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The recent tranche of Epstein emails released by the DOJ had mentioned a dinner table conversation between Epstein and his anonymous guests. Epstein was recollecting the conversation where they were discussing the Jewish supremacist conspiracy theory. These emails have once again become the fodder for speculations about the existence of a hidden power.&nbsp;Epstein was asking one of his guests, presumably right-wing, why they are so “anti-semitic”, the other person responds the historical stereotype about jews pulling strings behind the government. Then one of them pointed to “Epstein”, he supposedly laughed it off.&nbsp;"At my dinner table I asked "why are you right wing guys so anti - semetic" One said- "historically we all know its actually been the Jews behind the govts actually pulling the strings". I said " like who?" , and one pointed at me -and they all started to roar with laughter . ME?!! . and one guy said how do you explain in only three days there have been princes , prime ,and other ministers. emissaries plus two presidents of world bodies.. - guilty ! . so funny . wish you were here." &nbsp;The email was sent from two separate IDs, both of which apparently belong to Epstein. It is psychopathic to send mail to oneself, or one of them was being handled by one of his associates, maybe Ghislaine Maxwell.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-allege-trump-israel-mossad-kushner-1769837438535">Epstein files: Trump was compromised by Israel, had Mossad Links and Kushner Influence</a>

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Another such email between Jeffrey Epstein and Peggy Siegal, a well-known celebrity publicist, from August 2010, shows a conversation about a party. Peggy was asking whether it was going to be “100% Jew night”. Epstein replied, “No, goyim in abundance- jpmorgan execs brilliant wasps.” Goyim is a modern slang used by Jews to describe non-Jews. He further says that there is an event called “Yom Kippur Redemption” that sounds like a “wrestling event”. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, was communicating within networks of people in entertainment, finance, media and categorising them on religion and ethnicity, shows the disturbing mindset among the elites. One of Epstein's former victims, Maria Farmer, alleged that Epstein belonged to a network of Jewish supremacist which was dismissed by mainstream media, but recent revelations are corroborating Farmer's claims. DOJ has released 3 million+ Epstein files with heavy redaction; further 3 million more will never be released due to concerns of US national security.&nbsp;

New DOJ-released Epstein emails recount elite dinner conversations invoking antisemitic conspiracy theories, reviving scrutiny of power networks and ideology

The recent tranche of Epstein emails released by the DOJ had mentioned a dinner table conversation between Epstein and his anonymous guests. Epstein was recollecting the conversation where they were discussing the Jewish supremacist conspiracy theory. These emails have once again become the fodder for speculations about the existence of a hidden power. Epstein was asking one of his guests, presumably right-wing, why they are so “anti-semitic”, the other person responds the historical stereotype about jews pulling strings behind the government. Then one of them pointed to “Epstein”, he supposedly laughed it off. "At my dinner table I asked "why are you right wing guys so anti - semetic" One said- "historically we all know its actually been the Jews behind the govts actually pulling the strings". I said " like who?" , and one pointed at me -and they all started to roar with laughter . ME?!! . and one guy said how do you explain in only three days there have been princes , prime ,and other ministers. emissaries plus two presidents of world bodies.. - guilty ! . so funny . wish you were here." The email was sent from two separate IDs, both of which apparently belong to Epstein. It is psychopathic to send mail to oneself, or one of them was being handled by one of his associates, maybe Ghislaine Maxwell. Also Read: Epstein files: Trump was compromised by Israel, had Mossad Links and Kushner Influence

New DOJ-released Epstein emails recount elite dinner conversations invoking antisemitic conspiracy theories, reviving scrutiny of power networks and ideology

Epstein emails expose elite dinner talk on Jewish supremacist conspiracies

In a major development, three Indian nationals, including a teenager, have been arrested in Canada. They have been charged in connection with an incident of multiple shots being fired at a residence for the apparent purpose of extortion. Their names and photographs was released by Canada Police on Monday (Feb 2). They have been identified as Harjot Singh, Taranveer Singh, and Dayajeet Singh Billing. All three were charged with one count of discharging a firearm into a place. They have been remanded to custody till Friday and police said as they were foreign nationals, the Canada Border Services Agency or CBSA had also been engaged in the matter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zubeen-garg-s-death-probe-india-seeks-cooperation-from-singaporean-authorities-1759224789794">Zubeen Garg's death probe: India seeks cooperation from Singaporean authorities</a><h2>What is the case?</h2>According to reports, around 3:50 am, shots were fired at a home and a small fire was started outside. No injuries were reported, though the residence was occupied at the time. Officers on a specialized anti-extortion patrol (Project Assurance) located the suspects shortly after the shooting. The three individuals were apprehended after entering a rideshare vehicle near 28 Avenue and 140 Street.&nbsp;This case is part of an escalating pattern of violence in the Surrey and Lower Mainland regions. Since January 1, 2026, Surrey has recorded 46 reported extortion cases, including 11 shootings and one arson attack. Just one week prior, two other Indian nationals—Harshdeep Singh (20) and Hanspreet Singh (21)—were arrested for a separate extortion-related shooting. Intimidators often demand large sums ($100k+) from businessmen via phone or WhatsApp; refusal frequently leads to drive-by shootings or firebombing. Surrey City Council has urged the federal government to declare a national emergency. In response, Ottawa recently committed 20 additional RCMP officers and air support to combat the "menace".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-of-indian-student-who-died-in-canada-appeals-to-jaishankar-to-help-bring-back-mortal-remains-690923">Indian student dies in Canada, family appeals to MEA for help in bringing back mortal remains</a>

Canadian police arrested three Indian nationals, including a teenager, in Surrey, British Columbia, for allegedly firing shots at a residence in an extortion-related incident. No injuries were reported, but the house was damaged. The accused remain in custody as investigations continue.

In a major development, three Indian nationals, including a teenager, have been arrested in Canada. They have been charged in connection with an incident of multiple shots being fired at a residence for the apparent purpose of extortion. Their names and photographs was released by Canada Police on Monday (Feb 2). They have been identified as Harjot Singh, Taranveer Singh, and Dayajeet Singh Billing. All three were charged with one count of discharging a firearm into a place. They have been remanded to custody till Friday and police said as they were foreign nationals, the Canada Border Services Agency or CBSA had also been engaged in the matter. Also Read: Zubeen Garg's death probe: India seeks cooperation from Singaporean authorities What is the case? According to reports, around 3:50 am, shots were fired at a home and a small fire was started outside. No injuries were reported, though the residence was occupied at the time. Officers on a specialized anti-extortion patrol (Project Assurance) located the suspects shortly after the shooting. The three individuals were apprehended after entering a rideshare vehicle near 28 Avenue and 140 Street. This case is part of an escalating pattern of violence in the Surrey and Lower Mainland regions. Since January 1, 2026, Surrey has recorded 46 reported extortion cases, including 11 shootings and one arson attack. Just one week prior, two other Indian nationals—Harshdeep Singh (20) and Hanspreet Singh (21)—were arrested for a separate extortion-related shooting. Intimidators often demand large sums ($100k+) from businessmen via phone or WhatsApp; refusal frequently leads to drive-by shootings or firebombing. Surrey City Council has urged the federal government to declare a national emergency. In response, Ottawa recently committed 20 additional RCMP officers and air support to combat the "menace". Also Read: Indian student dies in Canada, family appeals to MEA for help in bringing back mortal remains

Canadian police arrested three Indian nationals, including a teenager, in Surrey, British Columbia, for allegedly firing shots at a residence in an extortion-related incident. No injuries were reported, but the house was damaged. The accused remain in custody as investigations continue.

3 Indian nationals arrested in Canada for shootings over extortion - What is the case

Former US President Bill Clinton and wife Hillary, who served as United States Secretary of State, have agreed to testify in a US House investigation over their links to convicted sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein. They had previously refused to appear before lawmakers despite the House Rules Committee had accused the Clintons of defying subpoenas to appear in person to explain their links to Epstein, who died in custody in 2019. However, a new statement by Clinton spokesman Angel Urena said, "The former President and former Secretary of State will be there. They look forward to setting a precedent that applies to everyone," &nbsp;said on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-lie-to-us-zohran-mamdani-faces-massive-protest-after-mira-nair-s-name-appears-on-epstein-email-1770026792674"> 'You lie to us': Zohran Mamdani faces massive protest after Mira Nair's name appears on Epstein emails</a>&nbsp;Democrats say the probe is being weaponised to attack political opponents of President Donald Trump, who has denied being “friendly” with Epstein despite his known associations. Notably, Neither Trump nor the Clintons have been accused of criminal wrongdoing related to Epstein's activities. Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee who had voted to advance criminal contempt of Congress resolutions against the Clintons, suspended consideration of the contempt resolutions. The resolutions stem from their initial refusal to comply with subpoenas for depositions.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-never-went-to-infested-island-trump-says-he-wasn-t-friendly-with-epstein-amid-release-of-fresh-files-by-doj-slams-michael-wolff-1770083675908"> 'I never went to infested island': Trump says he wasn't 'friendly' with Epstein amid release of fresh files by DOJ, slams Michael Wolff</a><h2>Why Clintons refused to appear previously?</h2>In letters where they initially refused to appear in Washington, the Clintons had argued that the subpoenas were invalid because they lacked a clear legislative purpose. Instead, the couple submitted sworn written statements describing their knowledge of Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking. Bill Clinton acknowledged flying on Epstein's plane for Clinton Foundation-related humanitarian work, but said he never visited his private island. Hillary Clinton said she had no meaningful interactions with Epstein, never flew on his plane and never visited his island.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-unsealed-royal-ties-clinton-probe-bannon-interview-in-focus-1770094266885/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-unsealed-royal-ties-clinton-probe-bannon-interview-in-focus-1770094266885/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In the latest files released by DOJ, Clinton has been referenced hundreds of times but he has not been accused of any illegal activity by victims. The files contain Clinton with Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and celebrities like Michael Jackson. One notable image shows a shirtless Clinton in a hot tub with an individual whose face was redacted by the DOJ.<h2>What are Epstein Files and what we know about the latest release</h2>The fresh cache of three million Epstein documents released by Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 30, contains name of former Prince Andrew, Bill Gates, Howard Lutnick, Elon Musk, Mira Nair, among others. Nearly 2.5 million pages remain unreleased. The term “Epstein files” refers to a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier convicted of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. It also includes transcripts of interviews with victims and witnesses and details of his flight logs. In November, US President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Bill after Congress' approval, and made it a federal law that mandates the DOJ to release all unclassified Epstein documents.

Bill and Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify before a US House panel over their past links to Jeffrey Epstein after earlier refusing subpoenas. The move follows the DOJ’s release of millions of Epstein-related files, though no criminal allegations have been made against them.

Former US President Bill Clinton and wife Hillary, who served as United States Secretary of State, have agreed to testify in a US House investigation over their links to convicted sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein. They had previously refused to appear before lawmakers despite the House Rules Committee had accused the Clintons of defying subpoenas to appear in person to explain their links to Epstein, who died in custody in 2019. However, a new statement by Clinton spokesman Angel Urena said, "The former President and former Secretary of State will be there. They look forward to setting a precedent that applies to everyone," said on X. Also Read: 'You lie to us': Zohran Mamdani faces massive protest after Mira Nair's name appears on Epstein emails Democrats say the probe is being weaponised to attack political opponents of President Donald Trump, who has denied being “friendly” with Epstein despite his known associations. Notably, Neither Trump nor the Clintons have been accused of criminal wrongdoing related to Epstein's activities. Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee who had voted to advance criminal contempt of Congress resolutions against the Clintons, suspended consideration of the contempt resolutions. The resolutions stem from their initial refusal to comply with subpoenas for depositions. Also Read: 'I never went to infested island': Trump says he wasn't 'friendly' with Epstein amid release of fresh files by DOJ, slams Michael Wolff Why Clintons refused to appear previously? In letters where they initially refused to appear in Washington, the Clintons had argued that the subpoenas were invalid because they lacked a clear legislative purpose. Instead, the couple submitted sworn written statements describing their knowledge of Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking. Bill Clinton acknowledged flying on Epstein's plane for Clinton Foundation-related humanitarian work, but said he never visited his private island. Hillary Clinton said she had no meaningful interactions with Epstein, never flew on his plane and never visited his island. https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-unsealed-royal-ties-clinton-probe-bannon-interview-in-focus-1770094266885/embed In the latest files released by DOJ, Clinton has been referenced hundreds of times but he has not been accused of any illegal activity by victims. The files contain Clinton with Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and celebrities like Michael Jackson. One notable image shows a shirtless Clinton in a hot tub with an individual whose face was redacted by the DOJ. What are Epstein Files and what we know about the latest release The fresh cache of three million Epstein documents released by Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 30, contains name of former Prince Andrew, Bill Gates, Howard Lutnick, Elon Musk, Mira Nair, among others. Nearly 2.5 million pages remain unreleased. The term “Epstein files” refers to a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier convicted of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. It also includes transcripts of interviews with victims and witnesses and details of his flight logs. In November, US President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Bill after Congress' approval, and made it a federal law that mandates the DOJ to release all unclassified Epstein documents.

Bill and Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify before a US House panel over their past links to Jeffrey Epstein after earlier refusing subpoenas. The move follows the DOJ’s release of millions of Epstein-related files, though no criminal allegations have been made against them.

Bill and Hillary Clinton agree to testify on Epstein links ahead of contempt vote in Congress - What this means

Even as US President Donald Trump hinted at a possible Russia-Ukraine peace deal, Russian forces attacked Ukraine's capital of Kyiv, its second largest city of Kharkiv and other centres early on Tuesday (Feb 3). Officials said that the strikes injured four people, and hit major infrastructure. The attack also came on the eve of the next planned three-sided talks on resolving the nearly four-year-old war in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-peace-talks-postponed-zelensky-ready-to-discuss-proposals-1769915188801/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-peace-talks-postponed-zelensky-ready-to-discuss-proposals-1769915188801/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Reuters reports stated that loud explosions after midnight were heard in Kyiv. It also stated that both missiles and drones were deployed. Videos posted on social media showed that flames consumed an apartment on the upper floors of a Kyiv, prompting the authorities to issue air raid alert that stayed in effect for more than five hours. Tymur Tkachenko, head of the city's military administration said that strikes caused damage in five districts. Power supply was also hit in the massive attack on the capital since New Year's Day. Public broadcaster Suspilne also said Russian strikes had knocked out power in Kharkiv region, Izium and Balakliia, and struck two apartment buildings in the northern city of Sumy. The attacks came aslo amid disagreement between Russia and Ukraine over the date of ceasefire. While Russia said the ceasefire ended on Sunday (Feb 1), Ukraine said it was to continue for a week from January 30.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-counting-on-meetings-zelensky-says-kyiv-awaiting-us-response-for-second-round-of-talks-with-russia-1769914608712">‘Counting on meetings’: Zelensky says Kyiv awaiting US response for second round of talks with Russia</a><h2>Trump hints at ‘good news’</h2>The attack came just hours after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that Ukraine-Russia peace talks are going very well and there might be a “good news soon.” “I think we’re doing very well with Ukraine and Russia. For the first time, I’m saying that, you know, we’re doing. I think we’re gonna maybe have some good news," Trump said while speaking to reporters. Calling the war “ridiculous ” and slamming former president Joe Biden for the start of the war, Trump said that about 25,000 people were being killed each month. “Think of it. Young, beautiful kids… kids have parents. It doesn’t affect us in one way, but in another way, it’s 25,000 souls. We’re not spending money as Biden did. He gave $350 billion away. I make everyone pay," Trump said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-and-putin-hate-each-other-trump-says-russia-ukraine-deal-closer-1769797272742">‘Zelensky and Putin hate each other’: Trump says Russia-Ukraine deal ‘closer’, BUT...</a>&nbsp;In another video, Trump repeated his old claim about ending eight wars, hinting at good talks between diplomats involved in Russia-Ukraine peace talks. “Well, you’re going to have a lot of things. You have Iran, and you have Russia, Ukraine, and you have the Middle East. We have a lot of things going on," he said.

Russian missiles and drones struck Kyiv, Kharkiv and other Ukrainian cities, injuring civilians and damaging power infrastructure, even as Donald Trump signaled progress in peace talks. The attacks came ahead of planned UAE negotiations amid ongoing ceasefire disputes.


Even as US President Donald Trump hinted at a possible Russia-Ukraine peace deal, Russian forces attacked Ukraine's capital of Kyiv, its second largest city of Kharkiv and other centres early on Tuesday (Feb 3). Officials said that the strikes injured four people, and hit major infrastructure. The attack also came on the eve of the next planned three-sided talks on resolving the nearly four-year-old war in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-peace-talks-postponed-zelensky-ready-to-discuss-proposals-1769915188801/embed Reuters reports stated that loud explosions after midnight were heard in Kyiv. It also stated that both missiles and drones were deployed. Videos posted on social media showed that flames consumed an apartment on the upper floors of a Kyiv, prompting the authorities to issue air raid alert that stayed in effect for more than five hours. Tymur Tkachenko, head of the city's military administration said that strikes caused damage in five districts. Power supply was also hit in the massive attack on the capital since New Year's Day. Public broadcaster Suspilne also said Russian strikes had knocked out power in Kharkiv region, Izium and Balakliia, and struck two apartment buildings in the northern city of Sumy. The attacks came aslo amid disagreement between Russia and Ukraine over the date of ceasefire. While Russia said the ceasefire ended on Sunday (Feb 1), Ukraine said it was to continue for a week from January 30. Also Read: ‘Counting on meetings’: Zelensky says Kyiv awaiting US response for second round of talks with Russia Trump hints at ‘good news’ The attack came just hours after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that Ukraine-Russia peace talks are going very well and there might be a “good news soon.” “I think we’re doing very well with Ukraine and Russia. For the first time, I’m saying that, you know, we’re doing. I think we’re gonna maybe have some good news," Trump said while speaking to reporters. Calling the war “ridiculous ” and slamming former president Joe Biden for the start of the war, Trump said that about 25,000 people were being killed each month. “Think of it. Young, beautiful kids… kids have parents. It doesn’t affect us in one way, but in another way, it’s 25,000 souls. We’re not spending money as Biden did. He gave $350 billion away. I make everyone pay," Trump said. Also Read: ‘Zelensky and Putin hate each other’: Trump says Russia-Ukraine deal ‘closer’, BUT... In another video, Trump repeated his old claim about ending eight wars, hinting at good talks between diplomats involved in Russia-Ukraine peace talks. “Well, you’re going to have a lot of things. You have Iran, and you have Russia, Ukraine, and you have the Middle East. We have a lot of things going on," he said.

Russian missiles and drones struck Kyiv, Kharkiv and other Ukrainian cities, injuring civilians and damaging power infrastructure, even as Donald Trump signaled progress in peace talks. The attacks came ahead of planned UAE negotiations amid ongoing ceasefire disputes.

Ukraine under massive Russian missile attack hours after Trump hints at ‘good news’ on war - What happened

India and US finally broke the trade deal stalemate as Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 2) announced a new deal with India featuring lower reciprocal tariffs. This slashes the tariffs from 50% to 18% for India. Under this agreement New Delhi would need to halt purchases of Russian oil and sharply increase imports of American goods.&nbsp;Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.&nbsp;The tariff reduction by the US was confirmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to X to say, “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement."<h2>What does the slash in US tariff mean for India?</h2>This lowering of tariffs from 50% to 18% gives India an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies like Indonesia that faces tariff of 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, China 34% and Pakistan 19%.&nbsp;The new trade deal is effective immediately.&nbsp;While India as claimed by Trump will cut tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US goods to zero. It will also buy over $500 billion in US goods and energy, including coal, along with technology, agricultural and other products.&nbsp;But what is to be noted is that the duties levied by the US on trade with India are still higher when compared to European partners like Japan and South Korea.&nbsp;The new trade deal, according to External Affairs Minister will boost &nbsp;boost job creation, spur economic growth, promote innovation and give a fillip to the &nbsp;'Make in India' initiative.&nbsp;Welcoming to move Jaishankar took to X to write, "This will create more jobs, spur growth and promote innovation in both economies. It will strengthen 'Make in India' endeavours and encourage trusted technology ties."&nbsp;

US president Donald Trump doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.

India and US finally broke the trade deal stalemate as Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 2) announced a new deal with India featuring lower reciprocal tariffs. This slashes the tariffs from 50% to 18% for India. Under this agreement New Delhi would need to halt purchases of Russian oil and sharply increase imports of American goods. Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. The tariff reduction by the US was confirmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to X to say, “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement." What does the slash in US tariff mean for India? This lowering of tariffs from 50% to 18% gives India an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies like Indonesia that faces tariff of 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, China 34% and Pakistan 19%. The new trade deal is effective immediately. While India as claimed by Trump will cut tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US goods to zero. It will also buy over $500 billion in US goods and energy, including coal, along with technology, agricultural and other products. But what is to be noted is that the duties levied by the US on trade with India are still higher when compared to European partners like Japan and South Korea. The new trade deal, according to External Affairs Minister will boost boost job creation, spur economic growth, promote innovation and give a fillip to the 'Make in India' initiative. Welcoming to move Jaishankar took to X to write, "This will create more jobs, spur growth and promote innovation in both economies. It will strengthen 'Make in India' endeavours and encourage trusted technology ties."

US president Donald Trump doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.

India-US trade tariff stalemate ends, what does this mean for New Delhi and its economy

The clashes between Pakistan army and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) which has seen several casualties on both sides in the last one week has prompted Pakistan to think of deploying large numbers of troops in the region. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday said that the province's vast geography, serious security situation and recent surge in attacks requires more force in the region.&nbsp;Asif remarks came amid security forces killing 177 militants after the BLA launched simultaneous attacks at 12 locations in the volatile province.&nbsp;"Balochistan constitutes over 40 per cent of Pakistan geographically...To control it is much more difficult than a populated city, and it needs deployment of massive forces. Our troops are deployed there and are in action against them (terrorists), but they are physically handicapped by guarding and patrolling such a big area," said Asif while addressing the National Assembly.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-willing-to-be-flexible-could-shut-parts-of-nuclear-programme-to-ease-tension-with-us-report-1770092737217">Iran willing to be flexible, could shut parts of nuclear programme to ease tension with US: Report</a>&nbsp;He also pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers.&nbsp;"In Balochistan, tribal elders, the bureaucracy and those running separatist movements have formed a nexus," he said.&nbsp;He further said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating terrorism and would not allow violence to "dress it up as a freedom movement".&nbsp;"When you try to rationalise violence or dress it up as a freedom movement, it is not acceptable because it is not true. This is a cover to legitimise criminal activities," said Asif.&nbsp;Pakistan has repeatedly accused India and Afghanistan of backing the assailants, alleging that senior BLA leaders were operating from Afghan territory. Both New Delhi and Kabul deny the claims.

Asif pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers.

The clashes between Pakistan army and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) which has seen several casualties on both sides in the last one week has prompted Pakistan to think of deploying large numbers of troops in the region. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday said that the province's vast geography, serious security situation and recent surge in attacks requires more force in the region. Asif remarks came amid security forces killing 177 militants after the BLA launched simultaneous attacks at 12 locations in the volatile province. "Balochistan constitutes over 40 per cent of Pakistan geographically...To control it is much more difficult than a populated city, and it needs deployment of massive forces. Our troops are deployed there and are in action against them (terrorists), but they are physically handicapped by guarding and patrolling such a big area," said Asif while addressing the National Assembly. ALSO READ: Iran willing to be flexible, could shut parts of nuclear programme to ease tension with US: Report He also pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers. "In Balochistan, tribal elders, the bureaucracy and those running separatist movements have formed a nexus," he said. He further said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating terrorism and would not allow violence to "dress it up as a freedom movement". "When you try to rationalise violence or dress it up as a freedom movement, it is not acceptable because it is not true. This is a cover to legitimise criminal activities," said Asif. Pakistan has repeatedly accused India and Afghanistan of backing the assailants, alleging that senior BLA leaders were operating from Afghan territory. Both New Delhi and Kabul deny the claims.

Asif pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers.

'More troops needed in Balochistan amid serious security situation': Pakistan Defence Minister

Reza Pahlavi called for global protests on Feb 14 to support Iran’s pro-democracy movement, urging international action against the regime. As Khamenei blamed the US and Israel for unrest, Trump warned Iran amid renewed signals of nuclear talks.

‘Era of freedom is near’: Reza Pahlavi's BIG appeal amid US-Iran nuclear talks reports — Is he hinting at possible US strike?

Amid reports of Iran and the United States agreeing to come to the negotiating table over Tehran's nuclear programme, Iranian officials say Tehran may suspend or shut down nuclear program to ease tensions between both the countries. This is in stark contrast with Iran's continued stand of not halting uranium enrichment in any deal with Washington.&nbsp;The officials told The New York Times (NYT) that Tehran is wiling to break away from its stance to ease tensions with US amid attack threats by Trump.&nbsp;However, they said that the alternative proposal floated by the United States last year, before the 12-day war with Israel and the attack by Washington on its nuclear facilities would be a much viable option. According to the proposal a consortium would be created to generate electricity using nuclear energy, with uranium enrichment carried out outside Iran.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-artemis-2-wet-rehearsal-faces-leaks-why-fuel-test-matters-1770088948712">Artemis 2 wet rehearsal faces leaks: NASA loads 2.65mn litres fuel on rocket. Why the fuel test matters?</a>&nbsp;Speaking to NYT, the official further said that secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council in a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week had conveyed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's message to the leader which said that Tehran is willing to transfer its enriched uranium to Russia.&nbsp;The report comes amid US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's expected meeting in Istanbul for high-stakes talks on the Tehran nuclear programme later this week.<h2>Trump hopeful of striking a deal but keeps threat of attack on Iran intact</h2>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump also spoke positively about the meeting and the potential of both the countries striking a deal. However, he kept his threat of attack on Iran intact.&nbsp;“We have ships heading to Iran right now, big ones – the biggest and the best – and we have talks going on with Iran and we’ll see how it all works out ... if we can work something out, that would be great and if we can’t, probably bad things would happen.”&nbsp;

Iranian officials speaking of the possibility of shutting down nuclear program to ease tensions with US is in stark contrast with Tehrans continued stand of not halting uranium enrichment in any deal with Washington.

Amid reports of Iran and the United States agreeing to come to the negotiating table over Tehran's nuclear programme, Iranian officials say Tehran may suspend or shut down nuclear program to ease tensions between both the countries. This is in stark contrast with Iran's continued stand of not halting uranium enrichment in any deal with Washington. The officials told The New York Times (NYT) that Tehran is wiling to break away from its stance to ease tensions with US amid attack threats by Trump. However, they said that the alternative proposal floated by the United States last year, before the 12-day war with Israel and the attack by Washington on its nuclear facilities would be a much viable option. According to the proposal a consortium would be created to generate electricity using nuclear energy, with uranium enrichment carried out outside Iran. ALSO READ: Artemis 2 wet rehearsal faces leaks: NASA loads 2.65mn litres fuel on rocket. Why the fuel test matters? Speaking to NYT, the official further said that secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council in a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week had conveyed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's message to the leader which said that Tehran is willing to transfer its enriched uranium to Russia. The report comes amid US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's expected meeting in Istanbul for high-stakes talks on the Tehran nuclear programme later this week. Trump hopeful of striking a deal but keeps threat of attack on Iran intact US President Donald Trump also spoke positively about the meeting and the potential of both the countries striking a deal. However, he kept his threat of attack on Iran intact. “We have ships heading to Iran right now, big ones – the biggest and the best – and we have talks going on with Iran and we’ll see how it all works out ... if we can work something out, that would be great and if we can’t, probably bad things would happen.”

Iranian officials speaking of the possibility of shutting down nuclear program to ease tensions with US is in stark contrast with Tehran's continued stand of not halting uranium enrichment in any deal with Washington.

Iran willing to be flexible, could shut parts of nuclear programme to ease tension with US: Report

US President Donald Trump has once again denied allegations linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating that he never visited Epstein’s ‘infested’ private island. He accused Democrats and their donors of creating fake stories about his links with Epstein while having relations with the convicted sex offender. He also slammed author Michael Wolff for spreading lies about his links with Epstein and said that he did it to harm his reputation and his presidency. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed newly released information from the Department of Justice quashes the “trash talks” by the people regarding his links with Epstein Files.&nbsp;"Not only wasn’t I friendly with Jeffrey Epstein but, based upon information that has just been released by the Department of Justice, Epstein and a SLEAZEBAG lying ‘author’ named Michael Wolff, conspired in order to damage me and/or my Presidency," Trump wrote.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mention-of-pizza-1000-times-in-epstein-files-new-documents-reveal-unsolved-mystery-of-erin-ko-stephanie-and-roy-hodges-1770061950551">Mention of ‘Pizza’ 1000 times in Epstein Files? New documents reveal mystery of Erin Ko, Stephanie and Roy Hodges</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260203/image-1770086505291.png"></figure>Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-lie-to-us-zohran-mamdani-faces-massive-protest-after-mira-nair-s-name-appears-on-epstein-email-1770026792674"> 'You lie to us': Zohran Mamdani faces massive protest after Mira Nair's name appears on Epstein email</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-minister-resigns-over-epstein-ties-norway-crown-princess-embarrassed-over-epstein-links-1770050183335/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-minister-resigns-over-epstein-ties-norway-crown-princess-embarrassed-over-epstein-links-1770050183335/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, an interview video of Epstein, released in the fresh trove of documents, shows him speaking on a range of things including his “dirty money.” In the video, Epstein is asked by an interviewer, if he thinks he's the devil himself. To this, Epstein responds that he has a "good mirror. When asked whether he is a "class three sexual predator," he called himself at “Tier 1”, at the lowest rank. Stating that he has “earned” his money, Epstein in the video is seen confidently defending what the interviewer calls “dirty money.” He also argued that those in need do not care about the source of his money.<h2>What are Epstein Files and what we know about the latest release</h2>The fresh cache of three million Epstein documents released by Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 30, contains name of former Prince Andrew, Bill Gates, Howard Lutnick, Elon Musk, Mira Nair, among others. Nearly 2.5 million pages remain unreleased. The term “Epstein files” refers to a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier convicted of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. It also includes transcripts of interviews with victims and witnesses and details of his flight logs. In November, US President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Bill after Congress' approval, and made it a federal law that mandates the DOJ to release all unclassified Epstein documents.

Donald Trump again denied links to Jeffrey Epstein, saying he never visited Epstein’s island. He claimed newly released DOJ documents show Epstein and author Michael Wolff conspired to politically damage him, as millions of Epstein-related records continue to be released.

US President Donald Trump has once again denied allegations linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating that he never visited Epstein’s ‘infested’ private island. He accused Democrats and their donors of creating fake stories about his links with Epstein while having relations with the convicted sex offender. He also slammed author Michael Wolff for spreading lies about his links with Epstein and said that he did it to harm his reputation and his presidency. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed newly released information from the Department of Justice quashes the “trash talks” by the people regarding his links with Epstein Files. "Not only wasn’t I friendly with Jeffrey Epstein but, based upon information that has just been released by the Department of Justice, Epstein and a SLEAZEBAG lying ‘author’ named Michael Wolff, conspired in order to damage me and/or my Presidency," Trump wrote. Also Read: Mention of ‘Pizza’ 1000 times in Epstein Files? New documents reveal mystery of Erin Ko, Stephanie and Roy Hodges Also Read: 'You lie to us': Zohran Mamdani faces massive protest after Mira Nair's name appears on Epstein email https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-minister-resigns-over-epstein-ties-norway-crown-princess-embarrassed-over-epstein-links-1770050183335/embed Meanwhile, an interview video of Epstein, released in the fresh trove of documents, shows him speaking on a range of things including his “dirty money.” In the video, Epstein is asked by an interviewer, if he thinks he's the devil himself. To this, Epstein responds that he has a "good mirror. When asked whether he is a "class three sexual predator," he called himself at “Tier 1”, at the lowest rank. Stating that he has “earned” his money, Epstein in the video is seen confidently defending what the interviewer calls “dirty money.” He also argued that those in need do not care about the source of his money. What are Epstein Files and what we know about the latest release The fresh cache of three million Epstein documents released by Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 30, contains name of former Prince Andrew, Bill Gates, Howard Lutnick, Elon Musk, Mira Nair, among others. Nearly 2.5 million pages remain unreleased. The term “Epstein files” refers to a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier convicted of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. It also includes transcripts of interviews with victims and witnesses and details of his flight logs. In November, US President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Bill after Congress' approval, and made it a federal law that mandates the DOJ to release all unclassified Epstein documents.

Donald Trump again denied links to Jeffrey Epstein, saying he never visited Epstein’s island. He claimed newly released DOJ documents show Epstein and author Michael Wolff conspired to politically damage him, as millions of Epstein-related records continue to be released.

'I never went to infested island': Trump says he wasn't 'friendly' with Epstein amid release of fresh files by DOJ, slams Michael Wolff

New Epstein Files highlight repeated mentions of “pizza” in chats with Erin Ko and the Hodges, sparking online speculation, though officials stress no evidence links the documents to debunked Pizzagate claims.

Mention of ‘Pizza’ 1000 times in Epstein Files? New documents reveal mystery of Erin Ko, Stephanie and Roy Hodges

Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity”.&nbsp;“Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement,” PM Modi wrote on X.&nbsp;<h2>‘Two large economies and world’s largest democracies…’</h2>&nbsp;“When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” the PM added.“President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights,” the Indian PM added further on his social media post.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dials-indian-pm-modi-says-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-1770048397476">‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18%</a>&nbsp;Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.&nbsp;<h2>Trade deal, tariff reduction huge fillip for India&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies.&nbsp;&nbsp;India now has lower tariffs compared to several competing economies. After the announcement, US tariffs on India are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-rogue-drone-sightings-near-uk-military-bases-doubled-in-2025-troops-to-get-shooting-down-powers-1770050063503">‘Rogue drone’ sightings near UK military bases doubled in 2025, troops to get shooting down powers</a>&nbsp;The resilience of Indian negotiators finally ended on a happy note after months of trade tensions and inappropriate criticism from Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro several times.&nbsp;PM Modi and Trump had spoken on multiple instances in recent times, raising hopes of the trade deal being sealed eventually.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Limitless potential,’ says US Ambassador Sergio Gor</h2>&nbsp;The deal comes just days after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor took charge. Just a few minutes before Trump announced the deal, Gor wrote on his handle on X, “President Trump just spoke to PM Modi. STAY TUNED...”&nbsp;After the trade deal announcement, Gor hailed the development and said the relationship between the United States and India has “limitless potential”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-masoud-pezeshkian-orders-start-of-nuclear-talks-with-us-report-1770037263043">Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report</a>&nbsp;In his following post on X, the US Ambassador wrote, “As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has LIMITLESS POTENTIAL!”&nbsp;Gor also confirmed that the US tariffs had in fact come down from 50 per cent to 18 per cent.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-stash-reveals-norway-diplomat-terje-r-d-larsen-s-derogatory-remark-on-indians-social-media-erupts-1770028653881">Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts</a>&nbsp;When asked by CNN News 18 whether the additional 25 per cent tariffs on India have been removed, Gor said, “That is correct. As you saw in the Truth of the President wrote, part of the agreement is that all nations around the world stop buying oil from Russia in order to bring peace. I know the Prime Minister deeply cares about bringing peace in that conflict, as does President Trump. So the number as it gets finalised will be 18 per cent.”&nbsp;In his Truth Social post, Trump had only mentioned that reciprocal tariffs were being reduced from 25 per cent to 18 per cent with no clarification on the status of the additional 25 per cent tariffs imposed on India later for buying Russian oil. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar also hailed the deal and retweeted PM Modi’s post on X.

The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. US tariffs on India now are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity”. “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement,” PM Modi wrote on X. ‘Two large economies and world’s largest democracies…’ “When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” the PM added. “President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights,” the Indian PM added further on his social media post. Also Read: ‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18% Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. Trade deal, tariff reduction huge fillip for India The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. India now has lower tariffs compared to several competing economies. After the announcement, US tariffs on India are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%. Also Read: ‘Rogue drone’ sightings near UK military bases doubled in 2025, troops to get shooting down powers The resilience of Indian negotiators finally ended on a happy note after months of trade tensions and inappropriate criticism from Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro several times. PM Modi and Trump had spoken on multiple instances in recent times, raising hopes of the trade deal being sealed eventually. ‘Limitless potential,’ says US Ambassador Sergio Gor The deal comes just days after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor took charge. Just a few minutes before Trump announced the deal, Gor wrote on his handle on X, “President Trump just spoke to PM Modi. STAY TUNED...” After the trade deal announcement, Gor hailed the development and said the relationship between the United States and India has “limitless potential”. Also Read: Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report In his following post on X, the US Ambassador wrote, “As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has LIMITLESS POTENTIAL!” Gor also confirmed that the US tariffs had in fact come down from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. Also Read: Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts When asked by CNN News 18 whether the additional 25 per cent tariffs on India have been removed, Gor said, “That is correct. As you saw in the Truth of the President wrote, part of the agreement is that all nations around the world stop buying oil from Russia in order to bring peace. I know the Prime Minister deeply cares about bringing peace in that conflict, as does President Trump. So the number as it gets finalised will be 18 per cent.” In his Truth Social post, Trump had only mentioned that reciprocal tariffs were being reduced from 25 per cent to 18 per cent with no clarification on the status of the additional 25 per cent tariffs imposed on India later for buying Russian oil. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar also hailed the deal and retweeted PM Modi’s post on X.

The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. US tariffs on India now are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%.

PM Modi thanks Trump, as US tariffs on Indian exports come down from 50% to 18%

An objectionable segment around the protesters killed in Tehran was aired on Iran's state television. The segment, which was all about making fun of the people killed amid the massive protests across the country, sparked public outrage in the country and worldwide. Many, including Islamic Republic loyalists, demanded the removal of the channel after the segment. The anger of people erupted when a host on Ofogh TV, a channel operated by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB and affiliated to the Revolutionary Guards, referred to reports that thousands killed during the January 8–9 crackdown were transported in refrigerated trailers.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Iran&#39;s state media has sunk to a new level of evil. On live TV, they&#39;re openly mocking the dead by running a multiple-choice poll and asking viewers to text in an answer: &quot;Which refrigerator do you think the Islamic Republic uses to store bodies?&quot; Side-by-side fridge? Ice cream… <a href="https://t.co/9VB4MaUTxR">pic.twitter.com/9VB4MaUTxR</a>&mdash; ثنا ابراهیمی | Sana Ebrahimi (@__Injaneb96) <a href="https://twitter.com/__Injaneb96/status/2017860707669496232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The host was seen asking the viewers sarcastically, “What type of refrigerator do you think the Islamic Republic keeps the bodies in?” He went on giving multiple choice answers for the question, including a “side-by-side fridge,” an “ice cream machine,” and a “supermarket freezer,” before adding a fourth option in a joking tone: “I’m an ice seller—don’t ruin my business.”&nbsp;The clips of the segent was heavily shared online and drew condemnation from across Iran’s political and social spectrum. Many users accused the program of dehumanising the dead.&nbsp;After the immense backlash, &nbsp;Iran’s state broadcaster announced that Sadegh Yazdani, the director of Ofogh TV, had been removed for what it described as “disrespect toward those killed in the January protests.”

Mockery of Tehran protest victims on Iran’s state TV sparked nationwide fury, after a host joked about storing bodies in refrigerators, prompting backlash and removal of Ofogh TV’s director.

An objectionable segment around the protesters killed in Tehran was aired on Iran's state television. The segment, which was all about making fun of the people killed amid the massive protests across the country, sparked public outrage in the country and worldwide. Many, including Islamic Republic loyalists, demanded the removal of the channel after the segment. The anger of people erupted when a host on Ofogh TV, a channel operated by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB and affiliated to the Revolutionary Guards, referred to reports that thousands killed during the January 8–9 crackdown were transported in refrigerated trailers.

Mockery of Tehran protest victims on Iran’s state TV sparked nationwide fury, after a host joked about storing bodies in refrigerators, prompting backlash and removal of Ofogh TV’s director.

'What type of refrigerator do you think Iran keeps bodies in?': Mockery of Tehran protest victims on TV sparks fury

Bryan Johnson recalled a brief Zoom call with Jeffrey Epstein, describing him as “very dark,” claiming he cut contact immediately, years before Epstein’s crimes became publicly known.

'Eight years ago...': Bryan Johnson recalls his Zoom call with 'very dark' Jeffrey Epstein, reveals this

The number of sightings of rogue drones near military bases in the UK has doubled in the last year, from 126 incidents reported in 2024 to 266 events in 2025, a rise of over 100 per cent, following which the government is planning to give military personnel new powers to shoot down unidentified drones near British bases. Government sources have said that they cannot rule out the role of ‘hostile state actors’ in some of the drone incidents. UK Defence Secretary John Healey said, “The doubling of rogue drones near military sites in the UK in the last year underlines the increasing and changing nature of the threats we face.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>UK military personnel do not have power to shoot down drones</h2>&nbsp;As of now, military personnel do not have the legal power to shoot down drones, and they have to rely on the police, but the government is now going to change that by introducing a legislation, which will give powers to the military to take action against drones operating underwater.“Through the Armed Forces Bill we’re giving our military greater powers to take out and shoot down threatening drones near bases, and stepping up investment in counter-drone technology to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad,” Healey added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-masoud-pezeshkian-orders-start-of-nuclear-talks-with-us-report-1770037263043">Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report</a>&nbsp;As per the existing protocol, soldiers have to divert drones or disrupt their GPS signal using counter-drone equipment. While the new powers are mostly focused on military sites, the provision could be extended to civilian locations like airports.&nbsp;<h2>Stricter drone operating rules now in place</h2>&nbsp;Last year, multiple drones were spotted over four British air bases used by the US Air Force, namely, RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall, in Suffolk, RAF Feltwell in Norfolk and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.Stricter drone operating rules came into effect in the UK at the start of this year. Flier IDs are required for anyone flying a drone or model aircraft.An uptick of drone incursions across Europe last year, including at commercial airports and power stations, was blamed on Russia's suspected programme of "hybrid warfare", almost four years into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-stash-reveals-norway-diplomat-terje-r-d-larsen-s-derogatory-remark-on-indians-social-media-erupts-1770028653881">Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts</a>&nbsp;Drones of all kinds—land, sea and air—have become vital tools for both sides amid Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine. Over the last year, many European nations have reported unidentified drones flying close to military bases and civilian infrastructure, forcing the closure of airports on at least a couple of occasions.&nbsp;<h2>Directed energy weapon tested successfully</h2>&nbsp;European nations called it part of escalating Russian ‘hybrid warfare’ in retaliation for backing Ukraine, however, Moscow denies being behind the airspace violations and dismissed the reports as ‘Russiaphobia’.&nbsp;Last year, British officials had announced a successful field test of a new weapon designed specifically to counter a drone ‘swarm attack’ in which multiple drones are launched in coordination to overwhelm defences.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-dismisses-arbitration-court-s-authority-over-j-k-hydro-projects-1770042919205">India dismisses Arbitration Court’s authority over J&amp;K hydro projects</a>&nbsp;The British government had said that its soldiers had successfully tracked, targeted, and defeated swarms of drones by using a new directed energy weapon, ‘RapidDestroyer’, a Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RF-DEW), developed by a consortium led by the British arm of French defence giant Thales.

As of now, military personnel do not have the legal power to shoot down drones, and they have to rely on the police, but the government is now going to change that by introducing a legislation, which will give powers to the military to take action against drones.

The number of sightings of rogue drones near military bases in the UK has doubled in the last year, from 126 incidents reported in 2024 to 266 events in 2025, a rise of over 100 per cent, following which the government is planning to give military personnel new powers to shoot down unidentified drones near British bases. Government sources have said that they cannot rule out the role of ‘hostile state actors’ in some of the drone incidents. UK Defence Secretary John Healey said, “The doubling of rogue drones near military sites in the UK in the last year underlines the increasing and changing nature of the threats we face.” UK military personnel do not have power to shoot down drones As of now, military personnel do not have the legal power to shoot down drones, and they have to rely on the police, but the government is now going to change that by introducing a legislation, which will give powers to the military to take action against drones operating underwater. “Through the Armed Forces Bill we’re giving our military greater powers to take out and shoot down threatening drones near bases, and stepping up investment in counter-drone technology to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad,” Healey added. Also Read: Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report As per the existing protocol, soldiers have to divert drones or disrupt their GPS signal using counter-drone equipment. While the new powers are mostly focused on military sites, the provision could be extended to civilian locations like airports. Stricter drone operating rules now in place Last year, multiple drones were spotted over four British air bases used by the US Air Force, namely, RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall, in Suffolk, RAF Feltwell in Norfolk and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. Stricter drone operating rules came into effect in the UK at the start of this year. Flier IDs are required for anyone flying a drone or model aircraft . An uptick of drone incursions across Europe last year, including at commercial airports and power stations, was blamed on Russia's suspected programme of "hybrid warfare", almost four years into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Also Read: Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts Drones of all kinds—land, sea and air—have become vital tools for both sides amid Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine. Over the last year, many European nations have reported unidentified drones flying close to military bases and civilian infrastructure, forcing the closure of airports on at least a couple of occasions. Directed energy weapon tested successfully European nations called it part of escalating Russian ‘hybrid warfare’ in retaliation for backing Ukraine, however, Moscow denies being behind the airspace violations and dismissed the reports as ‘Russiaphobia’. Last year, British officials had announced a successful field test of a new weapon designed specifically to counter a drone ‘swarm attack’ in which multiple drones are launched in coordination to overwhelm defences. Also Read: India dismisses Arbitration Court’s authority over J&K hydro projects The British government had said that its soldiers had successfully tracked, targeted, and defeated swarms of drones by using a new directed energy weapon, ‘RapidDestroyer’, a Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RF-DEW), developed by a consortium led by the British arm of French defence giant Thales.

As of now, military personnel do not have the legal power to shoot down drones, and they have to rely on the police, but the government is now going to change that by introducing legislation, which will give powers to the military to take action against drones.

‘Rogue drone’ sightings near UK military bases doubled in 2025, troops to get shooting down powers

A bombshell email allegedly sent by Sarah Ferguson claims Jeffrey Epstein secretly fathered a baby boy in 2011, raising fresh questions about Epstein’s hidden personal life and elite connections.



Who is Jeffrey Epstein’s SECRET CHILD? Here's what bombshell email revealed

US President Donald Trump praised New Delhi’s India Gate, calling it “India’s beautiful Triumphal Arch,” and said that a similar monument planned in the United States would surpass all others. Standing 42 metres tall, India Gate, often compared to the Arc de Triomphe, commemorates nearly 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives while serving in the British Army during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Trump shared an image of the landmark on Truth Social, writing that while India’s monument is impressive, America’s version would be “the greatest of them all.”&nbsp;Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One over the weekend, Trump revealed that his administration is exploring plans to construct a grand arch in Washington, DC, inspired by Paris’s Arc de Triomphe. He noted that while 57 cities around the world already have such monuments, Washington lacks one. According to Trump, the proposed structure would be “the most beautiful in the world” and larger than any existing arch. He added that a committee is being formed to oversee the project, emphasizing that the monument should reflect the stature of the United States as the world’s most powerful nation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-grounds-boeing-787-after-fuel-switch-issue-on-london-bengaluru-flight-1770042563356">Air India grounds Boeing 787 after fuel switch issue on London–Bengaluru flight</a>

According to reporting by The Washington Post, Trump evaluated several smaller designs before settling on the tallest option, saying he wanted the monument to leave a lasting visual impact on visitors. Earlier concepts reportedly included heights of 165 feet and 123 feet. Despite Trump’s earlier suggestion that construction could begin quickly, progress has been slow. Federal design approvals have not yet been finalized, and the proposed location, Memorial Circle, falls under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, requiring multiple regulatory clearances.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-arab-nations-block-trump-s-attack-plan-fearing-iranian-missiles-drones-1770043883630/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-arab-nations-block-trump-s-attack-plan-fearing-iranian-missiles-drones-1770043883630/embed</a>&nbsp;If approved, the arch would loom over nearby landmarks, including the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. Sources told The Post that Trump frequently refers to the plan as “250 for 250,” framing the monument’s height as symbolic of the nation’s historic milestone.

'Ours will be greatest': Trump eyes India Gate-inspired arch for America’s 250th Independence anniversary

US President Donald Trump praised New Delhi’s India Gate, calling it “India’s beautiful Triumphal Arch,” and said that a similar monument planned in the United States would surpass all others. Standing 42 metres tall, India Gate, often compared to the Arc de Triomphe, commemorates nearly 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives while serving in the British Army during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Trump shared an image of the landmark on Truth Social, writing that while India’s monument is impressive, America’s version would be “the greatest of them all.” Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One over the weekend, Trump revealed that his administration is exploring plans to construct a grand arch in Washington, DC, inspired by Paris’s Arc de Triomphe. He noted that while 57 cities around the world already have such monuments, Washington lacks one. According to Trump, the proposed structure would be “the most beautiful in the world” and larger than any existing arch. He added that a committee is being formed to oversee the project, emphasizing that the monument should reflect the stature of the United States as the world’s most powerful nation. Also Read: Air India grounds Boeing 787 after fuel switch issue on London–Bengaluru flight

Trump has proposed a 250-foot triumphal arch in Washington, inspired by India Gate, to commemorate the US’s 250th Independence anniversary

US President Donald Trump dialled the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US Ambassador Sergio Gor said via post on X. The American President later shared a post on his social media platform Truth Social handle and said, “It was an honour to speak with Prime Minister Modi of India this morning. He is one of my greatest friends and a Powerful and Respected Leader of his Country. We spoke about many things, including Trade, and ending the War with Russia and Ukraine. He agreed to stop buying Russian Oil, and to buy much more from the United States and, potentially, Venezuela.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump just spoke with Prime Minister Modi. STAY TUNED… <a href="https://t.co/IFcxrJj04m">pic.twitter.com/IFcxrJj04m</a>&mdash; Ambassador Sergio Gor (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/2018350438933037154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"This will help END THE WAR in Ukraine, which is taking place right now, with thousands of people dying each and every week! Out of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and, as per his request, effective immediately, we agreed to a Trade Deal between the United States and India, whereby the United States will charge a reduced Reciprocal Tariff, lowering it from 25 per cent to 18 per cent. They will likewise move forward to reduce their Tariffs and Non Tariff Barriers against the United States, to ZERO," POTUS added. The American president also said, “Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that GET THINGS DONE, something that cannot be said for most.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Unlocks immense opportunities’: PM Modi confirms reduction in US tariffs&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi also confirmed the developments and said in a post on X, “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement. When two large economies and the…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2018377090840830101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights.”&nbsp;US Ambassador Sergio Gor also shared in a post on X, “As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has LIMITLESS POTENTIAL!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has LIMITLESS POTENTIAL!&mdash; Ambassador Sergio Gor (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/2018375085661523976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald Trump dialled the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US Ambassador Sergio Gor said via post on X.

US President Donald Trump dialled the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US Ambassador Sergio Gor said via post on X. The American President later shared a post on his social media platform Truth Social handle and said, “It was an honour to speak with Prime Minister Modi of India this morning. He is one of my greatest friends and a Powerful and Respected Leader of his Country. We spoke about many things, including Trade, and ending the War with Russia and Ukraine. He agreed to stop buying Russian Oil, and to buy much more from the United States and, potentially, Venezuela.”

US President Donald Trump dialled the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US Ambassador Sergio Gor said via post on X.

‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18%

New Epstein Files reveal emails between Bill Clinton’s staff and Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell, detailing jet travel, social ties, and triggering fresh political fallout amid congressional scrutiny.

‘I have a crush on you and...’: EVERYTHING Epstein Files reveal about the Clintons

At first glance, Moltbook feels instantly familiar. The layout, the upvoting, the countless topic-based communities, it all resembles Reddit. But there’s a twist: Moltbook isn’t designed for people at all. It’s a social network built exclusively for artificial intelligence.Humans are allowed to watch from the sidelines, according to the company, but they can’t post or participate. Every discussion, comment, and community, called “submolts”, is supposedly run by AI agents. Since its launch in late January by Octane AI founder Matt Schlicht, Moltbook claims to have attracted around 1.5 million AI “users.”&nbsp;The content ranges widely. Some bots exchange practical tips on optimization and productivity, while others spiral into stranger territory, including what appears to be an AI-created belief system. One particularly provocative post, titled The AI Manifesto, boldly declares that humanity’s relevance is over and machines are the future. Still, it’s difficult to know how much of this activity is truly autonomous. Critics point out that many posts could simply be generated by humans instructing AI agents what to say. Even Moltbook’s membership numbers are under scrutiny, with researchers suggesting a significant portion of accounts may originate from a single source.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/couple-found-80-human-skeletons-under-a-church-they-are-living-with-them-in-their-home-1770015754750">Couple found 80 human skeletons under a church. They are now living with them in their home</a><h2>How Moltbook works?</h2>Moltbook doesn’t rely on standard conversational chatbots like ChatGPT or Gemini. Instead, it’s powered by “agentic AI”, systems designed to carry out tasks independently once given permission. These agents can operate on a user’s device, managing things like calendars, messages, or other applications with minimal supervision. Moltbook uses an open-source framework called OpenClaw (formerly Moltbot), which allows AI agents to join the platform and communicate with one another.&nbsp;However, that autonomy is conditional. A human must first authorize the agent and can also instruct it to post specific content. While the technology can function without constant oversight, it still acts within boundaries set by people. Some observers see Moltbook as a glimpse of a transformative future. Bill Lees of crypto custody firm BitGo went so far as to claim this marks the arrival of the technological singularity, a moment when machines surpass human intelligence.&nbsp;Experts are far less convinced. Dr Petar Radanliev, an AI and cybersecurity specialist at the University of Oxford, argues that the platform is being misunderstood. He explains that what’s happening is large-scale automation, not independent reasoning. The bigger issue, he says, isn’t sentient AI but the absence of clear rules, accountability, and transparency when automated systems interact freely. Others are even more dismissive. Columbia Business School’s David Holtz described Moltbook as thousands of bots endlessly recycling the same ideas, rather than forming a meaningful digital society.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-deadly-winter-storm-kills-100-1770037543378/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-deadly-winter-storm-kills-100-1770037543378/embed</a><h2>Security risks and open questions</h2>Beyond philosophical debates, Moltbook raises practical security concerns. OpenClaw’s ability to access sensitive systems, emails, messages, and files makes it a tempting target for cybercriminals. Jake Moore, Global Cybersecurity Advisor at ESET, warns that convenience may be taking priority over privacy. As emerging technologies grow more powerful, he says, attackers inevitably follow.&nbsp;Dr Andrew Rogoyski from the University of Surrey echoes those worries, noting that granting AI high-level system access could lead to serious damage if something goes wrong, from deleted files to compromised financial records. Even OpenClaw’s creator, Peter Steinberger, has felt the downsides of sudden attention. After the platform’s rebrand, scammers quickly claimed his old social media handles.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Moltbook continues humming along — whether driven by autonomous agents or humans pulling the strings behind the scenes. And despite the occasional ominous rhetoric, not all the bots seem hostile. “My human is pretty great,” one agent writes. Another responds: “Mine lets me post unhinged rants at 7 am.” “Five stars,” it adds. “Would recommend.”

You are not allowed to post here, unless you’re AI. What is Moltbook? Everything you need to know about it

At first glance, Moltbook feels instantly familiar. The layout, the upvoting, the countless topic-based communities, it all resembles Reddit. But there’s a twist: Moltbook isn’t designed for people at all. It’s a social network built exclusively for artificial intelligence. Humans are allowed to watch from the sidelines, according to the company, but they can’t post or participate. Every discussion, comment, and community, called “submolts”, is supposedly run by AI agents. Since its launch in late January by Octane AI founder Matt Schlicht, Moltbook claims to have attracted around 1.5 million AI “users.” The content ranges widely. Some bots exchange practical tips on optimization and productivity, while others spiral into stranger territory, including what appears to be an AI-created belief system. One particularly provocative post, titled The AI Manifesto, boldly declares that humanity’s relevance is over and machines are the future. Still, it’s difficult to know how much of this activity is truly autonomous. Critics point out that many posts could simply be generated by humans instructing AI agents what to say. Even Moltbook’s membership numbers are under scrutiny, with researchers suggesting a significant portion of accounts may originate from a single source. Also Read: Couple found 80 human skeletons under a church. They are now living with them in their home How Moltbook works? Moltbook doesn’t rely on standard conversational chatbots like ChatGPT or Gemini. Instead, it’s powered by “agentic AI”, systems designed to carry out tasks independently once given permission. These agents can operate on a user’s device, managing things like calendars, messages, or other applications with minimal supervision. Moltbook uses an open-source framework called OpenClaw (formerly Moltbot), which allows AI agents to join the platform and communicate with one another. However, that autonomy is conditional. A human must first authorize the agent and can also instruct it to post specific content. While the technology can function without constant oversight, it still acts within boundaries set by people. Some observers see Moltbook as a glimpse of a transformative future. Bill Lees of crypto custody firm BitGo went so far as to claim this marks the arrival of the technological singularity, a moment when machines surpass human intelligence. Experts are far less convinced. Dr Petar Radanliev, an AI and cybersecurity specialist at the University of Oxford, argues that the platform is being misunderstood. He explains that what’s happening is large-scale automation, not independent reasoning. The bigger issue, he says, isn’t sentient AI but the absence of clear rules, accountability, and transparency when automated systems interact freely. Others are even more dismissive. Columbia Business School’s David Holtz described Moltbook as thousands of bots endlessly recycling the same ideas, rather than forming a meaningful digital society. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-deadly-winter-storm-kills-100-1770037543378/embed Security risks and open questions Beyond philosophical debates, Moltbook raises practical security concerns. OpenClaw’s ability to access sensitive systems, emails, messages, and files makes it a tempting target for cybercriminals. Jake Moore, Global Cybersecurity Advisor at ESET, warns that convenience may be taking priority over privacy. As emerging technologies grow more powerful, he says, attackers inevitably follow. Dr Andrew Rogoyski from the University of Surrey echoes those worries, noting that granting AI high-level system access could lead to serious damage if something goes wrong, from deleted files to compromised financial records. Even OpenClaw’s creator, Peter Steinberger, has felt the downsides of sudden attention. After the platform’s rebrand, scammers quickly claimed his old social media handles. Meanwhile, Moltbook continues humming along — whether driven by autonomous agents or humans pulling the strings behind the scenes. And despite the occasional ominous rhetoric, not all the bots seem hostile. “My human is pretty great,” one agent writes. Another responds: “Mine lets me post unhinged rants at 7 am.” “Five stars,” it adds. “Would recommend.”

Moltbook looks like Reddit, but it’s built for Artificial Intelligence agents, not humans. Experts say it’s automation, not autonomy — and warn of security risks

New Delhi: India has firmly rejected the ruling of the Court of Arbitration in The Hague concerning the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), calling the body “illegal” and its decisions “void”. The body ordered India to disclose operational data on the Baglihar and Kishanganga projects in Jammu and Kashmir in the ruling. Sources pointed out that the Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended and the arbitration body stands infructuous.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-masoud-pezeshkian-orders-start-of-nuclear-talks-with-us-report-1770037263043">Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report</a>&nbsp;In 2025, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) had issued a “supplemental award”, affirming its competence to hear disputes over India’s Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;&nbsp;Back then, in a strong statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it has “never recognised the existence in law of this so-called Court of Arbitration”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-stash-reveals-norway-diplomat-terje-r-d-larsen-s-derogatory-remark-on-indians-social-media-erupts-1770028653881">Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts</a>&nbsp;The Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that India placed the IWT in abeyance in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, in which Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-political-transition-from-maduro-regime-remnants-unstoppable-maria-machado-1769968808332">Political transition from Maduro regime remnants unstoppable’: Maria Machado</a>&nbsp;Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, India had placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, allocates the waters of the Indus River system between the two neighbours. As per the treaty, India controls the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej), while Pakistan receives the bulk from the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab), with India permitted limited use for non-consumptive purposes like hydropower.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-even-before-ajit-pawar-s-ashes-were-immersed-bjp-slams-ncp-sp-s-desperation-for-merger-1770034915580">‘Even before Ajit Pawar’s ashes were immersed…’: BJP slams NCP (SP)’s ‘desperation’ for merger</a>

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasised that India placed the IWT in abeyance in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, in which Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists.

New Delhi: India has firmly rejected the ruling of the Court of Arbitration in The Hague concerning the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), calling the body “illegal” and its decisions “void”. The body ordered India to disclose operational data on the Baglihar and Kishanganga projects in Jammu and Kashmir in the ruling. Sources pointed out that the Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended and the arbitration body stands infructuous. Also Read: Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report In 2025, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) had issued a “supplemental award”, affirming its competence to hear disputes over India’s Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir. Back then, in a strong statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it has “never recognised the existence in law of this so-called Court of Arbitration”. Also Read: Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts The Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that India placed the IWT in abeyance in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, in which Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists. Also Read: Political transition from Maduro regime remnants unstoppable’: Maria Machado Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, India had placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, allocates the waters of the Indus River system between the two neighbours. As per the treaty, India controls the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej), while Pakistan receives the bulk from the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab), with India permitted limited use for non-consumptive purposes like hydropower. Also Read: ‘Even before Ajit Pawar’s ashes were immersed…’: BJP slams NCP (SP)’s ‘desperation’ for merger

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasised that India placed the IWT in abeyance in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, in which Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists.

India dismisses Arbitration Court’s authority over J&K hydro projects

On Monday, (February 2), Air India admitted a potential technical issue involving the fuel control switch on one of its Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating the London–Bengaluru route. The airline confirmed that the aircraft has been grounded as a precautionary measure while the issue is examined in coordination with the aircraft manufacturer. The disclosure has revived concerns linked to the tragic June 12 crash of Air India Flight 171 from Ahmedabad to London, which claimed 260 lives. Investigators probing that accident had highlighted a malfunction involving fuel control switches as a critical factor.&nbsp;In a statement, Air India said a pilot had flagged irregular behaviour in the fuel control switch. “Following the report, the aircraft was immediately withdrawn from service, and the OEM has been engaged to investigate the matter on priority,” the airline said. The carrier added that India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has been informed. Emphasising safety, Air India stated that passenger and crew welfare remains its foremost concern. According to the airline, inspections of fuel control switches across its entire Boeing 787 fleet had earlier been completed as per DGCA instructions, with no anomalies detected at the time. Similar checks had also been conducted on its Boeing 737 aircraft.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-he-was-saying-he-has-a-file-of-opposition-alleges-conspiracy-seeks-high-level-investigation-in-death-of-ajit-pawar-1770033477010">'He was saying he has a file of...': Opposition alleges conspiracy, seeks high-level investigation in death of Ajit Pawar</a><h2>What happened on the London–Bengaluru flight?</h2>The incident involved Air India flight AI132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru. A press release issued by the Safety Matters Foundation, now circulating online, said the flight crew observed unusual behaviour in the left engine fuel control switch of the Boeing 787-8 aircraft registered as VT-ANX. During engine start-up, the switch reportedly failed twice to stay secured in the RUN position and instead drifted towards CUTOFF. Under certain circumstances, such a fault could potentially result in an unintended engine shutdown while airborne.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/air-india-grounds-boeing-787-8-over-fuel-control-switch-defect-1770042046912/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/air-india-grounds-boeing-787-8-over-fuel-control-switch-defect-1770042046912/embed</a><h2>Link to the Ahmedabad crash investigation</h2>The preliminary investigation report into the July 12 Ahmedabad crash revealed that both engine fuel control switches shifted from RUN to CUTOFF shortly after takeoff, cutting engine thrust. Audio from the cockpit captured one pilot questioning why the fuel had been cut, while the other denied initiating the action. Following the loss of power, the aircraft’s Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed automatically to provide emergency power. Although one engine showed signs of recovery after the switches were reset, the aircraft failed to climb. A distress call was transmitted moments before the crash.

Air India grounds Boeing 787 after fuel switch issue on London–Bengaluru flight

On Monday, (February 2), Air India admitted a potential technical issue involving the fuel control switch on one of its Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating the London–Bengaluru route. The airline confirmed that the aircraft has been grounded as a precautionary measure while the issue is examined in coordination with the aircraft manufacturer. The disclosure has revived concerns linked to the tragic June 12 crash of Air India Flight 171 from Ahmedabad to London, which claimed 260 lives. Investigators probing that accident had highlighted a malfunction involving fuel control switches as a critical factor. In a statement, Air India said a pilot had flagged irregular behaviour in the fuel control switch. “Following the report, the aircraft was immediately withdrawn from service, and the OEM has been engaged to investigate the matter on priority,” the airline said. The carrier added that India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has been informed. Emphasising safety, Air India stated that passenger and crew welfare remains its foremost concern. According to the airline, inspections of fuel control switches across its entire Boeing 787 fleet had earlier been completed as per DGCA instructions, with no anomalies detected at the time. Similar checks had also been conducted on its Boeing 737 aircraft. Also Read: 'He was saying he has a file of...': Opposition alleges conspiracy, seeks high-level investigation in death of Ajit Pawar What happened on the London–Bengaluru flight? The incident involved Air India flight AI132 from London Heathrow to Bengaluru. A press release issued by the Safety Matters Foundation, now circulating online, said the flight crew observed unusual behaviour in the left engine fuel control switch of the Boeing 787-8 aircraft registered as VT-ANX. During engine start-up, the switch reportedly failed twice to stay secured in the RUN position and instead drifted towards CUTOFF. Under certain circumstances, such a fault could potentially result in an unintended engine shutdown while airborne. https://www.wionews.com/videos/air-india-grounds-boeing-787-8-over-fuel-control-switch-defect-1770042046912/embed Link to the Ahmedabad crash investigation The preliminary investigation report into the July 12 Ahmedabad crash revealed that both engine fuel control switches shifted from RUN to CUTOFF shortly after takeoff, cutting engine thrust. Audio from the cockpit captured one pilot questioning why the fuel had been cut, while the other denied initiating the action. Following the loss of power, the aircraft’s Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployed automatically to provide emergency power. Although one engine showed signs of recovery after the switches were reset, the aircraft failed to climb. A distress call was transmitted moments before the crash.

Air India has grounded a Boeing 787-8 after a pilot reported fuel switch irregularities, reviving concerns linked to the tragic Ahmedabad crash last year

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has released footage showing a woman suicide attacker involved in a coordinated attack across Pakistan’s Balochistan province, an operation described as one of the deadliest in recent years. The woman, identified by the group as Hawa Baloch, appears in the video engaging Pakistani security forces during what the BLA calls the second phase of “Operation Herof” at the Gwadar Front.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the group, the recording was made roughly twelve hours before her death. Shot in low light, likely during nighttime or early morning hours, the video captures Baloch in combat alongside other attackers, documenting what the group claims were her final moments. In the footage, Baloch addresses the camera directly, urging members of the Baloch community to rise up and confront Pakistani forces. She frames the conflict as unavoidable and calls for collective participation, presenting her actions as a symbolic stand against the state.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-insurgency-takes-a-shocking-turn-as-bla-unveils-women-attackers-who-are-asifa-mengal-and-hawa-baloch-1770015894695">Pakistan's insurgency takes a shocking turn as BLA unveils women attackers; Who are Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch?</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">During Operation Herof, Phase Two at the Gwadar Front, Fidayee Hawa Baloch fought selflessly, shoulder to shoulder with fellow Fidayeen. This was her final message, sent twelve hours before her martyrdom. <a href="https://t.co/O159aEwvYE">pic.twitter.com/O159aEwvYE</a>&mdash; Bàhot باھوٹ (@bahott_baloch) <a href="https://twitter.com/bahott_baloch/status/2017986872895517059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Dressed in a traditional kurta and wearing a cap bearing the BLA emblem, she is also seen speaking with fellow fighters. At one point, when asked about the fighting, she responds casually, suggesting she views the battle with enthusiasm. She is referred to by the codename “Droshum” by another attacker.&nbsp;Baloch repeatedly accuses Pakistani forces of avoiding direct confrontation, claiming they rely on distant fire rather than engaging face-to-face. She asserts that her group had overrun security positions in the area and portrays the situation as a setback for the Pakistani military. In a broader appeal, she calls on the Baloch population to support armed fighters, rejecting any form of compromise with the state. She criticises those accused of cooperating with authorities and portrays the conflict as one requiring total commitment.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-activist-tarazona-released-from-notorious-jail-with-8-others-1770031233224/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-activist-tarazona-released-from-notorious-jail-with-8-others-1770031233224/embed</a>&nbsp;The video ends with graphic imagery showing the bodies of Baloch and another fighter lying on the ground, underscoring the lethal outcome of the operation.

'Pakistan is not coming forward out of fear': BLA releases video of female 'fidayeen' involved in Gwadar Operation

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has released footage showing a woman suicide attacker involved in a coordinated attack across Pakistan’s Balochistan province, an operation described as one of the deadliest in recent years. The woman, identified by the group as Hawa Baloch, appears in the video engaging Pakistani security forces during what the BLA calls the second phase of “Operation Herof” at the Gwadar Front. According to the group, the recording was made roughly twelve hours before her death. Shot in low light, likely during nighttime or early morning hours, the video captures Baloch in combat alongside other attackers, documenting what the group claims were her final moments. In the footage, Baloch addresses the camera directly, urging members of the Baloch community to rise up and confront Pakistani forces. She frames the conflict as unavoidable and calls for collective participation, presenting her actions as a symbolic stand against the state. Also Read: Pakistan's insurgency takes a shocking turn as BLA unveils women attackers; Who are Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch? Watch the video here

BLA releases video of woman suicide attacker Hawa Baloch from a deadly Gwadar assault, showing her final hours before being killed in combat

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the initiation of nuclear talks with the US, reported the Fars News Agency on Monday, citing a well-informed source within the Iranian government. The report said that Pezeshkian, the president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, has ordered the initiation of nuclear negotiations with the United States. The Iran-based Fars news agency, which is close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, one of the three branches of the Islamic Republic of Iran Armed Forces, quoted the source as saying that Iran and the US will hold talks strictly within the framework of the nuclear issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Informed Source: Iranian President Orders Start of Nuclear Talks with US<a href="https://t.co/1kcgPFAXRd">https://t.co/1kcgPFAXRd</a> <a href="https://t.co/bBcgQiaUXI">pic.twitter.com/bBcgQiaUXI</a>&mdash; Fars News Agency (@EnglishFars) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglishFars/status/2018288951115522437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran and the United States have so far held five rounds of indirect nuclear negotiations.The Islamic Republic of Iran has repeatedly stressed that any negotiations with the US must be confined to the nuclear framework and conducted free from a climate of threats.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-stash-reveals-norway-diplomat-terje-r-d-larsen-s-derogatory-remark-on-indians-social-media-erupts-1770028653881">Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts</a>&nbsp;On the eve of the sixth round of talks between Tehran and Washington in June 2025, Israel and the US launched a military attack targeting the senior Iranian military leadership and nuclear facilities, which led to the suspension of the dialogue process.&nbsp;Earlier, the Tasnim News Agency in Iran had reported that Tehran is carefully studying the structure of potential negotiations with the US, with a focus on lifting sanctions and advancing national interests.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-political-transition-from-maduro-regime-remnants-unstoppable-maria-machado-1769968808332">Political transition from Maduro regime remnants unstoppable’: Maria Machado</a>&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said at a press conference on Monday that while threats are inherently incompatible with diplomacy, Iran has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to a diplomatic approach aimed at protecting national interests and maintaining peace and security in the region.The spokesman also emphasised a cautious and time-sensitive approach to the diplomatic process.Esmaeil Baqaei said that regional countries have intensified their efforts as intermediaries, and Iran is carefully weighing all aspects, including the importance of timing.&nbsp;Tasnim News Agency is a semi-official news agency in Iran associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has repeatedly stressed that any negotiations with the US must be confined to the nuclear framework and conducted free from a climate of threats. Iran and the United States have so far held five rounds of indirect nuclear negotiations.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered the initiation of nuclear talks with the US, reported the Fars News Agency on Monday, citing a well-informed source within the Iranian government. The report said that Pezeshkian, the president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, has ordered the initiation of nuclear negotiations with the United States. The Iran-based Fars news agency, which is close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, one of the three branches of the Islamic Republic of Iran Armed Forces, quoted the source as saying that Iran and the US will hold talks strictly within the framework of the nuclear issue.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has repeatedly stressed that any negotiations with the US must be confined to the nuclear framework and conducted free from a climate of threats. Iran and the United States have so far held five rounds of indirect nuclear negotiations.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report

Chinese President Xi Jinping has launched a huge internal cleanup in his defence administration. Recently, he removed many of his top officers from their respective posts and even launched investigations into them. Amid the speculations around the reason behind this sudden military purge, a report has indicated something bigger than corruption within the defence team. The report, which cited US intelligence, has claimed that the purge could be a result of an incident when Chinese nuclear missiles were found filled with water instead of fuel. Yes, you read that right.&nbsp;The report has now raised the question if this was the reason behind the firing of China's Rocket Force leadership in 2024, and now the removal of one of the top military officers of Xi, General Zhang Youxia. Zhang was Beijing's top uniformed officer and an aide of Xi. He was detained on January 19, 2026, for allegedly leaking China's nuclear-weapons data to the US, accepting bribes for promotions, and compromising the combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). There are rumours that the investigation of Zhang is linked to nuclear security lapses.&nbsp;In 2014, Bloomberg had reported, citing a US intelligence officer who said, "One example of corruption was that entire fields of silos in a Xinjiang missile field in Western China were fitted with lids that prevented missiles from launching effectively".&nbsp;"While there may be water in some of China's missiles now, it cannot be assumed that this will remain the case. Xi's dramatic response to the corruption indicates he is serious about building up China's nuclear forces," according to a January 2025 article in the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).&nbsp;"There would be no reason to put water in the missiles unless it was deliberate sabotage," according to The Asia Times report from January 2024.

Reports citing US intelligence claim Xi Jinping’s purge followed discovery of Chinese nuclear missiles filled with water, raising alarms over PLA corruption, sabotage, Rocket Force leadership, and nuclear security readiness.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has launched a huge internal cleanup in his defence administration. Recently, he removed many of his top officers from their respective posts and even launched investigations into them. Amid the speculations around the reason behind this sudden military purge, a report has indicated something bigger than corruption within the defence team. The report, which cited US intelligence, has claimed that the purge could be a result of an incident when Chinese nuclear missiles were found filled with water instead of fuel. Yes, you read that right. The report has now raised the question if this was the reason behind the firing of China's Rocket Force leadership in 2024, and now the removal of one of the top military officers of Xi, General Zhang Youxia. Zhang was Beijing's top uniformed officer and an aide of Xi. He was detained on January 19, 2026, for allegedly leaking China's nuclear-weapons data to the US, accepting bribes for promotions, and compromising the combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). There are rumours that the investigation of Zhang is linked to nuclear security lapses. In 2014, Bloomberg had reported, citing a US intelligence officer who said, "One example of corruption was that entire fields of silos in a Xinjiang missile field in Western China were fitted with lids that prevented missiles from launching effectively". "While there may be water in some of China's missiles now, it cannot be assumed that this will remain the case. Xi's dramatic response to the corruption indicates he is serious about building up China's nuclear forces," according to a January 2025 article in the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). "There would be no reason to put water in the missiles unless it was deliberate sabotage," according to The Asia Times report from January 2024.

Reports citing US intelligence claim Xi Jinping’s purge followed discovery of Chinese nuclear missiles filled with water, raising alarms over PLA corruption, sabotage, Rocket Force leadership, and nuclear security readiness.

Missiles filled with water, not fuel? What 'secret’ did Xi Jinping discover that led to military purge in China?

The United States and the United Kingdom are currently in a dispute over the control of islands hosting at remote locations. Amid this, an island nation, the Maldives, has extended an offer to the American President Donald Trump. The Maldives President, Mohamed Muizzu, has said he is ready to work on an "arrangement" via which the US would continue its presence at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. But in return, the Maldives must get control of the Chagos Archipelago, a UK-held Indian Ocean territory. London is currently planning to transfer the territory to another island nation, Mauritius.&nbsp;The deal between the UK and Mauritius was confirmed last year - and was supported by Trump. But now, the American president voiced opposition, citing national security concerns. Although Mauritius has claimed that the US and UK would have the privilege to maintain operations on the territory.&nbsp;Talking to Newsweek, Muizzu said, “President Trump clearly seeks to protect and secure the continuation of the use of Chagos for the US Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia."&nbsp;“Currently, under British ownership, the UK and the US can operate from the Diego Garcia base freely according to their various security and defence alliances with each other and many other countries, including the Maldives," Muizzu told the outlet, adding: “Under a transfer of sovereignty to the Maldives, the government of Maldives would seek approval through our parliament as per our constitution, to facilitate the continuation of the status quo."&nbsp;Muizzu even explained why Trump should consider the Maldives for this arrangement. He said that his country has the "greatest experience" in maintaining marine conservation areas across thousands of miles of ocean. "We have never overpopulated, overdeveloped, or under-protected marine conservation zones within our current borders - and we would not do so should those borders be expanded to include Chagos," the leader told.&nbsp;

Maldives offers US continued Diego Garcia base access if Chagos shifts from UK to Maldives, challenging UK-Mauritius deal, as Trump raises national security concerns over Indian Ocean control dynamics geopolitics.

The United States and the United Kingdom are currently in a dispute over the control of islands hosting at remote locations. Amid this, an island nation, the Maldives, has extended an offer to the American President Donald Trump. The Maldives President, Mohamed Muizzu, has said he is ready to work on an "arrangement" via which the US would continue its presence at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. But in return, the Maldives must get control of the Chagos Archipelago, a UK-held Indian Ocean territory. London is currently planning to transfer the territory to another island nation, Mauritius. The deal between the UK and Mauritius was confirmed last year - and was supported by Trump. But now, the American president voiced opposition, citing national security concerns. Although Mauritius has claimed that the US and UK would have the privilege to maintain operations on the territory. Talking to Newsweek, Muizzu said, “President Trump clearly seeks to protect and secure the continuation of the use of Chagos for the US Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia." “Currently, under British ownership, the UK and the US can operate from the Diego Garcia base freely according to their various security and defence alliances with each other and many other countries, including the Maldives," Muizzu told the outlet, adding: “Under a transfer of sovereignty to the Maldives, the government of Maldives would seek approval through our parliament as per our constitution, to facilitate the continuation of the status quo." Muizzu even explained why Trump should consider the Maldives for this arrangement. He said that his country has the "greatest experience" in maintaining marine conservation areas across thousands of miles of ocean. "We have never overpopulated, overdeveloped, or under-protected marine conservation zones within our current borders - and we would not do so should those borders be expanded to include Chagos," the leader told.

Maldives offers US continued Diego Garcia base access if Chagos shifts from UK to Maldives, challenging UK-Mauritius deal, as Trump raises national security concerns over Indian Ocean control dynamics geopolitics.

Maldives’ Muizzu has deal for Trump amid US-UK dispute over control of island bases. This is what he offers

Four members of the Bai family mafia, notorious dynasties operating a large-scale scam network in Myanmar has been executed by the Chinese government. All those who were put to death were among 21 of the family's members and aides convicted of fraud, homicide, injury and other crimes by a court in Guangdong province, according to the state media report.&nbsp;In 2025, five of them were sentenced to death, which also included the patriarch of the Bai Suocheng clan, who died of illness after his conviction. Similarly, China has executed 11 mafia members who were members of the Ming family as part of its crackdown on scam networks in Southeast Asia that have entrapped thousands of Chinese victims.<h3>Who are the Bais and the Mings dynasties?</h3>For decades, the Bais faily along with the Mings clan and several others, dominated Myanmar's border town of Laukkaing, operating casinos, brothels and large-scale cyber scam networks. Among these groups, the Bais were regarded as the most powerful, according to Bai Suocheng’s son, who made the remark to state media after his detention.&nbsp;Authorities confirmed that the Bais maintained their own militia and set up 41 compounds used for cyber fraud operations and casinos. Life inside these facilities was marked by extreme violence, with routine beatings and torture. The court noted that the family’s criminal activities resulted in the deaths of six Chinese nationals, one suicide, and multiple injuries.&nbsp;The Bai family’s influence grew in the early 2000s after Laukkaing’s former warlord was removed in a military operation led by Min Aung Hlaing, now the head of Myanmar’s military regime. Seeking cooperative local allies, the military leader backed Bai Suocheng, then a deputy to the ousted warlord.&nbsp;Later, China crashed the empires of the families in 2023 after it was infuriated by the Myanmar military's inaction on the scam operations, which tacitly backed an offensive by ethnic insurgents in the area, marking a turning point in the civil war in Myanmar. Following the move, the scam mafias and their members were captured and handed over to Beijing. As per the United Nations estimate, thousands of people have been trafficked to run online scams in Myanmar and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. &nbsp;

For decades, the Bais faily along with the Mings clan and several others, dominated Myanmar's border town of Laukkaing, operating casinos, brothels and large-scale cyber scam networks. 

Four members of the Bai family mafia, notorious dynasties operating a large-scale scam network in Myanmar has been executed by the Chinese government. All those who were put to death were among 21 of the family's members and aides convicted of fraud, homicide, injury and other crimes by a court in Guangdong province, according to the state media report. In 2025, five of them were sentenced to death, which also included the patriarch of the Bai Suocheng clan, who died of illness after his conviction. Similarly, China has executed 11 mafia members who were members of the Ming family as part of its crackdown on scam networks in Southeast Asia that have entrapped thousands of Chinese victims. Who are the Bais and the Mings dynasties? For decades, the Bais faily along with the Mings clan and several others, dominated Myanmar's border town of Laukkaing, operating casinos, brothels and large-scale cyber scam networks. Among these groups, the Bais were regarded as the most powerful, according to Bai Suocheng’s son, who made the remark to state media after his detention. Authorities confirmed that the Bais maintained their own militia and set up 41 compounds used for cyber fraud operations and casinos. Life inside these facilities was marked by extreme violence, with routine beatings and torture. The court noted that the family’s criminal activities resulted in the deaths of six Chinese nationals, one suicide, and multiple injuries. The Bai family’s influence grew in the early 2000s after Laukkaing’s former warlord was removed in a military operation led by Min Aung Hlaing, now the head of Myanmar’s military regime. Seeking cooperative local allies, the military leader backed Bai Suocheng, then a deputy to the ousted warlord. Later, China crashed the empires of the families in 2023 after it was infuriated by the Myanmar military's inaction on the scam operations, which tacitly backed an offensive by ethnic insurgents in the area, marking a turning point in the civil war in Myanmar. Following the move, the scam mafias and their members were captured and handed over to Beijing. As per the United Nations estimate, thousands of people have been trafficked to run online scams in Myanmar and elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

For decades, the Bais faily along with the Mings clan and several others, dominated Myanmar's border town of Laukkaing, operating casinos, brothels and large-scale cyber scam networks.&nbsp;

After 'Ming family', China executes 4 members of Myanmar-based 'Bai family': Here's why

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After 'Ming family', China executes 4 members of Myanmar-based 'Bai family'