation