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US President Donald Trump, on Friday (January 2), in a Truth Social post, said that he is in perfect health and that he has passed the test for the third straight time. He wrote, "The White House Doctors have just reported that I am in “PERFECT HEALTH,” and that I “ACED” (Meaning, was correct on 100% of the questions asked!), for the third straight time, my Cognitive Examination, something which no other President, or previous Vice President, was willing to take. P.S., I strongly believe that anyone running for President, or Vice President, should be mandatorily forced to take a strong, meaningful, and proven Cognitive Examination. Our great Country cannot be run by “STUPID” or INCOMPETENT PEOPLE! President DJT.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/warren-buffett-in-last-interview-as-berkshire-hathaway-ceo-says-firm-will-last-another-century-1767353287469">Warren Buffett, in last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, says firm will last another century</a><h2>Read the post here</h2>

In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, US President Donald Trump addressed concerns about his health, including the noticeable bruises on his hands, an MRI he had, and his tendency to nod off during public meetings. Trump attributed his health to "very good genetics" and offered a rare glimpse into his medical habits, some of which he admitted were driven by "superstition." His comments contrasted with the more cautious explanations provided by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt in the past months.&nbsp;Since his return to office in January, questions about Trump’s health have persisted, especially after photos showing dark bruises on his hands circulated. Leavitt had previously brushed off these concerns, often attributing the bruises to frequent handshaking or his daily aspirin use. However, Trump revealed a different explanation. He confirmed that he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin each day—four times the typical low-dose amount—despite doctors advising him to reduce it. Trump explained that this long-standing habit was tied to superstition, noting that he believes aspirin helps thin his blood, and he doesn’t want to risk "thick blood" running through his heart.

I am in 'PERFECT HEALTH', says US President Donald Trump in his latest Truth Social post

US President Donald Trump, on Friday (January 2), in a Truth Social post, said that he is in perfect health and that he has passed the test for the third straight time. He wrote, "The White House Doctors have just reported that I am in “PERFECT HEALTH,” and that I “ACED” (Meaning, was correct on 100% of the questions asked!), for the third straight time, my Cognitive Examination, something which no other President, or previous Vice President, was willing to take. P.S., I strongly believe that anyone running for President, or Vice President, should be mandatorily forced to take a strong, meaningful, and proven Cognitive Examination. Our great Country cannot be run by “STUPID” or INCOMPETENT PEOPLE! President DJT. Also Read: Warren Buffett, in last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, says firm will last another century Read the post here

Donald Trump, in his latest post on Truth Social said that he's in "perfect health" and aced his third cognitive exam, suggesting all presidential candidates should take a similar test

In his last interview as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has said &nbsp;the holding firm is uniquely positioned to endure for the next century. Buffett officially stepped down as CEO on the last day of 2025, handing the role to his successor Greg Abel.<h2>What Buffett said about future of Berkshire Hathaway</h2>Buffett formally relinquished the CEO role on Thursday (Dec 31), after 60 years at the helm that transformed the company from a failing textile business into a trillion-dollar conglomerate. Berkshire now owns or has stakes in companies spanning insurance, railways, energy and consumer brands.&nbsp;As Buffett leaves, Berkshire has than $300 billion in cash. “It has a better chance of being here 100 years from now than any company I can think of,” Buffett said in an interview with CNBC channel.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-we-blew-it-warren-buffett-s-6-biggest-investment-errors-and-missed-bets-1767258374141">‘We blew it’: Warren Buffett’s 6 biggest investment errors and missed bets</a><h2>Buffett is full of praise for successor Abel</h2>Buffett praised his successor Abel for decisiveness and judgement. “Greg will be the decider…I’d rather have Greg handling my money than any of the top investment advisers or any of the top CEOs in the United States,” he said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed</a>His comments came as some investors had concerns after Buffett announced his retirement in May last year. &nbsp;They had asked if Abel could manage Berkshire’s businesses and investment portfolio while sustaining its premium valuation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/warren-buffett-exits-as-berkshire-hathaway-ceo-what-happens-next-as-the-oracle-of-omaha-goes-quiet-sort-of-life-and-career-what-you-should-know-1767245230739">Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’?</a>Dismissing the concerns, Buffet described Abel as a ‘grounded, sensible leader’ who lives a low-key life away from the limelight.&nbsp;“He’s not a distorted individual," Buffet said, adding that if Abel's neighbours didn’t know who he was, they wouldn’t have any idea he was about to lead a company with nearly 400,000 employees.<h2>What is Buffett going to do, in Buffett's words</h2>In the interview, Buffet indicated he will have a reduced public presence, adding that he will not speak at Berkshire’s annual shareholder meeting this year, but will still attend. &nbsp;“Everything will be the same,” he said, adding that he will remain seated with the board at the meeting.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/7-timeless-investment-lessons-from-warren-buffett-every-investor-must-know-1767276943779">7 timeless investment lessons from Warren Buffett every investor must know</a><h2>Buffett’s exit: What comes next</h2>Buffett, who stepping aside as CEO at the age of 95, will continue to remain the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His will be an advisory and oversight role, without much public appearances.&nbsp;Day-to-day leadership now passes to new CEO Abel, who will be the ultimate decision-maker across Berkshire’s companies and capital allocation.&nbsp;Groomed for the role for years now, Abel was leading Berkshire’s non-insurance businesses. This is &nbsp;a clear and deliberate succession, rather than an abrupt change.

Warren Buffett, in his last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, backed his successor Greg Abel and shared what he plans to do next


In his last interview as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has said the holding firm is uniquely positioned to endure for the next century. Buffett officially stepped down as CEO on the last day of 2025, handing the role to his successor Greg Abel. What Buffett said about future of Berkshire Hathaway Buffett formally relinquished the CEO role on Thursday (Dec 31), after 60 years at the helm that transformed the company from a failing textile business into a trillion-dollar conglomerate. Berkshire now owns or has stakes in companies spanning insurance, railways, energy and consumer brands. As Buffett leaves, Berkshire has than $300 billion in cash. “It has a better chance of being here 100 years from now than any company I can think of,” Buffett said in an interview with CNBC channel. Also read: ‘We blew it’: Warren Buffett’s 6 biggest investment errors and missed bets Buffett is full of praise for successor Abel Buffett praised his successor Abel for decisiveness and judgement. “Greg will be the decider…I’d rather have Greg handling my money than any of the top investment advisers or any of the top CEOs in the United States,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed His comments came as some investors had concerns after Buffett announced his retirement in May last year. They had asked if Abel could manage Berkshire’s businesses and investment portfolio while sustaining its premium valuation. Also read: Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’? Dismissing the concerns, Buffet described Abel as a ‘grounded, sensible leader’ who lives a low-key life away from the limelight. “He’s not a distorted individual," Buffet said, adding that if Abel's neighbours didn’t know who he was, they wouldn’t have any idea he was about to lead a company with nearly 400,000 employees. What is Buffett going to do, in Buffett's words In the interview, Buffet indicated he will have a reduced public presence, adding that he will not speak at Berkshire’s annual shareholder meeting this year, but will still attend. “Everything will be the same,” he said, adding that he will remain seated with the board at the meeting. Also read: 7 timeless investment lessons from Warren Buffett every investor must know Buffett’s exit: What comes next Buffett, who stepping aside as CEO at the age of 95, will continue to remain the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His will be an advisory and oversight role, without much public appearances. Day-to-day leadership now passes to new CEO Abel, who will be the ultimate decision-maker across Berkshire’s companies and capital allocation. Groomed for the role for years now, Abel was leading Berkshire’s non-insurance businesses. This is a clear and deliberate succession, rather than an abrupt change.

Warren Buffett, in his last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, backed his successor Greg Abel and shared what he plans to do next

Warren Buffett, in last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, says firm will last another century

New Delhi: Pakistan has renewed disinformation efforts on social media to promote claims of strikes on Indian military facilities in Punjab during last year’s brief conflict with India. The current dis-info campaign, active on platforms including X, features fake satellite images said to show damage at sites around Amritsar and other locations in Punjab, presented as evidence of Pakistani missile or drone strikes carried out in May 2025.&nbsp;Independent examination of the images, including side-by-side comparison with current and historical open-source satellite data, shows no visible destruction. The structures at the locations remain undamaged, with no craters, debris scatter, scorch marks, collapsed buildings or other indicators consistent with precision strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;The material surfaced seven months after the four-day conflict, which began on 7 May 2025. India launched Operation Sindoor in response to a 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam, that killed 26 civilians. The attack was done by Pakistan trained terrorists, all of whom were neutralised by Indian forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian forces conducted precision strikes on several sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir linked to UN listed terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. A ceasefire took effect on 10 May. At the time of the conflict, Pakistan released statements about striking Indian facilities in Punjab but did not provide verifiable satellite imagery or other supporting evidence. The images now in circulation lack timestamps, metadata identifying the satellite source, and confirmation from established commercial or intelligence providers.&nbsp;Open-source analysts have noted that the visuals use selective framing and omit expected signs of battle damage. Comparative imagery of the same sites taken before, during and after the conflict period shows no observable change.The renewed circulation of these images follows earlier patterns of online narratives during and after the conflict, including unverified assertions about strike outcomes and victory claims. It also shows Pakistan's continued support to dis-information as part of statecraft.

Independent examination of the images, including side-by-side comparison with current and historical open-source satellite data, shows no visible destruction. 

New Delhi: Pakistan has renewed disinformation efforts on social media to promote claims of strikes on Indian military facilities in Punjab during last year’s brief conflict with India. The current dis-info campaign, active on platforms including X, features fake satellite images said to show damage at sites around Amritsar and other locations in Punjab, presented as evidence of Pakistani missile or drone strikes carried out in May 2025. Independent examination of the images, including side-by-side comparison with current and historical open-source satellite data, shows no visible destruction. The structures at the locations remain undamaged, with no craters, debris scatter, scorch marks, collapsed buildings or other indicators consistent with precision strikes. The material surfaced seven months after the four-day conflict, which began on 7 May 2025. India launched Operation Sindoor in response to a 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam, that killed 26 civilians. The attack was done by Pakistan trained terrorists, all of whom were neutralised by Indian forces. Indian forces conducted precision strikes on several sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir linked to UN listed terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. A ceasefire took effect on 10 May. At the time of the conflict, Pakistan released statements about striking Indian facilities in Punjab but did not provide verifiable satellite imagery or other supporting evidence. The images now in circulation lack timestamps, metadata identifying the satellite source, and confirmation from established commercial or intelligence providers. Open-source analysts have noted that the visuals use selective framing and omit expected signs of battle damage. Comparative imagery of the same sites taken before, during and after the conflict period shows no observable change. The renewed circulation of these images follows earlier patterns of online narratives during and after the conflict, including unverified assertions about strike outcomes and victory claims. It also shows Pakistan's continued support to dis-information as part of statecraft.

Independent examination of the images, including side-by-side comparison with current and historical open-source satellite data, shows no visible destruction.&nbsp;

Pakistan uses disinformation to revive May 2025 conflict claims

On Friday (Jan 2), Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the mayor of New York. The 34-year-old has been garnering attention since the very beginning, and music has played a pivotal role in his campaigns. And now, the famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious. The Toronto-based Punjabi artiste was seen singing his track ‘Gaddi Red Challenger’, and New York’s new mayor was singing as he greeted all the attendees with his wife, Rama Duwaji.

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The singer took to his social media account, “Thank you Mr Mayor, for having me perform at the inauguration.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEW YORK VICH MUNDA RENDA!!!! 🗽🗽🗽🗽 Thank you Mr Mayor for having me perform at the inauguration <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zohrankmamdani</a> ❤️😎🙏 <a href="https://t.co/VfXT9WLXjW">pic.twitter.com/VfXT9WLXjW</a>&mdash; Babbu Beard (@babbulicious) <a href="https://twitter.com/babbulicious/status/2006840659769176305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Donald Trump has been critical of Mamdani in the past he had expressed his views about the Democratic Party candidate, Zohran Mamdani, who was then the front-runner in New York mayoral elections. US President thought the latter ‘will completely crush New York City’. White House press secretary Karoline Leavittin a briefing said Mamdani ‘pedals anti-semitism, praises pro-Hamas groups, wants Israel abolished and believes wealthy Americans should not exist’. After all the differences in opinion, Mamdani won and has taken over as the voice of NYC.&nbsp;During the interaction with the media, when asked if Trump wants the 33-year-old mayoral candidate deported as per his recent calls. Leavittresponded, "I haven't heard him say that. I haven't heard him call for that. But certainly he does not want this individual to be elected. I was just speaking to him about it and [Mamdani's] radical policies that will completely crush New York City, which is obviously a city that the president holds near and dear to his heart.”&nbsp;"But surely someone who holds these values and is quite literally a communist and condemns every value that makes this country great: common sense, law and order, low taxes, working hard, and earning your keep in this country. He's against all of that. And I think the president would find it difficult to work with someone like that, if he is elected. I'm sure you'll hear more from the president on that, but we'll have to see. Hopefully, the voters of New York City choose wisely,” Leavitt said when asked if Trump is willing to work with Mamdani if elected as the mayor of New York.

The famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious. 

On Friday (Jan 2), Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the mayor of New York. The 34-year-old has been garnering attention since the very beginning, and music has played a pivotal role in his campaigns. And now, the famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious. The Toronto-based Punjabi artiste was seen singing his track ‘Gaddi Red Challenger’, and New York’s new mayor was singing as he greeted all the attendees with his wife, Rama Duwaji.

The famous New York subway station has taken centre stage as videos of him grooving to upbeat Punjabi music went viral. Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony ended with a power-packed performance by singer Babbulicious.&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani grooves to Babbulicious' rager song after taking oath - Watch

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, on his first day in office, has revoked executive orders of his predecessor Eric Adams that banned protests in front of synagogues, the Boycott, Divestment and Sanction movement and the IHRA definition of anti semitism. This was one of the key poll promises of Mamdani's campaign. On January 1, 2026, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani took Mayoral responsibility of New York City, widely regarded as the financial capital of the world and the epitome of global capitalism.The previous executive order was issued by Eric Adams on September 26, 2024, who was indicted for charges related to bribery, wire fraud and campaign finance offences. Among the revoked orders, the most controversial yet unexpected was the BDS movement, which advocates for economic/consumer, cultural, academic, boycott and divestment from any organisation, corporation that is complicit in Israeli occupation and urges economic sanctions against them. The movement's impact was accentuated by the ICJ, which found Israel guilty of apartheid against Palestinians and its military occupation and annexation of the Palestinian Territory as illegal.&nbsp;Zohran Mamdani further revoked the ban on protests in front of synagogues, which directed the New York Police Department to reassess its handling of protests at houses of worship.&nbsp;The other controversial decision was the revocation of the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of Anti-semitism, which asserts, "Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. The Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities." The definition was seen by scholars as a weaponisation of antisemitism, using language as a site of “power and struggle.”&nbsp;At the same time, Mamdani vowed to continue, the newly founded Office to Combat Antisemitism. The decision came as a surprise, as many had expected the incoming mayor to shut down the office opened in May. In his oath, he said, "New York belongs to all who live in it together. We will tell a new story of our city."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

On his first day in office, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani revoked Eric Adams-era orders banning BDS, synagogue protests and the IHRA antisemitism definition.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, on his first day in office, has revoked executive orders of his predecessor Eric Adams that banned protests in front of synagogues, the Boycott, Divestment and Sanction movement and the IHRA definition of anti semitism. This was one of the key poll promises of Mamdani's campaign. On January 1, 2026, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani took Mayoral responsibility of New York City, widely regarded as the financial capital of the world and the epitome of global capitalism. The previous executive order was issued by Eric Adams on September 26, 2024, who was indicted for charges related to bribery, wire fraud and campaign finance offences. Among the revoked orders, the most controversial yet unexpected was the BDS movement, which advocates for economic/consumer, cultural, academic, boycott and divestment from any organisation, corporation that is complicit in Israeli occupation and urges economic sanctions against them. The movement's impact was accentuated by the ICJ, which found Israel guilty of apartheid against Palestinians and its military occupation and annexation of the Palestinian Territory as illegal. Zohran Mamdani further revoked the ban on protests in front of synagogues, which directed the New York Police Department to reassess its handling of protests at houses of worship. The other controversial decision was the revocation of the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of Anti-semitism, which asserts, "Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. The Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities." The definition was seen by scholars as a weaponisation of antisemitism, using language as a site of “power and struggle.” At the same time, Mamdani vowed to continue, the newly founded Office to Combat Antisemitism. The decision came as a surprise, as many had expected the incoming mayor to shut down the office opened in May. In his oath, he said, "New York belongs to all who live in it together. We will tell a new story of our city."

On his first day in office, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani revoked Eric Adams-era orders banning BDS, synagogue protests and the IHRA antisemitism definition.

Zohran Mamdani revokes BDS, Synagogue protest bans and IHRA antisemitism definition

In a tragic incident, a 25-year-old student from India’s Telangana was killed after he jumped from his apartment in an attempt to escape from a fire in Germany on December 31. The student, identified as Hruthik Reddy of Malkapur village in Jangaon district, has been living in Brandenburg near Berlin. His family has appealed to Indian authorities for help in repatriating his body.The fire erupted in the building and quickly spread to the floor where his apartment was, trapping him inside, said his family. Reddy reportedly jumped from the upper floor in an attempt to escape the flames and thick smoke trapping him. However, he sustained critical head injuries. He was rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.The cause of the fire is not known yet. German authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, which has left his family and village community in shock. Reddy was about to visit his home for the festival of Sankranti, but his death has turned the New Year into a period of mourning for his family.Reddy moved to Germany in June 2023 and was pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in Potsdam, southwest of Berlin. He completed his engineering degree from Vaagdevi College of Engineering in Warangal in 2022.His relatives in Malkapur said that the German authorities informed them of his death. They have requested assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Germany to facilitate the return of his mortal remains for final rites.In another tragic incident involving a Telangana student last month, a 24-year-old woman from Jangaon district died in a house fire in the United States. Two other students from the state were killed in a car crash in California.

Reddy was about to visit his home for the festival of Sankranti, but his death has turned the New Year into a period of mourning for his family.

In a tragic incident, a 25-year-old student from India’s Telangana was killed after he jumped from his apartment in an attempt to escape from a fire in Germany on December 31. The student, identified as Hruthik Reddy of Malkapur village in Jangaon district, has been living in Brandenburg near Berlin. His family has appealed to Indian authorities for help in repatriating his body. The fire erupted in the building and quickly spread to the floor where his apartment was, trapping him inside, said his family. Reddy reportedly jumped from the upper floor in an attempt to escape the flames and thick smoke trapping him. However, he sustained critical head injuries. He was rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries. The cause of the fire is not known yet. German authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, which has left his family and village community in shock. Reddy was about to visit his home for the festival of Sankranti, but his death has turned the New Year into a period of mourning for his family. Reddy moved to Germany in June 2023 and was pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in Potsdam, southwest of Berlin. He completed his engineering degree from Vaagdevi College of Engineering in Warangal in 2022. His relatives in Malkapur said that the German authorities informed them of his death. They have requested assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Germany to facilitate the return of his mortal remains for final rites. In another tragic incident involving a Telangana student last month, a 24-year-old woman from Jangaon district died in a house fire in the United States. Two other students from the state were killed in a car crash in California.

Reddy was about to visit his home for the festival of Sankranti, but his death has turned the New Year into a period of mourning for his family.

Tragic! Indian student in Germany dies after jumping off apartment to escape fire

Israel is using Farsi-language messages on social media to mobilise the Iranian crowd to continue protesting against the regime. These posts are not just isolated messages, but part of a planned campaign. Earlier, Israel's intelligence agency Mossad said that it is supporting them "on the ground", urging them to go out and protest. The protest has spread to Tehran and other cities as several thousand peaceful protestors have taken to the streets. The Iranian President seeks to calm tensions, acknowledging the legitimate grievances of people about the soaring prices.&nbsp;“Go out into the streets together. The time has come. We are with you,” wrote Mossad in a post in the Farsi language, as reported by the Israeli army's radio on Wednesday, “Not just from far, we are with you on the ground.”Social media users have seen instances where AI-generated videos have been used to spread misinformation and further agitate the crowd. &nbsp;A post from Thursday shows that authorities are spraying protestors with water cannon. The post reads, "The people of Iran are not afraid of a delusional and disillusioned government. On the contrary, it is the government that trembles at the power of the people." However, the picture was a screengrab from an AI-generated video.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mossad resorts to AI images The original video did not satisfy the needs of Mossad’s propaganda machine, because the police stopped the watergun machine when the guy jumped in front. So they used a horrible AI image to trick and fool people. <a href="https://t.co/je0HDDDwAL">https://t.co/je0HDDDwAL</a> <a href="https://t.co/OwEZItwPHY">pic.twitter.com/OwEZItwPHY</a>&mdash; Arya - آریا (@AryJeay) <a href="https://twitter.com/AryJeay/status/2006746667266256987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Protests have entered their fifth day in Iran, as the economic crisis takes a toll on the country. Many economists have suggested that the country has reached a breaking point. The value of the Iranian currency, Rial, has fallen by 70 per cent, with 1.42 million rial to the US dollar in December 2025, CPI inflation at around 46 per cent, and the purchasing power of the people has fallen to record levels.&nbsp;The expansive sanctions placed on Iran by the US since the withdrawal from the 2018 nuclear deal have hurt its oil trade and plummeted its foreign exchange reserves. The 12-day war with Israel in June has further strained the Iranian economy. &nbsp;Eventhough the government has suggested a new approach of dialogue, the protestors seem to be disillusioned by the regime.&nbsp;Iranian state TV reported the resignation of Mohammed Reza Farzin, Iran's Central Bank Governor, and the appointment of Abdolnaser Hemmati. He promised to restore economic stability and to "curb inflation and control the banks, and to dismantle the multi-tier exchange rate system, which causes corruption.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran protests enter fifth day as Israel uses Farsi social media messages and alleged Mossad support, amid AI misinformation and a deepening economic crisis.

Israel is using Farsi-language messages on social media to mobilise the Iranian crowd to continue protesting against the regime. These posts are not just isolated messages, but part of a planned campaign. Earlier, Israel's intelligence agency Mossad said that it is supporting them "on the ground", urging them to go out and protest. The protest has spread to Tehran and other cities as several thousand peaceful protestors have taken to the streets. The Iranian President seeks to calm tensions, acknowledging the legitimate grievances of people about the soaring prices. “Go out into the streets together. The time has come. We are with you,” wrote Mossad in a post in the Farsi language, as reported by the Israeli army's radio on Wednesday, “Not just from far, we are with you on the ground.” Social media users have seen instances where AI-generated videos have been used to spread misinformation and further agitate the crowd. A post from Thursday shows that authorities are spraying protestors with water cannon. The post reads, "The people of Iran are not afraid of a delusional and disillusioned government. On the contrary, it is the government that trembles at the power of the people." However, the picture was a screengrab from an AI-generated video.

Iran protests enter fifth day as Israel uses Farsi social media messages and alleged Mossad support, amid AI misinformation and a deepening economic crisis.

Israel’s Mossad tells Iranian protesters 'we are with you' amid growing unrest

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 2) said that the United States is “locked and loaded” to respond if Iran kills protesters amid violence in the country. Following clashes between protesters and security forces in several Iranian cities, six people were killed. The demonstrators took to the streets of Tehran on Sunday (Dec 28) over the rising cost-of-living. The shopkeepers announced a strike due to high prices and economic stagnation.In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned Iran of violence against peaceful protesters, alleging it is a custom of Tehran.“If Iran shots and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue,” the US president wrote.“We are locked and loaded and ready to go,” Trump added.<h2>Clashes in Iran</h2>Iran’s Fars news agency reported Thursday (Jan 1) that two people were killed in clashes between security forces and protesters in the city of Lordegan, in the province of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, while three lost their lives in Azna, in the neighbouring Lorestan province. A member of Iran’s security forces was also killed amid the violence in the western city of Kouhdasht, state television reported.Earlier on Wednesday (Dec 31), several people damaged parts of the provincial governor’s office, according to the justice ministry’s Mizan news agency. Fars reported that the buildings were “severely damaged”, adding that the police arrested several people described as “ringleaders”.The clashes mark an escalation in the unrest, which has spread across Iran after shopkeepers began protests on Sunday over inflation and the depreciating currency. The protests have now spread to Iran’s rural provinces also.The rate of inflation in Iran is at a high of 40 per cent, made worse by Western sanctions.The Iranian government has offered dialogue after the protests, signalling a softer and conciliatory approach. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said on Thursday that authorities would hold a direct dialogue with representatives of trade unions and merchants, but did not elaborate further.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned Iran of violence against peaceful protesters, alleging it is a custom of Tehran.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 2) said that the United States is “locked and loaded” to respond if Iran kills protesters amid violence in the country. Following clashes between protesters and security forces in several Iranian cities, six people were killed. The demonstrators took to the streets of Tehran on Sunday (Dec 28) over the rising cost-of-living. The shopkeepers announced a strike due to high prices and economic stagnation. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned Iran of violence against peaceful protesters, alleging it is a custom of Tehran. “If Iran shots and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue,” the US president wrote. “We are locked and loaded and ready to go,” Trump added. Clashes in Iran Iran’s Fars news agency reported Thursday (Jan 1) that two people were killed in clashes between security forces and protesters in the city of Lordegan, in the province of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, while three lost their lives in Azna, in the neighbouring Lorestan province. A member of Iran’s security forces was also killed amid the violence in the western city of Kouhdasht, state television reported. Earlier on Wednesday (Dec 31), several people damaged parts of the provincial governor’s office, according to the justice ministry’s Mizan news agency. Fars reported that the buildings were “severely damaged”, adding that the police arrested several people described as “ringleaders”. The clashes mark an escalation in the unrest, which has spread across Iran after shopkeepers began protests on Sunday over inflation and the depreciating currency. The protests have now spread to Iran’s rural provinces also. The rate of inflation in Iran is at a high of 40 per cent, made worse by Western sanctions. The Iranian government has offered dialogue after the protests, signalling a softer and conciliatory approach. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said on Thursday that authorities would hold a direct dialogue with representatives of trade unions and merchants, but did not elaborate further.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned Iran of violence against peaceful protesters, alleging it is a custom of Tehran.

‘Locked and loaded’: Trump warns Iran against killing protesters, says US ‘will come to their rescue’

Space rockets may soon use nuclear-powered engines based on nuclear thermal propulsion, or NTP technology. While no nuclear engine will fly this year, the field is approaching a major milestone, with the first in-space demonstration of an NTP engine currently planned for early 2026. If successful, this could open the door to practical nuclear-powered missions later in the 2020s and into the 2030s. NTP is often presented as a promising technology for faster and more capable deep-space missions, especially to Mars. At the same time, it raises concerns about safety, radiation, and the potential proliferation of nuclear material in space and on Earth. As development accelerates, it is time to understand both the prospects and the problems associated with nuclear thermal propulsion.<h2>What is nuclear thermal propulsion or NTP?</h2>Nuclear thermal propulsion uses nuclear fission rather than chemical combustion to produce thrust. Instead of burning fuel and oxidiser, an NTP engine pumps liquid hydrogen through a small nuclear reactor built into the engine. Inside the reactor, uranium atoms undergo fission, releasing extreme levels of heat. This heat raises the temperature of the hydrogen, which is then expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust for the rocket.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-russian-crew-returns-to-earth-after-epic-168-million-kilometer-journey-1765336718719/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-russian-crew-returns-to-earth-after-epic-168-million-kilometer-journey-1765336718719/embed</a><h2>What are the advantages of NTP?</h2>Nuclear thermal engines can be roughly twice as efficient as the best chemical rockets in use today. This means a spacecraft can travel farther using less propellant, and carry heavier payloads for the same amount of fuel. Because hydrogen is very light, it accelerates more easily than the heavier exhaust gases produced by chemical rockets, such as water vapour.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/science/axiom-4-mission-live-updates-indian-astronaut-shubhanshu-shukla-landing-time-check-latest-news-nasa-spacex-isro-iss-1750927403236">HIGHLIGHTS | Axiom 4 Mission Landing: Shubhanshu Shukla makes first remarks on ISS, says 'been a wonderful ride'</a><h2>NTP engines' two-step process to enable thrust outside Earth</h2>NTP process in rocket engines would not be used for lift-off from Earth. Instead, missions would follow a two-step process. First, the spacecraft would be launched into orbit using a conventional chemical rocket. The nuclear thermal engine would only be activated once the vehicle is safely in space. This approach significantly reduces the risk associated with launching nuclear material from Earth, at least in theory.<h2>NTP engines to help Mars missions and wider launch windows</h2>For missions to Mars, NTP could reduce travel time by up to about 25 per cent. Shorter journeys would reduce astronauts’ exposure to cosmic radiation and the health effects of long periods in microgravity. NTP systems are also less dependent on precise planetary alignments, allowing wider launch windows. In addition, the higher performance of nuclear propulsion could make it easier for crew to abort missions if needed.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-stunning-visuals-show-spacexs-crew-10-dragon-capsule-docking-at-international-space-station-8862579">Watch | Stunning visuals show SpaceX’s Crew-10 Dragon capsule docking at International Space Station</a><h2>What NASA is doing now on nuclear engines</h2>The most advanced current effort is a joint programme between NASA and the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), called DRACO. Short for Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, DRACO aims to demonstrate a nuclear thermal rocket in space for the first time. The current plan is for the engine to be activated in Earth orbit in early 2026, although the schedule could slip into 2027. Lockheed Martin is developing the spacecraft. BWX Technologies is responsible for the reactor and fuel.&nbsp;<h2>What is India doing on nuclear propulsion rockets?</h2>India’s space agency, ISRO, is working on nuclear power systems and related foundational technologies to support nuclear propulsion. But an active nuclear thermal rocket programme could be years away. In the UK, private companies such as Pulsar Fusion are exploring nuclear fusion-based rocket concepts. Fusion propulsion promises very high performance, but the technology for it far less mature than fission-based NTP.<h2>Risks of nuclear engines for rockets</h2>Using uranium as rocket fuel raises security and safety concerns. NASA and the US Department of Energy are therefore working to use low-enriched uranium rather than highly enriched fuel, to cut both proliferation risks and security cost. Ground tests have shown that newer fuel types can survive the extreme temperatures and radiation inside an NTP reactor without significant damage.Radiation remains the most obvious risk for both spacecraft and people. Shielding sensitive components and orienting the reactor away from crew areas are the solutions.&nbsp;Launch failures are another major concern, amid fears of nuclear material releasing into the Earth's atmosphere or space. To address this, engineers are developing robust fuel forms designed to remain intact even in severe accidents.<h2>Nuclear-powered rockets: Challenges and prospects ahead</h2>NTP reactors operate at extremely high temperatures, pushing materials to their limits and making engineering especially challenging.&nbsp;Storing and managing liquid hydrogen in space for long periods is also technically difficult. Beyond engineering, nuclear propulsion faces political, regulatory, and international policy hurdles over nuclear safety, environmental protection, and non-proliferation.NTP offers significant potential benefits for deep-space exploration. But complex technical, safety, and political challenges remain. The planned in-space test in early 2026 will help decide whether NTP rockets can move from theory to real use in future space missions.

Nuclear thermal propulsion or NPT technology could power future rockets, with NASA planning the first in-space test in early 2026. The technology is both promising and potentially horrifying. Here is why

Space rockets may soon use nuclear-powered engines based on nuclear thermal propulsion, or NTP technology. While no nuclear engine will fly this year, the field is approaching a major milestone, with the first in-space demonstration of an NTP engine currently planned for early 2026. If successful, this could open the door to practical nuclear-powered missions later in the 2020s and into the 2030s. NTP is often presented as a promising technology for faster and more capable deep-space missions, especially to Mars. At the same time, it raises concerns about safety, radiation, and the potential proliferation of nuclear material in space and on Earth. As development accelerates, it is time to understand both the prospects and the problems associated with nuclear thermal propulsion. What is nuclear thermal propulsion or NTP? Nuclear thermal propulsion uses nuclear fission rather than chemical combustion to produce thrust. Instead of burning fuel and oxidiser, an NTP engine pumps liquid hydrogen through a small nuclear reactor built into the engine. Inside the reactor, uranium atoms undergo fission, releasing extreme levels of heat. This heat raises the temperature of the hydrogen, which is then expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust for the rocket. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-russian-crew-returns-to-earth-after-epic-168-million-kilometer-journey-1765336718719/embed What are the advantages of NTP? Nuclear thermal engines can be roughly twice as efficient as the best chemical rockets in use today. This means a spacecraft can travel farther using less propellant, and carry heavier payloads for the same amount of fuel. Because hydrogen is very light, it accelerates more easily than the heavier exhaust gases produced by chemical rockets, such as water vapour. Also read: HIGHLIGHTS | Axiom 4 Mission Landing: Shubhanshu Shukla makes first remarks on ISS, says 'been a wonderful ride' NTP engines' two-step process to enable thrust outside Earth NTP process in rocket engines would not be used for lift-off from Earth. Instead, missions would follow a two-step process. First, the spacecraft would be launched into orbit using a conventional chemical rocket. The nuclear thermal engine would only be activated once the vehicle is safely in space. This approach significantly reduces the risk associated with launching nuclear material from Earth, at least in theory. NTP engines to help Mars missions and wider launch windows For missions to Mars, NTP could reduce travel time by up to about 25 per cent. Shorter journeys would reduce astronauts’ exposure to cosmic radiation and the health effects of long periods in microgravity. NTP systems are also less dependent on precise planetary alignments, allowing wider launch windows. In addition, the higher performance of nuclear propulsion could make it easier for crew to abort missions if needed. Also read: Watch | Stunning visuals show SpaceX’s Crew-10 Dragon capsule docking at International Space Station What NASA is doing now on nuclear engines The most advanced current effort is a joint programme between NASA and the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), called DRACO. Short for Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, DRACO aims to demonstrate a nuclear thermal rocket in space for the first time. The current plan is for the engine to be activated in Earth orbit in early 2026, although the schedule could slip into 2027. Lockheed Martin is developing the spacecraft. BWX Technologies is responsible for the reactor and fuel. What is India doing on nuclear propulsion rockets? India’s space agency, ISRO, is working on nuclear power systems and related foundational technologies to support nuclear propulsion. But an active nuclear thermal rocket programme could be years away. In the UK, private companies such as Pulsar Fusion are exploring nuclear fusion-based rocket concepts. Fusion propulsion promises very high performance, but the technology for it far less mature than fission-based NTP. Risks of nuclear engines for rockets Using uranium as rocket fuel raises security and safety concerns. NASA and the US Department of Energy are therefore working to use low-enriched uranium rather than highly enriched fuel, to cut both proliferation risks and security cost. Ground tests have shown that newer fuel types can survive the extreme temperatures and radiation inside an NTP reactor without significant damage. Radiation remains the most obvious risk for both spacecraft and people. Shielding sensitive components and orienting the reactor away from crew areas are the solutions. Launch failures are another major concern, amid fears of nuclear material releasing into the Earth's atmosphere or space. To address this, engineers are developing robust fuel forms designed to remain intact even in severe accidents. Nuclear-powered rockets: Challenges and prospects ahead NTP reactors operate at extremely high temperatures, pushing materials to their limits and making engineering especially challenging. Storing and managing liquid hydrogen in space for long periods is also technically difficult. Beyond engineering, nuclear propulsion faces political, regulatory, and international policy hurdles over nuclear safety, environmental protection, and non-proliferation. NTP offers significant potential benefits for deep-space exploration. But complex technical, safety, and political challenges remain. The planned in-space test in early 2026 will help decide whether NTP rockets can move from theory to real use in future space missions.

Nuclear thermal propulsion or NPT technology could power future rockets, with NASA planning the first in-space test in early 2026. The technology is both promising and potentially horrifying. Here is why

Nuclear engines for space rockets soon? First in-space test planned in early 2026. Promises vs risks

Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to launch an investigation after a pilot reported for duty under the influence of alcohol and failed two consecutive breathalyser tests at Vancouver International Airport. Following the incident, which happened on December 23, led to a last-minute delay of Flight AI186, which was travelling from Vancouver to Delhi.Reuters reported, citing a person familiar with the matter, that the pilot was asked to leave the aircraft after the tests conducted by the Canadian police at Vancouver International Airport. Following the incident, described as a “serious matter” by Transport Canada, a letter was sent to the Indian airline. Authorities are likely to pursue enforcement action, the report added.Air India confirmed the incident in a statement, saying that an alternate pilot was brought in to operate the flight.“In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities,” Air India said.The airline added that the pilot was taken off flying duties. It said that Air India maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” towards any violation of rules and regulations. It further assured that any violation will attract strict disciplinary action against the pilot.“The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the process of enquiry. Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations,” the airline added, “Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy.”According to Reuters, Transport Canada official Ajit Oommen has asked Air India to provide its findings and details of the steps taken to prevent such incidents in future by January 26.The flight was operating a long-haul route, which now includes a refuelling stop in Vienna due to Pakistan airspace restrictions. Another set of pilots took over during the Vienna–Delhi leg.

Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to investigate after a pilot failed two breathalyser tests for alcohol before Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi on Dec 23. The pilot was removed, an alternate crew flew, and enforcement action may follow.

Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to launch an investigation after a pilot reported for duty under the influence of alcohol and failed two consecutive breathalyser tests at Vancouver International Airport. Following the incident, which happened on December 23, led to a last-minute delay of Flight AI186, which was travelling from Vancouver to Delhi. Reuters reported, citing a person familiar with the matter, that the pilot was asked to leave the aircraft after the tests conducted by the Canadian police at Vancouver International Airport. Following the incident, described as a “serious matter” by Transport Canada, a letter was sent to the Indian airline. Authorities are likely to pursue enforcement action, the report added. Air India confirmed the incident in a statement, saying that an alternate pilot was brought in to operate the flight. “In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities,” Air India said. The airline added that the pilot was taken off flying duties. It said that Air India maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” towards any violation of rules and regulations. It further assured that any violation will attract strict disciplinary action against the pilot. “The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the process of enquiry. Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations,” the airline added, “Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy.” According to Reuters, Transport Canada official Ajit Oommen has asked Air India to provide its findings and details of the steps taken to prevent such incidents in future by January 26. The flight was operating a long-haul route, which now includes a refuelling stop in Vienna due to Pakistan airspace restrictions. Another set of pilots took over during the Vienna–Delhi leg.

Canada’s transport regulator has asked Air India to investigate after a pilot failed two breathalyser tests for alcohol before Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi on Dec 23. The pilot was removed, an alternate crew flew, and enforcement action may follow.

Air India pilot shows up drunk on duty in Vancouver, Canada demands probe

California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed US President and his extravagant New Year's Eve party at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, as millions of Americans face a significant price hike in health insurance due to the expiration of subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. The videos from Trump's New Year's Eve party were circulated across social media with the president's caviar station, ice sculptures, and a performance from Vanilla Ice, as conservative figures like Stephen Miller and Kristi Noem danced to the tune of "Ice Ice Baby"&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Vanilla Ice, <a href="https://twitter.com/KristiNoem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KristiNoem</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/StephenM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StephenM</a> ICE ICE Baby 🧊 <a href="https://t.co/QskZUehP1I">pic.twitter.com/QskZUehP1I</a>&mdash; Katie Miller (@KatieMiller) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatieMiller/status/2006599579471696174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a social media post, Gavin Newsom's press team mocked Trump by sharing the clip. “Don’t worry, 17 million Americans begin to get kicked off their health care this year”. X user responded to the post, “Guess the party never stops when it’s not your neck on the line”. Another pointed out, “While you dine at the French Laundry! It’s good to be king, isn't it, Hairgel boy?” While one MAGA supporter said, "You mean kickbacks stop?"

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Don’t worry, 17 million Americans begin to get kicked off their health care this year 🥳 <a href="https://t.co/QrCntyQWDB">https://t.co/QrCntyQWDB</a>&mdash; Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovPressOffice/status/2006790163566047606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The pandemic-era subsidies, put in place by the Biden administration, expired at midnight on December 31, 2025. Despite months of back and forth between the Democrats and Republican, there was no agreement and led to the historic 41 days Government Shutdown, which ended in mid-Novemeber. Both Democratic and Republic healthcare bills fail to pass in the following pass in mid- December. The health insurance premiums are expected to more than double or even triple, Elisabeth Benjamin, vice president of health initiatives at the Community Service Society of New York. “We’ve done nothing as a country to control healthcare costs,” said Elisabeth. Those who bought healthcare plans through Federal and State insuarance plans, there premium could reach as high as $2,050 per month.&nbsp;

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticises Donald Trump as enhanced health insurance subsidies expire, raising healthcare costs for millions of Americans.

California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed US President and his extravagant New Year's Eve party at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, as millions of Americans face a significant price hike in health insurance due to the expiration of subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. The videos from Trump's New Year's Eve party were circulated across social media with the president's caviar station, ice sculptures, and a performance from Vanilla Ice, as conservative figures like Stephen Miller and Kristi Noem danced to the tune of "Ice Ice Baby"

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticises Donald Trump as enhanced health insurance subsidies expire, raising healthcare costs for millions of Americans.

Gavin Newsom slams Trump's extravagant New Year's Eve party as millions face higher healthcare costs

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch, in a letter to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, has warned that China could deploy its military forces in Pakistan's Balochistan region within the next few months. He warned that the move would mark a dangerous escalation of the deepening China-Pakistan alliance.<h2>Baloch leader writes to Jaishankar</h2>In an open letter addressed to Jaishankar and posted on X on New Year's Day, Mir Yar Baloch said Baloch representatives view the deepening China-Pakistan alliance as a direct threat to the region and its people.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-proposes-stricter-drugs-rules-to-restrict-over-the-counter-sale-of-cough-syrups-1767259581543">India proposes Drugs Rules to restrict over the counter sale of cough syrups</a>He argued that Balochistan has endured decades of repression under Pakistani control, accusing the state of systematic violence and widespread human rights abuses. "The people of Balochistan have endured Pakistan's state occupation, state-sponsored terrorism, and egregious human rights atrocities for the past seventy-nine years," he wrote, adding that the moment had come to confront what he described as a long festering crisis. "The time has now arrived to eradicate this festering affliction at its roots, ensuring lasting peace and sovereignty for our nation".<h2>CPEC, Balochistan, and Bharat</h2>A central concern, Mir Yar Baloch raised in the letter, was the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, a flagship project under Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative that passes through Balochistan. Mir Yar Baloch claimed the project was moving rapidly towards its final stages and warned that it could soon bring Chinese troops onto Baloch soil."Should the capabilities of Balochistan's defense and freedom forces not be further bolstered, and if they continue to be overlooked as per longstanding patterns, it is conceivable that China could deploy its military forces in Balochistan within a few months," the letter stated. Any such move without the consent of the local population, Baloch warned, would have serious consequences not just for Balochistan but also for India, which he referred to as Bharat.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</a>"The presence of Chinese boots on Balochistani soil without the will of the 60 million Baloch people would pose an unimaginable threat and challenge to the futures of both Bharat and Balochistan."China and Pakistan have consistently rejected claims that CPEC has any military dimension, maintaining that it is purely an economic project. India, however, has opposed CPEC from the start, arguing that it violates its sovereignty because it runs through Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.In his letter, Mir Yar Baloch also praised India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. He described the strikes as a show of "exemplary courage and a steadfast commitment to regional security and justice".

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch has warned India that China could deploy troops in Pakistan’s Balochistan within months, citing CPEC’s final stages. In a letter to S Jaishankar, he called it a grave threat to Baloch people, and Bharat.

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch, in a letter to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, has warned that China could deploy its military forces in Pakistan's Balochistan region within the next few months. He warned that the move would mark a dangerous escalation of the deepening China-Pakistan alliance. Baloch leader writes to Jaishankar In an open letter addressed to Jaishankar and posted on X on New Year's Day, Mir Yar Baloch said Baloch representatives view the deepening China-Pakistan alliance as a direct threat to the region and its people. Also read | India proposes Drugs Rules to restrict over the counter sale of cough syrups He argued that Balochistan has endured decades of repression under Pakistani control, accusing the state of systematic violence and widespread human rights abuses. "The people of Balochistan have endured Pakistan's state occupation, state-sponsored terrorism, and egregious human rights atrocities for the past seventy-nine years," he wrote, adding that the moment had come to confront what he described as a long festering crisis. "The time has now arrived to eradicate this festering affliction at its roots, ensuring lasting peace and sovereignty for our nation". CPEC, Balochistan, and Bharat A central concern, Mir Yar Baloch raised in the letter, was the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, a flagship project under Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative that passes through Balochistan. Mir Yar Baloch claimed the project was moving rapidly towards its final stages and warned that it could soon bring Chinese troops onto Baloch soil. "Should the capabilities of Balochistan's defense and freedom forces not be further bolstered, and if they continue to be overlooked as per longstanding patterns, it is conceivable that China could deploy its military forces in Balochistan within a few months," the letter stated. Any such move without the consent of the local population, Baloch warned, would have serious consequences not just for Balochistan but also for India, which he referred to as Bharat. Also read | Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' "The presence of Chinese boots on Balochistani soil without the will of the 60 million Baloch people would pose an unimaginable threat and challenge to the futures of both Bharat and Balochistan." China and Pakistan have consistently rejected claims that CPEC has any military dimension, maintaining that it is purely an economic project. India, however, has opposed CPEC from the start, arguing that it violates its sovereignty because it runs through Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. In his letter, Mir Yar Baloch also praised India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. He described the strikes as a show of "exemplary courage and a steadfast commitment to regional security and justice".

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch has warned India that China could deploy troops in Pakistan’s Balochistan within months, citing CPEC’s final stages. In a letter to S Jaishankar, he called it a grave threat to Baloch people, and Bharat.

'Bharat's future': Baloch leader warns India about 'unimaginable' Pakistan threat flags, China troops in Balochistan

A 77-year-old woman went overboard from the Holland America Line cruise ship on New Year's Day. The ship as Nieuw Statendam, was sailing 40 miles northeast of Sabana, Cuba, when the incident happened. The US Coast Guard has initiated a search operation and continued for approximately eight hours spanning about 690 square miles before it was suspended "pending the development of new information."&nbsp;The search operation was initiated by the crew of the vessel William Trump and an MH-60 helicopter crew from Air Station Clearwater. “The captain and crew initiated search and rescue procedures and are searching the area, working closely with the US Coast Guard, which has deployed a cutter and helicopter to assist,” said Holland American Line in a statement on January 1, 2026.“Our family assistance team is supporting the guest's family, and our thoughts are with the guest's loved ones during this difficult time,” said Holland American Line on Thursday to ABC News. The identity of the woman has not been revealed yet.&nbsp;The Nieuw Statendam is nearly 1,000 feet in length and can carry &nbsp;2,692 guests. It is a subsidiary of the Carnival Corporation. The cruise ship left Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on December 27, for a week-long sail in the Caribbean. But because of the incident, the ship's planned travel to Key West, Florida, was cancelled.According NYT reports, the overboard incidents are mostly fatal. According to Business Insider, in 2023, at least 10 people fell off cruise ships, only two of whom survived. In 2024, at least 19 people went overboard on cruise ships, only two of whom survived. Holland America has refused to comment on the probability of the survival of their 77-year-old guest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 77-year-old woman went overboard from Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam near Cuba. The US Coast Guard searched for eight hours before suspending efforts.

A 77-year-old woman went overboard from the Holland America Line cruise ship on New Year's Day. The ship as Nieuw Statendam, was sailing 40 miles northeast of Sabana, Cuba, when the incident happened. The US Coast Guard has initiated a search operation and continued for approximately eight hours spanning about 690 square miles before it was suspended "pending the development of new information." The search operation was initiated by the crew of the vessel William Trump and an MH-60 helicopter crew from Air Station Clearwater. “The captain and crew initiated search and rescue procedures and are searching the area, working closely with the US Coast Guard, which has deployed a cutter and helicopter to assist,” said Holland American Line in a statement on January 1, 2026. “Our family assistance team is supporting the guest's family, and our thoughts are with the guest's loved ones during this difficult time,” said Holland American Line on Thursday to ABC News. The identity of the woman has not been revealed yet. The Nieuw Statendam is nearly 1,000 feet in length and can carry 2,692 guests. It is a subsidiary of the Carnival Corporation. The cruise ship left Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on December 27, for a week-long sail in the Caribbean. But because of the incident, the ship's planned travel to Key West, Florida, was cancelled. According NYT reports, the overboard incidents are mostly fatal. According to Business Insider, in 2023, at least 10 people fell off cruise ships, only two of whom survived. In 2024, at least 19 people went overboard on cruise ships, only two of whom survived. Holland America has refused to comment on the probability of the survival of their 77-year-old guest.

A 77-year-old woman went overboard from Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam near Cuba. The US Coast Guard searched for eight hours before suspending efforts.

77-year-old woman goes overboard from Holland America cruise ship near Cuba, coast guard launches search

Investigators in Switzerland on Friday (Jan 2) raced to identify the almost 40 victims of a fire that ripped through a bar, as reports suggest that the nightclub advertised the exact thing that may have led to the inferno. The nightclub in the Swiss Alps town of Crans-Montana became the site of a deadly New Year's Eve fire in which at least 40 people were killed, and over 100 were injured.<h2>Investigators race to identify victims</h2>It is not yet clear what set off the blaze; however, reports suggest that a sparkler may be to blame. The fire broke out around 1:30 am on New Year’s Day at Le Constellation, a basement club in the alpine resort town of Crans-Montana. At least 40 people were killed and more than 100 were injured, many with severe burns, after flames tore through the packed venue during holiday celebrations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-bar-fire-kills-40-police-say-witnesses-blame-pyrotechnic-devices-1767284536907">Switzerland bar fire kills 40, police say; witnesses blame pyrotechnic devices</a>Two French eyewitnesses, Emma and Albane, told BFM TV that the fire appeared to start when a sparkler attached to a champagne bottle was held too close to the club's low ceiling. Within moments, they said, the ceiling caught fire. "In a matter of seconds, the entire ceiling was ablaze," they said. "Everything was made of wood".<h2>Sparklers advertised by the club caused the fire?</h2>Authorities have not confirmed the cause and say the investigation is still in its early stages. But witness accounts across Swiss, French and Italian media point to the same detail: sparklers mounted on champagne bottles, carried by staff as part of a celebratory table service.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-at-bar-in-swiss-ski-resort-kills-several-during-new-year-celebrations-1767247872002">40 feared dead as explosion rips through New Year crowd at Swiss ski resort</a>A promotional video posted on Le Constellation's YouTube channel in May 2024 also shows waitresses wearing futuristic helmets and carrying champagne bottles topped with sparklers, moving through the club as part of what appeared to be a regular show for customers. Investigators are now examining whether Le Constellation met fire safety standards, including ceiling materials and emergency exits.

Swiss investigators are scrambling to identify victims of a deadly New Year’s Eve fire at a packed alpine nightclub, as evidence points to champagne sparklers sparking the blaze. Nearly 40 people were killed in the blaze.

Investigators in Switzerland on Friday (Jan 2) raced to identify the almost 40 victims of a fire that ripped through a bar, as reports suggest that the nightclub advertised the exact thing that may have led to the inferno. The nightclub in the Swiss Alps town of Crans-Montana became the site of a deadly New Year's Eve fire in which at least 40 people were killed, and over 100 were injured. Investigators race to identify victims It is not yet clear what set off the blaze; however, reports suggest that a sparkler may be to blame. The fire broke out around 1:30 am on New Year’s Day at Le Constellation, a basement club in the alpine resort town of Crans-Montana. At least 40 people were killed and more than 100 were injured, many with severe burns, after flames tore through the packed venue during holiday celebrations. Also read | Switzerland bar fire kills 40, police say; witnesses blame pyrotechnic devices Two French eyewitnesses, Emma and Albane, told BFM TV that the fire appeared to start when a sparkler attached to a champagne bottle was held too close to the club's low ceiling. Within moments, they said, the ceiling caught fire. "In a matter of seconds, the entire ceiling was ablaze," they said. "Everything was made of wood". Sparklers advertised by the club caused the fire? Authorities have not confirmed the cause and say the investigation is still in its early stages. But witness accounts across Swiss, French and Italian media point to the same detail: sparklers mounted on champagne bottles, carried by staff as part of a celebratory table service. Also read | 40 feared dead as explosion rips through New Year crowd at Swiss ski resort A promotional video posted on Le Constellation's YouTube channel in May 2024 also shows waitresses wearing futuristic helmets and carrying champagne bottles topped with sparklers, moving through the club as part of what appeared to be a regular show for customers. Investigators are now examining whether Le Constellation met fire safety standards, including ceiling materials and emergency exits.

Swiss investigators are scrambling to identify victims of a deadly New Year’s Eve fire at a packed alpine nightclub, as evidence points to champagne sparklers sparking the blaze. Nearly 40 people were killed in the blaze.

Did champagne sparklers ignite deadly New Year blaze at Swiss resort? Investigators scramble to identify victims

Amid tensions between China and Taiwan, the US State Department on Thursday (Jan 1) called Beijing’s military drills in the region increasing tensions “unnecessarily”, urging it to “cease its military pressure.” This comes after China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels as part of a two-day military exercise around Taiwan, saying the drills simulated a blockade of main Taiwanese ports. The actions have been condemned by Taipei as “highly provocative.” The Chinese manoeuvres began 11 days after the United States had announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan.“China’s military activities and rhetoric toward Taiwan and others in the region increase tensions unnecessarily. We urge Beijing to exercise restraint, cease its military pressure against Taiwan, and instead engage in meaningful dialogue,” US State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said in a statement.&nbsp;“The United States supports peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposes unilateral changes to the status quo, including by force or coercion,” he added.Meanwhile, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Thursday (Jan 1) that the island is determined to defend its sovereignty and boost its defence.&nbsp;“As president, my stance has always been clear: to resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defence,” Lai said.<h2>Taiwan welcomes US concern</h2>In a statement, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said, “FM Lin Chia-lung welcomes U.S. concern over PRC actions, including PLA provocations around Taiwan, that threaten the status quo, maritime security &amp; freedom of navigation. Taiwan stands firmly with allies &amp; partners to safeguard a free &amp; open Indo-Pacific.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FM Lin Chia-lung welcomes U.S. 🇺🇸 concern over PRC actions, including PLA provocations around <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwan</a>🇹🇼, that threaten the status quo, maritime security &amp; freedom of navigation. Taiwan stands firmly with allies &amp; partners to safeguard a free &amp; open Indo-Pacific. <a href="https://t.co/fLcGDjPKf5">https://t.co/fLcGDjPKf5</a> <a href="https://t.co/gPDn3C6Nnm">pic.twitter.com/gPDn3C6Nnm</a>&mdash; 外交部 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MOFA_Taiwan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MOFA_Taiwan/status/2006985087683039671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>China warns, ‘stop stirring up trouble’</h2>Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has suggested using force to seize the island democracy. On Friday, China again defended drills as “legitimate”, warning countries to “stop stirring up trouble on the Taiwan Strait issue.”“We urge relevant countries and institutions to strictly abide by the one-China principle,” a Chinese defence ministry spokesman said in a statement in response to calls for restraint.Earlier on Monday (Dec 29), US President Donald Trump said that he is not worried about China conducting military drills near Taiwan.“I have a great relationship with President Xi [Jinping], and he hasn't told me anything about [the drills]. I certainly have seen it,” Trump said. “No, nothing worries me. They’ve been doing naval exercises for 20 years in that area.”“I don’t believe he’s going to be doing it,” Trump said refering to a possible invasion of Taiwan.Announcing the military activities, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command said that it was “employing destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers and unmanned aerial vehicles” during the drill code-named ‘Justice Mission 2025’, which includes “live-fire training on maritime targets to the north and southwest of Taiwan.”&nbsp;

This comes after China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels as part of a two-day military exercise around Taiwan, saying the drills simulated a blockade of main Taiwanese ports.

Amid tensions between China and Taiwan, the US State Department on Thursday (Jan 1) called Beijing’s military drills in the region increasing tensions “unnecessarily”, urging it to “cease its military pressure.” This comes after China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels as part of a two-day military exercise around Taiwan, saying the drills simulated a blockade of main Taiwanese ports. The actions have been condemned by Taipei as “highly provocative.” The Chinese manoeuvres began 11 days after the United States had announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. “China’s military activities and rhetoric toward Taiwan and others in the region increase tensions unnecessarily. We urge Beijing to exercise restraint, cease its military pressure against Taiwan, and instead engage in meaningful dialogue,” US State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said in a statement. “The United States supports peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposes unilateral changes to the status quo, including by force or coercion,” he added. Meanwhile, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Thursday (Jan 1) that the island is determined to defend its sovereignty and boost its defence. “As president, my stance has always been clear: to resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defence,” Lai said. Taiwan welcomes US concern In a statement, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said, “FM Lin Chia-lung welcomes U.S. concern over PRC actions, including PLA provocations around Taiwan, that threaten the status quo, maritime security & freedom of navigation. Taiwan stands firmly with allies & partners to safeguard a free & open Indo-Pacific.”

This comes after China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels as part of a two-day military exercise around Taiwan, saying the drills simulated a blockade of main Taiwanese ports.

‘Cease military pressure’: US urges restraint, calls China’s military drills near Taiwan ‘unnecessary’

With barely two weeks left before its deadline, the commission probing the deaths and destruction during the September 8–9 Gen Z protests has yet to question the country's top political leadership from that period. However, a member of the commission told the Kathmandu Post that they were planning on summoning the-then prime minister KP Sharma Oli and home minister Ramesh Lekhak.<h2>Oli to be summoned?</h2>Neither Oli nor Lekhak have been summoned so far, even though both were in charge when security forces cracked down on protesters. A member of the panel said that it is likely to change soon.The three-member commission, led by former Special Court chair Gauri Bahadur Karki, was formed on September 21 by the interim government headed by Sushila Karki. It was given three months to complete its investigation and submit a report. That window is closing fast.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/make-aspirin-superstitious-again-trump-contradicts-white-house-reveals-shocking-truth-about-bruises-and-mri-scans-here-s-what-he-said-1767321432475">Make Aspirin Superstitious Again? Trump reveals shocking truth about his bruises</a>Talking to Kathmandu Post, Bishweshwar Prasad Bhandari, a member of the probe commission, acknowledged that their tenure was coming to an end and said, "We are in the process of summoning the former prime minister and the home minister". Bhandari added that the panel could seek an extension if it fails to complete its work on schedule. He also stated that the law prohibits the commission from disclosing details of the investigation until it is concluded. "We are also bound by law, which prevents us from sharing details of the investigation before its end".So far, the panel has recorded statements from several police officers involved in the suppression of the protests. It has also questioned Rabi Lamichhane, though that inquiry focused narrowly on how he was released from Nakkhu Prison on September 9.<h2>Police officers deployed during Gen Z protests grilled</h2>At least 76 people were killed during the protests, including 19 unarmed youths shot dead on the first day alone. Families of the victims, Gen Z representatives and civil society figures argue that responsibility ultimately lies with the government of the day, and that the prime minister and home minister must be held to account.According to spokesperson Bigyan Raj Sharma, more than 100 people have been called for general inquiry, with statements taken from around 30. He said, "We have almost completed recording the statements of all police officers deployed on September 8 and 9".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-whenever-they-want-venezulea-s-maduro-says-open-to-talks-with-trump-s-us-1767316319788">'Whenever they want': Venezuela's Maduro says open to talks with Trump's US</a>Some officers have argued they should not face legal action for following orders. One officer told the commission that police fired around 2,500 rounds during the protests, claiming the low number of fatal chest or head wounds showed there was no intent to kill.Meanwhile, former Nepal Police inspector general Chandra Kuber Khapung has told the Supreme Court that police personnel cannot be disciplined for actions taken during the Gen Z movement. Responding to a writ petition seeking accountability, he said the force acted in good faith and within the law, and that responsibility for district-level law and order rests with chief district officers, not the police chief. &nbsp;

With its deadline looming, Nepal’s Gen Z protest probe has yet to question prime minister KP Oli and home minister  Ramesh Lekhak. The commission now says summons are coming, as families demand accountability for 76 deaths and police defend their actions.

With barely two weeks left before its deadline, the commission probing the deaths and destruction during the September 8–9 Gen Z protests has yet to question the country's top political leadership from that period. However, a member of the commission told the Kathmandu Post that they were planning on summoning the-then prime minister KP Sharma Oli and home minister Ramesh Lekhak. Oli to be summoned? Neither Oli nor Lekhak have been summoned so far, even though both were in charge when security forces cracked down on protesters. A member of the panel said that it is likely to change soon. The three-member commission, led by former Special Court chair Gauri Bahadur Karki, was formed on September 21 by the interim government headed by Sushila Karki. It was given three months to complete its investigation and submit a report. That window is closing fast. Also read | Make Aspirin Superstitious Again? Trump reveals shocking truth about his bruises Talking to Kathmandu Post, Bishweshwar Prasad Bhandari, a member of the probe commission, acknowledged that their tenure was coming to an end and said, "We are in the process of summoning the former prime minister and the home minister". Bhandari added that the panel could seek an extension if it fails to complete its work on schedule. He also stated that the law prohibits the commission from disclosing details of the investigation until it is concluded. "We are also bound by law, which prevents us from sharing details of the investigation before its end". So far, the panel has recorded statements from several police officers involved in the suppression of the protests. It has also questioned Rabi Lamichhane, though that inquiry focused narrowly on how he was released from Nakkhu Prison on September 9. Police officers deployed during Gen Z protests grilled At least 76 people were killed during the protests, including 19 unarmed youths shot dead on the first day alone. Families of the victims, Gen Z representatives and civil society figures argue that responsibility ultimately lies with the government of the day, and that the prime minister and home minister must be held to account. According to spokesperson Bigyan Raj Sharma, more than 100 people have been called for general inquiry, with statements taken from around 30. He said, "We have almost completed recording the statements of all police officers deployed on September 8 and 9". Also read | 'Whenever they want': Venezuela's Maduro says open to talks with Trump's US Some officers have argued they should not face legal action for following orders. One officer told the commission that police fired around 2,500 rounds during the protests, claiming the low number of fatal chest or head wounds showed there was no intent to kill. Meanwhile, former Nepal Police inspector general Chandra Kuber Khapung has told the Supreme Court that police personnel cannot be disciplined for actions taken during the Gen Z movement. Responding to a writ petition seeking accountability, he said the force acted in good faith and within the law, and that responsibility for district-level law and order rests with chief district officers, not the police chief.

With its deadline looming, Nepal’s Gen Z protest probe has yet to question prime minister KP Oli and home minister Ramesh Lekhak. The commission now says summons are coming, as families demand accountability for 76 deaths and police defend their actions.

With just two weeks left till deadline, Nepal Gen Z protest probe panel says will summon KP Oli

In his first speech after being sworn in as New York City’s mayor on Thursday (Jan 1), Zohran Kwame Mamdani vowed to help those “betrayed by the established order”, in an attack directed towards Republicans. He said that he would govern New York City “expansively and audaciously”. He reassured New Yorkers, as thousands gathered outside City Hall, that he would carry out his agenda of affordability, adding that he would refuse to “reset expectations” for what government should deliver for the working class and the unprotected.“They want to know if the left can govern. They want to know if the struggles that afflict them can be solved,” the 34-year-old Democrat said outside City Hall. “We will do something that New Yorkers do better than anyone else: we will set an example for the world.”“Beginning today, we will govern expansively and audaciously,” Mamdani said in his 24-minute-long speech.Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of New York, pledged help those “betrayed by the established order”, highlighting the issues of cost-of-living. He also vowed to protect immigrant communities, who are currently facing the threat of deportation under US President Donald Trump’s administration.&nbsp;His left-wing allies Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also addressed the crowd. “Thank you for giving us, from coast to coast, the hope and the vision that we can create government that works for all, not just the wealthy and the few,” Sanders said. During his speech, the crowd erupted in chants of “tax the rich”.The Democrat took his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop under City Hall just after midnight to take the helm of the United States’ largest city. Mamdani took the oath with his hand on the Quran, becoming the first mayor in the city’s history to do so, according to The New York Times. His oath-taking was performed by New York Attorney General Letitia James. The public event had an attendance of 4,000 ticketed guests.&nbsp;

He reassured New Yorkers, as thousands gathered outside City Hall, that he would carry out his agenda of affordability, adding that he would refuse to “reset expectations” for what government should deliver for the working class and the unprotected.

In his first speech after being sworn in as New York City’s mayor on Thursday (Jan 1), Zohran Kwame Mamdani vowed to help those “betrayed by the established order”, in an attack directed towards Republicans. He said that he would govern New York City “expansively and audaciously”. He reassured New Yorkers, as thousands gathered outside City Hall, that he would carry out his agenda of affordability, adding that he would refuse to “reset expectations” for what government should deliver for the working class and the unprotected. “They want to know if the left can govern. They want to know if the struggles that afflict them can be solved,” the 34-year-old Democrat said outside City Hall. “We will do something that New Yorkers do better than anyone else: we will set an example for the world.” “Beginning today, we will govern expansively and audaciously,” Mamdani said in his 24-minute-long speech. Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of New York, pledged help those “betrayed by the established order”, highlighting the issues of cost-of-living. He also vowed to protect immigrant communities, who are currently facing the threat of deportation under US President Donald Trump’s administration. His left-wing allies Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also addressed the crowd. “Thank you for giving us, from coast to coast, the hope and the vision that we can create government that works for all, not just the wealthy and the few,” Sanders said. During his speech, the crowd erupted in chants of “tax the rich”. The Democrat took his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop under City Hall just after midnight to take the helm of the United States’ largest city. Mamdani took the oath with his hand on the Quran, becoming the first mayor in the city’s history to do so, according to The New York Times. His oath-taking was performed by New York Attorney General Letitia James. The public event had an attendance of 4,000 ticketed guests.

He reassured New Yorkers, as thousands gathered outside City Hall, that he would carry out his agenda of affordability, adding that he would refuse to “reset expectations” for what government should deliver for the working class and the unprotected.

Mamdani slams Trump in first speech as New York Mayor, vows to help those ‘betrayed by established order’

US President Donald Trump, in an interview, insisted that he has "very good genetics" while fielding questions about his health issues, including the widely spotted bruising on his hands, the MRI he underwent and his propensity to fall asleep during on-camera meetings. During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the POTUS undercut the narrative of his White House, and offered unusually candid details about his medical routine that he admitted has hints of "superstition". And in doing so, he contradicted months of carefully worded reassurances from his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</a><h2>Make Aspirin Superstitious Again</h2>Since returning to the office last January, questions about Trump's health have followed him closely. Photographs showing dark bruises on the backs of his hands, sometimes covered with makeup or bandages, have prompted speculation that Leavitt has repeatedly tried to dismiss. Her most common explanation was that the marks came from constant handshaking, describing Trump as someone who meets and greets more people than any president before him. She has also pointed to his routine use of aspirin.However, Trump told a different story. He said he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin every day, four times the low dose commonly recommended, despite doctors urging him to cut back. The reason, he said, is superstition. He has been on the same regimen for decades and does not want to change it. "I’m a little superstitious," he said, adding, "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/no-nobel-benjamin-netanyahu-creates-israel-peace-prize-just-for-donald-trump-1767076085565">No Nobel? Benjamin Netanyahu creates Israel Peace Prize just for Donald Trump</a>"I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?". The higher dose, he acknowledged, makes him bruise easily, especially as his skin has become thinner with age.He also confirmed he uses makeup to cover marks after his hands get "whacked," including one incident involving Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose ring nicked him during a high five.<h2>So, did Trump get an MRI or give "ammunition" to rivals?</h2>Trump also revisited the mystery surrounding a scan he underwent at Walter Reed last October. For weeks, Leavitt referred to the procedure only as "advanced imaging," declining to say whether it was an MRI, but that was the running commentary. Trump told the Journal he had described it as an MRI himself, then corrected the record. It was, he said, a CT scan done to rule out cardiovascular issues. Nothing abnormal was found.The president expressed regret about taking the test at all, saying it gave critics "ammunition" to question his health. "In retrospect, it’s too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," he said.<h2>'DOZY DON'</h2>Trump also denied struggling with hearing or sleep, brushing off footage showing him with his eyes closed during meetings. He said he has always slept little and still keeps a packed schedule. "I’ve never been a big sleeper," he said, insisting, "Sometimes they’ll take a picture of me blinking, blinking, and they’ll catch me with the blink".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">DOZY DON IS BACK! <a href="https://t.co/TQHaMi9YaF">pic.twitter.com/TQHaMi9YaF</a>&mdash; Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovPressOffice/status/1986611487843229908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At 79, Trump is the oldest person to assume the presidency. Rejecting the idea that age is slowing him down, he said his energy comes down to one thing: “Genetics are very important...And I have very good genetics.”<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-taking-high-dose-of-aspirin-says-he-wants-nice-thin-blood-1767324052394/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-taking-high-dose-of-aspirin-says-he-wants-nice-thin-blood-1767324052394/embed</a>&nbsp;

Donald Trump has broken from his own White House script, admitting he takes high-dose aspirin out of superstition, bruises easily, and regrets a medical scan that became “ammunition” for health doubts. Brushing off age concerns, he insisted he has, “very good genetics.”

US President Donald Trump, in an interview, insisted that he has "very good genetics" while fielding questions about his health issues, including the widely spotted bruising on his hands, the MRI he underwent and his propensity to fall asleep during on-camera meetings. During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the POTUS undercut the narrative of his White House, and offered unusually candid details about his medical routine that he admitted has hints of "superstition". And in doing so, he contradicted months of carefully worded reassurances from his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt. Also read | Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' Make Aspirin Superstitious Again Since returning to the office last January, questions about Trump's health have followed him closely. Photographs showing dark bruises on the backs of his hands, sometimes covered with makeup or bandages, have prompted speculation that Leavitt has repeatedly tried to dismiss. Her most common explanation was that the marks came from constant handshaking, describing Trump as someone who meets and greets more people than any president before him. She has also pointed to his routine use of aspirin. However, Trump told a different story. He said he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin every day, four times the low dose commonly recommended, despite doctors urging him to cut back. The reason, he said, is superstition. He has been on the same regimen for decades and does not want to change it. "I’m a little superstitious," he said, adding, "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart". Also read | No Nobel? Benjamin Netanyahu creates Israel Peace Prize just for Donald Trump "I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?". The higher dose, he acknowledged, makes him bruise easily, especially as his skin has become thinner with age. He also confirmed he uses makeup to cover marks after his hands get "whacked," including one incident involving Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose ring nicked him during a high five. So, did Trump get an MRI or give "ammunition" to rivals? Trump also revisited the mystery surrounding a scan he underwent at Walter Reed last October. For weeks, Leavitt referred to the procedure only as "advanced imaging," declining to say whether it was an MRI, but that was the running commentary. Trump told the Journal he had described it as an MRI himself, then corrected the record. It was, he said, a CT scan done to rule out cardiovascular issues. Nothing abnormal was found. The president expressed regret about taking the test at all, saying it gave critics "ammunition" to question his health. "In retrospect, it’s too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," he said. 'DOZY DON' Trump also denied struggling with hearing or sleep, brushing off footage showing him with his eyes closed during meetings. He said he has always slept little and still keeps a packed schedule. "I’ve never been a big sleeper," he said, insisting, "Sometimes they’ll take a picture of me blinking, blinking, and they’ll catch me with the blink".

Donald Trump has broken from his own White House script, admitting he takes high-dose aspirin out of superstition, bruises easily, and regrets a medical scan that became “ammunition” for health doubts. Brushing off age concerns, he insisted he has, “very good genetics.”

Make Aspirin 'Superstitious' Again? Trump contradicts White House, reveals shocking truth about bruises and MRI scans. Here's what he said

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, on Thursday (Jan 1), said he was open to cooperation with the United States on drug trafficking, oil and other issues. This comes after weeks of growing American military pressure in the region. Appearing for an interview on state TV, the Venezuelan president commented that the talks can happen "wherever they want and whenever they want." However, when asked about a US military attack on a Venezuelan dock announced this week by President Donald Trump, he declined to comment.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-don-t-want-to-say-trump-confirms-first-us-land-strike-on-venezuela-acts-secretive-about-exact-details-1767067073046">'I don't want to say': Trump confirms first US land strike on Venezuela, acts secretive about exact details</a><h2>Did the US attack a Venezuelan dock?</h2>Earlier this week, Trump announced that the US had carried out a land strike on a Venezuelan dock, linked to alleged drug boats. While he confirmed the strike, Trump did not disclose where the dock was located, when the strike occurred, or which US agency carried it out. When pressed on whether the CIA was involved, Trump replied cryptically: "I don't want to say that. I know exactly who it was, but I don't want to say who it was". He cryptically added, "We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area... it's the implementation area. That's where they implement, and that is no longer around," he added.However, the Maduro government has so far neither confirmed nor denied the attack. If true, it could amount to the first land strike of the US military campaign against drug trafficking from Latin America.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</a>When asked point-blank to confirm or deny the attack, Maduro said, "This could be something we talk about in a few days."Since September, US forces have repeatedly targeted what Washington alleges are drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. According to US officials, more than 20 vessels have been hit, with at least 100 people killed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"Wherever they want and whenever they want," Maduro said of the idea of dialogue with the US in an interview on state TV.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, on Thursday (Jan 1), said he was open to cooperation with the United States on drug trafficking, oil and other issues. This comes after weeks of growing American military pressure in the region. Appearing for an interview on state TV, the Venezuelan president commented that the talks can happen "wherever they want and whenever they want." However, when asked about a US military attack on a Venezuelan dock announced this week by President Donald Trump, he declined to comment. Also read | 'I don't want to say': Trump confirms first US land strike on Venezuela, acts secretive about exact details Did the US attack a Venezuelan dock? Earlier this week, Trump announced that the US had carried out a land strike on a Venezuelan dock, linked to alleged drug boats. While he confirmed the strike, Trump did not disclose where the dock was located, when the strike occurred, or which US agency carried it out. When pressed on whether the CIA was involved, Trump replied cryptically: "I don't want to say that. I know exactly who it was, but I don't want to say who it was". He cryptically added, "We hit all the boats, and now we hit the area... it's the implementation area. That's where they implement, and that is no longer around," he added. However, the Maduro government has so far neither confirmed nor denied the attack. If true, it could amount to the first land strike of the US military campaign against drug trafficking from Latin America. Also read | Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell' When asked point-blank to confirm or deny the attack, Maduro said, "This could be something we talk about in a few days." Since September, US forces have repeatedly targeted what Washington alleges are drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. According to US officials, more than 20 vessels have been hit, with at least 100 people killed.

"Wherever they want and whenever they want," Maduro said of the idea of dialogue with the US in an interview on state TV.

'Whenever they want': Venezuela's Maduro says open to talks with Trump's US

The Russian Defence Ministry said on Thursday that it has handed over proof that the Ukrainian military had targeted a Russian presidential residence this week. It said that a senior Russian military chief handed over part of a Ukrainian drone containing data to a US military attache. On Monday, Moscow accused Kyiv of trying to strike a residence of President Vladimir Putin in Russia’s northern Novgorod region with 91 long-range attack drones, after which Russia said it would review its negotiating position in ongoing talks with the US on ending the Ukraine war.&nbsp;Ukraine and Western countries disputed Russia’s account of the alleged attempted strike.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-killed-as-protests-over-high-inflation-economic-woes-turn-violent-in-iran-1767284635163">3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran</a>&nbsp;A video posted on the Russian Defence Ministry’s Telegram channel showed Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handing to the US attache what he described as the controlling mechanism of a drone found among downed fragments.&nbsp;“The decryption of the content of the memory of the navigation controller of the drones carried out by specialists of Russia’s special services confirms without question that the target of the attack was the complex of buildings of the Russian president’s residence in Novgorod region,” Kostyukov said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-gutted-in-fire-was-built-illegally-officials-colluded-with-owners-probe-report-1767278546548">Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners</a>&nbsp;“We presume that this measure will do away with any questions and allow for the truth to be established.”The Russian Defence Ministry had earlier posted a statement on Telegram saying its findings would be turned over to the United States.&nbsp;US media reports on Wednesday said that the US national security officials had found that Ukraine did not target Putin or any of his residences in a drone strike.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shares-new-york-post-editorial-highly-critical-of-putin-signalling-displeasure-1767270412761">Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump initially told reporters on Monday that Putin had informed him of the alleged incident and that he was “very angry” about it, but by Wednesday, Trump shared on social media a New York Post editorial accusing Russia of blocking peace in Ukraine.&nbsp;Ukraine denied carrying out any such attack and said the accusation was part of a Russian disinformation campaign meant to drive a wedge between Kyiv and Washington after a meeting between Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>

Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handed over the controlling mechanism of a drone found among the downed fragments to a representative of the military attaché's office at the US Embassy in Moscow.

The Russian Defence Ministry said on Thursday that it has handed over proof that the Ukrainian military had targeted a Russian presidential residence this week. It said that a senior Russian military chief handed over part of a Ukrainian drone containing data to a US military attache. On Monday, Moscow accused Kyiv of trying to strike a residence of President Vladimir Putin in Russia’s northern Novgorod region with 91 long-range attack drones, after which Russia said it would review its negotiating position in ongoing talks with the US on ending the Ukraine war. Ukraine and Western countries disputed Russia’s account of the alleged attempted strike. Also Read: 3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran A video posted on the Russian Defence Ministry’s Telegram channel showed Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handing to the US attache what he described as the controlling mechanism of a drone found among downed fragments. “The decryption of the content of the memory of the navigation controller of the drones carried out by specialists of Russia’s special services confirms without question that the target of the attack was the complex of buildings of the Russian president’s residence in Novgorod region,” Kostyukov said. Also Read: Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners “We presume that this measure will do away with any questions and allow for the truth to be established.” The Russian Defence Ministry had earlier posted a statement on Telegram saying its findings would be turned over to the United States. US media reports on Wednesday said that the US national security officials had found that Ukraine did not target Putin or any of his residences in a drone strike. Also Read: Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure US President Donald Trump initially told reporters on Monday that Putin had informed him of the alleged incident and that he was “very angry” about it, but by Wednesday, Trump shared on social media a New York Post editorial accusing Russia of blocking peace in Ukraine. Ukraine denied carrying out any such attack and said the accusation was part of a Russian disinformation campaign meant to drive a wedge between Kyiv and Washington after a meeting between Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. Also Read: Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia

Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handed over the controlling mechanism of a drone found among the downed fragments to a representative of the military attaché's office at the US Embassy in Moscow.

Handed proof of attempted Ukrainian strike on Putin residence to US: Russia

Saudi Arabia carried out 356 executions in 2025, the highest number ever recorded in the kingdom within a single year. The sharp rise has been widely linked to the government’s intensified crackdown on narcotics, according to analysts. Much of the increase reflects cases that had been moving through the courts for years, with death sentences now being carried out following final convictions. According to official figures cited by news agency Agence France-Presse, 243 executions last year were tied specifically to drug-related offences.&nbsp;The latest figures surpass the previous record set in 2024, when 338 people were executed, marking a second consecutive year of unprecedented use of capital punishment. Executions for drug crimes were reinstated in late 2022 after a roughly three-year pause, signalling a tougher stance as authorities escalated what they describe as a “war on drugs.” Saudi Arabia is a major destination for fenethylline, commonly known as Captagon, a synthetic stimulant that once represented Syria’s largest export during the rule of former president Bashar al-Assad, according to the UN.&nbsp;As part of its anti-drug campaign, Saudi authorities have expanded security operations, setting up additional checkpoints on major roads and at border crossings. These efforts have led to the seizure of millions of pills and the arrest of dozens of suspected traffickers. Foreign nationals make up a significant share of those executed for drug-related crimes, rights groups have noted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-s-aden-air-traffic-halted-amid-saudi-uae-rivalry-as-rift-deepens-passengers-stranded-1767270447605">Yemen’s Aden airport air traffic halted amid Saudi-UAE rivalry as rift deepens; passengers stranded</a>&nbsp;The kingdom continues to face international criticism over its use of the death penalty, with human rights organisations arguing that the practice clashes with Saudi Arabia’s attempts to project a more progressive image globally. Critics say the persistence of capital punishment undermines the Vision 2030 reform agenda championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which seeks to portray the country as more open and socially tolerant.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in tourism, entertainment, and global sporting events, including hosting the 2034 football World Cup, as part of its plan to reduce dependence on oil revenues. Saudi officials maintain that executions are essential for safeguarding public safety and stress that death sentences are carried out only after the legal process, including appeals, has been fully completed. Amnesty International has tracked executions in the kingdom since 1990, though reliable data from earlier decades remains limited.

Saudi Arabia carried out 356 executions in 2025 amid drug crackdown

Saudi Arabia carried out 356 executions in 2025, the highest number ever recorded in the kingdom within a single year. The sharp rise has been widely linked to the government’s intensified crackdown on narcotics, according to analysts. Much of the increase reflects cases that had been moving through the courts for years, with death sentences now being carried out following final convictions. According to official figures cited by news agency Agence France-Presse, 243 executions last year were tied specifically to drug-related offences. The latest figures surpass the previous record set in 2024, when 338 people were executed, marking a second consecutive year of unprecedented use of capital punishment. Executions for drug crimes were reinstated in late 2022 after a roughly three-year pause, signalling a tougher stance as authorities escalated what they describe as a “war on drugs.” Saudi Arabia is a major destination for fenethylline, commonly known as Captagon, a synthetic stimulant that once represented Syria’s largest export during the rule of former president Bashar al-Assad, according to the UN. As part of its anti-drug campaign, Saudi authorities have expanded security operations, setting up additional checkpoints on major roads and at border crossings. These efforts have led to the seizure of millions of pills and the arrest of dozens of suspected traffickers. Foreign nationals make up a significant share of those executed for drug-related crimes, rights groups have noted. Also Read: Yemen’s Aden airport air traffic halted amid Saudi-UAE rivalry as rift deepens; passengers stranded The kingdom continues to face international criticism over its use of the death penalty, with human rights organisations arguing that the practice clashes with Saudi Arabia’s attempts to project a more progressive image globally. Critics say the persistence of capital punishment undermines the Vision 2030 reform agenda championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which seeks to portray the country as more open and socially tolerant. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in tourism, entertainment, and global sporting events, including hosting the 2034 football World Cup, as part of its plan to reduce dependence on oil revenues. Saudi officials maintain that executions are essential for safeguarding public safety and stress that death sentences are carried out only after the legal process, including appeals, has been fully completed. Amnesty International has tracked executions in the kingdom since 1990, though reliable data from earlier decades remains limited.

Saudi Arabia executed 356 people in 2025, the highest on record, with most deaths linked to drug offences amid an intensified national crackdown

All flights to and from Yemen’s Aden International Airport were halted on Thursday as the rivalry between the two Gulf powers, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, has been deepening and reshaping war-torn Yemen. Several passengers crowded the terminal at the airport, which is the main international gateway for parts of Yemen outside Houthi control, and kept waiting for any updates on their flights. Later on Thursday, Yemeni sources said flights between Aden and all destinations outside the UAE would resume.&nbsp;&nbsp;Air traffic was shut down after a row over curbs on flights to the UAE, though there were contradictory accounts.&nbsp;“We are suffering, and many other patients and elderly people here are waiting in a difficult situation,” said Awadh al-Subaihi, who was waiting for a flight to Cairo for medical treatment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-killed-as-protests-over-high-inflation-economic-woes-turn-violent-in-iran-1767284635163">3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran</a>&nbsp;The UAE backs the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) that seized large parts of southern Yemen from the internationally recognised government last month, but Saudi Arabia, which backs the government, regarded the move as a threat, triggering the biggest crisis between the two Gulf powers in decades.&nbsp;The situation is complex, as the UAE-backed STC controls the transport ministry in the internationally recognised coalition government, whose main leadership is supported by Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-gutted-in-fire-was-built-illegally-officials-colluded-with-owners-probe-report-1767278546548">Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners</a><h2> STC-controlled ministry accuses Saudi Arabia of imposing air blockade</h2>&nbsp;The ministry accused Saudi Arabia of imposing an air blockade, saying Riyadh had instituted measures requiring all flights to go via Saudi Arabia for extra checks. Saudi Arabia clarified that the restriction was only on flights between Aden and the UAE.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shares-new-york-post-editorial-highly-critical-of-putin-signalling-displeasure-1767270412761">Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure</a>&nbsp;A Saudi source denied any role in restricting the air traffic and said that the Yemeni government had imposed the requirement on flights between Aden and the UAE in order to curb escalating tensions.The Saudi source added that the STC-controlled ministry responded by ordering a full shutdown of air traffic rather than complying with the restrictions on flights to and from the UAE.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>&nbsp;Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of pressuring STC to push towards the kingdom’s borders and declared its national security a “red line”, prompting the UAE to say it was pulling its remaining forces out of Yemen.&nbsp;The Saudi-led coalition forces also launched an airstrike on the southern Yemeni port of Mukalla that the coalition said was a dock used to provide foreign military support to the separatists.

The UAE backs the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) that seized large parts of southern Yemen from the internationally recognised government last month, but Saudi Arabia, which backs the government, regarded the move as a threat.

All flights to and from Yemen’s Aden International Airport were halted on Thursday as the rivalry between the two Gulf powers, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, has been deepening and reshaping war-torn Yemen. Several passengers crowded the terminal at the airport, which is the main international gateway for parts of Yemen outside Houthi control, and kept waiting for any updates on their flights. Later on Thursday, Yemeni sources said flights between Aden and all destinations outside the UAE would resume. Air traffic was shut down after a row over curbs on flights to the UAE, though there were contradictory accounts. “We are suffering, and many other patients and elderly people here are waiting in a difficult situation,” said Awadh al-Subaihi, who was waiting for a flight to Cairo for medical treatment. Also Read: 3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran The UAE backs the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) that seized large parts of southern Yemen from the internationally recognised government last month, but Saudi Arabia, which backs the government, regarded the move as a threat, triggering the biggest crisis between the two Gulf powers in decades. The situation is complex, as the UAE-backed STC controls the transport ministry in the internationally recognised coalition government, whose main leadership is supported by Saudi Arabia. Also Read: Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners STC-controlled ministry accuses Saudi Arabia of imposing air blockade The ministry accused Saudi Arabia of imposing an air blockade, saying Riyadh had instituted measures requiring all flights to go via Saudi Arabia for extra checks. Saudi Arabia clarified that the restriction was only on flights between Aden and the UAE. Also Read: Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure A Saudi source denied any role in restricting the air traffic and said that the Yemeni government had imposed the requirement on flights between Aden and the UAE in order to curb escalating tensions. The Saudi source added that the STC-controlled ministry responded by ordering a full shutdown of air traffic rather than complying with the restrictions on flights to and from the UAE. Also Read: Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of pressuring STC to push towards the kingdom’s borders and declared its national security a “red line”, prompting the UAE to say it was pulling its remaining forces out of Yemen. The Saudi-led coalition forces also launched an airstrike on the southern Yemeni port of Mukalla that the coalition said was a dock used to provide foreign military support to the separatists.

The UAE backs the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) that seized large parts of southern Yemen from the internationally recognised government last month, but Saudi Arabia, which backs the government, regarded the move as a threat.

Yemen’s Aden airport air traffic halted amid Saudi-UAE rivalry as rift deepens; passengers stranded

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic expressed hope Thursday that Russia and Hungary could quickly wrap up the sale of a Serbian oil company caught up in Washington's sanctions against the Kremlin over the invasion of Ukraine.US sanctions on the Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS), which is majority-owned by Russian companies, forced the shutdown in early December of Serbia's sole oil refinery, which supplies around 80 percent of the Balkan country's fuel needs.&nbsp;While the United States has demanded the total withdrawal of Russian ownership from NIS, Belgrade said on Wednesday that Washington had granted the firm a temporary reprieve allowing the Pancevo refinery to resume operations until January 23.&nbsp;According to Belgrade, Gazprom is in negotiation with the Hungarian fossil fuel company MOL to sell the 56-percent stake controlled by Gazprom Neft and Intelligence, two subsidiaries of the Russian giant."I hope that the Russians and Hungarians will finish their work" by the January 23 deadline, Vucic told the press Thursday.&nbsp;The president added that the refinery could import crude again from January 5 and would be working at full steam by around January 17, days before the deadline set by Washington. The US measures have hit hard in Serbia, a key Kremlin ally and one of the few European countries not to have imposed sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war.Serbia sold a majority stake in NIS to Gazprom for 400 million euros ($470 million at current rates) in 2008, with the Russian firm investing several billion euros in the company since.&nbsp;The Serbian president had previously said that Russia, a key ally of Belgrade which supplies the majority of the Balkan country's natural gas needs, was not interested in reselling its shares in NIS to Serbia. Given the firm's importance to the Serbian economy, Vucic had repeatedly promised that the government would step in should no agreement on the sale of Russian shares be reached by January 15. NIS employs some 13,500 people, and in 2024 contributed more than two billion euros ($2.5 billion) in tax revenue, or nearly 12 percent of the national budget, according to the firm's annual report.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

While the United States has demanded the total withdrawal of Russian ownership from NIS, Belgrade said on Wednesday that Washington had granted the firm a temporary reprieve allowing the Pancevo refinery to resume operations until January 23.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic expressed hope Thursday that Russia and Hungary could quickly wrap up the sale of a Serbian oil company caught up in Washington's sanctions against the Kremlin over the invasion of Ukraine. US sanctions on the Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS), which is majority-owned by Russian companies, forced the shutdown in early December of Serbia's sole oil refinery, which supplies around 80 percent of the Balkan country's fuel needs. While the United States has demanded the total withdrawal of Russian ownership from NIS, Belgrade said on Wednesday that Washington had granted the firm a temporary reprieve allowing the Pancevo refinery to resume operations until January 23. According to Belgrade, Gazprom is in negotiation with the Hungarian fossil fuel company MOL to sell the 56-percent stake controlled by Gazprom Neft and Intelligence, two subsidiaries of the Russian giant. "I hope that the Russians and Hungarians will finish their work" by the January 23 deadline, Vucic told the press Thursday. The president added that the refinery could import crude again from January 5 and would be working at full steam by around January 17, days before the deadline set by Washington. The US measures have hit hard in Serbia, a key Kremlin ally and one of the few European countries not to have imposed sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war. Serbia sold a majority stake in NIS to Gazprom for 400 million euros ($470 million at current rates) in 2008, with the Russian firm investing several billion euros in the company since. The Serbian president had previously said that Russia, a key ally of Belgrade which supplies the majority of the Balkan country's natural gas needs, was not interested in reselling its shares in NIS to Serbia. Given the firm's importance to the Serbian economy, Vucic had repeatedly promised that the government would step in should no agreement on the sale of Russian shares be reached by January 15. NIS employs some 13,500 people, and in 2024 contributed more than two billion euros ($2.5 billion) in tax revenue, or nearly 12 percent of the national budget, according to the firm's annual report. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

While the United States has demanded the total withdrawal of Russian ownership from NIS, Belgrade said on Wednesday that Washington had granted the firm a temporary reprieve allowing the Pancevo refinery to resume operations until January 23.

Serbian president hopes for quick sale of Russian-controlled oil firm

During a press conference on Thursday (January 1), Swiss authorities said that around 40 people died and at least 115 others have been injured, many of them severely, following a devastating fire that broke out overnight. Officials described the incident as one of the worst tragedies in the country’s recent history. Speaking at a press conference, police commander Frederic Gisler said the immediate priority is identifying those who lost their lives so their bodies can be returned to their families as quickly as possible.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the fire as “one of the worst tragedies that our country has experienced,” calling it a “drama of an unknown scale.” Parmelin said many lives had been lost and roughly 100 people injured, some critically. He added that the lives affected had been “interrupted or damaged forever,” noting that no words could fully capture the “brutal loss” suffered by victims and their families. He offered condolences on behalf of the nation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-killed-as-protests-over-high-inflation-economic-woes-turn-violent-in-iran-1767284635163">3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran</a>&nbsp;Regional governor Mathias Reynard provided details on the scale of the emergency response, which included 42 ambulances, 13 helicopters, and three disaster-response trucks. He said a significant number of those injured were classified as being in critical condition. As per Reynard, around 60 people are currently receiving treatment at Sion hospital, while others have been transferred to hospitals in different Swiss cities. He added that France, Germany, and Italy have offered assistance, including taking patients with severe burns.&nbsp;Medical services remain under intense pressure. Reynard has urged the public to act responsibly and avoid going to hospitals unless necessary, to prevent further strain on emergency and healthcare staff. Authorities also said that it is too early to determine the cause of the fire.<h2>What happened in Switzerland bar fire?</h2>A deadly fire swept through a crowded bar in the Swiss resort town of Crans-Montana early Thursday (January 1), killing 40 and leaving more than 100 others injured, according to authorities. The blaze broke out around 1:30 am during New Year’s celebrations. The venue involved was a basement nightclub called Le Constellation. Witnesses near the scene suggested that fireworks or similar pyrotechnic effects may have sparked the fire. A 19-year-old identified as Melko told Swiss newspaper 24 heures that he had noticed small pyrotechnic devices placed on bottles inside the bar.&nbsp;He claimed one of them ignited the ceiling, causing flames to spread rapidly.&nbsp;As the fire broke out, panic ensued. People reportedly rushed toward the only exit, which was reached via stairs leading from the underground venue into a narrow corridor. However, Valais Canton Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud warned against speculation. She emphasised that investigators had not yet been able to access the damaged interior and that determining the cause would take time. Pilloud added that authorities are still working to identify the victims and notify their families. She said it would be premature to confirm an exact death toll while the investigation remains ongoing.

Switzerland bar fire kills 40, police say; witnesses blame pyrotechnic devices

During a press conference on Thursday (January 1), Swiss authorities said that around 40 people died and at least 115 others have been injured, many of them severely, following a devastating fire that broke out overnight. Officials described the incident as one of the worst tragedies in the country’s recent history. Speaking at a press conference, police commander Frederic Gisler said the immediate priority is identifying those who lost their lives so their bodies can be returned to their families as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the fire as “one of the worst tragedies that our country has experienced,” calling it a “drama of an unknown scale.” Parmelin said many lives had been lost and roughly 100 people injured, some critically. He added that the lives affected had been “interrupted or damaged forever,” noting that no words could fully capture the “brutal loss” suffered by victims and their families. He offered condolences on behalf of the nation. Also Read: 3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran Regional governor Mathias Reynard provided details on the scale of the emergency response, which included 42 ambulances, 13 helicopters, and three disaster-response trucks. He said a significant number of those injured were classified as being in critical condition. As per Reynard, around 60 people are currently receiving treatment at Sion hospital, while others have been transferred to hospitals in different Swiss cities. He added that France, Germany, and Italy have offered assistance, including taking patients with severe burns. Medical services remain under intense pressure. Reynard has urged the public to act responsibly and avoid going to hospitals unless necessary, to prevent further strain on emergency and healthcare staff. Authorities also said that it is too early to determine the cause of the fire. What happened in Switzerland bar fire? A deadly fire swept through a crowded bar in the Swiss resort town of Crans-Montana early Thursday (January 1), killing 40 and leaving more than 100 others injured, according to authorities. The blaze broke out around 1:30 am during New Year’s celebrations. The venue involved was a basement nightclub called Le Constellation. Witnesses near the scene suggested that fireworks or similar pyrotechnic effects may have sparked the fire. A 19-year-old identified as Melko told Swiss newspaper 24 heures that he had noticed small pyrotechnic devices placed on bottles inside the bar. He claimed one of them ignited the ceiling, causing flames to spread rapidly. As the fire broke out, panic ensued. People reportedly rushed toward the only exit, which was reached via stairs leading from the underground venue into a narrow corridor. However, Valais Canton Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud warned against speculation. She emphasised that investigators had not yet been able to access the damaged interior and that determining the cause would take time. Pilloud added that authorities are still working to identify the victims and notify their families. She said it would be premature to confirm an exact death toll while the investigation remains ongoing.

A New Year’s fire at a basement bar in Crans-Montana killed dozens and injured multiple people, as Swiss authorities begin investigation

At least three people have been killed in southwest Iran after clashes between protesters and security forces, said authorities. Protests broke out over the weekend in Iran over soaring inflation. Local media outlets reported clashes, stone pelting, and damage to property. Three deaths were reported from Lordegan, Kuhdasht, and Isfahan, but Iranian media and rights groups reported several casualties during the unrest sparked by soaring inflation and falling currency value. The semi-official Fars news agency and rights group Hengaw reported deaths in Lordegan, a city in western Iran, while Iranian authorities confirmed one death in the western city of Kuhdasht. Hengaw reported another death in the central province of Isfahan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-gutted-in-fire-was-built-illegally-officials-colluded-with-owners-probe-report-1767278546548">Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners</a>&nbsp;As per reports, one person was killed on Wednesday and two on Thursday in two cities predominantly home to Iran’s Lur ethnic group.One of the deceased has been identified as 21-year-old Amirhossam Khodayari Fard, a member of the paramilitary Basij militia, which is deployed to suppress unrest.&nbsp;<h2>High inflation triggers unrest; clashes mark escalation</h2>&nbsp;The clashes mark an escalation in the unrest, which has spread across Iran after shopkeepers began protests on Sunday over inflation and the depreciating currency. The protests have now spread to Iran’s rural provinces also.&nbsp;The rate of inflation in Iran is at a high of 40 per cent, made worse by Western sanctions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shares-new-york-post-editorial-highly-critical-of-putin-signalling-displeasure-1767270412761">Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure</a>&nbsp;The Iranian government has offered dialogue after the protests, signalling a softer and conciliatory approach. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said on Thursday that authorities would hold a direct dialogue with representatives of trade unions and merchants but did not elaborate further.The deputy governor of Lorestan Province said that 13 police officers and Basij members were injured during stone throwing during demonstrations in Kouhdasht.&nbsp;<h2>Revolutionary Guards blame demonstrators</h2>&nbsp;The protests against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have taken a violent turn with the onset of the New Year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>&nbsp;Hengaw said several people were killed and wounded in Lordegan by security forces. The Revolutionary Guards blamed demonstrators, accusing them of “taking advantage of the atmosphere of popular protests”.&nbsp;The unrest comes amid a critical period for Iran’s clerical leadership, as Western sanctions have severely impacted the economy, driving inflation up to 42.5% in December. The Iranian rial lost around half its value against the dollar in 2025.

Rights group Hengaw said several people were killed and wounded in Lordegan by security forces. The Revolutionary Guards blamed demonstrators, accusing them of “taking advantage of the atmosphere of popular protests”.

At least three people have been killed in southwest Iran after clashes between protesters and security forces, said authorities. Protests broke out over the weekend in Iran over soaring inflation. Local media outlets reported clashes, stone pelting, and damage to property. Three deaths were reported from Lordegan, Kuhdasht, and Isfahan, but Iranian media and rights groups reported several casualties during the unrest sparked by soaring inflation and falling currency value. The semi-official Fars news agency and rights group Hengaw reported deaths in Lordegan, a city in western Iran, while Iranian authorities confirmed one death in the western city of Kuhdasht. Hengaw reported another death in the central province of Isfahan. Also Read: Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners As per reports, one person was killed on Wednesday and two on Thursday in two cities predominantly home to Iran’s Lur ethnic group. One of the deceased has been identified as 21-year-old Amirhossam Khodayari Fard, a member of the paramilitary Basij militia, which is deployed to suppress unrest. High inflation triggers unrest; clashes mark escalation The clashes mark an escalation in the unrest, which has spread across Iran after shopkeepers began protests on Sunday over inflation and the depreciating currency. The protests have now spread to Iran’s rural provinces also. The rate of inflation in Iran is at a high of 40 per cent, made worse by Western sanctions. Also Read: Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure The Iranian government has offered dialogue after the protests, signalling a softer and conciliatory approach. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said on Thursday that authorities would hold a direct dialogue with representatives of trade unions and merchants but did not elaborate further. The deputy governor of Lorestan Province said that 13 police officers and Basij members were injured during stone throwing during demonstrations in Kouhdasht. Revolutionary Guards blame demonstrators The protests against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have taken a violent turn with the onset of the New Year. Also Read: Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia Hengaw said several people were killed and wounded in Lordegan by security forces. The Revolutionary Guards blamed demonstrators, accusing them of “taking advantage of the atmosphere of popular protests”. The unrest comes amid a critical period for Iran’s clerical leadership, as Western sanctions have severely impacted the economy, driving inflation up to 42.5% in December. The Iranian rial lost around half its value against the dollar in 2025.

Rights group Hengaw said several people were killed and wounded in Lordegan by security forces. The Revolutionary Guards blamed demonstrators, accusing them of “taking advantage of the atmosphere of popular protests”.

3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran

A Hindu man in Bangladesh suffered serious injuries after allegedly being attacked by a group of assailants who stabbed him and set him on fire, in a case that has once again drawn attention to the growing insecurity faced by religious minorities in the country. The victim, 50-year-old Khokon Das, was reportedly on his way home on December 31 when he was stopped by a mob in Shariatpur district. According to local reports, the attackers assaulted him with sharp weapons, beat him severely, doused him with petrol, and then set him ablaze.&nbsp;Despite suffering multiple stab wounds and burn injuries, Das managed to save his life by jumping into a nearby pond. He was later pulled out by residents and taken to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, where doctors described his condition as critical. The incident occurred around the same time External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Dhaka to attend the funeral of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia. During the visit, Jaishankar delivered a condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP leader Tarique Rahman.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/human-radar-man-sits-on-moving-car-bonnet-to-guide-driver-through-zero-visibility-fog-internet-reacts-1767267578124">Human radar? Man sits on moving car bonnet to guide driver through zero-visibility fog, internet reacts</a>&nbsp;Following the visit, Bangladesh expressed hope for renewed engagement with India. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, said on social media that both countries were aiming to strengthen ties based on shared interests, pragmatism, and mutual dependence.<h2>Growing attacks on minority communities</h2>This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence targeting Hindus in Bangladesh. In recent weeks, unrest following the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to multiple mob attacks. In Mymensingh, garment worker Dipu Chandra Das was reportedly beaten to death and his body burned by a mob, with bystanders filming the attack.&nbsp;In another case on December 24, 29-year-old Amrit Mondal was allegedly lynched in the Hossaindanga area of Kalimohar Union. Separately, a 40-year-old Hindu man was killed after being shot inside a garment factory in what police termed an accidental discharge by a coworker.&nbsp;India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said that nearly 2,900 incidents involving attacks on minorities have been recorded since Bangladesh came under an interim government. Bangladesh, currently under a transitional administration headed by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, is navigating political uncertainty amid preparations for elections, while deteriorating law and order has heightened fear among minority communities.

Another Hindu man attacked, set ablaze by mob in Bangladesh: Reports

A Hindu man in Bangladesh suffered serious injuries after allegedly being attacked by a group of assailants who stabbed him and set him on fire, in a case that has once again drawn attention to the growing insecurity faced by religious minorities in the country. The victim, 50-year-old Khokon Das, was reportedly on his way home on December 31 when he was stopped by a mob in Shariatpur district. According to local reports, the attackers assaulted him with sharp weapons, beat him severely, doused him with petrol, and then set him ablaze. Despite suffering multiple stab wounds and burn injuries, Das managed to save his life by jumping into a nearby pond. He was later pulled out by residents and taken to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, where doctors described his condition as critical. The incident occurred around the same time External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Dhaka to attend the funeral of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia. During the visit, Jaishankar delivered a condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP leader Tarique Rahman. Also Read: Human radar? Man sits on moving car bonnet to guide driver through zero-visibility fog, internet reacts Following the visit, Bangladesh expressed hope for renewed engagement with India. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, said on social media that both countries were aiming to strengthen ties based on shared interests, pragmatism, and mutual dependence. Growing attacks on minority communities This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence targeting Hindus in Bangladesh. In recent weeks, unrest following the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to multiple mob attacks. In Mymensingh, garment worker Dipu Chandra Das was reportedly beaten to death and his body burned by a mob, with bystanders filming the attack. In another case on December 24, 29-year-old Amrit Mondal was allegedly lynched in the Hossaindanga area of Kalimohar Union. Separately, a 40-year-old Hindu man was killed after being shot inside a garment factory in what police termed an accidental discharge by a coworker. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said that nearly 2,900 incidents involving attacks on minorities have been recorded since Bangladesh came under an interim government. Bangladesh, currently under a transitional administration headed by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, is navigating political uncertainty amid preparations for elections, while deteriorating law and order has heightened fear among minority communities.

A Hindu man was critically injured after a mob attack in Bangladesh. This comes in the wake of growing violence and insecurity faced by minority communities

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