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Amazon has confirmed an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) at its Coventry fulfilment centre in the UK. It is a bacterial infection often labelled a 'Victorian disease'. The GMB union has flagged concerns over multiple TB cases at the site, which employs nearly 3,000 employees, urging authorities to temporarily shut down the warehouse.&nbsp;According to a report by the BBC, the company confirmed that 10 cases of non-contagious TB were detected in September, and said it is coordinating with the National Health Service (NHS) on a screening program.<h3>What is the 'Victorian disease'?</h3>Tuberculosis, also called Victoria's disease, can lead to death of the people if left untreated. When people get infected with the disease, it usually affects the lungs; however, it can also affect the abdomen, lymph nodes, nervous system and bones, damaging the nervous system on the right side of the body.&nbsp;Sometimes, the nerve damage prompt insufficient oxygen supply to the brain, causing numbness in parts of the body. As a result, the hands can go completely numb, making the nerves feel like they are stinging. During this, people may feel pins and needles on the right side of the body, causing pain up to the neck. This shows that the disease primarily affects the lungs, but also the abdomen, bones and nervous system.<h3>Symptoms:</h3><ul><li>Needling of the body</li><li>Body tingling</li><li>Drowsiness in the body</li><li>Numbness in the hands</li><li>Severe pain</li><li>Loss of mobility</li><li>Muscle contraction</li><li>Jaw locking</li></ul>Based on the report released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on tuberculosis, the disease has claimed the lives of more than 1.6 million people in 2021, making TB the second leading infectious disease after COVID-19.<h3>No further cases at the Coventry fulfilment centre</h3>Meanwhile, Amazon added that no further cases have since been found, and operations at the site are still being continued to run as usual while precautionary screening is underway amid an abundance of caution. "In line with best practice safety procedures, we immediately followed guidance from the NHS and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and made all potentially affected employees aware of the situation. We will continue to follow guidance from the experts in the NHS and would respectfully remind public organisations of the need for responsible communications where matters of public well-being are concerned," the spokesperson said, BBC reported.&nbsp;Amazon said the cases, identified in 2025, were non-contagious and that it is working alongside the NHS and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to expand screening measures. Dr Roger Gajraj of UKHSA West Midlands said tests are being offered to employees who may have had close contact with those affected. He added that the overall risk is low and that TB is fully treatable with antibiotics.

Amazon has confirmed that 10 cases of non-contagious TB were detected in September, and said it is coordinating with the National Health Service (NHS) on a screening program. 

Amazon has confirmed an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) at its Coventry fulfilment centre in the UK. It is a bacterial infection often labelled a 'Victorian disease'. The GMB union has flagged concerns over multiple TB cases at the site, which employs nearly 3,000 employees, urging authorities to temporarily shut down the warehouse. According to a report by the BBC, the company confirmed that 10 cases of non-contagious TB were detected in September, and said it is coordinating with the National Health Service (NHS) on a screening program. What is the 'Victorian disease'? Tuberculosis, also called Victoria's disease, can lead to death of the people if left untreated. When people get infected with the disease, it usually affects the lungs; however, it can also affect the abdomen, lymph nodes, nervous system and bones, damaging the nervous system on the right side of the body. Sometimes, the nerve damage prompt insufficient oxygen supply to the brain, causing numbness in parts of the body. As a result, the hands can go completely numb, making the nerves feel like they are stinging. During this, people may feel pins and needles on the right side of the body, causing pain up to the neck. This shows that the disease primarily affects the lungs, but also the abdomen, bones and nervous system. Symptoms: Needling of the body Body tingling Drowsiness in the body Numbness in the hands Severe pain Loss of mobility Muscle contraction Jaw locking Based on the report released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on tuberculosis, the disease has claimed the lives of more than 1.6 million people in 2021, making TB the second leading infectious disease after COVID-19. No further cases at the Coventry fulfilment centre Meanwhile, Amazon added that no further cases have since been found, and operations at the site are still being continued to run as usual while precautionary screening is underway amid an abundance of caution. "In line with best practice safety procedures, we immediately followed guidance from the NHS and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and made all potentially affected employees aware of the situation. We will continue to follow guidance from the experts in the NHS and would respectfully remind public organisations of the need for responsible communications where matters of public well-being are concerned," the spokesperson said, BBC reported. Amazon said the cases, identified in 2025, were non-contagious and that it is working alongside the NHS and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to expand screening measures. Dr Roger Gajraj of UKHSA West Midlands said tests are being offered to employees who may have had close contact with those affected. He added that the overall risk is low and that TB is fully treatable with antibiotics.

Amazon has confirmed that 10 cases of non-contagious TB were detected in September, and said it is coordinating with the National Health Service (NHS) on a screening program.&nbsp;

What is 'Victorian Disease'? Amazon confirms cases at UK warehouse, union demands immediate shutdown

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has for the first time publicly acknowledged that thousands of people were killed during recent protests in his country. However, Iran did not confirm the number of deaths. Just days ago, it had denied the number given by rights group. Moreover, Khamenei has blamed US President Donald Trump for “inflicting deaths, damage, and slander on the Iranian people.” In a speech on Saturday, Khamenei said thousands had been killed, “some in an inhuman, savage manner.” The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has verified the deaths of 3,090 people during the nationwide protests. Some reports also claimed that the death toll could be as high as 12,000. While Khamenei acknowledged that thousands were killed, he also said that he considers Trump a “criminal” and claimed that Washington orchestrated the unrest.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Trump called for an end to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s 37-year reign, calling the leader a ‘sick man’. “It’s time to look for new leadership in Iran,” Trump said in an interview with POLITICO. Earlier, he thanked Iranian leadership for cancelling ‘over 800’ executions, despite various signals that US might strike Tehran to stop the regime from killing protesters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-make-iran-great-again-to-trump-is-watching-is-washington-backing-exiled-prince-pahlavi-1768443879071">From ‘Make Iran Great Again’ to ‘Trump is watching’: Is Washington backing exiled prince Pahlavi?</a><h2>Iran protest and a possible US intervention</h2>Iran is witnessing massive protest against the clerical regime that has been in power after Islamic revolution of 1979. The protest that began as a reaction to the catastrophic economic collapse soon snowballed into calls for regime change. Iranian regime has warned protesters of death penalty.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pentagon-pizza-index-to-netanyahu-s-plane-buzz-around-possible-us-strike-on-iran-grows-1768448907748">From Pentagon Pizza Index to Netanyahu's plane: Buzz around possible US strike on Iran grows</a>&nbsp;US President Trump on Jan 14 took to Truth Social to declare that “help is on its way” triggering massive speculations of strike on Tehran. He also asked people to take a note of all “killers and abusers” and assured that they would pay a “big price.” However, he has taken a “wait and watch” approach and in his latest remark, he suggested that Iranian regime has stopped execution plans. Though he did not specify if that would stop him from his military action, but his statement is being reported as softening of stance despite killing of nearly 2000 protesters, as per rights group.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei admitted for the first time that thousands were killed in recent protests, blaming Donald Trump and the US. Rights groups verified over 3,000 deaths as Trump called for new leadership amid speculation of US action.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has for the first time publicly acknowledged that thousands of people were killed during recent protests in his country. However, Iran did not confirm the number of deaths. Just days ago, it had denied the number given by rights group. Moreover, Khamenei has blamed US President Donald Trump for “inflicting deaths, damage, and slander on the Iranian people.” In a speech on Saturday, Khamenei said thousands had been killed, “some in an inhuman, savage manner.” The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has verified the deaths of 3,090 people during the nationwide protests. Some reports also claimed that the death toll could be as high as 12,000. While Khamenei acknowledged that thousands were killed, he also said that he considers Trump a “criminal” and claimed that Washington orchestrated the unrest. Meanwhile, US President Trump called for an end to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s 37-year reign, calling the leader a ‘sick man’. “It’s time to look for new leadership in Iran,” Trump said in an interview with POLITICO. Earlier, he thanked Iranian leadership for cancelling ‘over 800’ executions, despite various signals that US might strike Tehran to stop the regime from killing protesters. Also Read:From ‘Make Iran Great Again’ to ‘Trump is watching’: Is Washington backing exiled prince Pahlavi? Iran protest and a possible US intervention Iran is witnessing massive protest against the clerical regime that has been in power after Islamic revolution of 1979. The protest that began as a reaction to the catastrophic economic collapse soon snowballed into calls for regime change. Iranian regime has warned protesters of death penalty. Also Read: From Pentagon Pizza Index to Netanyahu's plane: Buzz around possible US strike on Iran grows US President Trump on Jan 14 took to Truth Social to declare that “help is on its way” triggering massive speculations of strike on Tehran. He also asked people to take a note of all “killers and abusers” and assured that they would pay a “big price.” However, he has taken a “wait and watch” approach and in his latest remark, he suggested that Iranian regime has stopped execution plans. Though he did not specify if that would stop him from his military action, but his statement is being reported as softening of stance despite killing of nearly 2000 protesters, as per rights group.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei admitted for the first time that thousands were killed in recent protests, blaming Donald Trump and the US. Rights groups verified over 3,000 deaths as Trump called for new leadership amid speculation of US action.

Iran's Khamenei publicly admits massive protest deaths for the first time

US President Donald Trump’s administration wants nations to pay $1 billion to stay on his Gaza Board of Peace, reports claimed. However, the White House has denied the claims, calling the report “misleading”, saying that there is no minimum membership fee to join the peace board. This comes a day after Trump announced who would be on the board, which will be dominated by Americans.Bloomberg reported, citing a draft charter, that Trump would serve as its inaugural chairman and would decide on who is invited to be a member. The report added that decisions would be taken by a majority, with each member state present getting one vote, which would be subject to the chairman’s approval.“Each Member State shall serve a term of no more than three years from this Charter’s entry into force, subject to renewal by the Chairman. The three-year membership term shall not apply to Member States that contribute more than USD $1,000,000,000 in cash funds to the Board of Peace within the first year of the Charter’s entry into force,” the draft reads as quoted by the outlet.Responding to the report, the White House said, “This is misleading. There is no minimum membership fee to join the Board of Peace.”It further added, “This simply offers permanent membership to partner countries who demonstrate deep commitment to peace, security, and prosperity.”On Friday (Jan 16), Trump named a cluster of close allies to the board, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff, a longtime business partner turned negotiator. Trump appointed US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an International Stabilisation Force tasked with securing Gaza and training a new police force to replace Hamas. He also named a separate advisory board that includes Blair, Witkoff, Mladenov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, alongside representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the UAE and UN humanitarian coordinator Sigrid Kaag.

The White House denied reports that nations must pay a $1 billion fee to join Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace, calling them misleading. While a draft charter mentions permanent membership for major contributors, officials say there is no minimum fee.

US President Donald Trump’s administration wants nations to pay $1 billion to stay on his Gaza Board of Peace, reports claimed. However, the White House has denied the claims, calling the report “misleading”, saying that there is no minimum membership fee to join the peace board. This comes a day after Trump announced who would be on the board, which will be dominated by Americans. Bloomberg reported, citing a draft charter, that Trump would serve as its inaugural chairman and would decide on who is invited to be a member. The report added that decisions would be taken by a majority, with each member state present getting one vote, which would be subject to the chairman’s approval. “Each Member State shall serve a term of no more than three years from this Charter’s entry into force, subject to renewal by the Chairman. The three-year membership term shall not apply to Member States that contribute more than USD $1,000,000,000 in cash funds to the Board of Peace within the first year of the Charter’s entry into force,” the draft reads as quoted by the outlet. Responding to the report, the White House said, “This is misleading. There is no minimum membership fee to join the Board of Peace.” It further added, “This simply offers permanent membership to partner countries who demonstrate deep commitment to peace, security, and prosperity.” On Friday (Jan 16), Trump named a cluster of close allies to the board, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff, a longtime business partner turned negotiator. Trump appointed US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an International Stabilisation Force tasked with securing Gaza and training a new police force to replace Hamas. He also named a separate advisory board that includes Blair, Witkoff, Mladenov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, alongside representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the UAE and UN humanitarian coordinator Sigrid Kaag.

The White House denied reports that nations must pay a $1 billion fee to join Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace, calling them misleading. While a draft charter mentions permanent membership for major contributors, officials say there is no minimum fee.

Trump to charge nations $1 billion fee for Gaza peace board? White House says...

Iran faces its biggest protests in years with growing calls to overthrow Ayatollah Khamenei. From 1999 student protests to the Green Movement, Bloody Aban, and Mahsa Amini-led unrest, repeated uprisings have challenged the regime, which again survived US-Israel strikes in 2025

How many unrest has Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei survived? Can he quell the protests this time?

Donald Trump threatened up to 25% tariffs on European nations over Greenland. France, the UK, EU, and Nordic leaders rejected the move, backing Denmark and Greenland’s sovereignty. European leaders called the threat unacceptable, harmful to alliances, and against international law.

'Would undermine relations': France, UK, EU call Trump's tariff threats over Greenland 'unacceptable'

Israel on Saturday (Jan 17) said that it objected the members of the Gaza panel that will operate under US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, which oversees post-war governance in the Palestinian territory. US President Donald Trump had on Friday (Jan 16) announced the who's who of the Gaza Board of Peace. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, President of the World Bank Group Ajay Banga, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, former British prime minister Tony Blair, will be part of the Board of Peace. This group will oversee the new international security force for the battered Palestinian territory. The panel, known as the Gaza executive board, notably includes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and a Qatari official too. Trump had already declared himself the chair of the body. The White House said that the Board of Peace will take on issues such as “governance capacity-building, regional relations, reconstruction, investment attraction, large-scale funding and capital mobilization.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-hamas-delegation-arrives-in-cairo-for-gaza-ceasefire-talks-wion-1768361770094/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-hamas-delegation-arrives-in-cairo-for-gaza-ceasefire-talks-wion-1768361770094/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;On Saturday, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “The announcement regarding the composition of the Gaza Executive Board, which is subordinate to the Board of Peace, was not coordinated with Israel and runs contrary to its policy.” "The Prime Minister has instructed the Foreign Affairs Minister to contact the US Secretary of State on this matter."The moves came after the Palestinian committee of technocrats tasked with governing Gaza under the oversight of the Board of Peace began held its first meeting in Cairo, attended by Kushner. Meanwhile, the Palestinian group Islamic Jihad criticised the composition of the Board of Peace, saying it served Israel's interests. The board "came in accordance with Israeli criteria and to serve the interests of the occupation", the group said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-trump-to-announce-gaza-board-of-peace-1768384230773">Israel-Gaza War: Trump to Announce Gaza ‘Board of Peace’</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Invitations for joining the baord was given to several leaders from various countries. In Canada, a senior aide to Prime Minister Mark Carney said that he intended to accept Trump's invitation, while in Turkey, a spokesman for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he had been asked to become a "founding member" of the board. Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said that Cairo was "studying" a request for President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to join. Sharing an image of the invitation letter, Argentine President Javier Milei wrote on X that it would be "an honor" to participate in the initiative.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-us-says-gaza-truce-plan-enters-phase-two-as-trump-envoy-confirms-progress-1768451739810">Israel-Gaza War: US Says Gaza Truce Plan Enters Phase Two As Trump Envoy Confirms Progress</a>&nbsp;The inclusion of Tony Blair in the group is seen as a major controversy because of his role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. In a statement sent to AFP, Blair said: “I thank President Trump for his leadership in establishing the Board of Peace and am honored to be appointed to its Executive Board.” Blair spent years focused on the Israeli-Palestinian issue as representative of the "Middle East Quartet" -- the United Nations, European Union, United States and Russia, after leaving Downing Street in 2007.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Israel objected to the US-backed Gaza Executive Board under President Trump’s Board of Peace, citing lack of coordination. The panel includes Turkish and Qatari officials and aims to oversee post-war governance, reconstruction and security in Gaza amid ongoing regional tensions

Israel on Saturday (Jan 17) said that it objected the members of the Gaza panel that will operate under US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, which oversees post-war governance in the Palestinian territory. US President Donald Trump had on Friday (Jan 16) announced the who's who of the Gaza Board of Peace. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, President of the World Bank Group Ajay Banga, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, former British prime minister Tony Blair, will be part of the Board of Peace. This group will oversee the new international security force for the battered Palestinian territory. The panel, known as the Gaza executive board, notably includes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and a Qatari official too. Trump had already declared himself the chair of the body. The White House said that the Board of Peace will take on issues such as “governance capacity-building, regional relations, reconstruction, investment attraction, large-scale funding and capital mobilization.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-hamas-delegation-arrives-in-cairo-for-gaza-ceasefire-talks-wion-1768361770094/embed On Saturday, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “The announcement regarding the composition of the Gaza Executive Board, which is subordinate to the Board of Peace, was not coordinated with Israel and runs contrary to its policy.” "The Prime Minister has instructed the Foreign Affairs Minister to contact the US Secretary of State on this matter." The moves came after the Palestinian committee of technocrats tasked with governing Gaza under the oversight of the Board of Peace began held its first meeting in Cairo, attended by Kushner. Meanwhile, the Palestinian group Islamic Jihad criticised the composition of the Board of Peace, saying it served Israel's interests. The board "came in accordance with Israeli criteria and to serve the interests of the occupation", the group said in a statement. Also Read: Israel-Gaza War: Trump to Announce Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ Invitations for joining the baord was given to several leaders from various countries. In Canada, a senior aide to Prime Minister Mark Carney said that he intended to accept Trump's invitation, while in Turkey, a spokesman for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he had been asked to become a "founding member" of the board. Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said that Cairo was "studying" a request for President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to join. Sharing an image of the invitation letter, Argentine President Javier Milei wrote on X that it would be "an honor" to participate in the initiative. Also Read: Israel-Gaza War: US Says Gaza Truce Plan Enters Phase Two As Trump Envoy Confirms Progress The inclusion of Tony Blair in the group is seen as a major controversy because of his role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. In a statement sent to AFP, Blair said: “I thank President Trump for his leadership in establishing the Board of Peace and am honored to be appointed to its Executive Board.” Blair spent years focused on the Israeli-Palestinian issue as representative of the "Middle East Quartet" -- the United Nations, European Union, United States and Russia, after leaving Downing Street in 2007.

Israel objected to the US-backed Gaza Executive Board under President Trump’s Board of Peace, citing lack of coordination. The panel includes Turkish and Qatari officials and aims to oversee post-war governance, reconstruction and security in Gaza amid ongoing regional tensions

Netanyahu vs Trump over Gaza 'board of peace'? Israel issues statement after US announces members

The US military on Saturday (Jan 17) said that its strike in northwest Syria had killed a leader affiliated with Al-Qaeda, linked to a deadly attack on three Americans last month. The announcement of Friday's operation came one week after "large-scale" strikes by US and allied forces against the Islamic State group in Syria. Washington has blamed an IS fighter for ambushing and killing two US soldiers and a US civilian interpreter in Palmyra on December 13.&nbsp;The target of Friday's strike was Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, "an experienced terrorist leader who plotted attacks and was directly connected with the ISIS&nbsp;gunman" in last month's lone gunman attack on the American personnel, US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees the country's military forces in the region, said on X. CENTCOM said al-Jasim was affiliated with Al-Qaeda, without elaborating on his links with the IS group -- also known as ISIS -- or the Palmyra attacker. Syria's interior ministry has said the IS gunman was a member of the security forces who had been set to be fired for extremism.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-targets-civilian-vehicle-near-syria-s-aleppo-airport-us-led-international-coalition-involved-1756995732815">Drone attack on civilian vehicle near Syria’s Aleppo airport, two killed</a>&nbsp;The US personnel targeted in Palmyra were supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the international effort to combat IS, which seized swaths of Syrian and Iraqi territory in 2014. The armed group was ultimately defeated by local ground forces backed by international air strikes and other support, but IS still has a presence in Syria.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-will-find-you-and-kill-you-us-and-allies-carry-out-another-large-scale-strike-on-islamic-state-in-syria-1768098110454">'We will find you and kill you': US and allies carry out another 'large scale' strike on Islamic State in Syria</a>&nbsp;Operation Hawkeye Strike, which the US launched in response to the December 13 attack, has seen US and partner forces "hitting more than 100 ISIS infrastructure and weapons site targets. More than 300 IS fighters have been captured and 20 killed in the past year in Syria. CENTCOM said that Operation Hawkeye Strike targeted ISIS throughout Syria as part of its ongoing commitment "to root out Islamic terrorism against our warfighters, prevent future attacks, and protect American and partner forces in the region. US and coalition forces remain resolute in pursuing terrorists who seek to harm the United States." "Our message remains strong: if you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world, no matter how hard you try to evade justice," CENTCOM added in a post.

The US military said it killed Al-Qaeda–linked leader Bilal Hasan al-Jasim in a Syria strike, tying him to a December ISIS attack that killed three Americans in Palmyra. The operation follows large-scale strikes targeting ISIS to prevent further attacks

The US military on Saturday (Jan 17) said that its strike in northwest Syria had killed a leader affiliated with Al-Qaeda, linked to a deadly attack on three Americans last month. The announcement of Friday's operation came one week after "large-scale" strikes by US and allied forces against the Islamic State group in Syria. Washington has blamed an IS fighter for ambushing and killing two US soldiers and a US civilian interpreter in Palmyra on December 13. The target of Friday's strike was Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, "an experienced terrorist leader who plotted attacks and was directly connected with the ISIS gunman" in last month's lone gunman attack on the American personnel, US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees the country's military forces in the region, said on X. CENTCOM said al-Jasim was affiliated with Al-Qaeda, without elaborating on his links with the IS group -- also known as ISIS -- or the Palmyra attacker. Syria's interior ministry has said the IS gunman was a member of the security forces who had been set to be fired for extremism. Also Read: Drone attack on civilian vehicle near Syria’s Aleppo airport, two killed The US personnel targeted in Palmyra were supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the international effort to combat IS, which seized swaths of Syrian and Iraqi territory in 2014. The armed group was ultimately defeated by local ground forces backed by international air strikes and other support, but IS still has a presence in Syria. Also Read: 'We will find you and kill you': US and allies carry out another 'large scale' strike on Islamic State in Syria Operation Hawkeye Strike, which the US launched in response to the December 13 attack, has seen US and partner forces "hitting more than 100 ISIS infrastructure and weapons site targets. More than 300 IS fighters have been captured and 20 killed in the past year in Syria. CENTCOM said that Operation Hawkeye Strike targeted ISIS throughout Syria as part of its ongoing commitment "to root out Islamic terrorism against our warfighters, prevent future attacks, and protect American and partner forces in the region. US and coalition forces remain resolute in pursuing terrorists who seek to harm the United States." "Our message remains strong: if you harm our warfighters, we will find you and kill you anywhere in the world, no matter how hard you try to evade justice," CENTCOM added in a post.

The US military said it killed Al-Qaeda–linked leader Bilal Hasan al-Jasim in a Syria strike, tying him to a December ISIS attack that killed three Americans in Palmyra. The operation follows large-scale strikes targeting ISIS to prevent further attacks

US forces kill Al-Qaeda affiliate leader responsible for ISIS attack that killed 3 Americans

A day after expressing respect for the leadership in Iran and thanking it for cancelling ‘over 800’ executions, President Donald Trump on Saturday called for an end to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s 37-year reign, calling the leader a ‘sick man’. “It’s time to look for new leadership in Iran,” Trump said in an interview with POLITICO, even as widespread protests calling for an end to the regime appear to have waned. Thousands of protesters across the country were killed over the last three weeks, prompting Trump to repeatedly threaten military intervention in Iran. On Tuesday, Trump called on Iranians to keep protesting and “take over institutions,” saying that “help is on its way.”However, the next day, Trump abruptly changed course, saying he had been informed that the killings had stopped.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-calls-trump-a-criminal-blames-him-for-slander-casualties-and-damage-during-protest-1768653081527">Khamenei calls Trump a ‘criminal,’ blames him for slander, casualties and damage during protest</a>&nbsp;“The best decision he ever made was not hanging more than 800 people two days ago,” Trump said Saturday, when asked about the size of a possible US military operation in Iran.&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “I greatly respect the fact that all scheduled hangings, which were to take place yesterday (Over 800 of them), have been cancelled by the leadership of Iran. Thank you!”&nbsp;<h2>Khamenei calls Trump a ‘criminal’</h2>&nbsp;Trump’s comments on Saturday came shortly after Khamenei’s X account posted a series of hostile messages, accusing the US president of being responsible for deadly violence and unrest in Iran.“We find the US President guilty due to the casualties, damages, and slander he inflicted upon the Iranian nation,” Khamenei wrote.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hardline-cleric-calls-for-death-penalty-to-protesters-threatens-trump-1768584627521">Iranian hardline cleric calls for death penalty to protesters, threatens Trump</a>&nbsp;In another post, he said Trump had mischaracterised violent groups as representing the Iranian people, calling it “an appalling slander.”Khamenei reiterated an accusation that the US seeks domination over Iran’s economic and political resources.He also described the protesters as “foot soldiers" of the United States and said they had destroyed mosques and educational centres. “Through hurting people, they killed several thousand of them,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Tehran’s rulers rely on repression and violence to govern,’ says Trump</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;After Khamenei’s posts were read to him, Trump said Tehran’s rulers rely on repression and violence to govern. “What he is guilty of, as the leader of a country, is the complete destruction of the country and the use of violence at levels never seen before,” Trump said.&nbsp;“In order to keep the country functioning—even though that function is at a very low level—the leadership should focus on running his country properly, like I do with the United States, and not killing people by the thousands in order to keep control.” “Leadership is about respect, not fear and death,” Trump added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-slap-tariffs-on-nations-opposing-his-greenland-takeover-plan-1768581081251">Trump threatens to slap tariffs on nations opposing his Greenland takeover plan</a>&nbsp;Trump went further in personal terms, denouncing Khamenei and the Iranian system of governance.“The man is a sick man who should run his country properly and stop killing people,” Trump said. “His country is the worst place to live anywhere in the world because of poor leadership.”&nbsp;The exchange underscores a sharpening rhetoric between Washington and Tehran at a volatile moment for the region, and after Khamenei claimed in a recent public address that “the Iranian nation has defeated America.”Iranian officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Trump’s fresh observations on Khamenei and Iran.&nbsp;Trump’s remarks came after thousands of protesters were killed in Iran over the last two weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump’s comments targeting Iran’s supreme leader came on Saturday shortly after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s X account posted a series of hostile messages, accusing the US president of being responsible for deadly violence and unrest in Iran.

A day after expressing respect for the leadership in Iran and thanking it for cancelling ‘over 800’ executions, President Donald Trump on Saturday called for an end to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s 37-year reign, calling the leader a ‘sick man’. “It’s time to look for new leadership in Iran,” Trump said in an interview with POLITICO, even as widespread protests calling for an end to the regime appear to have waned. Thousands of protesters across the country were killed over the last three weeks, prompting Trump to repeatedly threaten military intervention in Iran. On Tuesday, Trump called on Iranians to keep protesting and “take over institutions,” saying that “help is on its way.” However, the next day, Trump abruptly changed course, saying he had been informed that the killings had stopped. Also Read: Khamenei calls Trump a ‘criminal,’ blames him for slander, casualties and damage during protest “The best decision he ever made was not hanging more than 800 people two days ago,” Trump said Saturday, when asked about the size of a possible US military operation in Iran. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “I greatly respect the fact that all scheduled hangings, which were to take place yesterday (Over 800 of them), have been cancelled by the leadership of Iran. Thank you!” Khamenei calls Trump a ‘criminal’ Trump’s comments on Saturday came shortly after Khamenei’s X account posted a series of hostile messages, accusing the US president of being responsible for deadly violence and unrest in Iran. “We find the US President guilty due to the casualties, damages, and slander he inflicted upon the Iranian nation,” Khamenei wrote. Also Read: Iranian hardline cleric calls for death penalty to protesters, threatens Trump In another post, he said Trump had mischaracterised violent groups as representing the Iranian people, calling it “an appalling slander.” Khamenei reiterated an accusation that the US seeks domination over Iran’s economic and political resources. He also described the protesters as “foot soldiers" of the United States and said they had destroyed mosques and educational centres. “Through hurting people, they killed several thousand of them,” he said. ‘Tehran’s rulers rely on repression and violence to govern,’ says Trump After Khamenei’s posts were read to him, Trump said Tehran’s rulers rely on repression and violence to govern. “What he is guilty of, as the leader of a country, is the complete destruction of the country and the use of violence at levels never seen before,” Trump said. “In order to keep the country functioning—even though that function is at a very low level—the leadership should focus on running his country properly, like I do with the United States, and not killing people by the thousands in order to keep control.” “Leadership is about respect, not fear and death,” Trump added. Also Read: Trump threatens to slap tariffs on nations opposing his Greenland takeover plan Trump went further in personal terms, denouncing Khamenei and the Iranian system of governance. “The man is a sick man who should run his country properly and stop killing people,” Trump said. “His country is the worst place to live anywhere in the world because of poor leadership.” The exchange underscores a sharpening rhetoric between Washington and Tehran at a volatile moment for the region, and after Khamenei claimed in a recent public address that “the Iranian nation has defeated America.” Iranian officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Trump’s fresh observations on Khamenei and Iran. Trump’s remarks came after thousands of protesters were killed in Iran over the last two weeks.

Donald Trump’s comments targeting Iran’s supreme leader came on Saturday shortly after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s X account posted a series of hostile messages, accusing the US president of being responsible for deadly violence and unrest in Iran.

‘It’s time to look for new leadership in Iran,’ says Trump, calls Khamenei a ‘sick man’

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 17) ramped up his efforts to acquire Greenland, threatening multiple European countries, including Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland, accusing them of "playing this very dangerous game" by journeying to Greenland for a "purpose unknown."&nbsp;Trump sought to cloak his territorial ambitions by asserting that “World Peace is at stake!” as Russia and China attempt to acquire Greenland and that “there is not a thing that Denmark can do about it,” claiming the country “currently has two dogsleds as protection, one added recently.”&nbsp;"World Peace is at stake! China and Russia want Greenland, and there is not a thing that Denmark can do about it," he said in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;"Only the United States of America, under PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP, can play in this game, and very successfully, at that! Nobody will touch this sacred piece of Land, especially since the National Security of the United States and the World at large is at stake. On top of everything else, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland have journeyed to Greenland, for purposes unknown," he said.&nbsp;These statements from Trump came after European countries sent a small number of military troops to Greenland amid Denmark pressing for a larger and more permanent NATO presence to ensure the security of the island. Mouting sharp attack of the European Union, the US president asserted that the US "have subsidized Denmark, and all of the Countries of the European Union, and others, for many years by not charging them Tariffs, or any other forms of remuneration" and demanded that &nbsp;"Now, after Centuries, it is time for Denmark to give back", by ceding greenland to America.&nbsp;He announced 10 percent tariffs effective February 1 against Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland for opposing his plans to acquire Greenland adding that "On June 1st, 2026, the Tariff will be increased to 25%. This Tariff will be due and payable until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-sues-openai-microsoft-134-billion-fraud-1768650251288">Elon Musk sues OpenAI and Microsoft, alleges fraud and seeks upto $134 bn</a>&nbsp;POTUS justified his territorial ambitions by stating that "The United States has been trying to do this transaction for over 150 years. Many Presidents have tried, and for good reason, but Denmark has always refused."&nbsp;He emphasised that "because of the Golden Dome, and modern-day weapons systems, both Offensive and Defensive, the need to ACQUIRE is especially important," adding that these systems can work effectively only if Greenland is included in it.&nbsp;"Hundreds of Billions of Dollars are currently being spent on Security Programs having to do with 'The Dome,' including for the possible protection of Canada, and this very brilliant, but highly complex system can only work at its maximum potential and efficiency, because of angles, metes, and bounds, if this Land is included in it, he stated.&nbsp;"The United States of America is immediately open to negotiation with Denmark and/or any of these Countries that have put so much at risk, he declared.&nbsp;

If imposed, the threatened tariffs against Washington’s NATO allies would mark an unprecedented escalation and could trigger serious tensions within the transatlantic alliance.


US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 17) ramped up his efforts to acquire Greenland, threatening multiple European countries, including Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland, accusing them of "playing this very dangerous game" by journeying to Greenland for a "purpose unknown." Trump sought to cloak his territorial ambitions by asserting that “World Peace is at stake!” as Russia and China attempt to acquire Greenland and that “there is not a thing that Denmark can do about it,” claiming the country “currently has two dogsleds as protection, one added recently.” "World Peace is at stake! China and Russia want Greenland, and there is not a thing that Denmark can do about it," he said in a Truth Social post. "Only the United States of America, under PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP, can play in this game, and very successfully, at that! Nobody will touch this sacred piece of Land, especially since the National Security of the United States and the World at large is at stake. On top of everything else, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland have journeyed to Greenland, for purposes unknown," he said. These statements from Trump came after European countries sent a small number of military troops to Greenland amid Denmark pressing for a larger and more permanent NATO presence to ensure the security of the island. Mouting sharp attack of the European Union, the US president asserted that the US "have subsidized Denmark, and all of the Countries of the European Union, and others, for many years by not charging them Tariffs, or any other forms of remuneration" and demanded that "Now, after Centuries, it is time for Denmark to give back", by ceding greenland to America. He announced 10 percent tariffs effective February 1 against Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland for opposing his plans to acquire Greenland adding that "On June 1st, 2026, the Tariff will be increased to 25%. This Tariff will be due and payable until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland". Also Read: Elon Musk sues OpenAI and Microsoft, alleges fraud and seeks upto $134 bn POTUS justified his territorial ambitions by stating that "The United States has been trying to do this transaction for over 150 years. Many Presidents have tried, and for good reason, but Denmark has always refused." He emphasised that "because of the Golden Dome, and modern-day weapons systems, both Offensive and Defensive, the need to ACQUIRE is especially important," adding that these systems can work effectively only if Greenland is included in it. "Hundreds of Billions of Dollars are currently being spent on Security Programs having to do with 'The Dome,' including for the possible protection of Canada, and this very brilliant, but highly complex system can only work at its maximum potential and efficiency, because of angles, metes, and bounds, if this Land is included in it, he stated. "The United States of America is immediately open to negotiation with Denmark and/or any of these Countries that have put so much at risk, he declared.

If imposed, the threatened tariffs against Washington’s NATO allies would mark an unprecedented escalation and could trigger serious tensions within the transatlantic alliance.

Trump threatens 10% tariff on UK, France, Germany and other European countries over Greenland, warns of hike to 25%

As negotiations over the India-US trade deal drag on due to several contentious issues like greater access to US dairy and agriculture products, the pulses or dal may become another bone of contention between the two sides after two American senators wrote to Presiident Doanld Trump to push New Delhi to quash a 30 per cent import duty on the US pulses. In a letter dated 16 January, senators Kevin Cramer of North Dakota and Steve Daines of Montana urged Trump to take up the issue of "favourable pulses crop provision" in future agreements between Washington and New Delhi, saying that the US pulse crop producers face a significant competitive disadvantage when exporting their high-quality product to India.&nbsp;The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect in late August.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India announced on October 30, 2025, that it would impose a 30 per cent tariff on yellow peas. The higher duty went into effect on November 1, 2025. As a result of the unfair Indian tariffs, US pulse crop producers could face a significant competitive disadvantage when exporting their high-quality product to India, the letter reads.&nbsp;The senators mentioned their earlier letter on the same issue during Trump's first term, which he hand-delivered to Prime Minister Modi during the 2020 trade negotiatiation leading to bringing "US producers to the table".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-hindu-man-killed-in-bangladesh-30-year-old-ripon-shaha-run-over-by-suv-at-fuel-station-hindus-targated-targated-killings-1768656284472">Another Hindu man killed in Bangladesh; 30-year-old Ripon Shaha run over by SUV at fuel station</a>&nbsp;The lawmaker pointed out that India, being the largest consumer of these crops, with around 27 per cent of the world's consumption, can be advantageous for the American farmers by exporting these commodities and "can boost trade disparities with the US."&nbsp;India faced some of the highest levies imposed by Trump. Initially hit with a 25 per cent tariff, the United States doubled the duty to 50 per cent in August 2025, adding a punitive surcharge linked to New Delhi’s continued Russian oil imports. The 50 per cent rate applies to key exports including textiles, gems and jewellery, footwear, furniture and chemicals, while sectors such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, tea, coffee and spices have received exemptions.

The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect.

As negotiations over the India-US trade deal drag on due to several contentious issues like greater access to US dairy and agriculture products, the pulses or dal may become another bone of contention between the two sides after two American senators wrote to Presiident Doanld Trump to push New Delhi to quash a 30 per cent import duty on the US pulses. In a letter dated 16 January, senators Kevin Cramer of North Dakota and Steve Daines of Montana urged Trump to take up the issue of "favourable pulses crop provision" in future agreements between Washington and New Delhi, saying that the US pulse crop producers face a significant competitive disadvantage when exporting their high-quality product to India. The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect in late August.

The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect.

India-US trade deal: American senators write to Trump, urge him to press Modi on lowering tariffs on pulses

Elon Musk has sued OpenAI and Microsoft for fraud and seeks &nbsp;$79bn to $134 bn in damages. He accused them of defrauding him and sought a share in the “wrongful gains” they received from his seed money. He alleged that OpenAI and Microsoft defrauded him by claiming it to be a non-profit and now pivoting to a profit model for personal and commercial gain.&nbsp;Musk made an initial investment of $38 million, which was approximately 60 per cent of OpenAI's initial seed funding. OpenAI gained between $65.5 billion and $109.4 billion because of its contribution during 2015, and Microsoft gained around $13.3 billion and $25.1 billion. Musk later left OpenAI in 2018 and started xAI, his own chatbot, Grok. Both companies have undergone a merger and restructuring and violated their founding mission, so his entitled to the gains.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-x-1-million-payout-long-form-articles-creators-1768637587409">X is offering $1mn prize for the top performing long-form article creator</a>&nbsp;"Just as an early investor in a startup company may realise gains many orders of magnitude greater than the investor's initial investment, the wrongful gains that OpenAI and Microsoft have earned – and which Mr Musk is now entitled to disgorge – are much larger than Mr Musk's initial contributions," read a court filing by Musk.OpenAI has dismissed the lawsuit as “baseless” and a campaign of “harassment”. Musk's damage valuation was put forward by his expert, C. Paul Wazzan. It also states that Musk may seek punitive damages and other penalties. In response, OpenAI and Microsoft have urged the judge to restrict what the expert can present. They argued that the analysis is “made up,” “unverifiable” and “unprecedented”. The companies also said that it seeks huge figures as a competitor from a non-profit to a former donor.&nbsp;A judge in Oakland, California, ruled this month that a jury will hear the trial, expected to start in April.

Elon Musk has sued OpenAI and Microsoft, seeking up to $134 billion in damages over alleged fraud and a disputed partnership.

Elon Musk has sued OpenAI and Microsoft for fraud and seeks $79bn to $134 bn in damages. He accused them of defrauding him and sought a share in the “wrongful gains” they received from his seed money. He alleged that OpenAI and Microsoft defrauded him by claiming it to be a non-profit and now pivoting to a profit model for personal and commercial gain. Musk made an initial investment of $38 million, which was approximately 60 per cent of OpenAI's initial seed funding. OpenAI gained between $65.5 billion and $109.4 billion because of its contribution during 2015, and Microsoft gained around $13.3 billion and $25.1 billion. Musk later left OpenAI in 2018 and started xAI, his own chatbot, Grok. Both companies have undergone a merger and restructuring and violated their founding mission, so his entitled to the gains. Also Read: X is offering $1mn prize for the top performing long-form article creator "Just as an early investor in a startup company may realise gains many orders of magnitude greater than the investor's initial investment, the wrongful gains that OpenAI and Microsoft have earned – and which Mr Musk is now entitled to disgorge – are much larger than Mr Musk's initial contributions," read a court filing by Musk. OpenAI has dismissed the lawsuit as “baseless” and a campaign of “harassment”. Musk's damage valuation was put forward by his expert, C. Paul Wazzan. It also states that Musk may seek punitive damages and other penalties. In response, OpenAI and Microsoft have urged the judge to restrict what the expert can present. They argued that the analysis is “made up,” “unverifiable” and “unprecedented”. The companies also said that it seeks huge figures as a competitor from a non-profit to a former donor. A judge in Oakland, California, ruled this month that a jury will hear the trial, expected to start in April.

Elon Musk has sued OpenAI and Microsoft, seeking up to $134 billion in damages over alleged fraud and a disputed partnership.

Elon Musk sues OpenAI and Microsoft, alleges fraud and seeks upto $134 bn

NATO countries have deployed a small multinational military force of 37 military personnel to Greenland in a symbolic deployment. It was intended to send a political signal to assert Danish Sovereignity in the territory through the so-called “reconnaissance mission”. The Danish-led initiative is called Arctic Endurance. It already has 200 personnel stationed there. Denmark has promised that it was pressing on with plans for a "larger and more permanent" NATO presence to secure the island coveted by US President Donald Trump.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-sues-openai-microsoft-134-billion-fraud-1768650251288">Elon Musk sues OpenAI and Microsoft, alleges fraud and seeks upto $134 bn</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The &quot;clown show&quot; is getting started🤣🤣 German Troops Reportedly Arrive in Greenland for Danish-Led Arctic Exercise 🇩🇪 Thirteen WHOLE German soldiers have arrived in Greenland to participate in “Operation Arctic Endurance,” a military exercise organized by Denmark on the Arctic… <a href="https://t.co/6p5zE1LqTm">pic.twitter.com/6p5zE1LqTm</a>&mdash; Alma Gentil (@Chinoy200096633) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chinoy200096633/status/2012512237190005047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

France has sent 15 soldiers of the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade, Germany has added 13 more personnel, Sweden has sent 3 officers participating, Norway has 2 officers deployed, the United Kingdom has 1 military officer added to the group, Netherlands has 1 navy officer who has also joined the mission. People online trolled the scale of deployment, one user commented, may be the one officer from the UK is “James Bond”. Others called it a “clown show”. Another called it "THE BOYS WEEKEND AWAY FROM THE WIVES"&nbsp;The US military already has a presence of 140–150 personnel at Pituffik Space Base. “I don’t think troops in Europe impact the president’s decision-making process, nor does it impact his goal of the acquisition of Greenland at all,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Soren Enderson, Head of Denmark's Joint Arctic Force, said that the military exercises in Greenland are linked to Russia. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Russia will bolster its defence and infrastructure in the Northern Sea route, calling NATO activities near Greenland a provocation and Western 'hysteria' over nonexistent threats.&nbsp;

NATO deploys just 37 troops to Greenland under Operation Arctic Endurance, sparking online trolling as Denmark asserts sovereignty amid US interest.

NATO countries have deployed a small multinational military force of 37 military personnel to Greenland in a symbolic deployment. It was intended to send a political signal to assert Danish Sovereignity in the territory through the so-called “reconnaissance mission”. The Danish-led initiative is called Arctic Endurance. It already has 200 personnel stationed there. Denmark has promised that it was pressing on with plans for a "larger and more permanent" NATO presence to secure the island coveted by US President Donald Trump. Also Read: Elon Musk sues OpenAI and Microsoft, alleges fraud and seeks upto $134 bn

NATO deploys just 37 troops to Greenland under Operation Arctic Endurance, sparking online trolling as Denmark asserts sovereignty amid US interest.

NATO's Greenland defence sees symbolic troop deployment, not a fighting force

The targeting of Hindus in Bangladesh continues unabated, showing no signs of easing, as another case of a Hindu man crushed to death by an SUV following a dispute at a fuel station was reported. The victim identified 30-year-old Ripon Shaha, a fuel station worker, who was allegedly mowed over in an effort to stop the vehicle from leaving the petrol pump without paying for the fuel. According to local media reports, Abdul Hashem, a local leader belonging to the Bangladesh National Party (BNP), and a resident of Sadar Upazila, refused to pay the Rs 3,710 bill for fuel on Friday and was attempting to escape. Shaha, trying to stop Hashem, stood in front of the Black SUV. The driver ran him over and fled, killing Saha on the spot.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Another Hindu youth was ki££ed today in Rajbari, Bangladesh❗ BNP leader Abul Hashem ran his car over Filling Station Worker Ripon Shaha (30) while he asked to pay the price of Patrol. Later he died on spot.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BangladeshCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BangladeshCrisis</a> <a href="https://t.co/vkcAZ1jZvS">pic.twitter.com/vkcAZ1jZvS</a>&mdash; BANGLADESH CRISIS 🇧🇩 (@BDcrisis) <a href="https://twitter.com/BDcrisis/status/2012220831569691003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Police later seized the vehicle and arrested its owner, Abdul Hashem, 55, and his driver, Kamal Hossain, 43. "We will file a murder case. The worker stood in front of the car after they refused to pay for fuel, and they ran him over before fleeing," Rajbari Sadar Police chief Khondakar Ziaur Rahman told news portal bdnews24.com. The incident comes as the latest attack on a series of sustained targeting of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, as the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council said that it has recorded 51 incidents of communal violence in December 2025 alone.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-illegal-infiltrators-must-be-removed-pm-modi-says-bengal-is-fed-up-with-tmc-misrule-mamata-bjp-bmc-gen-z-1768649009821">‘Illegal infiltrators must be removed': PM Modi says Bengal is fed up with TMC misrule</a>&nbsp;The council also highlighted escalated targeting of minorities and expressed grave concerns over rising attacks and religious discrimination. The forum alleged the recent rise in violence against minorities is intended to prevent minority voters from casting their votes as the general election approaches. As per the 2022 census, Bangladesh has around 13.13 million Hindus, making about 7.95 per cent of the population, with the community facing a sustained existential crisis from Islamic fundamentalists. The Hindu population in the neighbouring country declined from 19.8 per cent at the time of independence in 1971 to 7.95 per cent in 2022.

In Bangladesh’s Rajbari district, a 30-year-old Hindu petrol station worker, Ripon Shaha, was killed after a customer deliberately ran him over during a dispute over fuel payment.

The targeting of Hindus in Bangladesh continues unabated, showing no signs of easing, as another case of a Hindu man crushed to death by an SUV following a dispute at a fuel station was reported. The victim identified 30-year-old Ripon Shaha, a fuel station worker, who was allegedly mowed over in an effort to stop the vehicle from leaving the petrol pump without paying for the fuel. According to local media reports, Abdul Hashem, a local leader belonging to the Bangladesh National Party (BNP), and a resident of Sadar Upazila, refused to pay the Rs 3,710 bill for fuel on Friday and was attempting to escape. Shaha, trying to stop Hashem, stood in front of the Black SUV. The driver ran him over and fled, killing Saha on the spot.

In Bangladesh’s Rajbari district, a 30-year-old Hindu petrol station worker, Ripon Shaha, was killed after a customer deliberately ran him over during a dispute over fuel payment.

Another Hindu man killed in Bangladesh; 30-year-old Ripon Shaha run over by SUV at fuel station

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said on Saturday that Iran considers US President Donald Trump a “criminal” and accused him of being responsible for inflicting deaths, damage, and slander on the Iranian people during the recent wave of protests, and claimed that Washington orchestrated the unrest. “The latest anti-Iran sedition was different in that the US president personally became involved,” Iranian media quoted Khamenei as saying.Khamenei said the US and Trump personally were behind the demonstrations that swept the country and were met with a violent crackdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘We consider the US president a criminal’</h2>&nbsp;“We consider the US president a criminal for the casualties, damages, and the slander he inflicted on the Iranian nation,” he said, according to Iran International.Americans had planned these events, and their goal was “domination over Iran,” he alleged.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran&#39;s Khamenei: This was an American sedition. The Americans planned it, they worked on it. America’s goal — I say this decisively and clearly — America’s goal is to swallow Iran. This isn’t about the current US President. This is American policy. We consider the US… <a href="https://t.co/41UkJibL2l">pic.twitter.com/41UkJibL2l</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/2012471952670114087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hardline-cleric-calls-for-death-penalty-to-protesters-threatens-trump-1768584627521">Iranian hardline cleric calls for death penalty to protesters, threatens Trump</a><h2>‘Unrest was an American plot, goal of US is to devour Iran’</h2>&nbsp;“The recent unrest was an American plot, and the United States’ goal is to devour Iran. Trump himself intervened in this unrest, made statements, encouraged the rioters, and said we will provide military support,” he added.&nbsp;Khamenei also rejected international portrayals of the demonstrations as a popular uprising and accused Trump of misrepresenting “vandals” as the Iranian people. He praised the authorities’ response to the unrest and issued a warning to those he said were behind it. “The Iranian nation will not let go of the domestic and international criminals behind this unrest. The Iranian nation, just as it broke the back of the riot, must also break the back of those who instigated it,” Khamenei said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-slap-tariffs-on-nations-opposing-his-greenland-takeover-plan-1768581081251">Trump threatens to slap tariffs on nations opposing his Greenland takeover plan</a>&nbsp;Khamenei’s combative tone was in contrast to Trump’s conciliatory note, as he publicly thanked Iran’s leaders for not carrying out mass executions of detained protesters.&nbsp;Hard-line voices within Iran, however, have echoed Khamenei’s accusations. Senior clerics have called for harsh punishments for detained protesters and issued threats against both Trump and Israel.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s combative tone was in contrast to US President Donald Trump’s conciliatory note, as he publicly thanked Iran’s leaders for not carrying out mass executions of detained protesters.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said on Saturday that Iran considers US President Donald Trump a “criminal” and accused him of being responsible for inflicting deaths, damage, and slander on the Iranian people during the recent wave of protests, and claimed that Washington orchestrated the unrest. “The latest anti-Iran sedition was different in that the US president personally became involved,” Iranian media quoted Khamenei as saying. Khamenei said the US and Trump personally were behind the demonstrations that swept the country and were met with a violent crackdown. ‘We consider the US president a criminal’ “We consider the US president a criminal for the casualties, damages, and the slander he inflicted on the Iranian nation,” he said, according to Iran International. Americans had planned these events, and their goal was “domination over Iran,” he alleged.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s combative tone was in contrast to US President Donald Trump’s conciliatory note, as he publicly thanked Iran’s leaders for not carrying out mass executions of detained protesters.

Khamenei calls Trump a ‘criminal,’ blames him for slander, casualties and damage during protests

US President Donald Trump issued sweeping pardons on Thursday to a large group of almost two dozen convicts, including the father of a large donor to his super PAC, a former governor of Puerto Rico, a fraudster whose sentence Trump commuted in his first term and who was back in prison again. In a social media post, White House Pardon Czar Alice Marie Johnson, mentioned that the Trump administration granted clemency to 21 “deserving individuals”, among whom 9 will be released immediately.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iraq-isis-comment-venezuela-delcy-rodriguez-1768631789491">Trump again claims US created ISIS to explain backing for Delcy Rodriguez</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What a blessed morning!!! Last night, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> extended mercy to 21 deserving individuals — with 9 people immediately released, including grandmother Angela Reynolds, Angela Cupit, Andre Routt, and Zechariah Benjamin. Grateful to <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealDonaldTrump</a>, the WHC team, and Deputy Dir Josh… <a href="https://t.co/w0Vfx3lldg">pic.twitter.com/w0Vfx3lldg</a>&mdash; Alice Marie Johnson (@AliceMarieFree) <a href="https://twitter.com/AliceMarieFree/status/2012203421131030882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Notable individuals who received clemency</h2>Adriana Camberos and Andreas CamberosAdriana was convicted of fraud in 2017 for counterfeiting 5-hour energy bottles for grocers. Her sentence was commuted in 2021, but she was back in prison again in 2024 for a fraud conviction. A rare second pardon by the same President. Her brother Andreas, who was convicted in 2024, was also pardoned.&nbsp;Julio Herrera VelutiniA Venezuelan-Italian banker conspiracy, bribery and wire fraud. He was accused of trying to bribe former Puerto Rico Gov. Wanda Vázquez. Notably Herrar's daughter, Isabela Herrera, donated $2.5 million to Trump's MAGA in late 2024.&nbsp;Wanda VázquezThe former Puerto Rican governor, who was convicted of campaign finance violations and pleaded guilty to accepting a promise of a campaign contribution that was never received, in exchange for dropping bribery and fraud charges.Marko RossiniA former FBI agent who was also involved in campaign finance, along with Wanda Vázquez and Julio Herrera Velutini.Michael GrimmFormer Republican Congressman from New York who served time for tax fraud. He reportedly threatened to throw a reporter off Capitol Hill for asking uncomfortable questions.Tood and Julie Chrisley&nbsp;The couple, known for their Tennessee-based reality series "Chrisley Knows Best," was on trial and conviction on bank fraud and tax fraud.Henry Cuellar and Imelda CuellarThe couple was convicted of fraud, money laundering and accepting a bribe of $600,000 from an Azerbaijani state-owned energy company and a Mexican commercial bank.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump granted clemency to 21 convicts, including donors, a former Puerto Rico governor, fraudsters and ex-lawmakers.

US President Donald Trump issued sweeping pardons on Thursday to a large group of almost two dozen convicts, including the father of a large donor to his super PAC, a former governor of Puerto Rico, a fraudster whose sentence Trump commuted in his first term and who was back in prison again. In a social media post, White House Pardon Czar Alice Marie Johnson, mentioned that the Trump administration granted clemency to 21 “deserving individuals”, among whom 9 will be released immediately. Also Read: Trump again claims US created ISIS to explain backing for Delcy Rodriguez

US President Donald Trump granted clemency to 21 convicts, including donors, a former Puerto Rico governor, fraudsters and ex-lawmakers.

Trump issues pardons to 21 convicts, including convicted fraudsters and politically connected figure

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado escaped the country last month, defying a decade-long travel ban, after she spent almost a year in hiding to receive her Nobel Peace Prize in Norway in December. The video of her escape and rescue by the US-based Grey Bull has been released, showing her undertaking a high-risk route to get her prestigious award.Machado boarded a boat from the Venezuelan coast and sailed to a rendezvous point in the Caribbean Sea, where she was picked up by Grey Bull founder and special forces veteran Bryan Stern and his team.The two-minute-long video released by the Grey Bull showed the moment Machado reached and boarded Stern’s vessel in the middle of the night.“Hey everyone, this is Bryan from Grey Bull Rescue. Today is December 9th. The boys and I are in Curacao, departing on a boat to go get Maria Corina Machado. We’ve been out of the region now for over a month, working at Venezuela hops. But this is the big enchilada. Getting her from where she is to where she needs to be is definitely a challenge. We’ll see how this goes,” Stern says at the beginning of the video.As Machado’s boat is seen approaching his vessel, Stern is heard saying, “That’s them, that’s them, that’s them.” After confirming Machado’s identity, Stern helps her into his boat in the darkness of the night.“Hi, María. My name is Bryan. Nice to meet you. I got you,” he says as she gets on.“So wet and so cold,” Machado is heard saying in the clip.In another shot, Machado is seen wearing a dark jacket and hat. “I am María Corina Machado. I’m alive. I’m safe and very grateful to Grey Bull,” she says, directly looking into the camera.At the end of the video, several images of Machado with Stern and his team are seen. At the same time, Stern’s voice is heard confirming they had reached the Nobel laureate.“Jackpot, jackpot, jackpot. Objective Golden Dynamite,” Stern says before saying that they are headed to Curacao, an island near Venezuela.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨NEVER BEFORE SEEN VIDEO of Maria Machado’s rescue from Venezuela before Maduro was captured. She was secretly smuggled through guarded checkpoints by a Tampa-based nonprofit group of Special Operations Veterans called <a href="https://twitter.com/greybullrescue?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@greybullrescue</a> in Operation Golden Dynamite. If Maduro’s… <a href="https://t.co/GXy7urFljk">https://t.co/GXy7urFljk</a> <a href="https://t.co/bw5e6F84o6">pic.twitter.com/bw5e6F84o6</a>&mdash; DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) <a href="https://twitter.com/DC_Draino/status/2012156628879953963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Stern earlier said that they reached the shore early morning following a long, cold and tense journey. From there, Machado boarded a plane to Norway, where she was supposed to accept her Nobel Prize and meet her family.Last month, Grey Bull said that the extraction operation lasted nearly 16 hours and was carried out through rough water in the middle of the night. Stern said that the operation was funded by anonymous donors, although he acknowledged that his team informed the US military of their presence at sea. Led by Stern, the rescue group has conducted several civilian extractions across the world and carried out at least 800 operations.Machado had earlier refused to reveal details of her extraction operation, citing safety concerns. “One day I will be able to tell you, because certainly I don’t want to put them in risk right now,” she had said.In a post on X, Grey Bull Rescue wrote, “Big thanks to my team @greybullrescue who just completed their 801st mission in 4 years-8400+lives saved. Huge shoutout to our partners and sources who made Operation: GOLDEN DYNAMITE the daring and dangerous success it was. Of course, our GLORIOUS sponsors and DONORS. These ops cost money.”“@POTUS @PeteHegseth @marcorubio…. Thank you for your leadership. Words backed by actions, at speed …. Is what you and Grey Bull Rescue are all about,” it added.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado secretly escaped Venezuela last month with help from Grey Bull Rescue, defying a travel ban to reach Norway for her Nobel Peace Prize. A newly released video shows the high-risk nighttime boat extraction in the Caribbean.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado escaped the country last month, defying a decade-long travel ban, after she spent almost a year in hiding to receive her Nobel Peace Prize in Norway in December. The video of her escape and rescue by the US-based Grey Bull has been released, showing her undertaking a high-risk route to get her prestigious award. Machado boarded a boat from the Venezuelan coast and sailed to a rendezvous point in the Caribbean Sea, where she was picked up by Grey Bull founder and special forces veteran Bryan Stern and his team. The two-minute-long video released by the Grey Bull showed the moment Machado reached and boarded Stern’s vessel in the middle of the night. “Hey everyone, this is Bryan from Grey Bull Rescue. Today is December 9th. The boys and I are in Curacao, departing on a boat to go get Maria Corina Machado. We’ve been out of the region now for over a month, working at Venezuela hops. But this is the big enchilada. Getting her from where she is to where she needs to be is definitely a challenge. We’ll see how this goes,” Stern says at the beginning of the video. As Machado’s boat is seen approaching his vessel, Stern is heard saying, “That’s them, that’s them, that’s them.” After confirming Machado’s identity, Stern helps her into his boat in the darkness of the night. “Hi, María. My name is Bryan. Nice to meet you. I got you,” he says as she gets on. “So wet and so cold,” Machado is heard saying in the clip. In another shot, Machado is seen wearing a dark jacket and hat. “I am María Corina Machado. I’m alive. I’m safe and very grateful to Grey Bull,” she says, directly looking into the camera. At the end of the video, several images of Machado with Stern and his team are seen. At the same time, Stern’s voice is heard confirming they had reached the Nobel laureate. “Jackpot, jackpot, jackpot. Objective Golden Dynamite,” Stern says before saying that they are headed to Curacao, an island near Venezuela.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado secretly escaped Venezuela last month with help from Grey Bull Rescue, defying a travel ban to reach Norway for her Nobel Peace Prize. A newly released video shows the high-risk nighttime boat extraction in the Caribbean.

WATCH | Video captures Machado’s ‘daring and dangerous’ escape from Venezuela to accept Nobel Prize

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has issued a landmark presidential decree that for the first time formally recognises the rights of the country's Kurdish minority, including recognising the Kurdish language as a national language and restoring citizenship to previously stateless Kurdish Syrians, reported Al Jazeera. The move, announced on Friday amid ongoing tensions in the country's north, is being described by officials as a major step toward addressing decades of marginalisation and integrating Kurds more fully into Syria's national framework. Decree No. 13 of 2026 declares Syrians of Kurdish origin an "essential and integral part" of the Syrian people and affirms that their cultural and linguistic identity is an inseparable component of the nation's diverse identity. Under the decree, the Kurdish language is designated a national language alongside Arabic and may be taught in public and private schools in areas where Kurdish communities are significant. In a symbolic gesture, the decree also makes Nowruz, the Kurdish New Year celebrated on March 21, a paid official public holiday nationwide, describing it as a national celebration of spring and fraternity. The government has committed to protecting cultural and linguistic diversity and to safeguarding the rights of Kurds to preserve their heritage and arts while developing their mother tongue within the framework of Syria's sovereignty, reported Al Jazeera. Another key component of the decree is the abolition of discriminatory laws and measures dating back to a controversial 1962 census in Hasakah province, which stripped many Kurds of Syrian nationality. The new decree grants full citizenship and equal rights to all Kurdish Syrians, including those previously registered as stateless. The decree also prohibits ethnic or linguistic discrimination and requires state institutions and media to adopt an inclusive national discourse. Penalties are stipulated for those who incite ethnic strife, reflecting an official push toward national unity after more than a decade of conflict. However, the decree comes against a backdrop of continued conflict and mistrust. Recent fierce clashes between government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Aleppo left at least 23 people dead and displaced hundreds of thousands, underscoring persistent tensions. Negotiations between Damascus and Kurdish authorities to integrate Kurdish civil and military structures into the Syrian state have made limited progress, and many observers remain cautious about whether the decree will translate into lasting peace or tangible changes on the ground. Despite these challenges, Syrian officials and Kurdish representatives alike have hailed the decree as historic, marking the first formal recognition of Kurdish rights since Syria's independence in 1946.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The move, announced on Friday amid ongoing tensions in the countrys north, is being described by officials as a major step toward addressing decades of marginalisation and integrating Kurds more fully into Syrias national framework.

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has issued a landmark presidential decree that for the first time formally recognises the rights of the country's Kurdish minority, including recognising the Kurdish language as a national language and restoring citizenship to previously stateless Kurdish Syrians, reported Al Jazeera. The move, announced on Friday amid ongoing tensions in the country's north, is being described by officials as a major step toward addressing decades of marginalisation and integrating Kurds more fully into Syria's national framework. Decree No. 13 of 2026 declares Syrians of Kurdish origin an "essential and integral part" of the Syrian people and affirms that their cultural and linguistic identity is an inseparable component of the nation's diverse identity. Under the decree, the Kurdish language is designated a national language alongside Arabic and may be taught in public and private schools in areas where Kurdish communities are significant. In a symbolic gesture, the decree also makes Nowruz, the Kurdish New Year celebrated on March 21, a paid official public holiday nationwide, describing it as a national celebration of spring and fraternity. The government has committed to protecting cultural and linguistic diversity and to safeguarding the rights of Kurds to preserve their heritage and arts while developing their mother tongue within the framework of Syria's sovereignty, reported Al Jazeera. Another key component of the decree is the abolition of discriminatory laws and measures dating back to a controversial 1962 census in Hasakah province, which stripped many Kurds of Syrian nationality. The new decree grants full citizenship and equal rights to all Kurdish Syrians, including those previously registered as stateless. The decree also prohibits ethnic or linguistic discrimination and requires state institutions and media to adopt an inclusive national discourse. Penalties are stipulated for those who incite ethnic strife, reflecting an official push toward national unity after more than a decade of conflict. However, the decree comes against a backdrop of continued conflict and mistrust. Recent fierce clashes between government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Aleppo left at least 23 people dead and displaced hundreds of thousands, underscoring persistent tensions. Negotiations between Damascus and Kurdish authorities to integrate Kurdish civil and military structures into the Syrian state have made limited progress, and many observers remain cautious about whether the decree will translate into lasting peace or tangible changes on the ground. Despite these challenges, Syrian officials and Kurdish representatives alike have hailed the decree as historic, marking the first formal recognition of Kurdish rights since Syria's independence in 1946. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The move, announced on Friday amid ongoing tensions in the country's north, is being described by officials as a major step toward addressing decades of marginalisation and integrating Kurds more fully into Syria's national framework.

Syria issues historic decree recognising Kurdish language, rights in push for national inclusion

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 16) warned that the United States may pull out of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) if America’s allies do not agree to its bid to acquire Greenland. This comes after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on nation that don’t back his plan of acquiring the Arctic territory.When asked by a reporter whether he would “pull out of NATO if it doesn't help you acquire Greenland,” Trump responded by saying, “We’re going to see.”“NATO has been dealing with us on Greenland, we need Greenland for national security very badly. If we don’t have it we have a very big hole in terms of national security, especially in terms of the Golden Dome,” Trump added. He was referring to the multi-layer missile defence system that he believes is reliant on seizing control of Denmark’s Arctic territory.Trump earlier threatened to impose tariffs on countries that don’t support his plan to take over Greenland. Speaking at an event in the White House, Trump referred to the tariffs he slapped on pharmaceutical imports from the EU as part of his efforts to lower drug prices in the US, and said, “I may do that for Greenland too. I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security.”On Wednesday (Jan 14), the US president said that the United States need Greenland for its national security interests, warning that Russia or China could otherwise attempt to gain control of the strategically located Arctic territory.Meanwhile, NATO allies including Britain, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden have deployed some troops to Greenland against Trump’s repeated threats. In response, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told a briefing that the employment of European troops in Greenland has no impact on Trump’s plans to take over Greenland.“I don’t think troops in Europe impact the president’s decision-making process, nor does it impact his goal of the acquisition of Greenland at all,” she said.Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt and Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen also held talks with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House on Wednesday (Jan 14) that ended in “fundamental disagreement”.

US President Donald Trump warned the US could leave NATO if allies do not back his bid to acquire Greenland, calling it vital for national security. He also threatened tariffs on countries opposing the plan, despite European allies deploying troops and voicing opposition.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 16) warned that the United States may pull out of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) if America’s allies do not agree to its bid to acquire Greenland. This comes after Trump threatened to impose tariffs on nation that don’t back his plan of acquiring the Arctic territory. When asked by a reporter whether he would “pull out of NATO if it doesn't help you acquire Greenland,” Trump responded by saying, “We’re going to see.” “NATO has been dealing with us on Greenland, we need Greenland for national security very badly. If we don’t have it we have a very big hole in terms of national security, especially in terms of the Golden Dome,” Trump added. He was referring to the multi-layer missile defence system that he believes is reliant on seizing control of Denmark’s Arctic territory. Trump earlier threatened to impose tariffs on countries that don’t support his plan to take over Greenland. Speaking at an event in the White House, Trump referred to the tariffs he slapped on pharmaceutical imports from the EU as part of his efforts to lower drug prices in the US, and said, “I may do that for Greenland too. I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security.” On Wednesday (Jan 14), the US president said that the United States need Greenland for its national security interests, warning that Russia or China could otherwise attempt to gain control of the strategically located Arctic territory. Meanwhile, NATO allies including Britain, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden have deployed some troops to Greenland against Trump’s repeated threats. In response, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told a briefing that the employment of European troops in Greenland has no impact on Trump’s plans to take over Greenland. “I don’t think troops in Europe impact the president’s decision-making process, nor does it impact his goal of the acquisition of Greenland at all,” she said. Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt and Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen also held talks with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House on Wednesday (Jan 14) that ended in “fundamental disagreement”.

US President Donald Trump warned the US could leave NATO if allies do not back his bid to acquire Greenland, calling it vital for national security. He also threatened tariffs on countries opposing the plan, despite European allies deploying troops and voicing opposition.

Trump to pull out of NATO over Greenland? Here’s what US president said

Elon Musk's social media platform X will offer $1mn to the top-performing long-form article in the next payout period, to recognise and promote high-impact, original content. It was announced on Friday that the platform has closed its highest payout period since launching its monetisation platform and is further looking to expand the program to empower creators. It urged creators to write high-value, high-impact content that shapes conversations, breaking news and influences culture.&nbsp;“Our goal is to make X the best platform to earn a living from your content, and this is just the beginning," said the platform in a post.<h2>Who all are eligible?</h2>Only US based creator who are premium subscribers are qualified for the consideration of prize money. Content should be original and at least 1000 words, and it will be judged primarily on the home timeline impression and meaning views from premium users' feeds. Further content that is hateful, fraudulent or manipulative will not be eligible.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-teachers-imprisoned-negative-us-history-1768572305837">Elon Musk says teachers should be imprisoned for teaching 'negative' US history</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">We’re trying something new: we’re giving $1 million to the Top Article of the next payout period. We&#39;re doubling down on what creators on 𝕏 do best: writing. In 2026, our goal is to recognize high-value, high-impact content that shapes conversation, breaks news and moves… <a href="https://t.co/4hKBJNvNIg">pic.twitter.com/4hKBJNvNIg</a>&mdash; Creators (@XCreators) <a href="https://twitter.com/XCreators/status/2012306731867717852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Increased payout for creators</h2>According to its official account, X has doubled its revenue-sharing pool, which it claims will significantly increase the payout for the creator. The payout will be based on the ‘Verified Home Timeline’ impressions. It says that further, the app will add a detailed earnings dashboard in the creators' studio to track earnings in real-time. It further urged the creator to engage in longer-format content, as it performs well compared to shorter-form content.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We understand that some content formats require more effort and can have more impact than others. So, we may weight formats like Articles more heavily than short-form content,” said the platform in a post. It further said that it had extended access to Articles to all Premium users and powerful ways to publish long-form content. The platform also shared a guide to writing impactful articles that can be monetised.&nbsp;

Elon Musk-owned X will award $1 million to the best-performing long-form article as it doubles creator payouts and expands its monetisation programme.

Elon Musk's social media platform X will offer $1mn to the top-performing long-form article in the next payout period, to recognise and promote high-impact, original content. It was announced on Friday that the platform has closed its highest payout period since launching its monetisation platform and is further looking to expand the program to empower creators. It urged creators to write high-value, high-impact content that shapes conversations, breaking news and influences culture. “Our goal is to make X the best platform to earn a living from your content, and this is just the beginning," said the platform in a post. Who all are eligible? Only US based creator who are premium subscribers are qualified for the consideration of prize money. Content should be original and at least 1000 words, and it will be judged primarily on the home timeline impression and meaning views from premium users' feeds. Further content that is hateful, fraudulent or manipulative will not be eligible. Also Read: Elon Musk says teachers should be imprisoned for teaching 'negative' US history

Elon Musk-owned X will award $1 million to the best-performing long-form article as it doubles creator payouts and expands its monetisation programme.

X is offering $1mn prize for the top performing long-form article creator

Taking paracetamol during pregnancy is safe and does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD or other developmental conditions in children, shows a major new scientific review. The findings are in direct contradiction of the controversial claims made by US President Donald Trump a few months back. In September, Trump told pregnant women in the United States to avoid Tylenol and “tough it out,” and tied the painkiller, which is known as paracetamol outside America, to autism. Researchers say the evidence presented in the latest review published in The Lancet journal is strong enough to put the debate to rest.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-s-on-trump-s-gaza-board-of-peace-from-tony-blair-to-jared-kushner-in-pics-1768634224725">Who’s on Trump’s Gaza ‘Board of Peace’? From Tony Blair to Jared Kushner | In Pics</a><h2>Findings contradict Trump claims</h2>The review directly contradicts comments made last year by Trump, who claimed paracetamol was dangerous in pregnancy and urged women to avoid it. In a speech that was reminiscent of his anti-vaccination push, Donald Trump repeatedly said, “Don’t take it (Tylenol),” adding that pregnant women should only consider acetaminophen, the main ingredient in Tylenol, if battling an “extremely high fever.” He then told them to “fight like hell not to take it.”The US president claimed that, “There's a rumour—and I don't know if it's so or not—that Cuba, they don't have Tylenol because they don't have the money for Tylenol. And they have virtually no autism.” He also contended that the Amish, traditionalist people known for their horse-drawn carts and rejection of modern technology, "have essentially no autism".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-pregnant-women-to-tough-it-out-without-paracetamol-claims-amish-have-no-autism-because-they-lack-tylenol-1758589438052">Trump tells pregnant women to ‘tough it out’ without paracetamol, claims Amish have ‘no autism’ because they lack Tylenol</a>Those remarks drew sharp criticism from medical bodies worldwide and left many pregnant women uncertain about what pain relief was safe.<h2>What the research examined</h2>Experts say this latest research, published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women’s Health, is among the most rigorous analyses ever conducted on the issue. The review analysed 43 high-quality studies involving hundreds of thousands of women. Crucially, it focused on robust comparisons, including sibling studies, which allow researchers to rule out different genes and family environments as explanations for developmental outcomes.The authors also prioritised studies with low risk of bias and those that followed children for more than five years. Across this data, they found no evidence linking paracetamol use in pregnancy to autism, ADHD or intellectual disability.Lead author Professor Asma Khalil said, "When we did this analysis, we found no links, there was no association, there's no evidence that paracetamol increases the risk of autism. The message is clear – paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided".<h2>Why this matters for mothers</h2>Medical guidance already warns that untreated pain or high fever during pregnancy can itself be harmful, increasing the risk of miscarriage, premature birth or developmental complications. Paracetamol is widely recommended as the first-line treatment because alternatives such as ibuprofen carry known risks later in pregnancy. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A major new scientific review has put to rest fears around using paracetamol during pregnancy, directly contradicting claims made by US President Donald Trump last year. Here’s what this really means, and why it matters.

Taking paracetamol during pregnancy is safe and does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD or other developmental conditions in children, shows a major new scientific review. The findings are in direct contradiction of the controversial claims made by US President Donald Trump a few months back. In September, Trump told pregnant women in the United States to avoid Tylenol and “tough it out,” and tied the painkiller, which is known as paracetamol outside America, to autism. Researchers say the evidence presented in the latest review published in The Lancet journal is strong enough to put the debate to rest. Also read | Who’s on Trump’s Gaza ‘Board of Peace’? From Tony Blair to Jared Kushner | In Pics Findings contradict Trump claims The review directly contradicts comments made last year by Trump, who claimed paracetamol was dangerous in pregnancy and urged women to avoid it. In a speech that was reminiscent of his anti-vaccination push, Donald Trump repeatedly said, “Don’t take it (Tylenol),” adding that pregnant women should only consider acetaminophen, the main ingredient in Tylenol, if battling an “extremely high fever.” He then told them to “fight like hell not to take it.” The US president claimed that, “There's a rumour—and I don't know if it's so or not—that Cuba, they don't have Tylenol because they don't have the money for Tylenol. And they have virtually no autism.” He also contended that the Amish, traditionalist people known for their horse-drawn carts and rejection of modern technology, "have essentially no autism". Also read | Trump tells pregnant women to ‘tough it out’ without paracetamol, claims Amish have ‘no autism’ because they lack Tylenol Those remarks drew sharp criticism from medical bodies worldwide and left many pregnant women uncertain about what pain relief was safe. What the research examined Experts say this latest research, published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women’s Health, is among the most rigorous analyses ever conducted on the issue. The review analysed 43 high-quality studies involving hundreds of thousands of women. Crucially, it focused on robust comparisons, including sibling studies, which allow researchers to rule out different genes and family environments as explanations for developmental outcomes. The authors also prioritised studies with low risk of bias and those that followed children for more than five years. Across this data, they found no evidence linking paracetamol use in pregnancy to autism, ADHD or intellectual disability. Lead author Professor Asma Khalil said, "When we did this analysis, we found no links, there was no association, there's no evidence that paracetamol increases the risk of autism. The message is clear – paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided". Why this matters for mothers Medical guidance already warns that untreated pain or high fever during pregnancy can itself be harmful, increasing the risk of miscarriage, premature birth or developmental complications. Paracetamol is widely recommended as the first-line treatment because alternatives such as ibuprofen carry known risks later in pregnancy.

A major new scientific review has put to rest fears around using paracetamol during pregnancy, directly contradicting claims made by US President Donald Trump last year. Here’s what this really means, and why it matters.

Science debunks Trump's claim: Paracetamol in pregnancy not linked to autism, finds Lancet study

In an unusual move, US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 16) thanked the Iranian government for not following through on the execution of hundreds of political prisoners. This comes a day after the White House said that Iran halted executions under pressure from the US president over its crackdown against nationwide protests. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has refused to rule out a possible military intervention in the Islamic Republic.“Iran cancelled the hanging of over 800 people,” Trump claimed as he spoke to reporters at the White House before leaving for Florida.In a post on his Truth Social, Trump said that he “greatly respects” that all scheduled hangings have been cancelled. He also thanked the leadership of Iran.“I greatly respect the fact that all scheduled hangings, which were to take place yesterday (Over 800 of them), have been cancelled by the leadership of Iran. Thank you!” he wrote.The appreciation came despite Trump’s repeated threats of military action in Iran if its government triggered mass killings during widespread protests across the country that have quieted now.Hundreds have been killed amid demonstrations that started weeks ago over the rising cost of living in the country.“The president understands today that 800 executions that were scheduled and supposed to take place yesterday were halted,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday (Jan 15).“All options remain on the table for the president,” she said, adding that Trump had warned Tehran of “grave consequences” if the killing of protesters continued.Trump earlier said that he received assurance from “very important sources on the other side” that Iran would not go ahead with the executions.On Thursday, a senior Saudi official told AFP that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman led efforts to talk Trump out of an attack on Iran, fearing “grave blowbacks in the region.”The Gulf nations “led a long, frantic, diplomatic last-minute effort to convince President Trump to give Iran a chance to show good intention,” the official said.

US President Donald Trump thanked Iran for halting the execution of over 800 political prisoners, claiming US pressure led to the move. Despite this, his administration has not ruled out military action even as protests have recently subsided.

In an unusual move, US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 16) thanked the Iranian government for not following through on the execution of hundreds of political prisoners. This comes a day after the White House said that Iran halted executions under pressure from the US president over its crackdown against nationwide protests. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has refused to rule out a possible military intervention in the Islamic Republic. “Iran cancelled the hanging of over 800 people,” Trump claimed as he spoke to reporters at the White House before leaving for Florida. In a post on his Truth Social, Trump said that he “greatly respects” that all scheduled hangings have been cancelled. He also thanked the leadership of Iran. “I greatly respect the fact that all scheduled hangings, which were to take place yesterday (Over 800 of them), have been cancelled by the leadership of Iran. Thank you!” he wrote. The appreciation came despite Trump’s repeated threats of military action in Iran if its government triggered mass killings during widespread protests across the country that have quieted now. Hundreds have been killed amid demonstrations that started weeks ago over the rising cost of living in the country. “The president understands today that 800 executions that were scheduled and supposed to take place yesterday were halted,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday (Jan 15). “All options remain on the table for the president,” she said, adding that Trump had warned Tehran of “grave consequences” if the killing of protesters continued. Trump earlier said that he received assurance from “very important sources on the other side” that Iran would not go ahead with the executions. On Thursday, a senior Saudi official told AFP that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman led efforts to talk Trump out of an attack on Iran, fearing “grave blowbacks in the region.” The Gulf nations “led a long, frantic, diplomatic last-minute effort to convince President Trump to give Iran a chance to show good intention,” the official said.

US President Donald Trump thanked Iran for halting the execution of over 800 political prisoners, claiming US pressure led to the move. Despite this, his administration has not ruled out military action even as protests have recently subsided.

‘I greatly respect the fact...’: Did Trump just ‘thank’ Iranian leadership for cancelling executions?

Who’s who on Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace: Chaired by Donald Trump, the post-war Gaza body features Tony Blair, Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff, World Bank chief Ajay Banga and others. Details with pictures below.

Who’s on Trump’s Gaza ‘Board of Peace’? From Tony Blair to Jared Kushner |  In Pics

United States President Donald Trump has often claimed to have stopped wars by mediating between countries for which he sees himself worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize. This time again he has said that the United States is ready to resume mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia over the dispute of sharing Nile river waters between both the countries.&nbsp;Trump wrote to a letter to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Friday in which he offered to end the dispute.&nbsp;"In the spirit of our personal friendship and America's commitment to peace and the well-being of Egypt's people, I am ready to restart US mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia to responsibly resolve the question of 'The Nile Water Sharing' once and for all," read the letter written Sisi by Trump.&nbsp;“My team and I understand the deep significance of the Nile River to Egypt and its people, and I want to help you achieve an outcome that assures the water needs of Egypt, the Republic of the Sudan, and Ethiopia, long into the future,” read the letter further.&nbsp;Trump took to Truth Social to confirm the news by posting the letter on the microblogging site.“The United States affirms that no state in this region should unilaterally control the precious resources of the Nile, and disadvantage its neighbors in the process,” the letter read.

<h2>What is the dispute?</h2>Ethiopia’s management of major upstream dam projects, mainly the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a concern for Egypt that argues it will affect farming in its country, drinking water and economic stability. While Ethiopia having a population of more than 120 million people sees the dam vital for its economic growth.&nbsp;Egypt claims that the dam is a violation of the international treaties and could lead to drought and floods.&nbsp;Sudan, which lies downstream of Ethiopia and upstream of Egypt, also has questioned the security and safety of the dam.&nbsp;

Trump took to Truth Social to confirm the news by posting the letter sent to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Friday on the microblogging site.

United States President Donald Trump has often claimed to have stopped wars by mediating between countries for which he sees himself worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize. This time again he has said that the United States is ready to resume mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia over the dispute of sharing Nile river waters between both the countries. Trump wrote to a letter to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Friday in which he offered to end the dispute. "In the spirit of our personal friendship and America's commitment to peace and the well-being of Egypt's people, I am ready to restart US mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia to responsibly resolve the question of 'The Nile Water Sharing' once and for all," read the letter written Sisi by Trump. “My team and I understand the deep significance of the Nile River to Egypt and its people, and I want to help you achieve an outcome that assures the water needs of Egypt, the Republic of the Sudan, and Ethiopia, long into the future,” read the letter further. Trump took to Truth Social to confirm the news by posting the letter on the microblogging site. “The United States affirms that no state in this region should unilaterally control the precious resources of the Nile, and disadvantage its neighbors in the process,” the letter read.

Trump took to Truth Social to confirm the news by posting the letter sent to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Friday on the microblogging site.

Trump offers another mediation, this time between Egypt and Ethiopia over Nile river water dispute. Here's what he said

US President Donald Trump was asked by a reporter why his administration would work with Delcy Rodriguez, the interim leader of Venezuela. While explaining his alignment with the remnants of Nicolas Maduro, Trump admitted that he didn't want Venezuela to be the next Iraq. Trump previously, in 2016, blamed Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for the instability in the Middle East and accused them of being the “founders of ISIS”.A reporter confronted Donald Trump on Friday afternoon, asking why he would want the Nobel Prize of someone else? Trump explained that because she had offered it to him. “And I thought that was a very nice gesture. And by the way, I think she’s a very fine woman, and we’ll be talking again.” The reporter asked if she was a nice person, then why was he backing Delcy Rodriguez to be the Venezuelan President? Trump then elaborated on how US strategic mistakes in Iraq led to the creation of ISIS, and he did not want Venezuela to be the next Iraq.&nbsp;Also Read: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mar-a-lago-dystopian-furry-gala-elite-decadence-1768555729893">Dystopian' and furry-themed gala hosted in Trump's Mar-a-Lago, sparks ridicule</a>“Well, if you ever remember a place called Iraq, where everybody was fired, every single person, the police, the generals, everybody was fired, and they ended up being ISIS. Instead of just getting down to business, they ended up being ISIS, so I remember that,” said Trump.Mainstream media analysts point out that the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, the removal of Saddam Hussein, and the decision to dissolve the existing Sunni military created a power vacuum. Further torture and humiliation in existing prison facilities like Camp Bucca resulted in psychological trauma and dissociative personality disorder, which resulted in the fostering of the extremist ideology ISIS. However, mainstream scholars disagree with Trump's claims that the US directly founded ISIS.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Trump says US support for interim leader Delcy Rodríguez aims to prevent Venezuela from becoming “another Iraq,” citing mistakes that helped ISIS grow

US President Donald Trump was asked by a reporter why his administration would work with Delcy Rodriguez, the interim leader of Venezuela. While explaining his alignment with the remnants of Nicolas Maduro, Trump admitted that he didn't want Venezuela to be the next Iraq. Trump previously, in 2016, blamed Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for the instability in the Middle East and accused them of being the “founders of ISIS”. A reporter confronted Donald Trump on Friday afternoon, asking why he would want the Nobel Prize of someone else? Trump explained that because she had offered it to him. “And I thought that was a very nice gesture. And by the way, I think she’s a very fine woman, and we’ll be talking again.” The reporter asked if she was a nice person, then why was he backing Delcy Rodriguez to be the Venezuelan President? Trump then elaborated on how US strategic mistakes in Iraq led to the creation of ISIS, and he did not want Venezuela to be the next Iraq. Also Read: 'Dystopian' and furry-themed gala hosted in Trump's Mar-a-Lago, sparks ridicule “Well, if you ever remember a place called Iraq, where everybody was fired, every single person, the police, the generals, everybody was fired, and they ended up being ISIS. Instead of just getting down to business, they ended up being ISIS, so I remember that,” said Trump. Mainstream media analysts point out that the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, the removal of Saddam Hussein, and the decision to dissolve the existing Sunni military created a power vacuum. Further torture and humiliation in existing prison facilities like Camp Bucca resulted in psychological trauma and dissociative personality disorder, which resulted in the fostering of the extremist ideology ISIS. However, mainstream scholars disagree with Trump's claims that the US directly founded ISIS.

President Trump says US support for interim leader Delcy Rodríguez aims to prevent Venezuela from becoming “another Iraq,” citing mistakes that helped ISIS grow

Trump again claims US created ISIS to explain backing for Delcy Rodriguez

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Thursday (Jan 15) presented US President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace medal at the White House as she tries to win over the POTUS, who has been sidelined since ousting Nicolas Maduro. Following the gesture, the Nobel Committee has broken its silence, saying that the Peace Prize is inseparable from the person who won it, downplaying Trump getting the medal. The US president sought the world’s most prestigious peace prize since he came to the office in January last year, claiming he has ended several wars around the world.In a statement, the Oslo-based committee said, “Regardless of what may happen to the medal, the diploma, or the prize money, it is and remains the original laureate who is recorded in history as the recipient of the prize.”It further added, “Even if the medal or diploma later comes into someone else’s possession, this does not alter who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.” The Nobel Committee also said that it would not comment “on Peace Prize laureates or the political processes that they are engaged in.”The committee added that there were no restrictions on what the laureates did with the medal, diploma and money they received as part of the Nobel Prize, listing several laureates who sold or gave away their medals.Trump had sought last year’s Nobel Peace Prize, claiming he had stopped eight wars, including conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, Thailand and Cambodia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Egypt and Ethiopia, Serbia and Kosovo, and Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the prize went to Machado, who escaped from Venezuela by boat to collect her award in Oslo last month.According to the award citation, Machado won hers for “her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump at the White House, but the Nobel Committee said the prize remains inseparable from the original laureate, regardless of who holds the medal.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Thursday (Jan 15) presented US President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace medal at the White House as she tries to win over the POTUS, who has been sidelined since ousting Nicolas Maduro. Following the gesture, the Nobel Committee has broken its silence, saying that the Peace Prize is inseparable from the person who won it, downplaying Trump getting the medal. The US president sought the world’s most prestigious peace prize since he came to the office in January last year, claiming he has ended several wars around the world. In a statement, the Oslo-based committee said, “Regardless of what may happen to the medal, the diploma, or the prize money, it is and remains the original laureate who is recorded in history as the recipient of the prize.” It further added, “Even if the medal or diploma later comes into someone else’s possession, this does not alter who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.” The Nobel Committee also said that it would not comment “on Peace Prize laureates or the political processes that they are engaged in.” The committee added that there were no restrictions on what the laureates did with the medal, diploma and money they received as part of the Nobel Prize, listing several laureates who sold or gave away their medals. Trump had sought last year’s Nobel Peace Prize, claiming he had stopped eight wars, including conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, Thailand and Cambodia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Egypt and Ethiopia, Serbia and Kosovo, and Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the prize went to Machado, who escaped from Venezuela by boat to collect her award in Oslo last month. According to the award citation, Machado won hers for “her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump at the White House, but the Nobel Committee said the prize remains inseparable from the original laureate, regardless of who holds the medal.

‘If medal comes into someone else’s possession…’: Nobel Committee breaks silence after Machado ‘presents’ her medal to Trump

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 16) announced the who's who of the Gaza Board of Peace. The POTUS handed a prominent role in post-war Gaza to former British prime minister Tony Blair, while appointing a senior US military officer to lead a new international security force for the battered Palestinian territory.<h2>Who's who of Gaza 'Board of Peace'</h2>Trump announced the full membership of what he has branded a Gaza Board of Peace, a body he has said will oversee reconstruction and governance in the enclave after more than two years of devastating Israeli bombardment. The board is dominated by Americans.Alongside Blair, Trump named a cluster of close allies to the board, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff, a longtime business partner turned negotiator. Other members include World Bank president Ajay Banga, financier Marc Rowan, and National Security Council aide Robert Gabriel.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-unveils-greatest-and-most-prestigious-gaza-board-of-peace-who-s-on-it-1768531943250">Trump unveils 'Greatest and Most Prestigious' Gaza Board of Peace</a>On the security front, Trump appointed US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an International Stabilisation Force tasked with securing Gaza and training a new police force to replace Hamas. Jeffers previously oversaw ceasefire monitoring between Israel and Lebanon.Trump also named a separate advisory board that includes Blair, Witkoff, Mladenov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, alongside representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the UAE and UN humanitarian coordinator Sigrid Kaag.The White House said the board will focus on "governance capacity-building, regional relations, reconstruction, investment attraction, large-scale funding and capital mobilisation."<h2>Why Blair's appointment is controversial</h2>Blair’s appointment immediately drew attention. He remains a deeply divisive figure in the Middle East because of his role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Trump himself acknowledged those sensitivities last year, saying he wanted to ensure Blair would be an “acceptable choice to everybody.” After leaving office in 2007, Blair spent years focused on Israeli-Palestinian diplomacy as the Quartet’s representative.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-it-will-immediately-sever-all-contact-with-several-un-bodies-full-list-here-1768358059450">Israel says it will 'immediately sever all contact' with several UN bodies | FULL LIST HERE</a>The board members' announcements came as Israel confirmed fresh strikes on Gaza, accusing Hamas of a "blatant violation" of the ceasefire declared in October, even as Washington said the plan had entered a second phase focused on disarmament. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has unveiled the full lineup of his Gaza Board of Peace, giving former UK prime minister Tony Blair a prominent role in post-war governance and appointing US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an international security force in Gaza.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 16) announced the who's who of the Gaza Board of Peace. The POTUS handed a prominent role in post-war Gaza to former British prime minister Tony Blair, while appointing a senior US military officer to lead a new international security force for the battered Palestinian territory. Who's who of Gaza 'Board of Peace' Trump announced the full membership of what he has branded a Gaza Board of Peace, a body he has said will oversee reconstruction and governance in the enclave after more than two years of devastating Israeli bombardment. The board is dominated by Americans. Alongside Blair, Trump named a cluster of close allies to the board, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff, a longtime business partner turned negotiator. Other members include World Bank president Ajay Banga, financier Marc Rowan, and National Security Council aide Robert Gabriel. Also read | Trump unveils 'Greatest and Most Prestigious' Gaza Board of Peace On the security front, Trump appointed US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an International Stabilisation Force tasked with securing Gaza and training a new police force to replace Hamas. Jeffers previously oversaw ceasefire monitoring between Israel and Lebanon. Trump also named a separate advisory board that includes Blair, Witkoff, Mladenov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, alongside representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the UAE and UN humanitarian coordinator Sigrid Kaag. The White House said the board will focus on "governance capacity-building, regional relations, reconstruction, investment attraction, large-scale funding and capital mobilisation." Why Blair's appointment is controversial Blair’s appointment immediately drew attention. He remains a deeply divisive figure in the Middle East because of his role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Trump himself acknowledged those sensitivities last year, saying he wanted to ensure Blair would be an “acceptable choice to everybody.” After leaving office in 2007, Blair spent years focused on Israeli-Palestinian diplomacy as the Quartet’s representative. Also read | Israel says it will 'immediately sever all contact' with several UN bodies | FULL LIST HERE The board members' announcements came as Israel confirmed fresh strikes on Gaza, accusing Hamas of a "blatant violation" of the ceasefire declared in October, even as Washington said the plan had entered a second phase focused on disarmament.

US President Donald Trump has unveiled the full lineup of his Gaza Board of Peace, giving former UK prime minister Tony Blair a prominent role in post-war governance and appointing US Major General Jasper Jeffers to lead an international security force in Gaza.

Trump stacks Gaza ‘board of peace’ with allies, puts US in driver’s seat: Here's who made the list

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