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A massive snowstorm prompted New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani to shut down traffic citywide, restricting travel to emergencies. Blizzard warnings span the US Northeast, with up to two feet of snow, dangerous winds, and possible power outages affecting millions from Washington to Maine.

Travel ban, state of emergency, snow day at schools: New York braces for massive snowstorm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 22) confirmed his visit to Israel on Wednesday and hailed “the deep bond between India and Israel” and the multi-dimensional nature of bilateral relations. The Indian PM is scheduled to visit Israel on February 25–26, marking his first trip to Israel in his third term and his second overall since 2017. During his visit, he is slated to address the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, and is expected to sign multiple agreements in the areas of defence, technology and trade.&nbsp;In a post on X, Modi expressed appreciation for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s welcoming words, saying, “India attaches great importance to the strong and enduring friendship with Israel, a friendship based on mutual trust, innovation and a shared aspiration for peace and progress.”&nbsp;The PM made these statements in reply to Netanyahu’s post, in which he wrote, “The bond between Israel and India is a powerful alliance between two global leaders. We are partners in innovation, security and a shared strategic vision. Together, we are building an axis of nations committed to stability and progress.”&nbsp;Calling Modi his “dear friend”, the Israeli PM said, “Looking forward to seeing you in Jerusalem, PM Modi!”&nbsp;Earlier in the day, during the opening of a weekly Cabinet meeting, Netanyahu hailed growing ties between the two countries. “The fabric of relations has grown tighter, and (Modi) is coming here so that we can tighten it even more,” he said, mentioning cooperation in the economic, diplomatic and security spheres.&nbsp;Netanyahu announced Modi’s trip would help forge a new alliance to counter what he described as “radical” adversaries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-attempt-to-externalise-its-internal-failures-india-condemns-pakistan-s-airstrike-on-afghanistan-1771778585303">‘Attempt to externalise its internal failures’: India condemns Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;“In the vision I see before me, we will create an entire system, essentially a ‘hexagon’ of alliances around or within the Middle East,” the Israeli leader said.&nbsp;“This includes India, Arab nations, African nations, Mediterranean nations (Greece and Cyprus), and nations in Asia that I won’t detail at the moment,” Netanyahu said, adding that he will further elaborate on his plan in the future.&nbsp;“The intention here is to create an axis of nations that see eye-to-eye on the reality, challenges and goals against the radical axes, both the radical Shiite axis, which we have struck very hard, and the emerging radical Sunni axis,” he added.

PM Modi hailed the multidimensional nature of bilateral relations between the two countries and said he was “looking forward” to discussions during the Israel visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 22) confirmed his visit to Israel on Wednesday and hailed “the deep bond between India and Israel” and the multi-dimensional nature of bilateral relations. The Indian PM is scheduled to visit Israel on February 25–26, marking his first trip to Israel in his third term and his second overall since 2017. During his visit, he is slated to address the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, and is expected to sign multiple agreements in the areas of defence, technology and trade. In a post on X, Modi expressed appreciation for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s welcoming words, saying, “India attaches great importance to the strong and enduring friendship with Israel, a friendship based on mutual trust, innovation and a shared aspiration for peace and progress.” The PM made these statements in reply to Netanyahu’s post, in which he wrote, “The bond between Israel and India is a powerful alliance between two global leaders. We are partners in innovation, security and a shared strategic vision. Together, we are building an axis of nations committed to stability and progress.” Calling Modi his “dear friend”, the Israeli PM said, “Looking forward to seeing you in Jerusalem, PM Modi!” Earlier in the day, during the opening of a weekly Cabinet meeting, Netanyahu hailed growing ties between the two countries. “The fabric of relations has grown tighter, and (Modi) is coming here so that we can tighten it even more,” he said, mentioning cooperation in the economic, diplomatic and security spheres. Netanyahu announced Modi’s trip would help forge a new alliance to counter what he described as “radical” adversaries. Also Read: ‘Attempt to externalise its internal failures’: India condemns Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghanistan “In the vision I see before me, we will create an entire system, essentially a ‘hexagon’ of alliances around or within the Middle East,” the Israeli leader said. “This includes India, Arab nations, African nations, Mediterranean nations (Greece and Cyprus), and nations in Asia that I won’t detail at the moment,” Netanyahu said, adding that he will further elaborate on his plan in the future. “The intention here is to create an axis of nations that see eye-to-eye on the reality, challenges and goals against the radical axes, both the radical Shiite axis, which we have struck very hard, and the emerging radical Sunni axis,” he added.

PM Modi hailed the multidimensional nature of bilateral relations between the two countries and said he was “looking forward” to discussions during the Israel visit.

PM Modi hails enduring Israel ties ahead of visit; Netanyahu floats ‘hexagon’ alliance with India

The Russian civil aviation agency closed all four international airports of Moscow due to safety concerns on Sunday afternoon until further notice after a Ukrainian drone attack. Russia said its air defence forces shot down 11 Ukrainian drones within an hour. The Russian civil aviation agency, Rosaviatsia, said in a press release that air traffic restrictions were imposed at all four international airports—Domodedovo, Vnukovo, Zhukovsky, and Sheremetyevo—in Moscow due to safety concerns.&nbsp;“Air defences have intercepted another UAV flying towards Moscow,” Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said on his Max channel at 4 pm (local time).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-in-final-stage-of-picking-new-chief-says-official-hayya-meshaal-frontrunners-1771774770364">Hamas in final stage of picking new chief, says official; Hayya, Meshaal frontrunners</a>&nbsp;At around 6 pm, the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched their second attack on Moscow, after which Mayor Sobyanin reported the destruction of 21 Ukrainian UAVs.“Emergency services are working at the site of the fallen debris,” he wrote on the MAX platform&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-created-raw-talent-to-serve-others-says-sam-pitroda-bjp-say-congress-bashing-bharat-1771765863125">‘India created raw talent to serve others,’ says Sam Pitroda; BJP say Congress ‘bashing Bharat’</a>&nbsp;A total of 25 drones targeted the Moscow region, and the first of these was shot down at around 3 pm, after which the attacks ceased for almost two hours.&nbsp;All Moscow airports imposed temporary restrictions on aircraft landings and departures. The restrictions were later lifted from some airports.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-used-global-event-for-dirty-naked-politics-pm-tears-into-congress-for-shirtless-protest-at-ai-summit-1771755566543">‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit</a>&nbsp;Russia claimed that over the day, its air defence systems shot down 81 drones over the Bryansk region, 26 UAVs over the Belgorod region, 17 drones over the Kaluga region, two each over the Kursk and Tula regions, and one over the Tver region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-s-sls-rocket-faces-helium-flow-issue-artemis-ii-march-launch-almost-assuredly-scuttled-1771696356877">NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled</a>&nbsp;As the war with its neighbour is about to enter the fifth year, Russia said Ukrainian drones regularly attack its different regions, including Moscow. Russia also attacked Ukraine with a barrage of missiles and drones.

A total of 25 drones targeted the Moscow region, and the first of these was shot down at around 3 pm, after which the attacks ceased for two hours. All Moscow airports imposed temporary restrictions on aircraft landings and departures. The restrictions were later lifted from some airports.

The Russian civil aviation agency closed all four international airports of Moscow due to safety concerns on Sunday afternoon until further notice after a Ukrainian drone attack. Russia said its air defence forces shot down 11 Ukrainian drones within an hour. The Russian civil aviation agency, Rosaviatsia, said in a press release that air traffic restrictions were imposed at all four international airports—Domodedovo, Vnukovo, Zhukovsky, and Sheremetyevo—in Moscow due to safety concerns. “Air defences have intercepted another UAV flying towards Moscow,” Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said on his Max channel at 4 pm (local time). Also Read: Hamas in final stage of picking new chief, says official; Hayya, Meshaal frontrunners At around 6 pm, the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched their second attack on Moscow, after which Mayor Sobyanin reported the destruction of 21 Ukrainian UAVs. “Emergency services are working at the site of the fallen debris,” he wrote on the MAX platform Also Read: ‘India created raw talent to serve others,’ says Sam Pitroda; BJP say Congress ‘bashing Bharat’ A total of 25 drones targeted the Moscow region, and the first of these was shot down at around 3 pm, after which the attacks ceased for almost two hours. All Moscow airports imposed temporary restrictions on aircraft landings and departures. The restrictions were later lifted from some airports. Also Read: ‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit Russia claimed that over the day, its air defence systems shot down 81 drones over the Bryansk region, 26 UAVs over the Belgorod region, 17 drones over the Kaluga region, two each over the Kursk and Tula regions, and one over the Tver region. Also Read: NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled As the war with its neighbour is about to enter the fifth year, Russia said Ukrainian drones regularly attack its different regions, including Moscow. Russia also attacked Ukraine with a barrage of missiles and drones.

A total of 25 drones targeted the Moscow region, and the first of these was shot down at around 3 pm, after which the attacks ceased for two hours. All Moscow airports imposed temporary restrictions on aircraft landings and departures. The restrictions were later lifted from some airports.

Moscow airports closed after Ukrainian drone attacks; Russia claims to have shot down many UAVs

Both Danish and Greenland leaders on Sunday (Feb 22) rejected Donald Trump's offer to send a naval hospital ship to the Arctic island. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, in a Facebook post, said "no thanks' from us," saying that the Danish autonomous territory has a public health care system that provides free treatment for its citizens. "President Trump's idea of sending an American hospital ship here to Greenland has been noted. But we have a public healthcare system where treatment is free for citizens. It is a deliberate choice and a fundamental part of our society," Nielsen wrote.&nbsp;The statement comes a day after the US president said he was sending "a great hospital boat to Greenland to take care of the many people who are sick, and not being taken care of there".&nbsp;Earlier, Trump, in his Truth Social message about the hospital ship, posted an AI-generated image of a US Navy medical vessel, USNS Mercy."It's on the way!!!" he added. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, in a veiled reply to Trump, said she was "happy to live in a country where access to healthcare is free and equal for all. Where insurance or wealth does not determine whether one receives dignified treatment." The public health system in Denmark is considered one of the best in the world, with access to free healthcare for citizens. In Greenland, currently, five regional hospitals are operational across the vast Arctic island, with the one in the capital Nuuk serving patients from all over the territory, population 57,000.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-snubs-trump-says-it-won-t-join-us-president-s-board-of-peace-1771249895098">European Union snubs Trump; says it won't join US President's 'Board of Peace'</a>&nbsp;Relations between the United States and Denmark reached a historical low in early 2026, due to President Trump’s aggressive and public claims regarding the annexation of Greenland.&nbsp;However, the tensions over Greenland between Denmark, European countries and the United States eased after Trump agreed to diplomatic negotiations with NATO partners during a high-stakes meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21.&nbsp;On February 07, Denmark's foreign minister said that his country is now in a better position compared to the recent past over President Trump's wish to take Greenland under US control. However, he cautioned that the crisis has not been resolved yet. “We are not out of the crisis, and we do not have a solution yet.”

Relations between the United States and Denmark reached a historical low in early 2026, due to President Trump’s aggressive and public claims regarding the annexation of Greenland.

Both Danish and Greenland leaders on Sunday (Feb 22) rejected Donald Trump's offer to send a naval hospital ship to the Arctic island. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, in a Facebook post, said "no thanks' from us," saying that the Danish autonomous territory has a public health care system that provides free treatment for its citizens. "President Trump's idea of sending an American hospital ship here to Greenland has been noted. But we have a public healthcare system where treatment is free for citizens. It is a deliberate choice and a fundamental part of our society," Nielsen wrote. The statement comes a day after the US president said he was sending "a great hospital boat to Greenland to take care of the many people who are sick, and not being taken care of there". Earlier, Trump, in his Truth Social message about the hospital ship, posted an AI-generated image of a US Navy medical vessel, USNS Mercy. "It's on the way!!!" he added. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, in a veiled reply to Trump, said she was "happy to live in a country where access to healthcare is free and equal for all. Where insurance or wealth does not determine whether one receives dignified treatment." The public health system in Denmark is considered one of the best in the world, with access to free healthcare for citizens. In Greenland, currently, five regional hospitals are operational across the vast Arctic island, with the one in the capital Nuuk serving patients from all over the territory, population 57,000. Also Read: European Union snubs Trump; says it won't join US President's 'Board of Peace' Relations between the United States and Denmark reached a historical low in early 2026, due to President Trump’s aggressive and public claims regarding the annexation of Greenland. However, the tensions over Greenland between Denmark, European countries and the United States eased after Trump agreed to diplomatic negotiations with NATO partners during a high-stakes meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21. On February 07, Denmark's foreign minister said that his country is now in a better position compared to the recent past over President Trump's wish to take Greenland under US control. However, he cautioned that the crisis has not been resolved yet. “We are not out of the crisis, and we do not have a solution yet.”

Relations between the United States and Denmark reached a historical low in early 2026, due to President Trump’s aggressive and public claims regarding the annexation of Greenland.

'No thanks': Greenland and Denmark reject Trump's 'great hospital boat' offer

India on Sunday (Feb 22) strongly condemned Pakistan's air strikes in Afghanistan that killed nearly 20 people, including women and children. New Delhi termed Islamabad's recent military attack as "another attempt by Pakistan to externalise its internal failures" and reiterated India's support for Afghanistan's "sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence" in the face of aggression. "India strongly condemns Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, during the holy month of Ramadan," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement.&nbsp;India's response comes after Pakistan Air Force launched multiple airstrikes across eastern Afghanistan on Sunday. The operation marks a severe escalation in an already volatile relationship between the two countries.&nbsp;Pakistan's Ministry of Information claimed that the operation was "intelligence-based" and “highly selective” in picking targets, which he called terror hideouts belonging to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP). Islamabad struck 7 targets in Nangarhar Province and Paktika Province of Afghanistan and claimed that over 80 militants were killed and multiple training centres were destroyed in these attacks.&nbsp;However, Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said that the strikes hit residential areas and a religious seminary, killing dozens of civilians, including at least 17 members of a single family in Behsud.&nbsp;Pakistan touted these strikes as a "retributive response" to the recent surge in terror attacks inside Pakistan, including the Islamabad Mosque Bombing and Banu attack, as it blamed Afghanistan for providing sanctuary to terrorists in its territory, a claim that Kabul denies.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-edwin-lutyens-his-statue-at-rashtrapati-bhavan-to-be-replaced-with-c-rajagopalachari-s-1771768836051">Who was Edwin Lutyens? His statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan to be replaced with C Rajagopalachari’s</a>&nbsp;Responding to airstrikes, Afghanistan's Foreign Ministry summoned the Pakistani ambassador and described the strikes as a ‘provocative act’ and a clear breach of the country's territorial integrity, warning that Pakistan would bear responsibility for the consequences.&nbsp;Taliban's defence ministry vowed a strong response to Pakistan for "targeting civilians and religious sites" and condemned the attack as “a breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness.”&nbsp;“We hold the Pakistani military responsible for targeting civilians and religious sites. We will respond to these attacks in due course with a measured and appropriate response," It said in a statement. &nbsp;

Taliban's defence ministry vowed a strong response to Pakistan for "targeting civilians and religious sites" and condemned the attack as “a breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness.”

India on Sunday (Feb 22) strongly condemned Pakistan's air strikes in Afghanistan that killed nearly 20 people, including women and children. New Delhi termed Islamabad's recent military attack as "another attempt by Pakistan to externalise its internal failures" and reiterated India's support for Afghanistan's "sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence" in the face of aggression. "India strongly condemns Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children, during the holy month of Ramadan," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement. India's response comes after Pakistan Air Force launched multiple airstrikes across eastern Afghanistan on Sunday. The operation marks a severe escalation in an already volatile relationship between the two countries. Pakistan's Ministry of Information claimed that the operation was "intelligence-based" and “highly selective” in picking targets, which he called terror hideouts belonging to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP). Islamabad struck 7 targets in Nangarhar Province and Paktika Province of Afghanistan and claimed that over 80 militants were killed and multiple training centres were destroyed in these attacks. However, Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said that the strikes hit residential areas and a religious seminary, killing dozens of civilians, including at least 17 members of a single family in Behsud. Pakistan touted these strikes as a "retributive response" to the recent surge in terror attacks inside Pakistan, including the Islamabad Mosque Bombing and Banu attack, as it blamed Afghanistan for providing sanctuary to terrorists in its territory, a claim that Kabul denies. Also Read: Who was Edwin Lutyens? His statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan to be replaced with C Rajagopalachari’s Responding to airstrikes, Afghanistan's Foreign Ministry summoned the Pakistani ambassador and described the strikes as a ‘provocative act’ and a clear breach of the country's territorial integrity, warning that Pakistan would bear responsibility for the consequences. Taliban's defence ministry vowed a strong response to Pakistan for "targeting civilians and religious sites" and condemned the attack as “a breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness.” “We hold the Pakistani military responsible for targeting civilians and religious sites. We will respond to these attacks in due course with a measured and appropriate response," It said in a statement.

Afghan defence ministry vowed a strong response to Pakistan for "targeting civilians and religious sites" and condemned the attack as “a breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness.”

‘Attempt to externalise its internal failures’: India condemns Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghanistan

Days after Prince Andrew’s shocking arrest, it has been revealed that he allegedly used his personal security to guard Jeffrey Epstein’s home. Newly released emails disclosed by the US Department of Justice show that Metropolitan Police bodyguards assigned to protect the former prince, and funded by taxpayers, were used to guard a high-profile party in 2010.&nbsp;On February 19, the former prince was arrested by Norfolk Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released 11 hours later. While he was in custody, police searched his Norfolk home and his former residence in Windsor.&nbsp;<h2>Andrew’s security guarded Epstein’s home</h2>Newly released emails, as reported by The Sunday Times, reveal how the two officers of former prince were allegedly instructed to guard a dinner party at convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s home The two officers were asked to be the doorman of the Epstein's seven-floor Manhattan mansion in Dec 2010. This is two years after Epstein was convicted of procuring a minor for prostitution.&nbsp;Two officers from Scotland Yard’s royal protection team accompanied the former duke to a dinner party hosted on December 2, 2010. The high-profile event allegedly included several A-list guests, including Woody Allen, his wife Soon-Yi Previn, and Chelsea Handler. Sir Mick Jagger was reportedly invited but did not attend.&nbsp;Emails released in the Epstein files appear to reveal conversations regarding arrangements for Andrew and Epstein.&nbsp;Informing Epstein about the then-duke’s security detail, a member of his staff reportedly wrote in an email: "The Duke's 2 protection officers along with the state security will all be here for tomorrows dinner party. Rich has given them instruction on the door. Do you wish Rich to stay for the party or is it ok for him to go home?"&nbsp;"Rich" is reportedly Richard Barnett - Epstein's security fixer.&nbsp;Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. However, emails released in the Epstein files also appear to show arrangements for Andrew to stay with Epstein. The emails, according to BBC, suggest that Andrew and his MET officers were given a temporary security code to "get in and out" of Sex-offender's New York property.&nbsp;However, speaking about this 2010 meeting, Andrew has told BBC Newsnight in 2019 that he had travelled to New York in 2010 to “cut ties” with Epstein. He was photographed with Epstein in Central Park during the visit. &nbsp;On Friday, according to BBC, the Met say that it is contacting Andrew's protection officers, asked them to reveal anything they saw or heard while working for the former prince.&nbsp;

On February 19, the former prince was arrested by Norfolk Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released 11 hours later. While he was in custody, police searched his Norfolk home and his former residence in Windsor.

Days after Prince Andrew’s shocking arrest, it has been revealed that he allegedly used his personal security to guard Jeffrey Epstein’s home. Newly released emails disclosed by the US Department of Justice show that Metropolitan Police bodyguards assigned to protect the former prince, and funded by taxpayers, were used to guard a high-profile party in 2010. On February 19, the former prince was arrested by Norfolk Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released 11 hours later. While he was in custody, police searched his Norfolk home and his former residence in Windsor. Andrew’s security guarded Epstein’s home Newly released emails, as reported by The Sunday Times, reveal how the two officers of former prince were allegedly instructed to guard a dinner party at convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s home The two officers were asked to be the doorman of the Epstein's seven-floor Manhattan mansion in Dec 2010. This is two years after Epstein was convicted of procuring a minor for prostitution. Two officers from Scotland Yard’s royal protection team accompanied the former duke to a dinner party hosted on December 2, 2010. The high-profile event allegedly included several A-list guests, including Woody Allen, his wife Soon-Yi Previn, and Chelsea Handler. Sir Mick Jagger was reportedly invited but did not attend. Emails released in the Epstein files appear to reveal conversations regarding arrangements for Andrew and Epstein. Informing Epstein about the then-duke’s security detail, a member of his staff reportedly wrote in an email: "The Duke's 2 protection officers along with the state security will all be here for tomorrows dinner party. Rich has given them instruction on the door. Do you wish Rich to stay for the party or is it ok for him to go home?" "Rich" is reportedly Richard Barnett - Epstein's security fixer. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. However, emails released in the Epstein files also appear to show arrangements for Andrew to stay with Epstein. The emails, according to BBC, suggest that Andrew and his MET officers were given a temporary security code to "get in and out" of Sex-offender's New York property. However, speaking about this 2010 meeting, Andrew has told BBC Newsnight in 2019 that he had travelled to New York in 2010 to “cut ties” with Epstein. He was photographed with Epstein in Central Park during the visit. On Friday, according to BBC, the Met say that it is contacting Andrew's protection officers, asked them to reveal anything they saw or heard while working for the former prince.

On February 19, the former prince was arrested by Norfolk Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released 11 hours later. While he was in custody, police searched his Norfolk home and his former residence in Windsor.

Andrew's taxpayer-funded Met officers instructed to guard door at Epstein dinner party in New York

A senior Hamas official revealed on Sunday that the Palestinian group was in the final stage of selecting a new leader and said two prominent figures are in contention for the position. Hamas recently completed the formation of a new Shoura Council, a consultative body largely composed of religious scholars, as well as a new political bureau, the official told AFP. Members of the council are elected every four years by representatives from Hamas’s three branches: the Gaza Strip, the occupied West Bank, and the external leadership.&nbsp;The council subsequently elects the political bureau, which in turn selects the head of the movement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-created-raw-talent-to-serve-others-says-sam-pitroda-bjp-say-congress-bashing-bharat-1771765863125">‘India created raw talent to serve others,’ says Sam Pitroda; BJP say Congress ‘bashing Bharat’</a>&nbsp;The Palestinian group has completed its internal elections in the three regions and has reached the final stage of selecting the head of the political bureau, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to speak publicly.&nbsp;Another Hamas source also confirmed the development within the group, which fought a devastating war with Israel following its audacious October 7, 2023, attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya two main contenders for post</h2>&nbsp;He added that the race for the group’s leadership is now between Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya.&nbsp;Hayya, 65, is a Gaza native and was the chief negotiator of Hamas in ceasefire talks. He has held senior roles in the group since 2006, according to the US-based NGO the Counter Extremism Project (CEP).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-used-global-event-for-dirty-naked-politics-pm-tears-into-congress-for-shirtless-protest-at-ai-summit-1771755566543">‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit</a>&nbsp;Meshaal, who led the political bureau from 2004 to 2017, has never lived in Gaza and currently heads the movement’s diaspora office. Born in the West Bank in 1956, he joined Hamas in Kuwait and later lived in Jordan, Syria and Qatar. He is credited for Hamas’s evolution into a political-military hybrid, says CEP.&nbsp;As per reports, Hayya enjoys backing from the group’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassem Brigades.&nbsp;<h2>Hamas opted for interim five-member leadership committee</h2>&nbsp;After Israel killed former Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July 2024, the group chose its then-Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar as his successor. Israel accused Sinwar of masterminding the October 7 attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-s-sls-rocket-faces-helium-flow-issue-artemis-ii-march-launch-almost-assuredly-scuttled-1771696356877">NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled</a>&nbsp;Sinwar was also killed by Israeli forces in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, three months after Haniyeh’s assassination.&nbsp;Considering the risk of the new chief also being targeted and eliminated by Israel, Hamas had postponed the appointment of a single leader until elections and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

After Israel killed Ismail Haniyeh and his successor, Yahya Sinwar, within months, Hamas postponed the appointment of a single leader due to the risk of the new chief also being targeted, and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

A senior Hamas official revealed on Sunday that the Palestinian group was in the final stage of selecting a new leader and said two prominent figures are in contention for the position. Hamas recently completed the formation of a new Shoura Council, a consultative body largely composed of religious scholars, as well as a new political bureau, the official told AFP. Members of the council are elected every four years by representatives from Hamas’s three branches: the Gaza Strip, the occupied West Bank, and the external leadership. The council subsequently elects the political bureau, which in turn selects the head of the movement. Also Read: ‘India created raw talent to serve others,’ says Sam Pitroda; BJP say Congress ‘bashing Bharat’ The Palestinian group has completed its internal elections in the three regions and has reached the final stage of selecting the head of the political bureau, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to speak publicly. Another Hamas source also confirmed the development within the group, which fought a devastating war with Israel following its audacious October 7, 2023, attack. Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya two main contenders for post He added that the race for the group’s leadership is now between Khaled Meshaal and Khalil Al-Hayya. Hayya, 65, is a Gaza native and was the chief negotiator of Hamas in ceasefire talks. He has held senior roles in the group since 2006, according to the US-based NGO the Counter Extremism Project (CEP). Also Read: ‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit Meshaal, who led the political bureau from 2004 to 2017, has never lived in Gaza and currently heads the movement’s diaspora office. Born in the West Bank in 1956, he joined Hamas in Kuwait and later lived in Jordan, Syria and Qatar. He is credited for Hamas’s evolution into a political-military hybrid, says CEP. As per reports, Hayya enjoys backing from the group’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassem Brigades. Hamas opted for interim five-member leadership committee After Israel killed former Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July 2024, the group chose its then-Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar as his successor. Israel accused Sinwar of masterminding the October 7 attack. Also Read: NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled Sinwar was also killed by Israeli forces in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, three months after Haniyeh’s assassination. Considering the risk of the new chief also being targeted and eliminated by Israel, Hamas had postponed the appointment of a single leader until elections and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

After Israel killed Ismail Haniyeh and his successor, Yahya Sinwar, within months, Hamas postponed the appointment of a single leader due to the risk of the new chief also being targeted, and opted for an interim five-member leadership committee based in Qatar.

Hamas in final stage of picking new chief, says official; Hayya, Meshaal frontrunners

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ‘expecting to be a martyr’ in the event of a US attack on the Islamic Republic, and has made transition arrangements for the regime's survival, assigning some key officials to possibly make a deal with the Trump administration eventually. For this task, he has selected a group of insiders, the most prominent of them being Ali Larijani, the veteran politician currently heading the Supreme National Security Council, according to a report in the New York Times that cited both experts and Iran’s political and military insiders. Larijani, who was the main Iranian negotiator on the nuclear deal with the West, could be the main person, or one of the key people, who could make a deal with Trump to ensure the regime’s survival and transition.<h2>Who is Ali Larijani?</h2>Ali Larijani is at the forefront of plans to manage Iran during a potential war with the US. Following the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, Khamenei appointed Larijani as the secretary of the National Security Council and created a new National Defence Council, headed by Adm. Ali Shamkhani, to manage military affairs during wartime.Larijani is a 67-year-old veteran politician hailing from a political and religious family. The top national security official has effectively been running the country, according to the report, and was assigned by Khamenei to ensure that Iran endures military attacks and targeted killings.Larijani, a former commander in the Revolutionary Guards Corps, was in charge of crushing the recent protests demanding the end of Islamic rule.Amid recent tensions, he has been engaging in diplomatic parleys with Russia, Qatar and Oman, even as he oversees nuclear negotiations with the US.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-us-iran-tensions-inside-iran-s-opening-salvo-strategy-1771770564370/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-us-iran-tensions-inside-iran-s-opening-salvo-strategy-1771770564370/embed</a><h2>Succession: What is Ali Khamenei doing for the transition of power?</h2>According to the report, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is operating on the basis that US military strikes are inevitable and imminent.He has been distributing power and preparing the state for both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war.In a series of directives, Khamenei named four layers of succession for each of the military command and government roles that he personally appoints, the NYT report said.“He told everyone in leadership roles to name up to four replacements and delegated responsibilities to a tight circle of confidants to make decisions in case communications with him are disrupted or he is killed,” the report added.Larijani and associates would ensure that the Islamic Republic survives not only American and Israeli bombs, but also any assassination attempts on its top leadership, including on Khamenei himself, according to the report.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/will-trump-attack-iran-in-first-week-of-march-here-s-what-we-know-1771727917516">Will Trump attack Iran in first week of March? Here's what we know</a><h2>Who are in Khamenei’s trusted circle?</h2>Other than Larijani, the supreme leader’s inner circles include former commander-in-chief of the Iran Guards, Maj Gen Yahya Rahim Safavi, and Parliament Speaker Brig Gen Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who would be the de facto deputy to command the armed forces during war, and his chief of staff, the cleric Ali Asghar Hejazi.Vali Nasr, an expert on Iran at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, said Khamenei “is expecting to be a martyr and thinking, this is my system and legacy, and I will stand until the end”. He is distributing power and preparing the state for the next big thing, both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war, Nasr told NYT.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-preparing-for-war-with-israel-and-us-irgc-takes-over-hezbollah-amid-escalating-tensions-what-this-means-1771746085884">Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions - What this means</a><h2>Who will make a deal with the US if the regime falls?</h2>In case of a Venezuela-like situation in which the vice-president made a deal with the US after the ouster of Nicolas Maduro, Larijani would be the top official to negotiate such a deal for Iran.He is followed by General Ghalibaf, the Parliament Speaker, and Hassan Rouhani, a former president. The current president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, is largely sidelined and resigned to his fate, according to the report. &nbsp;

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is preparing Iran for possible US strikes, naming succession layers in case he is martyred. He is empowering Ali Larijani to ensure regime survival and potentially negotiate a deal with Washington. What else is inside the succession plan?

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ‘expecting to be a martyr’ in the event of a US attack on the Islamic Republic, and has made transition arrangements for the regime's survival, assigning some key officials to possibly make a deal with the Trump administration eventually. For this task, he has selected a group of insiders, the most prominent of them being Ali Larijani, the veteran politician currently heading the Supreme National Security Council, according to a report in the New York Times that cited both experts and Iran’s political and military insiders. Larijani, who was the main Iranian negotiator on the nuclear deal with the West, could be the main person, or one of the key people, who could make a deal with Trump to ensure the regime’s survival and transition. Who is Ali Larijani? Ali Larijani is at the forefront of plans to manage Iran during a potential war with the US. Following the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, Khamenei appointed Larijani as the secretary of the National Security Council and created a new National Defence Council, headed by Adm. Ali Shamkhani, to manage military affairs during wartime. Larijani is a 67-year-old veteran politician hailing from a political and religious family. The top national security official has effectively been running the country, according to the report, and was assigned by Khamenei to ensure that Iran endures military attacks and targeted killings. Larijani, a former commander in the Revolutionary Guards Corps, was in charge of crushing the recent protests demanding the end of Islamic rule. Amid recent tensions, he has been engaging in diplomatic parleys with Russia, Qatar and Oman, even as he oversees nuclear negotiations with the US. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-us-iran-tensions-inside-iran-s-opening-salvo-strategy-1771770564370/embed Succession: What is Ali Khamenei doing for the transition of power? According to the report, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is operating on the basis that US military strikes are inevitable and imminent. He has been distributing power and preparing the state for both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war. In a series of directives, Khamenei named four layers of succession for each of the military command and government roles that he personally appoints, the NYT report said. “He told everyone in leadership roles to name up to four replacements and delegated responsibilities to a tight circle of confidants to make decisions in case communications with him are disrupted or he is killed,” the report added. Larijani and associates would ensure that the Islamic Republic survives not only American and Israeli bombs, but also any assassination attempts on its top leadership, including on Khamenei himself, according to the report. Also read: Will Trump attack Iran in first week of March? Here's what we know Who are in Khamenei’s trusted circle? Other than Larijani, the supreme leader’s inner circles include former commander-in-chief of the Iran Guards, Maj Gen Yahya Rahim Safavi, and Parliament Speaker Brig Gen Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who would be the de facto deputy to command the armed forces during war, and his chief of staff, the cleric Ali Asghar Hejazi. Vali Nasr, an expert on Iran at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, said Khamenei “is expecting to be a martyr and thinking, this is my system and legacy, and I will stand until the end”. He is distributing power and preparing the state for the next big thing, both succession and war, aware that succession may come as a consequence of war, Nasr told NYT. Also read: Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions - What this means Who will make a deal with the US if the regime falls? In case of a Venezuela-like situation in which the vice-president made a deal with the US after the ouster of Nicolas Maduro, Larijani would be the top official to negotiate such a deal for Iran. He is followed by General Ghalibaf, the Parliament Speaker, and Hassan Rouhani, a former president. The current president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, is largely sidelined and resigned to his fate, according to the report.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is preparing Iran for possible US strikes, naming succession layers in case he is martyred. He is empowering Ali Larijani to ensure regime survival and potentially negotiate a deal with Washington. What else is inside the succession plan?

‘Expecting to be a martyr’, Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei has made a transition plan if US attacks. And this man could be the dealmaker

US Secret Service agents shot and killed an armed man early on Sunday (February 22) after he entered the secured grounds of President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, officials said. The incident occurred around 1:30 am (0630 GMT). Trump was in Washington at the time and was not at the property. According to Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi, agents saw a man unlawfully entering the estate’s secure perimeter. In a statement, the agency said the suspect, believed to be in his early 20s, was spotted near the north gate carrying what appeared to be a shotgun and a fuel can.&nbsp;Agents confronted the individual and ordered him to drop the items. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said the man put down the fuel can but then raised the shotgun into a firing position. At that point, a sheriff’s deputy and two Secret Service agents opened fire. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. No law enforcement officers were injured, and no Secret Service protectees were present at the property.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-summons-pakistan-s-ambassador-over-airstrikes-accuses-islamabad-of-bombing-civilian-areas-1771762791793">Taliban summons Pakistan's ambassador over airstrikes, accuses Islamabad of bombing 'civilian areas'</a>&nbsp;Authorities have not released the suspect’s name as they work to notify his family. The episode comes amid a series of threats and attacks targeting Trump. Earlier this month, Ryan Routh, 59, was sentenced to life in prison for plotting to assassinate Trump at a Florida golf course in September 2024. That plan followed a separate assassination attempt two months earlier in Pennsylvania, where 20-year-old Matthew Crooks fired several shots at a campaign rally, grazing Trump’s right ear.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-new-year-moscow-celebrates-lunar-new-year-with-pandas-1771771475779/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-new-year-moscow-celebrates-lunar-new-year-with-pandas-1771771475779/embed</a>&nbsp;One rally attendee was killed in that attack, and Crooks was fatally shot by security personnel at the scene. His motive remains unclear. Sunday’s shooting marks the latest instance of political violence in an increasingly divided United States of America.

US Secret Service kills armed man attempting to enter Trump's Mar-a-Lago

US Secret Service agents shot and killed an armed man early on Sunday (February 22) after he entered the secured grounds of President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, officials said. The incident occurred around 1:30 am (0630 GMT). Trump was in Washington at the time and was not at the property. According to Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi, agents saw a man unlawfully entering the estate’s secure perimeter. In a statement, the agency said the suspect, believed to be in his early 20s, was spotted near the north gate carrying what appeared to be a shotgun and a fuel can. Agents confronted the individual and ordered him to drop the items. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said the man put down the fuel can but then raised the shotgun into a firing position. At that point, a sheriff’s deputy and two Secret Service agents opened fire. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. No law enforcement officers were injured, and no Secret Service protectees were present at the property. Also Read: Taliban summons Pakistan's ambassador over airstrikes, accuses Islamabad of bombing 'civilian areas' Authorities have not released the suspect’s name as they work to notify his family. The episode comes amid a series of threats and attacks targeting Trump. Earlier this month, Ryan Routh, 59, was sentenced to life in prison for plotting to assassinate Trump at a Florida golf course in September 2024. That plan followed a separate assassination attempt two months earlier in Pennsylvania, where 20-year-old Matthew Crooks fired several shots at a campaign rally, grazing Trump’s right ear. https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-new-year-moscow-celebrates-lunar-new-year-with-pandas-1771771475779/embed One rally attendee was killed in that attack, and Crooks was fatally shot by security personnel at the scene. His motive remains unclear. Sunday’s shooting marks the latest instance of political violence in an increasingly divided United States of America.

US Secret Service agents shot and killed an armed man who was trying illegally enter the secure perimeter of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida

The Taliban’s Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday (February 22) that it had summoned the Pakistani ambassador to Kabul in response to overnight airstrikes conducted by Pakistan in eastern Afghanistan. The ministry condemned the strikes, claiming they violated Afghanistan's airspace and targeted civilian areas in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces.The Taliban labeled the airstrikes as a ‘provocative act’ and a clear breach of Afghanistan's territorial integrity, warning that Pakistan would bear responsibility for the consequences.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Ministry emphasised that defending Afghanistan’s sovereignty was a religious duty and accused Pakistan’s military of intentionally targeting civilians. Taliban officials reported that at least 20 people were killed in the Behsud district of Nangarhar, although Pakistan’s officials insisted that their strikes were aimed at militant hideouts, including those of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Daesh’s Khorasan faction.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-americans-disapprove-of-donald-trump-s-performance-in-running-country-new-poll-shows-1771758333583">Most Americans disapprove of Donald Trump’s performance in running country, new poll shows</a>&nbsp;The airstrikes occurred amid rising tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan-based militants of launching attacks on Pakistani soil, a claim the Taliban denies. Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also condemned the strikes, which he said hit a religious school and several homes, resulting in numerous casualties, including women and children.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-pakistan-violated-our-territorial-integrity-wion-breaking-1771763356556/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-pakistan-violated-our-territorial-integrity-wion-breaking-1771763356556/embed</a>&nbsp;The Afghan Ministry of National Defence declared that protecting the country’s sovereignty and security was its national responsibility and warned of a calculated response at the right time. Pakistan’s military spokesperson, however, defended the operation, describing it as "intelligence-based" and targeting key TTP camps and an Islamic State affiliate in the border region.&nbsp;The Afghan Ministry of Defence, in a statement, said, “We hold the Pakistani military responsible for targeting civilians and religious sites. We will respond to these attacks in due course with a measured and appropriate response." The Defence Ministry condemned the attacks as ‘a breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness’, and vowed to reply.

Taliban summons Pakistan's ambassador over airstrikes, accuses Islamabad of bombing 'civilian areas'

The Taliban’s Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday (February 22) that it had summoned the Pakistani ambassador to Kabul in response to overnight airstrikes conducted by Pakistan in eastern Afghanistan. The ministry condemned the strikes, claiming they violated Afghanistan's airspace and targeted civilian areas in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces. The Taliban labeled the airstrikes as a ‘provocative act’ and a clear breach of Afghanistan's territorial integrity, warning that Pakistan would bear responsibility for the consequences. The Ministry emphasised that defending Afghanistan’s sovereignty was a religious duty and accused Pakistan’s military of intentionally targeting civilians. Taliban officials reported that at least 20 people were killed in the Behsud district of Nangarhar, although Pakistan’s officials insisted that their strikes were aimed at militant hideouts, including those of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Daesh’s Khorasan faction. Also Read: Most Americans disapprove of Donald Trump’s performance in running country, new poll shows The airstrikes occurred amid rising tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan-based militants of launching attacks on Pakistani soil, a claim the Taliban denies. Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also condemned the strikes, which he said hit a religious school and several homes, resulting in numerous casualties, including women and children. https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-pakistan-violated-our-territorial-integrity-wion-breaking-1771763356556/embed The Afghan Ministry of National Defence declared that protecting the country’s sovereignty and security was its national responsibility and warned of a calculated response at the right time. Pakistan’s military spokesperson, however, defended the operation, describing it as "intelligence-based" and targeting key TTP camps and an Islamic State affiliate in the border region. The Afghan Ministry of Defence, in a statement, said, “We hold the Pakistani military responsible for targeting civilians and religious sites. We will respond to these attacks in due course with a measured and appropriate response." The Defence Ministry condemned the attacks as ‘a breach of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness’, and vowed to reply.

The Taliban protests Pakistan's airstrikes in Afghanistan, calling them violations of sovereignty. The strikes killed civilians, while Pakistan claims they targeted TTP camps

A new set of emails reveals that King Charles III of the British royal family was aware of the “secret deals” of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and David Rowland, reported the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15581065/Email-proves-Charles-warned-brothers-Whistleblower-Palace-Royal-Family-Andrew.html">Daily Mail</a>. Andrew had told Epstein that Rowland was his “trusted money man”. Former Prince Andrew has been accused of passing on potentially confidential and sensitive documents to the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday, February 19, 2026. He was released after 11 hours at the Aylsham Police Station.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the mail obtained by the Daily Mail, a whistleblower on August 16, 2019, alerted King Charles III that the Duke of York's actions suggest that “his Royal Highness considers his relationship with David Rowland more important than that of his family.” The whistleblower further warned David Rowland in another email on September 10, 2019, that he had shared undeniable evidence that proves Rowland's abuse of the Royal family. David Rowland, a “shady” financier once the Conservative Party's major donor, contributing millions before being nominated for party treasurer in 2010. There were evidences of Rowland doing financial favours to Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson- £40,000 to help clear debts and a £1.5million loan for Andrew in 2017.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-israeli-security-nyc-apartment-ehud-barak-1771493888007">Epstein files reveal Israeli officers installed and controlled security equipment in Manhattan apartment</a>The whistleblower further claimed that Rowland ”paid HRH The Duke of York to procure a Luxembourg Banking Licence" for his private bank, Banque Havilland, and included what were claimed to be Andrew’s bank account details. He further cc-ed Clive Alderton, Charles’s private secretary, and Mark Bridges, the late Queen’s solicitor at Farrer &amp; Co.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Mail on Sunday investigation further revealed that Prince Andrew held a 40 per cent stake in a British Virgin Islands-based firm called Inverness Asset Management until March 2019. He would target wealthy clients and the Royal Family to invest in a tax-free Cayman Islands fund. He further allowed Rowland to join on taxpayer-funded trade envoy trips, where Rowland would promote his business between 2001 and 2011. He was further accused of passing on trade information to private associates who sell oil to China, with the hope of making ‘tons of money’ with Epstein.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A new tranche of emails obtained by The Daily Mail suggests that King Charles III was warned in 2019 about Prince Andrew’s alleged financial ties to David Rowland. Andrew was later arrested and released.

A new set of emails reveals that King Charles III of the British royal family was aware of the “secret deals” of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and David Rowland, reported the Daily Mail. Andrew had told Epstein that Rowland was his “trusted money man”. Former Prince Andrew has been accused of passing on potentially confidential and sensitive documents to the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday, February 19, 2026. He was released after 11 hours at the Aylsham Police Station. According to the mail obtained by the Daily Mail, a whistleblower on August 16, 2019, alerted King Charles III that the Duke of York's actions suggest that “his Royal Highness considers his relationship with David Rowland more important than that of his family.” The whistleblower further warned David Rowland in another email on September 10, 2019, that he had shared undeniable evidence that proves Rowland's abuse of the Royal family. David Rowland, a “shady” financier once the Conservative Party's major donor, contributing millions before being nominated for party treasurer in 2010. There were evidences of Rowland doing financial favours to Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson- £40,000 to help clear debts and a £1.5million loan for Andrew in 2017. Also Read: Epstein files reveal Israeli officers installed and controlled security equipment in Manhattan apartment The whistleblower further claimed that Rowland ”paid HRH The Duke of York to procure a Luxembourg Banking Licence" for his private bank, Banque Havilland, and included what were claimed to be Andrew’s bank account details. He further cc-ed Clive Alderton, Charles’s private secretary, and Mark Bridges, the late Queen’s solicitor at Farrer & Co. The Mail on Sunday investigation further revealed that Prince Andrew held a 40 per cent stake in a British Virgin Islands-based firm called Inverness Asset Management until March 2019. He would target wealthy clients and the Royal Family to invest in a tax-free Cayman Islands fund. He further allowed Rowland to join on taxpayer-funded trade envoy trips, where Rowland would promote his business between 2001 and 2011. He was further accused of passing on trade information to private associates who sell oil to China, with the hope of making ‘tons of money’ with Epstein.

A new tranche of emails obtained by The Daily Mail suggests that King Charles III was warned in 2019 about Prince Andrew’s alleged financial ties to David Rowland. Andrew was later arrested and released.

King Charles III was warned about Prince Andrew’s 'secret deals'

Let me ask you something simple. When you go to a shop and the shopkeeper says, “Sorry, the price has gone up because the government added a new tax,” what do you do? You pay more. You have no choice. That is exactly what is happening right now in America — and what happens in America does not just stay in America. It travels. It reaches India. It reaches your life.&nbsp;On Saturday, 21st February, American President Donald Trump announced a brand new 15% import tax on all goods coming into the United States from other countries. Import tax, also called a tariff, is simply extra money that a country charges when goods arrive from outside. Think of it like an entry fee. That extra cost is not eaten by the seller alone. It gets passed on to the buyer — the ordinary American person wondering why the price of their rice cooker or running shoes just went up.&nbsp;This 15% tax actually replaced a 10% tax that Trump had announced just the day before. And that 10% tax itself came because the Supreme Court of America struck down Trump’s earlier, much larger tariff plan. The court said Trump had no legal authority to impose those tariffs using IEEPA — the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. IEEPA is a tool meant for emergencies like blocking money transfers or controlling trade with enemy nations, not for placing import taxes on the whole world. The court cancelled those tariffs.&nbsp;So Trump found another law — Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. Never used before in American history to impose tariffs, this law allows a president to place up to 15% import tax, but only for 150 days, roughly five months. Section 122 was created for situations where America is spending far more on buying goods from other countries than it earns by selling its own — what is called a trade deficit. Trump argues this is exactly the kind of problem this law was made for. Legal experts, however, are not fully convinced. There is a real possibility someone will take this to court too. But for now, the tariff is in place and it is real.&nbsp;In simple numbers — before the Supreme Court’s ruling, America's average import tax was 16%. After the ruling it dropped sharply to 9.1%. Now, with the new 15% tariff, it is expected to settle around 13.7%. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, a study by the Budget Lab at Yale University confirmed this.&nbsp;Now, why should you care? India exports medicines, textiles, software services, gems and engineering goods to America. A 15% tax means Indian companies either absorb the loss or charge more and risk losing customers. Either way, jobs are affected. Salaries are affected. Trade is not a faraway government matter — it is connected to someone’s job, someone’s evening meal.&nbsp;“Wait,” you might ask, “didn’t India just agree to an 18% rate earlier this month?” Yes, we did. But that deal was built on a legal foundation that the Supreme Court just demolished. While the new 15% tax sounds lower on paper, it is actually a trap. It strips away India’s special status and puts us in the same bucket as everyone else, all while hanging a 150-day timer over our heads. In trade, a lower tax with high uncertainty is often worse than a higher tax with a clear future.&nbsp;Not everything is taxed equally. Medicines, important minerals, defence goods, and products from Canada and Mexico under an existing trade agreement are exempt. But for most imports — including cheap goods from Chinese apps like Shein and Temu — the tax applies fully.&nbsp;Earlier, packages worth $800 or less could enter America without any tax. Trump ended this benefit, and the White House confirmed it will not return. Every small package now faces the 15% tariff. The Republican Party has also passed a law to permanently end this system from June 2027.&nbsp;On the ground, The Wall Street Journal noted that January’s inflation report showed prices for home appliances, furniture, and new cars had already gone up. For most of 2025, American companies and buyers paid over 90% of the extra costs themselves. Some companies stopped hiring. But shrimp fishermen in Alabama said tariffs actually helped them compete against cheaper foreign imports. So the story has two sides.&nbsp;My honest opinion? Tariff policy is not a light switch you can flick on and off every few days. Every change creates uncertainty. Uncertainty is itself a cost. And that cost finds its way to ordinary people every single time.&nbsp;Trump’s goal — protecting American industries, reducing dependence on China, bringing back jobs — is not wrong. But changing rates every 48 hours, getting them struck down in court, and finding new laws does not inspire confidence. A country’s trade policy must be stable and legally sound. What we are seeing right now is the opposite of that.&nbsp;And that, my friend, is exactly why you should be paying attention.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Donald Trump’s 15% tariff shake-up creates global trade uncertainty, raising prices, legal doubts, and economic ripple effects reaching India. While the new 15% tax sounds lower on paper, it strips away India’s special status and puts us in the same bucket as everyone else.

Let me ask you something simple. When you go to a shop and the shopkeeper says, “Sorry, the price has gone up because the government added a new tax,” what do you do? You pay more. You have no choice. That is exactly what is happening right now in America — and what happens in America does not just stay in America. It travels. It reaches India. It reaches your life. On Saturday, 21st February, American President Donald Trump announced a brand new 15% import tax on all goods coming into the United States from other countries. Import tax, also called a tariff, is simply extra money that a country charges when goods arrive from outside. Think of it like an entry fee. That extra cost is not eaten by the seller alone. It gets passed on to the buyer — the ordinary American person wondering why the price of their rice cooker or running shoes just went up. This 15% tax actually replaced a 10% tax that Trump had announced just the day before. And that 10% tax itself came because the Supreme Court of America struck down Trump’s earlier, much larger tariff plan. The court said Trump had no legal authority to impose those tariffs using IEEPA — the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. IEEPA is a tool meant for emergencies like blocking money transfers or controlling trade with enemy nations, not for placing import taxes on the whole world. The court cancelled those tariffs. So Trump found another law — Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. Never used before in American history to impose tariffs, this law allows a president to place up to 15% import tax, but only for 150 days, roughly five months. Section 122 was created for situations where America is spending far more on buying goods from other countries than it earns by selling its own — what is called a trade deficit. Trump argues this is exactly the kind of problem this law was made for. Legal experts, however, are not fully convinced. There is a real possibility someone will take this to court too. But for now, the tariff is in place and it is real. In simple numbers — before the Supreme Court’s ruling, America's average import tax was 16%. After the ruling it dropped sharply to 9.1%. Now, with the new 15% tariff, it is expected to settle around 13.7%. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, a study by the Budget Lab at Yale University confirmed this. Now, why should you care? India exports medicines, textiles, software services, gems and engineering goods to America. A 15% tax means Indian companies either absorb the loss or charge more and risk losing customers. Either way, jobs are affected. Salaries are affected. Trade is not a faraway government matter — it is connected to someone’s job, someone’s evening meal. “Wait,” you might ask, “didn’t India just agree to an 18% rate earlier this month?” Yes, we did. But that deal was built on a legal foundation that the Supreme Court just demolished. While the new 15% tax sounds lower on paper, it is actually a trap. It strips away India’s special status and puts us in the same bucket as everyone else, all while hanging a 150-day timer over our heads. In trade, a lower tax with high uncertainty is often worse than a higher tax with a clear future. Not everything is taxed equally. Medicines, important minerals, defence goods, and products from Canada and Mexico under an existing trade agreement are exempt. But for most imports — including cheap goods from Chinese apps like Shein and Temu — the tax applies fully. Earlier, packages worth $800 or less could enter America without any tax. Trump ended this benefit, and the White House confirmed it will not return. Every small package now faces the 15% tariff. The Republican Party has also passed a law to permanently end this system from June 2027. On the ground, The Wall Street Journal noted that January’s inflation report showed prices for home appliances, furniture, and new cars had already gone up. For most of 2025, American companies and buyers paid over 90% of the extra costs themselves. Some companies stopped hiring. But shrimp fishermen in Alabama said tariffs actually helped them compete against cheaper foreign imports. So the story has two sides. My honest opinion? Tariff policy is not a light switch you can flick on and off every few days. Every change creates uncertainty. Uncertainty is itself a cost. And that cost finds its way to ordinary people every single time. Trump’s goal — protecting American industries, reducing dependence on China, bringing back jobs — is not wrong. But changing rates every 48 hours, getting them struck down in court, and finding new laws does not inspire confidence. A country’s trade policy must be stable and legally sound. What we are seeing right now is the opposite of that. And that, my friend, is exactly why you should be paying attention. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Donald Trump’s 15% tariff shake-up creates global trade uncertainty, raising prices, legal doubts, and economic ripple effects reaching India. While the new 15% tax sounds lower on paper, it strips away India’s special status and puts us in the same bucket as everyone else.

The 150-day fuse: Trump’s new plan to tax the world

A Delhi court underlined that national interests and the country's international image cannot be compromised under the guise of protest. It asserted that acts capable of disrupting globally significant events require serious scrutiny and effective investigation.&nbsp;A Judicial Magistrate First Class at Patiala House court made these observations while allowing a five-day police custody of four accused arrested in connection with an incident that took place at Bharat Mandapam during the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi.&nbsp;While granting police custody, the Court held that investigation at this stage required custodial interrogation to analyse electronic devices, examine communication links, trace possible funding sources, and identify other persons allegedly involved.&nbsp;The Court noted that international summits hosted by India involve the participation of foreign dignitaries and represent the nation at a global stage. Any disruption at such venues, it is observed, may have implications extending beyond a local law-and-order issue and could impact diplomatic engagements and national prestige.&nbsp;It underlined that while democratic dissent is protected, any conduct affecting security arrangements or India's standing before foreign delegates assumes greater gravity.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-he-wants-sweeping-tariffs-he-should-go-to-us-congress-neal-katyal-slams-trump-s-new-15-levies-1771757540359"> 'If he wants sweeping tariffs, he should go to US Congress': Neal Katyal slams Trump’s new 15% levies</a>&nbsp;These remarks come after around 10 IYC workers entered Hall Number 5 of Bharat Mandapam on the fifth day of the India AI Impact summit 2026. They had pre-registered online and entered using QR codes. Once inside, they removed their shirts to reveal or hold up T-shirts with images of PM Modi and US President Trump and raised controversial slogans.&nbsp;It further observed that although citizens possess the constitutional right to freedom of speech and peaceful protest, such rights are subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of sovereignty, public order, and security of the State.&nbsp;Protest, the Court said, cannot be permitted in a manner that interferes with official duties or jeopardises security arrangements during sensitive international events.

The Court underlined that while democratic dissent is protected, any conduct affecting security arrangements or India's standing before foreign delegates assumes greater gravity.

A Delhi court underlined that national interests and the country's international image cannot be compromised under the guise of protest. It asserted that acts capable of disrupting globally significant events require serious scrutiny and effective investigation. A Judicial Magistrate First Class at Patiala House court made these observations while allowing a five-day police custody of four accused arrested in connection with an incident that took place at Bharat Mandapam during the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi. While granting police custody, the Court held that investigation at this stage required custodial interrogation to analyse electronic devices, examine communication links, trace possible funding sources, and identify other persons allegedly involved. The Court noted that international summits hosted by India involve the participation of foreign dignitaries and represent the nation at a global stage. Any disruption at such venues, it is observed, may have implications extending beyond a local law-and-order issue and could impact diplomatic engagements and national prestige. It underlined that while democratic dissent is protected, any conduct affecting security arrangements or India's standing before foreign delegates assumes greater gravity. Also Read: 'If he wants sweeping tariffs, he should go to US Congress': Neal Katyal slams Trump’s new 15% levies These remarks come after around 10 IYC workers entered Hall Number 5 of Bharat Mandapam on the fifth day of the India AI Impact summit 2026. They had pre-registered online and entered using QR codes. Once inside, they removed their shirts to reveal or hold up T-shirts with images of PM Modi and US President Trump and raised controversial slogans. It further observed that although citizens possess the constitutional right to freedom of speech and peaceful protest, such rights are subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of sovereignty, public order, and security of the State. Protest, the Court said, cannot be permitted in a manner that interferes with official duties or jeopardises security arrangements during sensitive international events.

The Court underlined that while democratic dissent is protected, any conduct affecting security arrangements or India's standing before foreign delegates assumes greater gravity.

National interest cannot be compromised for protests: Delhi Court on AI Summit protest

A recent survey by ABC News, The Washington Post, and Ipsos suggests widespread dissatisfaction with how Donald Trump is managing the country, particularly on key kitchen-table concerns such as rising costs, employment, and America’s role abroad. The poll was carried out using Ipsos’ KnowledgePanel shortly before the Supreme Court struck down Trump’s earlier global tariff measures. Roughly two-thirds of respondents said they disapprove of Trump’s handling of inflation. Six in ten expressed opposition to his approach to import tariffs, while 62% criticised his management of foreign affairs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Immigration policy drew disapproval from 58% of those surveyed, and 57% said the broader economy could be handled more effectively. Across these major issues, the president failed to secure majority approval. However, dissatisfaction extends beyond the White House. When participants were asked which political group they trust most to address the nation’s biggest challenges, opinions were nearly evenly divided: 33% chose Trump, 31% preferred Democrats in Congress, and another 31% selected neither option. The findings indicate frustration with both political camps.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-breaks-in-kishtwar-sources-say-one-jem-pak-terrorist-killed-in-the-operation-1771741821391">Two terrorists killed in J&amp;K’s Kishtwar; one a top commander of Jaish-e-Mohammad</a>&nbsp;Political affiliation played a significant role in shaping responses. Democrats and independents largely rated Trump negatively across nearly every issue. Among Republicans, opinions were mixed. Strong supporters of the Make America Great Again movement tended to back the president’s performance, while Republicans who do not align with MAGA were more skeptical, particularly regarding inflation and foreign policy. Trump’s overall disapproval rating reached about 60%, marking one of the highest levels recorded during his second term and resembling the figures seen at the conclusion of his presidency in 2021.&nbsp;Economic sentiment remains subdued. Nearly half of Americans believe conditions have deteriorated since Trump returned to office, while only about 30% think the economy has improved. Just 22% reported being financially better off, with most saying their personal situation has either stagnated or worsened. Concerns also surfaced regarding the president’s capability to serve. More than half of the respondents questioned his mental acuity, and around half doubted his physical fitness for office. While most Republicans dismissed these concerns, Democrats and independents expressed strong agreement.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tehran-university-protests-anti-govt-slogans-raised-in-universities-in-tehran-1771760689215/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tehran-university-protests-anti-govt-slogans-raised-in-universities-in-tehran-1771760689215/embed</a>&nbsp;Questions about integrity further cloud the picture. Approximately seven in ten Americans said they do not view Trump as honest or trustworthy. Many respondents felt he prioritizes personal benefit and exceeds his constitutional authority.On policy specifics, a majority opposed scaling back recommended childhood vaccines and rejected the idea of deploying the US military to impose changes abroad. Many also criticized the administration’s transparency on sensitive matters, including documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;The survey, conducted among more than 2,500 adults nationwide, reflects a politically divided electorate marked by skepticism toward both major parties and growing unease over the country’s direction.

Most Americans disapprove of Donald Trump’s performance in running country, new poll shows

A recent survey by ABC News, The Washington Post, and Ipsos suggests widespread dissatisfaction with how Donald Trump is managing the country, particularly on key kitchen-table concerns such as rising costs, employment, and America’s role abroad. The poll was carried out using Ipsos’ KnowledgePanel shortly before the Supreme Court struck down Trump’s earlier global tariff measures. Roughly two-thirds of respondents said they disapprove of Trump’s handling of inflation. Six in ten expressed opposition to his approach to import tariffs, while 62% criticised his management of foreign affairs. Immigration policy drew disapproval from 58% of those surveyed, and 57% said the broader economy could be handled more effectively. Across these major issues, the president failed to secure majority approval. However, dissatisfaction extends beyond the White House. When participants were asked which political group they trust most to address the nation’s biggest challenges, opinions were nearly evenly divided: 33% chose Trump, 31% preferred Democrats in Congress, and another 31% selected neither option. The findings indicate frustration with both political camps. Also Read: Two terrorists killed in J&K’s Kishtwar; one a top commander of Jaish-e-Mohammad Political affiliation played a significant role in shaping responses. Democrats and independents largely rated Trump negatively across nearly every issue. Among Republicans, opinions were mixed. Strong supporters of the Make America Great Again movement tended to back the president’s performance, while Republicans who do not align with MAGA were more skeptical, particularly regarding inflation and foreign policy. Trump’s overall disapproval rating reached about 60%, marking one of the highest levels recorded during his second term and resembling the figures seen at the conclusion of his presidency in 2021. Economic sentiment remains subdued. Nearly half of Americans believe conditions have deteriorated since Trump returned to office, while only about 30% think the economy has improved. Just 22% reported being financially better off, with most saying their personal situation has either stagnated or worsened. Concerns also surfaced regarding the president’s capability to serve. More than half of the respondents questioned his mental acuity, and around half doubted his physical fitness for office. While most Republicans dismissed these concerns, Democrats and independents expressed strong agreement. https://www.wionews.com/videos/tehran-university-protests-anti-govt-slogans-raised-in-universities-in-tehran-1771760689215/embed Questions about integrity further cloud the picture. Approximately seven in ten Americans said they do not view Trump as honest or trustworthy. Many respondents felt he prioritizes personal benefit and exceeds his constitutional authority. On policy specifics, a majority opposed scaling back recommended childhood vaccines and rejected the idea of deploying the US military to impose changes abroad. Many also criticized the administration’s transparency on sensitive matters, including documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. The survey, conducted among more than 2,500 adults nationwide, reflects a politically divided electorate marked by skepticism toward both major parties and growing unease over the country’s direction.

New poll finds most Americans disapprove of US President Donald Trump’s handling of inflation, economy, and foreign policy, with trust in both parties low

Indian-origin lawyer, Neal Katyal, who fought a court battle against Donald Trump's sweeping global tariffs, has sharply criticised the US president's decision to impose a new 15 per cent tariffs on countries worldwide, saying he cannot bypass Congress for such measures. Katyal stated that if Trump believes the tariffs are a "good idea," he should follow the Constitution.&nbsp;Katyal's reaction comes after the US Supreme Court on Friday struck down Trump's global tariffs, which he had imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) in a 6-3 ruling, saying it "does not authorise the President to impose tariffs."Soon after the apex court decision, Trump vowed to use other methods to reinstate sweeping tariffs that the Supreme Court struck down. “Other alternatives will now be used to replace the ones that the court incorrectly rejected,” adding that these options could also bring in more revenue.&nbsp;In a press conference, he announced a new 10 per cent global tariff on US trade partners, invoking Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. Trump raised the tariffs to 15 per cent a day after.&nbsp;Katyal, who played a key role in getting Trump's earlier tariffs quashed by the Supreme Court, questioned the legal basis for the new duties levied under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. He underlined that the Department of Justice (DOJ) had previously told the court that Section 122 can not be invoked in issues such as trade deficits, which are different from balance-of-payment deficits.&nbsp;In a post on X, he wrote, "Seems hard for the President to rely on the 15 percent statute (sec 122) when his DOJ in our case told the Court the opposite: Nor does [122] have any obvious application here, where the concerns the President identified in declaring an emergency arise from trade deficits, which are conceptually distinct from balance-of-payments deficits."&nbsp;Katyal added, “If he wants sweeping tariffs, he should do the American thing and go to Congress. If his tariffs are such a good idea, he should have no problem persuading Congress. That's what our Constitution requires.”

Katyal, who played a key role in getting Trump's earlier tariffs quashed by the Supreme Court, questioned the legal basis for the new duties levied under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Indian-origin lawyer, Neal Katyal, who fought a court battle against Donald Trump's sweeping global tariffs, has sharply criticised the US president's decision to impose a new 15 per cent tariffs on countries worldwide, saying he cannot bypass Congress for such measures. Katyal stated that if Trump believes the tariffs are a "good idea," he should follow the Constitution. Katyal's reaction comes after the US Supreme Court on Friday struck down Trump's global tariffs, which he had imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) in a 6-3 ruling, saying it "does not authorise the President to impose tariffs." Soon after the apex court decision, Trump vowed to use other methods to reinstate sweeping tariffs that the Supreme Court struck down. “Other alternatives will now be used to replace the ones that the court incorrectly rejected,” adding that these options could also bring in more revenue. In a press conference, he announced a new 10 per cent global tariff on US trade partners, invoking Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. Trump raised the tariffs to 15 per cent a day after. Katyal, who played a key role in getting Trump's earlier tariffs quashed by the Supreme Court, questioned the legal basis for the new duties levied under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. He underlined that the Department of Justice (DOJ) had previously told the court that Section 122 can not be invoked in issues such as trade deficits, which are different from balance-of-payment deficits. In a post on X, he wrote, "Seems hard for the President to rely on the 15 percent statute (sec 122) when his DOJ in our case told the Court the opposite: Nor does [122] have any obvious application here, where the concerns the President identified in declaring an emergency arise from trade deficits, which are conceptually distinct from balance-of-payments deficits." Katyal added, “If he wants sweeping tariffs, he should do the American thing and go to Congress. If his tariffs are such a good idea, he should have no problem persuading Congress. That's what our Constitution requires.”

Katyal, who played a key role in getting Trump's earlier tariffs quashed by the Supreme Court, questioned the legal basis for the new duties levied under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.

'If he wants sweeping tariffs, he should go to US Congress': Neal Katyal slams Trump’s new 15% levies

Thousands marched in Lyon demanding justice for slain activist Quentin Deranque. Heavy security was deployed as tensions rose. Police has arrested six suspects as the investigation continues.

In Pics | France on edge as thousands protest far-right activist’s killing in Lyon

Early Sunday morning (February 22), Lviv, a city in western Ukraine, was hit by a series of deadly explosions that authorities are investigating as a “terrorist attack.” The blasts occurred after police responded to an emergency call about an intrusion at a store near the city center. The first explosion took place soon after the police arrived, followed by a second blast when additional officers responded. The attack resulted in the tragic death of 23-year-old policewoman Viktoria Shpylka, who was remembered by her colleagues for her kind and supportive nature.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shpylka had married a fellow officer just a year earlier. Along with her, around two dozen people, including officers and civilians, were injured, and both a patrol car and a civilian vehicle were damaged. Lviv's regional prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation, labeling the incident a “terrorist act.” While the circumstances remain unclear, Ukrainian authorities are working to identify the perpetrators. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that a suspect connected to the attack had been detained.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-suspends-all-flights-to-new-york-newark-due-to-severe-winter-storm-1771751554382">Air India suspends all flights to New York, Newark due to severe winter storm</a>&nbsp;This attack on Lviv, far from the front lines, highlights the ongoing danger posed by Russian aggression. The city had previously been considered a relatively safe refuge for displaced Ukrainians, but recent events have shown that no part of the country is immune to violence. In addition to the Lviv attack, Zelensky also reported that Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone assaults in weeks, targeting cities across Ukraine, including Kyiv, Sumy, and Odesa. The strikes focused on critical infrastructure, especially Ukraine’s energy sector. At least one person was killed in Kyiv, with several others injured.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-winter-storm-emergency-blizzard-warnings-heavy-snow-and-husty-winds-1771747171098/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-winter-storm-emergency-blizzard-warnings-heavy-snow-and-husty-winds-1771747171098/embed</a>&nbsp;Zelensky noted that Russia had launched more than 1,300 drones and over 1,400 bombs in just a week, emphasizing the need for more advanced defense systems. In one symbolic attack, a Russian missile hit a Mondelez factory in northern Ukraine, damaging a civilian facility that employs hundreds of Ukrainians.

Ukrainian authorities investigate deadly blasts in Western Ukraine as 'terrorist attack'

Early Sunday morning (February 22), Lviv, a city in western Ukraine, was hit by a series of deadly explosions that authorities are investigating as a “terrorist attack.” The blasts occurred after police responded to an emergency call about an intrusion at a store near the city center. The first explosion took place soon after the police arrived, followed by a second blast when additional officers responded. The attack resulted in the tragic death of 23-year-old policewoman Viktoria Shpylka, who was remembered by her colleagues for her kind and supportive nature. Shpylka had married a fellow officer just a year earlier. Along with her, around two dozen people, including officers and civilians, were injured, and both a patrol car and a civilian vehicle were damaged. Lviv's regional prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation, labeling the incident a “terrorist act.” While the circumstances remain unclear, Ukrainian authorities are working to identify the perpetrators. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that a suspect connected to the attack had been detained. Also Read: Air India suspends all flights to New York, Newark due to severe winter storm This attack on Lviv, far from the front lines, highlights the ongoing danger posed by Russian aggression. The city had previously been considered a relatively safe refuge for displaced Ukrainians, but recent events have shown that no part of the country is immune to violence. In addition to the Lviv attack, Zelensky also reported that Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone assaults in weeks, targeting cities across Ukraine, including Kyiv, Sumy, and Odesa. The strikes focused on critical infrastructure, especially Ukraine’s energy sector. At least one person was killed in Kyiv, with several others injured. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-winter-storm-emergency-blizzard-warnings-heavy-snow-and-husty-winds-1771747171098/embed Zelensky noted that Russia had launched more than 1,300 drones and over 1,400 bombs in just a week, emphasizing the need for more advanced defense systems. In one symbolic attack, a Russian missile hit a Mondelez factory in northern Ukraine, damaging a civilian facility that employs hundreds of Ukrainians.

A terrorist attack in Lviv, Ukraine, killed a policewoman and injured dozens. Meanwhile, Russia’s missile and drone assault targeted cities and civilian infrastructure

India and the US have decided to reschedule the proposed high-level meeting of their chief trade negotiators in Washington to finalise the text of the trade agreement. The three-day meeting was scheduled to start on February 23 in the US. Joint Secretary in the Commerce Ministry, Darpan Jain, was the Chief negotiator of the meeting. Both nations suggested that they need additional time to evaluate the legal and economic implications of a US Supreme Court order.&nbsp;"With regards to the visit of the Indian team of negotiators to the US for the India-US trade deal, the two sides are of the view that the proposed visit of the Indian Chief Negotiator and the team be scheduled after each side has had the time to evaluate the latest developments and their implications. The meeting will be rescheduled at a mutually convenient date," said commerce ministry sources.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tejas-light-combat-aircraft-crash-indian-air-force-mk1a-delay-1771751500499">Third Tejas LCA crash: Aircraft damaged, pilot safe after landing incident</a>&nbsp;The US Supreme Court, on a 6-3 ruling under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977, suggested that the US President has exceeded his authority in imposing sweeping tariffs on his trade partners and called it illegal.&nbsp;Following the SC ruling, US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced increased tariffs on all countries to 15 per cent from 10 per cent, announced a day earlier. IUS last year decided to move away from the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rate framework to the reciprocal tariff framework. The US then imposed a 25 per cent tariff in August 2025, and then it further added 25 per cent more on the pretext of purchasing Russian crude. India and the US, earlier this month, had agreed on an interim trade deal reducing the reciprocal tariff from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. Now, if this 15 per cent is an additional surcharge which will be above and over the MFN rate or import duties in the US of 3.5 per cent for 150 days, unless the congress decides to extend it.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and the US have decided to reschedule trade talks after the US Supreme Court ruled against Trump’s sweeping tariffs, prompting fresh legal and economic review.

India and the US have decided to reschedule the proposed high-level meeting of their chief trade negotiators in Washington to finalise the text of the trade agreement. The three-day meeting was scheduled to start on February 23 in the US. Joint Secretary in the Commerce Ministry, Darpan Jain, was the Chief negotiator of the meeting. Both nations suggested that they need additional time to evaluate the legal and economic implications of a US Supreme Court order. "With regards to the visit of the Indian team of negotiators to the US for the India-US trade deal, the two sides are of the view that the proposed visit of the Indian Chief Negotiator and the team be scheduled after each side has had the time to evaluate the latest developments and their implications. The meeting will be rescheduled at a mutually convenient date," said commerce ministry sources. Also Read: Third Tejas LCA crash: Aircraft damaged, pilot safe after landing incident The US Supreme Court, on a 6-3 ruling under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977, suggested that the US President has exceeded his authority in imposing sweeping tariffs on his trade partners and called it illegal. Following the SC ruling, US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced increased tariffs on all countries to 15 per cent from 10 per cent, announced a day earlier. IUS last year decided to move away from the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rate framework to the reciprocal tariff framework. The US then imposed a 25 per cent tariff in August 2025, and then it further added 25 per cent more on the pretext of purchasing Russian crude. India and the US, earlier this month, had agreed on an interim trade deal reducing the reciprocal tariff from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. Now, if this 15 per cent is an additional surcharge which will be above and over the MFN rate or import duties in the US of 3.5 per cent for 150 days, unless the congress decides to extend it.

India and the US have decided to reschedule trade talks after the US Supreme Court ruled against Trump’s sweeping tariffs, prompting fresh legal and economic review.

India-US trade talks rescheduled after US Supreme Court ruling on Trump tariffs

Air India has announced the cancellation of all flights to and from New York and Newark on Monday (February 23), in response to a severe winter storm predicted to impact the northeastern United States. The airline issued a statement warning passengers that the storm, which is expected to bring heavy snow and extreme weather conditions, will likely cause significant disruptions to flight schedules.&nbsp;The forecast predicts that the storm will affect New York, New Jersey, and the broader US East Coast on February 22 and 23. The airline’s decision comes as weather experts are predicting up to 2 feet (61 cm) of snow in several areas, including New York City and parts of New Jersey. The snow will be accompanied by strong winds, making travel across the region nearly impossible. In light of the storm's intensity, Air India has made the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew a top priority. The airline has assured affected travelers that its dedicated teams will be available to assist with rebooking and other services.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-yogi-adityanath-flag-off-namo-bharat-rrts-and-meerut-metro-project-will-enhance-regional-connectivity-1771745732094">WATCH | PM Modi flags off India's fastest metro in Meerut; project will enhance regional connectivity</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TravelAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TravelAdvisory</a> A severe winter storm with heavy snow is forecast for New York, New Jersey and adjoining areas in the US East Coast on 22 and 23 February which is likely to have a significant impact on flight operations. In view of the safety, well-being and convenience of our…&mdash; Air India (@airindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindia/status/2025468326529696123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>‘Super Bomb’ winter storm strikes New York, New Jersey</h2>The US National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings for parts of the East Coast, from Maryland to Massachusetts. Cities such as New York City, Long Island, and Boston are expected to experience near-impossible travel conditions. Officials warned that the storm could intensify rapidly, with winds reaching dangerous levels and potentially causing massive power outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-send-hospital-ship-to-greenland-trump-intensifies-push-1771746263087/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-send-hospital-ship-to-greenland-trump-intensifies-push-1771746263087/embed</a>&nbsp;New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani advised residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, cautioning that this storm could be even more hazardous than the one that hit the region in late January. With over 1,000 flights already canceled and more disruptions anticipated, the storm is set to severely impact the region’s infrastructure for the coming days.

Air India suspends all flights to New York, Newark due to severe winter storm

Air India has announced the cancellation of all flights to and from New York and Newark on Monday (February 23), in response to a severe winter storm predicted to impact the northeastern United States. The airline issued a statement warning passengers that the storm, which is expected to bring heavy snow and extreme weather conditions, will likely cause significant disruptions to flight schedules. The forecast predicts that the storm will affect New York, New Jersey, and the broader US East Coast on February 22 and 23. The airline’s decision comes as weather experts are predicting up to 2 feet (61 cm) of snow in several areas, including New York City and parts of New Jersey. The snow will be accompanied by strong winds, making travel across the region nearly impossible. In light of the storm's intensity, Air India has made the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew a top priority. The airline has assured affected travelers that its dedicated teams will be available to assist with rebooking and other services. Also Read: WATCH | PM Modi flags off India's fastest metro in Meerut; project will enhance regional connectivity

Air India has canceled all flights to and from New York and Newark scheduled for February 23 due to a severe winter storm and snow warnings in the US

Republican senator Lindsey Graham's latest statement has exposed the disagreements within US President Donald Trump's team over the issue of striking Iran. The South Carolina Republican urged Trump to to go ahead with military action against Iran. He said that Trump should not let the “evil go unchecked.” This comes amid warning against his advisers counselling restraint amid ongoing nuclear talks. "I understand concerns about major military operations in the Middle East, given past entanglements. However, the voices who counsel against getting entangled seem to ignore the consequences of letting evil go unchecked,” Graham reportedly told Axios.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/will-trump-attack-iran-in-first-week-of-march-here-s-what-we-know-1771727917516">Will Trump attack Iran in first week of March? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;Last week, Graham said that if Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stays in power, it is a big win for Tehran. His remarks suggested that America is planning a military action against Iran within “weeks, not months.” He said that the “risk of regime change is real." "There are unknowns. But let me just say this, I’m willing to take that risk. I think the Iranian people have the potential to be a great ally of the United States, Israel and the region,” Graham said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-why-haven-t-they-surrendered-trump-curious-on-iran-s-position-amid-us-strike-threats-1771738699392">‘Why haven’t they surrendered?’ Trump ‘curious’ on Iran’s position amid US strike threats</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier was sighted in the waters off Gibraltar near northern Africa, heading to West Asia. USS Abraham Lincoln is currently positioned in the Arabian Sea, approximately 150 to 300 miles off the coast of Oman. US has evacuated hundreds of troops from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, according to a report by The New York Times. Iran and US tensions are at its peak with several reports signalling that US President Donald Trump may order a limited strike on Iran amid Tehran's failure to strike a nuclear deal with Washington.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-preparing-for-war-with-israel-and-us-irgc-takes-over-hezbollah-amid-escalating-tensions-what-this-means-1771746085884">Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions</a>&nbsp;Iran has warned of regional war if it is struck. It has also ruled out giving up uranium enrichment and said that US has not demanded zero enrichment. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have taken charge of Hezbollah amid heightened tensions, according to Saudi outlet Al-Arabiya, in what is being seen as preparation of war. &nbsp;The Iranian officers are reportedly briefing Hezbollah operatives across Lebanon. The report added that IRGC officers also met Hezbollah’s missile unit at a site in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley that was bombed by Israel overnight.

Trump ally Lindsey Graham’s push for military action against Iran highlights divisions within Trump’s camp as tensions rise. With US forces repositioning and nuclear talks faltering, fears of a possible strike grow amid warnings from Tehran of a wider regional conflict.

Republican senator Lindsey Graham's latest statement has exposed the disagreements within US President Donald Trump's team over the issue of striking Iran. The South Carolina Republican urged Trump to to go ahead with military action against Iran. He said that Trump should not let the “evil go unchecked.” This comes amid warning against his advisers counselling restraint amid ongoing nuclear talks. "I understand concerns about major military operations in the Middle East, given past entanglements. However, the voices who counsel against getting entangled seem to ignore the consequences of letting evil go unchecked,” Graham reportedly told Axios. Also Read: Will Trump attack Iran in first week of March? Here's what we know Last week, Graham said that if Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stays in power, it is a big win for Tehran. His remarks suggested that America is planning a military action against Iran within “weeks, not months.” He said that the “risk of regime change is real." "There are unknowns. But let me just say this, I’m willing to take that risk. I think the Iranian people have the potential to be a great ally of the United States, Israel and the region,” Graham said. Also Read: ‘Why haven’t they surrendered?’ Trump ‘curious’ on Iran’s position amid US strike threats Meanwhile, USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier was sighted in the waters off Gibraltar near northern Africa, heading to West Asia. USS Abraham Lincoln is currently positioned in the Arabian Sea, approximately 150 to 300 miles off the coast of Oman. US has evacuated hundreds of troops from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, according to a report by The New York Times. Iran and US tensions are at its peak with several reports signalling that US President Donald Trump may order a limited strike on Iran amid Tehran's failure to strike a nuclear deal with Washington. Also Read: Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions Iran has warned of regional war if it is struck. It has also ruled out giving up uranium enrichment and said that US has not demanded zero enrichment. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have taken charge of Hezbollah amid heightened tensions, according to Saudi outlet Al-Arabiya, in what is being seen as preparation of war. The Iranian officers are reportedly briefing Hezbollah operatives across Lebanon. The report added that IRGC officers also met Hezbollah’s missile unit at a site in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley that was bombed by Israel overnight.

Trump ally Lindsey Graham’s push for military action against Iran highlights divisions within Trump’s camp as tensions rise. With US forces repositioning and nuclear talks faltering, fears of a possible strike grow amid warnings from Tehran of a wider regional conflict.

‘Don’t let evil go unchecked...': Is disagreement within Trump's team reason for delay in striking Iran?

In the past few months, Reza Pahlavi II has emerged from relative political obscurity and publicly called for regime change in Iran. Emboldened by the Trump administration's pressure tactics, the US military build-up in the Middle East, and ongoing anti-regime protests, the exiled crown prince of the former Shah regime has been making all the right noises about a possible return to his home country to lead a transition. But can he really run Iran if the regime of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ousted by the US through force? What kind of domestic support does he have? Here is a deep dive:<h2>Difficult to assess Pahlavi's popularity</h2>The Islamic Republic has a track record of arresting and punishing supporters of the Shah’s erstwhile regime. This makes it very difficult to gauge how much support monarchists currently enjoy inside Iran. Some online polling, which is often anonymous and relies on VPNs or the dark web, may not be entirely accurate, as only internet-savvy, urban, or more educated individuals are likely to have responded. One of the most cited independent surveys comes from GAMAAN (Group for Analysing and Measuring Attitudes in Iran). The Netherlands-based non-profit organisation uses anonymous online polling.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/about-200-000-gather-as-iran-s-exiled-prince-reza-pahlavi-urges-us-action-at-munich-rally-1771092627847">Who is Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled prince whose call is fuelling anti-Khamenei protests?</a> A June 2024 GAMAAN survey with over 77,000 respondents inside Iran, representing the literate adult population, showed that Reza Pahlavi was the most popular opposition figure. However, even in that survey, only 31 per cent chose him, either as their first or second most preferred leader.According to the survey, support for Pahlavi was higher among men (36 per cent), older respondents (34 per cent among those aged over 50), and less-educated groups (33 per cent). There were also regional differences, with the highest levels of support coming from Gilan (42.5 per cent), Alborz (40 per cent), and North Khorasan (38 per cent) provinces.Overall, the polling suggests that roughly one-third of respondents support Pahlavi.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-khamenei-s-sons-take-charge-if-iran-s-supreme-leader-is-forced-to-exit-who-are-they-and-what-do-reports-say-iran-us-tensions-news-1769414466602">Will Khamenei’s sons take charge if Iran’s Supreme Leader is forced to exit? Who are they and what do reports say?</a><h2>Is there nostalgia for pre-revolutionary Iran?</h2>Reza Pahlavi gained some visibility during the anti-hijab protests of 2022–2023 sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death. During the 2025–2026 waves of protests linked to economic crises, currency depreciation, and regional conflicts, Pahlavi gained further prominence by openly calling for strikes, unity, and regime change. Slogans praising the Pahlavi era were heard during some demonstrations.Pahlavi has positioned himself as a unifying transitional figure for democracy and does not appear to be insisting on the restoration of the monarchy.Some recent protests have included chants expressing pro-monarchy or nationalist sentiments, such as “Reza Shah, bless your soul”.But it would be wrong to assume that the younger generation, which has been at the forefront of many protests, is longing for the Shah dynasty, which they have never experienced. Those most likely to feel nostalgic for the pre-1979 era would be individuals who were young at the time of the revolution and are now in their fifties or sixties.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/reza-pahlavi-urges-trump-to-ditch-iran-talks-as-us-envoys-calls-nuclear-deal-difficult-to-impossible-what-s-next-1771139106494">Reza Pahlavi urges Trump to ditch Iran talks as US envoys calls nuclear deal 'difficult to impossible': What's next?</a><h2>How popular is Reza Pahlavi inside Iran?</h2>Based on available polling data, he is among the most prominent anti-regime figures, but he does not enjoy majority, or universal, support. Most of his supporters belong to secular, nationalist, and older segments of the population.His popularity appears lower among younger people and ethnic minorities such as Kurds, Baluch, and Azeris. Some women and those who favour republican or decentralised political models are also less enthusiastic about Pahlavi.<h2>The disconnect: Pahlavi has lived his entire adult life outside Iran</h2>Since around the age of 18, Reza Pahlavi has lived outside Iran — initially for pilot training and then in exile following the 1979 revolution that ousted his father's dynasty.This has limited his ability to build on-the-ground organisational networks. There are no well-established grassroots structures that would make him an obvious choice in the event of regime change. Some critics view him as opportunistic or overly aligned with Western interests.Reza Pahlavi has been perceived as pro-US, with recent examples including his strong praise for President Donald Trump’s threats to attack Iran. His meetings with Israeli leaders and US conservative figures have also been criticised in certain quarters.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-iran-regime-protests-reza-pahlavi-claims-role-in-iran-s-democratic-transition-1771127053913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-iran-regime-protests-reza-pahlavi-claims-role-in-iran-s-democratic-transition-1771127053913/embed</a><h2>Regime change in Iran would not be smooth</h2>Any collapse of the regime would likely trigger a domino effect of events: mass protests, internal instability, external pressure, or military defections. Opposition groups might struggle to unite immediately. External actors such as the US could play a role in shaping a new government if the current system were completely dismantled.Pahlavi has cultivated an image as a potential transitional leader, frequently emphasising secular democracy, free elections, and a framework of “national cooperation”. He has also engaged in post-Islamic Republic planning initiatives, including the 2025 Iran Prosperity Project.However, an important question remains: is most of his support largely symbolic, amplified by diaspora communities and Western media?He might be able to secure certain advantages, such as international recognition or sanctions relief — but at what cost?Pahlavi could serve as a unifying figure in the event of a power vacuum. By his own statements, he is not seeking personal rule. He could potentially act as a ceremonial or interim leader and facilitate a transition to a non-Islamist political system.<h2>The odds against Pahlavi becoming Iran’s ruler</h2>Pahlavi does not appear to have a formal domestic political network or a ready pool of officials capable of governing a future regime — or at least none have been publicly identified.He currently lacks military backing or a loyal institutional base. Obviously, he has no administrative experience inside Iran.Iranian opposition groups remain deeply divided, with monarchists, republicans, leftists, ethnic activists, and women’s rights groups each pursuing different agendas. The restoration of the monarchy does not appear to be widely supported, with only around 20–25 per cent explicitly favouring it.Pahlavi’s perceived closeness to pro-Israel or Western conservative circles could alienate segments of society wary of foreign influence.As mentioned, sudden ouster of the Islamist regime could lead to a fragmented transition. In such circumstances, power might be more likely to fall into the hands of military figures, clerical authorities, or even armed groups formed by former troops and their chiefs.An exile such as Pahlavi may not command the same level of institutional leverage — unless a US administration were to actively install him with the backing of American military, intelligence, and bureaucratic structures.In short, while Reza Pahlavi has meaningful support as a symbol of change and could play a role in a democratic transition, actually governing Iran in the long term would present significant challenges.As a visible figure in the West, he might be well-placed to facilitate elections or national reconciliation efforts.&nbsp;However, running Iran would require broader domestic consensus, robust organisational capacity, and the ability to overcome deep societal divisions.It remains unclear whether these conditions would be achievable in a post-Islamic Republic scenario. He may ultimately prove more viable as a unifying figurehead than as a guaranteed ruler.

Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent opposition figure amid calls for regime change in Iran and possible US military action. But his domestic support is limited. In case of a forced ouster of the Islamic Republic regime, will deep divisions hamper his ability to be the leader or ruler?

In the past few months, Reza Pahlavi II has emerged from relative political obscurity and publicly called for regime change in Iran. Emboldened by the Trump administration's pressure tactics, the US military build-up in the Middle East, and ongoing anti-regime protests, the exiled crown prince of the former Shah regime has been making all the right noises about a possible return to his home country to lead a transition. But can he really run Iran if the regime of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ousted by the US through force? What kind of domestic support does he have? Here is a deep dive: Difficult to assess Pahlavi's popularity The Islamic Republic has a track record of arresting and punishing supporters of the Shah’s erstwhile regime. This makes it very difficult to gauge how much support monarchists currently enjoy inside Iran. Some online polling, which is often anonymous and relies on VPNs or the dark web, may not be entirely accurate, as only internet-savvy, urban, or more educated individuals are likely to have responded. One of the most cited independent surveys comes from GAMAAN (Group for Analysing and Measuring Attitudes in Iran). The Netherlands-based non-profit organisation uses anonymous online polling. Also read: Who is Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled prince whose call is fuelling anti-Khamenei protests? A June 2024 GAMAAN survey with over 77,000 respondents inside Iran, representing the literate adult population, showed that Reza Pahlavi was the most popular opposition figure. However, even in that survey, only 31 per cent chose him, either as their first or second most preferred leader. According to the survey, support for Pahlavi was higher among men (36 per cent), older respondents (34 per cent among those aged over 50), and less-educated groups (33 per cent). There were also regional differences, with the highest levels of support coming from Gilan (42.5 per cent), Alborz (40 per cent), and North Khorasan (38 per cent) provinces. Overall, the polling suggests that roughly one-third of respondents support Pahlavi. Also read: Will Khamenei’s sons take charge if Iran’s Supreme Leader is forced to exit? Who are they and what do reports say? Is there nostalgia for pre-revolutionary Iran? Reza Pahlavi gained some visibility during the anti-hijab protests of 2022–2023 sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death. During the 2025–2026 waves of protests linked to economic crises, currency depreciation, and regional conflicts, Pahlavi gained further prominence by openly calling for strikes, unity, and regime change. Slogans praising the Pahlavi era were heard during some demonstrations. Pahlavi has positioned himself as a unifying transitional figure for democracy and does not appear to be insisting on the restoration of the monarchy. Some recent protests have included chants expressing pro-monarchy or nationalist sentiments, such as “Reza Shah, bless your soul”. But it would be wrong to assume that the younger generation, which has been at the forefront of many protests, is longing for the Shah dynasty, which they have never experienced. Those most likely to feel nostalgic for the pre-1979 era would be individuals who were young at the time of the revolution and are now in their fifties or sixties. Also read: Reza Pahlavi urges Trump to ditch Iran talks as US envoys calls nuclear deal 'difficult to impossible': What's next? How popular is Reza Pahlavi inside Iran? Based on available polling data, he is among the most prominent anti-regime figures, but he does not enjoy majority, or universal, support. Most of his supporters belong to secular, nationalist, and older segments of the population. His popularity appears lower among younger people and ethnic minorities such as Kurds, Baluch, and Azeris. Some women and those who favour republican or decentralised political models are also less enthusiastic about Pahlavi. The disconnect: Pahlavi has lived his entire adult life outside Iran Since around the age of 18, Reza Pahlavi has lived outside Iran — initially for pilot training and then in exile following the 1979 revolution that ousted his father's dynasty. This has limited his ability to build on-the-ground organisational networks. There are no well-established grassroots structures that would make him an obvious choice in the event of regime change. Some critics view him as opportunistic or overly aligned with Western interests. Reza Pahlavi has been perceived as pro-US, with recent examples including his strong praise for President Donald Trump’s threats to attack Iran. His meetings with Israeli leaders and US conservative figures have also been criticised in certain quarters. https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-iran-regime-protests-reza-pahlavi-claims-role-in-iran-s-democratic-transition-1771127053913/embed Regime change in Iran would not be smooth Any collapse of the regime would likely trigger a domino effect of events: mass protests, internal instability, external pressure, or military defections. Opposition groups might struggle to unite immediately. External actors such as the US could play a role in shaping a new government if the current system were completely dismantled. Pahlavi has cultivated an image as a potential transitional leader, frequently emphasising secular democracy, free elections, and a framework of “national cooperation”. He has also engaged in post-Islamic Republic planning initiatives, including the 2025 Iran Prosperity Project. However, an important question remains: is most of his support largely symbolic, amplified by diaspora communities and Western media? He might be able to secure certain advantages, such as international recognition or sanctions relief — but at what cost? Pahlavi could serve as a unifying figure in the event of a power vacuum. By his own statements, he is not seeking personal rule. He could potentially act as a ceremonial or interim leader and facilitate a transition to a non-Islamist political system. The odds against Pahlavi becoming Iran’s ruler Pahlavi does not appear to have a formal domestic political network or a ready pool of officials capable of governing a future regime — or at least none have been publicly identified. He currently lacks military backing or a loyal institutional base. Obviously, he has no administrative experience inside Iran. Iranian opposition groups remain deeply divided, with monarchists, republicans, leftists, ethnic activists, and women’s rights groups each pursuing different agendas. The restoration of the monarchy does not appear to be widely supported, with only around 20–25 per cent explicitly favouring it. Pahlavi’s perceived closeness to pro-Israel or Western conservative circles could alienate segments of society wary of foreign influence. As mentioned, sudden ouster of the Islamist regime could lead to a fragmented transition. In such circumstances, power might be more likely to fall into the hands of military figures, clerical authorities, or even armed groups formed by former troops and their chiefs. An exile such as Pahlavi may not command the same level of institutional leverage — unless a US administration were to actively install him with the backing of American military, intelligence, and bureaucratic structures. In short, while Reza Pahlavi has meaningful support as a symbol of change and could play a role in a democratic transition, actually governing Iran in the long term would present significant challenges. As a visible figure in the West, he might be well-placed to facilitate elections or national reconciliation efforts. However, running Iran would require broader domestic consensus, robust organisational capacity, and the ability to overcome deep societal divisions. It remains unclear whether these conditions would be achievable in a post-Islamic Republic scenario. He may ultimately prove more viable as a unifying figurehead than as a guaranteed ruler.

Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent opposition figure amid calls for regime change in Iran and possible US military action. But his domestic support is limited. In case of a forced ouster of the Islamic Republic regime, will deep divisions hamper his ability to be the leader or ruler?

Can Reza Pahlavi II really run Iran if the Islamic Republic is ousted by a US military operation?

US President Donald Trump demanded that Netflix fire the “Trump-deranged” board member, former President Barack Obama's national security adviser and United Nations ambassador, Susan Rice, from its board of directors or face consequences. The statement comes amid a bidding war between Netflix and Paramount to acquire Warner Bros."Netflix should fire racist, Trump Deranged Susan Rice, IMMEDIATELY, or pay the consequences. She’s got no talent or skills - Purely a political hack!" wrote Trump on his Truth Social platform.

<h2>Why does Trump want Susan Rice fired from Netflix?</h2>Trump shared a screenshot of the post by Laura Loomer, which highlighted Rice's comment about Trump, where she threatened those who "took a knee" to the President. She suggested that if the Democrats prevail in the mid-term and next Presidential election, they should not forget about it. This political dimension of the financial war between Paramount and Netflix emerged due to Trump's not-so-hidden support for Paramount, whose owner, Larry Ellison, is a longtime Trump ally. Trump further called Netflix an "anti-American, woke company," pointing to its content which deal with Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground Productions.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-muslim-nations-condemn-us-ambassador-greater-israel-remarks-1771738645847">Arab and Muslim nations condemn US ambassador’s ‘Greater Israel’ remarks, demand clarification</a><h2>The three-way drama of Netflix-Paramount-Warner Bros</h2>The scale of the merger between Netflix and Warner Bros is problematic to the industry regulator as it might provide Netflix with an industry monopoly, killing the theatrical release, and moving to extreme streaming dominance. This will also put strain on creators and consumers as they will have very little choice. The deal remains vulnerable to antitrust intervention. &nbsp;Netflix deal focuses mostly on the streaming services like HBO Max and other legacy title with with $72 billion (all-cash) for the studio and streaming business and with an enterprise value of $83 billion. On the other hand, Paramount is attempting a hostile takeover of Warner Bros for $77.9 billion, with an enterprise value of $108 billion (including debt), including its declining platforms like MTV and Vh1. This will put the cumulative debt of Paramount at $87–$95 billion. The Warner Bros board is leaning towards the Netflix deal. However, the Poly market predicts a 73 per cent chance of Netflix failing to close a deal by the end of calendar year 2026. Netflix has allowed Warner Bros a seven-day window to reopen negotiations with Paramount to convince shareholder into leaving a higher bid from Paramount.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump demands Netflix fire board member Susan Rice amid a high-stakes bidding war with Paramount over Warner Bros. Here’s what sparked the clash.

US President Donald Trump demanded that Netflix fire the “Trump-deranged” board member, former President Barack Obama's national security adviser and United Nations ambassador, Susan Rice, from its board of directors or face consequences. The statement comes amid a bidding war between Netflix and Paramount to acquire Warner Bros. "Netflix should fire racist, Trump Deranged Susan Rice, IMMEDIATELY, or pay the consequences. She’s got no talent or skills - Purely a political hack!" wrote Trump on his Truth Social platform.

Donald Trump demands Netflix fire board member Susan Rice amid a high-stakes bidding war with Paramount over Warner Bros. Here’s what sparked the clash.

Why Donald Trump wants Susan Rice fired from Netflix amid Netflix-Paramount-Warner Bros bidding war

Somaliland is willing to offer its minerals and military bases to the United States. The breakaway region of Somalia has been seeing international recognition since declaring its autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Khadar Hussein Abdi, minister of the presidency, said that their government believes they will agree on something with the US President Donald Trump’s administration.“We are willing to give exclusive (access to our minerals) to the United States. Also, we are open to offer military bases to the United States,” Abdi told AFP. “We believe that we will agree on something with the United States.”The Somalian government still considers the territory an “integral part” of Somalia even though it has had its autonomous affairs since 1991, with its own currency, passport, army, and police force.Last year in December, Israel became the first nation in the world to recognise Somaliland’s independence, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country “in the spirit of the Abrahamic Accords”.Somaliland officials have said that the territory, which lies across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, has natural resources, including lithium, coltan and other sought-after materials.In recent weeks, Somaliland president has suggested granting Israel access to its minerals. Abdi also suggested the possibility of allowing Israel to set up military presence in the territory.Following Israel’s recognition of the territory, Trump had suggested that he was not aware of the existence of the territory.In an interview in December, Trump said, “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?”Meanwhile, South African nations and Somalia have denounced Israeli recognition of Somaliland. Rejecting the move, the African Union (AU) said the decision risks “setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”

Somaliland offered the US exclusive mineral access and military bases, seeking recognition. Somalia and the African Union oppose its independence, while Israel recently recognised the breakaway region.

Somaliland is willing to offer its minerals and military bases to the United States. The breakaway region of Somalia has been seeing international recognition since declaring its autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Khadar Hussein Abdi, minister of the presidency, said that their government believes they will agree on something with the US President Donald Trump’s administration. “We are willing to give exclusive (access to our minerals) to the United States. Also, we are open to offer military bases to the United States,” Abdi told AFP. “We believe that we will agree on something with the United States.” The Somalian government still considers the territory an “integral part” of Somalia even though it has had its autonomous affairs since 1991, with its own currency, passport, army, and police force. Last year in December, Israel became the first nation in the world to recognise Somaliland’s independence, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to establish full diplomatic ties with the country “in the spirit of the Abrahamic Accords”. Somaliland officials have said that the territory, which lies across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, has natural resources, including lithium, coltan and other sought-after materials. In recent weeks, Somaliland president has suggested granting Israel access to its minerals. Abdi also suggested the possibility of allowing Israel to set up military presence in the territory. Following Israel’s recognition of the territory, Trump had suggested that he was not aware of the existence of the territory. In an interview in December, Trump said, “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” Meanwhile, South African nations and Somalia have denounced Israeli recognition of Somaliland. Rejecting the move, the African Union (AU) said the decision risks “setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”

Somaliland offered the US exclusive mineral access and military bases, seeking recognition. Somalia and the African Union oppose its independence, while Israel recently recognised the breakaway region.

‘We are open to offer’: Somaliland willing to give minerals, military bases to US

Iran’s IRGC is reportedly rebuilding Hezbollah as Israel intensifies strikes in Lebanon and US-Iran tensions surge. With US naval deployments, troop movements, and nuclear talks underway, fears of a wider regional conflict are growing rapidly.

Iran preparing for war with Israel and US? IRGC takes over Hezbollah amid escalating tensions - What this means

As tensions rise between the United States and Iran, reports surfaced showing American military troops served luxury meals, creating a buzz on social media amid US President Donald Trump’s threats. A cryptic post surfaced on X showing an image of a meal served to military personnel consisting of steak, lobster, crab, and pie. The post has sparked rumours of a possible US military action in Iran, with a popular belief of a ‘last meal’ before deployment to war zones.“US Troops received menus including steak, pie, crab legs &amp; lobster,” the post read. Resharing the post, a retired military pilot in the United States Air Force, Buzz Patterson, wrote a cryptic message: “IYKYK. It’s on.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">IYKYK. It’s on. <a href="https://t.co/9ldEenICVw">https://t.co/9ldEenICVw</a>&mdash; Buzz Patterson (@BuzzPatterson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BuzzPatterson/status/2024991584723562994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Why steak and lobster meal spark rumours?</h2>While there is no official confirmation, a common belief suggests the US military serves its troops a ‘last meal’ with a fancy menu including steak, lobster, and pie, before sending them on a war front. Some link the hearty meal to a dangerous deployment or an extended mission. The theory has circulated on social media for years and often resurfaces during periods of geopolitical tensions.Notably, surf-and-turf meals are also served to US military personnel on holidays, special occasions, or as morale boosters.The recent post has fueled speculation of a possible US military strike on Iran, given heightened tensions between the two nations.<h2>US military served lavish meal before June strikes?</h2>Last year, in June, similar reports surfaced on social media on June 18 after military soldier Antonia Lopez posted a lavish meal video that went viral on social media. The day also coincided with the US Army’s birthday. In the clip, Lopez showed that she was given steak, lobster, caprese salad, asparagus, hush puppies, a baked potato, shrimp cocktail, fruit salad, garlic bread, cake, and pecan pie in the meal.Days after the video was posted, the United States carried out military strikes on Iranian targets on June 22.<h2>Trump to assassinate Khamenei?</h2>Meanwhile, reports emerge that Trump is weighing options that go far beyond diplomacy. According to an Axios report citing multiple sources, Trump is considering multiple scenarios, including one that involves the assassination of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Seyyed Imam Ali Khameneiand his potential successor, his son, Mojtaba.&nbsp;

A viral post showing US troops served steak and lobster sparked rumours of a “last meal” before a possible Iran strike. The tradition is often linked to deployments.

As tensions rise between the United States and Iran, reports surfaced showing American military troops served luxury meals, creating a buzz on social media amid US President Donald Trump’s threats. A cryptic post surfaced on X showing an image of a meal served to military personnel consisting of steak, lobster, crab, and pie. The post has sparked rumours of a possible US military action in Iran, with a popular belief of a ‘last meal’ before deployment to war zones. “US Troops received menus including steak, pie, crab legs & lobster,” the post read. Resharing the post, a retired military pilot in the United States Air Force, Buzz Patterson, wrote a cryptic message: “IYKYK. It’s on.”

A viral post showing US troops served steak and lobster sparked rumours of a “last meal” before a possible Iran strike. The tradition is often linked to deployments.

‘Last meal’ before strikes on Iran? Why US military’s lobster, steak feast might be bad for Khamenei

Taliban warns of a “calculated response” after Pakistan’s strikes on alleged militant camps, which Kabul says killed civilians. With tensions escalating and border crossings like Torkham and Chaman likely shut, fears of a fresh conflict between the two neighbours are rising.

'Such acts of aggression...': Taliban-led Afghanistan's BIG warning to Pakistan after airstrikes — Another conflict soon?

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