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Recognised as one of the most unique races on the global running calendar, the Dead Sea Land Marathon sawmore than 8,000 participants this year, including 32 runners from the UK, who made the dramatic descent to the lowest place on Earth for the unforgettable event. Now in its seventh edition, the marathon reached full capacity two months ahead of race day, reinforcing its status as a sought-after challenge for international endurance enthusiasts.&nbsp;What sets the race apart is its extraordinary course. For one day only, competitors are given access to areas typically off-limits to the public, including narrow gravel embankments spanning 6-8 metres wide that slice directly through the waters of the Dead Sea. Among the entrants was Yoel Levy, known as ‘The Jewish Fitness Coach’, who completed the marathon for the second time dressed as Batman in tribute to Ariel and Kfir Bibas.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-hoping-that-we-can-get-back-to-diversity-and-equality-coco-gauff-on-ice-action-in-us-1771308833944">'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US</a>&nbsp;A seasoned international racer, Levy described the event as one of the standout experiences of his sporting year, citing both the dramatic landscape and the warm atmosphere created by fellow runners, organisers, and spectators. The event offers six race categories designed to suit a broad range of abilities, from a beginner-friendly 5km to a 50km ultramarathon. Participants could also choose the half marathon, full marathon or the popular 15km “Around Tamar” route. Beyond the competition itself, many runners took advantage of the Dead Sea’s famed natural therapies, including its mineral-rich mud baths.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-embraces-crypto-to-evade-sanctions-1771308905591/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-embraces-crypto-to-evade-sanctions-1771308905591/embed</a>&nbsp;Michael ben Baruch, Director of the UK Ministry of Tourism, welcomed the strong international turnout. He said that events of this scale not only showcase the unique scenery of the region but also encourage visitors to explore the wider attractions Israel has to offer.

8,000 runners descend to Earth’s lowest point for the Dead Sea Land Marathon

Recognised as one of the most unique races on the global running calendar, the Dead Sea Land Marathon sawmore than 8,000 participants this year, including 32 runners from the UK, who made the dramatic descent to the lowest place on Earth for the unforgettable event. Now in its seventh edition, the marathon reached full capacity two months ahead of race day, reinforcing its status as a sought-after challenge for international endurance enthusiasts. What sets the race apart is its extraordinary course. For one day only, competitors are given access to areas typically off-limits to the public, including narrow gravel embankments spanning 6-8 metres wide that slice directly through the waters of the Dead Sea. Among the entrants was Yoel Levy, known as ‘The Jewish Fitness Coach’, who completed the marathon for the second time dressed as Batman in tribute to Ariel and Kfir Bibas. Also Read: 'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US A seasoned international racer, Levy described the event as one of the standout experiences of his sporting year, citing both the dramatic landscape and the warm atmosphere created by fellow runners, organisers, and spectators. The event offers six race categories designed to suit a broad range of abilities, from a beginner-friendly 5km to a 50km ultramarathon. Participants could also choose the half marathon, full marathon or the popular 15km “Around Tamar” route. Beyond the competition itself, many runners took advantage of the Dead Sea’s famed natural therapies, including its mineral-rich mud baths. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-embraces-crypto-to-evade-sanctions-1771308905591/embed Michael ben Baruch, Director of the UK Ministry of Tourism, welcomed the strong international turnout. He said that events of this scale not only showcase the unique scenery of the region but also encourage visitors to explore the wider attractions Israel has to offer.

8,000 runners, including 32 British people, competed in the unique Dead Sea Land Marathon, racing across exclusive dikes at the world’s lowest point

At least 14 military personnel, 18 militants and 3 civilians, including a child, have been killed in two bomb attacks and a gunfight in a security checkpoint in northwestern Pakistan. The incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa left 12 more injured, said military personnel on Tuesday. According to security forces, militants rammed a explosive laden vehicle into a wall near a military checkpoint in Baijaur on Monday, killing 11 security personnel and a girl. Security forces killed 12 militants after the blast on Tuesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-mexico-truth-commission-epstein-zorro-ranch-investigation-1771313807551">New Mexico lawmakers approve ‘Truth Commission’ to probe Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch activities</a>“The assailants sought to breach the check post security; however, their nefarious designs were swiftly and decisively foiled by the vigilant and resolute response of Pakistan’s security forces. Displaying unwavering courage and professional excellence, our valiant troops engaged the fleeing khwarij with precision, eliminating twelve khwarij,” the ISPR said on Tuesday.&nbsp;In a separate incident reported by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police, 3 security personnel and 3 militants were killed in a search and rescue operation in Shangla district. According to security forces, deceased fighters were engaged in targeting “Chinese nationals”.&nbsp;Pakistan has seen a surge in terrorist attacks since the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan. More than 2,400 deaths were recorded in the first three quarters of 2025. Its an increase from the 2500 attacks of 2024. Pakistan has blamed the attack on the Pakistan Taliban (TTP). TTP members belong largely to the tribal areas of Pakistan nearing the border of Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

At least 14 security personnel, 18 militants and 3 civilians were killed in bomb attacks and gunfights in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

At least 14 military personnel, 18 militants and 3 civilians, including a child, have been killed in two bomb attacks and a gunfight in a security checkpoint in northwestern Pakistan. The incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa left 12 more injured, said military personnel on Tuesday. According to security forces, militants rammed a explosive laden vehicle into a wall near a military checkpoint in Baijaur on Monday, killing 11 security personnel and a girl. Security forces killed 12 militants after the blast on Tuesday. Also Read: New Mexico lawmakers approve ‘Truth Commission’ to probe Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch activities “The assailants sought to breach the check post security; however, their nefarious designs were swiftly and decisively foiled by the vigilant and resolute response of Pakistan’s security forces. Displaying unwavering courage and professional excellence, our valiant troops engaged the fleeing khwarij with precision, eliminating twelve khwarij,” the ISPR said on Tuesday. In a separate incident reported by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police, 3 security personnel and 3 militants were killed in a search and rescue operation in Shangla district. According to security forces, deceased fighters were engaged in targeting “Chinese nationals”. Pakistan has seen a surge in terrorist attacks since the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan. More than 2,400 deaths were recorded in the first three quarters of 2025. Its an increase from the 2500 attacks of 2024. Pakistan has blamed the attack on the Pakistan Taliban (TTP). TTP members belong largely to the tribal areas of Pakistan nearing the border of Afghanistan.

At least 14 security personnel, 18 militants and 3 civilians were killed in bomb attacks and gunfights in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

14 soldiers, 18 militants killed in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa bombings; child among civilian dead

The Rev Jesse Jackson, a prominent personality in the civil rights movement for more than 50 years and a key contender for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988, has passed away at the age of 84. The cause of his death is still unknown. For over a decade, Jackson had progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), who was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He was also admitted to the hospital twice with Covid in recent years.<h3>Who was Jesse Jackson?</h3>Jesse Jackson was one of the most key figures of the 20th-century American civil rights movement, who paved the way for the progressive policies of Barack Obama, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders in the 21st century. Along with being close to Dr Martin Luther King Jr, he was also a fixture in the civil rights movement and Democratic politics since the 1960s.&nbsp;After Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination in 1968, he went on to become one of the most successful Black politicians of his generation. Two decades after Jackson’s second presidential bid, Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, paid tribute to him, saying Jackson helped pave the way for his own historic victory. Obama marked the moment in Chicago, a city closely associated with Jackson.<h3>Jackson's early life and career</h3>Jesse Jackson was born Jesse Louis Burns in 1941 to a teenage mother, Helen Burns. He later took the surname of his stepfather, Charles Jackson, while maintaining a relationship with his biological father, Noah L. Robinson. His early experiences with racial inequality shaped a lifelong commitment to justice.&nbsp;The activism of Jackson began in earnest in 1960 in Greenville, South Carolina, when he led the “Greenville Eight” in a peaceful protest against library segregation, an act that resulted in his first arrest. He studied briefly at the University of Illinois on a football scholarship before transferring to North Carolina A&amp;T, where he earned a degree in sociology.&nbsp;He later moved to Chicago with his wife, Jacqueline Lavinia Brown, and pursued theological studies, eventually becoming an ordained Baptist minister in 1968 following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. A close associate of King, Jackson joined him in the Selma marches and later headed Operation Breadbasket within the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, focusing on economic empowerment for Black communities. His leadership style, however, sometimes drew criticism, particularly over financial management.&nbsp;Jackson was present at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis when King was assassinated in 1968, an event that deeply marked him and shaped his public persona. In 1983, he launched a historic run for the Democratic presidential nomination, mobilising millions of Black voters and minorities. Although his campaign faced setbacks, including criticism over controversial associations, his efforts reshaped progressive politics.&nbsp;In later decades, Jackson remained active in civil rights causes, from commemorating the Selma marches to supporting Black Lives Matter protests after the killing of George Floyd. His policy vision influenced a new generation of progressive leaders, including Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Despite personal and family scandals, Jackson’s legacy endures as one of expanding political participation, economic justice, and racial equality in the United States.&nbsp;In 2008, Jesse Jackson initially expressed reservations about Barack Obama’s candidacy, accusing him of distancing himself from Black communities. However, when Obama’s historic victory became clear on November 4, Jackson was present in Chicago’s Grant Park, where his emotional, tearful reaction became an iconic image. Later, in 2017, Jackson developed Parkinson's disease, depriving him of the ability to walk and talk.&nbsp;&nbsp;Four years later, he was admitted to a hospital due to COVID and subsequently spent several weeks in a rehabilitation facility. In 2025, he was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative condition known as progressive supranuclear palsy. At the end, he passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 84. &nbsp;

After Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination in 1968, Jesse Jackson became one of the most successful Black politicians of his generation. Two decades after Jackson’s second presidential bid, Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, paid tribute to him.

The Rev Jesse Jackson, a prominent personality in the civil rights movement for more than 50 years and a key contender for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988, has passed away at the age of 84. The cause of his death is still unknown. For over a decade, Jackson had progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), who was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He was also admitted to the hospital twice with Covid in recent years. Who was Jesse Jackson? Jesse Jackson was one of the most key figures of the 20th-century American civil rights movement, who paved the way for the progressive policies of Barack Obama, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders in the 21st century. Along with being close to Dr Martin Luther King Jr, he was also a fixture in the civil rights movement and Democratic politics since the 1960s. After Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination in 1968, he went on to become one of the most successful Black politicians of his generation. Two decades after Jackson’s second presidential bid, Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, paid tribute to him, saying Jackson helped pave the way for his own historic victory. Obama marked the moment in Chicago, a city closely associated with Jackson. Jackson's early life and career Jesse Jackson was born Jesse Louis Burns in 1941 to a teenage mother, Helen Burns. He later took the surname of his stepfather, Charles Jackson, while maintaining a relationship with his biological father, Noah L. Robinson. His early experiences with racial inequality shaped a lifelong commitment to justice. The activism of Jackson began in earnest in 1960 in Greenville, South Carolina, when he led the “Greenville Eight” in a peaceful protest against library segregation, an act that resulted in his first arrest. He studied briefly at the University of Illinois on a football scholarship before transferring to North Carolina A&T, where he earned a degree in sociology. He later moved to Chicago with his wife, Jacqueline Lavinia Brown, and pursued theological studies, eventually becoming an ordained Baptist minister in 1968 following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. A close associate of King, Jackson joined him in the Selma marches and later headed Operation Breadbasket within the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, focusing on economic empowerment for Black communities. His leadership style, however, sometimes drew criticism, particularly over financial management. Jackson was present at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis when King was assassinated in 1968, an event that deeply marked him and shaped his public persona. In 1983, he launched a historic run for the Democratic presidential nomination, mobilising millions of Black voters and minorities. Although his campaign faced setbacks, including criticism over controversial associations, his efforts reshaped progressive politics. In later decades, Jackson remained active in civil rights causes, from commemorating the Selma marches to supporting Black Lives Matter protests after the killing of George Floyd. His policy vision influenced a new generation of progressive leaders, including Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Despite personal and family scandals, Jackson’s legacy endures as one of expanding political participation, economic justice, and racial equality in the United States. In 2008, Jesse Jackson initially expressed reservations about Barack Obama’s candidacy, accusing him of distancing himself from Black communities. However, when Obama’s historic victory became clear on November 4, Jackson was present in Chicago’s Grant Park, where his emotional, tearful reaction became an iconic image. Later, in 2017, Jackson developed Parkinson's disease, depriving him of the ability to walk and talk. Four years later, he was admitted to a hospital due to COVID and subsequently spent several weeks in a rehabilitation facility. In 2025, he was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative condition known as progressive supranuclear palsy. At the end, he passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 84.

After Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination in 1968, Jesse Jackson became one of the most successful Black politicians of his generation. Two decades after Jackson’s second presidential bid, Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, paid tribute to him.

Who was Jesse Jackson? US civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Junior's protege dies at 84

The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States began a fresh round of talks on Tuesday (Feb 17) in Geneva amid the diplomatic tensions over Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaee, told the Iranian media that the meeting began with representatives from both nations, with Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi being the mediator. He said that the main focus of the talks was nuclear-related issues.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran was seeking to “achieve a fair and equitable deal”. Moreover, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that the US President Donald Trump recently mentioned that the US has not been able to destroy Iran for the last 47 years. “He has complained to his own people. This is a good confession. You will not be able to do this either," he added.<h2>Parts of Strait of Hormuz closed?</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-hitler-wanted-master-race-they-want-master-religion-us-senator-lindsey-graham-compares-khamenei-with-nazis-1771009318196">'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis</a>&nbsp;As the talks began, it was reported by the Iranian media that parts of the Strait of Hormuz will likely be closed for a few hours due to “security precautions” for shipping safety, as the Revolutionary Guard conduct military drills in the waterway.&nbsp;A day earlier, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy began a military exercise in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The drill was named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz," and was reported to be led by the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It was also reported that IRGC's Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour, was supervising the process. The exercise aimed to assess the readiness of operational units, review security plans, and rehearse scenarios for a military response to potential security threats.<h2>‘It’s going to be traumatic’</h2>US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Feb 12), warned Iran, saying that if the Islamic Republic fails to reach an agreement with America, then it will lead to a “very traumatic” outcome for Tehran. “With Iran, we have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic,” Trump said in remarks at the White House. He added, “They should have made a deal the first time, and they got Midnight Hammer instead.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, after meeting with Netayhau, the American president, via a social media post, warned Tehran that there would be consequences if no deal was signed. "I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a Deal can be consummated. If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that it will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be," Trump wrote on Truth Social.<h2>Netanyahu on US-Iran talks</h2>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met US President Donald Trump on February 12. Before onboarding the flight, he said that the Iranians could be forced to accept “a good deal", but he is sceptical about it. “I have just concluded a short but important visit to Washington, during which I spoke with our great friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, adding: “We have a close, genuine, and open relationship.”&nbsp;“The president believes the Iranians already understand who they are dealing with. I think the conditions he (Trump) is setting, combined with their understanding that they made a mistake last time by not reaching an agreement, could lead them to accept terms that would make it possible to achieve a good deal," he further said.<h2>Tehran's ballistic missiles in nuke talks</h2>Trump, in an interview on February 10, said that it was a "no-brainer" that any deal with Iran would include its nuclear programme. Still, he also thought it would be possible to address Iran's ballistic missile stockpiles. When questioned about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's take on the upcoming talks, Trump said he doesn't think Netanyahu is nervous about the US-Iran negotiations. "He also wants a deal. He wants a good deal."&nbsp;Reacting to this, a senior advisor to the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that the Tehran negotiators have no authority to discuss missile capability in the meeting. Ali Shamkhani, who was recently appointed as the Secretary of the Supreme Defence Council, added that war with America would not be limited to the two sides and would extend in the region.&nbsp;Moreover, Araghchi said that Tehran's missile programme was not open to negotiation and would not be included in any talks. “No one can make the slightest encroachment on our missiles. Our missiles are not a subject of negotiation and will not be,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

US and Iran resumed nuclear talks in Geneva, with Trump warning of consequences and Khamenei rejecting pressure, as disputes over missiles and Strait of Hormuz drills heighten regional tensions.

The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States began a fresh round of talks on Tuesday (Feb 17) in Geneva amid the diplomatic tensions over Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaee, told the Iranian media that the meeting began with representatives from both nations, with Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi being the mediator. He said that the main focus of the talks was nuclear-related issues. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran was seeking to “achieve a fair and equitable deal”. Moreover, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that the US President Donald Trump recently mentioned that the US has not been able to destroy Iran for the last 47 years. “He has complained to his own people. This is a good confession. You will not be able to do this either," he added. Parts of Strait of Hormuz closed? Also read: 'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis As the talks began, it was reported by the Iranian media that parts of the Strait of Hormuz will likely be closed for a few hours due to “security precautions” for shipping safety, as the Revolutionary Guard conduct military drills in the waterway. A day earlier, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Navy began a military exercise in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The drill was named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz," and was reported to be led by the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It was also reported that IRGC's Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour, was supervising the process. The exercise aimed to assess the readiness of operational units, review security plans, and rehearse scenarios for a military response to potential security threats. ‘It’s going to be traumatic’ US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Feb 12), warned Iran, saying that if the Islamic Republic fails to reach an agreement with America, then it will lead to a “very traumatic” outcome for Tehran. “With Iran, we have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic,” Trump said in remarks at the White House. He added, “They should have made a deal the first time, and they got Midnight Hammer instead.” Earlier, after meeting with Netayhau, the American president, via a social media post, warned Tehran that there would be consequences if no deal was signed. "I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a Deal can be consummated. If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that it will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be," Trump wrote on Truth Social. Netanyahu on US-Iran talks Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met US President Donald Trump on February 12. Before onboarding the flight, he said that the Iranians could be forced to accept “a good deal", but he is sceptical about it. “I have just concluded a short but important visit to Washington, during which I spoke with our great friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, adding: “We have a close, genuine, and open relationship.” “The president believes the Iranians already understand who they are dealing with. I think the conditions he (Trump) is setting, combined with their understanding that they made a mistake last time by not reaching an agreement, could lead them to accept terms that would make it possible to achieve a good deal," he further said. Tehran's ballistic missiles in nuke talks Trump, in an interview on February 10, said that it was a "no-brainer" that any deal with Iran would include its nuclear programme. Still, he also thought it would be possible to address Iran's ballistic missile stockpiles. When questioned about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's take on the upcoming talks, Trump said he doesn't think Netanyahu is nervous about the US-Iran negotiations. "He also wants a deal. He wants a good deal." Reacting to this, a senior advisor to the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that the Tehran negotiators have no authority to discuss missile capability in the meeting. Ali Shamkhani, who was recently appointed as the Secretary of the Supreme Defence Council, added that war with America would not be limited to the two sides and would extend in the region. Moreover, Araghchi said that Tehran's missile programme was not open to negotiation and would not be included in any talks. “No one can make the slightest encroachment on our missiles. Our missiles are not a subject of negotiation and will not be,” he said.

US and Iran resumed nuclear talks in Geneva, with Trump warning of consequences and Khamenei rejecting pressure, as disputes over missiles and Strait of Hormuz drills heighten regional tensions.

US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva: From Trump’s warnings to Khemeni’s rebuttal - here’s how we reach here

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held bilateral talks in Mumbai on Tuesday (February 17). PM Modi said that the relationship between France and India is very special. France is among the oldest strategic partners. “We are very proud that in collaboration with France we are making a helicopter which can fly upto the heights of Mount Everest. 2026 is a turning point in the India-Europe relationship. We signed a free trade agreement with Europe. It will also bring a big change in our relationship with France. Innovation comes from collaboration. We are connecting our industry and innovators.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-touts-strongest-military-khamenei-warns-us-could-be-struck-so-hard-cannot-get-up-again-1771328673113">Trump touts ‘strongest military’; Khamenei warns US could be 'struck so hard cannot get up again'</a>&nbsp;Modi further said that the world is going through uncertainty; at this juncture, the India-France relationship will act as a force for global stability. He also said that we will eliminate terrorism from the root. Meanwhile, Macron said that he was thankful for the warm hospitality. He said, “India and France's relationship is unique. We discussed today that our relationships will become more stronger, we have trust and transparency in our relationship. In the last 8 years, we have taken many joint ventures. We want France to become a trustworty partnership of India. We have also decided today to elevate this partnership to a special strategic partnership, granting it a new status.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/storm-slams-south-island-after-wellington-chaos-state-of-emergency-declared-on-banks-peninsula-1771317007919/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/storm-slams-south-island-after-wellington-chaos-state-of-emergency-declared-on-banks-peninsula-1771317007919/embed</a><h2>WATCH- Emmanuel Macron meeting PM Narendra Modi</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🇮🇳🇫🇷 <a href="https://t.co/ACBDaxbHxg">pic.twitter.com/ACBDaxbHxg</a>&mdash; Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/2023728218780356889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Before the bilateral talks, Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron inaugurated India's first helicopter final assembly line, a joint venture between India's Tata Group and Airbus. The facility in Vemagal, in the southern state of Karnataka near the tech hub of Bengaluru, will manufacture the Airbus H125, the company's single-engine helicopter.&nbsp;Modi, in a post on X, wrote, “It’s a delight to meet my friend, President Macron, in Mumbai! He told me he really likes the city and also enjoyed his run earlier in the day!”

Macron in India: PM Modi hails 'special ties' with France, says ,'we will eliminate terrorism from roots'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held bilateral talks in Mumbai on Tuesday (February 17). PM Modi said that the relationship between France and India is very special. France is among the oldest strategic partners. “We are very proud that in collaboration with France we are making a helicopter which can fly upto the heights of Mount Everest. 2026 is a turning point in the India-Europe relationship. We signed a free trade agreement with Europe. It will also bring a big change in our relationship with France. Innovation comes from collaboration. We are connecting our industry and innovators.” Also Read: Trump touts ‘strongest military’; Khamenei warns US could be 'struck so hard cannot get up again' Modi further said that the world is going through uncertainty; at this juncture, the India-France relationship will act as a force for global stability. He also said that we will eliminate terrorism from the root. Meanwhile, Macron said that he was thankful for the warm hospitality. He said, “India and France's relationship is unique. We discussed today that our relationships will become more stronger, we have trust and transparency in our relationship. In the last 8 years, we have taken many joint ventures. We want France to become a trustworty partnership of India. We have also decided today to elevate this partnership to a special strategic partnership, granting it a new status.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/storm-slams-south-island-after-wellington-chaos-state-of-emergency-declared-on-banks-peninsula-1771317007919/embed WATCH- Emmanuel Macron meeting PM Narendra Modi

After bilateral discussions with Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the India–France trade agreement would serve as a pillar of global stability

As the second round of talk between US and Iran is underway in Geneva, Supreme leader Ali Khamenei has highlighted America’s rhetoric; he said “The US President keeps saying that they have the strongest military force in the world.” This comment comes after Trump’s threats that Iran will have to face consequences if the deal doesn’t fall through.&nbsp;Ahead of the talks in Switzerland, the US president said, "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East. You will see some flames here and there, but we essentially have peace in the Middle East. That happened because we did a B-2 attack on the nuclear potential."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The US President keeps saying that they have the strongest military force in the world. The strongest military force in the world may at times be struck so hard that it cannot get up again.&mdash; Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/2023705346523480312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

To which Khamenei responded, “The strongest military force in the world may at times be struck so hard that it cannot get up again. They keep saying we have sent aircraft carriers toward Iran. Very well… an aircraft carrier is indeed a dangerous asset, but more dangerous than the carrier is the weapon that can send this carrier to the bottom of the sea.” <h2>US deploys world’s largest aircraft carrier to Middle East</h2> The US is sending USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to the Middle East, where USS Abraham Lincolnis already stationed. America is creating a "dual carrier" presence. It seems like Donald Trump’s strategy to persuade Iran into a deal over its nuclear programme, which may potentially extend to its missile programme as well. A day after hosting Israeli President Netanyahu, Trump told reporters, "We have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic. I don't want that to happen, but we have to make a deal. This will be very traumatic for Iran if they don't make a deal." The deployment of the largest warship ever constructed comes after the US president’s sharp comments. Last year in July, US which was brokering peace between the warring nations, struck Iran and also caused damage to its nuclear facilities. Referring to the talks and deal, he added, "We'll see if we can get a deal with them, and if we can't, we'll have to go to phase two. Phase two will be very tough for them.”

Ahead of the talks in Switzerland, the US president said, "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East.

As the second round of talk between US and Iran is underway in Geneva, Supreme leader Ali Khamenei has highlighted America’s rhetoric; he said “The US President keeps saying that they have the strongest military force in the world.” This comment comes after Trump’s threats that Iran will have to face consequences if the deal doesn’t fall through. Ahead of the talks in Switzerland, the US president said, "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East. You will see some flames here and there, but we essentially have peace in the Middle East. That happened because we did a B-2 attack on the nuclear potential."

Ahead of the talks in Switzerland, the US president said, "They want to make a deal... We have peace in the Middle East.

Trump touts ‘strongest military’; Khamenei warns US could be 'struck so hard cannot get up again'

Dalal Street saw a flurry of IPOs in 2025 and the momentum continues in 2026. What particularly caught eyeballs, not just of institutional investors but also retail investors, were the listings of household names like Lenskart, Meesho, Groww and Urban Company, among others. Another such name to join the list sometime after March 2027 could be digital healthcare platform Tata 1mg. CEO Prashant Tandon, without committing to an official timeline, asserted that the firm would be ready to start working towards a listing once it turns entirely profitable.&nbsp;“The company will be ready within a year or two. We would list it as a profitable company, not as a loss-making company. So once we achieve the milestone that we need to, after that the shareholders will take it,” he said in an exclusive interaction with Wion, on the sidelines of the Global Business Summit in New Delhi on February 13.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/epstein-list-fallout-bill-gates-out-of-ai-impact-summit-despite-being-in-india-official-word-awaited-1771310133247">AI Summit website shows Bill Gates attending as planned after name vanishes. Here is when he is speaking</a><h2>Tata 1mg aims for profitability in FY27</h2>When asked how long it would take for Tata 1mg to become profitable, Tandon said while aggressive investment in brick-and-mortar expansion is underway, the core business already turned profitable in December 2025. It gives comfort and confidence that the rest of the business is sustainable and positive, he said. &nbsp;“And when will we become profitable? In the coming financial year, we will. FY27. By Q4, the entire business, net of all investments, should be. That is what we are targeting,” he told Wion.<h2>Why is Tata 1mg taking the omnichannel route?</h2>Tandon’s comments come at a time when Tata 1mg is eyeing to open 500 stores by the end of 2026. When asked about the rationale behind the shift to omnichannel, he said, having a physical location complements the digital channel. “Everything is digital. The only question is what is the channel of access? It used to be an app and a web. Now, you can walk into a store as well… It is actually working very well for consumer retention. Earlier they were buying only chronic medicines from us. Now they also buy their acute medicines as they need from our brick-and-mortar store.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-is-sarvam-kaze-india-s-first-indigenous-glasses-pm-modi-wore-at-ai-impact-summit-2026-1771319066279">What is Sarvam Kaze? India's first indigenous glasses PM Modi wore at AI Impact Summit 2026</a>&nbsp;He added that since the firm has its own physical store in an area, it is also able to do 30 minute-deliveries in an economically profitable manner, just like a normal neighborhood store would do. He explained that a typical retail store in a pharmacy can keep about 3,000 to 5,000 stock keeping units (SKUs), which is a specific product variation. Tata 1mg has almost eight lakh SKUs. If one doesn’t get the medicine they need, it would be delivered by evening through the digital network. “Our online channel will ensure you get it from somewhere in the country.”&nbsp;“So, the business model is actually very strong and solid. And all said and done, 96-97% of India is still getting their medicines offline…Our aspiration is to be one of the leading providers of healthcare products and services, the next phase of our evolution is to move where the world is going, to Omnichannel.”<h2>Global expansion not on the cards yet</h2>Meanwhile, Tata 1mg has ruled out any immediate overseas expansion plans. Tandon said there is significant inbound interest from global markets, however, India currently presents a massive untapped opportunity, with Tata 1mg still holding less than one percent of market share. International expansion is possible long-term, but not in the near future, he clarified.<h2>‘Biopharma may be a turnaround opportunity for India’</h2>Reflecting on the healthcare sector as a whole in India, Tandon said biosimilars and biopharma are turning out to be interesting stories where the world's value pool is moving. “In the budget also, Rs 10,000 crore was announced for biopharma. That is where we needed to find a way to kickstart this ecosystem…Now that the government has articulated at least capital support, I'm very excited. Finally, we might have some innovative molecules come out of India as well,” he said.

Tata 1mg plans a potential IPO after achieving full profitability, likely post-FY27. CEO Prashant Tandon said the company is focusing on sustainable growth via omnichannel expansion, aiming to open 500 stores while strengthening its digital healthcare presence in India.

Dalal Street saw a flurry of IPOs in 2025 and the momentum continues in 2026. What particularly caught eyeballs, not just of institutional investors but also retail investors, were the listings of household names like Lenskart, Meesho, Groww and Urban Company, among others. Another such name to join the list sometime after March 2027 could be digital healthcare platform Tata 1mg. CEO Prashant Tandon, without committing to an official timeline, asserted that the firm would be ready to start working towards a listing once it turns entirely profitable. “The company will be ready within a year or two. We would list it as a profitable company, not as a loss-making company. So once we achieve the milestone that we need to, after that the shareholders will take it,” he said in an exclusive interaction with Wion, on the sidelines of the Global Business Summit in New Delhi on February 13. Also Read: AI Summit website shows Bill Gates attending as planned after name vanishes. Here is when he is speaking Tata 1mg aims for profitability in FY27 When asked how long it would take for Tata 1mg to become profitable, Tandon said while aggressive investment in brick-and-mortar expansion is underway, the core business already turned profitable in December 2025. It gives comfort and confidence that the rest of the business is sustainable and positive, he said. “And when will we become profitable? In the coming financial year, we will. FY27. By Q4, the entire business, net of all investments, should be. That is what we are targeting,” he told Wion. Why is Tata 1mg taking the omnichannel route? Tandon’s comments come at a time when Tata 1mg is eyeing to open 500 stores by the end of 2026. When asked about the rationale behind the shift to omnichannel, he said, having a physical location complements the digital channel. “Everything is digital. The only question is what is the channel of access? It used to be an app and a web. Now, you can walk into a store as well… It is actually working very well for consumer retention. Earlier they were buying only chronic medicines from us. Now they also buy their acute medicines as they need from our brick-and-mortar store.” Also Read: What is Sarvam Kaze? India's first indigenous glasses PM Modi wore at AI Impact Summit 2026 He added that since the firm has its own physical store in an area, it is also able to do 30 minute-deliveries in an economically profitable manner, just like a normal neighborhood store would do. He explained that a typical retail store in a pharmacy can keep about 3,000 to 5,000 stock keeping units (SKUs), which is a specific product variation. Tata 1mg has almost eight lakh SKUs. If one doesn’t get the medicine they need, it would be delivered by evening through the digital network. “Our online channel will ensure you get it from somewhere in the country.” “So, the business model is actually very strong and solid. And all said and done, 96-97% of India is still getting their medicines offline…Our aspiration is to be one of the leading providers of healthcare products and services, the next phase of our evolution is to move where the world is going, to Omnichannel.” Global expansion not on the cards yet Meanwhile, Tata 1mg has ruled out any immediate overseas expansion plans. Tandon said there is significant inbound interest from global markets, however, India currently presents a massive untapped opportunity, with Tata 1mg still holding less than one percent of market share. International expansion is possible long-term, but not in the near future, he clarified. ‘Biopharma may be a turnaround opportunity for India’ Reflecting on the healthcare sector as a whole in India, Tandon said biosimilars and biopharma are turning out to be interesting stories where the world's value pool is moving. “In the budget also, Rs 10,000 crore was announced for biopharma. That is where we needed to find a way to kickstart this ecosystem…Now that the government has articulated at least capital support, I'm very excited. Finally, we might have some innovative molecules come out of India as well,” he said.

Tata 1mg plans a potential IPO after achieving full profitability, likely post-FY27. CEO Prashant Tandon said the company is focusing on sustainable growth via omnichannel expansion, aiming to open 500 stores while strengthening its digital healthcare presence in India.

Tata 1mg IPO likely after FY27, CEO Prashant Tandon says profitability holds the key

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya rolled out a distinctly Bengaluru-style welcome for newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor during the diplomat’s first visit to the city. Surya hosted Gor in Indiranagar, treating him to classic local favourites, masala dosa and traditional filter coffee. The evening didn’t stop there. The two capped off their outing with a late-night ride in a Namma Auto, an experience Surya described as the “real Bengaluru.”&nbsp;In a selfie video shared online, Surya greeted the envoy warmly, calling Bengaluru “India’s best and most happening city.” Gor responded with equal enthusiasm, praising Surya as an “incredible host” and noting that it was his first-ever visit to the Karnataka capital. Posting later on X, Surya commended Gor’s energetic diplomatic approach and his strong belief in the vast possibilities of India-US cooperation. He said the auto ride made for a memorable introduction to the city and described Bengaluru as a cornerstone of the India–US partnership.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tarique-rahman-sworn-in-as-bangladesh-s-new-pm-after-massive-win-1771323125415">Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh's new PM after massive win</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ambassador Sergio Gor brings uncommon energy and dynamism to diplomacy, and a true belief in India-US’s limitless potential. A late-night Namma Auto ride is the real Bengaluru experience. Thank you for an inspiring conversation and for believing in our great shared future.… <a href="https://t.co/gHxO9KlbKx">https://t.co/gHxO9KlbKx</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPxHybAYcV">pic.twitter.com/iPxHybAYcV</a>&mdash; Tejasvi Surya (@Tejasvi_Surya) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tejasvi_Surya/status/2023476598742413434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gor also shared moments from the visit, including a traditional South Indian meal of idlis, chutney and sambar served on banana leaves. He thanked Surya for the hospitality and highlighted the city’s vibrant spirit, saying Bengaluru’s dynamism, from its startup ecosystem to its street food, left a lasting impression.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-trade-shift-asean-3-leads-global-electronics-market-china-tops-imports-1771315170525/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-trade-shift-asean-3-leads-global-electronics-market-china-tops-imports-1771315170525/embed</a>&nbsp;The meeting followed the finalisation of a long-awaited interim trade framework between India and the United States. The agreement reduces reciprocal tariffs to 18 per cent. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump withdrew the 25 per cent penalty tariffs that had been imposed on India over its Russian oil purchases. Gor was recently appointed as the United States Ambassador to India, marking a new chapter in diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

Masala dosa, filter coffee and Namma auto ride: Tejasvi Surya hosts US Ambassador Sergio Gor in style

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya rolled out a distinctly Bengaluru-style welcome for newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor during the diplomat’s first visit to the city. Surya hosted Gor in Indiranagar, treating him to classic local favourites, masala dosa and traditional filter coffee. The evening didn’t stop there. The two capped off their outing with a late-night ride in a Namma Auto, an experience Surya described as the “real Bengaluru.” In a selfie video shared online, Surya greeted the envoy warmly, calling Bengaluru “India’s best and most happening city.” Gor responded with equal enthusiasm, praising Surya as an “incredible host” and noting that it was his first-ever visit to the Karnataka capital. Posting later on X, Surya commended Gor’s energetic diplomatic approach and his strong belief in the vast possibilities of India-US cooperation. He said the auto ride made for a memorable introduction to the city and described Bengaluru as a cornerstone of the India–US partnership. Also Read: Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh's new PM after massive win Watch the video here

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya welcomed US Ambassador Sergio Gor to Bengaluru with dosa, filter coffee, and a Namma Auto ride amid new India–US trade deal talks

The Rev Jesse Jackson, a prominent personality in the civil rights movement for more than 50 years and a key contender for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988, has passed away at the age of 84. “Our father was a servant leader – not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” the Jackson family said.&nbsp;“We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honour his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by," the family added. The cause of his death is still unknown.&nbsp;<h3>Jackson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease</h3>For over a decade, Jackson had progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), who was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He was also admitted to the hospital twice with Covid in recent years.&nbsp;Rev Jesse Jackson was a fixture in the civil rights movement and Democratic politics since the 1960s. He was also once close to Dr Martin Luther King Jr. “I was a trailblazer, I was a pathfinder. I had to deal with doubt, cynicism and fears about a Black person running. There were Black scholars writing papers about why I was wasting my time. Even Blacks said a Black couldn’t win," Jackson told the Guardian in May 2020.&nbsp;Two decades after Jackson’s second presidential bid, Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, paid tribute to him, saying Jackson helped pave the way for his own historic victory. Obama marked the moment in Chicago, a city closely associated with Jackson. “It was a big moment in history,” Jackson said after 12 years, the Gaudian reported.&nbsp;During the Covid pandemic, he campaigned against disparities in care and outcomes, asking: “After 400 years of slavery, segregation and discrimination, why would anybody be shocked that African Americans are dying disproportionately from the coronavirus?”&nbsp;He also said that successive presidents had fallen short of eradicating what he described as the “virus of white supremacy” and addressing the complex challenges faced by African Americans. &nbsp;

Rev Jesse Jackson was a fixture in the civil rights movement and Democratic politics since the 1960s. He was also once close to Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Meanwhile, the cause of his death is still unknown.

The Rev Jesse Jackson, a prominent personality in the civil rights movement for more than 50 years and a key contender for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988, has passed away at the age of 84. “Our father was a servant leader – not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” the Jackson family said. “We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honour his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by," the family added. The cause of his death is still unknown. Jackson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease For over a decade, Jackson had progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), who was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He was also admitted to the hospital twice with Covid in recent years. Rev Jesse Jackson was a fixture in the civil rights movement and Democratic politics since the 1960s. He was also once close to Dr Martin Luther King Jr. “I was a trailblazer, I was a pathfinder. I had to deal with doubt, cynicism and fears about a Black person running. There were Black scholars writing papers about why I was wasting my time. Even Blacks said a Black couldn’t win," Jackson told the Guardian in May 2020. Two decades after Jackson’s second presidential bid, Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, paid tribute to him, saying Jackson helped pave the way for his own historic victory. Obama marked the moment in Chicago, a city closely associated with Jackson. “It was a big moment in history,” Jackson said after 12 years, the Gaudian reported. During the Covid pandemic, he campaigned against disparities in care and outcomes, asking: “After 400 years of slavery, segregation and discrimination, why would anybody be shocked that African Americans are dying disproportionately from the coronavirus?” He also said that successive presidents had fallen short of eradicating what he described as the “virus of white supremacy” and addressing the complex challenges faced by African Americans.

Rev Jesse Jackson was a fixture in the civil rights movement and Democratic politics since the 1960s. He was also once close to Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Meanwhile, the cause of his death is still unknown.

US civil rights icon Rev Jesse Jackson passes away at 84

Suchir Balaji's parents are demanding a reinvestigation into the death of the OpenAI whistleblower. In an interview with the Fox entity KTVU, Poornima Ramarao is alleging foul play. According to Ramarao, Balaji's place was ransacked, his pen drive was missing, and his computer was left open for three days.Suchir Balaji, a 26-year-old former researcher for OpenAI who turned whistleblower, was about to testify in court when he was found dead in his San Francisco apartment on November 26, 2024. Police said it appeared to be a suicide, and the city's Chief Medical Examiner declared it a suicide.&nbsp;&nbsp;But parents of Suchir Balaji, his mother Poornima Ramarao and father Balaji Ramamurthy, strongly contested this ruling. "You can see how happy he is. We want the world to see his happy mood just before his death," said Balaji's mother, "The pin drive is missing. His computer was messed up. His desktop was left on for three days. It’s messed up." She further added that there were “signs of struggle in the bathroom, and it looks like someone hit him in the bathroom based on blood spots.”&nbsp;She accused OpenAI of threatening him. “They didn’t allow him to work somewhere else. He also consulted a copyright attorney and figured out that he was not doing anything wrong and they were just suppressing him.” OpenAI, following his death, offered condolences in a statement and said that they first became aware of his concern after the Newyork Times published his statement.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anthropic-ai-researcher-mrinank-sharma-resigns-to-study-poetry-1770904828162">Anthropic AI safety researcher quits to study poetry warns 'world is in peril'</a>Suchir gave an explosive interview to the New York Times following his resignation in August 2024, where he accused OpenAI of violating copyright policies by training its model on a huge amount of internal data of creators and artists. He further added that Generative AI does not reflect the data on which it was trained. According to him, “it was doing more harm than good”. He was about to testify in court. According to a Times lawyers he was named as someone who might have “unique and relevant documents” supporting allegations of OpenAI’s willful copyright infringement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This doesn’t seem like a suicide&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1873367418556612894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Balaji's parents commissioned a private autopsy. The second autopsy, the toxicology report and the bullet trajectory suggested that Suchir couldn't have been able to shoot himself due to the massive levels of GHB in his system. GHB is known as the date-rape drug, as it significantly incapacitates the individual, and incapacitated people usually do not shoot themselves. Further, the blood spatter pattern is inconsistent with a person shooting himself and also, the wires to his security camera were cut off.OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, in an interview with Tucker Carlson, claimed that it looks like a suicide to him. Carlson disagreed, "No, he was definitely murdered.&nbsp;

Suchir Balaji's parents, Poornima Ramarao and Balaji Ramamurthy, are seeking a reinvestigation into the death of an OpenAI whistleblower who was about testify on OpenAI's “wilful copyright infringement”

Suchir Balaji's parents are demanding a reinvestigation into the death of the OpenAI whistleblower. In an interview with the Fox entity KTVU, Poornima Ramarao is alleging foul play. According to Ramarao, Balaji's place was ransacked, his pen drive was missing, and his computer was left open for three days. Suchir Balaji, a 26-year-old former researcher for OpenAI who turned whistleblower, was about to testify in court when he was found dead in his San Francisco apartment on November 26, 2024. Police said it appeared to be a suicide, and the city's Chief Medical Examiner declared it a suicide. But parents of Suchir Balaji, his mother Poornima Ramarao and father Balaji Ramamurthy, strongly contested this ruling. "You can see how happy he is. We want the world to see his happy mood just before his death," said Balaji's mother, "The pin drive is missing. His computer was messed up. His desktop was left on for three days. It’s messed up." She further added that there were “signs of struggle in the bathroom, and it looks like someone hit him in the bathroom based on blood spots.” She accused OpenAI of threatening him. “They didn’t allow him to work somewhere else. He also consulted a copyright attorney and figured out that he was not doing anything wrong and they were just suppressing him.” OpenAI, following his death, offered condolences in a statement and said that they first became aware of his concern after the Newyork Times published his statement. Also read: Anthropic AI safety researcher quits to study poetry warns 'world is in peril' Suchir gave an explosive interview to the New York Times following his resignation in August 2024, where he accused OpenAI of violating copyright policies by training its model on a huge amount of internal data of creators and artists. He further added that Generative AI does not reflect the data on which it was trained. According to him, “it was doing more harm than good”. He was about to testify in court. According to a Times lawyers he was named as someone who might have “unique and relevant documents” supporting allegations of OpenAI’s willful copyright infringement.

Suchir Balaji's parents, Poornima Ramarao and Balaji Ramamurthy, are seeking a reinvestigation into the death of the OpenAI whistleblower who was about testify on OpenAI's “wilful copyright infringement”

Suchir Balaji's parents seek reinvestigation into OpenAI whistleblower's death

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister on Tuesday (February 17), taking charge of the country’s first elected government since the deadly 2024 uprising. The 60-year-old leader now faces a formidable agenda that includes restoring security, bridging deep political divisions, and reviving an economy shaken by prolonged unrest in the world’s second-largest garment exporter.&nbsp;Rahman succeeds an interim administration that governed the country of 170 million people for 18 months following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. During a ceremony held outside parliament and broadcast on state television, President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office. Pledging to uphold the law and faithfully carry out his duties, Rahman described his party’s landslide win in the February 12 election as a triumph for democracy and for citizens who had struggled to defend it. Leader of the BNP and heir to a powerful political dynasty, he secured a commanding mandate that he says will be used to stabilise the country and restore economic growth after months of turmoil that unsettled investors.&nbsp;Rahman stressed the need for unity in a nation long marked by intense political rivalry. He acknowledged inheriting a weakened economy, fragile institutions, and deteriorating law and order, which he attributed to years of authoritarian rule. Following his swearing-in, members of his cabinet took their oaths, after lawmakers had earlier been sworn into parliament by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin and selected Rahman as their parliamentary leader.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-eyes-major-rafale-expansion-deal-amid-macron-modi-meeting-check-top-agenda-on-table-1771308383211">India eyes major Rafale expansion deal amid Macron-Modi meeting: Check top agenda on table</a><h2>Political landscape</h2>Rahman’s return to power marks a dramatic comeback. He came back to Bangladesh only in December after spending 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom. The BNP-led alliance captured 212 seats in parliament, far ahead of the 77 won by the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc. Jamaat, which significantly increased its representation and now holds more than a quarter of parliamentary seats, has contested results in 32 constituencies. Still, its leader, Shafiqur Rahman, pledged that the party would act as a vigilant and peaceful opposition.&nbsp;Hasina’s Awami League was barred from participating in the vote and from exile in India, Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, condemned the election as illegitimate. In contrast, India welcomed the BNP’s decisive victory, signaling a shift after previously strained relations.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-tehran-producer-dana-eden-found-dead-in-athens-hotel-1771316982848/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-tehran-producer-dana-eden-found-dead-in-athens-hotel-1771316982848/embed</a>&nbsp;Women’s representation remained limited, with only seven directly elected, though an additional 50 reserved seats will be distributed proportionally among parties. Four lawmakers from minority communities secured seats, including two from the Hindu minority, which accounts for about seven percent of the predominantly Muslim population. Although tensions ran high in the lead-up to the vote, election day proceeded largely peacefully, and the aftermath has been relatively calm. Analysts suggest that effective economic management will be key to consolidating stability and enabling the government to address broader challenges.

Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh's new PM after massive win

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister on Tuesday (February 17), taking charge of the country’s first elected government since the deadly 2024 uprising. The 60-year-old leader now faces a formidable agenda that includes restoring security, bridging deep political divisions, and reviving an economy shaken by prolonged unrest in the world’s second-largest garment exporter. Rahman succeeds an interim administration that governed the country of 170 million people for 18 months following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. During a ceremony held outside parliament and broadcast on state television, President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office. Pledging to uphold the law and faithfully carry out his duties, Rahman described his party’s landslide win in the February 12 election as a triumph for democracy and for citizens who had struggled to defend it. Leader of the BNP and heir to a powerful political dynasty, he secured a commanding mandate that he says will be used to stabilise the country and restore economic growth after months of turmoil that unsettled investors. Rahman stressed the need for unity in a nation long marked by intense political rivalry. He acknowledged inheriting a weakened economy, fragile institutions, and deteriorating law and order, which he attributed to years of authoritarian rule. Following his swearing-in, members of his cabinet took their oaths, after lawmakers had earlier been sworn into parliament by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin and selected Rahman as their parliamentary leader. Also Read: India eyes major Rafale expansion deal amid Macron-Modi meeting: Check top agenda on table Political landscape Rahman’s return to power marks a dramatic comeback. He came back to Bangladesh only in December after spending 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom. The BNP-led alliance captured 212 seats in parliament, far ahead of the 77 won by the Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc. Jamaat, which significantly increased its representation and now holds more than a quarter of parliamentary seats, has contested results in 32 constituencies. Still, its leader, Shafiqur Rahman, pledged that the party would act as a vigilant and peaceful opposition. Hasina’s Awami League was barred from participating in the vote and from exile in India, Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, condemned the election as illegitimate. In contrast, India welcomed the BNP’s decisive victory, signaling a shift after previously strained relations. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-tehran-producer-dana-eden-found-dead-in-athens-hotel-1771316982848/embed Women’s representation remained limited, with only seven directly elected, though an additional 50 reserved seats will be distributed proportionally among parties. Four lawmakers from minority communities secured seats, including two from the Hindu minority, which accounts for about seven percent of the predominantly Muslim population. Although tensions ran high in the lead-up to the vote, election day proceeded largely peacefully, and the aftermath has been relatively calm. Analysts suggest that effective economic management will be key to consolidating stability and enabling the government to address broader challenges.

The BNP secured a sweeping win in the recently concluded Bangladesh elections. Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the new PM of the country by President Mohammed Shahabuddin

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday (February 17, 2026) with First Lady Brigitte Macron for a three-day visit to India. Both were welcomed by Maharashtra leaders, including CM Devendra Fadnavis and Governor Acharya Devvrat. President Macron will meet PM Narendra Modi for bilateral talks focusing especially on a potential multibillion-dollar Dassault Rafale fighter jet deal and cooperation in artificial intelligence.&nbsp;The deal is likely to include 114 additional French fighter jets; however, the PMO statement did not specify the exact number of jets New Delhi would purchase. According to a report in NDTV, India has approved a proposal worth Rs 3.25 lakh crore. In this proposal, New Delhi will procure 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking the biggest defence acquisition in the country's history.&nbsp;If the deal is finalised, the new jets would supplement the 36 Rafales fighters India bought for its air force in 2016 and the 26 already ordered for the navy. Talks with manufacturer Dassault Aviation are still underway, though the French presidency has expressed confidence that a deal it has described as “historic” could be finalised.&nbsp;WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-fears-trigger-global-tech-selloff-indian-it-stocks-see-worst-fall-since-2008-1771303450617/embedd<h3>What's on the agenda?</h3>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are scheduled to hold bilateral talks at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai around 3:15 pm on Tuesday. Beyond the Rafale discussions, the talks will cover defence, space, nuclear energy, climate change, education, and emerging technologies, with multiple agreements expected during Macron’s three-day visit, according to a TOI report.&nbsp;The Prime Minister’s Office said the leaders will review progress under the India–France Strategic Partnership and explore ways to deepen cooperation, particularly in future-focused sectors. At about 5:15 pm, the two leaders will jointly launch the India–France Year of Innovation 2026 and address an audience of business leaders, startup founders, researchers, and innovators from both nations. Meanwhile, at 12:30 PM, Macron expected to pay tribute to 26/11 victims.&nbsp;They will also inaugurate India’s first helicopter final assembly line via videoconference, a joint venture between the Tata Group and Airbus. Located in Vemagal near Bengaluru in Karnataka, the facility will manufacture the Airbus H125, the company’s best-selling single-engine helicopter.&nbsp;The French President will also participate in the AI Impact Summit hosted by India on February 18 and 19. Along with bilateral talks, they will also hold discussions on global issues like the Indo-Pacific, Ukraine, and Gaza.&nbsp;Additionally, the talks are expected to touch on global economic uncertainty triggered by tariff policies under US President Donald Trump, as well as China's growing influence in the region. The PMO said the focus would be on strengthening and diversifying the strategic partnership into new and emerging areas. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ai-impact-summit-2026-pm-modi-engages-with-startups-tech-leaders-at-landmark-ai-event-1771255455630">AI Impact Summit 2026: PM Modi engages with startups, tech leaders at landmark AI event</a>

Beyond the Rafale discussions, French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will discuss space, nuclear energy, climate change, education, and emerging technologies, with multiple agreements expected during Macron’s three-day visit.

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday (February 17, 2026) with First Lady Brigitte Macron for a three-day visit to India. Both were welcomed by Maharashtra leaders, including CM Devendra Fadnavis and Governor Acharya Devvrat. President Macron will meet PM Narendra Modi for bilateral talks focusing especially on a potential multibillion-dollar Dassault Rafale fighter jet deal and cooperation in artificial intelligence. The deal is likely to include 114 additional French fighter jets; however, the PMO statement did not specify the exact number of jets New Delhi would purchase. According to a report in NDTV, India has approved a proposal worth Rs 3.25 lakh crore. In this proposal, New Delhi will procure 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking the biggest defence acquisition in the country's history. If the deal is finalised, the new jets would supplement the 36 Rafales fighters India bought for its air force in 2016 and the 26 already ordered for the navy. Talks with manufacturer Dassault Aviation are still underway, though the French presidency has expressed confidence that a deal it has described as “historic” could be finalised. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-fears-trigger-global-tech-selloff-indian-it-stocks-see-worst-fall-since-2008-1771303450617/embedd What's on the agenda? Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are scheduled to hold bilateral talks at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai around 3:15 pm on Tuesday. Beyond the Rafale discussions, the talks will cover defence, space, nuclear energy, climate change, education, and emerging technologies, with multiple agreements expected during Macron’s three-day visit, according to a TOI report. The Prime Minister’s Office said the leaders will review progress under the India–France Strategic Partnership and explore ways to deepen cooperation, particularly in future-focused sectors. At about 5:15 pm, the two leaders will jointly launch the India–France Year of Innovation 2026 and address an audience of business leaders, startup founders, researchers, and innovators from both nations. Meanwhile, at 12:30 PM, Macron expected to pay tribute to 26/11 victims. They will also inaugurate India’s first helicopter final assembly line via videoconference, a joint venture between the Tata Group and Airbus. Located in Vemagal near Bengaluru in Karnataka, the facility will manufacture the Airbus H125, the company’s best-selling single-engine helicopter. The French President will also participate in the AI Impact Summit hosted by India on February 18 and 19. Along with bilateral talks, they will also hold discussions on global issues like the Indo-Pacific, Ukraine, and Gaza. Additionally, the talks are expected to touch on global economic uncertainty triggered by tariff policies under US President Donald Trump, as well as China's growing influence in the region. The PMO said the focus would be on strengthening and diversifying the strategic partnership into new and emerging areas. Also read: AI Impact Summit 2026: PM Modi engages with startups, tech leaders at landmark AI event

Beyond the Rafale discussions, French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will discuss space, nuclear energy, climate change, education, and emerging technologies, with multiple agreements expected during Macron’s three-day visit.

India eyes major Rafale expansion deal amid Macron-Modi meeting: Check top agenda on table

Donald Trump has again denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein, insisting he was cleared of wrongdoing. While officials say all related files are released, political disputes continue over their contents, with conflicting claims about Trump’s past association and mentions in documents.

'I've been...': Trump's BIG statement on links with 'terrific guy' Epstein amid backlash over redacted documents

New Mexico lawmakers have approved a comprehensive investigation to reveal the total extent of activities at the Zorro Ranch. The New Mexico House, on Monday, in a bipartisan vote, established a “Truth Commission” to "fill in the gaps" in the horrific allegations of crime and abuse against girls and women at the Zorro Ranch in Santa Fe."We have heard years of allegations and rumours about Epstein’s activities in New Mexico, but unfortunately, federal investigations have failed to put together an official record," said Rep Andrea Romero. The lawmakers are urging locals to testify. The so-called “Truth Commission”, comprised of four lawmakers are planning to question state officials who were aware or participated in the mishappenings at the 7,500-acre sprawling property. The $2.5 million investigation poses a threat to two former Democratic Governors and an Attorney General. They had ties to the late sex trafficker Epstein, who supposedly died of “suicide” in 2019.&nbsp;The New Mexico ranch was the location where Annie Farmer was flown from out of state and groomed for abuse by Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. The Ranch, located 50 miles away from Santa Fe, is sparsely populated, establishing a pattern of isolation that the victims were subjected to. Since Epstein's death, it was purchased for an undisclosed fee by Donald Huffines, a former GOP state senator and a Texas businessman.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-valentines-phishing-fundraising-emails-1771249812958">'Do you still love me?'- Trump's aggressive fundraising campaigns to boost donations</a>The New Mexico Justice Department sent a letter to the federal officials on February 13, in response to the seeking unredacted copies of the anonymous 2019 email to a local radio host saying that “foreign girls” died of strangulation at Zorro Ranch.“While we have not yet received a response to our letter sent last Friday, we are reviewing all appropriate avenues to investigate the allegations raised, as well as any additional ones that may emerge,” said New Mexico DOJ Chief of Staff Lauren Rodriguez.A New York Times report in July 2019 claimed that the Ranch was at the centre of Epstein's obsession with eugenics, transhumanism and cryogenics. He once mentioned to impregante 20 girls simultaneously at the Zorro ranch. His messages to the Florida Sex Offenders office following his conviction prove that Epstein used the Ranch as an extended retreat between 2009 and 2015.&nbsp;“He was basically doing anything he wanted in this state without any accountability whatsoever,” said Rep Andrea Romero. The “Truth Commission” is likely to start its fact-finding mission on Tuesday and produce its first report by mid-July and final report by the end of 2026.&nbsp;

New Mexico lawmakers have approved a $2.5 million "Truth Commission" to investigate Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged crimes and activities at Zorro Ranch. The late sex trafficker spent significant time in the sprawling mansion since his conviction in 2008. 

New Mexico lawmakers have approved a comprehensive investigation to reveal the total extent of activities at the Zorro Ranch. The New Mexico House, on Monday, in a bipartisan vote, established a “Truth Commission” to "fill in the gaps" in the horrific allegations of crime and abuse against girls and women at the Zorro Ranch in Santa Fe. "We have heard years of allegations and rumours about Epstein’s activities in New Mexico, but unfortunately, federal investigations have failed to put together an official record," said Rep Andrea Romero. The lawmakers are urging locals to testify. The so-called “Truth Commission”, comprised of four lawmakers are planning to question state officials who were aware or participated in the mishappenings at the 7,500-acre sprawling property. The $2.5 million investigation poses a threat to two former Democratic Governors and an Attorney General. They had ties to the late sex trafficker Epstein, who supposedly died of “suicide” in 2019. The New Mexico ranch was the location where Annie Farmer was flown from out of state and groomed for abuse by Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. The Ranch, located 50 miles away from Santa Fe, is sparsely populated, establishing a pattern of isolation that the victims were subjected to. Since Epstein's death, it was purchased for an undisclosed fee by Donald Huffines, a former GOP state senator and a Texas businessman. Also Read: 'Do you still love me?'- Trump's aggressive fundraising campaigns to boost donations The New Mexico Justice Department sent a letter to the federal officials on February 13, in response to the seeking unredacted copies of the anonymous 2019 email to a local radio host saying that “foreign girls” died of strangulation at Zorro Ranch. “While we have not yet received a response to our letter sent last Friday, we are reviewing all appropriate avenues to investigate the allegations raised, as well as any additional ones that may emerge,” said New Mexico DOJ Chief of Staff Lauren Rodriguez. A New York Times report in July 2019 claimed that the Ranch was at the centre of Epstein's obsession with eugenics, transhumanism and cryogenics. He once mentioned to impregante 20 girls simultaneously at the Zorro ranch. His messages to the Florida Sex Offenders office following his conviction prove that Epstein used the Ranch as an extended retreat between 2009 and 2015. “He was basically doing anything he wanted in this state without any accountability whatsoever,” said Rep Andrea Romero. The “Truth Commission” is likely to start its fact-finding mission on Tuesday and produce its first report by mid-July and final report by the end of 2026.

New Mexico lawmakers have approved a $2.5 million "Truth Commission" to investigate Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged crimes and activities at Zorro Ranch. The late sex trafficker spent significant time in the sprawling mansion since his conviction in 2008.&nbsp;

New Mexico lawmakers approve ‘Truth Commission’ to probe Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch activities

The 13th parliamentary elections in Bangladesh has given a stunning mandate to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Tarique Rahman, belonging to one of the most powerful political family in the country, who returned to the country after 17 years in exile, is set to become the prime minister. This was the first elections in the country in the absence of ‘Two Begums.’ Khaleda Zia is no more and Sheikh Hasina is in India after she was ousted from power in 2024 uprising. Ahead of the polls, Tarique Rahman had pitched for a “new Bangladesh" and it is quite evident that the voters trusted him. However, will he make space for Awami League (AL) and Sheikh Hasina in his new Bangladesh? This is a question that analysts say would define the politics of Bangladesh in coming days. Going by the pattern, vendetta has been a large part of the country's mainstream politics. Whether Tarique Rahman also follows the old patterns or proves himself to be different, only time can tell. For now, Rahman has said that Hasina's extradition from India would depend on the legal process. Senior leader from his party Salahuddin Ahmed, however, confirmed that the party will formally urge India to hand over Hasina to stand trial.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-next-pm-tarique-rahman-faces-major-challenges-ahead-1771256685508/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-next-pm-tarique-rahman-faces-major-challenges-ahead-1771256685508/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>The Rise of Jamaat</h2>Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) has won 68 seats and secured approximately 31.76 per cent votes. Its total seat count along with allies is 11. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman called this performance a foundation and not a setback even as the party fell short of forming the next Bangladeshi government. But why does Shafiqur Rahman sees this performance by Jamaat as a foundation? It is because electorally this is indeed Jamaat's best performance ever. The party did not contest polls in between 2014 to 2018. In 2008, it secured only 4.7 per cent votes and two seats. It's previous best performance was in 1991 when the party won 18 seats and got a vote share of approximately 12 per cent.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jamaat actively supported the student uprising against Hasina in 2024. Jamaat-backed student organisations popularised the party's idealogy among GenZs. Its pre-poll alliance with The National Citizen Party (NCP), formed by prominent student leaders like Nahid Islam and Hasnat Abdullah, who played a key role in 2024 student uprising, helped the party to build its own grassroots base. Its popularity rose with the support of several Islamist groups that came to forefront after Hasina's exit. The public anger against India in post-Hasina Bangladesh also helped Jamaat even as the party adopted a more inclusive image and went on to field a Hindu candidate. With public sentiments largely in its favour, the growth story of Jamaat continues even after the poll loss.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-invites-india-and-12-other-nations-to-tarique-rahman-s-cabinet-oath-ceremony-1771096731770">Bangladesh invites India and 12 other nations to Tarique Rahman’s cabinet oath ceremony</a>&nbsp;Tarique Rahman may well be aware of Jamaat's growth story. Even before his swearing-in, he met Jamaat's chief Shafiqur Rahman to cajole his support. Though Shafiqur Rahman has extended his party's support for now, it has added a rider, saying it would speak in matters where accountability is required. &nbsp;Ideologically, Jamaat is opposite to both AL and BNP as it has historically not supported the existence of a secular Bangladesh. With the rise of Islamists in the country rife with multiple incidents of attacks on minorities, it is important for Tarique Rahman to keep the rise of Jamaat in check. The absence of Hasina's AL from the political scenario only gives Jamaat a vacant space to fill, Rahman should know.<h2>AL voters who have trusted BNP</h2>In the recently concluded elections, BNP has successfully filled the vacuum created due to the absence of AL. Several analysts pointed out that a significant segment of the AL voter base shifted their support to the BNP. As per a pre-poll analysis, approximately 48.2 per cent of former AL voters indicated support for the BNP. For AL voters, BNP was a natural choice as both BNP and AL are based on the secular and nationalist foundations of the 1971 Liberation War. Tarique Rahman’s pitch for a "equal Bangladesh" with place for all proved to be a safe option than staunch Islamist conservatism of Jamaat. With the AL gone, the BNP remained the only centrist party with the organisational capacity to form a stable government, attracting voters who prioritised governance over ideology. Now, these voters wants Tarique Rahman to avoid past vendetta and give them a chance in the new Bangladesh that he is building.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-bjp-actually-won-in-bangladesh-elections-here-s-the-truth-1771147183190">Did BJP actually win a seat in Bangladesh Elections? Here's the truth</a><h3>Khaleda vs Hasina&nbsp;</h3>Analysts point out that Tarique Rahman has witnessed the injustice done to his family by Hasina and he might not be open to provide her concessions yet. As Hasina consolidated her power after 2008 elections, barrage of cases against Khaleda Zia followed. In 2011, the neutral caretaker government system, that oversaw elections, was abolished. The BNP cried foul and boycotted the 2014 and 2024 general elections. Reports of ballot stuffing occurring the night before official voting surfaced after 2018 election. In the same year, Zia was sentenced to 17 years in prison in the Zia Orphanage Trust and Zia Charitable Trust cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The three-time PM was sent to an abandoned Old Dhaka Central Jail where she served as the only inmate for over two years. Despite her rank as a former PM and senior citizen, the BNP alleged she was initially denied "division" status. In March 2020, her sentence was suspended due to ill health, but she was moved to house arrest with strict conditions, including a ban on political activity. Moreover, Hasina rejected at least 18 requests from Zia’s family to allow her to travel abroad for treatment. Tarique Rahman was also sentenced in absentia to life imprisonment for his alleged role in the 2004 grenade attack in a Awami League rally. Some reports also state that an estimated half of the BNP's 5 million members faced some form of politically motivated prosecution during this period.&nbsp;Is Tarique Rahman ready to forget the vendetta unleashed upon his family and his party during Hasina's tenure? Is he ready to give Awami League and Sheikh Hasina a chance in the new Bangladesh? Will he calculate the risks of letting Jamaat flourish in Bangladesh, despite knowing the public anger against India and Jamaat's historical closeness to Pakistan? Can UK-return Tarique Rahman be the statesman who values “rule of law” more than anything else? As of now, we can only wait and watch.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bangladesh’s election has propelled Tarique Rahman to power after years in exile, amid the absence of Hasina and Khaleda Zia. While BNP secured a strong mandate, Jamaat’s rise and sidelining of Awami League raise key questions about inclusion, political balance, and future stability.

The 13th parliamentary elections in Bangladesh has given a stunning mandate to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Tarique Rahman, belonging to one of the most powerful political family in the country, who returned to the country after 17 years in exile, is set to become the prime minister. This was the first elections in the country in the absence of ‘Two Begums.’ Khaleda Zia is no more and Sheikh Hasina is in India after she was ousted from power in 2024 uprising. Ahead of the polls, Tarique Rahman had pitched for a “new Bangladesh" and it is quite evident that the voters trusted him. However, will he make space for Awami League (AL) and Sheikh Hasina in his new Bangladesh? This is a question that analysts say would define the politics of Bangladesh in coming days. Going by the pattern, vendetta has been a large part of the country's mainstream politics. Whether Tarique Rahman also follows the old patterns or proves himself to be different, only time can tell. For now, Rahman has said that Hasina's extradition from India would depend on the legal process. Senior leader from his party Salahuddin Ahmed, however, confirmed that the party will formally urge India to hand over Hasina to stand trial. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-next-pm-tarique-rahman-faces-major-challenges-ahead-1771256685508/embed The Rise of Jamaat Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) has won 68 seats and secured approximately 31.76 per cent votes. Its total seat count along with allies is 11. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman called this performance a foundation and not a setback even as the party fell short of forming the next Bangladeshi government. But why does Shafiqur Rahman sees this performance by Jamaat as a foundation? It is because electorally this is indeed Jamaat's best performance ever. The party did not contest polls in between 2014 to 2018. In 2008, it secured only 4.7 per cent votes and two seats. It's previous best performance was in 1991 when the party won 18 seats and got a vote share of approximately 12 per cent. Jamaat actively supported the student uprising against Hasina in 2024. Jamaat-backed student organisations popularised the party's idealogy among GenZs. Its pre-poll alliance with The National Citizen Party (NCP), formed by prominent student leaders like Nahid Islam and Hasnat Abdullah, who played a key role in 2024 student uprising, helped the party to build its own grassroots base. Its popularity rose with the support of several Islamist groups that came to forefront after Hasina's exit. The public anger against India in post-Hasina Bangladesh also helped Jamaat even as the party adopted a more inclusive image and went on to field a Hindu candidate. With public sentiments largely in its favour, the growth story of Jamaat continues even after the poll loss. Also Read: Bangladesh invites India and 12 other nations to Tarique Rahman’s cabinet oath ceremony Tarique Rahman may well be aware of Jamaat's growth story. Even before his swearing-in, he met Jamaat's chief Shafiqur Rahman to cajole his support. Though Shafiqur Rahman has extended his party's support for now, it has added a rider, saying it would speak in matters where accountability is required. Ideologically, Jamaat is opposite to both AL and BNP as it has historically not supported the existence of a secular Bangladesh. With the rise of Islamists in the country rife with multiple incidents of attacks on minorities, it is important for Tarique Rahman to keep the rise of Jamaat in check. The absence of Hasina's AL from the political scenario only gives Jamaat a vacant space to fill, Rahman should know. AL voters who have trusted BNP In the recently concluded elections, BNP has successfully filled the vacuum created due to the absence of AL. Several analysts pointed out that a significant segment of the AL voter base shifted their support to the BNP. As per a pre-poll analysis, approximately 48.2 per cent of former AL voters indicated support for the BNP. For AL voters, BNP was a natural choice as both BNP and AL are based on the secular and nationalist foundations of the 1971 Liberation War. Tarique Rahman’s pitch for a "equal Bangladesh" with place for all proved to be a safe option than staunch Islamist conservatism of Jamaat. With the AL gone, the BNP remained the only centrist party with the organisational capacity to form a stable government, attracting voters who prioritised governance over ideology. Now, these voters wants Tarique Rahman to avoid past vendetta and give them a chance in the new Bangladesh that he is building. Also Read: Did BJP actually win a seat in Bangladesh Elections? Here's the truth Khaleda vs Hasina Analysts point out that Tarique Rahman has witnessed the injustice done to his family by Hasina and he might not be open to provide her concessions yet. As Hasina consolidated her power after 2008 elections, barrage of cases against Khaleda Zia followed. In 2011, the neutral caretaker government system, that oversaw elections, was abolished. The BNP cried foul and boycotted the 2014 and 2024 general elections. Reports of ballot stuffing occurring the night before official voting surfaced after 2018 election. In the same year, Zia was sentenced to 17 years in prison in the Zia Orphanage Trust and Zia Charitable Trust cases. The three-time PM was sent to an abandoned Old Dhaka Central Jail where she served as the only inmate for over two years. Despite her rank as a former PM and senior citizen, the BNP alleged she was initially denied "division" status. In March 2020, her sentence was suspended due to ill health, but she was moved to house arrest with strict conditions, including a ban on political activity. Moreover, Hasina rejected at least 18 requests from Zia’s family to allow her to travel abroad for treatment. Tarique Rahman was also sentenced in absentia to life imprisonment for his alleged role in the 2004 grenade attack in a Awami League rally. Some reports also state that an estimated half of the BNP's 5 million members faced some form of politically motivated prosecution during this period. Is Tarique Rahman ready to forget the vendetta unleashed upon his family and his party during Hasina's tenure? Is he ready to give Awami League and Sheikh Hasina a chance in the new Bangladesh? Will he calculate the risks of letting Jamaat flourish in Bangladesh, despite knowing the public anger against India and Jamaat's historical closeness to Pakistan? Can UK-return Tarique Rahman be the statesman who values “rule of law” more than anything else? As of now, we can only wait and watch.

Bangladesh’s election has propelled Tarique Rahman to power after years in exile, amid the absence of Hasina and Khaleda Zia. While BNP secured a strong mandate, Jamaat’s rise and sidelining of Awami League raise key questions about inclusion, political balance, and future stability.

Will Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League find space in Tarique Rahman’s ‘new Bangladesh’ amid Jamaat’s rise?

Chief executive of Anthropic, Dario Amodei, said on Monday (Feb 16, 2026) that artificial intelligence will produce significant value but also lead to substantial economic disruption, and requested the lawmakers to ensure broad-based benefits as the technology advances.&nbsp;While addressing the maiden edition of Anthropic’s Builder Summit in Bengaluru, Amodei stated that India, being the world’s largest democracy, has an opportunity to deploy AI to make governance more efficient and citizen-centric. “That’s a really valuable use of the technology," he said, News 18 reported.&nbsp;Anthropic, valued at about $380 billion, has seen strong enterprise adoption of its AI offerings, especially for boosting software development productivity. The company has recently rolled out new AI solutions aimed at legal, sales, and marketing teams—steps that came amid a sharp global sell-off in software and IT services stocks.&nbsp;Dario Amodei noted that while AI is driving significant efficiency gains, it is also likely to trigger major economic disruption, highlighting the importance of policies that promote broadly shared prosperity.<h3>India shows unusually high intensity in AI adoption</h3>His visit also coincided with the launch of Anthropic’s Bengaluru operations. Speaking to nearly 250 developers and entrepreneurs, Amodei said India shows unusually high intensity in AI adoption. He pointed to an example of India’s statistics ministry building an AI-powered system to query economic data, adding that governments in many other countries typically move far more slowly.&nbsp;Amodei stated that the business run-rate revenue of Anthropic in India has increased over the past four months, who also described the growth as “really incredible." He indicated the increase in the rapid progress and widespread adoption of Claude models and coding tools. He also added that the acceleration in India is stronger than in other markets.&nbsp;He pointed to India’s scale as a key advantage, allowing experimentation with hundreds of millions of users. The country’s linguistic diversity, he added, also creates opportunities to build multilingual tools. Claude is working to support a wide range of languages, enabling translation and interoperability across regions. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baramati-learjet-crash-aaib-seeks-global-help-to-recover-fire-damaged-cockpit-voice-recorder-data-1771313572686">Baramati Learjet crash: AAIB seeks global help to recover fire-damaged cockpit voice recorder data</a>

While addressing the maiden edition of Anthropic’s Builder Summit in Bengaluru, the Chief Executive of Anthropic, Dario Amodei, stated that India, being the world’s largest democracy, has an opportunity to deploy AI to make governance more efficient and citizen-centric.

Chief executive of Anthropic, Dario Amodei, said on Monday (Feb 16, 2026) that artificial intelligence will produce significant value but also lead to substantial economic disruption, and requested the lawmakers to ensure broad-based benefits as the technology advances. While addressing the maiden edition of Anthropic’s Builder Summit in Bengaluru, Amodei stated that India, being the world’s largest democracy, has an opportunity to deploy AI to make governance more efficient and citizen-centric. “That’s a really valuable use of the technology," he said, News 18 reported. Anthropic, valued at about $380 billion, has seen strong enterprise adoption of its AI offerings, especially for boosting software development productivity. The company has recently rolled out new AI solutions aimed at legal, sales, and marketing teams—steps that came amid a sharp global sell-off in software and IT services stocks. Dario Amodei noted that while AI is driving significant efficiency gains, it is also likely to trigger major economic disruption, highlighting the importance of policies that promote broadly shared prosperity. India shows unusually high intensity in AI adoption His visit also coincided with the launch of Anthropic’s Bengaluru operations. Speaking to nearly 250 developers and entrepreneurs, Amodei said India shows unusually high intensity in AI adoption. He pointed to an example of India’s statistics ministry building an AI-powered system to query economic data, adding that governments in many other countries typically move far more slowly. Amodei stated that the business run-rate revenue of Anthropic in India has increased over the past four months, who also described the growth as “really incredible." He indicated the increase in the rapid progress and widespread adoption of Claude models and coding tools. He also added that the acceleration in India is stronger than in other markets. He pointed to India’s scale as a key advantage, allowing experimentation with hundreds of millions of users. The country’s linguistic diversity, he added, also creates opportunities to build multilingual tools. Claude is working to support a wide range of languages, enabling translation and interoperability across regions. Also read: Baramati Learjet crash: AAIB seeks global help to recover fire-damaged cockpit voice recorder data

While addressing the maiden edition of Anthropic’s Builder Summit in Bengaluru, the Chief Executive of Anthropic, Dario Amodei, stated that India, being the world’s largest democracy, has an opportunity to deploy AI to make governance more efficient and citizen-centric.

‘Big economic turmoil ahead’: Anthropic CEO calls for smarter AI policies in India

A “family dispute” at a school hockey tournament turned deadly in Rhode Island. Police identified the suspect as Robert Dorgan, who also went as trans, calling himself Roberta Esposito. The shocking arena shooting left families shattered. Scroll down for the disturbing details.

'Mentally sick' trans person Roberta Esposito identified as Rhode Island hockey arena shooting suspect | All we know - In Pics

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's sons have urged the Pakistani government to allow them to meet their ailing father, while expressing concern about his health report. Khan's sons Kasim and Sulaiman, who are currently in London, urged the Pakistani government to grant them visas as they have not seen their father since November 2022. They said that they applied for visas last month but have yet to receive a response. The request comes days after Khan's lawyer told Pakistan's Supreme Court that the ex-cricketer had lost significant vision in his right eye while in custody. However, a medical board set up by the Pakistani administration on Monday (Feb 16) said that the swelling had reduced after treatment and his vision had improved. This sparked another wave of protest by Khan's family and his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-medical-board-reports-imran-khan-s-vision-improving-after-lawyer-claimed-85-per-cent-vision-loss-1771253920183">Government Medical Board reports Imran Khan’s vision improving, after lawyer claimed 85 per cent vision loss</a><h2>What has Imran Khan's sons requested?</h2>Speaking to Reuters, Khan's sons, Kasim and Sulaiman, said that they soke to their father on Feb 12 for the first time since September. They said that their father usually avoids discussing his health, but during the call he expressed frustration, saying he had been denied treatment for his eye for a few months. Kasim requested the administration to a proper medical facility and have access to his private doctors. Revealing that they have applied for visas last month, they said that “establishment is worried that if we go and see him it would create more noise.” "Maybe the establishment is worried that if we go and see him it would create more noise, and just more attention to his situation," Sulaiman said, when asked why there could be a delay. Reuters reported that the Pakistani embassy in London and Pakistan's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Kasim also mentioned that there were other pressing issues, including “his freedom, abiding by correct human rights processes and also the rule of law and just ensuring that he's allowed a proper, fair trial.” Kasim asked PTI supporters to “keep faith and keep fighting.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-give-him-two-acs-maryam-nawaz-recalls-nawaz-s-generosity-toward-imran-khan-amid-opposition-s-mockery-1771253980763">'Give him two ACs': Maryam Nawaz recalls Nawaz Sharif’s 'generosity' toward Imran Khan amid Opposition’s mockery</a><h2>What we know about Imran Khan's life in jail?</h2>73-year-old Imran Khan is in jail since August 2023 after he was convicted in the Toshakhana corruption case. Since his 2022 ouster in a no-confidence vote, he has faced multiple cases. Some convictions have been suspended or overturned, with appeals pending. He denies wrongdoing. Recently Khan's lawyer Salman Safdar said to Pakistani Supreme Court that Khan is left with only 15 per cent vision in his right eye. The fact-finding report cited Khan as saying he had been complaining about "experiencing persistent blurred and hazy vision" since October 2025, but that jail authorities took no action. Safdar submitted his report after a two-hour meeting with Khan ordered by the Supreme Court, which set a February 16 deadline for authorities to allow Khan access to his personal physician for the report on his condition. In a statement, PTI demanded immediate and transparent implementation of the court's order, unrestricted access to qualified specialists, and an end to tactics that risk his life under custody.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/imran-khan-s-family-rejects-medical-report-protests-erupt-1771303504949/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/imran-khan-s-family-rejects-medical-report-protests-erupt-1771303504949/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;On Sunday (Feb 15), jail authorities said that Khan underwent an eye examination at Adiala Jail. But, Khan's family and party called the process ‘malicious.’ Even as reports said that the former PM was examined by a team of five doctors for about an hour, his sister Aleema Khanum said that no medical board would be accepted without the approval of his personal doctors and any treatment given to him should be in presence of his family members. "Why are they rejecting the supervision by Imran Khan's personal doctors? Why are they rejecting the presence of Imran Khan's family members? Why such fierce resistance? Are they hiding something?” Meanwhile, the Tehreek-i-Tahafuz-i-Ayin-i-Pakistan (TTAP) alliance continued its sit-in at Parliament House for the third day. PTI MNA Asad Qaiser told reporters, “We will not compromise on Imran's health." Senator Abbas said, “Prioritising any political disagreement over human compassion and medical needs is the worst form of oppression.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Imran Khan’s sons have raised concerns over his deteriorating health in jail, alleging delayed treatment for his eye condition. While authorities claimed improvement, his party and family rejected the govt claims and demanded independent medical care

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's sons have urged the Pakistani government to allow them to meet their ailing father, while expressing concern about his health report. Khan's sons Kasim and Sulaiman, who are currently in London, urged the Pakistani government to grant them visas as they have not seen their father since November 2022. They said that they applied for visas last month but have yet to receive a response. The request comes days after Khan's lawyer told Pakistan's Supreme Court that the ex-cricketer had lost significant vision in his right eye while in custody. However, a medical board set up by the Pakistani administration on Monday (Feb 16) said that the swelling had reduced after treatment and his vision had improved. This sparked another wave of protest by Khan's family and his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Also Read: Government Medical Board reports Imran Khan’s vision improving, after lawyer claimed 85 per cent vision loss What has Imran Khan's sons requested? Speaking to Reuters, Khan's sons, Kasim and Sulaiman, said that they soke to their father on Feb 12 for the first time since September. They said that their father usually avoids discussing his health, but during the call he expressed frustration, saying he had been denied treatment for his eye for a few months. Kasim requested the administration to a proper medical facility and have access to his private doctors. Revealing that they have applied for visas last month, they said that “establishment is worried that if we go and see him it would create more noise.” "Maybe the establishment is worried that if we go and see him it would create more noise, and just more attention to his situation," Sulaiman said, when asked why there could be a delay. Reuters reported that the Pakistani embassy in London and Pakistan's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Kasim also mentioned that there were other pressing issues, including “his freedom, abiding by correct human rights processes and also the rule of law and just ensuring that he's allowed a proper, fair trial.” Kasim asked PTI supporters to “keep faith and keep fighting.” Also Read: 'Give him two ACs': Maryam Nawaz recalls Nawaz Sharif’s 'generosity' toward Imran Khan amid Opposition’s mockery What we know about Imran Khan's life in jail? 73-year-old Imran Khan is in jail since August 2023 after he was convicted in the Toshakhana corruption case. Since his 2022 ouster in a no-confidence vote, he has faced multiple cases. Some convictions have been suspended or overturned, with appeals pending. He denies wrongdoing. Recently Khan's lawyer Salman Safdar said to Pakistani Supreme Court that Khan is left with only 15 per cent vision in his right eye. The fact-finding report cited Khan as saying he had been complaining about "experiencing persistent blurred and hazy vision" since October 2025, but that jail authorities took no action. Safdar submitted his report after a two-hour meeting with Khan ordered by the Supreme Court, which set a February 16 deadline for authorities to allow Khan access to his personal physician for the report on his condition. In a statement, PTI demanded immediate and transparent implementation of the court's order, unrestricted access to qualified specialists, and an end to tactics that risk his life under custody. https://www.wionews.com/videos/imran-khan-s-family-rejects-medical-report-protests-erupt-1771303504949/embed On Sunday (Feb 15), jail authorities said that Khan underwent an eye examination at Adiala Jail. But, Khan's family and party called the process ‘malicious.’ Even as reports said that the former PM was examined by a team of five doctors for about an hour, his sister Aleema Khanum said that no medical board would be accepted without the approval of his personal doctors and any treatment given to him should be in presence of his family members. "Why are they rejecting the supervision by Imran Khan's personal doctors? Why are they rejecting the presence of Imran Khan's family members? Why such fierce resistance? Are they hiding something?” Meanwhile, the Tehreek-i-Tahafuz-i-Ayin-i-Pakistan (TTAP) alliance continued its sit-in at Parliament House for the third day. PTI MNA Asad Qaiser told reporters, “We will not compromise on Imran's health." Senator Abbas said, “Prioritising any political disagreement over human compassion and medical needs is the worst form of oppression.”

Imran Khan’s sons have raised concerns over his deteriorating health in jail, alleging delayed treatment for his eye condition. While authorities claimed improvement, his party and family rejected the govt claims and demanded independent medical care

'Are they hiding something?': Imran Khan’s sons seek visas to visit him, sisters protest amid 'vision loss' claims

Newly released Epstein files reveal convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein was making <a href="https://jmail.world/eml/86abcf94591808e7ced1f96d62d3ec8e">quarterly payments</a> to the head of Ohio State University’s gynaecology department, Mark Landon. However, the nature of the services is not specified. The document of the correspondence is now unavailable in the Epstein library on the DOJ website. According to the correspondence, Landon received as much as $75000 &nbsp;each year. He also received several packages from Epstein's associates between 2001 and 2004 at his Columbus home, though the contents of the file were not detailed.Are we still paying Mark Landon? &nbsp;Eric was dealing with this, so I am not sure what was decided when the previous payment was made. Landon's agreement requires quarterly payments of $30k to be made to Landon on the 15th of January, April, July and October. &nbsp;The previous payment made to Landon was for $25,000 and not $30,000. The contract is terminable at will on 15 &nbsp;days' prior notice. &nbsp;Is NYSG to make payment to Landon by January 15th, and if so, for $25K or $30K?" wrote a man named Darren.Epstein replied, “75 per year”.&nbsp;

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Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-maxwell-emails-alan-dershowitz-claims-1771152984894">Epstein File tranche mentions recorded material, redacted official response raises eyebrows</a>&nbsp;Dr Mark Landon was a gynaecologist and obstetrician at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Centre. In a separate exchange dated “4/11/2025”, the message reads, “Dr Landon's $25k quartly payment is due, please approve.” “FYI: on the Dr Landon quarterly payments, we (NYSG) billed LHW/Abigail in advance as we have in prior years.” LHW and Abigail could not be independently verified. But LHW could be Les Herbert Wexner, and Abigail could be a reference to his wife, Abigail Wexner.&nbsp;However, Landon clarified on these correpondance, claiming that he was just providing correspondence to the New York Strategy Group for “potential biotech investments from 2001 to 2005”. The released Epstein file has several references to Epstein sending victims to Epstein, but those references do not point to Mark Landon.Les Wexner, a business partner and potential friend/co-conspirator, has apologised for having a relationship with Jeffrey Epstein till 2007. He has since claimed to have severed all ties with him and claims regret deeply "having ever crossed paths" with Epstein. Wexner was mentioned in the list of people who were politically exposed to Epstein, and several FBI memos point to him as one of the possible co-conspirators.&nbsp;

The newly released Epstein's mail has references to payments made to Dr Mark Landon, a gynaecologist and obstetrician at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Centre. 

Newly released Epstein files reveal convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein was making quarterly payments to the head of Ohio State University’s gynaecology department, Mark Landon. However, the nature of the services is not specified. The document of the correspondence is now unavailable in the Epstein library on the DOJ website. According to the correspondence, Landon received as much as $75000 each year. He also received several packages from Epstein's associates between 2001 and 2004 at his Columbus home, though the contents of the file were not detailed. Are we still paying Mark Landon? Eric was dealing with this, so I am not sure what was decided when the previous payment was made. Landon's agreement requires quarterly payments of $30k to be made to Landon on the 15th of January, April, July and October. The previous payment made to Landon was for $25,000 and not $30,000. The contract is terminable at will on 15 days' prior notice. Is NYSG to make payment to Landon by January 15th, and if so, for $25K or $30K?" wrote a man named Darren. Epstein replied, “75 per year”.

The newly released Epstein emails have references to payments made to Dr Mark Landon, a gynaecologist and obstetrician at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Centre.&nbsp;

‘75 per year’: Epstein emails show structured payments to Ohio State OB-GYN Mark Landon

Nancy Guthrie has been missing for 16 days with no clues about her whereabouts. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said that all of her family members have been cleared as suspects in her disappearance. Meanwhile, DNA results on a glove found at her door are being awaited and are expected to pin down the culprit. However, according to a retired FBI agent, this forensic development might not be the final nail that many are expecting. "To be clear…the Guthrie family &nbsp;– &nbsp;to include all siblings and spouses – &nbsp;has been cleared as possible suspects in this case," Nanos said in a Monday afternoon statement. "The family has been nothing but cooperative and gracious and are victims in this case." Notably, Nancy's son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, the husband of Savannah Guthrie’s sister, Annie, was being flagged as a suspect by some people, especially since he was the last person to see her on February 1. "The Guthrie family are victims plain and simple…please, I’m begging you, the media to honour your profession and report with some sense of compassion and professionalism."&nbsp;Former FBI Jason Pack told Fox News that even though DNA is one of the most powerful tools, "it’s also one of the most misunderstood by the public." He added that the DNA results will lead to "three parallel realities." First, if they find a match with a known person, it cannot be considered conclusive proof. Investigators will need to check the chain of custody, whether contamination was a possibility and the chances of a secondary transfer. "A match doesn’t automatically equal guilt...a match accelerates your investigation. It doesn’t close it," Pack stated.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-nancy-guthrie-s-kidnappers-may-face-death-penalty-if-she-doesn-t-return-safe-1771266706586">Trump warns Nancy Guthrie’s kidnappers may face death penalty if she doesn’t return safe</a>&nbsp;The second scenario is one where the DNA matches an unknown individual. Again, it would be treated in the same way as above, but now investigators have a wider playing field. It wouldn't end the existing theory, but simply add another one. The third possibility is where the tests throw up inconclusive or degraded results. This can happen due to environmental exposure, or because of the material of the glove or low-copy-number DNA. Pack said, it means you can neither exonerate anyone, nor implicate them.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nancy-guthrie-kidnapping-fbi-finds-dna-on-glove-that-may-belong-to-suspect-1771219966610">Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: FBI finds DNA on glove that may belong to suspect</a><h2>Nancy Guthrie kidnapping evidence</h2>He further cautioned against public opinion building around one piece of evidence, in this case, the glove. Pack said gloves can be "discarded, dropped or blown around." So it is also important to establish a connection with the crime. The investigators have five key pieces of evidence in the Nancy Guthrie missing case. First is the doorbell video showing a masked man, who is estimated to be 5 feet, 10 inches tall, according to the FBI. Second is the DNA sample from an unknown person from inside Guthrie's home. Third is blood found on her front porch that matches Guthrie's.&nbsp;

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case: DNA on a glove found outside her home might not be conclusive evidence, an expert has said. He has cautioned that the entire case cannot be based on one single piece of evidence and forensic report.

Nancy Guthrie has been missing for 16 days with no clues about her whereabouts. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said that all of her family members have been cleared as suspects in her disappearance. Meanwhile, DNA results on a glove found at her door are being awaited and are expected to pin down the culprit. However, according to a retired FBI agent, this forensic development might not be the final nail that many are expecting. "To be clear…the Guthrie family – to include all siblings and spouses – has been cleared as possible suspects in this case," Nanos said in a Monday afternoon statement. "The family has been nothing but cooperative and gracious and are victims in this case." Notably, Nancy's son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, the husband of Savannah Guthrie’s sister, Annie, was being flagged as a suspect by some people, especially since he was the last person to see her on February 1. "The Guthrie family are victims plain and simple…please, I’m begging you, the media to honour your profession and report with some sense of compassion and professionalism." Former FBI Jason Pack told Fox News that even though DNA is one of the most powerful tools, "it’s also one of the most misunderstood by the public." He added that the DNA results will lead to "three parallel realities." First, if they find a match with a known person, it cannot be considered conclusive proof. Investigators will need to check the chain of custody, whether contamination was a possibility and the chances of a secondary transfer. "A match doesn’t automatically equal guilt...a match accelerates your investigation. It doesn’t close it," Pack stated. Also Read: Trump warns Nancy Guthrie’s kidnappers may face death penalty if she doesn’t return safe The second scenario is one where the DNA matches an unknown individual. Again, it would be treated in the same way as above, but now investigators have a wider playing field. It wouldn't end the existing theory, but simply add another one. The third possibility is where the tests throw up inconclusive or degraded results. This can happen due to environmental exposure, or because of the material of the glove or low-copy-number DNA. Pack said, it means you can neither exonerate anyone, nor implicate them. Also Read: Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: FBI finds DNA on glove that may belong to suspect Nancy Guthrie kidnapping evidence He further cautioned against public opinion building around one piece of evidence, in this case, the glove. Pack said gloves can be "discarded, dropped or blown around." So it is also important to establish a connection with the crime. The investigators have five key pieces of evidence in the Nancy Guthrie missing case. First is the doorbell video showing a masked man, who is estimated to be 5 feet, 10 inches tall, according to the FBI. Second is the DNA sample from an unknown person from inside Guthrie's home. Third is blood found on her front porch that matches Guthrie's.

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case: DNA on a glove found outside her home might not be conclusive evidence, an expert has said. He has cautioned that the entire case cannot be based on one single piece of evidence and forensic report.

Nancy Guthrie kidnapping: DNA results will lead to 'three parallel realities', former FBI agent says

Bangladesh's prime minister-to-be Tarique Rahman and lawmakers were sworn into parliament on Tuesday (Feb 17), becoming the first elected representatives since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina after deadly 2024 uprising. 60-year-old Rahman registered an impressive win in the recently concluded polls. He is the son of former late Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and returned to Bangladesh after 17 years of self-imposed exile. The lawmakers, who promised loyalty to Bangladesh, were sworn in by the Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) lawmakers are expected to formally elect Rahman as their leader, with President Mohammed Shahabuddin then to administer the oath of office to the prime minister and his ministers later on Tuesday afternoon. The BNP coalition won 212 seats, compared with 77 for the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance. Hasina's Awami League party was barred from taking part in the elections.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yunus-mentions-seven-sisters-and-china-bhutan-in-his-farewell-speech-sparks-concerns-amid-fractured-india-bangladesh-ties-1771302506251"> Yunus mentions 'Seven Sisters' and 'China, Bhutan' in his farewell speech amid fractured India-Bangladesh ties: What this means</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HBVnVjbagAAXPCd?format=jpg&amp;name=large" alt="Image"></figure> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-political-reset-bnp-to-lead-first-elected-govt-after-hasina-s-ouster-1771298973991/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-political-reset-bnp-to-lead-first-elected-govt-after-hasina-s-ouster-1771298973991/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;"This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy. This victory belongs to people who aspire to and have sacrificed for democracy. We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by the authoritarian regime, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation," Tarique Rahman said in his victory speech on Saturday (Feb 14). He has also called for all parties to "remain united" in a country polarised by years of bitter rivalry.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victory-over-a-demon-yunus-recalls-hasina-s-fall-in-farewell-address-to-bangladesh-1771261975393"> 'Victory over a demon': Yunus recalls Hasina’s fall in farewell address to Bangladesh</a><h2>Who all are attending the swearing-in ceremony?</h2>From India, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri are attending the swearing-in ceremony. Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Nepal Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma, Sri Lanka Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, United Kingdom's Seema Malhotra who serves as Indo-Pacific Under Secretary and high-level delegates from Qatar, Malaysia, and Brunei will also attend the event. Invitations have been sent to leaders from China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE.<h2>Tarique Rahman's reaches out to Opposition</h2>Tarique Rahman visited Jamaat chief at his residence along with party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamigir a day ahead of oath-taking. Soon after, the BNP’s media wing released a photograph showing the two rival party leaders standing side by side with Shafiqur Rahman seen holding a bouquet to be handed over to Tarique Rahman and terming the meeting as “courtesy visit.” The BNP leader also met Jamaat-ally National Citizen Party’s (NCP) convenor Nahid Islam later.&nbsp;

Tarique Rahman and newly elected MPs were sworn in after BNP’s landslide win, marking Bangladesh’s first elected government since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster. Rahman, returning from exile, called for unity while preparing to take oath as prime minister later in the day.

Bangladesh's prime minister-to-be Tarique Rahman and lawmakers were sworn into parliament on Tuesday (Feb 17), becoming the first elected representatives since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina after deadly 2024 uprising. 60-year-old Rahman registered an impressive win in the recently concluded polls. He is the son of former late Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and returned to Bangladesh after 17 years of self-imposed exile. The lawmakers, who promised loyalty to Bangladesh, were sworn in by the Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) lawmakers are expected to formally elect Rahman as their leader, with President Mohammed Shahabuddin then to administer the oath of office to the prime minister and his ministers later on Tuesday afternoon. The BNP coalition won 212 seats, compared with 77 for the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance. Hasina's Awami League party was barred from taking part in the elections. Also Read: Yunus mentions 'Seven Sisters' and 'China, Bhutan' in his farewell speech amid fractured India-Bangladesh ties: What this means https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-political-reset-bnp-to-lead-first-elected-govt-after-hasina-s-ouster-1771298973991/embed "This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy. This victory belongs to people who aspire to and have sacrificed for democracy. We are about to begin our journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by the authoritarian regime, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation," Tarique Rahman said in his victory speech on Saturday (Feb 14). He has also called for all parties to "remain united" in a country polarised by years of bitter rivalry. Also Read: 'Victory over a demon': Yunus recalls Hasina’s fall in farewell address to Bangladesh Who all are attending the swearing-in ceremony? From India, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri are attending the swearing-in ceremony. Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Pakistan Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Nepal Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma, Sri Lanka Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, United Kingdom's Seema Malhotra who serves as Indo-Pacific Under Secretary and high-level delegates from Qatar, Malaysia, and Brunei will also attend the event. Invitations have been sent to leaders from China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE. Tarique Rahman's reaches out to Opposition Tarique Rahman visited Jamaat chief at his residence along with party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamigir a day ahead of oath-taking. Soon after, the BNP’s media wing released a photograph showing the two rival party leaders standing side by side with Shafiqur Rahman seen holding a bouquet to be handed over to Tarique Rahman and terming the meeting as “courtesy visit.” The BNP leader also met Jamaat-ally National Citizen Party’s (NCP) convenor Nahid Islam later.

Tarique Rahman and newly elected MPs were sworn in after BNP’s landslide win, marking Bangladesh’s first elected government since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster. Rahman, returning from exile, called for unity while preparing to take oath as prime minister later in the day.

Bangladesh PM-to-be Tarique Rahman, lawmakers sworn into parliament: What happens next?

"Death is only the beginning," proclaimed Imhotep, the antagonist from 'The Mummy,' a popular movie on ancient curses and reincarnation from the 2000s. Now, Mark Zuckerberg's Meta may actually be on its way to make this a reality. Meta, as per reports, has been granted the patent for a technology that can make our social media accounts and, in turn, us immortal. How? By letting artificial intelligence "simulate" a person's online activity even after their death. But how much would the service cost? How ethical is monetising grief? Here's all you need to know.<h2>Meta patents 'life after death' online</h2>In December 2025, Zuckerberg's Meta was granted a patent for a technology that can "simulate" how a real person would respond to content posted online by their loved ones. This technology can potentially be used by content creators during media detox, and more alarmingly, to keep alive a person's online legacy after they die. How? The language model will theoretically do this by replicating the individual's online footprint from when they were alive.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-attempts-to-bring-dead-back-to-life-give-people-closure-601951">AI attempts to bring dead back to life, give people closure</a> &nbsp;The tool, as per Business Insider, seems to be specifically designed for Meta's own platforms, Facebook and Instagram."The language model may be used for simulating the user when the user is absent from the social networking system, for example, when the user takes a long break or if the user is deceased," reads the patent granted to Meta, with Andrew Bosworth, the company's CTO, listed as the primary author. The request for this patent, as per reports, was filed in 2023.Once the tech is executed, it can not only leave comments but also respond to messages. The patent also refers to more advanced technological feats, including simulating audio and even video calls. How? Meta will train its model on user-specific data to understand how you would (or rather, did) behave.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-jesus-watches-over-her-whoops-disturbing-epstein-files-email-mocking-young-victim-s-faith-goes-viral-1771055911141">'Jesus watches over her… whoops': Disturbing Epstein files email mocking young victim’s faith goes viral</a><h2>When will this technology be available?</h2>Talking to Business Insider, a spokesperson for the tech giant said that while Meta files patents to disclose technological concepts, it does not necessarily mean the company will pursue, develop or implement the technology.<h2>Monetising grief?</h2>Despite Meta's assurances that it does not have any plans to float the technology at the moment, the patent raises important ethical questions about technology and monetising grief. Automated legacy accounts are not a new concept; Meta previously introduced a feature that allows users to assign someone to operate their account in the event of their passing.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/advances-in-artificial-intelligence-mean-deadbots-can-haunt-users-warn-ai-experts-heres-what-it-means-719542">Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means</a>Similarly, as previously reported by WION, many companies offer services like "deadbots" or "griefbots" that can bring a dead loved one back to life. These chatbots can simulate the personality and speech patterns of a dead loved one using the digital footprints— messages, etc— they've left behind. But how ethical is this? AI ethicists have earlier warned that such services would do more harm than good and can even "haunt" users.&nbsp;

Meta has patented technology that could let AI keep posting, messaging, and even “talking” as you after death, using your social media history to simulate you. It sounds like science fiction, but the ethical questions are even bigger. Scroll down to see why.

"Death is only the beginning," proclaimed Imhotep, the antagonist from 'The Mummy,' a popular movie on ancient curses and reincarnation from the 2000s. Now, Mark Zuckerberg's Meta may actually be on its way to make this a reality. Meta, as per reports, has been granted the patent for a technology that can make our social media accounts and, in turn, us immortal. How? By letting artificial intelligence "simulate" a person's online activity even after their death. But how much would the service cost? How ethical is monetising grief? Here's all you need to know. Meta patents 'life after death' online In December 2025, Zuckerberg's Meta was granted a patent for a technology that can "simulate" how a real person would respond to content posted online by their loved ones. This technology can potentially be used by content creators during media detox, and more alarmingly, to keep alive a person's online legacy after they die. How? The language model will theoretically do this by replicating the individual's online footprint from when they were alive. Also read | AI attempts to bring dead back to life, give people closure The tool, as per Business Insider, seems to be specifically designed for Meta's own platforms, Facebook and Instagram. "The language model may be used for simulating the user when the user is absent from the social networking system, for example, when the user takes a long break or if the user is deceased," reads the patent granted to Meta, with Andrew Bosworth, the company's CTO, listed as the primary author. The request for this patent, as per reports, was filed in 2023. Once the tech is executed, it can not only leave comments but also respond to messages. The patent also refers to more advanced technological feats, including simulating audio and even video calls. How? Meta will train its model on user-specific data to understand how you would (or rather, did) behave. Also read | 'Jesus watches over her… whoops': Disturbing Epstein files email mocking young victim’s faith goes viral When will this technology be available? Talking to Business Insider, a spokesperson for the tech giant said that while Meta files patents to disclose technological concepts, it does not necessarily mean the company will pursue, develop or implement the technology. Monetising grief? Despite Meta's assurances that it does not have any plans to float the technology at the moment, the patent raises important ethical questions about technology and monetising grief. Automated legacy accounts are not a new concept; Meta previously introduced a feature that allows users to assign someone to operate their account in the event of their passing. Also read | Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means Similarly, as previously reported by WION, many companies offer services like "deadbots" or "griefbots" that can bring a dead loved one back to life. These chatbots can simulate the personality and speech patterns of a dead loved one using the digital footprints— messages, etc— they've left behind. But how ethical is this? AI ethicists have earlier warned that such services would do more harm than good and can even "haunt" users.

Meta has patented technology that could let AI keep posting, messaging, and even “talking” as you after death, using your social media history to simulate you. It sounds like science fiction, but the ethical questions are even bigger. Scroll down to see why.

Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains

Ahead of the swearing-in of new Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman, the outgoing interim leader Muhammad Yunus delivered a farewell speech in which he invoked India’s northeastern “seven sisters” states alongside Nepal and Bhutan. He mentioned the northeastern Indian states while speaking about a sub-regional economic vision. In a televised speech, Yunus said that Bangladesh's foreign policy under his 18-month tenure restored three core pillars - sovereignty, national interest, and dignity - and declared that the country was “no longer submissive” or guided by other nations’ directives. Yunus has also said that he is prepared to hand over power swiftly and “with pride” after the election process concludes. On August 8, 2024, Yunus was appointed Chief Adviser of the interim government.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victory-over-a-demon-yunus-recalls-hasina-s-fall-in-farewell-address-to-bangladesh-1771261975393"> 'Victory over a demon': Yunus recalls Hasina’s fall in farewell address to Bangladesh</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-political-reset-bnp-to-lead-first-elected-govt-after-hasina-s-ouster-1771298973991/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-political-reset-bnp-to-lead-first-elected-govt-after-hasina-s-ouster-1771298973991/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Yunus faces criticism over his interim administration’s handling of minority safety. “Today, the interim government is stepping down. But let the practice of democracy, freedom of speech, and fundamental rights that has begun not be halted,” he said. Recalling the day Hasina was forced to flee, he said, “That was the day of great liberation. What a day of joy it was. Bangladeshis across the world shed tears of happiness. The youth of our country freed it from the grip of a demon.” He continued, “Our open sea is not only a geographical boundary, it is an open door to engage with the world economy for Bangladesh. This region along with Nepal, Bhutan and the Seven Sisters has great economic potential,” Yunus said, referring to India's northeastern states even as he didn't name India. &nbsp;He proposed deeper sub-regional economic cooperation built around connectivity, trade agreements, economic zones and maritime access through Bangladesh, according to reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/did-bjp-actually-won-in-bangladesh-elections-here-s-the-truth-1771147183190">Did BJP actually win a seat in Bangladesh Elections? Here's the truth</a><h2>What we know about recently concluded Bangladesh elections?</h2>Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) registered an impressive victory in the recently concluded elections. BNP's chief and son of former PM late Khaleda Zia - Tarique Rahman - is set to become the first male PM of the country in 35 years. Rahman has reiterated that his government's approach will 'Bangladesh first' but it will maintain a balanced relations with India, China and other South Asian nations. The elections took place in the country after former PM Sheikh Hasina was ousted after a violent uprising in 2024. In this elections, Awami League was banned and Hasina dismissed the polls as a “sham.” Meanwhile, Bangladeshis also voted for referendum on the July National Charter 2025. The "Yes" vote won a decisive mandate with 68.59 per cent support. It will approve 84 reform points out of which 47 require constitutional amendments.

Muhammad Yunus, in his farewell speech, highlighted a regional economic vision linking Bangladesh with Nepal, Bhutan, and India’s northeastern states. His remarks may strain ties with India as he steps down following BNP’s election victory and transition of power.

Ahead of the swearing-in of new Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman, the outgoing interim leader Muhammad Yunus delivered a farewell speech in which he invoked India’s northeastern “seven sisters” states alongside Nepal and Bhutan. He mentioned the northeastern Indian states while speaking about a sub-regional economic vision. In a televised speech, Yunus said that Bangladesh's foreign policy under his 18-month tenure restored three core pillars - sovereignty, national interest, and dignity - and declared that the country was “no longer submissive” or guided by other nations’ directives. Yunus has also said that he is prepared to hand over power swiftly and “with pride” after the election process concludes. On August 8, 2024, Yunus was appointed Chief Adviser of the interim government. Also Read: 'Victory over a demon': Yunus recalls Hasina’s fall in farewell address to Bangladesh https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-s-political-reset-bnp-to-lead-first-elected-govt-after-hasina-s-ouster-1771298973991/embed Yunus faces criticism over his interim administration’s handling of minority safety. “Today, the interim government is stepping down. But let the practice of democracy, freedom of speech, and fundamental rights that has begun not be halted,” he said. Recalling the day Hasina was forced to flee, he said, “That was the day of great liberation. What a day of joy it was. Bangladeshis across the world shed tears of happiness. The youth of our country freed it from the grip of a demon.” He continued, “Our open sea is not only a geographical boundary, it is an open door to engage with the world economy for Bangladesh. This region along with Nepal, Bhutan and the Seven Sisters has great economic potential,” Yunus said, referring to India's northeastern states even as he didn't name India. He proposed deeper sub-regional economic cooperation built around connectivity, trade agreements, economic zones and maritime access through Bangladesh, according to reports. Also Read: Did BJP actually win a seat in Bangladesh Elections? Here's the truth What we know about recently concluded Bangladesh elections? Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) registered an impressive victory in the recently concluded elections. BNP's chief and son of former PM late Khaleda Zia - Tarique Rahman - is set to become the first male PM of the country in 35 years. Rahman has reiterated that his government's approach will 'Bangladesh first' but it will maintain a balanced relations with India, China and other South Asian nations. The elections took place in the country after former PM Sheikh Hasina was ousted after a violent uprising in 2024. In this elections, Awami League was banned and Hasina dismissed the polls as a “sham.” Meanwhile, Bangladeshis also voted for referendum on the July National Charter 2025. The "Yes" vote won a decisive mandate with 68.59 per cent support. It will approve 84 reform points out of which 47 require constitutional amendments.

Muhammad Yunus, in his farewell speech, highlighted a regional economic vision linking Bangladesh with Nepal, Bhutan, and India’s northeastern states. His remarks may strain ties with India as he steps down following BNP’s election victory and transition of power.

Yunus mentions 'Seven Sisters' and 'China, Bhutan' in his farewell speech amid fractured India-Bangladesh ties: What this means

Several names have surfaced in the Epstein Files, which is a collection of documents, images, videos and emails detailing the activities of American financier and late child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Now, in the latest documents shared by the Trump administration, it has emerged that British supermodel Naomi Campbell's link with Jeffrey Epstein was way more than an acquaintance.&nbsp;<h2>Did Naomi Campbell have links with Jeffrey Epstein?</h2>Naomi Campbell had past associations with Epstein and had once worked for Victoria's Secret, the lingerie brand which was once owned by billionaire Les Wexner, whose finances were managed by Epstein. In addition, an ex-boyfriend had introduced Naomi to Epstein at her 31st birthday party in 2001.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-epstein-files-new-photos-show-michael-jackson-kevin-spacey-and-other-high-profile-figures-1766204935927/1766204935929">In pics | Epstein files new photos show Michael Jackson, Kevin Spacey, and other high-profile figures</a>&nbsp;Naomi had always maintained her stance of not knowing Jeffrey Epstein's misconduct at the time when they knew each other. Reportedly, in a 2019 video statement, Naomi had called his crimes sickening and indefensible. But Naomi was in touch with the late sex offender despite his 2008 conviction in Florida for soliciting prostitution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/leonardo-di-caprio-naomi-campbell-kevin-spacey-celebrities-mentioned-in-jeffery-epsteins-court-documents-676925">Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Campbell, Kevin Spacey: Celebrities mentioned in Jeffery Epstein's court documents</a>&nbsp;The email exchanges reflect that Campbell asked to fly on his private plane and said she would meet Epstein at his New York mansion. He was invited on her behalf to lavish events around the world. These plans were mostly coordinated through Epstein’s long-time assistant Lesley Groff. Moreover, many unnamed victims have also stated that Epstein had introduced them to Naomi at social events, and they had seen the model in his mansion and on his island.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, Naomi Campbell has appeared nearly 300 times in documents released by the Justice Department, though some files are duplicates. Before Jeffrey Epstein's arrest in 2019 in New York, Naomi's attorney Martin Singer had reportedly told the Times, "If my client had ever encountered any young woman whom she thought was being victimised by Epstein, she would have personally taken immediate action to help her."&nbsp;For the unversed, several celebrities have also been listed in the final release of the Epstein Files. The people from the entertainment industry include Amy Schumer, Woody Allen, Tucker Carlson, Jay Z, Meghan Markle, Alec Baldwin, Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, Alyssa Milano, Rose O'Donnell, Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, David Copperfield, Kevin Spacey, Cher, George Clooney, Robert De Niro, Kurt Cobain, Bono, Mick Jagger, and Barbara Streisand, among others.&nbsp;<h2>All about Naomi Campbell</h2>Naomi Campbell embarked on the glamour industry during her early years in Rome, Italy, where her mother worked as a modern dancer. At age 10 she was accepted into the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, where she studied ballet. In 1978, at age 8, Campbell made her first public appearance in the music video for Bob Marley's "Is This Love" at the Keskidee, a Black-led arts and theatre centre in&nbsp;London.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/kate-and-william-breaks-silence-on-epstein-revelations-says-they-deeply-concerned-1770629588965">Kate and William break silence on Epstein revelations, says they are 'deeply concerned'</a>&nbsp;Over the next few years, Campbell walked the catwalk for such designers as Gianni Versace, Azzedine Alaïa, and Isaac Mizrahi and posed for such photographers as Peter Lindbergh, Herb Ritts, and Bruce Weber.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/epstein-files-new-release-full-list-305-names-politicians-celebrities-businessmen-royals-1771220907285/1771220907286">Epstein Files new release has 305 names, including politicians, celebrities and businessmen - Full List</a>&nbsp;In addition to her modelling career, Campbell has embarked on other ventures, including an R&amp;B studio album and several acting appearances in film and television. She hosted the modelling-competition reality show The Face and its international offshoots. She was the first Black woman to appear as a model on the covers of Time and Vogue France.&nbsp;*Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article.

In the latest documents, it has emerged that one of the world's most recognisable names in the fashion world, British supermodel Naomi Campbell, had links with late child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Read to know more. 

Several names have surfaced in the Epstein Files, which is a collection of documents, images, videos and emails detailing the activities of American financier and late child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Now, in the latest documents shared by the Trump administration, it has emerged that British supermodel Naomi Campbell's link with Jeffrey Epstein was way more than an acquaintance. Did Naomi Campbell have links with Jeffrey Epstein? Naomi Campbell had past associations with Epstein and had once worked for Victoria's Secret, the lingerie brand which was once owned by billionaire Les Wexner, whose finances were managed by Epstein. In addition, an ex-boyfriend had introduced Naomi to Epstein at her 31st birthday party in 2001. Also Read: In pics | Epstein files new photos show Michael Jackson, Kevin Spacey, and other high-profile figures Naomi had always maintained her stance of not knowing Jeffrey Epstein's misconduct at the time when they knew each other. Reportedly, in a 2019 video statement, Naomi had called his crimes sickening and indefensible. But Naomi was in touch with the late sex offender despite his 2008 conviction in Florida for soliciting prostitution. Also Read: Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Campbell, Kevin Spacey: Celebrities mentioned in Jeffery Epstein's court documents The email exchanges reflect that Campbell asked to fly on his private plane and said she would meet Epstein at his New York mansion. He was invited on her behalf to lavish events around the world. These plans were mostly coordinated through Epstein’s long-time assistant Lesley Groff. Moreover, many unnamed victims have also stated that Epstein had introduced them to Naomi at social events, and they had seen the model in his mansion and on his island. Moreover, Naomi Campbell has appeared nearly 300 times in documents released by the Justice Department, though some files are duplicates. Before Jeffrey Epstein's arrest in 2019 in New York, Naomi's attorney Martin Singer had reportedly told the Times, "If my client had ever encountered any young woman whom she thought was being victimised by Epstein, she would have personally taken immediate action to help her." For the unversed, several celebrities have also been listed in the final release of the Epstein Files. The people from the entertainment industry include Amy Schumer, Woody Allen, Tucker Carlson, Jay Z, Meghan Markle, Alec Baldwin, Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, Alyssa Milano, Rose O'Donnell, Michael Jackson, Bill Cosby, David Copperfield, Kevin Spacey, Cher, George Clooney, Robert De Niro, Kurt Cobain, Bono, Mick Jagger, and Barbara Streisand, among others. All about Naomi Campbell Naomi Campbell embarked on the glamour industry during her early years in Rome, Italy, where her mother worked as a modern dancer. At age 10 she was accepted into the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, where she studied ballet. In 1978, at age 8, Campbell made her first public appearance in the music video for Bob Marley's "Is This Love" at the Keskidee, a Black-led arts and theatre centre in London. Also Read: Kate and William break silence on Epstein revelations, says they are 'deeply concerned' Over the next few years, Campbell walked the catwalk for such designers as Gianni Versace, Azzedine Alaïa, and Isaac Mizrahi and posed for such photographers as Peter Lindbergh, Herb Ritts, and Bruce Weber. Also Read: Epstein Files new release has 305 names, including politicians, celebrities and businessmen - Full List In addition to her modelling career, Campbell has embarked on other ventures, including an R&B studio album and several acting appearances in film and television. She hosted the modelling-competition reality show The Face and its international offshoots. She was the first Black woman to appear as a model on the covers of Time and Vogue France. *Disclaimer: WION is only reporting the names that have been mentioned in the Epstein files and is not accusing anyone of any wrongdoing. Readers are advised to use their discretion on this article.

In the latest documents, it has emerged that one of the world's most recognisable names in the fashion world, British supermodel Naomi Campbell, had links with late child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Read to know more.&nbsp;

Runways to controversy! New documents hints at Naomi Campbell's extent of relationship with Jeffrey Epstein

Elon Musk's SpaceX, as per reports, is stepping into a new and controversial area of defence technology by joining a Pentagon competition to develop autonomous drone swarming systems powered by artificial intelligence. The project will also involve Musk's AI company xAI. Here’s what the technology is, and why the Pentagon wants it.<h2>What is autonomous drone swarming?</h2>Drone swarming technology allows multiple, networked unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones to operate as a single intelligence unit rather than as individual machines. Instead of a human pilot controlling each device separately, software enables the drones to communicate with one another, adjust their movements in real time, and complete missions together.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-robots-need-your-body-would-you-work-for-an-ai-overlord-this-website-lets-machine-rent-humans-all-you-need-to-know-about-rentahuman-ai-1770455263542">'Robots need your body': Are you up to 'rent' yourself to Artificial Intelligence? Deets inside</a>The Pentagon’s latest competition, which is set to last six months, focuses on voice-controlled swarms. The goal is to build systems that can translate voice commands from military personnel into digital instructions that guide multiple drones.<h2>SpaceX and xAI enter the contest</h2>According to a Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the effort, SpaceX and xAI are among a small group of companies selected for the Pentagon's $100 million prize competition. OpenAI is also a contender in the competition launched in January by the Defense Innovation Unit and the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group. The six-month contest will unfold in phases, beginning with software development and eventually moving to real-world testing.SpaceX has long worked as a defence contractor with the US military on rockets, satellite launches, and communications systems. However, building software for offensive drone operations would mark a new direction for the company.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-jesus-watches-over-her-whoops-disturbing-epstein-files-email-mocking-young-victim-s-faith-goes-viral-1771055911141">'Jesus watches over her… whoops': Disturbing Epstein files email mocking young victim’s faith goes viral</a><h2>Ethical and strategic concerns</h2>The project highlights the Pentagon’s push to integrate AI into warfare. A new defence strategy, 'AI Acceleration Strategy', released earlier this year, seeks to "unleash" AI into the battlefields, expanding the use of autonomous systems in planning, surveillance, and potential participation in operations involving lethal strikes.At the same time, AI-driven weapons raise serious questions. Large language models are known to be prone to bias, and Musk himself previously signed an open letter warning against "new tools for killing people". &nbsp;

Elon Musk’s SpaceX and xAI are now competing to build AI-powered drone swarms for the Pentagon, where multiple drones act like one coordinated “intelligent” weapon system. What does that mean? Scroll down to learn how it works.

Elon Musk's SpaceX, as per reports, is stepping into a new and controversial area of defence technology by joining a Pentagon competition to develop autonomous drone swarming systems powered by artificial intelligence. The project will also involve Musk's AI company xAI. Here’s what the technology is, and why the Pentagon wants it. What is autonomous drone swarming? Drone swarming technology allows multiple, networked unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones to operate as a single intelligence unit rather than as individual machines. Instead of a human pilot controlling each device separately, software enables the drones to communicate with one another, adjust their movements in real time, and complete missions together. Also read | 'Robots need your body': Are you up to 'rent' yourself to Artificial Intelligence? Deets inside The Pentagon’s latest competition, which is set to last six months, focuses on voice-controlled swarms. The goal is to build systems that can translate voice commands from military personnel into digital instructions that guide multiple drones. SpaceX and xAI enter the contest According to a Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the effort, SpaceX and xAI are among a small group of companies selected for the Pentagon's $100 million prize competition. OpenAI is also a contender in the competition launched in January by the Defense Innovation Unit and the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group. The six-month contest will unfold in phases, beginning with software development and eventually moving to real-world testing. SpaceX has long worked as a defence contractor with the US military on rockets, satellite launches, and communications systems. However, building software for offensive drone operations would mark a new direction for the company. Also read | 'Jesus watches over her… whoops': Disturbing Epstein files email mocking young victim’s faith goes viral Ethical and strategic concerns The project highlights the Pentagon’s push to integrate AI into warfare. A new defence strategy, 'AI Acceleration Strategy', released earlier this year, seeks to "unleash" AI into the battlefields, expanding the use of autonomous systems in planning, surveillance, and potential participation in operations involving lethal strikes. At the same time, AI-driven weapons raise serious questions. Large language models are known to be prone to bias, and Musk himself previously signed an open letter warning against "new tools for killing people".

Elon Musk’s SpaceX and xAI are now competing to build AI-powered drone swarms for the Pentagon, where multiple drones act like one coordinated “intelligent” weapon system. What does that mean? Scroll down to learn how it works.

What is autonomous drone swarming tech? Musk's SpaceX, xAI bid in secret Pentagon competition | WION Explains

US President Donald Trump has said that he is currently talking to Cuba but didn't rule out Venezuela-like operations in the country. Speaking to reporters en route to Washington from Palm Beach, Florida, Trump said that Cuba should “absolutely” make a deal with the US, adding that his Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in talks with him. &nbsp;&nbsp;"We're talking to Cuba right now. They should absolutely make a deal. We'll see how it all turns out. But Cuba and us, we are talking. In the meantime, there's an embargo, there's no oil, there's no money," he said, adding that Cuba "a failed nation." Asked if he would consider a military operation like the one in Venezuela, Trump said, "Why would I answer that? If I was, it wouldn't be a very tough operation, as you can figure, but I don't think that'll be necessary," he said. The US has halted oil supplies to Cuba from Mexico and Venezuela and reinstated its blockade, declaring its intention to overthrow the republic's leftist government by one means or another. Washington has also imposed an embargo on fuel deliveries to the island nation. “I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE,” Trump had warned Cuba on January 11.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cuba-faces-severe-energy-crisis-amid-trump-s-pressure-on-havana-1770691835025/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cuba-faces-severe-energy-crisis-amid-trump-s-pressure-on-havana-1770691835025/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-seeking-regime-change-in-cuba-after-venezuela-cuba-on-trump-s-target-1769083564484">US seeking regime change in Cuba? After Venezuela, Cuba on Trump's target?</a><h2>What is the US planning to do with Cuba?</h2>Earlier this year, an article titled ‘The US Is Actively Seeking Regime Change in Cuba by the End of the Year’ claimed that the strategy by the US to weaken and eventually overthrow the Cuban government appears to be multi-pronged, including a search for government insiders in Cuba for a deal that would end the Communist rule as well as economic pressure. The US assessment is that the Cuban economy is on the brink of collapse, weakened by the loss of support from Venezuela that had provided much of Cuba’s oil and energy needs as a satellite state. &nbsp;“The regime has to make a choice to step down or to better provide for its people,” the report cited Jeremy Lewin, the State Department’s acting under-secretary for foreign assistance, as saying. Another White House official cited in the report described Cuba’s rulers as “incompetent Marxists who destroyed their country.” The State Department has long held that it is in US national security interests for Cuba to be ‘competently run by a democratic government’ and to refuse to host adversaries’ military and intelligence service.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cuba-regime-change-by-end-of-2026-trump-wants-it-to-cement-his-legacy-claims-report-1769060740681">Cuba REGIME CHANGE by end of 2026? Trump wants it to 'cement his legacy', claims report</a><h2>US attacked Venezuela and captured Maduro</h2>As the year 2026 began, Trump ordered the US military to launch Operation Absolute Resolve. It was a direct US intervention in Venezuela that led to the capture of Nicholas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their compound in Caracas. Maduro and Flores were flown to New York City and charged with narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. They pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan federal court. Trump declared that he will ‘run’ Venezuela. Meanwhile, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela's acting president. While she denounced the capture of Maduro, her government has since begun releasing some political prisoners as a gesture toward “consolidating peace.” Maduro is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York. Maduro pleaded not guilty to all charges during his initial court appearance on January 5. His next scheduled court hearing is set for March 17. On Jan 13, Maduro's X account became accessible again, with no clarity as to who is using it on his behalf.

US President Donald Trump says Washington is in active talks with Cuba, with Marco Rubio leading discussions. While signalling openness to a deal, the US is increasing economic pressure through sanctions and fuel restrictions, aiming to push political and economic changes in the island nation.

US President Donald Trump has said that he is currently talking to Cuba but didn't rule out Venezuela-like operations in the country. Speaking to reporters en route to Washington from Palm Beach, Florida, Trump said that Cuba should “absolutely” make a deal with the US, adding that his Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in talks with him. "We're talking to Cuba right now. They should absolutely make a deal. We'll see how it all turns out. But Cuba and us, we are talking. In the meantime, there's an embargo, there's no oil, there's no money," he said, adding that Cuba "a failed nation." Asked if he would consider a military operation like the one in Venezuela, Trump said, "Why would I answer that? If I was, it wouldn't be a very tough operation, as you can figure, but I don't think that'll be necessary," he said. The US has halted oil supplies to Cuba from Mexico and Venezuela and reinstated its blockade, declaring its intention to overthrow the republic's leftist government by one means or another. Washington has also imposed an embargo on fuel deliveries to the island nation. “I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE,” Trump had warned Cuba on January 11. https://www.wionews.com/videos/cuba-faces-severe-energy-crisis-amid-trump-s-pressure-on-havana-1770691835025/embed Also Read: US seeking regime change in Cuba? After Venezuela, Cuba on Trump's target? What is the US planning to do with Cuba? Earlier this year, an article titled ‘The US Is Actively Seeking Regime Change in Cuba by the End of the Year’ claimed that the strategy by the US to weaken and eventually overthrow the Cuban government appears to be multi-pronged, including a search for government insiders in Cuba for a deal that would end the Communist rule as well as economic pressure. The US assessment is that the Cuban economy is on the brink of collapse, weakened by the loss of support from Venezuela that had provided much of Cuba’s oil and energy needs as a satellite state. “The regime has to make a choice to step down or to better provide for its people,” the report cited Jeremy Lewin, the State Department’s acting under-secretary for foreign assistance, as saying. Another White House official cited in the report described Cuba’s rulers as “incompetent Marxists who destroyed their country.” The State Department has long held that it is in US national security interests for Cuba to be ‘competently run by a democratic government’ and to refuse to host adversaries’ military and intelligence service. Also Read: Cuba REGIME CHANGE by end of 2026? Trump wants it to 'cement his legacy', claims report US attacked Venezuela and captured Maduro As the year 2026 began, Trump ordered the US military to launch Operation Absolute Resolve. It was a direct US intervention in Venezuela that led to the capture of Nicholas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their compound in Caracas. Maduro and Flores were flown to New York City and charged with narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. They pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan federal court. Trump declared that he will ‘run’ Venezuela. Meanwhile, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela's acting president. While she denounced the capture of Maduro, her government has since begun releasing some political prisoners as a gesture toward “consolidating peace.” Maduro is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York. Maduro pleaded not guilty to all charges during his initial court appearance on January 5. His next scheduled court hearing is set for March 17. On Jan 13, Maduro's X account became accessible again, with no clarity as to who is using it on his behalf.

Trump says Washington is in active talks with Cuba, with Marco Rubio leading discussions. While signalling openness to a deal, the US is increasing economic pressure through sanctions and fuel restrictions, aiming to push political and economic changes in the island nation.

'Wouldn't be a very tough...': Trump to order Venezuela-like operation in Cuba to oust President Miguel Diaz-Canel?

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'Wouldn't be a very tough...': Trump to order Venezuela-like operation in Cuba?