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Donald Trump kicked off a new round of rallies on Tuesday (Jan 27) with a blunt message for voters: “very bad things” will happen if Republicans lose the midterm elections. Speaking at a rally in Iowa, Trump framed the November vote as an existential test for his presidency, urging supporters to deliver him control of both the House and the Senate, even as his own approval ratings remain weak.<h2>'Bad things'</h2>Addressing the crowd in Iowa, the POTUS said, "I'm here because I love Iowa, but I'm here because we're starting the campaign to win the midterms," the president said. "Got to win the midterms."He claimed that “if we lose the midterms, you'll lose so many of the things that we're talking about, so many of the assets that we're talking about, so many of the tax cuts that we're talking about.”“It would lead to very bad things,” warned Trump ominously.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-enemy-ilhan-omar-attacked-during-minneapolis-town-hall-sprayed-with-unknown-liquid-1769563983713">Trump 'enemy' Ilhan Omar attacked during Minneapolis town hall, sprayed with mystery liquid | VIDEO</a><h2>Trump tries to sell the economy</h2>With polls showing growing voter anger over affordability, Trump and his advisers have shifted hard toward economic messaging. In Iowa, the 79-year-old president once again claimed the US had entered a “Golden Age” and insisted prices were falling for most goods. Still, he acknowledged the limits of presidential persuasion.In past elections, “if something happens, the screw turns with the voters,” regardless of how good a president, he said. Polls suggest trouble ahead. A New York Times Siena survey last week put Trump’s approval rating at 40 per cent.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sometimes-people-need-a-dictator-trump-stuns-davos-after-greenland-rant-1769047692322">Sometimes people 'need a dictator’: Trump stuns Davos with sinister threat after Greenland rant</a><h2>Trump hints at a third presidential term</h2>Trump also returned to a familiar provocation, joking about running for a constitutionally barred third term. “Should we do it a fourth time?” he asked, referring to his false claim that he won the 2020 election. Protesters interrupted the speech at least twice. Trump waved them off as “sickos” and “paid insurrectionists.” &nbsp;

Donald Trump launched his midterm rally tour in Iowa with a warning that “very bad things” will happen if Republicans lose. He also used the platform to once again "joke" about a third presidential term.

Donald Trump kicked off a new round of rallies on Tuesday (Jan 27) with a blunt message for voters: “very bad things” will happen if Republicans lose the midterm elections. Speaking at a rally in Iowa, Trump framed the November vote as an existential test for his presidency, urging supporters to deliver him control of both the House and the Senate, even as his own approval ratings remain weak. 'Bad things' Addressing the crowd in Iowa, the POTUS said, "I'm here because I love Iowa, but I'm here because we're starting the campaign to win the midterms," the president said. "Got to win the midterms." He claimed that “if we lose the midterms, you'll lose so many of the things that we're talking about, so many of the assets that we're talking about, so many of the tax cuts that we're talking about.” “It would lead to very bad things,” warned Trump ominously. Also read | Trump 'enemy' Ilhan Omar attacked during Minneapolis town hall, sprayed with mystery liquid | VIDEO Trump tries to sell the economy With polls showing growing voter anger over affordability, Trump and his advisers have shifted hard toward economic messaging. In Iowa, the 79-year-old president once again claimed the US had entered a “Golden Age” and insisted prices were falling for most goods. Still, he acknowledged the limits of presidential persuasion. In past elections, “if something happens, the screw turns with the voters,” regardless of how good a president, he said. Polls suggest trouble ahead. A New York Times Siena survey last week put Trump’s approval rating at 40 per cent. Also read | Sometimes people 'need a dictator’: Trump stuns Davos with sinister threat after Greenland rant Trump hints at a third presidential term Trump also returned to a familiar provocation, joking about running for a constitutionally barred third term. “Should we do it a fourth time?” he asked, referring to his false claim that he won the 2020 election. Protesters interrupted the speech at least twice. Trump waved them off as “sickos” and “paid insurrectionists.”

Donald Trump launched his midterm rally tour in Iowa with a warning that “very bad things” will happen if Republicans lose. He also used the platform to once again "joke" about a third presidential term.

After ‘dictator’ remark, Trump in Iowa rally warns of ‘very bad things’ if Republicans lose midterms

Amid mounting pressure on US administration over the killing of an US citizen by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota, US President Donald Trump has defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. When asked if she is being removed from her position, Trump responded with a plain "no.” Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump also praised Noem stating that she is doing a good job. Trump said, “I think she’s doing a very good job.” Trump had earlier refused to answer if federal agents acted appropriately during Alex Pretti shooting. Trump spent nearly two hours in a closed-door Oval Office meeting on Monday night with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her senior adviser Corey Lewandowski, according to several reports.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blinks-on-ice-crackdown-after-backlash-on-alex-pretti-killing-pulls-some-agents-from-minnesota-will-controversial-bovino-leave-1769471315493">Trump pulls some ICE agents from Minnesota after backlash on Alex Pretti killing</a>&nbsp;Trump on Sunday (Jan 25), in a telephonic conversation with The Wall Street Journal, said that his administration is reviewing everything about Pretti shooting. On Monday (Jan 26), Trump held telephonic conversation with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and said that his border czar, Tom Homan, would meet with Frey “to continue the discussion”. He also assured that some federal agents will leave Minnesota. Trump had also blamed the Democrats for chaos and loss of American citizens' lives.<h2>Greg Bovino removed?</h2>Reports also emerged that Senior Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, who is at the centre of controversy around Alex Pretti shooting, is being relieved of his duties. DHS clarified calling him 'key part of the President's team'. However, just a day ago, Trump handed over the command in Minnesota to "border czar" Tom Homan, while Bovino is reportedly was sent back to previous sector in El Centro, California. CNN also reported that DHS has suspended Bovino's access to his social media accounts.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-border-patrol-commander-faces-flak-for-nazi-style-coat-1769538064773/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-border-patrol-commander-faces-flak-for-nazi-style-coat-1769538064773/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Death of Alex Pretti and Renee Good</h2>Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital and a licensed gun owner, was shot at least 10 times by Border Patrol agents on Nicollet Avenue. While Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and White House advisor Stephen Miller claimed Pretti was a "domestic terrorist" who approached agents with a handgun to "massacre" them, videos verified by major outlets show Pretti holding a cell phone while trying to assist a woman pushed to the ground by agents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-about-hating-trump-charlie-kirk-s-2018-post-resurfaces-after-alex-pretti-shooting-1769324732395">'About hating Trump': Charlie Kirk's 2018 post resurfaces after Alex Pretti shooting</a>&nbsp;The incident was second such killing by ICE agents in Minnesota. Weeks ago, Renee Good, 37-year-old US citizen, was fatally shot by an ICE agent, identified as Jonathan Ross, while she was in her car on Portland Avenue. While DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused Good of "stalking" agents and "weaponizing" her vehicle to run them over, video evidence and eyewitness accounts suggested that Good was attempting to maneuver her car away from the agents after dropping her son off at school.

Under fire over the killing of US citizen Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minnesota, President Donald Trump defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, praised her performance, and ruled out her removal, while ordering a review and pulling some federal agents from the state.

Amid mounting pressure on US administration over the killing of an US citizen by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota, US President Donald Trump has defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. When asked if she is being removed from her position, Trump responded with a plain "no.” Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump also praised Noem stating that she is doing a good job. Trump said, “I think she’s doing a very good job.” Trump had earlier refused to answer if federal agents acted appropriately during Alex Pretti shooting. Trump spent nearly two hours in a closed-door Oval Office meeting on Monday night with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her senior adviser Corey Lewandowski, according to several reports. Also Read: Trump pulls some ICE agents from Minnesota after backlash on Alex Pretti killing Trump on Sunday (Jan 25), in a telephonic conversation with The Wall Street Journal, said that his administration is reviewing everything about Pretti shooting. On Monday (Jan 26), Trump held telephonic conversation with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and said that his border czar, Tom Homan, would meet with Frey “to continue the discussion”. He also assured that some federal agents will leave Minnesota. Trump had also blamed the Democrats for chaos and loss of American citizens' lives. Greg Bovino removed? Reports also emerged that Senior Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, who is at the centre of controversy around Alex Pretti shooting, is being relieved of his duties. DHS clarified calling him 'key part of the President's team'. However, just a day ago, Trump handed over the command in Minnesota to "border czar" Tom Homan, while Bovino is reportedly was sent back to previous sector in El Centro, California. CNN also reported that DHS has suspended Bovino's access to his social media accounts. https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-border-patrol-commander-faces-flak-for-nazi-style-coat-1769538064773/embed Death of Alex Pretti and Renee Good Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital and a licensed gun owner, was shot at least 10 times by Border Patrol agents on Nicollet Avenue. While Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and White House advisor Stephen Miller claimed Pretti was a "domestic terrorist" who approached agents with a handgun to "massacre" them, videos verified by major outlets show Pretti holding a cell phone while trying to assist a woman pushed to the ground by agents. Also Read: 'About hating Trump': Charlie Kirk's 2018 post resurfaces after Alex Pretti shooting The incident was second such killing by ICE agents in Minnesota. Weeks ago, Renee Good, 37-year-old US citizen, was fatally shot by an ICE agent, identified as Jonathan Ross, while she was in her car on Portland Avenue. While DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused Good of "stalking" agents and "weaponizing" her vehicle to run them over, video evidence and eyewitness accounts suggested that Good was attempting to maneuver her car away from the agents after dropping her son off at school.

Under fire over the killing of US citizen Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minnesota, President Donald Trump defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, praised her performance, and ruled out her removal, while ordering a review and pulling some federal agents from the state.

Will DHS head Kristi Noem be removed amid Alex Pretti shooting row? Trump's one-word response

US President Donald Trump's 'enemy', Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, on Tuesday (Jan 27) was attacked while speaking during a town hall meeting in Minneapolis. The Democrat was standing behind a podium, addressing the crowd, when a man suddenly rushed toward her from the audience, spraying her with an unknown substance.<h2>What happened?</h2>Omar, who has recently been the target of several Trump rants, was speaking during the town hall when a man rushed towards her. Witnesses say the man sprayed Omar with an unknown liquid and shouted as he moved in. What he yelled was not immediately clear.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sometimes-people-need-a-dictator-trump-stuns-davos-after-greenland-rant-1769047692322">Sometimes people 'need a dictator’: Trump stuns Davos with sinister threat after Greenland rant</a><h2>A swift takedown</h2>The moment, which was captured on video, lasted only seconds. An apparent member of Omar’s security team lunged forward, wrapping the man in a bear hug and pulling him away from the stage. As he was being restrained, Omar could be seen stepping towards her attacker, visibly angry, though she did not appear to touch him. He was quickly escorted out of the room as the event was brought to a halt.&nbsp;Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BREAKING: Ilhan Omar sprayed with “unknown substance” at a Town Hall in Minneapolis Unfortunately, the substance WASN’T some sort of deportation potion, as Omar is still speaking at the podium. Darn. <a href="https://t.co/6thg5TdEIB">pic.twitter.com/6thg5TdEIB</a>&mdash; Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) <a href="https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2016319378992562437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>"It smelled so bad"</h2>Seconds later, confusion spread through the room. Other speakers on stage commented on the sharp smell left behind by the spray. "You need to go get checked," one woman urged Omar. "You don’t know what he (sprayed). Whatever it is smelled so bad."Omar, however, refused to leave. "We will continue," she said. "These fu**ing as****es are not going to get away with this." She returned to the microphone as a member of her security detail tried to pull her away from the stage. "We are Minnesota strong," Omar told the crowd. “And we will stay resilient in the face of whatever they might throw at us.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/does-trump-have-alzheimer-s-his-niece-reveals-as-potus-ironically-forgets-the-word-for-it-1769513254487">Does Trump have Alzheimer’s? His niece reveals as POTUS ironically forgets the word for it</a><h2>Trump's enemy'</h2>The attack comes as President Donald Trump once again singled out Omar. Speaking at a rally in Iowa, Trump suggested the Department of Justice was investigating Omar's wealth. "The DOJ and Congress are looking at 'Congresswoman' Ilhan Omar," Trump said, claiming she arrived in the US with nothing and is now “worth more than 44 million dollars.”Omar responded sharply on social media, accusing Trump of using her name to distract from his political troubles, like the unrest in Minneapolis following the killing of demonstrator Alex Pretti.."Sorry, Trump, your support is collapsing, and you're panicking," she wrote on X. "Right on cue, you're deflecting from your failures with lies and conspiracy theories about me."Trump has repeatedly targeted Omar, often using language critics describe as Islamophobic. The Somali American lawmaker has been one of his most vocal critics, especially over immigration and rhetoric aimed at the Somali community.

A man rushed the stage and sprayed an unknown substance at Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall in Minneapolis. Video shows the attack and how security tackled the attacker within seconds. Watch it here.

US President Donald Trump's 'enemy', Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, on Tuesday (Jan 27) was attacked while speaking during a town hall meeting in Minneapolis. The Democrat was standing behind a podium, addressing the crowd, when a man suddenly rushed toward her from the audience, spraying her with an unknown substance. What happened? Omar, who has recently been the target of several Trump rants, was speaking during the town hall when a man rushed towards her. Witnesses say the man sprayed Omar with an unknown liquid and shouted as he moved in. What he yelled was not immediately clear. Also read | Sometimes people 'need a dictator’: Trump stuns Davos with sinister threat after Greenland rant A swift takedown The moment, which was captured on video, lasted only seconds. An apparent member of Omar’s security team lunged forward, wrapping the man in a bear hug and pulling him away from the stage. As he was being restrained, Omar could be seen stepping towards her attacker, visibly angry, though she did not appear to touch him. He was quickly escorted out of the room as the event was brought to a halt. Watch it here:

A man rushed the stage and sprayed an unknown substance at Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall in Minneapolis. Video shows the attack and how security tackled the attacker within seconds. Watch it here.

Trump 'enemy' Ilhan Omar attacked during Minneapolis town hall, sprayed with mystery liquid | VIDEO

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated his stark warning against Iran, saying the Islamic Republic will face serious consequences if it attacks Tel Aviv. "Now, it is true - the Iranian axis is trying to recover - but we will not allow it to do so. If Iran makes the grave mistake of attacking Israel, we will respond with a force Iran has never seen before,” Netanyahu said on Tuesday (Jan 27).&nbsp;"President Trump will decide whatever he decides, and the State of Israel will decide whatever it decides. We are closely following developments, and we are prepared for every scenario,” the Israeli PM added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency.<h2>Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries</h2>Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts.<h2>Iran's militia strategy - key elements</h2>The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups.&nbsp;Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Iran of unprecedented retaliation if it attacks Tel Aviv, saying Israel is prepared for all scenarios while closely monitoring US decisions and regional developments globally.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated his stark warning against Iran, saying the Islamic Republic will face serious consequences if it attacks Tel Aviv. "Now, it is true - the Iranian axis is trying to recover - but we will not allow it to do so. If Iran makes the grave mistake of attacking Israel, we will respond with a force Iran has never seen before,” Netanyahu said on Tuesday (Jan 27). "President Trump will decide whatever he decides, and the State of Israel will decide whatever it decides. We are closely following developments, and we are prepared for every scenario,” the Israeli PM added. Meanwhile, amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency. Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts. Iran's militia strategy - key elements The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups. Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Iran of unprecedented retaliation if it attacks Tel Aviv, saying Israel is prepared for all scenarios while closely monitoring US decisions and regional developments globally.

'Will respond with a force Iran has never seen before': Netanyahu warns Tehran, says 'Trump will...'

Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he would urge the European Union to list &nbsp;Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. “The losses suffered by the civilian population during the protests require a clear response,” he wrote on X. In response, Iran summoned the minister for what Tehran described as "irresponsible remarks by Italy’s foreign minister" about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.&nbsp;After the summons, the foreign ministry’s director general for Western Europe warned of what he described as damaging consequences of labelling the Revolutionary Guards and urged Italy to revise what he called ill-considered approaches toward Iran, the reports said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran's exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi welcomed Tajani's proposal, saying, “I welcome the Italian government’s position on proscribing the IRGC and thank Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani for advancing this in Brussels."<h2>Can EU designate a State Military Force as terrorist group?</h2>Well, the answer is yes. The EU has the right to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. But the decision is possible in strict legal conditions.<h2>IRGC is different</h2>The IRGC is not a non-state militia group like ISIS or Al-Qaeda. It is a formal branch of Iran's armed forces. It is directly embedded in Tehran's state structure. The group is responsible for military, intelligence, and economic activities.&nbsp;If the EU designates the group as a terrorist organisation, it would mean labelling part of a sovereign state’s military as terrorist - and that move will have serious diplomatic and legal consequences.<h2>When can EU designate a group as terror organiation?</h2>As per the EU law, a group can only be placed on the EU terrorist list under these circumstances:<ul><li>The decision is taken by a competent judicial authority.</li><li>The decision is based on terrorist acts, not just political judgment.</li></ul><h2>What would happen if EU designate IRGC as terror group?</h2>If the EU succeeds in doing so, all the IRGC-linked entities in the EU could be criminalised. Any support by the IRGC, even indirect ones, could become illegal. Iran could retaliate by targeting EU forces or interests in response to the act. &nbsp;

Iran’s IRGC warned neighbouring countries that allowing their territory, airspace, or waters to be used against Iran would make them hostile parties, raising regional tensions amid escalating geopolitical conflict.

Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he would urge the European Union to list Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. “The losses suffered by the civilian population during the protests require a clear response,” he wrote on X. In response, Iran summoned the minister for what Tehran described as "irresponsible remarks by Italy’s foreign minister" about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. After the summons, the foreign ministry’s director general for Western Europe warned of what he described as damaging consequences of labelling the Revolutionary Guards and urged Italy to revise what he called ill-considered approaches toward Iran, the reports said. Meanwhile, Iran's exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi welcomed Tajani's proposal, saying, “I welcome the Italian government’s position on proscribing the IRGC and thank Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani for advancing this in Brussels." Can EU designate a State Military Force as terrorist group? Well, the answer is yes. The EU has the right to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. But the decision is possible in strict legal conditions. IRGC is different The IRGC is not a non-state militia group like ISIS or Al-Qaeda. It is a formal branch of Iran's armed forces. It is directly embedded in Tehran's state structure. The group is responsible for military, intelligence, and economic activities. If the EU designates the group as a terrorist organisation, it would mean labelling part of a sovereign state’s military as terrorist - and that move will have serious diplomatic and legal consequences. When can EU designate a group as terror organiation? As per the EU law, a group can only be placed on the EU terrorist list under these circumstances: The decision is taken by a competent judicial authority. The decision is based on terrorist acts, not just political judgment. What would happen if EU designate IRGC as terror group? If the EU succeeds in doing so, all the IRGC-linked entities in the EU could be criminalised. Any support by the IRGC, even indirect ones, could become illegal. Iran could retaliate by targeting EU forces or interests in response to the act.

Iran’s IRGC warned neighbouring countries that allowing their territory, airspace, or waters to be used against Iran would make them hostile parties, raising regional tensions amid escalating geopolitical conflict.

IRGC as terrorist group? Can EU designate a state military force as terrorist organisation?

Amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency.<h2>Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries</h2>Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts.<h2>Iran's militia strategy - key elements</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vs-iran-america-offers-15mn-in-reward-for-information-about-the-irgc-s-oil-transfers-details-inside-1769516715631">US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside</a>&nbsp;The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups.&nbsp;Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

IRGC warns neighbouring states that if their soil, airspace, or waters are used against Iran, they will be deemed “hostile,” escalating regional stakes amid rising tensions with the US and allies.

Amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency. Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts. Iran's militia strategy - key elements Also read: US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups. Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

IRGC warns neighbouring states that if their soil, airspace, or waters are used against Iran, they will be deemed “hostile,” escalating regional stakes amid rising tensions with the US and allies.

‘If their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran...’: IRGC’s warning to neighbouring nations, says they’ll be considered ‘hostile’

President Donald Trump spent nearly two hours in a closed-door Oval Office meeting on Monday night with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her senior adviser Corey Lewandowski, according to two sources familiar with the discussion. Noem had requested the face-to-face conversation. The meeting followed signs that the administration is scaling back its aggressive federal response in Minneapolis after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on Saturday, the second death involving federal agents in the city this month.&nbsp;Sources said Trump did not raise the possibility of dismissing either Noem or Lewandowski. Instead, the conversation focused on how to press forward with the president’s immigration policies in Minnesota as criticism mounts nationally, including from within the Republican Party, and tensions escalate locally. Several senior White House officials were also present, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, and Communications Director Steven Cheung. The New York Times first reported the meeting.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uss-abraham-lincoln-arrival-us-announces-multi-day-air-drill-amid-escalating-iran-tensions-1769530980276">After USS Abraham Lincoln arrival, US announces multi-day air drill amid escalating Iran tensions</a>&nbsp;While the White House declined to comment directly, an administration official reiterated Trump’s continued backing of Noem. In the aftermath of Pretti’s killing, federal officials circulated multiple claims that have since been challenged by video evidence or remain unsubstantiated. Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino, who had overseen immigration enforcement efforts in Minneapolis, engaged in public disputes online, asserting that Pretti attacked federal officers before being shot.&nbsp;Bovino’s social media accounts were suspended by DHS on Monday, and he is expected to depart Minneapolis on Tuesday after Trump announced that border czar Tom Homan would take over leadership of the operation. Speaking on Fox News, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin confirmed that Trump and Noem have held extended discussions but declined to share details. She stressed that Noem will remain in charge of the department and welcomed Homan’s involvement in overseeing operations in the city.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-india-s-air-superiority-forced-pak-to-seek-ceasefire-during-op-sindoor-1769533570345/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-india-s-air-superiority-forced-pak-to-seek-ceasefire-during-op-sindoor-1769533570345/embed</a>&nbsp;The federal investigation into Saturday’s shooting is being led by Homeland Security Investigations, with support from the FBI. However, authorities have released few details, and the Justice Department has not initiated a civil rights probe. Meanwhile, officials have established a crisis coordination center in Minneapolis focused on investigating protest activity.

Donald Trump meets with Kristi Noem for two hours as administration faces pressure over Minneapolis shootings

President Donald Trump spent nearly two hours in a closed-door Oval Office meeting on Monday night with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her senior adviser Corey Lewandowski, according to two sources familiar with the discussion. Noem had requested the face-to-face conversation. The meeting followed signs that the administration is scaling back its aggressive federal response in Minneapolis after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on Saturday, the second death involving federal agents in the city this month. Sources said Trump did not raise the possibility of dismissing either Noem or Lewandowski. Instead, the conversation focused on how to press forward with the president’s immigration policies in Minnesota as criticism mounts nationally, including from within the Republican Party, and tensions escalate locally. Several senior White House officials were also present, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, and Communications Director Steven Cheung. The New York Times first reported the meeting. Also Read: After USS Abraham Lincoln arrival, US announces multi-day air drill amid escalating Iran tensions While the White House declined to comment directly, an administration official reiterated Trump’s continued backing of Noem. In the aftermath of Pretti’s killing, federal officials circulated multiple claims that have since been challenged by video evidence or remain unsubstantiated. Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino, who had overseen immigration enforcement efforts in Minneapolis, engaged in public disputes online, asserting that Pretti attacked federal officers before being shot. Bovino’s social media accounts were suspended by DHS on Monday, and he is expected to depart Minneapolis on Tuesday after Trump announced that border czar Tom Homan would take over leadership of the operation. Speaking on Fox News, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin confirmed that Trump and Noem have held extended discussions but declined to share details. She stressed that Noem will remain in charge of the department and welcomed Homan’s involvement in overseeing operations in the city. https://www.wionews.com/videos/operation-sindoor-india-s-air-superiority-forced-pak-to-seek-ceasefire-during-op-sindoor-1769533570345/embed The federal investigation into Saturday’s shooting is being led by Homeland Security Investigations, with support from the FBI. However, authorities have released few details, and the Justice Department has not initiated a civil rights probe. Meanwhile, officials have established a crisis coordination center in Minneapolis focused on investigating protest activity.

Trump met with DHS Secretary Kristi Noem as federal immigration operations in Minneapolis face backlash after a fatal shooting and disputed official claims

The Doomsday Clock, a metaphorical measure of how close humanity is to destroying the world through technologies of its own making, especially nuclear weapons, stands at 85 seconds to midnight as of January 27, having moved four seconds closer. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, which created the clock at the start of the Cold War, announced on Tuesday that it has advanced by four seconds compared with a year ago, bringing it closest to a global catastrophe in its history. The announcement comes as Donald Trump, who often describes himself as the president of peace, completed one year in the White House of his second term. The first year of Trump's presidency is marked by shattering norms, withdrawing from established multilateral organisations, ordering unilateral actions abroad and deploying massive force at home, even after opposition from local authorities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-lady-melania-trump-makes-rare-political-statement-as-anti-ice-unrest-grips-minnesota-1769525629288">First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota</a>&nbsp;Major powers such as Russia, China, the United States and others have "become increasingly aggressive, adversarial and nationalistic," said a statement announcing the clock shift, concluded after consultations with a board that includes eight Nobel laureates, AFP reported.&nbsp;"Hard-won global understandings are collapsing, accelerating a winner-takes-all great power competition and undermining the international cooperation critical to reducing the risks of nuclear war, climate change, the misuse of biotechnology, the potential threat of artificial intelligence and other apocalyptic dangers." The Doomsday Clock board cautioned against increased risk of a nuclear arms race after the "New START" nuclear arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia set to expire next week without a sign of renewal. &nbsp;"For the first time in over half a century, there will be nothing preventing a runaway nuclear arms race," Daniel Holz, a University of Chicago physicist who chairs the Bulletin's Science and Security Board, told a virtual news conference, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;The board voiced its concerns about Donald Trump's threats to resume nuclear testing and push a costly 'Golden Dome" missile defence system, which is expected to further militarise space. It also raised alarm over Trump's ICE crackdown in Minnesota, noting "History has shown that when governments become unaccountable to their own citizens, conflict and misery follow."<h2>What is the Doomsday Clock?</h2>The Doomsday Clock is a symbolic "design" created in 1947 by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists (including former members of the Manhattan Project). It serves as a metaphor for how close humanity is to destroying the world through technologies of its own making.&nbsp;Midnight: Represents the theoretical point of "annihilation" or global catastrophe.&nbsp;Who sets it? The Bulletin’s Science and Security Board, a group of global experts in nuclear technology and climate science, in consultation with its Board of Sponsors, which includes 9 Nobel Laureates.&nbsp;The Scale: It began at 7 minutes to midnight in 1947. Its "safest" point was 17 minutes to midnight in 1991, following the end of the Cold War.&nbsp;However, the clock is not a tool to predict the future; it acts as a call to action. The bulletin underlined that the hands can be moved back if world leaders act responsibly and embrace diplomacy to solve conflicts and work towards the climate issues the world is facing.&nbsp;

This is the closest the symbolic clock has ever been to a global catastrophe in its 79-year history, surpassing the previous record of 89 seconds set just last year.

The Doomsday Clock, a metaphorical measure of how close humanity is to destroying the world through technologies of its own making, especially nuclear weapons, stands at 85 seconds to midnight as of January 27, having moved four seconds closer. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, which created the clock at the start of the Cold War, announced on Tuesday that it has advanced by four seconds compared with a year ago, bringing it closest to a global catastrophe in its history. The announcement comes as Donald Trump, who often describes himself as the president of peace, completed one year in the White House of his second term. The first year of Trump's presidency is marked by shattering norms, withdrawing from established multilateral organisations, ordering unilateral actions abroad and deploying massive force at home, even after opposition from local authorities. Also Read: First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota Major powers such as Russia, China, the United States and others have "become increasingly aggressive, adversarial and nationalistic," said a statement announcing the clock shift, concluded after consultations with a board that includes eight Nobel laureates, AFP reported. "Hard-won global understandings are collapsing, accelerating a winner-takes-all great power competition and undermining the international cooperation critical to reducing the risks of nuclear war, climate change, the misuse of biotechnology, the potential threat of artificial intelligence and other apocalyptic dangers." The Doomsday Clock board cautioned against increased risk of a nuclear arms race after the "New START" nuclear arms reduction treaty between the United States and Russia set to expire next week without a sign of renewal. "For the first time in over half a century, there will be nothing preventing a runaway nuclear arms race," Daniel Holz, a University of Chicago physicist who chairs the Bulletin's Science and Security Board, told a virtual news conference, as quoted by AFP. The board voiced its concerns about Donald Trump's threats to resume nuclear testing and push a costly 'Golden Dome" missile defence system, which is expected to further militarise space. It also raised alarm over Trump's ICE crackdown in Minnesota, noting "History has shown that when governments become unaccountable to their own citizens, conflict and misery follow." What is the Doomsday Clock? The Doomsday Clock is a symbolic "design" created in 1947 by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists (including former members of the Manhattan Project). It serves as a metaphor for how close humanity is to destroying the world through technologies of its own making. Midnight: Represents the theoretical point of "annihilation" or global catastrophe. Who sets it? The Bulletin’s Science and Security Board, a group of global experts in nuclear technology and climate science, in consultation with its Board of Sponsors, which includes 9 Nobel Laureates. The Scale: It began at 7 minutes to midnight in 1947. Its "safest" point was 17 minutes to midnight in 1991, following the end of the Cold War. However, the clock is not a tool to predict the future; it acts as a call to action. The bulletin underlined that the hands can be moved back if world leaders act responsibly and embrace diplomacy to solve conflicts and work towards the climate issues the world is facing.

This is the closest the symbolic clock has ever been to a global catastrophe in its 79-year history, surpassing the previous record of 89 seconds set just last year.

Is world closer to the end? As Doomsday Clock moves nearer to midnight, a year into Trump’s term

As tensions with Iran continue to rise, the US military is ramping up its presence in the Middle East with a new large-scale air exercise announced by US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Tuesday (Jan 27). The Ninth Air Force, known operationally as Air Forces Central (AFCENT), confirmed it has started a multi-day readiness drill aimed at showcasing its capacity to rapidly deploy, spread out, and maintain air combat operations across CENTCOM’s area of responsibility. According to AFCENT, the exercise is focused on improving the military’s ability to disperse aircraft and personnel, deepen cooperation with regional partners, and execute flexible response options in a dynamic security environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;The drill will test rapid relocation procedures for troops and aircraft, operations from temporary or contingency bases, and sustainment of missions with a minimal logistical footprint. It will also assess multinational command-and-control coordination across a wide operational theater. During the exercise, US forces will send small teams to several contingency sites to practice swift setup, aircraft launch, and recovery using lean support packages. AFCENT emphasized that all activities are being carried out with the consent of host nations and in close coordination with both civil and military aviation authorities, underscoring safety and respect for national sovereignty.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-the-court-s-patience-is-at-an-end-us-judge-orders-acting-ice-director-to-appear-in-court-1769527678019">'The court's patience is at an end': US judge orders acting ICE director to appear in court</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. Air Forces Central will be conducting a multi-day readiness exercise to demonstrate the ability to deploy, disperse, and sustain combat airpower across the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Read more: <a href="https://t.co/F4rRENnVGD">https://t.co/F4rRENnVGD</a> <a href="https://t.co/ny80gdjuQU">pic.twitter.com/ny80gdjuQU</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2016135848048103764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The announcement comes just one day after CENTCOM confirmed the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group in the region, significantly expanding US offensive and defensive capabilities. The carrier’s deployment provides President Donald Trump with additional military options amid heightened scrutiny of Iran following the regime’s deadly crackdown on protesters.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-vs-iran-trump-boasts-big-armada-next-to-iran-tehran-draws-red-line-warns-all-out-war-1769524537257/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-vs-iran-trump-boasts-big-armada-next-to-iran-tehran-draws-red-line-warns-all-out-war-1769524537257/embed</a>&nbsp;Lt. Gen. Derek France, commander of AFCENT and Combined Forces Air Component for CENTCOM, said the exercise highlights the readiness and adaptability of US air forces operating under challenging conditions. He noted that the drills reinforce the disciplined execution needed to ensure airpower can be delivered effectively alongside international partners whenever and wherever required.

After USS Abraham Lincoln arrival, US announces multi-day air drill amid escalating Iran tensions

As tensions with Iran continue to rise, the US military is ramping up its presence in the Middle East with a new large-scale air exercise announced by US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Tuesday (Jan 27). The Ninth Air Force, known operationally as Air Forces Central (AFCENT), confirmed it has started a multi-day readiness drill aimed at showcasing its capacity to rapidly deploy, spread out, and maintain air combat operations across CENTCOM’s area of responsibility. According to AFCENT, the exercise is focused on improving the military’s ability to disperse aircraft and personnel, deepen cooperation with regional partners, and execute flexible response options in a dynamic security environment. The drill will test rapid relocation procedures for troops and aircraft, operations from temporary or contingency bases, and sustainment of missions with a minimal logistical footprint. It will also assess multinational command-and-control coordination across a wide operational theater. During the exercise, US forces will send small teams to several contingency sites to practice swift setup, aircraft launch, and recovery using lean support packages. AFCENT emphasized that all activities are being carried out with the consent of host nations and in close coordination with both civil and military aviation authorities, underscoring safety and respect for national sovereignty. Also Read: 'The court's patience is at an end': US judge orders acting ICE director to appear in court

The US Air Forces start a multi-day Middle East exercise to test rapid deployment and dispersed operations as tensions with Iran continue to escalate

US Congressman Adam Smith, a senior Democrat from Washington’s 9th district, and Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, has pointed to strong support for India at the US Congress and expressed hope for a bilateral India US trade deal following India's newly announced Free Trade Agreement with the European Union.&nbsp;“There’s incredibly strong support, a bipartisan House and Senate,” Smith said, while speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal. “People recognise how important a partner India is, and want to build and enhance that relationship.”&nbsp;The lawmaker, who is a long-time member of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, and a 28-year veteran of Congress, described current relations as “a little tense right now” due to President Donald Trump’s rhetoric and tariffs aimed at reshoring US manufacturing. “I find it troubling that the President has said some of the things he said, and how it has made the relationship more divisive than it should be,” he explained.&nbsp;He highlighted India’s EU FTA as adding “greater incentive and urgency” to concluding a US-India trade agreement. Full interview:<h2> How has your visit to Delhi been?</h2>Well, it's been very well received. We've met with the foreign minister. We met with a number of Indian businesses. Our focus is on the defence industry. We're part of the Armed Services Committee in the United States House. So we want to enhance and build the defence relationship between India and the US, and crucially, between defence companies, to help increase the manufacture of defence products.<h2>So far, how do you see the trajectory between India and the US in terms of defense and what's the way forward when it comes to defence cooperation, collaboration, perhaps co-production?</h2> I think it's been very positive. We started 10-15 years ago. For a long time, there was not much of a relationship at all, but there was a really concerted effort across multiple administrations in both countries to build on that, to try to get us to the point where we are sharing more defence production and working closer together. The two largest democracies in the world, we have a natural relationship and partnership. Very large Indian American community in the US, my district in particular. So we want to grow that relationship, increase trade and increase our ability to produce defence products. I think we're headed in the right direction. I will say we have a long way to go. I think the potential is limitless.<h2>When it comes to India, US relationship, what's your view like? Because here in Delhi, there is a lot of increased scepticism, and we have seen that's primarily because of the comments by the US president, Donald Trump. So, how do you, as a congressman characterize the relationship?</h2>Yeah, I mean, to be honest, I'm a Democrat from the opposite party. I don't support the President's language. I don't support the tariffs. I understand why he did it. He's focused on trying to bring manufacturing back to the US. I don't agree that that's going to work. I think some of the language that has been used has been unnecessarily divisive with India.&nbsp;&nbsp;Like, I know that the President thinks that India is an incredibly important partner. He wants a strong relationship. So whatever the rhetoric, some of the actions, other things, want to move in a different direction. But no, I don't think that's helped. Don't think that's helpful. I think that generates, you know, more tension between our two countries. That's part of the reason we're here, is we want to have other members of Congress, other people come out. It's good that we now have an ambassador here. We've had several meetings with Ambassador Gor. I think he's going to significantly improve the relationship. But, yeah, it's a little tense right now. I want to see it get better.<h2>But what's the view at the hill, at the Congress, when it comes to India, US relationship?</h2> There's incredibly strong support, a bipartisan House and Senate. People recognise how important a partner India is, and want to build and enhance that relationship. I'm a member of the India Caucus. I mean, we see the potential for the relationship and our shared interests in the region, concerned about the role that China is playing. How do we make sure that we have an adequate deterrence to that and work together? So there's very strong bipartisan support for the US-India relationship in Congress.&nbsp;<h2>But do you think that the Congress will be able to give a sense to the President when it comes to the India-US relationship? Perhaps the last few months, the last year, has been the worst in terms of the relationship when it comes to the last 20 years, because it looks like the gains of 20 years have been reversed in many ways.</h2> Yeah, I don't think the gains have been reversed. I think that's an overstatement. I mean, there are too many relationships that have been built to be reversed by just a few words from our president and those actions. So I think there's a greater strength there. Look, I'm gonna be honest with you, I find it troubling that the President has said some of the things he said, and how it has made the relationship more divisive than it should be, and I think we need to work to rebuild that. I think there is more strength underlying that than just a few actions by this president can change.&nbsp;<h2>You're hopeful the tariffs will be removed, because there are hints coming from the top Trump officials, including by the president himself, who recently, last week in Davos, said that there will be a trade deal.</h2> Yeah, well, we're building towards that trade deal. And I know India has just announced their trade deal with the EU that gives greater incentive and urgency to us getting that deal done. And I know there's a desire to do that, and I'm hopeful that we can reduce the tariffs as a result of that. And you know, domestically, we also there's a lawsuit working its way through the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court could remove the tariffs as being illegal , as the president didn't have the power to impose them without Congress. So there are a lot of things that can happen here in the near term that would reduce those tariffs. I and a lot of other members of Congress and I are working all of those avenues to try and bring those tariffs down.<h2>On your meeting with the Indian External Affairs Minister. How was the meeting? &nbsp;</h2>Well, it's very impressive. Your External Affairs Minister is such a seasoned, experienced diplomat, certainly in US India relations, but across the world, we had good conversations with him about some of his interactions with President Putin and Russia. Now, I think he recognizes everything that we talked about here, and at the end of the day, something that our president, the minister, PM Modi, we all want a strong relationship between India and the US, and that's what we're going to going to work towards, as I mentioned, and as you mentioned, there's been a couple hiccups in that. You're a democracy, so you could appreciate this. We have a lot of different voices in our government, and they all have a right to be heard. But there is strong, strong support for India, across the board, in our country and in our government.<h2> Over the last one year, we have seen a tilt by the Trump administration towards Pakistan, which has created a lot of bad will, I would say here in Delhi, given the fact that Pakistan supports cross-border terrorism into India. Is it here to stay, or is it just a fleeting thing which is happening in Washington?</h2> I think that's a slight misinterpretation by India. I don't think President Trump has tilted towards Pakistan. We have individual relationships with every country in the world. We have an individual relationship with India. We have an individual relationship with Pakistan. I hope, and I can understand why India would view it that way. But I don't really see it as a tilt towards Pakistan. We're trying to manage that relationship as we're trying to build on this relationship. So I don't think India needs to worry about the US abandoning India for Pakistan. That's not where I see this administration headed, even as much as I disagree with the tariffs that they put on Pakistan and everybody else as well. I do understand India got more because of the Russian oil issue, but no, I wouldn't interpret it as a tilt towards Pakistan. &nbsp;

Smith said, “I'm a Democrat from the opposite party. I don't support the President's language. I don't support the tariffs. I understand why he did it. He's focused on trying to bring manufacturing back to the US. I don't agree that that's going to work”.

US Congressman Adam Smith, a senior Democrat from Washington’s 9th district, and Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, has pointed to strong support for India at the US Congress and expressed hope for a bilateral India US trade deal following India's newly announced Free Trade Agreement with the European Union. “There’s incredibly strong support, a bipartisan House and Senate,” Smith said, while speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal. “People recognise how important a partner India is, and want to build and enhance that relationship.” The lawmaker, who is a long-time member of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, and a 28-year veteran of Congress, described current relations as “a little tense right now” due to President Donald Trump’s rhetoric and tariffs aimed at reshoring US manufacturing. “I find it troubling that the President has said some of the things he said, and how it has made the relationship more divisive than it should be,” he explained. He highlighted India’s EU FTA as adding “greater incentive and urgency” to concluding a US-India trade agreement. Full interview: How has your visit to Delhi been? Well, it's been very well received. We've met with the foreign minister. We met with a number of Indian businesses. Our focus is on the defence industry. We're part of the Armed Services Committee in the United States House. So we want to enhance and build the defence relationship between India and the US, and crucially, between defence companies, to help increase the manufacture of defence products. So far, how do you see the trajectory between India and the US in terms of defense and what's the way forward when it comes to defence cooperation, collaboration, perhaps co-production? I think it's been very positive. We started 10-15 years ago. For a long time, there was not much of a relationship at all, but there was a really concerted effort across multiple administrations in both countries to build on that, to try to get us to the point where we are sharing more defence production and working closer together. The two largest democracies in the world, we have a natural relationship and partnership. Very large Indian American community in the US, my district in particular. So we want to grow that relationship, increase trade and increase our ability to produce defence products. I think we're headed in the right direction. I will say we have a long way to go. I think the potential is limitless. When it comes to India, US relationship, what's your view like? Because here in Delhi, there is a lot of increased scepticism, and we have seen that's primarily because of the comments by the US president, Donald Trump. So, how do you, as a congressman characterize the relationship? Yeah, I mean, to be honest, I'm a Democrat from the opposite party. I don't support the President's language. I don't support the tariffs. I understand why he did it. He's focused on trying to bring manufacturing back to the US. I don't agree that that's going to work. I think some of the language that has been used has been unnecessarily divisive with India. Like, I know that the President thinks that India is an incredibly important partner. He wants a strong relationship. So whatever the rhetoric, some of the actions, other things, want to move in a different direction. But no, I don't think that's helped. Don't think that's helpful. I think that generates, you know, more tension between our two countries. That's part of the reason we're here, is we want to have other members of Congress, other people come out. It's good that we now have an ambassador here. We've had several meetings with Ambassador Gor. I think he's going to significantly improve the relationship. But, yeah, it's a little tense right now. I want to see it get better. But what's the view at the hill, at the Congress, when it comes to India, US relationship? There's incredibly strong support, a bipartisan House and Senate. People recognise how important a partner India is, and want to build and enhance that relationship. I'm a member of the India Caucus. I mean, we see the potential for the relationship and our shared interests in the region, concerned about the role that China is playing. How do we make sure that we have an adequate deterrence to that and work together? So there's very strong bipartisan support for the US-India relationship in Congress. But do you think that the Congress will be able to give a sense to the President when it comes to the India-US relationship? Perhaps the last few months, the last year, has been the worst in terms of the relationship when it comes to the last 20 years, because it looks like the gains of 20 years have been reversed in many ways. Yeah, I don't think the gains have been reversed. I think that's an overstatement. I mean, there are too many relationships that have been built to be reversed by just a few words from our president and those actions. So I think there's a greater strength there. Look, I'm gonna be honest with you, I find it troubling that the President has said some of the things he said, and how it has made the relationship more divisive than it should be, and I think we need to work to rebuild that. I think there is more strength underlying that than just a few actions by this president can change. You're hopeful the tariffs will be removed, because there are hints coming from the top Trump officials, including by the president himself, who recently, last week in Davos, said that there will be a trade deal. Yeah, well, we're building towards that trade deal. And I know India has just announced their trade deal with the EU that gives greater incentive and urgency to us getting that deal done. And I know there's a desire to do that, and I'm hopeful that we can reduce the tariffs as a result of that. And you know, domestically, we also there's a lawsuit working its way through the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court could remove the tariffs as being illegal , as the president didn't have the power to impose them without Congress. So there are a lot of things that can happen here in the near term that would reduce those tariffs. I and a lot of other members of Congress and I are working all of those avenues to try and bring those tariffs down. On your meeting with the Indian External Affairs Minister. How was the meeting? Well, it's very impressive. Your External Affairs Minister is such a seasoned, experienced diplomat, certainly in US India relations, but across the world, we had good conversations with him about some of his interactions with President Putin and Russia. Now, I think he recognizes everything that we talked about here, and at the end of the day, something that our president, the minister, PM Modi, we all want a strong relationship between India and the US, and that's what we're going to going to work towards, as I mentioned, and as you mentioned, there's been a couple hiccups in that. You're a democracy, so you could appreciate this. We have a lot of different voices in our government, and they all have a right to be heard. But there is strong, strong support for India, across the board, in our country and in our government. Over the last one year, we have seen a tilt by the Trump administration towards Pakistan, which has created a lot of bad will, I would say here in Delhi, given the fact that Pakistan supports cross-border terrorism into India. Is it here to stay, or is it just a fleeting thing which is happening in Washington? I think that's a slight misinterpretation by India. I don't think President Trump has tilted towards Pakistan. We have individual relationships with every country in the world. We have an individual relationship with India. We have an individual relationship with Pakistan. I hope, and I can understand why India would view it that way. But I don't really see it as a tilt towards Pakistan. We're trying to manage that relationship as we're trying to build on this relationship. So I don't think India needs to worry about the US abandoning India for Pakistan. That's not where I see this administration headed, even as much as I disagree with the tariffs that they put on Pakistan and everybody else as well. I do understand India got more because of the Russian oil issue, but no, I wouldn't interpret it as a tilt towards Pakistan.

Smith said, “I'm a Democrat from the opposite party. I don't support the President's language. I don't support the tariffs. I understand why he did it. He's focused on trying to bring manufacturing back to the US. I don't agree that that's going to work”.

US Congressman Adam Smith says strong support for India at the US Congress, hopes for trade deal soon

India and the European Union announced the historic "the mother of all deals" on Tuesday (Jan 27). Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in this context that the &nbsp;European delegation's visit to India gave important outcomes. "The outcomes are deeply strategic in nature. Over the last decade, the relations between India and the European Union have grown steadily. They have grown not just in scale but in significance as well, as evidenced by the level and frequency of contacts and engagements between the two sides. In our fast-changing world, the strategic partnership between India and the EU has a value beyond the bilateral context, particularly as we witness shifts in the global economic, technological, and strategic landscape. As the world's second and fourth largest markets, India and the EU also have very high stakes on all critical global challenges of the day, including over-dependence and concentration of global manufacturing and supply chains on a limited set of geographies, an ineffective multilateral system, emerging multipolarity, and growing protectionist tendencies in different parts of the world," the Foreign Secretary said."And therefore, as two large pluralistic democracies and open market economies, our leaders have resolved to take this very strategic partnership forward for mutual benefit and for the greater good of the global population as a whole," he added.He further asserted, "Today, Presidents Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Modi co-chaired the 16th India-EU summit. They held detailed bilateral talks, both in the restricted format and in the delegation-level format. There were several key documents that were signed and exchanged before the leaders, including the joint announcement on the conclusion of the negotiations of a landmark and historic India-EU free trade agreement, an equally important security and defence partnership agreement between the two sides, and an MOU on comprehensive framework on cooperation on mobility, among others. Prime Minister and President von der Leyen also addressed the India-EU Business Forum in Bharat Mandapam, where more than 100 CEOs from both sides participated."Adding to this, he said, "Let me make a few quick points with regard to the outcome of this truly historic visit that is currently underway. The President of the European Council, His Excellencies Antonio Costa, the President of the European Commission, Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen are on a state visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Both the Presidents were jointly Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations yesterday. This is the first time ever that we had the European leaders as guests of honour for our Republic Day."

India and the European Union announced a historic free trade, security, and mobility partnership, calling it the mother of all deals, strengthening strategic ties amid shifting economic and geopolitical landscapes.

India and the European Union announced the historic "the mother of all deals" on Tuesday (Jan 27). Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in this context that the European delegation's visit to India gave important outcomes. "The outcomes are deeply strategic in nature. Over the last decade, the relations between India and the European Union have grown steadily. They have grown not just in scale but in significance as well, as evidenced by the level and frequency of contacts and engagements between the two sides. In our fast-changing world, the strategic partnership between India and the EU has a value beyond the bilateral context, particularly as we witness shifts in the global economic, technological, and strategic landscape. As the world's second and fourth largest markets, India and the EU also have very high stakes on all critical global challenges of the day, including over-dependence and concentration of global manufacturing and supply chains on a limited set of geographies, an ineffective multilateral system, emerging multipolarity, and growing protectionist tendencies in different parts of the world," the Foreign Secretary said. "And therefore, as two large pluralistic democracies and open market economies, our leaders have resolved to take this very strategic partnership forward for mutual benefit and for the greater good of the global population as a whole," he added. He further asserted, "Today, Presidents Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Modi co-chaired the 16th India-EU summit. They held detailed bilateral talks, both in the restricted format and in the delegation-level format. There were several key documents that were signed and exchanged before the leaders, including the joint announcement on the conclusion of the negotiations of a landmark and historic India-EU free trade agreement, an equally important security and defence partnership agreement between the two sides, and an MOU on comprehensive framework on cooperation on mobility, among others. Prime Minister and President von der Leyen also addressed the India-EU Business Forum in Bharat Mandapam, where more than 100 CEOs from both sides participated." Adding to this, he said, "Let me make a few quick points with regard to the outcome of this truly historic visit that is currently underway. The President of the European Council, His Excellencies Antonio Costa, the President of the European Commission, Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen are on a state visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Both the Presidents were jointly Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations yesterday. This is the first time ever that we had the European leaders as guests of honour for our Republic Day."

India and the European Union announced a historic free trade, security, and mobility partnership, calling it the mother of all deals, strengthening strategic ties amid shifting economic and geopolitical landscapes.

‘Strategic partnership for mutual benefit’: Here’s what India’s FS Vikram Misry said on India-EU summit

A federal judge in Minnesota has ordered the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to personally appear in court after the agency failed to comply with a detention order. District Judge Patrick Schiltz directed acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to attend a hearing on Friday (January 30), citing repeated failures by the agency to follow court-mandated timelines for immigration bond hearings.&nbsp;The order stems from a case involving an immigrant detainee who was granted relief on January 14. Under the court’s ruling, the detainee was entitled to a bond hearing within seven days or immediate release. Court filings indicate that as of 23 January, the hearing had not taken place and the individual remained in custody. Judge Schiltz described the situation as part of a broader pattern of noncompliance, noting that ICE has disregarded dozens of court orders in recent weeks. Despite assurances from government attorneys that the agency understood its legal obligations, violations continued, the judge said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-lady-melania-trump-makes-rare-political-statement-as-anti-ice-unrest-grips-minnesota-1769525629288">First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota</a>&nbsp;"The Court’s patience is at an end. Accordingly, the Court will order Todd Lyons, the Acting Director of ICE, to appear personally before the Court and show cause why he should not be held in contempt of Court," Schiltz wrote in his order.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-budget-2026-targets-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges-1769520043238/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-budget-2026-targets-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges-1769520043238/embed</a> Schiltz also criticised ICE for deploying large numbers of agents in Minnesota without allocating resources to handle the surge of legal challenges that followed. Calling the move to summon the agency’s top official “extraordinary,” the judge said prior efforts to secure compliance had failed. Lyons has been ordered to explain why he should not be held in contempt of court.<h2>Several held after protest outside hotel where immigration chief reportedly staying</h2>Police say multiple people were taken into custody after protests erupted outside a Maple Grove hotel where demonstrators believed US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino was staying overnight. The demonstration happened amid heightened tensions after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis by federal agents, and as immigration leadership shifts on the ground. Footage from the protest, held on Monday night at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott northwest of Minneapolis, showed crowds beating drums and holding up signs reading “abolish ICE” as they voiced their anger. Authorities from the Maple Grove Police Department said officers first tried to manage the crowd peacefully, but the situation intensified when objects were thrown, and property was damaged.

'The court's patience is at an end': US judge orders acting ICE director to appear in court

A federal judge in Minnesota has ordered the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to personally appear in court after the agency failed to comply with a detention order. District Judge Patrick Schiltz directed acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to attend a hearing on Friday (January 30), citing repeated failures by the agency to follow court-mandated timelines for immigration bond hearings. The order stems from a case involving an immigrant detainee who was granted relief on January 14. Under the court’s ruling, the detainee was entitled to a bond hearing within seven days or immediate release. Court filings indicate that as of 23 January, the hearing had not taken place and the individual remained in custody. Judge Schiltz described the situation as part of a broader pattern of noncompliance, noting that ICE has disregarded dozens of court orders in recent weeks. Despite assurances from government attorneys that the agency understood its legal obligations, violations continued, the judge said. Also Read: First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota "The Court’s patience is at an end. Accordingly, the Court will order Todd Lyons, the Acting Director of ICE, to appear personally before the Court and show cause why he should not be held in contempt of Court," Schiltz wrote in his order. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-budget-2026-targets-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges-1769520043238/embed Schiltz also criticised ICE for deploying large numbers of agents in Minnesota without allocating resources to handle the surge of legal challenges that followed. Calling the move to summon the agency’s top official “extraordinary,” the judge said prior efforts to secure compliance had failed. Lyons has been ordered to explain why he should not be held in contempt of court. Several held after protest outside hotel where immigration chief reportedly staying Police say multiple people were taken into custody after protests erupted outside a Maple Grove hotel where demonstrators believed US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino was staying overnight. The demonstration happened amid heightened tensions after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis by federal agents, and as immigration leadership shifts on the ground. Footage from the protest, held on Monday night at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott northwest of Minneapolis, showed crowds beating drums and holding up signs reading “abolish ICE” as they voiced their anger. Authorities from the Maple Grove Police Department said officers first tried to manage the crowd peacefully, but the situation intensified when objects were thrown, and property was damaged.

A Minnesota judge has ordered acting ICE director Todd Lyons to court after the agency failed to hold a required bond hearing for a detainee

US First Lady Melania Trump issued a rare political statement amid raging protests in Minneapolis after border patrol agents shot Alex Pretti on January 24. Melania emphasised the need for unity in Minnesota and urged anti-ICE demonstrators to protest peacefully. “We need to unify. I’m calling for unity,” she said in an interview with Fox News.&nbsp;"Please, if we protest in peace and we need to unite in these times, she added.&nbsp;Melania, who usually stays away from political statements, made these remarks as protests against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents sharply escalated over the killing of two US citizens.&nbsp;The First Lady stated her opposition to violence and said President Trump is working closely with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “I know my husband, the President, had a great call yesterday with the governor and the mayor, and they are working together to keep the situation peaceful and prevent riots.”&nbsp;Several cities across Minnesota, especially Minneapolis, erupted in protests after federal agents fatally shot a second individual in less than a month during a high-stakes immigration operation. The victim, 37-year-old intensive care nurse Alex Pretti, was killed on Saturday, January 24, while reportedly attempting to film the federal action and assist a bystander who had been shoved by officers.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-eu-fta-concluded-markets-open-tariffs-cut-services-in-trade-auto-tech-expanded-check-who-gains-what-changes-1769519328417"> India–EU FTA concluded: Markets open, tariffs cut, services in trade, auto &amp; tech expanded; Check who gains &amp; what changes</a>&nbsp;While officials initially claimed Pretti was a "gunman," bystander videos showed him holding a mobile phone before he was wrestled to the ground and shot at point-blank range by Border Patrol agents. Pretti, a hospital nurse and lawful gun owner with a permit to carry, is the second resident killed this month following the shooting of Renée Nicole Good on January 7.<h2>Trump recalls Bovino, Deploys Homan to Minnesota</h2> Amid raging protests and opposition against federal operations in Minnesota, President Donald Trump has effectively sidelined Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander-at-large, who had served as the public face of the aggressive Operation Metro Surge. Following intense backlash over the administration's tactics, Bovino has been ordered to return to his former post in California.&nbsp;In his place, Trump has dispatched White House "border czar" Tom Homan to take direct command of all Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations on the ground. Homan, who will report directly to the President, is tasked with managing federal activities and attempting to de-escalate the volatile standoff in the region.

Melania Trump called for unity and peaceful demonstrations as the White House reshuffles federal leadership.

US First Lady Melania Trump issued a rare political statement amid raging protests in Minneapolis after border patrol agents shot Alex Pretti on January 24. Melania emphasised the need for unity in Minnesota and urged anti-ICE demonstrators to protest peacefully. “We need to unify. I’m calling for unity,” she said in an interview with Fox News. "Please, if we protest in peace and we need to unite in these times, she added. Melania, who usually stays away from political statements, made these remarks as protests against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents sharply escalated over the killing of two US citizens. The First Lady stated her opposition to violence and said President Trump is working closely with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “I know my husband, the President, had a great call yesterday with the governor and the mayor, and they are working together to keep the situation peaceful and prevent riots.” Several cities across Minnesota, especially Minneapolis, erupted in protests after federal agents fatally shot a second individual in less than a month during a high-stakes immigration operation. The victim, 37-year-old intensive care nurse Alex Pretti, was killed on Saturday, January 24, while reportedly attempting to film the federal action and assist a bystander who had been shoved by officers. Also Read: India–EU FTA concluded: Markets open, tariffs cut, services in trade, auto & tech expanded; Check who gains & what changes While officials initially claimed Pretti was a "gunman," bystander videos showed him holding a mobile phone before he was wrestled to the ground and shot at point-blank range by Border Patrol agents. Pretti, a hospital nurse and lawful gun owner with a permit to carry, is the second resident killed this month following the shooting of Renée Nicole Good on January 7. Trump recalls Bovino, Deploys Homan to Minnesota Amid raging protests and opposition against federal operations in Minnesota, President Donald Trump has effectively sidelined Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander-at-large, who had served as the public face of the aggressive Operation Metro Surge. Following intense backlash over the administration's tactics, Bovino has been ordered to return to his former post in California. In his place, Trump has dispatched White House "border czar" Tom Homan to take direct command of all Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations on the ground. Homan, who will report directly to the President, is tasked with managing federal activities and attempting to de-escalate the volatile standoff in the region.

Melania Trump called for unity and peaceful demonstrations as the White House reshuffles federal leadership.

First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota

Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts. Amid the heightened tensions with Washington, these forces, backed by Tehran through funding, training, and materiel, have become central to Iran’s broader geopolitical approach.<h2>Iran's militia strategy - key elements</h2>The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vs-iran-america-offers-15mn-in-reward-for-information-about-the-irgc-s-oil-transfers-details-inside-1769516715631"> US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside</a>&nbsp;In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups.&nbsp;Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.<h2>Iran’s support for Yemen’s Houthis</h2>Iran has been a long-time supporter of the Houthis. The country has helped the group politically, financially, and materially, part of Tehran’s broader regional strategy. As per multiple reports, Iran has provided weapons, missile components, and funding to the Houthis, including facilitating the smuggling of fuel and materiel into Yemen.By backing these groups in Iraq and Yemen, Iran uses them as a counterweight to the US military presence in West Asia by creating asymmetric pressure points.

Iran counters influence amid US-Iran tensions by backing militias in Iraq and Yemen, supporting PMF factions and Houthis with funding and weapons to exert asymmetric pressure across West Asia.



Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts. Amid the heightened tensions with Washington, these forces, backed by Tehran through funding, training, and materiel, have become central to Iran’s broader geopolitical approach. Iran's militia strategy - key elements The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Also read: US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups. Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation. Iran’s support for Yemen’s Houthis Iran has been a long-time supporter of the Houthis. The country has helped the group politically, financially, and materially, part of Tehran’s broader regional strategy. As per multiple reports, Iran has provided weapons, missile components, and funding to the Houthis, including facilitating the smuggling of fuel and materiel into Yemen. By backing these groups in Iraq and Yemen, Iran uses them as a counterweight to the US military presence in West Asia by creating asymmetric pressure points.

Iran counters influence amid US-Iran tensions by backing militias in Iraq and Yemen, supporting PMF factions and Houthis with funding and weapons to exert asymmetric pressure across West Asia.&nbsp;

US vs Iran: How Tehran uses militias in Iraq and Yemen to counter Washington | Iran’s regional strategy explained

Data Privacy Day: It is commemorated annually at the global level on 28 January to raise awareness and promote privacy and data protection best practices. Through this article, let's have a look at the top 7 largest data breaches in history.

Think your data is safe? Top 7 biggest data breaches of all time that exposed billions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen concluded the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (India–EU FTA) at the 16th India–EU Summit on Tuesday. The announcement marks a historic development in India–EU economic relations and trade engagement with important global partners.&nbsp;The FTA concluded with the commitment by India and the European Union to open markets, predictability, and inclusive growth. It comes after years of sustained dialogue and cooperation between India and the EU, which demonstrate the political will and shared vision to deliver a balanced, modern, and rules-based economic and trade partnership.&nbsp;In a press release, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry stated that the India-EU trade pact includes trade in goods, services, trade remedies, rules of origin, customs and trade facilitation, along with the emerging areas such as SMEs and digital trade, amongst others.&nbsp;The India–EU FTA delivers a major push to labour-intensive sectors, including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, marine products, gems and jewellery, handicrafts, engineering goods and automobiles, cutting tariffs of up to 10% to zero on nearly $33 billion worth of exports once the pact takes effect.&nbsp;In automobiles, a carefully structured, quota-based liberalisation will enable EU carmakers to introduce higher-end models in India, while creating scope for Make in India manufacturing and future exports. Indian buyers stand to gain from advanced technology and stronger competition, even as reciprocal access opens doors for India-made vehicles in the EU market.&nbsp;The agreement is set to significantly uplift agriculture and processed foods by ensuring fairer conditions for farmers and agri-businesses. Beyond tariff cuts, it addresses non-tariff barriers through deeper regulatory cooperation, improved transparency, smoother customs processes, and streamlined SPS and technical standards.&nbsp;Under CBAM-related commitments, the deal secures forward-looking MFN assurances, technical cooperation on carbon pricing and verification, and financial and targeted support to help reduce emissions and meet evolving carbon norms.With services forming the fastest-growing segment of both economies, the FTA enhances certainty of access, non-discriminatory treatment, digital trade, and mobility—strengthening prospects for India’s services exports.<h3>Trade talks include sectors like IT, AI &amp; financial services</h3>The FTA locks in broader, commercially meaningful commitments from the EU in sectors where India holds strong advantages, such as IT and IT-enabled services, professional services, education, financial services, tourism, construction, and other business activities.&nbsp;Guaranteed and predictable access to 144 EU subsectors—including IT/ITeS, professional, business and education services—will strengthen Indian service providers’ ability to deliver competitive, world-class offerings to European consumers. In return, EU access to 102 Indian subsectors is expected to attract high-tech services and investment into India, creating a win-win framework.&nbsp;On mobility, the pact establishes a clear and facilitative system for short-term, temporary and business travel in both directions, allowing professionals to move between the two markets to deliver services. Both sides have committed to mobility for intra-corporate transferees and business visitors, along with entry and work rights for their dependents.&nbsp;Additionally, the EU has opened 37 sectors for contractual service suppliers and 17 for independent professionals, including areas of key interest to India such as professional, IT-related, R&amp;D and education services. Now, the FTA promotes cooperation to advance innovation and global-level electronic payments in financial services, while providing India with increased market access across multiple major EU member states. These provisions are likely to deepen financial integration and support the growth of financial services trade.&nbsp;These commitments reinforce India’s position as a global hub for talent, innovation, and sustainable economic growth, along with the unlocking of high-value employment opportunities. The FTA is set to deepen cooperation in strategic fields such as Artificial Intelligence, clean technologies, and semiconductors, supporting India's technological advancement. It is also expected to significantly expand trade, improve export competitiveness, and embed Indian companies more deeply into the European and global value chains. &nbsp;

The FTA concluded with the commitment by India and the European Union to open markets, predictability, and inclusive growth. It comes after years of sustained dialogue and cooperation between India and the EU, which demonstrate the political will and shared vision.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen concluded the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (India–EU FTA) at the 16th India–EU Summit on Tuesday. The announcement marks a historic development in India–EU economic relations and trade engagement with important global partners. The FTA concluded with the commitment by India and the European Union to open markets, predictability, and inclusive growth. It comes after years of sustained dialogue and cooperation between India and the EU, which demonstrate the political will and shared vision to deliver a balanced, modern, and rules-based economic and trade partnership. In a press release, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry stated that the India-EU trade pact includes trade in goods, services, trade remedies, rules of origin, customs and trade facilitation, along with the emerging areas such as SMEs and digital trade, amongst others. The India–EU FTA delivers a major push to labour-intensive sectors, including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, marine products, gems and jewellery, handicrafts, engineering goods and automobiles, cutting tariffs of up to 10% to zero on nearly $33 billion worth of exports once the pact takes effect. In automobiles, a carefully structured, quota-based liberalisation will enable EU carmakers to introduce higher-end models in India, while creating scope for Make in India manufacturing and future exports. Indian buyers stand to gain from advanced technology and stronger competition, even as reciprocal access opens doors for India-made vehicles in the EU market. The agreement is set to significantly uplift agriculture and processed foods by ensuring fairer conditions for farmers and agri-businesses. Beyond tariff cuts, it addresses non-tariff barriers through deeper regulatory cooperation, improved transparency, smoother customs processes, and streamlined SPS and technical standards. Under CBAM-related commitments, the deal secures forward-looking MFN assurances, technical cooperation on carbon pricing and verification, and financial and targeted support to help reduce emissions and meet evolving carbon norms. With services forming the fastest-growing segment of both economies, the FTA enhances certainty of access, non-discriminatory treatment, digital trade, and mobility—strengthening prospects for India’s services exports. Trade talks include sectors like IT, AI & financial services The FTA locks in broader, commercially meaningful commitments from the EU in sectors where India holds strong advantages, such as IT and IT-enabled services, professional services, education, financial services, tourism, construction, and other business activities. Guaranteed and predictable access to 144 EU subsectors—including IT/ITeS, professional, business and education services—will strengthen Indian service providers’ ability to deliver competitive, world-class offerings to European consumers. In return, EU access to 102 Indian subsectors is expected to attract high-tech services and investment into India, creating a win-win framework. On mobility, the pact establishes a clear and facilitative system for short-term, temporary and business travel in both directions, allowing professionals to move between the two markets to deliver services. Both sides have committed to mobility for intra-corporate transferees and business visitors, along with entry and work rights for their dependents. Additionally, the EU has opened 37 sectors for contractual service suppliers and 17 for independent professionals, including areas of key interest to India such as professional, IT-related, R&D and education services. Now, the FTA promotes cooperation to advance innovation and global-level electronic payments in financial services, while providing India with increased market access across multiple major EU member states. These provisions are likely to deepen financial integration and support the growth of financial services trade. These commitments reinforce India’s position as a global hub for talent, innovation, and sustainable economic growth, along with the unlocking of high-value employment opportunities. The FTA is set to deepen cooperation in strategic fields such as Artificial Intelligence, clean technologies, and semiconductors, supporting India's technological advancement. It is also expected to significantly expand trade, improve export competitiveness, and embed Indian companies more deeply into the European and global value chains.

The FTA concluded with the commitment by India and the European Union to open markets, predictability, and inclusive growth. It comes after years of sustained dialogue and cooperation between India and the EU, which demonstrate the political will and shared vision.

India–EU FTA concluded: Markets open, tariffs cut, services in trade, auto & tech expanded; Check who gains & what changes

France's National Assembly passed a bill to bar children under 15 from using social media to protect them from online bullying and mental health impacts. The legislation, which restrict use of mobile phones in high schools, was passed with a vote of 130 to 21 in the lower house after lengthy discussion. However, it will now go to the Senate, France's upper house, ahead of becoming law.&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the cause, flagged social media as a factor to blame for rising violence among young people and cited Australia's example, which became the first country in the world to ban under-16s from using social media platfoms including Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube in December last year.&nbsp;Macron lauded the vote in favour of restriction as a major step towards ensuring protections of French children and teenagers froms ills of social media. &nbsp;"The emotions of our children and teenagers are not for sale or to be manipulated, either by American platforms or Chinese algorithms," he said.&nbsp;With social media becoming ubiquitous, the dangers of too much sceentime hindring development of children and causing mental health issue beame a major concern for parents. France's public health watchdog ANSES claimed that social media such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram are found to have a detrimental effect on adoloscents especially girls. Rising concerns over cyberbullying and exposure to violent content prompted countries across the world to take strict action against social media use, while Australia became the first country to impose a strict ban. Several other nations, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Malaysia, are considering similar restrictions.<h2>Australia: The world-first total ban</h2>Australia’s landmark law officially prohibits anyone under 16 from holding accounts on major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. Since its enforcement began in late 2025, over 4.7 million accounts have already been deactivated. Platforms face massive fines of up to $50 million for failing to take "reasonable steps" to prevent underage access.<h2>United Kingdom: Parliamentary pressure</h2>The UK's House of Lords recently voted in favour of a landmark amendment to ban social media for those under 16. This legislative move complements the government’s active three-month consultation on "phone curfews" and enhanced age-verification standards, signalling a shift toward strict prohibition.<h2>Malaysia and Norway: Strict statutory limits</h2>Malaysia has announced a nationwide ban for children under 16, scheduled for July 2026, utilising government-ID-based digital verification (eKYC). Similarly, Norway recently raised its statutory age limit from 13 to 15, citing the urgent need to protect developing minds from addictive design features and harmful algorithms.<h2>United States (Virginia): The one-hour mandate</h2>While a federal ban remains absent in the U.S., Virginia launched a unique law on January 1, 2026. Rather than an outright ban, it mandates a one-hour daily limit for users under 16, requiring "verifiable parental consent" for any extensions.

President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the cause, flagged social media as a factor to blame for rising violence among young people and cited Australia's example, which became the first country in the world to ban under-16s from using social media.

France's National Assembly passed a bill to bar children under 15 from using social media to protect them from online bullying and mental health impacts. The legislation, which restrict use of mobile phones in high schools, was passed with a vote of 130 to 21 in the lower house after lengthy discussion. However, it will now go to the Senate, France's upper house, ahead of becoming law. President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the cause, flagged social media as a factor to blame for rising violence among young people and cited Australia's example, which became the first country in the world to ban under-16s from using social media platfoms including Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube in December last year. Macron lauded the vote in favour of restriction as a major step towards ensuring protections of French children and teenagers froms ills of social media. "The emotions of our children and teenagers are not for sale or to be manipulated, either by American platforms or Chinese algorithms," he said. With social media becoming ubiquitous, the dangers of too much sceentime hindring development of children and causing mental health issue beame a major concern for parents. France's public health watchdog ANSES claimed that social media such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram are found to have a detrimental effect on adoloscents especially girls. Rising concerns over cyberbullying and exposure to violent content prompted countries across the world to take strict action against social media use, while Australia became the first country to impose a strict ban. Several other nations, including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Malaysia, are considering similar restrictions. Australia: The world-first total ban Australia’s landmark law officially prohibits anyone under 16 from holding accounts on major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. Since its enforcement began in late 2025, over 4.7 million accounts have already been deactivated. Platforms face massive fines of up to $50 million for failing to take "reasonable steps" to prevent underage access. United Kingdom: Parliamentary pressure The UK's House of Lords recently voted in favour of a landmark amendment to ban social media for those under 16. This legislative move complements the government’s active three-month consultation on "phone curfews" and enhanced age-verification standards, signalling a shift toward strict prohibition. Malaysia and Norway: Strict statutory limits Malaysia has announced a nationwide ban for children under 16, scheduled for July 2026, utilising government-ID-based digital verification (eKYC). Similarly, Norway recently raised its statutory age limit from 13 to 15, citing the urgent need to protect developing minds from addictive design features and harmful algorithms. United States (Virginia): The one-hour mandate While a federal ban remains absent in the U.S., Virginia launched a unique law on January 1, 2026. Rather than an outright ban, it mandates a one-hour daily limit for users under 16, requiring "verifiable parental consent" for any extensions.

President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the cause, flagged social media as a factor to blame for rising violence among young people and cited Australia's example, which became the first country in the world to ban under-16s from using social media.

No social media for children: France passes bill to restrict under-15s; know the countries that have banned platforms for kids

According to the US Census Bureau data from January to October 2025, total bilateral trade reached at $4.7 trillion. Here is the list of top 10 bilateral trade partners of the US in 2025.

Who is the biggest trade partner of US- Top 10 trading partner of America in 2025

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are expected to take part in security operations during the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, according to sources at the US Embassy in Rome. The sources on Tuesday (January 27) said that ICE agents will help with protecting US diplomatic officials and will not be involved in immigration enforcement activities while in Italy. As in past Olympic Games, multiple US federal agencies are expected to support diplomatic security, including Homeland Security Investigations, the investigative arm of ICE.&nbsp;Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala sharply criticised the reported involvement, saying ICE agents would not be welcome in the city, which is set to host most of the ice-based Olympic events. “They are not welcome in Milan. Their approach does not reflect our democratic principles for managing security,” Sala was quoted as saying in an interview with RTL Radio 102. Italian authorities initially offered mixed responses following a report by the newspaper il Fatto Quotidiano, which first disclosed ICE’s expected presence.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-the-india-eu-mother-of-all-trade-deal-is-bad-news-for-daddy-trump-1769513199147">Why the India-EU ‘mother of all’ trade deal is bad news for ‘Daddy’ Trump</a>&nbsp;Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi on Saturday (January 24) said that he had not received official confirmation but added that he did not see an issue with their participation, according to ANSA. The confirmation comes amid heightened scrutiny of ICE after Italy’s RAI public broadcaster aired footage Sunday showing ICE agents threatening to smash the window of a RAI vehicle during reporting in Minneapolis.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trial-for-tiananmen-square-underway-activists-charged-with-anti-china-vigil-1769515538517/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trial-for-tiananmen-square-underway-activists-charged-with-anti-china-vigil-1769515538517/embed</a>&nbsp;ICE operations in the city have triggered large demonstrations, and in recent weeks, two protesters opposing deportations and immigration enforcement were fatally shot by federal officers. The White House has announced that Vice President JD Vance will attend the opening ceremony on February 6, leading the US delegation. He will be joined by Second Lady Usha Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

ICE agents to help with security during Milan-Cortina Olympics. Here's what reports say

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are expected to take part in security operations during the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, according to sources at the US Embassy in Rome. The sources on Tuesday (January 27) said that ICE agents will help with protecting US diplomatic officials and will not be involved in immigration enforcement activities while in Italy. As in past Olympic Games, multiple US federal agencies are expected to support diplomatic security, including Homeland Security Investigations, the investigative arm of ICE. Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala sharply criticised the reported involvement, saying ICE agents would not be welcome in the city, which is set to host most of the ice-based Olympic events. “They are not welcome in Milan. Their approach does not reflect our democratic principles for managing security,” Sala was quoted as saying in an interview with RTL Radio 102. Italian authorities initially offered mixed responses following a report by the newspaper il Fatto Quotidiano, which first disclosed ICE’s expected presence. Also Read: Why the India-EU ‘mother of all’ trade deal is bad news for ‘Daddy’ Trump Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi on Saturday (January 24) said that he had not received official confirmation but added that he did not see an issue with their participation, according to ANSA. The confirmation comes amid heightened scrutiny of ICE after Italy’s RAI public broadcaster aired footage Sunday showing ICE agents threatening to smash the window of a RAI vehicle during reporting in Minneapolis. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trial-for-tiananmen-square-underway-activists-charged-with-anti-china-vigil-1769515538517/embed ICE operations in the city have triggered large demonstrations, and in recent weeks, two protesters opposing deportations and immigration enforcement were fatally shot by federal officers. The White House has announced that Vice President JD Vance will attend the opening ceremony on February 6, leading the US delegation. He will be joined by Second Lady Usha Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

ICE agents will help with security at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics, prompting backlash from Milan’s mayor and debate among Italian officials

Amid the diplomatic tensions between America and Iran, the US Department of State has announced a reward of up to $15 million for any information that leads to the identification of entities or individuals involved in oil sales conducted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) generates revenue for its terrorist activities through various illegal activities, including the sale and transfer of Iranian oil, which is sanctioned," says the graphic shared by the official US government account on X."If you have information about the IRGC's oil transfers, tankers, or entities associated with such illegal activities, please contact us. Your information could qualify you for a reward or transfer," the post read.Apart from the image, the Rewards for Justice account said, "the IRGC targets the people of Iran in their own homeland and others abroad with its violence," while pleading, "Help us stop this terrorist group."This came after the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed fresh sanctions against the Iran-linked vessels and entities on Saturday (Jan 24). "OFAC is targeting nine vessels from the shadow fleet, along with their owners or related management companies, which have collectively transferred hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of Iranian oil and petrochemical products to foreign markets," read a statement released by the US State Department's Farsi-language account.Meanwhile, Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he would urge the European Union to list &nbsp;Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. “The losses suffered by the civilian population during the protests require a clear response,” he wrote on X. In response, Iran summoned the minister for what Tehran described as "irresponsible remarks by Italy’s foreign minister" about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.After the summons, the foreign ministry’s director general for Western Europe warned of what he described as damaging consequences of labelling the Revolutionary Guards and urged Italy to revise what he called ill-considered approaches toward Iran, the reports said.

The US has announced a $15 million reward for information on IRGC-linked oil sales, following fresh OFAC sanctions targeting Iran’s shadow fleet amid rising US–Iran tensions.

Amid the diplomatic tensions between America and Iran, the US Department of State has announced a reward of up to $15 million for any information that leads to the identification of entities or individuals involved in oil sales conducted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) generates revenue for its terrorist activities through various illegal activities, including the sale and transfer of Iranian oil, which is sanctioned," says the graphic shared by the official US government account on X. "If you have information about the IRGC's oil transfers, tankers, or entities associated with such illegal activities, please contact us. Your information could qualify you for a reward or transfer," the post read. Apart from the image, the Rewards for Justice account said, "the IRGC targets the people of Iran in their own homeland and others abroad with its violence," while pleading, "Help us stop this terrorist group." This came after the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed fresh sanctions against the Iran-linked vessels and entities on Saturday (Jan 24). "OFAC is targeting nine vessels from the shadow fleet, along with their owners or related management companies, which have collectively transferred hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of Iranian oil and petrochemical products to foreign markets," read a statement released by the US State Department's Farsi-language account. Meanwhile, Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he would urge the European Union to list Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. “The losses suffered by the civilian population during the protests require a clear response,” he wrote on X. In response, Iran summoned the minister for what Tehran described as "irresponsible remarks by Italy’s foreign minister" about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. After the summons, the foreign ministry’s director general for Western Europe warned of what he described as damaging consequences of labelling the Revolutionary Guards and urged Italy to revise what he called ill-considered approaches toward Iran, the reports said.

The US has announced a $15 million reward for information on IRGC-linked oil sales, following fresh OFAC sanctions targeting Iran’s shadow fleet amid rising US–Iran tensions.

US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside

India and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday (January 27) unveiled what officials are calling a landmark free trade agreement, one that is unlikely to sit well with US President Donald Trump. The deal brings together a bloc Trump has repeatedly criticised and pressured, and a country he has sought to strong-arm with steep tariffs. Trump, who has openly mocked Europe and clashed with it over issues ranging from defence spending to his controversial Greenland ambitions, is also locked in a tense trade standoff with India.&nbsp;Compounding Trump’s irritation, the European Union has also paused progress on its own trade agreement with the United States. The symbolism is hard to miss: Europe and India, both targets of Trump’s tariff threats, have instead chosen to deepen ties with each other.&nbsp;Signs of Washington’s discomfort surfaced on Monday when US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused Europe of indirectly financing the Russia-Ukraine war by importing energy routed through India. Speaking to ABC News, Bessent pointed out that the US had imposed 25% tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, only for Europe to finalise a trade pact with New Delhi days later.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-loyal-till-the-end-pitbull-guards-teen-s-body-for-four-days-in-himachal-snow-1769510488560">WATCH | Loyal till the end: Pitbull guards teen’s body for four days in Himachal snow</a>&nbsp;What Bessent did not acknowledge is that Trump’s own trade tactics may have accelerated the deal. Negotiations between India and the EU have dragged on for nearly two decades. It was the growing uncertainty created by US tariffs, export controls, and diplomatic friction that finally pushed both sides to close ranks. Prime Minister Modi alluded to this global disruption while announcing the agreement. Without naming Trump, he noted that the international order was in flux and that the India-EU deal could help bring stability.<h2>How Trump’s pressure backfired</h2>India is currently facing combined US tariffs of 50%—25% under reciprocal measures and another 25% linked to Russian oil imports. Over the past year, Trump and his allies have repeatedly criticised India, branding it a conduit for Moscow and even framing the Ukraine conflict as “Modi’s war.” The pressure was aimed at forcing India into a trade deal tilted heavily in America’s favour.&nbsp;New Delhi, however, chose restraint over retaliation. While refusing to bow to US demands, India avoided direct attacks on Trump himself. Europe’s experience has been similar. Trump’s aggressive rhetoric, threats of additional tariffs, and anger over EU resistance to his Greenland proposal have strained transatlantic ties. In response, Brussels shelved its trade talks with Washington, while several European countries declined to participate in Trump-backed diplomatic initiatives in West Asia.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-confirms-trump-s-diplomatic-push-amid-europe-russia-tensions-1769512874157/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-confirms-trump-s-diplomatic-push-amid-europe-russia-tensions-1769512874157/embed</a><h2>Why the India-EU deal matters?</h2>For India, the agreement sends a clear message: it will not negotiate under duress. In recent months, New Delhi has concluded trade deals with the UK, New Zealand, and Oman, reinforcing its intent to diversify partnerships. India’s negotiating stance reflects an understanding that Trump responds to leverage, not submission. Unlike Canada, where trade talks with China were frozen after Trump threatened 100% tariffs, India has stayed the course.&nbsp;The EU, for its part, accommodated India’s long-standing sensitivities by excluding agriculture and dairy from the pact, safeguarding Indian farmers. This stands in contrast to US demands for deep access to these politically sensitive sectors. While European leaders have expressed unease over India’s ties with Russia, they have largely avoided public ultimatums or sanctions. That tone helped keep negotiations on track.&nbsp;India, now the world’s fourth-largest economy, offers Europe a vast and steadily expanding market. Despite occasional disagreements, New Delhi has refrained from publicly pressuring or embarrassing Brussels—an approach that paid dividends. The agreement, set to take effect next year, promises significant gains on both sides. Indian exporters in labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, chemicals, gems, and jewellery, hit hard by US tariffs, will gain preferential or duty-free access to European markets.&nbsp;The EU is already India’s largest trading partner. Under the FTA, duties will be eliminated on more than 90% of traded goods, while services sectors like telecom and accounting will see reduced barriers. Europe also stands to benefit from India’s decision to slash tariffs on imported EU cars to 40%, down from levels as high as 110%. This opens the door wider for manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW in the world’s third-largest automobile market by volume.

Why the India-EU ‘mother of all’ trade deal is bad news for US President Donald Trump

India and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday (January 27) unveiled what officials are calling a landmark free trade agreement, one that is unlikely to sit well with US President Donald Trump. The deal brings together a bloc Trump has repeatedly criticised and pressured, and a country he has sought to strong-arm with steep tariffs. Trump, who has openly mocked Europe and clashed with it over issues ranging from defence spending to his controversial Greenland ambitions, is also locked in a tense trade standoff with India. Compounding Trump’s irritation, the European Union has also paused progress on its own trade agreement with the United States. The symbolism is hard to miss: Europe and India, both targets of Trump’s tariff threats, have instead chosen to deepen ties with each other. Signs of Washington’s discomfort surfaced on Monday when US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused Europe of indirectly financing the Russia-Ukraine war by importing energy routed through India. Speaking to ABC News, Bessent pointed out that the US had imposed 25% tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, only for Europe to finalise a trade pact with New Delhi days later. Also Read: WATCH | Loyal till the end: Pitbull guards teen’s body for four days in Himachal snow What Bessent did not acknowledge is that Trump’s own trade tactics may have accelerated the deal. Negotiations between India and the EU have dragged on for nearly two decades. It was the growing uncertainty created by US tariffs, export controls, and diplomatic friction that finally pushed both sides to close ranks. Prime Minister Modi alluded to this global disruption while announcing the agreement. Without naming Trump, he noted that the international order was in flux and that the India-EU deal could help bring stability. How Trump’s pressure backfired India is currently facing combined US tariffs of 50%—25% under reciprocal measures and another 25% linked to Russian oil imports. Over the past year, Trump and his allies have repeatedly criticised India, branding it a conduit for Moscow and even framing the Ukraine conflict as “Modi’s war.” The pressure was aimed at forcing India into a trade deal tilted heavily in America’s favour. New Delhi, however, chose restraint over retaliation. While refusing to bow to US demands, India avoided direct attacks on Trump himself. Europe’s experience has been similar. Trump’s aggressive rhetoric, threats of additional tariffs, and anger over EU resistance to his Greenland proposal have strained transatlantic ties. In response, Brussels shelved its trade talks with Washington, while several European countries declined to participate in Trump-backed diplomatic initiatives in West Asia. https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-confirms-trump-s-diplomatic-push-amid-europe-russia-tensions-1769512874157/embed Why the India-EU deal matters? For India, the agreement sends a clear message: it will not negotiate under duress. In recent months, New Delhi has concluded trade deals with the UK, New Zealand, and Oman, reinforcing its intent to diversify partnerships. India’s negotiating stance reflects an understanding that Trump responds to leverage, not submission. Unlike Canada, where trade talks with China were frozen after Trump threatened 100% tariffs, India has stayed the course. The EU, for its part, accommodated India’s long-standing sensitivities by excluding agriculture and dairy from the pact, safeguarding Indian farmers. This stands in contrast to US demands for deep access to these politically sensitive sectors. While European leaders have expressed unease over India’s ties with Russia, they have largely avoided public ultimatums or sanctions. That tone helped keep negotiations on track. India, now the world’s fourth-largest economy, offers Europe a vast and steadily expanding market. Despite occasional disagreements, New Delhi has refrained from publicly pressuring or embarrassing Brussels—an approach that paid dividends. The agreement, set to take effect next year, promises significant gains on both sides. Indian exporters in labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, chemicals, gems, and jewellery, hit hard by US tariffs, will gain preferential or duty-free access to European markets. The EU is already India’s largest trading partner. Under the FTA, duties will be eliminated on more than 90% of traded goods, while services sectors like telecom and accounting will see reduced barriers. Europe also stands to benefit from India’s decision to slash tariffs on imported EU cars to 40%, down from levels as high as 110%. This opens the door wider for manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW in the world’s third-largest automobile market by volume.

India and the EU finalise a major trade deal, easing tariffs and deepening ties as both seek stability amid US pressure and Trump’s trade confrontations

Several airports across parts of Asia are on high alert after the Nipah virus outbreak was reported in West Bengal, prompting tightened health surveillance and travel screening. The step was taken mostly by Thailand, Nepal and Taiwan for the precautionary measures after five cases of Nipah virus were confirmed in Bengal. Out of five cases, at least two cases of Nipah virus have been confirmed. Meanwhile, stringent measures were seen in the last few weeks against a possible Nipah virus outbreak, especially in the neighbouring state of Odisha and in Kerala, according to a report in the ET. In response to the alert, the public health minister of Thailand heightened the screening process at major airports for passengers arriving from West Bengal. The move taken by the government aims to detect infected passengers at the initial stage, support rapid isolation if needed and reduce the risk of cross-border spread. At Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket airports, travellers are being screened for fever and related symptoms, The Independent reported. Airport authorities are also distributing health “beware” cards that advise passengers on steps to take if they develop symptoms after possible exposure.<h3>The guidelines for passengers after the Nipah virus outbreak include:</h3><ul><li>Temperature screening and mandatory health declaration forms on arrival</li><li>Preliminary health checks by airlines before boarding</li><li>Secondary assessment or isolation for travellers showing symptoms or fever</li><li>Issuance of “Health Beware Cards” outlining warning signs and recommended actions</li></ul>Officials have stepped up sanitation and disease-control readiness at Phuket International Airport as part of preventive efforts. “Thailand's Department of Disease Control screens travellers from West Bengal, India at Suvarnabhumi &amp; Don Mueang airports starting 25 January amid Nipah virus outbreak. Health officials implement strict measures as passengers show excellent cooperation at checkpoints,” the Thai government said. According to local media, travellers arriving with high fever or symptoms suggestive of Nipah infection will be moved to quarantine facilities. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has also directed to enhance screening at caves and natural tourist sites across Thailand, citing concerns over the outbreak in India, and urged tourists to follow the strict advisory: “Don’t hunt, don’t forage, don’t eat.”&nbsp;

Thailand's public health minister heightened the screening process at major airports for passengers arriving from West Bengal. The government's moves aim to detect infected passengers at the initial stage, support rapid isolation if needed and reduce the risk of cross-border spread.

Several airports across parts of Asia are on high alert after the Nipah virus outbreak was reported in West Bengal, prompting tightened health surveillance and travel screening. The step was taken mostly by Thailand, Nepal and Taiwan for the precautionary measures after five cases of Nipah virus were confirmed in Bengal. Out of five cases, at least two cases of Nipah virus have been confirmed. Meanwhile, stringent measures were seen in the last few weeks against a possible Nipah virus outbreak, especially in the neighbouring state of Odisha and in Kerala, according to a report in the ET. In response to the alert, the public health minister of Thailand heightened the screening process at major airports for passengers arriving from West Bengal. The move taken by the government aims to detect infected passengers at the initial stage, support rapid isolation if needed and reduce the risk of cross-border spread. At Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket airports, travellers are being screened for fever and related symptoms, The Independent reported. Airport authorities are also distributing health “beware” cards that advise passengers on steps to take if they develop symptoms after possible exposure. The guidelines for passengers after the Nipah virus outbreak include: Temperature screening and mandatory health declaration forms on arrival Preliminary health checks by airlines before boarding Secondary assessment or isolation for travellers showing symptoms or fever Issuance of “Health Beware Cards” outlining warning signs and recommended actions Officials have stepped up sanitation and disease-control readiness at Phuket International Airport as part of preventive efforts. “Thailand's Department of Disease Control screens travellers from West Bengal, India at Suvarnabhumi & Don Mueang airports starting 25 January amid Nipah virus outbreak. Health officials implement strict measures as passengers show excellent cooperation at checkpoints,” the Thai government said. According to local media, travellers arriving with high fever or symptoms suggestive of Nipah infection will be moved to quarantine facilities. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has also directed to enhance screening at caves and natural tourist sites across Thailand, citing concerns over the outbreak in India, and urged tourists to follow the strict advisory: “Don’t hunt, don’t forage, don’t eat.”

Thailand's public health minister heightened the screening process at major airports for passengers arriving from West Bengal. The government's moves aim to detect infected passengers at the initial stage, support rapid isolation if needed and reduce the risk of cross-border spread.

Nipah alert: THESE nations roll out Covid-style screening after Bengal outbreak—Check what travelers must know

Canada and India will commit to expanding their trade in oil and gas as both countries look to deepen their relationship after friction between the two sides led to a diplomatic freeze for more than a year. The Canadian side will pledge to ship higher volumes of crude oil, liquefied natural gas and liquified petroleum gas to India, while New Delhi will export more refined petroleum products to Canada, Bloomberg News reported.&nbsp;These commitments by both sides will be followed by a meeting between Canadian Energy Minister Tim Hodgson and Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, according to a joint statement seen by Bloomberg News.&nbsp;The ministers are set to meet at India Energy Week in Goa on Tuesday and are expected to release a "ministerial energy dialogue." The forum once served as a key platform for energy cooperation between the two countries, but lost its relevance after tensions between the two countries escalated over the killing of a Canadian Sikh activist.&nbsp;The developments come in the backdrop of President Donald Trump's animosity towards Canada and threats to sharply raise tariffs, prompting Ottawa to look for partners beyond the United States. Under these circumstances, Canada seems to pursue its ties with India as a key strategic and economic partnership in a shift from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's approach, which looked at New Delhi as a rival and took actions which led to deterioration in ties between both countries.&nbsp;Canada, under PM Mark Carney itendes to diversify its trade to reduce its dependence on the United States to protect its sovereignty from President Trump's territorial ambitions and Coercive economic policies targeting North American allies.<h2>Carney to visit India</h2>As part of the new approach, Canada improved its relationship with India in the recent past, and to further deepen ties with New Delhi, Carney is expected to visit the country and hold talks with PM Narendra Modi. The Canadian PM is likely to visit New Delhi after India presents its Union Budget in parliament on February 1, according to Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Patnaik. Both countries are expected to ink agreements on deepening its partenership in trade, minerals, Uranium, and artificial intelligence.

The relationship between India and Canada has witnessed a significant thaw under Prime Minister Mark Carney. This shift is part of his strategy to diversify trade and reduce dependence on the United States amid economic uncertainties caused by the Trump administration.

Canada and India will commit to expanding their trade in oil and gas as both countries look to deepen their relationship after friction between the two sides led to a diplomatic freeze for more than a year. The Canadian side will pledge to ship higher volumes of crude oil, liquefied natural gas and liquified petroleum gas to India, while New Delhi will export more refined petroleum products to Canada, Bloomberg News reported. These commitments by both sides will be followed by a meeting between Canadian Energy Minister Tim Hodgson and Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, according to a joint statement seen by Bloomberg News. The ministers are set to meet at India Energy Week in Goa on Tuesday and are expected to release a "ministerial energy dialogue." The forum once served as a key platform for energy cooperation between the two countries, but lost its relevance after tensions between the two countries escalated over the killing of a Canadian Sikh activist. The developments come in the backdrop of President Donald Trump's animosity towards Canada and threats to sharply raise tariffs, prompting Ottawa to look for partners beyond the United States. Under these circumstances, Canada seems to pursue its ties with India as a key strategic and economic partnership in a shift from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's approach, which looked at New Delhi as a rival and took actions which led to deterioration in ties between both countries. Canada, under PM Mark Carney itendes to diversify its trade to reduce its dependence on the United States to protect its sovereignty from President Trump's territorial ambitions and Coercive economic policies targeting North American allies. Carney to visit India As part of the new approach, Canada improved its relationship with India in the recent past, and to further deepen ties with New Delhi, Carney is expected to visit the country and hold talks with PM Narendra Modi. The Canadian PM is likely to visit New Delhi after India presents its Union Budget in parliament on February 1, according to Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Patnaik. Both countries are expected to ink agreements on deepening its partenership in trade, minerals, Uranium, and artificial intelligence.

The relationship between India and Canada has witnessed a significant thaw under Prime Minister Mark Carney. This shift is part of his strategy to diversify trade and reduce dependence on the United States amid economic uncertainties caused by the Trump administration.

Canada, India pledge to expand oil and petroleum trade ahead of Mark Carney’s New Delhi visit

US President Donald Trump’s niece has made a shocking claim, suggesting her uncle could be suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Mary Trump, who often criticises her uncle, revealed that Trump often has a “deer-in-the-headlights” expression that reminds her of Trump’s father, who had Alzheimer’s. This comes amid frequent questions over the US president’s health.Fred Trump, Trump’s father, struggled with the degenerative disease before he died at the age of 93 in 1999.“Sometimes it does not seem like he’s oriented to time and place,” Mary Trump, 60, told New York Magazine of her uncle. “And on occasion, I do see that deer-in-the-headlights look.”Trump, 79, himself also addressed his father’s condition in an interview with the outlet. While speaking about it, he ironically forgot the word for Alzheimer’s and had to turn to his press secretary Karoline Leavitt for help.He said, “He had one problem. At a certain age, about 86, 87, he started getting, what do they call it?”“Alzheimer’s,” Leavitt said.“Like an Alzheimer’s thing,” Trump said. “Well, I don’t have it... I don’t think about it at all. You know why? Because whatever it is, my attitude is whatever.”“Genetically, I’m in great shape,” he added. “My mother and her family lived very long, well into their 90s. No heart disease in my family. No this, no that.""I have this friend whose mother died at 49 of a heart attack. His father died at 51 of a heart attack. He’s now 60. I said, ‘You’re f---ed,’ " Trump added. “He watches everything he eats. But you can’t beat genetics.”Trump has frequently faced questions about his health. He is often seen with bruising on his hand, which he said was a result of the 325 milligrams of aspirin he takes daily. He said that while his doctors do not approve of the dosage, he told the outlet, “but it works for me”.“I’ve been doing it for 30 years, and I don’t want to change,” he said. “You know what? You’re in the Oval Office now, right? I don’t want to change a thing.”

Donald Trump’s niece Mary Trump suggested he may be showing signs reminiscent of Alzheimer’s, citing disorientation and a “deer-in-the-headlights” look. Trump denied concerns, citing genetics and health, despite forgetting the term during an interview.

US President Donald Trump’s niece has made a shocking claim, suggesting her uncle could be suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Mary Trump, who often criticises her uncle, revealed that Trump often has a “deer-in-the-headlights” expression that reminds her of Trump’s father, who had Alzheimer’s. This comes amid frequent questions over the US president’s health. Fred Trump, Trump’s father, struggled with the degenerative disease before he died at the age of 93 in 1999. “Sometimes it does not seem like he’s oriented to time and place,” Mary Trump, 60, told New York Magazine of her uncle. “And on occasion, I do see that deer-in-the-headlights look.” Trump, 79, himself also addressed his father’s condition in an interview with the outlet. While speaking about it, he ironically forgot the word for Alzheimer’s and had to turn to his press secretary Karoline Leavitt for help. He said, “He had one problem. At a certain age, about 86, 87, he started getting, what do they call it?” “Alzheimer’s,” Leavitt said. “Like an Alzheimer’s thing,” Trump said. “Well, I don’t have it... I don’t think about it at all. You know why? Because whatever it is, my attitude is whatever.” “Genetically, I’m in great shape,” he added. “My mother and her family lived very long, well into their 90s. No heart disease in my family. No this, no that." "I have this friend whose mother died at 49 of a heart attack. His father died at 51 of a heart attack. He’s now 60. I said, ‘You’re f---ed,’ " Trump added. “He watches everything he eats. But you can’t beat genetics.” Trump has frequently faced questions about his health. He is often seen with bruising on his hand, which he said was a result of the 325 milligrams of aspirin he takes daily. He said that while his doctors do not approve of the dosage, he told the outlet, “but it works for me”. “I’ve been doing it for 30 years, and I don’t want to change,” he said. “You know what? You’re in the Oval Office now, right? I don’t want to change a thing.”

Donald Trump’s niece, Mary Trump, suggested he may be showing signs reminiscent of Alzheimer’s, citing disorientation and a “deer-in-the-headlights” look. Trump denied concerns, citing genetics and health, despite forgetting the term during an interview.

Does Trump have Alzheimer’s? His niece reveals as POTUS ironically forgets the word for it

European Council President Antonio Costa on Tuesday (Jan 27) proudly stated his Indian heritage after the European Union signed a comprehensive trade agreement with New Delhi. Addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Costa showed his overseas Indian card and highlighted how the conclusion of negotiation are significant for him.&nbsp;"I'm the President of the European Council, but I'm also an overseas Indian citizen. Then, as you can imagine, for me it has a special meaning," he said.&nbsp;"As the two largest democracies in the world, we are working hand in hand to deliver concrete benefits for our citizens and to shape a resilient global order that underpins peace and stability, economic growth and sustainable development," Costa added.<h2>Costa's Goan roots</h2>Costa spoke proudly of his Indian heritage and revealed his special bond with the country: "I'm very proud of my roots in Goa, where my father's family came from, and the connection between Europe and India is something personal to me."Costa's father, Orlando da Costa, was a renowned writer whose family originally hailed from Margão in Goa, then a Portuguese territory. His paternal grandfather was born in Goa.<h2>Journey to the President of the European Council</h2>Born in Lisbon in 1961, Antonio Costa’s journey to becoming President of the European Council is a compelling story shaped by public service and his Goan roots. &nbsp;Trained as a lawyer, Costa entered politics early and steadily rose through Portugal’s ranks, serving as a parliamentarian, minister, and later Mayor of Lisbon, where his inclusive style earned wide recognition.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-blueprint-for-shared-prosperity-how-india-eu-fta-redefines-defence-and-security-cooperation-1769501459135">‘Blueprint for shared prosperity’: How India-EU FTA redefines defence and security cooperation</a>&nbsp;In 2015, he became Prime Minister of Portugal, leading the country through economic recovery and social reforms while strengthening Portugal’s standing in Europe. His consensus-building skills and diplomatic experience eventually propelled him to the European stage. In 2024, EU leaders chose Costa as European Council President, a role he assumed in December. Throughout his career, Costa has openly acknowledged his Indian heritage, often describing his Goan roots as a personal bridge between Europe and India.

Before becoming president of the European Council, Antonio Costa served as Prime Minister of Portugal.

European Council President Antonio Costa on Tuesday (Jan 27) proudly stated his Indian heritage after the European Union signed a comprehensive trade agreement with New Delhi. Addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Costa showed his overseas Indian card and highlighted how the conclusion of negotiation are significant for him. "I'm the President of the European Council, but I'm also an overseas Indian citizen. Then, as you can imagine, for me it has a special meaning," he said. "As the two largest democracies in the world, we are working hand in hand to deliver concrete benefits for our citizens and to shape a resilient global order that underpins peace and stability, economic growth and sustainable development," Costa added. Costa's Goan roots Costa spoke proudly of his Indian heritage and revealed his special bond with the country: "I'm very proud of my roots in Goa, where my father's family came from, and the connection between Europe and India is something personal to me." Costa's father, Orlando da Costa, was a renowned writer whose family originally hailed from Margão in Goa, then a Portuguese territory. His paternal grandfather was born in Goa. Journey to the President of the European Council Born in Lisbon in 1961, Antonio Costa’s journey to becoming President of the European Council is a compelling story shaped by public service and his Goan roots. Trained as a lawyer, Costa entered politics early and steadily rose through Portugal’s ranks, serving as a parliamentarian, minister, and later Mayor of Lisbon, where his inclusive style earned wide recognition. Also Read: ‘Blueprint for shared prosperity’: How India-EU FTA redefines defence and security cooperation In 2015, he became Prime Minister of Portugal, leading the country through economic recovery and social reforms while strengthening Portugal’s standing in Europe. His consensus-building skills and diplomatic experience eventually propelled him to the European stage. In 2024, EU leaders chose Costa as European Council President, a role he assumed in December. Throughout his career, Costa has openly acknowledged his Indian heritage, often describing his Goan roots as a personal bridge between Europe and India.

Before becoming president of the European Council, Antonio Costa served as Prime Minister of Portugal.

'I am an overseas Indian citizen': Know European Council President Antonio Costa's India connection

Chinese hackers breached the mobile phones of senior officials at “the heart of Downing Street” for several years as part of a global cyber-espionage campaign that targeted telecommunication networks, reports suggested. The state-sponsored hackers are known to have gained access to phones of some of the closest aides of the former prime ministers, including Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, between 2021 and 2024. The report comes at a time when British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting China this week to secure trade and investment ties with Beijing.The Telegraph reported that while it is unclear whether the compromised mobile phones included those of the prime ministers themselves, one source with knowledge of the breach said it went “right into the heart of Downing Street”.According to intelligence sources, the Chinese espionage operation, known as Salt Typhoon, was ongoing and raises the possibility that Starmer and his close aides may also have been exposed to the breach. Earlier in November, the MI5 issued an “espionage alert” to Parliament due to the threat of spying from China.The Telegraph reported that the hackers also had the ability to “record phone calls at will”, according to Anne Neuberger, who was a deputy US national security adviser between January 2021 and January 2025.“Chinese gained access to networks and essentially had broad and full access,” Neuberger said, adding that this gave them the capability to “geolocate millions of individuals, to record phone calls at will.”China’s Foreign Ministry had earlier rejected the claims, calling them “baseless” and “lacking evidence”.In 2024, US officials first alerted their allies that hacking groups had gained access to telecom companies across the world, Associated Press reported. The campaign reportedly targeted several countries, including the US, and other member nations of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance – Australia, Canada and New Zealand.“The malicious activity outlined in the advisory partially overlaps with cybersecurity industry reporting on Chinese state-sponsored threat actors referred to by names such as Salt Typhoon,” an NSA release said.Yuval Wollman, former Israeli intelligence chief, told The Telegraph that Salt Typhoon was “one of the most prominent names” in the cyber-espionage world.“While much of the public reporting has focused on US targets, Salt Typhoon’s operations have extended into Europe, the Middle East and Africa, where it has targeted telecoms firms, government entities and technology companies,” Wollman of cybersecurity platform CyberProof added.

Chinese state hackers linked to “Salt Typhoon” allegedly breached phones of top UK officials’ aides from 2021–24, accessing telecom networks and calls.

Chinese hackers breached the mobile phones of senior officials at “the heart of Downing Street” for several years as part of a global cyber-espionage campaign that targeted telecommunication networks, reports suggested. The state-sponsored hackers are known to have gained access to phones of some of the closest aides of the former prime ministers, including Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, between 2021 and 2024. The report comes at a time when British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting China this week to secure trade and investment ties with Beijing. The Telegraph reported that while it is unclear whether the compromised mobile phones included those of the prime ministers themselves, one source with knowledge of the breach said it went “right into the heart of Downing Street”. According to intelligence sources, the Chinese espionage operation, known as Salt Typhoon, was ongoing and raises the possibility that Starmer and his close aides may also have been exposed to the breach. Earlier in November, the MI5 issued an “espionage alert” to Parliament due to the threat of spying from China. The Telegraph reported that the hackers also had the ability to “record phone calls at will”, according to Anne Neuberger, who was a deputy US national security adviser between January 2021 and January 2025. “Chinese gained access to networks and essentially had broad and full access,” Neuberger said, adding that this gave them the capability to “geolocate millions of individuals, to record phone calls at will.” China’s Foreign Ministry had earlier rejected the claims, calling them “baseless” and “lacking evidence”. In 2024, US officials first alerted their allies that hacking groups had gained access to telecom companies across the world, Associated Press reported. The campaign reportedly targeted several countries, including the US, and other member nations of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance – Australia, Canada and New Zealand. “The malicious activity outlined in the advisory partially overlaps with cybersecurity industry reporting on Chinese state-sponsored threat actors referred to by names such as Salt Typhoon,” an NSA release said. Yuval Wollman, former Israeli intelligence chief, told The Telegraph that Salt Typhoon was “one of the most prominent names” in the cyber-espionage world. “While much of the public reporting has focused on US targets, Salt Typhoon’s operations have extended into Europe, the Middle East and Africa, where it has targeted telecoms firms, government entities and technology companies,” Wollman of cybersecurity platform CyberProof added.

Chinese state hackers linked to “Salt Typhoon” allegedly breached phones of top UK officials’ aides from 2021–24, accessing telecom networks and calls.

‘Heart of Downing Street’ breached? Reports expose Chinese hackers targeted top British officials’ phones

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‘Heart of Downing Street’ breached? Chinese hackers targeted top UK officials