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Ghislaine Maxwell, the longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, declined to answer questions from a US House committee on Monday (February 9), citing her constitutional protection against self-incrimination, according to lawmakers. Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year federal sentence for sex trafficking, had been ordered to testify before the House Oversight Committee about her role in Epstein’s criminal network and her relationship with the late financier. Committee chairman James Comer said Maxwell relied on the Fifth Amendment throughout the proceeding, refusing to respond to any inquiries.&nbsp;&nbsp;He described the outcome as expected but frustrating, noting that investigators hoped to learn more about the scope of Epstein’s crimes and whether others were involved. According to Comer, Maxwell’s legal team said she would only cooperate if she received clemency from President Donald Trump. Her attorneys also sought congressional immunity, a request lawmakers declined. Maxwell remains the sole individual convicted in connection with Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-fbi-email-derog-review-trump-clinton-prince-andrew-1770645057404">Epstein files reveal FBI email ordering ‘derogatory’ review of Trump, Clinton, Prince Andrew and others</a>&nbsp;A jury found Maxwell guilty in 2021 of recruiting and abusing underage girls on Epstein’s behalf. She testified remotely from a federal prison in Texas, where she is incarcerated. Her appearance comes as the Justice Department continues releasing a vast trove of Epstein-related records, including documents and media files. While officials say no additional prosecutions are planned, the disclosures have reignited scrutiny of prominent figures linked to Epstein.&nbsp;The House Oversight Committee has also requested testimony from former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton regarding their past interactions with Epstein. Both have asked that any testimony be conducted publicly, citing concerns about political motivations.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-fallout-starmer-s-two-aides-resign-within-24-hours-1770654055607/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-fallout-starmer-s-two-aides-resign-within-24-hours-1770654055607/embed</a>&nbsp;Although Donald Trump previously socialized with Epstein, he has not been summoned by the committee, which is controlled by Republicans. None of the individuals named have been charged with crimes related to Epstein. Maxwell was transferred last year to a minimum-security Texas facility after meeting twice with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s personal attorney.

Jeffrey Epstein associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, refuses to testify before Congress, cites Fifth Amendment

Ghislaine Maxwell, the longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, declined to answer questions from a US House committee on Monday (February 9), citing her constitutional protection against self-incrimination, according to lawmakers. Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year federal sentence for sex trafficking, had been ordered to testify before the House Oversight Committee about her role in Epstein’s criminal network and her relationship with the late financier. Committee chairman James Comer said Maxwell relied on the Fifth Amendment throughout the proceeding, refusing to respond to any inquiries. He described the outcome as expected but frustrating, noting that investigators hoped to learn more about the scope of Epstein’s crimes and whether others were involved. According to Comer, Maxwell’s legal team said she would only cooperate if she received clemency from President Donald Trump. Her attorneys also sought congressional immunity, a request lawmakers declined. Maxwell remains the sole individual convicted in connection with Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Also Read: Epstein files reveal FBI email ordering ‘derogatory’ review of Trump, Clinton, Prince Andrew and others A jury found Maxwell guilty in 2021 of recruiting and abusing underage girls on Epstein’s behalf. She testified remotely from a federal prison in Texas, where she is incarcerated. Her appearance comes as the Justice Department continues releasing a vast trove of Epstein-related records, including documents and media files. While officials say no additional prosecutions are planned, the disclosures have reignited scrutiny of prominent figures linked to Epstein. The House Oversight Committee has also requested testimony from former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton regarding their past interactions with Epstein. Both have asked that any testimony be conducted publicly, citing concerns about political motivations. https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-fallout-starmer-s-two-aides-resign-within-24-hours-1770654055607/embed Although Donald Trump previously socialized with Epstein, he has not been summoned by the committee, which is controlled by Republicans. None of the individuals named have been charged with crimes related to Epstein. Maxwell was transferred last year to a minimum-security Texas facility after meeting twice with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s personal attorney.

Ghislaine Maxwell refused to answer House committee questions on Epstein, invoking the Fifth Amendment and seeking clemency in exchange for testimony

Amid the uproar over the Epstein Files, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said that the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer should step down. He said in a press conference that the leadership "has to change". Sarwar said there had been "many achievements" under the Labour government, but voters "can't hear them and can't see them" because "the leadership in Downing Street have become a huge distraction". He added that the announcement was "not easy and not without pain", saying that Sir Keir was a "decent man" but that his "first loyalty" was to Scotland.&nbsp;In response to this, Downing Street said that the UK PM has "a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do". Starmer is facing extreme heat after his judgment was questioned over the appointment and subsequent sacking of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the British PM's spokesperson said that Starmer will not resign from his post and will continue his work. "He is getting on with the job of delivering change across the country." Tim Allan became the fourth communications chief to leave Downing Street in less than a year. In a short statement, he said: "I have decided to stand down to allow a new No 10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success."<h2>'I'm not prepared to walk away'</h2>Meanwhile, Starmer told MPs that he is not prepared to walk away from his mandate. "I have had my detractors every step along the way, and I've got them now," Starmer said, adding: "Detractors that don't want a Labour government at all, and certainly not one to succeed."&nbsp;"But I'll tell you this, after having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done," he added.&nbsp;

UK PM Keir Starmer rejects resignation calls amid Epstein Files row as Downing Street insists he has a five-year mandate, despite Labour pressure and criticism over leadership and ambassador appointment.

Amid the uproar over the Epstein Files, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said that the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer should step down. He said in a press conference that the leadership "has to change". Sarwar said there had been "many achievements" under the Labour government, but voters "can't hear them and can't see them" because "the leadership in Downing Street have become a huge distraction". He added that the announcement was "not easy and not without pain", saying that Sir Keir was a "decent man" but that his "first loyalty" was to Scotland. In response to this, Downing Street said that the UK PM has "a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do". Starmer is facing extreme heat after his judgment was questioned over the appointment and subsequent sacking of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. Meanwhile, the British PM's spokesperson said that Starmer will not resign from his post and will continue his work. "He is getting on with the job of delivering change across the country." Tim Allan became the fourth communications chief to leave Downing Street in less than a year. In a short statement, he said: "I have decided to stand down to allow a new No 10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success." 'I'm not prepared to walk away' Meanwhile, Starmer told MPs that he is not prepared to walk away from his mandate. "I have had my detractors every step along the way, and I've got them now," Starmer said, adding: "Detractors that don't want a Labour government at all, and certainly not one to succeed." "But I'll tell you this, after having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done," he added.

UK PM Keir Starmer rejects resignation calls amid Epstein Files row as Downing Street insists he has a five-year mandate, despite Labour pressure and criticism over leadership and ambassador appointment.

Keir Starmer will NOT resign, he's getting on with the job, says UK PM's spokesperson

The new tranche of Epstein files released on January 30, 2026 features an FBI mail with directions to investigators to compile a spreadsheet with “all the derog” on a list of individuals which include US President Donald Trump and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, former President Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, Bill Gates associate Jes Staley, billionaire financiers Leon Black and Les Wexner, and former US Attorney General William Barr. &nbsp;The email dated July 24, 2025 asks to interview Epstein's cellmate regarding the 1st suicide attempt of Epstein.&nbsp;

Screenshot of EFTA01648955

Notably, Jeffrey Epstein was found unconscious and injured in his cell on July 23, 2019 at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York. Epstein claimed that he had been assaulted by his cellmate. But the authorities described the incident as an apparent suicide attempt. The US Justice Department said that it was inconclusive from the evidence whether it was a suicide attempt or assault.The Federal authorities were investigating possible foul play, as the lawyer made a claim that Epstein's cellmate tried to kill him. In 2023, US Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General released a report concluding that Epstein died by suicide on August 10, 2019. However the incident of July could not be conclusively determined.Epstein cellmate, Nicholas Tartaglione, a former New York police officer who was awaiting trial on multiple murder charges. He had been sentenced to 4 years in prison in 2024. The mail however reflects a retrospective scrutiny, the FBI was seperately investigating an unresolved jail incidents at the same time collecting dirt on the individuals listed. However it remains unclear why these two tasks were mentioned in the same email and if they were hinting at possible involvement. But all of those individuals &nbsp;mentioned at the list have documented personal, financial, or social contact with Epstein, established through flight logs, DOJ release of unclassified files.

New Epstein files released January 30, 2026 reveal an FBI email ordering investigators to compile derogatory information on Trump, Clinton, Prince Andrew and others, while revisiting unresolved questions around Epstein’s July 2019 jail incident.

The new tranche of Epstein files released on January 30, 2026 features an FBI mail with directions to investigators to compile a spreadsheet with “all the derog” on a list of individuals which include US President Donald Trump and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, former President Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, Bill Gates associate Jes Staley, billionaire financiers Leon Black and Les Wexner, and former US Attorney General William Barr. The email dated July 24, 2025 asks to interview Epstein's cellmate regarding the 1st suicide attempt of Epstein.

New Epstein files released January 30, 2026 reveal an FBI email ordering investigators to compile derogatory information on Trump, Clinton, Prince Andrew and others, while revisiting unresolved questions around Epstein’s July 2019 jail incident.

Epstein files reveal FBI email ordering ‘derogatory’ review of Trump, Clinton, Prince Andrew and others

Saudi Arabia and seven other muslim countries on Monday (Feb 09) denounced fresh measures announced by the Israeli government to expand its presence and additional steps to tighten control of the West Bank, including allowing more settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory.&nbsp;Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defence Minister Israel Katz announced the new provisions on Sunday. These include allowing Jewish Israelis to buy West Bank land, as per a joint statement from ministers.&nbsp;The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Qatar, Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey "condemned in the strongest terms the illegal Israeli decisions and measures aimed at imposing unlawful Israeli sovereignty", a Saudi statement said.&nbsp;They are an attempt at "entrenching settlement activity, and enforcing a new legal and administrative reality in the occupied West Bank, thereby accelerating attempts at its illegal annexation and the displacement of the Palestinian people", the foreign ministry statement added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-avoided-lok-sabha-over-naravane-memoir-row-not-security-concerns-rahul-gandhi-claims-1770646011052">PM avoided Lok Sabha over Naravane memoir row, not security concerns, Rahul Gandhi claims</a>&nbsp;Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described the decision as a de facto annexation of the West Bank and urged the US president and the United Nations Security Council to intervene.&nbsp;The measure will also allow Israeli authorities to take charge of managing some religious sites and increase the scope of Israeli interference and enforcement in areas run by the Palestinian Authority.&nbsp;Finance Minister Smotrich said these steps are aimed at "deepening our roots in all regions of the Land of Israel and burying the idea of a Palestinian state".&nbsp;The timing of the decision raised eyebrows, as it comes days ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the United States, where he is due to meet the US president. Donald Trump previously stated his disapproval of Israeli annexation of the West Bank and endorsed the US stance on the issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Israel announced new measures, including allowing its citizens to buy land in the West Bank and expanding Jewish settlements there, aimed at tightening its grip on the territory.

Saudi Arabia and seven other muslim countries on Monday (Feb 09) denounced fresh measures announced by the Israeli government to expand its presence and additional steps to tighten control of the West Bank, including allowing more settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defence Minister Israel Katz announced the new provisions on Sunday. These include allowing Jewish Israelis to buy West Bank land, as per a joint statement from ministers. The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Qatar, Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey "condemned in the strongest terms the illegal Israeli decisions and measures aimed at imposing unlawful Israeli sovereignty", a Saudi statement said. They are an attempt at "entrenching settlement activity, and enforcing a new legal and administrative reality in the occupied West Bank, thereby accelerating attempts at its illegal annexation and the displacement of the Palestinian people", the foreign ministry statement added. Also Read: PM avoided Lok Sabha over Naravane memoir row, not security concerns, Rahul Gandhi claims Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described the decision as a de facto annexation of the West Bank and urged the US president and the United Nations Security Council to intervene. The measure will also allow Israeli authorities to take charge of managing some religious sites and increase the scope of Israeli interference and enforcement in areas run by the Palestinian Authority. Finance Minister Smotrich said these steps are aimed at "deepening our roots in all regions of the Land of Israel and burying the idea of a Palestinian state". The timing of the decision raised eyebrows, as it comes days ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the United States, where he is due to meet the US president. Donald Trump previously stated his disapproval of Israeli annexation of the West Bank and endorsed the US stance on the issue.

Israel announced new measures, including allowing its citizens to buy land in the West Bank and expanding Jewish settlements there, aimed at tightening its grip on the territory.

Eight Muslim nations condemn Israel's 'illegal' West Bank control measures in joint statement

Epstein Files image sparks global outrage after sacred Kaaba Kiswa cloth was seen on Jeffrey Epstein’s floor, prompting condemnation from Muslims over disrespect to an Islamic holy object.

Kiswa on Jeffrey Epstein’s floor? New image shows sex offender standing on sacred Islamic cloth of Kaaba, sparks outrage

Inside the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie: What we know about the alleged kidnapping as search intensifies

Chinese regulators have urged their financial institutions to start reducing their US debt and treasuries due to growing volatility and concentration risks in the US markets. This move comes after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping last week. Trump hailed the phone call as “excellent”,he is scheduled to visit China in April.&nbsp;According to a report by Bloomberg, the People’s Bank of China and the National Financial Regulatory are verbally encouraging Chinese banks to pare down exposure to US debt and treasuries. However, the move was framed as a diversification or risk aversion instead of geopolitical reasons.The report, however, lacked specifics about the time and deadline of such activity. Over the past week western media have been reporting an excerpt of an old speech by the Chinese President Xi Jinping, where he outlined his ambitions to turn renminbi into a global reserve currency. The speech was published by the flagship ideology journal of China’s Communist Party, Qiushi. It mentions that “a strong currency widely used in international trade and foreign exchange,” with a “powerful central bank” will attract global investments and influence global pricing.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-bill-gates-pandemic-preparedness-geneva-2015-1770631357216">Epstein files reveal 2015 email linking Bill Gates, Jeffrey Epstein to global pandemic preparedness conference</a>US President Donald Trump has engaged in a bitter trade war with China, which is starting to hurt the US economy now. Following the phone call with Xi, Trump was loud about the relationship between the two countries, which is “an extremely good one, and we both realise how important it is to keep it that way.” However, the response from the Chinese side was more muted. The Chinese state media reported that China is ready “work with the US to steer the giant ship of China-US relations steadily forward through winds and storms, and accomplish more big things and good things.”China has lowered its US Treasury holdings to $682.6 billion in November 2025, according to the data released by the US Treasury Department. In the Asian afternoon trading US Treasuries, yields to maturity are edging higher by two-three basis points. There is a growing market sentiment that US-government debt no longer possesses the safe-haven appeal.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese regulators have urged banks to reduce exposure to US debt and Treasuries amid rising volatility, citing diversification and risk concerns.

Chinese regulators have urged their financial institutions to start reducing their US debt and treasuries due to growing volatility and concentration risks in the US markets. This move comes after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping last week. Trump hailed the phone call as “excellent”,he is scheduled to visit China in April. According to a report by Bloomberg, the People’s Bank of China and the National Financial Regulatory are verbally encouraging Chinese banks to pare down exposure to US debt and treasuries. However, the move was framed as a diversification or risk aversion instead of geopolitical reasons. The report, however, lacked specifics about the time and deadline of such activity. Over the past week western media have been reporting an excerpt of an old speech by the Chinese President Xi Jinping, where he outlined his ambitions to turn renminbi into a global reserve currency. The speech was published by the flagship ideology journal of China’s Communist Party, Qiushi. It mentions that “a strong currency widely used in international trade and foreign exchange,” with a “powerful central bank” will attract global investments and influence global pricing. Also Read: Epstein files reveal 2015 email linking Bill Gates, Jeffrey Epstein to global pandemic preparedness conference US President Donald Trump has engaged in a bitter trade war with China, which is starting to hurt the US economy now. Following the phone call with Xi, Trump was loud about the relationship between the two countries, which is “an extremely good one, and we both realise how important it is to keep it that way.” However, the response from the Chinese side was more muted. The Chinese state media reported that China is ready “work with the US to steer the giant ship of China-US relations steadily forward through winds and storms, and accomplish more big things and good things.” China has lowered its US Treasury holdings to $682.6 billion in November 2025, according to the data released by the US Treasury Department. In the Asian afternoon trading US Treasuries, yields to maturity are edging higher by two-three basis points. There is a growing market sentiment that US-government debt no longer possesses the safe-haven appeal.

Chinese regulators have urged banks to reduce exposure to US debt and Treasuries amid rising volatility, citing diversification and risk concerns.

China urges banks to cut exposure to US debt amid treasury market volatility

India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has emphasised that national interests will guide the country's energy sourcing decisions, amid reports of reduced Russian oil imports linked to a new trade framework with the United States. In comments addressing speculation that India is cutting back on Russian crude as part of closer economic ties with Washington, FS Misri stressed that energy policy remains driven by the need to protect consumers in the world's third-largest oil importer."You are aware that India is a net importer in the oil and gas sector. We are a developing economy; we have to be conscious about our resource availability," he saidHe added: "So, it’s not surprising therefore that our foremost priority is to safeguard the interests of Indian consumers insofar as energy is concerned, to really ensure that they receive adequate energy at the right price and through reliable and secure supplies. And our import policy insofar as energy is concerned is therefore driven entirely by these objectives."The remarks come against the backdrop of a recently announced US-India trade deal framework, which US President Donald Trump claimed includes India's commitment to halt or sharply reduce purchases of Russian oil. Washington has portrayed the shift as part of broader cooperation, with suggestions that India could increase imports from the US and potentially Venezuela.However, New Delhi has not confirmed any outright cessation of Russian supplies. Mr Misri highlighted global uncertainties affecting energy markets and India's role in promoting stability. "India certainly, and I would imagine a lot of countries around the world, if not every country, have a shared and common interest in ensuring stable energy prices and secure supplies," he said. "And in fact, I would underline that India is not just one of the largest consumers of energy, but it also plays an important role as a stabilizing factor in global energy markets."He explained India's strategy of diversification: "And that's one reason why we import energy from multiple sources. So, as I mentioned earlier, the&nbsp; key drivers of our energy policy are adequate availability, fair pricing, and reliability of supply."Mr Misri noted that day-to-day decisions rest with oil companies. "Insofar as actual sourcing of energy is concerned, again, all of you follow this closely, so you know that the actual sourcing is done by oil companies. Oil companies in the public sector, oil companies in the private sector. And they make decisions based on market conditions."He pointed, So, what I can firmly and confidently say is that whether it is the government or indeed our business, at the end of the day, national interests will be the guiding factor for us in our choices."

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said energy sourcing decisions will be driven by national interests, emphasising diversified supplies and consumer security despite US pressure to cut Russian oil imports.

India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has emphasised that national interests will guide the country's energy sourcing decisions, amid reports of reduced Russian oil imports linked to a new trade framework with the United States. In comments addressing speculation that India is cutting back on Russian crude as part of closer economic ties with Washington, FS Misri stressed that energy policy remains driven by the need to protect consumers in the world's third-largest oil importer. "You are aware that India is a net importer in the oil and gas sector. We are a developing economy; we have to be conscious about our resource availability," he said He added: "So, it’s not surprising therefore that our foremost priority is to safeguard the interests of Indian consumers insofar as energy is concerned, to really ensure that they receive adequate energy at the right price and through reliable and secure supplies. And our import policy insofar as energy is concerned is therefore driven entirely by these objectives." The remarks come against the backdrop of a recently announced US-India trade deal framework, which US President Donald Trump claimed includes India's commitment to halt or sharply reduce purchases of Russian oil. Washington has portrayed the shift as part of broader cooperation, with suggestions that India could increase imports from the US and potentially Venezuela. However, New Delhi has not confirmed any outright cessation of Russian supplies. Mr Misri highlighted global uncertainties affecting energy markets and India's role in promoting stability. "India certainly, and I would imagine a lot of countries around the world, if not every country, have a shared and common interest in ensuring stable energy prices and secure supplies," he said. "And in fact, I would underline that India is not just one of the largest consumers of energy, but it also plays an important role as a stabilizing factor in global energy markets." He explained India's strategy of diversification: "And that's one reason why we import energy from multiple sources. So, as I mentioned earlier, the key drivers of our energy policy are adequate availability, fair pricing, and reliability of supply." Mr Misri noted that day-to-day decisions rest with oil companies. "Insofar as actual sourcing of energy is concerned, again, all of you follow this closely, so you know that the actual sourcing is done by oil companies. Oil companies in the public sector, oil companies in the private sector. And they make decisions based on market conditions." He pointed, So, what I can firmly and confidently say is that whether it is the government or indeed our business, at the end of the day, national interests will be the guiding factor for us in our choices."

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said energy sourcing decisions will be driven by national interests, emphasising diversified supplies and consumer security despite US pressure to cut Russian oil imports.

National interest paramount in energy decisions, says India's FS Vikram Misri amid reports of India cutting oil from Russia

New testimony from North Korean defectors suggests that citizens, including teenagers, have been executed for watching South Korean TV dramas such as Squid Game, as well as for listening to K-pop music, according to Amnesty International. Based on 25 in-depth interviews with people who escaped the country, Amnesty describes a society where exposure to foreign culture is treated as a grave political crime. The organisation says punishments range from years in labour camps to public executions, with enforcement often shaped by corruption and social class.&nbsp;Several interviewees reported hearing about executions of high school students in Yanggang Province after they were caught watching Squid Game. Similar incidents were previously reported in North Hamgyong Province in 2021, where a person was allegedly executed for distributing South Korean media. Amnesty says accounts from multiple regions point to a pattern rather than isolated cases.&nbsp;Defectors also spoke of the dangers of listening to South Korean pop music, with BTS specifically mentioned. In one reported case, teenagers in South Pyongan Province were investigated after being caught listening to the band. Wealth, interviewees said, often determines survival. Those with money or political connections can bribe officials to escape punishment, while poorer citizens face the harshest consequences. Some families reportedly sold their homes to raise thousands of dollars to avoid being sent to so-called “re-education” or labour camps.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/winter-olympics-trump-slams-skier-hunter-hess-1770631881313">Trump slams Olympic skier Hunter Hess for his 'representing US' stance: 'Just because I’m wearing the flag...'</a>&nbsp;One defector, Choi Suvin, who left North Korea in 2019, said penalties are applied unevenly. “For the same offence, the outcome depends entirely on how much money you have,” she said, adding that bribes of up to $10,000 were sometimes required to avoid detention. Another escapee, Kim Joonsik, said he was caught watching South Korean dramas three times but avoided punishment because of family connections. By contrast, three of his sister’s classmates were sentenced to long terms in labour camps because their families could not pay bribes.&nbsp;Public executions were described as a deliberate tool of intimidation. Several interviewees said schoolchildren were forced to attend executions as part of ideological training. One woman recalled tens of thousands of residents being ordered to watch an execution in Sinuiju for the alleged distribution of foreign media.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-maxwell-to-plead-the-fifth-in-congress-epstein-probe-1770636089035/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-maxwell-to-plead-the-fifth-in-congress-epstein-probe-1770636089035/embed</a>&nbsp;Amnesty’s deputy regional director, Sarah Brooks, said the testimonies reveal a system that combines repression with corruption. “Watching a TV show can cost you your life, unless you can afford to pay,” she said, adding that North Korea’s restrictions violate international human rights law. The crackdown is rooted in the 2020 Anti-Reactionary Thought and Culture Act, which labels South Korean media as corrupting ideology. Under the law, consuming such content can result in five to 15 years of forced labour, while distributing it may lead to execution.&nbsp;Fifteen interviewees described raids by a special police unit known as the “109 Group,” which searches homes and inspects phones without warrants. One defector recalled officers openly demanding bribes, warning that they needed to pay superiors to protect themselves. Amnesty says the regime’s fear of outside information has trapped the population in an “ideological cage,” where curiosity, entertainment, and free expression are met with extreme punishment.

North Korea is 'executing' its own citizens for this offence. Here's why

New testimony from North Korean defectors suggests that citizens, including teenagers, have been executed for watching South Korean TV dramas such as Squid Game, as well as for listening to K-pop music, according to Amnesty International. Based on 25 in-depth interviews with people who escaped the country, Amnesty describes a society where exposure to foreign culture is treated as a grave political crime. The organisation says punishments range from years in labour camps to public executions, with enforcement often shaped by corruption and social class. Several interviewees reported hearing about executions of high school students in Yanggang Province after they were caught watching Squid Game. Similar incidents were previously reported in North Hamgyong Province in 2021, where a person was allegedly executed for distributing South Korean media. Amnesty says accounts from multiple regions point to a pattern rather than isolated cases. Defectors also spoke of the dangers of listening to South Korean pop music, with BTS specifically mentioned. In one reported case, teenagers in South Pyongan Province were investigated after being caught listening to the band. Wealth, interviewees said, often determines survival. Those with money or political connections can bribe officials to escape punishment, while poorer citizens face the harshest consequences. Some families reportedly sold their homes to raise thousands of dollars to avoid being sent to so-called “re-education” or labour camps. Also Read: Trump slams Olympic skier Hunter Hess for his 'representing US' stance: 'Just because I’m wearing the flag...' One defector, Choi Suvin, who left North Korea in 2019, said penalties are applied unevenly. “For the same offence, the outcome depends entirely on how much money you have,” she said, adding that bribes of up to $10,000 were sometimes required to avoid detention. Another escapee, Kim Joonsik, said he was caught watching South Korean dramas three times but avoided punishment because of family connections. By contrast, three of his sister’s classmates were sentenced to long terms in labour camps because their families could not pay bribes. Public executions were described as a deliberate tool of intimidation. Several interviewees said schoolchildren were forced to attend executions as part of ideological training. One woman recalled tens of thousands of residents being ordered to watch an execution in Sinuiju for the alleged distribution of foreign media. https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-maxwell-to-plead-the-fifth-in-congress-epstein-probe-1770636089035/embed Amnesty’s deputy regional director, Sarah Brooks, said the testimonies reveal a system that combines repression with corruption. “Watching a TV show can cost you your life, unless you can afford to pay,” she said, adding that North Korea’s restrictions violate international human rights law. The crackdown is rooted in the 2020 Anti-Reactionary Thought and Culture Act, which labels South Korean media as corrupting ideology. Under the law, consuming such content can result in five to 15 years of forced labour, while distributing it may lead to execution. Fifteen interviewees described raids by a special police unit known as the “109 Group,” which searches homes and inspects phones without warrants. One defector recalled officers openly demanding bribes, warning that they needed to pay superiors to protect themselves. Amnesty says the regime’s fear of outside information has trapped the population in an “ideological cage,” where curiosity, entertainment, and free expression are met with extreme punishment.

Amnesty says North Koreans, including students, face executions or labour camps for watching South Korean dramas or K-pop, with bribes deciding who survives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a $175 mn special economic package for Seychelles during a joint press statement with President Dr Patrick Herminie at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The funds are going to be used in various sectors like housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. PM Modi called the development partnership a "strong foundation" between the two nations.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;I am extremely pleased to welcome President Herminie and his delegation to India. On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to him on his election as President of Seychelles. This is… <a href="https://t.co/li4q4aUZOW">https://t.co/li4q4aUZOW</a> <a href="https://t.co/N0TAwvIprC">pic.twitter.com/N0TAwvIprC</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2020767613698380245?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PM Modi announced that India and Seychelles continue to strengthen their economic cooperation. He expressed delight at the MoU between the two nations, which allows Seychelles to train its civil servants in India. The two nation has also agreed to work together to promote fintech and digital solutions to promote trade in local currencies."Development partnership has been a strong foundation of India-Seychelles relations. All our efforts have been based on Seychelles' priorities and needs. Moving forward in this direction, today we are going to announce a Special Economic Package of $175 million. This package will support concrete projects in sectors such as social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security," said PM Modi in a statement.&nbsp;Speaking at the joint press confrence &nbsp;PM Modi emphasised that development partnership is at the centre of the India-Seychelles relationship. The visit coincides with India's efforts to advance “Vision Mahasagar” to expand India's maritime engagement in the global south, with an emphasis on sustainability and regional security. "Our relationship spans the past, the present, and the future. As a maritime neighbour and trusted partner, Seychelles is an integral part of India's MAHASAGAR Vision. Our cooperation encompasses land, sea, and air," said PM Modi.President Herminie is on a 3-day visit to India. Before arriving in New Delhi, he had held a multi-level meeting in Chennai and Mumbai. This is the first visit of Dr Patrick Herminie as the President of the island nation of Seychelles. PM Modi congratulated Herminie on his election and the 50th anniversary of the independence day of Seychelles.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a $175 million special economic package for Seychelles covering housing, e-mobility, health, defence and maritime security during President Patrick Herminie’s India visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a $175 mn special economic package for Seychelles during a joint press statement with President Dr Patrick Herminie at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The funds are going to be used in various sectors like housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence and maritime security. PM Modi called the development partnership a "strong foundation" between the two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a $175 million special economic package for Seychelles covering housing, e-mobility, health, defence and maritime security during President Patrick Herminie’s India visit.

PM Modi announces $175 million special economic package for Seychelles

In the 3.5 million pages of the newly released documents in the Epstein Files, Russian President Vladimir Putin was mentioned over 1000 times. The revelation by the US Department of Justice has added momentum to the allegation that the late sex offender was a Russian spy. The documents showed multiple times that Epstein desperately wanted to meet Putin. There were multiple occasions when Epstein expressed his desire to meet the Russian supremo; however, there's no evidence that the two ever met.

The email of Epstein

<h2>What did Russia say about the allegation?</h2>The Kremlin on Thursday (Feb 5) dismissed the claims of late American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein being a Russian spy. In a press conference, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was asked whether Epstein was a Russian agent. “I’m tempted to make a lot of jokes about that version, but let’s not waste our time," Peskov responded. Earlier, Peskov told a Russian media outlet that the Kremlin never received a request from the sex offender, who died in 2019 while awaiting trial.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-new-improved-nuclear-treaty-with-russia-says-us-to-introduce-battleships-100x-better-than-those-during-ww-2-1770322884405">Trump wants ‘new, improved’ nuclear treaty with Russia; says US to introduce battleships '100X better than those during WW 2'</a><h2>Epstein's link to Russia</h2>Russia's ambassador to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin, was Epstein's regular contact from Moscow till 2017. The documents by the DOJ showed the two met frequently. In 2018, Epstein reached out to Norwegian politician Thorbjorn Jagland, then the secretary general of the Council of Europe, seeking a meeting with Putin's close aide and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.&nbsp;In a conversation on Gmail on June 24, 2018, Epstein wrote to a Norwegian politician, Thorbjorn Jagland, "I think you might suggest to putin, that Lavrov, can get insight on talking to me. vitaly churkin used (to) but he died. ?!"&nbsp;Jagland replied, saying he would meet with Lavrov's assistant the following Monday and suggest it. Epstein replied, "churkin was great. He understood trump after [our] conversations. it is not complex. he must be seen to get something its that simple."

New Epstein Files reveal Vladimir Putin mentioned over 1,000 times, fuelling spy allegations. Kremlin dismissed claims, saying Epstein never contacted Russian authorities despite repeatedly seeking meetings with Putin and top officials.

In the 3.5 million pages of the newly released documents in the Epstein Files, Russian President Vladimir Putin was mentioned over 1000 times. The revelation by the US Department of Justice has added momentum to the allegation that the late sex offender was a Russian spy. The documents showed multiple times that Epstein desperately wanted to meet Putin. There were multiple occasions when Epstein expressed his desire to meet the Russian supremo; however, there's no evidence that the two ever met.

New Epstein Files reveal Vladimir Putin mentioned over 1,000 times, fuelling spy allegations. Kremlin dismissed claims, saying Epstein never contacted Russian authorities despite repeatedly seeking meetings with Putin and top officials.

Jeffrey Epstein mentioned Putin’s name over 1000 times in new documents. Here’s what he wanted

After her landslide victory in snap general elections, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Monday (Feb 09) that she is open to dialogue with China, if the exchange happens in a calm environment and with appropriate methods. Takaichi triggered a diplomatic standoff with China in November with her sharp comments on Taiwan.&nbsp;"Our nation is open to various dialogues with China. We already have exchanges of views. We will continue the exchanges of views. But we will deal with them in calm and appropriate ways," Takaichi told a news conference a day after winning an election landslide.&nbsp;On Sunday, Takaichi secured a landslide victory in a snap general election on the Japan First agenda with her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) clinching 316 seats in the 465-member lower house, marking the party's best-ever performance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her victory is looked at as a public endorsement of her policies, such as a strong emphasis on national security and proactive government spending. She was often referred to as Japan's "Iron Lady" due to her hawkish stance on countering China.&nbsp;In November, her comments on Taiwan sparked tensions between Beijing and Tokyo. The Japanese prime minister stated that if China were to use warships and military force against Taiwan, it would "undoubtedly become a survival-threatening situation" for Japan.&nbsp;Takachi's proposed plan includes raising defence spending to 2 per cent of GDP and completing a five-year plan to bolster the Self-Defence Forces (SDF), along with amending Article 9 of the constitution to allow Japan to raise a formal standing military and acquire long-range striking capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-s-communications-head-quits-hours-after-his-chief-of-staff-resigns-in-epstein-fallout-1770637208762">UK PM’s communications head quits, a day after his chief of staff resigned in Epstein fallout</a>&nbsp;She also vowed to defend Japan's territory, territorial waters and airspace and pledged to strengthen the country's defences and intelligence capacity.&nbsp;"No one will come to the aid of a nation that lacks the resolve to defend itself with its own hands. We will steadfastly protect our nation's peace and independence, our territory, territorial waters, airspace, and the lives and safety of our citizens," Takaichi said.&nbsp;"We will also enhance intelligence capabilities. We will strengthen our national intelligence analysis capabilities, prevent crises, and establish a system to strategically protect our national interests," she added.

Takaichi secured a landslide victory in a snap general election on the Japan First agenda with her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) clinching 316 seats in the 465-member lower house, marking the party's best-ever performance. 

After her landslide victory in snap general elections, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Monday (Feb 09) that she is open to dialogue with China, if the exchange happens in a calm environment and with appropriate methods. Takaichi triggered a diplomatic standoff with China in November with her sharp comments on Taiwan. "Our nation is open to various dialogues with China. We already have exchanges of views. We will continue the exchanges of views. But we will deal with them in calm and appropriate ways," Takaichi told a news conference a day after winning an election landslide. On Sunday, Takaichi secured a landslide victory in a snap general election on the Japan First agenda with her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) clinching 316 seats in the 465-member lower house, marking the party's best-ever performance. Her victory is looked at as a public endorsement of her policies, such as a strong emphasis on national security and proactive government spending. She was often referred to as Japan's "Iron Lady" due to her hawkish stance on countering China. In November, her comments on Taiwan sparked tensions between Beijing and Tokyo. The Japanese prime minister stated that if China were to use warships and military force against Taiwan, it would "undoubtedly become a survival-threatening situation" for Japan. Takachi's proposed plan includes raising defence spending to 2 per cent of GDP and completing a five-year plan to bolster the Self-Defence Forces (SDF), along with amending Article 9 of the constitution to allow Japan to raise a formal standing military and acquire long-range striking capabilities. Also Read: UK PM’s communications head quits, a day after his chief of staff resigned in Epstein fallout She also vowed to defend Japan's territory, territorial waters and airspace and pledged to strengthen the country's defences and intelligence capacity. "No one will come to the aid of a nation that lacks the resolve to defend itself with its own hands. We will steadfastly protect our nation's peace and independence, our territory, territorial waters, airspace, and the lives and safety of our citizens," Takaichi said. "We will also enhance intelligence capabilities. We will strengthen our national intelligence analysis capabilities, prevent crises, and establish a system to strategically protect our national interests," she added.

Takaichi secured a landslide victory in a snap general election on the Japan First agenda with her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) clinching 316 seats in the 465-member lower house, marking the party's best-ever performance.&nbsp;

Iron Lady softens tone: Japan's Takaichi says open to dialogue with China

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's executive director of communications, Tim Allan, resigned on Monday (Feb 09), just five months in the role. His departure comes a day after the resignation of Starmer's Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney, just a day earlier. "I have decided to stand down to allow a new No. 10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success," Allen said in a statement.&nbsp;Tim Allan is the fourth person to hold the communications role under Starmer in less than a year, highlighting the significant instability currently facing the administration.&nbsp;The exits of both Allan and McSweeney are linked to a deepening crisis over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the US, whose name resurfaced in the Epstein files with explosive new allegations. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-s-chief-of-staff-morgan-mcsweeney-resigns-as-epstein-mandelson-fallout-intensifies-1770563398488">UK PM’s Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney resigns as Epstein–Mandelson fallout intensifies</a>&nbsp;On Sunday, Morgan McSweeney, the chief of staff to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, resigned from his post . His departure follows the intensifying fallout over Peter Mandelson’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which resurfaced in a massive new cache of files released by the US Department of Justice (DoJ).&nbsp;McSweeney, widely regarded as the architect of Starmer’s 2024 landslide election victory, took "full responsibility" in his resignation letter for recommending Mandelson’s appointment as the UK Ambassador to the United States. "The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself," McSweeney said in a statement shared by political correspondents on X. Mandelson was sacked from his ambassadorial role in September 2025 after documents released by the DOJ revealed the true extent of his financial and personal ties with Epstein, including allegations that he shared market-sensitive information with the financier during the 2008 financial crisis. Following the latest revelations in early 2026, Mandelson also resigned from the Labour Party and the House of Lords.

The exits of both Allan and McSweeney are linked to a deepening crisis over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the US, whose name resurfaced in the Epstein files with explosive new allegations.


UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's executive director of communications, Tim Allan, resigned on Monday (Feb 09), just five months in the role. His departure comes a day after the resignation of Starmer's Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney, just a day earlier. "I have decided to stand down to allow a new No. 10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success," Allen said in a statement. Tim Allan is the fourth person to hold the communications role under Starmer in less than a year, highlighting the significant instability currently facing the administration. The exits of both Allan and McSweeney are linked to a deepening crisis over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the US, whose name resurfaced in the Epstein files with explosive new allegations. Also Read: UK PM’s Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney resigns as Epstein–Mandelson fallout intensifies On Sunday, Morgan McSweeney, the chief of staff to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, resigned from his post . His departure follows the intensifying fallout over Peter Mandelson’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which resurfaced in a massive new cache of files released by the US Department of Justice (DoJ). McSweeney, widely regarded as the architect of Starmer’s 2024 landslide election victory, took "full responsibility" in his resignation letter for recommending Mandelson’s appointment as the UK Ambassador to the United States. "The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself," McSweeney said in a statement shared by political correspondents on X. Mandelson was sacked from his ambassadorial role in September 2025 after documents released by the DOJ revealed the true extent of his financial and personal ties with Epstein, including allegations that he shared market-sensitive information with the financier during the 2008 financial crisis. Following the latest revelations in early 2026, Mandelson also resigned from the Labour Party and the House of Lords.

The exits of both Allan and McSweeney are linked to a deepening crisis over the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the US, whose name resurfaced in the Epstein files with explosive new allegations. &nbsp;

UK PM’s communications head quits, a day after his chief of staff resigned in Epstein fallout

As pressure mounts on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speculation in Westminster is intensifying over who could take the reins if his leadership falters. Among the names gaining traction is Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, widely regarded as a serious contender to lead the Labour Party, a development that could see Britain appoint its first Muslim prime minister. The renewed talk follows the fallout from the recently released Epstein files, which have triggered political tremors across Europe and beyond.<h2>Who is Shabana Mahmood?</h2>Shabana Mahmood, 45, is a barrister-turned-politician and one of Starmer’s trusted allies. Known within Labour as a compelling orator with a strong political drive, she is often associated with the party’s right flank. Born in Birmingham, Mahmood pursued law at Lincoln College, Oxford, graduating in 2002. She completed her Bar Vocational Course at the Inns of Court School of Law the following year, qualifying as a barrister. Her political breakthrough came in 2010 when she entered Parliament alongside Rushanara Ali and Yasmin Qureshi, becoming one of the UK’s first Muslim women MPs. Since taking charge of the Home Office in 2025, she has overseen critical portfolios, including border security.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-action-on-musk-s-x-eu-warns-meta-to-open-whatsapp-to-rival-ai-chatbots-1770633373171">After action on Musk’s X, EU warns Meta to open WhatsApp to rival AI chatbots</a><h2>A tough stance on migration</h2>Mahmood’s background and political stance give her a distinctive appeal, though critics have occasionally labelled this dual positioning contradictory. As a Muslim leader, she is seen by some as capable of reconnecting with pro-Palestine voters who distanced themselves from Labour over its support for Israel’s military campaign. Yet her policy approach has been notably firm, especially on immigration. She recently introduced contentious proposals to restrict the route to permanent residency, or indefinite leave to remain, insisting that settlement should be viewed as a “privilege rather than an automatic entitlement.”<h2>Starmer under fire over Epstein-linked controversy</h2>Attention on Mahmood has intensified amid one of the most turbulent periods of Starmer’s premiership. The crisis erupted after Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to Washington drew scrutiny due to his historical links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Matters escalated further when Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, stepped down, accepting responsibility for the appointment, a move intended to shield the prime minister. However, several Labour MPs argue that accountability ultimately lies with Starmer himself.<h2>Who are the other frontrunners besides Shabana?&nbsp;</h2>Mahmood is not alone in the leadership conversation. Several prominent Labour figures are also being discussed:<ul><li>Angela Rayner: The former deputy prime minister remains the bookmakers’ favourite. Despite resigning last September amid a tax probe related to a property purchase, she continues to enjoy strong backing from Labour’s left and has pushed the government into reversing decisions linked to Mandelson.</li><li>Wes Streeting: The health secretary is viewed as media-savvy and ambitious. However, his association with Mandelson and support for private-sector participation in the NHS have alienated parts of the party’s progressive base.</li><li>Ed Miliband: Once Labour leader, Miliband is experiencing a political revival. Popular among the “soft left,” he still carries the shadow of the party’s defeat in the 2015 general election.</li><li>Andy Burnham: The Greater Manchester mayor is well-liked but faces a procedural obstacle; he is not currently an MP. While parliamentary rules allow a non-member to become prime minister temporarily, securing a Commons seat would be essential.</li></ul><h2>Where Mahmood stands</h2>Mahmood’s ascent is rooted in her reputation for decisiveness and discipline, qualities some within Labour believe are necessary to win back voters drifting toward Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. Her flagship proposal seeks to extend the qualifying period for permanent residency for most migrant workers from five years to ten. She has justified the move by pointing to what she calls an “unprecedented” surge in migration that demands firm policy action.&nbsp;The proposal has, however, unsettled colleagues. Roughly 40 Labour MPs have criticised the retrospective nature of the changes, calling them “un-British” and likening them to shifting the goalposts. Critics such as MP Rachael Maskell warn the policy could deepen skills shortages, particularly in healthcare. Beyond immigration, Mahmood has taken assertive positions on policing and security, rejecting demands for devolved Welsh police powers and backing the nationwide deployment of facial recognition technology despite civil liberties concerns.<h3>What are her chances?</h3>Bookmakers currently assign Mahmood odds of 9/1, roughly translating to a 10% likelihood of securing the leadership. Still, her perceived ability to appeal to both the party’s right wing and Muslim voters positions her as a credible dark horse. For Mahmood to mount a successful bid, Starmer would need to step down or face a leadership challenge supported by at least 81 Labour MPs, equivalent to 20% of the parliamentary party. Whether she can convert the present turmoil into a political opportunity may hinge on public reaction to her immigration agenda and her capacity to present herself as a firm yet steady alternative at a time of uncertainty.

Amid Epstein fallout, Keir Starmer faces leadership heat as Shabana Mahmood emerges as frontrunner. Who is she?

As pressure mounts on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speculation in Westminster is intensifying over who could take the reins if his leadership falters. Among the names gaining traction is Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, widely regarded as a serious contender to lead the Labour Party, a development that could see Britain appoint its first Muslim prime minister. The renewed talk follows the fallout from the recently released Epstein files, which have triggered political tremors across Europe and beyond. Who is Shabana Mahmood? Shabana Mahmood, 45, is a barrister-turned-politician and one of Starmer’s trusted allies. Known within Labour as a compelling orator with a strong political drive, she is often associated with the party’s right flank. Born in Birmingham, Mahmood pursued law at Lincoln College, Oxford, graduating in 2002. She completed her Bar Vocational Course at the Inns of Court School of Law the following year, qualifying as a barrister. Her political breakthrough came in 2010 when she entered Parliament alongside Rushanara Ali and Yasmin Qureshi, becoming one of the UK’s first Muslim women MPs. Since taking charge of the Home Office in 2025, she has overseen critical portfolios, including border security. Also Read: After action on Musk’s X, EU warns Meta to open WhatsApp to rival AI chatbots A tough stance on migration Mahmood’s background and political stance give her a distinctive appeal, though critics have occasionally labelled this dual positioning contradictory. As a Muslim leader, she is seen by some as capable of reconnecting with pro-Palestine voters who distanced themselves from Labour over its support for Israel’s military campaign. Yet her policy approach has been notably firm, especially on immigration. She recently introduced contentious proposals to restrict the route to permanent residency, or indefinite leave to remain, insisting that settlement should be viewed as a “privilege rather than an automatic entitlement.” Starmer under fire over Epstein-linked controversy Attention on Mahmood has intensified amid one of the most turbulent periods of Starmer’s premiership. The crisis erupted after Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to Washington drew scrutiny due to his historical links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Matters escalated further when Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, stepped down, accepting responsibility for the appointment, a move intended to shield the prime minister. However, several Labour MPs argue that accountability ultimately lies with Starmer himself. Who are the other frontrunners besides Shabana? Mahmood is not alone in the leadership conversation. Several prominent Labour figures are also being discussed: Angela Rayner: The former deputy prime minister remains the bookmakers’ favourite. Despite resigning last September amid a tax probe related to a property purchase, she continues to enjoy strong backing from Labour’s left and has pushed the government into reversing decisions linked to Mandelson. Wes Streeting: The health secretary is viewed as media-savvy and ambitious. However, his association with Mandelson and support for private-sector participation in the NHS have alienated parts of the party’s progressive base. Ed Miliband: Once Labour leader, Miliband is experiencing a political revival. Popular among the “soft left,” he still carries the shadow of the party’s defeat in the 2015 general election. Andy Burnham: The Greater Manchester mayor is well-liked but faces a procedural obstacle; he is not currently an MP. While parliamentary rules allow a non-member to become prime minister temporarily, securing a Commons seat would be essential. Where Mahmood stands Mahmood’s ascent is rooted in her reputation for decisiveness and discipline, qualities some within Labour believe are necessary to win back voters drifting toward Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. Her flagship proposal seeks to extend the qualifying period for permanent residency for most migrant workers from five years to ten. She has justified the move by pointing to what she calls an “unprecedented” surge in migration that demands firm policy action. The proposal has, however, unsettled colleagues. Roughly 40 Labour MPs have criticised the retrospective nature of the changes, calling them “un-British” and likening them to shifting the goalposts. Critics such as MP Rachael Maskell warn the policy could deepen skills shortages, particularly in healthcare. Beyond immigration, Mahmood has taken assertive positions on policing and security, rejecting demands for devolved Welsh police powers and backing the nationwide deployment of facial recognition technology despite civil liberties concerns. What are her chances? Bookmakers currently assign Mahmood odds of 9/1, roughly translating to a 10% likelihood of securing the leadership. Still, her perceived ability to appeal to both the party’s right wing and Muslim voters positions her as a credible dark horse. For Mahmood to mount a successful bid, Starmer would need to step down or face a leadership challenge supported by at least 81 Labour MPs, equivalent to 20% of the parliamentary party. Whether she can convert the present turmoil into a political opportunity may hinge on public reaction to her immigration agenda and her capacity to present herself as a firm yet steady alternative at a time of uncertainty.

Shabana Mahmood is emerging as a leading contender for UK PM as Keir Starmer battles a deepening crisis, with her tough immigration stance defining her rise

On Monday (Feb 9), the Westminster Committee report urged the UK government to unmask British intelligence agent Stakeknife and publicly reveal his name. In 2003, he was named in several newspapers as Freddie Scappaticci, a resident of Belfast. The agent, also known as the British Army’s and MI5’s ‘golden egg’, was active from the 1970s until the early 90s.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-s-mi5-suppressed-truth-about-spy-with-ira-1765361955268/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-s-mi5-suppressed-truth-about-spy-with-ira-1765361955268/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In December 2025, a UK police investigation into the affair called ‘Operation Kenova’ produced a final report. This document made big revelations. The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report accuses the UK government of using national security policies to ‘cover up’ state wrongdoing. As the state has been using the neither confirm nor deny (NCND) policy to keep the agent's identity under wraps.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Agent Stakeknife?</h2>&nbsp;The agent codenamed Stakeknife has been linked to 14 murders and 15 abductions. Though he passed away in 2023 at the age of 77, he is still being shielded by the British army and MI5. The former is said to be his handler, and the latter would route tasks through them. Stakeknife was viewed as the ‘golden egg’ as he operated within the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in Northern Ireland and even rose in rank. During the decades-long conflict, the period was called ‘The Troubles’, in which more than 3,500 people were killed.&nbsp;He was originally recruited by the British Army's secretive intelligence wing in 1978. Two years later, the Force Research Unit (FRU) was formed, a secretive branch of military intelligence, where he became the most elite asset. ‘Golden egg’ and 'jewel in the crown' were names used for him.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reveal-identity-of-dead-spy-pressure-mounts-on-uk-government-to-release-data-on-agent-stakeknife-1770617504712">Reveal identity of dead spy: Pressure mounts on UK government to release data on Agent Stakeknife</a>&nbsp;<h2>The spy who turned spycatcher</h2>&nbsp;Agent Stakeknife reached a level where he began heading the IRA's unit, where he was recruited into the Internal Security Unit (ISU), which was also called the ‘nutting squad’. This unit was tasked to weed out moles in the system. ‘Operation Kenova’s’ final report pointed out that on occasions, Stakeknife even wiped out his own colleagues to keep his cover safe. Gaining trust within the IRA and also becoming the enemy of his own, he was called a double agent.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report February 2026, urges the UK government to reveal Agent Stakeknife's identity publicly. 

On Monday (Feb 9), the Westminster Committee report urged the UK government to unmask British intelligence agent Stakeknife and publicly reveal his name. In 2003, he was named in several newspapers as Freddie Scappaticci, a resident of Belfast. The agent, also known as the British Army’s and MI5’s ‘golden egg’, was active from the 1970s until the early 90s. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-s-mi5-suppressed-truth-about-spy-with-ira-1765361955268/embed In December 2025, a UK police investigation into the affair called ‘Operation Kenova’ produced a final report. This document made big revelations. The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report accuses the UK government of using national security policies to ‘cover up’ state wrongdoing. As the state has been using the neither confirm nor deny (NCND) policy to keep the agent's identity under wraps. Who is Agent Stakeknife? The agent codenamed Stakeknife has been linked to 14 murders and 15 abductions. Though he passed away in 2023 at the age of 77, he is still being shielded by the British army and MI5. The former is said to be his handler, and the latter would route tasks through them. Stakeknife was viewed as the ‘golden egg’ as he operated within the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in Northern Ireland and even rose in rank. During the decades-long conflict, the period was called ‘The Troubles’, in which more than 3,500 people were killed. He was originally recruited by the British Army's secretive intelligence wing in 1978. Two years later, the Force Research Unit (FRU) was formed, a secretive branch of military intelligence, where he became the most elite asset. ‘Golden egg’ and 'jewel in the crown' were names used for him. Also read: Reveal identity of dead spy: Pressure mounts on UK government to release data on Agent Stakeknife The spy who turned spycatcher Agent Stakeknife reached a level where he began heading the IRA's unit, where he was recruited into the Internal Security Unit (ISU), which was also called the ‘nutting squad’. This unit was tasked to weed out moles in the system. ‘Operation Kenova’s’ final report pointed out that on occasions, Stakeknife even wiped out his own colleagues to keep his cover safe. Gaining trust within the IRA and also becoming the enemy of his own, he was called a double agent.

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report, February 2026, urges the UK government to reveal Agent Stakeknife's identity publicly.&nbsp;

Who is Stakeknife? The dead 'double agent' UK continues to shield

The recently released Epstein files show an email correspondence where billionaire Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein were invited by Terje Rod-Larsen, a Norwegian diplomat and former President of the International Peace Institute, for an international conference in Geneva on “Preparing for Pandemics: Lessons Learned for More Effective Responses”.The mail appeared to be a preparation based on the previous challenges, faced by the international community, Ebola and Polio. Margaret Chan, Director General of WHO, Peter Maurer, President of ICRC, Michael Moller, acting Head of the UN Office in Geneva, and Kevin Rudd, former Prime Minister of Australia, were part of the conference. The mail was dated June 2, 2015.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-epstein-victims-legal-aid-super-bowl-ad-epstein-files-1770622900847">Elon Musk offers legal aid to Epstein victims after Super Bowl ad, despite his own mentions in Epstein files</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Screenshot of EFTA00855459

&nbsp;Interestingly, Pirbright Institute, a biological research organisation based in Surrey, England, granted Patent US10130701B2, in November 2018, which covers the development of a weakened form of the coronavirus that could potentially be used as a vaccine to prevent respiratory diseases in birds, including IBV, and other animals, according to a report by USA Today. There have been several conspiracy theories about the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funding the Pirbright Institute. The foundation has provided two grants to Pirbright in 2013 and in 2016, for the development of a universal flu vaccine, to combat the effects of farm animals and viruses that have the potential to spread to humans. But it denied funding the development of Pirbright’s coronavirus vaccine for livestock.In October 2019, just months ahead of the COVID-19 outbreak, Jhon Hopkins Centre for Health and Security, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum and the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation, organised a simulation called Event 201, which modelled an outbreak of a novel zoonotic coronavirus, transmitted from bats to pigs to people. Just months ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic in September 2019, the Gates Foundation bought a position in BioNTech. It invested $55 million in the biotech, with the potential for total funding to reach $100 million. BioNTech, along with Pfizer, became the first organisation to develop an mRNA vaccine for COVID-19.&nbsp;The mail doesn't implicate any wrongdoing, but it adds to the pile of circumstantial evidence through its timing and participants that fuels conspiracy theories. It has drawn attention that places Epstein in proximity to global health institution and pandemic preparedness efforts in the years preceding COVID 19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The Epstein files reveal a 2015 email inviting Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein to a high-level pandemic preparedness conference in Geneva. While the correspondence shows no wrongdoing, it has renewed scrutiny amid broader debates around COVID-19, Event 201, and global health governance.

The recently released Epstein files show an email correspondence where billionaire Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein were invited by Terje Rod-Larsen, a Norwegian diplomat and former President of the International Peace Institute, for an international conference in Geneva on “Preparing for Pandemics: Lessons Learned for More Effective Responses”. The mail appeared to be a preparation based on the previous challenges, faced by the international community, Ebola and Polio. Margaret Chan, Director General of WHO, Peter Maurer, President of ICRC, Michael Moller, acting Head of the UN Office in Geneva, and Kevin Rudd, former Prime Minister of Australia, were part of the conference. The mail was dated June 2, 2015. Also Read: Elon Musk offers legal aid to Epstein victims after Super Bowl ad, despite his own mentions in Epstein files

The Epstein files reveal a 2015 email inviting Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein to a high-level pandemic preparedness conference in Geneva. While the correspondence shows no wrongdoing, it has renewed scrutiny amid broader debates around COVID-19, Event 201, and global health governance.

Epstein files reveal 2015 email linking Bill Gates, Jeffrey Epstein to global pandemic preparedness conference

The European Union on Monday (Feb 09) asked Meta to provide rival chatbots access to WhatsApp after an antitrust found Mark Zukurburg's tech firm in breach of the bloc's competition rules. According to the European Commission, a change in Meta's terms had "effectively" blocked third-party artificial intelligence assistance from connecting to customers using its messaging platform since January. "Considering quickly imposing interim measures on Meta, to preserve access for competitors to WhatsApp while the investigation is ongoing, and avoid Meta's new policy irreparably harming competition in Europe," bloc's competition chief Teresa Ribera said. The 27-nation bloc also sent a formal warning to Meta through "a statement of objections" as part of an ongoing antitrust investigation. The US tech giant rejected the commission's finding, saying "The facts are that there is no reason for the EU to intervene," a Meta spokesperson said. "There are many AI options, and people can use them from app stores, operating systems, devices, websites, and industry partnerships. The commission's logic incorrectly assumes the WhatsApp Business API is a key distribution channel for these chatbots," the spokesperson said. The European Union is actively implanting measure to put checks on the power of Big Tech, many of whom are based in the United States, despite strong pushback from Donald Trump and his officials in Washington.&nbsp;"We cannot allow dominant tech companies to illegally leverage their dominance to give themselves an unfair advantage," Ribera said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-shivam-mishra-tobacoo-baron-s-car-crazed-son-who-rammed-his-lamborghini-into-pedestrians-in-kanpur-1770625580796">Who is Shivam Mishra, Tobacco baron's car-crazed son who rammed his Lamborghini into pedestrians in Kanpur</a>&nbsp;The action against Meta comes after the EU launched a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X on January 26. The probe follows widespread controversy over the generation of non-consensual sexualized deepfake images, including those of minors, by the platform’s AI chatbot, Grok. Under the Digital Services Act (DSA).&nbsp;Earlier, the European Union imposed a $140 million fine on X for breaching the bloc's transparency rules under the Digital Service Act (DSA). The regulators sEuropean regulators found X guilty of three violations after a two-year probe.

The 27-nation bloc also sent a formal warning to Meta through "a statement of objections" as part of an ongoing antitrust investigation.

The European Union on Monday (Feb 09) asked Meta to provide rival chatbots access to WhatsApp after an antitrust found Mark Zukurburg's tech firm in breach of the bloc's competition rules. According to the European Commission, a change in Meta's terms had "effectively" blocked third-party artificial intelligence assistance from connecting to customers using its messaging platform since January. "Considering quickly imposing interim measures on Meta, to preserve access for competitors to WhatsApp while the investigation is ongoing, and avoid Meta's new policy irreparably harming competition in Europe," bloc's competition chief Teresa Ribera said. The 27-nation bloc also sent a formal warning to Meta through "a statement of objections" as part of an ongoing antitrust investigation. The US tech giant rejected the commission's finding, saying "The facts are that there is no reason for the EU to intervene," a Meta spokesperson said. "There are many AI options, and people can use them from app stores, operating systems, devices, websites, and industry partnerships. The commission's logic incorrectly assumes the WhatsApp Business API is a key distribution channel for these chatbots," the spokesperson said. The European Union is actively implanting measure to put checks on the power of Big Tech, many of whom are based in the United States, despite strong pushback from Donald Trump and his officials in Washington. "We cannot allow dominant tech companies to illegally leverage their dominance to give themselves an unfair advantage," Ribera said in a statement. Also Read: Who is Shivam Mishra, Tobacco baron's car-crazed son who rammed his Lamborghini into pedestrians in Kanpur The action against Meta comes after the EU launched a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X on January 26. The probe follows widespread controversy over the generation of non-consensual sexualized deepfake images, including those of minors, by the platform’s AI chatbot, Grok. Under the Digital Services Act (DSA). Earlier, the European Union imposed a $140 million fine on X for breaching the bloc's transparency rules under the Digital Service Act (DSA). The regulators sEuropean regulators found X guilty of three violations after a two-year probe.

The 27-nation bloc also sent a formal warning to Meta through "a statement of objections" as part of an ongoing antitrust investigation.

After action on Musk’s X, EU warns Meta to open WhatsApp to rival AI chatbots

Tesla billionaire Elon Musk offered to pay for the legal costs of any victim of the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein if they decide to come forward and name their perpetrators. This comes after the Super Bowl advertisement featuring Epstein's victims was aired.&nbsp;“I will pay for the defence of anyone who speaks the truth and gets sued for doing so,” said Musk. Musk made the offer in response to a post by conservative commentator Matt Walsh. Matt Walsh indulged in victim-blaming, saying that this is an orchestrated attempt and the timing is just after the term of Joe Biden.&nbsp;“They could simply give the names to any of their many (and mostly very recent) advocates in Congress, who could read the names out loud from the floor, insulating themselves and these women from any litigation,” Walsh posted. “But they refuse to do that. Why?”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-designer-baby-genetic-enhancement-transhumanism-1770553755631">Epstein files reveal ‘designer baby’ project, genetic experiments and links to transhumanism</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I will pay for the defense of anyone who speaks the truth about this and is sued for doing so&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2020635623267381253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Elon Musk himself have featured on the Epstein list. Before the latest dump of the Epstein files, Musk had vehemently advocated for the release of the Epstein Files. He claimed that Epstein had requested him on several occasions to visit his island. But as the files were released, there were several occasions when Elon Musk was insisting on visiting Epstein Island for the “wildest party”, one such instance, Epstein asked Ghislaine Maxwell to “deal with this". Musk went on a rampage at first, he denied ever setting foot on Epstein Island and “Lolita Express”, then he said it was a “smear campaign” against him.Both Musk and Walsh are engaging in psychological reductionism. Reducing everything to the individual perpetrators, instead of looking at the structure that aided and abetted Epstein, politicians, celebrities, media personalities, bankers, and billionaires maintained communication with him even after his conviction and patronised his parties and gatherings. It is unclear whether they are unaware of the fact that the victims in their testimonies have named several individuals, like Jes Staley, Leon Black, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Glenn Dubin, Marvin Minsky, Leslie Groff, Harvey Weinstein, etc. Further, these girls have been systematically harassed, abused and threatened by powerful people for maintaining silence.

Elon Musk offers to pay legal costs for Epstein victims who speak out after a Super Bowl ad, as Epstein files reveal Musk’s own links and contradictions.

Tesla billionaire Elon Musk offered to pay for the legal costs of any victim of the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein if they decide to come forward and name their perpetrators. This comes after the Super Bowl advertisement featuring Epstein's victims was aired. “I will pay for the defence of anyone who speaks the truth and gets sued for doing so,” said Musk. Musk made the offer in response to a post by conservative commentator Matt Walsh. Matt Walsh indulged in victim-blaming, saying that this is an orchestrated attempt and the timing is just after the term of Joe Biden. “They could simply give the names to any of their many (and mostly very recent) advocates in Congress, who could read the names out loud from the floor, insulating themselves and these women from any litigation,” Walsh posted. “But they refuse to do that. Why?” Also Read: Epstein files reveal ‘designer baby’ project, genetic experiments and links to transhumanism

Elon Musk offers to pay legal costs for Epstein victims who speak out after a Super Bowl ad, as Epstein files reveal Musk’s own links and contradictions.

Elon Musk offers legal aid to Epstein victims after super bowl ad, despite his own mentions in Epstein files

On Monday (Feb 9), the UK government was under pressure to name the British army agent, Stakeknife, who led the operation orchestrated to torture and carry out killings while undercover with the Irish Republican Army (IRA). During a parliamentary discussion, the committee called on the government to name the agent. He led an IRA death squad known called the nutting squad. In the 1970s, Agent Stakeknife operated inside the IRA in Northern Ireland, this was during the decades-long conflict. The period was called ‘The Troubles’ in which more than 3,500 people were killed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-s-mi5-suppressed-truth-about-spy-with-ira-1765361955268/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-s-mi5-suppressed-truth-about-spy-with-ira-1765361955268/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Stakeknife led a team which interrogated and executed suspected traitors and informers. Much later, in December 2025, a UK police inquiry into the affair, called ‘Operation Kenova’, produced a final report. It was in this document that Agent Stakeknife was found guilty of the most serious crimes.&nbsp;After nine years of labour, the report noted that neither the army nor Britain's domestic intelligence service, MI5, was able to control the agent. On Feb 9, the parliamentary committee argued that revealing the identity of&nbsp;Stakeknife&nbsp;would be "strongly in the public interest". Doing so would "help build trust and confidence in the agencies of the state among all communities", said a statement from the committee as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mi5-issues-chilling-warning-to-uk-mps-china-russia-iran-spies-trying-to-erode-the-foundations-of-our-sovereignty-1760406481007">MI5 issues chilling warning to UK MPs: China, Russia, Iran spies trying to 'erode the foundations of our sovereignty'</a>&nbsp;"By naming&nbsp;Stakeknife, the government can send a strong signal that agents who cross a line will not receive the protection of anonymity and help to build trust and confidence across all communities in Northern Ireland," said committee chairwoman Tonia Antoniazzi.&nbsp;The agent in question has been linked to 14 murders and 15 abductions. While never formally identified, he is widely believed to have been Belfast man Freddie Scappaticci.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Parliamentary committee asks the UK government to name Agent Stakeknife, who has been linked to 14 murders and 15 abductions.

On Monday (Feb 9), the UK government was under pressure to name the British army agent, Stakeknife, who led the operation orchestrated to torture and carry out killings while undercover with the Irish Republican Army (IRA). During a parliamentary discussion, the committee called on the government to name the agent. He led an IRA death squad known called the nutting squad. In the 1970s, Agent Stakeknife operated inside the IRA in Northern Ireland, this was during the decades-long conflict. The period was called ‘The Troubles’ in which more than 3,500 people were killed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-s-mi5-suppressed-truth-about-spy-with-ira-1765361955268/embed Stakeknife led a team which interrogated and executed suspected traitors and informers. Much later, in December 2025, a UK police inquiry into the affair, called ‘Operation Kenova’, produced a final report. It was in this document that Agent Stakeknife was found guilty of the most serious crimes. After nine years of labour, the report noted that neither the army nor Britain's domestic intelligence service, MI5, was able to control the agent. On Feb 9, the parliamentary committee argued that revealing the identity of Stakeknife would be "strongly in the public interest". Doing so would "help build trust and confidence in the agencies of the state among all communities", said a statement from the committee as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read: MI5 issues chilling warning to UK MPs: China, Russia, Iran spies trying to 'erode the foundations of our sovereignty' "By naming Stakeknife, the government can send a strong signal that agents who cross a line will not receive the protection of anonymity and help to build trust and confidence across all communities in Northern Ireland," said committee chairwoman Tonia Antoniazzi. The agent in question has been linked to 14 murders and 15 abductions. While never formally identified, he is widely believed to have been Belfast man Freddie Scappaticci.

Parliamentary committee asks the UK government to name Agent Stakeknife, who has been linked to 14 murders and 15 abductions.

Reveal identity of dead spy: Pressure mounts on UK government to release data on Agent Stakeknife

In the newly released tranche of the Epstein files, an unclassified audio conversation featured Jeffrey Epstein and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak discussing Barack Obama, Israel and Russia. Ehud Barak approached Putin with the prospect of immigrants transforming the region in favour of Israel. Barak suggested that Israel could “easily absorb another one million” Russian-speaking immigrants, hinting at the White-Slavic ethnicity.&nbsp;“I think, with [a] much more open mind about turning Jews, we can easily absorb another million. I have to tell Putin always that what we need is not just one more million. We need, dramatically, the million Russians,” he said. “I see that many prefer to be Belarusian, or maybe young, handsome girls will come.”"I believe we have to break the monopoly of the Orthodox rabbinate on marriage and funerals and whatever, and on the definition of a Jew,” said Barak.In 1948, during the formation of Israel, Eastern European Ashkenazi Jews made up the majority population of Israel, along with Sephardi Jews from the Middle East and North Africa. In the audio, Barak seems to disparage the Middle East and North African Jews. With the fall of the Soviet Union, a massive influx of migrants spread across the newly independent states, as well as Germany, Israel, and the United States. Nearly a million Russians emigrated to Israel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-designer-baby-genetic-enhancement-transhumanism-1770553755631">Epstein files reveal ‘designer baby’ project, genetic experiments and links to transhumanism</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BREAKING: 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇮🇱 Ex-Israeli PM Ehud Barak tells Jeffrey Epstein he repeatedly told Putin he wanted a million Russians to convert to Judaism and become Israeli to dramatically transform Israel: &quot;I used to tell Putin, always, what we need is just one more million to change Israel… <a href="https://t.co/K5n28cEiMQ">pic.twitter.com/K5n28cEiMQ</a>&mdash; Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/2018825395655659886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“We can control the quality much more effectively, much more than the founding fathers of Israel did,” he said. “They took whatever came. They had to save people. Now, we can be more selective.” He further added that the Haredim are more productive than the Arabs, hinting at the high population growth. But he also discussed the disparity between secular and orthodox. Secular people usually has less children than the Haredim. If there is a failure of the two-state solution, then it will be an “Arab majority” in the case of ”one state". He said that it was the “collective blindness” of Jewish society, pointing out the growing population of Arab Israelis.&nbsp;The audio recording, which ran over three hours, has references to Iran, Barak's perceived strategy of the Iranian regime of continuity. Iran is determined to follow in the footsteps of Pakistan and North Korea, and they want to avoid the trap of Libya and Iraq. He suggested that something more drastic is needed; only sanctions will not produce the desired result.&nbsp;

Unreleased Epstein Files audio reveals former Israeli PM Ehud Barak discussing Russian immigration, Israeli demographics, Iran strategy and one-state fears.

In the newly released tranche of the Epstein files, an unclassified audio conversation featured Jeffrey Epstein and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak discussing Barack Obama, Israel and Russia. Ehud Barak approached Putin with the prospect of immigrants transforming the region in favour of Israel. Barak suggested that Israel could “easily absorb another one million” Russian-speaking immigrants, hinting at the White-Slavic ethnicity. “I think, with [a] much more open mind about turning Jews, we can easily absorb another million. I have to tell Putin always that what we need is not just one more million. We need, dramatically, the million Russians,” he said. “I see that many prefer to be Belarusian, or maybe young, handsome girls will come.” "I believe we have to break the monopoly of the Orthodox rabbinate on marriage and funerals and whatever, and on the definition of a Jew,” said Barak. In 1948, during the formation of Israel, Eastern European Ashkenazi Jews made up the majority population of Israel, along with Sephardi Jews from the Middle East and North Africa. In the audio, Barak seems to disparage the Middle East and North African Jews. With the fall of the Soviet Union, a massive influx of migrants spread across the newly independent states, as well as Germany, Israel, and the United States. Nearly a million Russians emigrated to Israel. Also Read: Epstein files reveal ‘designer baby’ project, genetic experiments and links to transhumanism

Unreleased Epstein Files audio reveals former Israeli PM Ehud Barak discussing Russian immigration, Israeli demographics, Iran strategy and one-state fears.

Epstein Files: Ehud Barak discussed bringing a million Russian immigrants to counter Arab majority in Israel

Ghislaine Maxwell, the jailed associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, is scheduled to give a deposition before congressional investigators but her lawyers said that she intends to refuse to answer questions before the House's Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Maxwell, who was found guilty in 2021 for her role in helping Epstein sexually abuse teenage girls and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence, plans to invoke her Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and decline to answer all substantive questions, according to United States lawmaker Ro Khanna’s letter to Representative James Comer, the committee chair.&nbsp;&nbsp;In front of the House's Committee on Oversight, Maxwell reportedly will read a prepared statement at the beginning of her deposition. Khanna has not revealed the source of his information. Maxwell's attorney has not responded to the development yet. Khanna said that her position “appears inconsistent” with her with prior conduct, as she did not invoke the Fifth Amendment when she previously met with US Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to discuss substantially similar subject matter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-doj-meets-ghislaine-maxwell-if-she-sings-heads-will-roll-but-can-she-what-s-in-it-for-her-jeffrey-epstein-sex-trafficking-news-1753426658071">DOJ interviews Ghislaine Maxwell: If she sings, heads will roll but can she? What's in it for her?</a>&nbsp;Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence at the Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Bryan, a minimum-security facility for women in Texas. Earlier, when the panel selected a date, Maxwell's legal team said in a letter to the committee that proceeding under these circumstances would serve "no other purpose than pure political theater and a complete waste of taxpayer monies." Her lawyers had also said that she "cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity" as speaking from prison “creates real security risks and undermines the integrity of the process.” In July 2025, the committee declined to offer Maxwell legal immunity in exchange for her testimony. In August, the committee issued legal summons to Maxwell.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-ghislaine-maxwell-appeal-against-conviction-what-are-charges-against-her-and-why-appeal-was-rejected-1759763390249">Supreme Court rejects Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal against her conviction. What it means?</a><h2>Epstein Files and Ghislaine Maxwell</h2>In July-Aug, 2025, FBI Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche interviewed Maxwell and the US Department of Justice later released transcript and audio of the interview. In it, Maxwell denied ever seeing Donald Trump behave inappropriately, calling him “cordial” and a “gentleman,” and refuted knowledge of any Epstein “client list” or blackmail scheme. Maxwell also rejected suggestions that she introduced Epstein to the British royals, calling such claims “a flat untruth.” She cast doubt on Epstein’s reported suicide, suggesting it may have been the result of inmate violence within the prison. Additionally, she denied any wrongdoing by other public figures like Bill Clinton, Elon Musk, or Prince Andrew. The DOJ granted her limited immunity for the interview, without offering leniency, and later transferred her to a lower-security prison.&nbsp;Notably, in November 2025, US President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, mandating the public release of all Department of Justice (DOJ) materials related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigations. The law mandated that the Department of Justice (DOJ) release all relevant files by December 19, 2025. As of late January 2026, the DOJ has released only a small fraction of the approximately 2 million documents it holds.

Jailed Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell is set to appear before the US House Oversight Committee but plans to invoke the Fifth Amendment and refuse to answer questions. Lawmakers say the move contrasts with her earlier DOJ interview as scrutiny over the Epstein files continues.

Ghislaine Maxwell, the jailed associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, is scheduled to give a deposition before congressional investigators but her lawyers said that she intends to refuse to answer questions before the House's Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Maxwell, who was found guilty in 2021 for her role in helping Epstein sexually abuse teenage girls and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence, plans to invoke her Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and decline to answer all substantive questions, according to United States lawmaker Ro Khanna’s letter to Representative James Comer, the committee chair. In front of the House's Committee on Oversight, Maxwell reportedly will read a prepared statement at the beginning of her deposition. Khanna has not revealed the source of his information. Maxwell's attorney has not responded to the development yet. Khanna said that her position “appears inconsistent” with her with prior conduct, as she did not invoke the Fifth Amendment when she previously met with US Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to discuss substantially similar subject matter. Also Read: DOJ interviews Ghislaine Maxwell: If she sings, heads will roll but can she? What's in it for her? Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence at the Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Bryan, a minimum-security facility for women in Texas. Earlier, when the panel selected a date, Maxwell's legal team said in a letter to the committee that proceeding under these circumstances would serve "no other purpose than pure political theater and a complete waste of taxpayer monies." Her lawyers had also said that she "cannot risk further criminal exposure in a politically charged environment without formal immunity" as speaking from prison “creates real security risks and undermines the integrity of the process.” In July 2025, the committee declined to offer Maxwell legal immunity in exchange for her testimony. In August, the committee issued legal summons to Maxwell. Also Read: Supreme Court rejects Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal against her conviction. What it means? Epstein Files and Ghislaine Maxwell In July-Aug, 2025, FBI Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche interviewed Maxwell and the US Department of Justice later released transcript and audio of the interview. In it, Maxwell denied ever seeing Donald Trump behave inappropriately, calling him “cordial” and a “gentleman,” and refuted knowledge of any Epstein “client list” or blackmail scheme. Maxwell also rejected suggestions that she introduced Epstein to the British royals, calling such claims “a flat untruth.” She cast doubt on Epstein’s reported suicide, suggesting it may have been the result of inmate violence within the prison. Additionally, she denied any wrongdoing by other public figures like Bill Clinton, Elon Musk, or Prince Andrew. The DOJ granted her limited immunity for the interview, without offering leniency, and later transferred her to a lower-security prison. Notably, in November 2025, US President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, mandating the public release of all Department of Justice (DOJ) materials related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigations. The law mandated that the Department of Justice (DOJ) release all relevant files by December 19, 2025. As of late January 2026, the DOJ has released only a small fraction of the approximately 2 million documents it holds.

Jailed Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell is set to appear before the US House Oversight Committee but plans to invoke the Fifth Amendment and refuse to answer questions. Lawmakers say the move contrasts with her earlier DOJ interview as scrutiny over the Epstein files continues.

Can Ghislaine Maxwell invoke fifth amendment during US congressional deposition? What she said during 2025 DOJ interview?

Donald Trump reshared a map showing Greenland and Canada as part of the US, renewing his push to take over the Danish territory on national security grounds. Despite allied opposition, Trump argues Greenland is vital to counter China and Russia, keeping the issue alive amid global tensions.

Trump reshares new American map including Canada and Greenland as its part amid Iran tensions: What he means

A threatening banner in Tehran warned of ballistic missile strikes on central Israel if Iran is attacked, as US-Iran tensions rise. With the IDF on high alert and Trump intensifying pressure on Tehran, nuclear talks continue amid fears that escalation could spiral into conflict.

'You start, we finish it': Iran unveils map showing targets inside Israel

Amid rising tension between Washington and Tehran, the United States has issued a travel advisory to its citizens in Iran and have asked them to leave the West Asian country “immediately.” The advisory issued by the Trump administration has sparked speculations about a possible US strike on Tehran amid tussle between the two countries over nuclear deal. The advisory was issued by Virtual US Embassy in Iran, an online platform operated by the US Department of State to provide the Iranian people with direct access to official information. The advisory comes amid massive US military buildup around Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/khamenei-skips-key-military-event-for-first-time-in-37-years-is-us-strike-looming-over-iran-1770599399496">Khamenei skips key military event for first time in 37 years: Is US strike looming over Iran?</a><h2>What was the advisory?</h2>Citing increased security measures, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and internet blockages, the US said that its nationals should consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Turkiye. It said that people should look for ways to leave the country without the help of US government. “If you cannot leave, find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items. Avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay aware of your surroundings,” it said. In a lengthy notice, it also provided important numbers for its nationals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-push-iran-to-curb-missile-capabilities-in-nuclear-talks-1770607277084/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-push-iran-to-curb-missile-capabilities-in-nuclear-talks-1770607277084/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>US says its citizens can be detained in Iran</h2>To those planning to leave the country, US Department of State said that US-Iranian dual nationals must exit Iran on Iranian passports. It claimed that showing a US passport or demonstrating connections to the United States can be reason enough for Iranian authorities to detain someone.&nbsp;The advisory further detailed the criteria for people planning to leave via Armenian, Turkish, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan’s land border. It emphasized that US citizens should not travel to Afghanistan, Iraq, or the Pakistan-Iran border area. “The US government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Swiss government, acting through its embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for US interests in Iran,” it added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-s-special-envoys-witkoff-and-kushner-visit-us-aircraft-carrier-deployed-near-iran-what-s-happening-1770532582254">Trump's special envoy Witkoff and Kushner visit US aircraft carrier deployed near Iran - What's happening</a><h2>US attack on Iran imminent?</h2>On Feb 7, US envoys Steve Witkoff along with Jared Kushner and Brad Cooper, the commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), visited the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea. Trump has warned that of steep consequences if Iran does not negotiate with the US. In a February 5 interview, Trump stated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei should be "very worried." Moreover, he has signed an executive order calling for the “imposition of tariffs” on countries still doing business with Iran despite US sanctions. His pressure tactics continues amid nuclear talks between both sides.&nbsp;<h2>What's latest from nuclear talks?</h2>Amid Trump's threat and military buildup in the region including naval and air presence, Iran also agreed for talks while clearly stating that it won't give up on uranium enrichment. First round of talks took place in Muscat, Oman on February 6, with Iran describing it as a "good start." However, February 7, 2026.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (Feb 8) said that Tehran had little trust in Washington, and even doubted that the US side was taking renewed negotiations seriously. “Why do we insist so much on enrichment and refuse to give it up, even if a war is imposed on us? Because no one has the right to dictate our behavior,” Araghchi declared.

Amid rising US-Iran tensions, Washington has urged its citizens to leave Iran immediately, citing security risks and disruptions. Issued as US military pressure mounts and nuclear talks continue, the advisory has fuelled speculation over a possible American strike on Tehran.

Amid rising tension between Washington and Tehran, the United States has issued a travel advisory to its citizens in Iran and have asked them to leave the West Asian country “immediately.” The advisory issued by the Trump administration has sparked speculations about a possible US strike on Tehran amid tussle between the two countries over nuclear deal. The advisory was issued by Virtual US Embassy in Iran, an online platform operated by the US Department of State to provide the Iranian people with direct access to official information. The advisory comes amid massive US military buildup around Iran. Also Read: Khamenei skips key military event for first time in 37 years: Is US strike looming over Iran? What was the advisory? Citing increased security measures, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and internet blockages, the US said that its nationals should consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Turkiye. It said that people should look for ways to leave the country without the help of US government. “If you cannot leave, find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items. Avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay aware of your surroundings,” it said. In a lengthy notice, it also provided important numbers for its nationals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-push-iran-to-curb-missile-capabilities-in-nuclear-talks-1770607277084/embed US says its citizens can be detained in Iran To those planning to leave the country, US Department of State said that US-Iranian dual nationals must exit Iran on Iranian passports. It claimed that showing a US passport or demonstrating connections to the United States can be reason enough for Iranian authorities to detain someone. The advisory further detailed the criteria for people planning to leave via Armenian, Turkish, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan’s land border. It emphasized that US citizens should not travel to Afghanistan, Iraq, or the Pakistan-Iran border area. “The US government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Swiss government, acting through its embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for US interests in Iran,” it added. Also Read: Trump's special envoy Witkoff and Kushner visit US aircraft carrier deployed near Iran - What's happening US attack on Iran imminent? On Feb 7, US envoys Steve Witkoff along with Jared Kushner and Brad Cooper, the commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), visited the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea. Trump has warned that of steep consequences if Iran does not negotiate with the US. In a February 5 interview, Trump stated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei should be "very worried." Moreover, he has signed an executive order calling for the “imposition of tariffs” on countries still doing business with Iran despite US sanctions. His pressure tactics continues amid nuclear talks between both sides. What's latest from nuclear talks? Amid Trump's threat and military buildup in the region including naval and air presence, Iran also agreed for talks while clearly stating that it won't give up on uranium enrichment. First round of talks took place in Muscat, Oman on February 6, with Iran describing it as a "good start." However, February 7, 2026.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (Feb 8) said that Tehran had little trust in Washington, and even doubted that the US side was taking renewed negotiations seriously. “Why do we insist so much on enrichment and refuse to give it up, even if a war is imposed on us? Because no one has the right to dictate our behavior,” Araghchi declared.

Amid rising US-Iran tensions, Washington has urged its citizens to leave Iran immediately, citing security risks and disruptions. Issued as US military pressure mounts and nuclear talks continue, the advisory has fuelled speculation over a possible American strike on Tehran.

Trump administration says 'US citizens can be detained' in Iran, issues new advisory: Is US attack imminent?

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny made history with his Super Bowl Halftime performance, getting the crowd to groove to his beats. However, US President Donald Trump wasn't impressed, calling it "one of the worst ever" in the event's history. Trump slammed the performance, saying it was a "slap in the face" to the country.&nbsp;Bunny has been a critic of Trump and frequently criticised his administration. Recently, he slammed ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) during his acceptance speech at the Grammys.<h2>Trump slams Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance, calls it a 'slap in the face' to our country,"</h2>Soon after Bad Bunny's Super Bowl LX halftime performance at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, Trump was quick to slam it. Posting a long note on Truth Social, he called Bunny's history-making performance, ''terrible''.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pedro-pascal-to-cardi-b-how-many-celebrities-did-you-spot-on-stage-with-bad-bunny-during-his-super-bowl-set-1770613614693">Pedro Pascal to Cardi B: How many celebrities did you spot on stage with Bad Bunny during his Super Bowl set?</a>&nbsp;"The Super Bowl Halftime Show is absolutely terrible, one of the worst, EVER! It makes no sense, is an affront to the Greatness of America, and doesn’t represent our standards of Success, Creativity, or Excellence (sic)." He further criticised.

Trump slams Bad Bunny's

Puerto Rican artist has faced a huge backlash since he was announced as the Super Bowl performer last year, with Trump calling it “absolutely ridiculous.”&nbsp;Trump continued, "Nobody understands a word this guy is saying, and the dancing is disgusting, especially for young children that are watching from throughout the U.S.A., and all over the World."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/bad-bunny-brings-latin-roots-with-his-electrifying-performance-at-super-bowl-watch-1770604061518">Bad Bunny brings Latin roots with his electrifying performance at Super Bowl | Watch</a>&nbsp;The Grammy-winning&nbsp;artist had represented his Puerto Rican culture to the world's biggest football stage at Levi Stadium as he sang in Spanish. His show was made even more entertaining by special appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin.&nbsp;&nbsp;Concluded his complaint post about the performance, he wrote, "And, by the way, the NFL should immediately replace its ridiculous new Kickoff Rule."&nbsp;This is not the first time that Trump has criticised the decision to choose Bunny.&nbsp;During his appearance on NewsMax’s Greg Kelly Reports in October, he said, "I've never heard of him (Bad Bunny). I don't know who he is.''&nbsp;Bad Bunny's performance was a tribute to his culture. He delivered a halftime show that subtly included political messages. Throughout the performance, Bunny carried a football inscribed with the phrase “Together We Are America.”&nbsp;&nbsp;He ended his performance by naming countries across the Americas with the stadium screen displayed, “The only thing more powerful than hate is love.”

On Sunday, Bunny transformed the stadium into a massive street party. He performed several of his hit songs. 

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny made history with his Super Bowl Halftime performance, getting the crowd to groove to his beats. However, US President Donald Trump wasn't impressed, calling it "one of the worst ever" in the event's history. Trump slammed the performance, saying it was a "slap in the face" to the country. Bunny has been a critic of Trump and frequently criticised his administration. Recently, he slammed ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) during his acceptance speech at the Grammys. Trump slams Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance, calls it a 'slap in the face' to our country," Soon after Bad Bunny's Super Bowl LX halftime performance at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, Trump was quick to slam it. Posting a long note on Truth Social, he called Bunny's history-making performance, ''terrible''. Also read: Pedro Pascal to Cardi B: How many celebrities did you spot on stage with Bad Bunny during his Super Bowl set? "The Super Bowl Halftime Show is absolutely terrible, one of the worst, EVER! It makes no sense, is an affront to the Greatness of America, and doesn’t represent our standards of Success, Creativity, or Excellence (sic)." He further criticised.

Bunny has been a critic of Trump and frequently criticised his administration. Recently, he slammed ICE during his acceptance speech at the Grammys.

Terrible! Trump calls Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance a 'slap in the face to our country'

Republican Congressman Brandon Gill showed deep concern about the ‘Islamisation’ of Dallas. On Saturday (Feb 7), he highlighted how mosque are being erected in the locality. Gill also drew reference to the place looking more like ‘Pakistan’, which is an Islamic state. The Republican noted that communities are being transformed. “Texans shouldn’t go to the mall and feel like they’re in Pakistan,” he posted.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-immigration-crackdown-trump-calls-for-softer-touch-on-immigration-1770261653351/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-immigration-crackdown-trump-calls-for-softer-touch-on-immigration-1770261653351/embed</a>&nbsp;Gill expressed that mass Islamic migration is killing the America that ‘we know and love’. There seems to have been a significant shift in the demographic of his constituency, pointing at changing neighbourhood and a switch in culture. People of Dallas feel parts of the city is changing; in his video message, he said, “I hear from constituents all the time who are deeply and desperately concerned about the Islamisation of the Dallas area. They're hearing about mosques that are popping up near land that they have owned for generations. They're hearing about these epic city compounds that are popping up where you have entire communities that are being transformed.”&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO HERE:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Texans shouldn’t go to the mall and feel like they’re in Pakistan. Mass Islamic migration is killing the America we know and love. <a href="https://t.co/me2UyKpqcy">pic.twitter.com/me2UyKpqcy</a>&mdash; Congressman Brandon Gill (@RepBrandonGill) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepBrandonGill/status/2019841778757885993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“When you hear constituents talking about going to their local malls, and you look around, and it feels like you're in Pakistan, not Dallas, Texas, that's a problem. You're seeing our communities, our culture, the place that we know and love here being fundamentally transformed," he added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1-000-google-employees-sign-petition-to-cut-ties-with-ice-and-border-agencies-1770544730247">Over 1,000 Google employees sign petition to cut ties with ICE and border agencies</a>&nbsp;Many have responded to his post, to which X user Usman Khan wrote, “Muslims currently make up roughly 1% of the U.S. population and 1.1% of the Texas population.”&nbsp;Susan, another X user, who identifies as a Christian patriot, wrote, “My last trip to grapevine mills mall was my last trip there for a reason! All those people wearing hijabs or whatever they call them actually scare my young grandchildren.”

In a video message, Republican Congressman Brandon Gill highlighted the changing demographics of Dallas and his concerns. He mentioned his constituency ‘feels like Pakistan’.

Republican Congressman Brandon Gill showed deep concern about the ‘Islamisation’ of Dallas. On Saturday (Feb 7), he highlighted how mosque are being erected in the locality. Gill also drew reference to the place looking more like ‘Pakistan’, which is an Islamic state. The Republican noted that communities are being transformed. “Texans shouldn’t go to the mall and feel like they’re in Pakistan,” he posted. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-immigration-crackdown-trump-calls-for-softer-touch-on-immigration-1770261653351/embed Gill expressed that mass Islamic migration is killing the America that ‘we know and love’. There seems to have been a significant shift in the demographic of his constituency, pointing at changing neighbourhood and a switch in culture. People of Dallas feel parts of the city is changing; in his video message, he said, “I hear from constituents all the time who are deeply and desperately concerned about the Islamisation of the Dallas area. They're hearing about mosques that are popping up near land that they have owned for generations. They're hearing about these epic city compounds that are popping up where you have entire communities that are being transformed.” WATCH VIDEO HERE:

In a video message, Republican Congressman Brandon Gill highlighted the changing demographics of Dallas and his concerns. He mentioned his constituency ‘feels like Pakistan’.

Dallas 'feels like Pakistan': US lawmaker raises concerns over immigration, points at 'Islamisation'

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