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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his condolences on the death of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Khaleda Zia passed away at the age of 80, after a prolonged illness, her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced on Tuesday (Dec 30). She was admitted in Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23 and was on ventilator support since December 11. In his message, PM Modi highlighted her important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations. Sharing pictures of his meeting with Khaleda Zia in 2015, PM Modi said that her vision and legacy will continue to guide India-Bangladesh partnership.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss. As the… <a href="https://t.co/BLg6K52vak">pic.twitter.com/BLg6K52vak</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2005855695787507912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What was her role in development of Bangladesh-India ties?</h2>Though Khaleda Zia is credited for expansion of India-Bangladesh ties, her successor Sheikh Hasina is seen to be the friendlier one with New Delhi. Khaleda Zia maintained an overall cautious, and balanced Indian ties with that with China and Pakistan. Khaleda Zia positioned her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) as a “protector of Bangladesh’s interests”, often at the backdrop of anti-India rhetoric.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-s-first-female-pm-khaleda-zia-dies-after-prolonged-illness-1767058663201">Bangladesh’s first female PM Khaleda Zia dies after prolonged illness</a>&nbsp;She opposed overland transit and connectivity links with India, both as PM and as Leader of the Opposition. As Prime Minister, she also refused India transit rights across Bangladeshi territory to the northeastern states, arguing it infringed on her country's security and sovereignty.&nbsp;She also argued Indian trucks' toll-free use of Bangladeshi roads was akin to 'slavery'. She opposed renewal of the 1972 Indo-Bangladesh Friendship Treaty. During Zia's tenure, India’s Farakka Barrage became the major reason of conflict between the two countries. As per reports, the barrage helps reduce silt, improves navigability around Kolkata Port and supplies fresh water to the city, but Zia maintained that it deprived Bangladesh of its rightful share of Ganges water. In 2007, she accused India of opening sluice gates to aggravate flooding in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-killing-of-hindu-men-bangladesh-turns-focus-on-communal-violence-in-india-asks-new-delhi-to-conduct-impartial-probe-1766973194418">Despite killing of Hindu men, Bangladesh turns focus on communal violence in India, asks New Delhi to 'conduct impartial probe'</a>&nbsp;Khaleda Zia's foreign policy also became a reason for tensed India-Bangladesh relations. In 2002, Zia actively pursued defence cooperation with China. New Delhi, at that time, also accused the then BNP government of sheltering separatist groups operating in India’s northeastern states afterZia described insurgent outfits such as ULFA and NSCN as “freedom fighters.”&nbsp;Khaleda Zia's political fortune went downhill after Awami League won election in 2008. Zia opposed the Hasina government, calling her efforts “struggle for democracy.” She was placed under house arrest twice during movements she launched against the government. In 2018, she &nbsp;sentenced to five years’ imprisonment by a special court in Dhaka in corruption cases. Her jail sentence was suspended on March 25, 2020, when the then Awami League government temporarily released her through an executive order amid the COVID-19 pandemic, on the condition that she remain in her Gulshan home and not leave the country. She was finally released after 2024 uprising led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi condoled the death of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia, who died at 80 after a prolonged illness. Modi recalled her contributions to Bangladesh and India ties. A complex leader, Zia often opposed India but later sought pragmatic engagement with Delhi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his condolences on the death of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Khaleda Zia passed away at the age of 80, after a prolonged illness, her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced on Tuesday (Dec 30). She was admitted in Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23 and was on ventilator support since December 11. In his message, PM Modi highlighted her important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations. Sharing pictures of his meeting with Khaleda Zia in 2015, PM Modi said that her vision and legacy will continue to guide India-Bangladesh partnership.

PM Narendra Modi condoled the death of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia, who died at 80 after a prolonged illness. Modi recalled her contributions to Bangladesh and India ties. A complex leader, Zia often opposed India but later sought pragmatic engagement with Delhi.

PM Modi 'deeply saddened' on Khaleda Zia's demise: What was her role in development of Bangladesh-India ties

The father and son duo, who opened fire at the crowd at Bondi Beach on December 14, had “meticulously planned” the attack for months, Australian police said on Tuesday (Dec 30). Sajid Akram and his son Naveed are accused of killing 15 people and injuring dozens of other people during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah in an ISIS-inspired attack.Australian Federal Police commissioner Krissy Barrett said that the Bondi shooters “acted alone” and were not part of a wider terrorist cell.&nbsp;“These individuals are alleged to have acted alone,” she told reporters. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out the attack.”The pair travelled to the southern Philippines city of Davao, where they were seen leaving a budget hotel in CCTV footage. Barrett said that police will continue to investigate why they travelled to the Southeastern country.“I want to be clear. I am not suggesting they were there for tourism,” she said.The police also believe that the gunmen “meticulously planned” the attack for months. Police have alleged that the accused trained for the attack in the Australian countryside.“The accused and his father are seen throughout the video firing shotguns and moving in a tactical manner,” a court document states. The police said that the two carried out “firearms training” in what was believed to be the New South Wales countryside before the shooting, which happened on December 14.The duo accused of carrying out the attack also visited Bondi Beach days before the mass shooting for a “reconnaissance” trip, the police documents revealed.The shooters also recorded an extremist video, in which they condemned the “Zionists”. In the video, which was recovered from one of the accused’s phones, the father and son were seen sitting in front of an Islamic State flag, reciting verses from the Quran. The two also made statements “regarding their motivation for the ‘Bondi attack’”.

Sajid Akram and his son Naveed are accused of killing 15 people and injuring dozens of other people during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah in an ISIS-inspired attack.

The father and son duo, who opened fire at the crowd at Bondi Beach on December 14, had “meticulously planned” the attack for months, Australian police said on Tuesday (Dec 30). Sajid Akram and his son Naveed are accused of killing 15 people and injuring dozens of other people during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah in an ISIS-inspired attack. Australian Federal Police commissioner Krissy Barrett said that the Bondi shooters “acted alone” and were not part of a wider terrorist cell. “These individuals are alleged to have acted alone,” she told reporters. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out the attack.” The pair travelled to the southern Philippines city of Davao, where they were seen leaving a budget hotel in CCTV footage. Barrett said that police will continue to investigate why they travelled to the Southeastern country. “I want to be clear. I am not suggesting they were there for tourism,” she said. The police also believe that the gunmen “meticulously planned” the attack for months. Police have alleged that the accused trained for the attack in the Australian countryside. “The accused and his father are seen throughout the video firing shotguns and moving in a tactical manner,” a court document states. The police said that the two carried out “firearms training” in what was believed to be the New South Wales countryside before the shooting, which happened on December 14. The duo accused of carrying out the attack also visited Bondi Beach days before the mass shooting for a “reconnaissance” trip, the police documents revealed. The shooters also recorded an extremist video, in which they condemned the “Zionists”. In the video, which was recovered from one of the accused’s phones, the father and son were seen sitting in front of an Islamic State flag, reciting verses from the Quran. The two also made statements “regarding their motivation for the ‘Bondi attack’”.

Sajid Akram and his son Naveed are accused of killing 15 people and injuring dozens of other people during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah in an ISIS-inspired attack.

‘Meticulously planned’: Were Bondi Beach shooters part of broader terror cell? Australian police reveal…

History was made on December 30th, 2025, when Hindustan Aeronautics Limited conducted the inaugural flight of the ALH Dhruv – NG in the distinguished presence of Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon'ble Minister of Civil Aviation, and Dr D K Sunil, CMD of HAL. This momentous occasion marks not just the maiden flight of an aircraft, but the dawn of a new era in Indian civil aviation – one powered by indigenous innovation and engineering excellence.&nbsp;Picture this: a helicopter completely designed and built in India, powerful enough to soar over the Himalayas, yet gentle enough to transport a newborn baby from a remote village to a city hospital. That's the Dhruv NG for you – not just another aircraft, but a statement of what Indian engineering can achieve when ambition meets capability.&nbsp;Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, or HAL as we fondly know it, has crafted something truly special with the Dhruv New Generation. This isn't some lightweight machine that struggles in our diverse terrain. We're talking about a robust 5.5-tonne, twin-engine helicopter that laughs in the face of challenges – whether it's the scorching Rajasthan desert, the monsoon-drenched Western Ghats, or the oxygen-thin heights of Ladakh. The beauty lies in how it's been upgraded specifically for the global civil aviation market, meeting international safety standards while keeping its Indian soul intact.&nbsp;What makes the Dhruv NG a genuine game changer? Let's start with its heart – the twin Shakti 1H1C engines. These powerhouses are completely indigenous, meaning when maintenance is needed, we don't have to wait months for foreign technicians or imported parts. Everything happens right here in India. Imagine the cost savings and the pride of self-reliance! The cockpit resembles something straight out of a science fiction movie – a glass cockpit meeting AS4 requirements with modern avionics that give pilots exceptional situational awareness. It's like comparing a smartphone to those old push-button phones. Just like how ISI marks on electrical appliances or FSSAI certification on food products tell you they're safe and meet quality standards, AS4 certification tells pilots and passengers that the Dhruv NG's cockpit is world-class and meets international aviation safety benchmarks. This certification is particularly important because it allows the Dhruv NG to compete in the global market and be accepted by civil aviation authorities worldwide.&nbsp;Safety isn't just a checkbox here; it's woven into every component. Crashworthy seats protect passengers during hard landings, self-sealing fuel tanks prevent disasters, and the twin-engine setup ensures that if one engine faces trouble, the other keeps everyone safe. For those worried about comfort, the advanced vibration control system ensures rides so smooth that you could sip chai without spilling a drop, even while flying at 285 kilometers per hour.&nbsp;The numbers tell their own story of capability. With a range of 630 kilometers, this helicopter can fly from Delhi to Jaipur and back. Its service ceiling touches 6,000 meters – high enough to operate comfortably in most mountainous regions where roads don't reach. The internal payload capacity of 1,000 kilograms means serious cargo-carrying ability, while the spacious 7.33 cubic meter cabin transforms like a Swiss Army knife for different missions.&nbsp;Here's where things get truly exciting for civil aviation. The Dhruv NG isn't locked into one role. Need to transport a business delegation in luxury? Configure it for four to six VIP passengers with plush furnishings. Running a helicopter taxi service? Fit in fourteen passengers for commuter operations. Working in emergency medical services? Install four stretchers with space for a doctor and attendant, turning it into a flying intensive care unit. Offshore oil rigs, law enforcement operations, disaster relief – this versatile machine handles everything with equal finesse.&nbsp;For India's civil aviation sector, currently dominated by expensive imported helicopters, the Dhruv NG arrives as a cost-effective alternative that doesn't compromise on performance. HAL's "One-Stop Solution" approach means manufacturing, maintenance, and upgrades all happen domestically. The integrated logistics models like Power-By-Hour and Performance-Based Logistics ensure helicopters spend maximum time flying rather than grounded for repairs.&nbsp;The Dhruv NG represents more than technological achievement – it's about Indian innovation serving Indian needs while competing globally. When our engineers build machines that can save lives in medical emergencies, connect remote communities, support businesses, and prove reliable in the world's most challenging operational environments, we're not just making helicopters. We're crafting India's future in aviation, one rotor blade at a time. This is the game changer our civil aviation has been waiting for.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, or HAL as we fondly know it, has crafted something truly special with the Dhruv New Generation. This isn't some lightweight machine that struggles in our diverse terrain. 

History was made on December 30th, 2025, when Hindustan Aeronautics Limited conducted the inaugural flight of the ALH Dhruv – NG in the distinguished presence of Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon'ble Minister of Civil Aviation, and Dr D K Sunil, CMD of HAL. This momentous occasion marks not just the maiden flight of an aircraft, but the dawn of a new era in Indian civil aviation – one powered by indigenous innovation and engineering excellence. Picture this: a helicopter completely designed and built in India, powerful enough to soar over the Himalayas, yet gentle enough to transport a newborn baby from a remote village to a city hospital. That's the Dhruv NG for you – not just another aircraft, but a statement of what Indian engineering can achieve when ambition meets capability. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, or HAL as we fondly know it, has crafted something truly special with the Dhruv New Generation. This isn't some lightweight machine that struggles in our diverse terrain. We're talking about a robust 5.5-tonne, twin-engine helicopter that laughs in the face of challenges – whether it's the scorching Rajasthan desert, the monsoon-drenched Western Ghats, or the oxygen-thin heights of Ladakh. The beauty lies in how it's been upgraded specifically for the global civil aviation market, meeting international safety standards while keeping its Indian soul intact. What makes the Dhruv NG a genuine game changer? Let's start with its heart – the twin Shakti 1H1C engines. These powerhouses are completely indigenous, meaning when maintenance is needed, we don't have to wait months for foreign technicians or imported parts. Everything happens right here in India. Imagine the cost savings and the pride of self-reliance! The cockpit resembles something straight out of a science fiction movie – a glass cockpit meeting AS4 requirements with modern avionics that give pilots exceptional situational awareness. It's like comparing a smartphone to those old push-button phones. Just like how ISI marks on electrical appliances or FSSAI certification on food products tell you they're safe and meet quality standards, AS4 certification tells pilots and passengers that the Dhruv NG's cockpit is world-class and meets international aviation safety benchmarks. This certification is particularly important because it allows the Dhruv NG to compete in the global market and be accepted by civil aviation authorities worldwide. Safety isn't just a checkbox here; it's woven into every component. Crashworthy seats protect passengers during hard landings, self-sealing fuel tanks prevent disasters, and the twin-engine setup ensures that if one engine faces trouble, the other keeps everyone safe. For those worried about comfort, the advanced vibration control system ensures rides so smooth that you could sip chai without spilling a drop, even while flying at 285 kilometers per hour. The numbers tell their own story of capability. With a range of 630 kilometers, this helicopter can fly from Delhi to Jaipur and back. Its service ceiling touches 6,000 meters – high enough to operate comfortably in most mountainous regions where roads don't reach. The internal payload capacity of 1,000 kilograms means serious cargo-carrying ability, while the spacious 7.33 cubic meter cabin transforms like a Swiss Army knife for different missions. Here's where things get truly exciting for civil aviation. The Dhruv NG isn't locked into one role. Need to transport a business delegation in luxury? Configure it for four to six VIP passengers with plush furnishings. Running a helicopter taxi service? Fit in fourteen passengers for commuter operations. Working in emergency medical services? Install four stretchers with space for a doctor and attendant, turning it into a flying intensive care unit. Offshore oil rigs, law enforcement operations, disaster relief – this versatile machine handles everything with equal finesse. For India's civil aviation sector, currently dominated by expensive imported helicopters, the Dhruv NG arrives as a cost-effective alternative that doesn't compromise on performance. HAL's "One-Stop Solution" approach means manufacturing, maintenance, and upgrades all happen domestically. The integrated logistics models like Power-By-Hour and Performance-Based Logistics ensure helicopters spend maximum time flying rather than grounded for repairs. The Dhruv NG represents more than technological achievement – it's about Indian innovation serving Indian needs while competing globally. When our engineers build machines that can save lives in medical emergencies, connect remote communities, support businesses, and prove reliable in the world's most challenging operational environments, we're not just making helicopters. We're crafting India's future in aviation, one rotor blade at a time. This is the game changer our civil aviation has been waiting for.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, or HAL as we fondly know it, has crafted something truly special with the Dhruv New Generation. This isn't some lightweight machine that struggles in our diverse terrain.&nbsp;

HAL’s Dhruv-NG: The day India took over the civilian skies

After US President Donald Trump claimed credit for ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, China has jumped in to take the credit for peace between the two Southasian nations. Without naming Trump or US, China highlighted that its efforts to promote peace and dialogue is a genuine process which does not “impose on others or overstep its bounds.” Chinese government-run tabloid The Global Times said in an editorial that China does not adopt a condescending approach when mediating between two nations. The Chinese statement came after its foreign minister Wang Yi hosted his Cambodian and Thai counterparts for three-way talks on Dec 29. The development took place in the aftermath of renewed clashes between the two countries and Trump's failed attempt to bring peace via a phone call.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Global Times wrote, “Unlike many past mediations dominated by the West, China does not adopt a condescending approach, impose political conditions or seek geopolitical advantages." In a separate bilateral meeting Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Yi said, “China’s efforts to promote peace and dialogue never impose on others or overstep its bounds." This is seen as Beijing's taunt at the US as President Trump has repeatedly said that he used “trade and tariff to put pressure” on warring countries and bring peace.<h2>China's interests in Thailand-Cambodia</h2>China has multiple strong interests in wanting a lasting ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia:<ol><li>&nbsp;Beijing wants to protect its extensive strategic investments and economic corridors in both countries.</li></ol>2. China, which is already dealing with tensions with Japan over Taiwan, does not want regional instability. In its neighbourhood, China is already concerned about the civil war in Myanmar.&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Beijing is also seeking to establish its influence in South-east Asia to challenge US engagement in the region. It is aiming to repeat what it did in 2023. China played a pivotal role in brokering the historic March agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia to restore diplomatic ties, ending a seven-year rift.&nbsp;4. While the US played a more diplomatic role, Beijing is getting involved in ground efforts like helping with landmine removal operations and providing support to the ASEAN Observer Team monitoring the ceasefire.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-is-the-real-un-trump-jumps-in-to-claim-credit-for-thailand-cambodia-ceasefire-takes-dig-at-united-nations-1766978597128">'US is the real UN': Trump jumps in to claim credit for Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire, takes dig at United Nations</a><h2>Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire and violations</h2>Thailand's military has accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement on Dec 29. The Royal Thai Army claims that over 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying across the border from Cambodia late Sunday (December 28) night. Thailand warned that it might reconsider the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand since July, depending on the continuation of these violations. Cambodia downplayed the incident with Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn calling the drone sightings a "small issue" and stating that both sides had witnessed similar activities along the border.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-cambodia-agree-to-immediate-ceasefire-ending-weeks-of-deadly-border-clashes-1766807921165">Thailand, Cambodia agree to ‘immediate’ ceasefire, ending weeks of deadly border clashes</a>&nbsp;Thailand and Cambodia on Saturday (Dec 27) announced that they have agreed to an “immediate” ceasefire. The recent clashes killed at least 47 people, while about a million were displaced. Both sides have agreed to freeze the movement of troops and allow civilians living in the border regions to return to their homes as soon as possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-such-disrespectful-acts-india-reacts-to-demolition-of-hindu-deity-statue-at-thailand-cambodia-border-1766631856293">'Such disrespectful acts': India reacts to demolition of Hindu deity statue at Thailand-Cambodia border</a><h2>What triggered Nov-Dec clashes?</h2>The fresh clashes were triggered after a Thai soldier was injured by a landmine, allegedly placed near disputed border area by Cambodia, in November. Cambodia denied the claims, but the Thai soldier died later prompting Thailand to launch an air strike. Earlier this year, both sides exchanged fire near the disputed border area and a Cambodian soldier was killed. Intense clashes erupted thereafter that continued for approximately a week. Trump stepped in using trade as a negotiation tactic and a ceasefire was declared. The Southeast Asian nations - Thailand and Cambodia - dispute the colonial-era demarcation of their 800-kilometre (500-mile) border. Both countries also claim the land surrounding the 11th-century Preah Vihear Temple as their own.

China has jumped in to claim credit for the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire, projecting its low-key diplomacy as more effective than US pressure tactics. Hosting trilateral talks in Yunnan, Beijing helped secure a roadmap to stabilise ties, even as ceasefire violations continues

After US President Donald Trump claimed credit for ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, China has jumped in to take the credit for peace between the two Southasian nations. Without naming Trump or US, China highlighted that its efforts to promote peace and dialogue is a genuine process which does not “impose on others or overstep its bounds.” Chinese government-run tabloid The Global Times said in an editorial that China does not adopt a condescending approach when mediating between two nations. The Chinese statement came after its foreign minister Wang Yi hosted his Cambodian and Thai counterparts for three-way talks on Dec 29. The development took place in the aftermath of renewed clashes between the two countries and Trump's failed attempt to bring peace via a phone call. The Global Times wrote, “Unlike many past mediations dominated by the West, China does not adopt a condescending approach, impose political conditions or seek geopolitical advantages." In a separate bilateral meeting Thai foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Yi said, “China’s efforts to promote peace and dialogue never impose on others or overstep its bounds." This is seen as Beijing's taunt at the US as President Trump has repeatedly said that he used “trade and tariff to put pressure” on warring countries and bring peace. China's interests in Thailand-Cambodia China has multiple strong interests in wanting a lasting ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia: Beijing wants to protect its extensive strategic investments and economic corridors in both countries. 2. China, which is already dealing with tensions with Japan over Taiwan, does not want regional instability. In its neighbourhood, China is already concerned about the civil war in Myanmar. 3. Beijing is also seeking to establish its influence in South-east Asia to challenge US engagement in the region. It is aiming to repeat what it did in 2023. China played a pivotal role in brokering the historic March agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia to restore diplomatic ties, ending a seven-year rift. 4. While the US played a more diplomatic role, Beijing is getting involved in ground efforts like helping with landmine removal operations and providing support to the ASEAN Observer Team monitoring the ceasefire. Also Read: 'US is the real UN': Trump jumps in to claim credit for Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire, takes dig at United Nations Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire and violations Thailand's military has accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement on Dec 29. The Royal Thai Army claims that over 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying across the border from Cambodia late Sunday (December 28) night. Thailand warned that it might reconsider the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand since July, depending on the continuation of these violations. Cambodia downplayed the incident with Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn calling the drone sightings a "small issue" and stating that both sides had witnessed similar activities along the border. Also Read: Thailand, Cambodia agree to ‘immediate’ ceasefire, ending weeks of deadly border clashes Thailand and Cambodia on Saturday (Dec 27) announced that they have agreed to an “immediate” ceasefire. The recent clashes killed at least 47 people, while about a million were displaced. Both sides have agreed to freeze the movement of troops and allow civilians living in the border regions to return to their homes as soon as possible. Also Read: 'Such disrespectful acts': India reacts to demolition of Hindu deity statue at Thailand-Cambodia border What triggered Nov-Dec clashes? The fresh clashes were triggered after a Thai soldier was injured by a landmine, allegedly placed near disputed border area by Cambodia, in November. Cambodia denied the claims, but the Thai soldier died later prompting Thailand to launch an air strike. Earlier this year, both sides exchanged fire near the disputed border area and a Cambodian soldier was killed. Intense clashes erupted thereafter that continued for approximately a week. Trump stepped in using trade as a negotiation tactic and a ceasefire was declared. The Southeast Asian nations - Thailand and Cambodia - dispute the colonial-era demarcation of their 800-kilometre (500-mile) border. Both countries also claim the land surrounding the 11th-century Preah Vihear Temple as their own.

China has jumped in to claim credit for the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire, projecting its low-key diplomacy as more effective than US pressure tactics. Hosting trilateral talks in Yunnan, Beijing helped secure a roadmap to stabilise ties, even as ceasefire violations continues

China jumps in to take credit for Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire despite violations — What exactly is it's role? Has it sidelined Trump's US?

The Miami Herald investigative reporter, who is known for her reporting of the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, has found her flight details of an American Airlines flight in Epstein's files on the day Epstein was arrested. In a post on the social media platform, Julie called out the Department of Justice for why her flight details were present along with a grand jury subpoena. The flight date corresponds to the day Epstein was arrested by federal agents. He was charged with one count of sex trafficking and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Does somebody at the DOJ want to tell me why my American Airlines booking information and flights in July 2019 are part of the Epstein files (attached to a grand jury subpoena)? As the flight itinerary includes my maiden name (and I did book this flight) why was the DOJ… <a href="https://t.co/m1mgP6pdgk">pic.twitter.com/m1mgP6pdgk</a>&mdash; julie k. brown (@jkbjournalist) <a href="https://twitter.com/jkbjournalist/status/2005374836881633511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In 2008, Epstein was convicted of sex trafficking of a minor. But he received a lenient sentence of 18 months in county prison. In prison, he was allotted a separate wing, and the door of the cell was always open. He would leave for 12 hours a day, six days a week, for work purposes. He was released after serving less than 13 months of that sentence. The deal also saw unconditional immunity for any possible coconspirator. The secret deal was struck between Alex Acosta, then United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Epstein's lawyers Alan Dershowitz, Kenneth Starr, Roy Black, Jay Lefkowitz and Guy Lewis.&nbsp;Julie Knipe Brown's series of interviews with Epstein's victims in 2018, featured in the Miami Herald, has been credited with reactivating the investigation. She spoke to nearly 80 alleged victims of Epstein, as young as 13 or 14, during the time of abuse. Those interviews were collated and later published in her book “Perversion of Justice”. Her investigation led to the resignation of Alex Acosta in 2019, serving as the Labour Secretary for Donald Trump.&nbsp;Brown said she was expecting her name to appear in the Epstein files due to her extensive reporting on his crimes in South Florida; however, she was shocked to find her travel itinerary along with her maiden name. While some on social media argued that the DOJ subpoenaed the travel records of Epstein victims, and she might have booked a flight for a victim.&nbsp;

Miami Herald reporter Julie K. Brown says her American Airlines flight details appeared in Jeffrey Epstein's files on the day of his arrest, raising questions for the DOJ.

The Miami Herald investigative reporter, who is known for her reporting of the late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, has found her flight details of an American Airlines flight in Epstein's files on the day Epstein was arrested. In a post on the social media platform, Julie called out the Department of Justice for why her flight details were present along with a grand jury subpoena. The flight date corresponds to the day Epstein was arrested by federal agents. He was charged with one count of sex trafficking and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors.

Miami Herald reporter Julie K. Brown says her American Airlines flight details appeared in Jeffrey Epstein's files on the day of his arrest, raising questions for the DOJ.

Epstein files reveal Miami Herald reporter Julie Brown’s flight details on day of his arrest

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Dec 29) confirmed that Washington has carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs".<h2>Does Trump not know who was responsible for the strike?</h2>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"."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.Venezuela's government has not commented, and it remains unclear whether the strike took place on Venezuelan soil.<h2>POTUS casually confirms land strike</h2>This was the second time Trump has publicly referred to a land attack. Previously, he mentioned a strike on a "big facility" during a radio interview last week without offering details. So far, neither the White House nor the Pentagon has released images or video of the alleged dock strike, a departure from earlier US operations in which visual evidence was shared online.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. On Monday, US Southern Command said two alleged "narco-terrorists" were killed in a "lethal kinetic strike" in the eastern Pacific, though it did not link that operation to the dock explosion described by Trump. &nbsp;

Donald Trump has casually confirmed the first US land strike on Venezuela, claiming a drug-linked dock was hit in a “major explosion”. He refused to say who carried it out or where it happened. However, as of now, there are no images, no details, and no response from Caracas.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Dec 29) confirmed that Washington has carried out the first land strikes on Venezuela. The US president said that the US attacked the "dock area" linked to alleged drug boats. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the strike caused a "major explosion" at a site he claimed "they load the boats up with drugs". Does Trump not know who was responsible for the strike? 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". "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. Venezuela's government has not commented, and it remains unclear whether the strike took place on Venezuelan soil. POTUS casually confirms land strike This was the second time Trump has publicly referred to a land attack. Previously, he mentioned a strike on a "big facility" during a radio interview last week without offering details. So far, neither the White House nor the Pentagon has released images or video of the alleged dock strike, a departure from earlier US operations in which visual evidence was shared online. 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. On Monday, US Southern Command said two alleged "narco-terrorists" were killed in a "lethal kinetic strike" in the eastern Pacific, though it did not link that operation to the dock explosion described by Trump.

Donald Trump has casually confirmed the first US land strike on Venezuela, claiming a drug-linked dock was hit in a “major explosion”. He refused to say who carried it out or where it happened. However, as of now, there are no images, no details, and no response from Caracas.&nbsp;

'I don't want to say': Trump confirms first US land strike on Venezuela, acts secretive about exact details

China conducted a second live-fire drill around Taiwan on Tuesday (Dec 30) as tensions rise with the island. Beijing has said that the military drills are aimed at simulating a blockade of the self-ruled island’s key ports and assaults on maritime targets. A day earlier, China conducted military exercises across five zones in the waters and airspace near Taiwan. The two-day drills, which have been termed as “Justice Mission 2025” drew condemnation from Taipei as “military intimidation”.China’s top diplomat said that Beijing would “forcefully counter” large-scale US weapons sales to Taiwan.“In response to the continuous provocations by pro-independence forces in Taiwan and the large-scale US arms sales to Taiwan, we must of course, resolutely oppose and forcefully counter them,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in a speech on Tuesday.&nbsp;He added that any attempt to stop China’s unification with Taiwan “will inevitably end in failure.”Meanwhile, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has vowed on Tuesday that his territory would not “provoke” or “escalate the conflict”.“In response to the Chinese authorities’ disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries, Taiwan expresses its strong condemnation,” Taiwan’s Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said in a statement a day earlier.<h2>Rockets fired, 130 aircraft near Taiwan</h2>Taiwan said on Tuesday that it detected 130 Chinese military aircraft near the island within 24 hours. It also said that a total of 14 Chinese navy ships and eight unspecified vessels were spotted.On Monday (Dec 29), the Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command said in a statement 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.”The activities will focus on “sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain,” Senior Colonel Shi Yi said.The drills are “a stern warning against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity,” Shi added.

Beijing has said that the military drills are aimed at simulating a blockade of the self-ruled island’s key ports and assaults on maritime targets.

China conducted a second live-fire drill around Taiwan on Tuesday (Dec 30) as tensions rise with the island. Beijing has said that the military drills are aimed at simulating a blockade of the self-ruled island’s key ports and assaults on maritime targets. A day earlier, China conducted military exercises across five zones in the waters and airspace near Taiwan. The two-day drills, which have been termed as “Justice Mission 2025” drew condemnation from Taipei as “military intimidation”. China’s top diplomat said that Beijing would “forcefully counter” large-scale US weapons sales to Taiwan. “In response to the continuous provocations by pro-independence forces in Taiwan and the large-scale US arms sales to Taiwan, we must of course, resolutely oppose and forcefully counter them,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in a speech on Tuesday. He added that any attempt to stop China’s unification with Taiwan “will inevitably end in failure.” Meanwhile, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has vowed on Tuesday that his territory would not “provoke” or “escalate the conflict”. “In response to the Chinese authorities’ disregard for international norms and the use of military intimidation to threaten neighbouring countries, Taiwan expresses its strong condemnation,” Taiwan’s Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said in a statement a day earlier. Rockets fired, 130 aircraft near Taiwan Taiwan said on Tuesday that it detected 130 Chinese military aircraft near the island within 24 hours. It also said that a total of 14 Chinese navy ships and eight unspecified vessels were spotted. On Monday (Dec 29), the Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command said in a statement 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.” The activities will focus on “sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain,” Senior Colonel Shi Yi said. The drills are “a stern warning against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity,” Shi added.

Beijing has said that the military drills are aimed at simulating a blockade of the self-ruled island’s key ports and assaults on maritime targets.

‘Must forcefully counter US...’: China conducts second military drill as Taiwan vows not to ‘provoke’

US President Donald Trump said he was "glad" his administration had not supplied Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles, after Russian President Vladimir Putin told him Kyiv allegedly targeted one of his official residences in a drone attack. Ukraine has dismissed the claim as fabricated. According to a Kremlin readout of a phone call between the two leaders, Putin told Trump that Ukraine had carried out what he described as a "terrorist attack" using drones against a residence linked to the Russian presidency. Moscow claimed Trump was "shocked" and "literally outraged" by the account.<h2>US relieved it didn't give Tomahawks to Ukraine?</h2>The Kremlin statement claims that when told about the alleged attack on Putin's residence, Trump remarked that he "couldn’t even imagine such crazy actions" and added that the alleged incident would inevitably affect Washington's approach toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. It also quoted Trump as saying, "thank God, the current administration hasn’t given ‘Tomahawks’".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-mamdani-epstein-hasina-pope-leo-xiv-elon-musk-luigi-mangione-shubhanshu-shukla-global-headlines-2025-most-talked-about-people-1766740930763">Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people</a><h2>Is Trump angry at Zelensky?</h2>Trump later confirmed the call, describing it as "a very good talk," while acknowledging that several "thorny issues" remained unresolved. Speaking to reporters, he said he was "very angry" when Putin raised the alleged attack, arguing that targeting a leader's residence crossed a different line than battlefield operations. He said it was one thing to "be offensive" and another "to attack his (Putin's) house".At the same time, Trump conceded that the Russian claim might not be accurate. Asked whether US intelligence had verified the incident, he said it was "possible" the attack did not happen as described.<h2>Putin's residence attacked?</h2>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov asserted that Russian air defences intercepted drones aimed at a presidential retreat in the Novgorod region, though no evidence has been made public. The location is not Putin's primary residence and is typically used as a retreat.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-us-of-harsh-response-after-trump-vows-to-eradicate-nuclear-programme-1767055651432">Iran warns US of ‘harsh response’ after Trump vows to ‘eradicate’ nuclear programme</a>Ukraine categorically denied the accusation. Zelensky said Moscow was spreading falsehoods to derail diplomatic momentum between Kyiv and Washington, especially after his recent meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Calling the allegation "Another round of lies from the Russian Federation," Zelensky told reporters that Russia views improving US-Ukraine relations as a setback to its war aims."It is clear that we had a meeting with Trump yesterday, and it is clear that for the Russians, if there is no scandal between us and America, and we are making progress—for them it is a failure, because they do not want to end this war".

Donald Trump says he is glad the US never gave Ukraine Tomahawk missiles after Vladimir Putin claimed Kyiv targeted a Russian presidential residence. Ukraine denies the charge, calling it a lie to sabotage diplomacy, as Trump admits the attack may never have happened.

US President Donald Trump said he was "glad" his administration had not supplied Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles, after Russian President Vladimir Putin told him Kyiv allegedly targeted one of his official residences in a drone attack. Ukraine has dismissed the claim as fabricated. According to a Kremlin readout of a phone call between the two leaders, Putin told Trump that Ukraine had carried out what he described as a "terrorist attack" using drones against a residence linked to the Russian presidency. Moscow claimed Trump was "shocked" and "literally outraged" by the account. US relieved it didn't give Tomahawks to Ukraine? The Kremlin statement claims that when told about the alleged attack on Putin's residence, Trump remarked that he "couldn’t even imagine such crazy actions" and added that the alleged incident would inevitably affect Washington's approach toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. It also quoted Trump as saying, "thank God, the current administration hasn’t given ‘Tomahawks’". Also read | Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people Is Trump angry at Zelensky? Trump later confirmed the call, describing it as "a very good talk," while acknowledging that several "thorny issues" remained unresolved. Speaking to reporters, he said he was "very angry" when Putin raised the alleged attack, arguing that targeting a leader's residence crossed a different line than battlefield operations. He said it was one thing to "be offensive" and another "to attack his (Putin's) house". At the same time, Trump conceded that the Russian claim might not be accurate. Asked whether US intelligence had verified the incident, he said it was "possible" the attack did not happen as described. Putin's residence attacked? Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov asserted that Russian air defences intercepted drones aimed at a presidential retreat in the Novgorod region, though no evidence has been made public. The location is not Putin's primary residence and is typically used as a retreat. Also read | Iran warns US of ‘harsh response’ after Trump vows to ‘eradicate’ nuclear programme Ukraine categorically denied the accusation. Zelensky said Moscow was spreading falsehoods to derail diplomatic momentum between Kyiv and Washington, especially after his recent meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Calling the allegation "Another round of lies from the Russian Federation," Zelensky told reporters that Russia views improving US-Ukraine relations as a setback to its war aims. "It is clear that we had a meeting with Trump yesterday, and it is clear that for the Russians, if there is no scandal between us and America, and we are making progress—for them it is a failure, because they do not want to end this war".

Donald Trump says he is glad the US never gave Ukraine Tomahawk missiles after Vladimir Putin claimed Kyiv targeted a Russian presidential residence. Ukraine denies the charge, calling it a lie to sabotage diplomacy, as Trump admits the attack may never have happened.

Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence?

Two days after the first phase of elections were concluded in Myanmar, the pro-military party, Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), has claimed a landslide victory, reported news agency AFP citing a senior party official. According to the figures, the party won over 80 per cent of the lower house seats where voting was held in Sunday. The report also quoted party official saying that it won as many as eight townships in the capital Naypyidaw. While the UN has called the elections under the military junta as “sham," the news agency cited a senior member of the Union Solidarity and Development Party as saying, "We won 82 lower house seats in townships which have finished counting, out of the total of 102."&nbsp;USDP is described as the civilian proxy of the country's military. The party was defeated by Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) in the polls held in 2020. However, after 2021 military coup, Aung San Suu Kyi's party was dissolved, and she has been in house arrest with nothing known about her location. Her party did not participate in the ongoing polls.<h2>Myanmar holds election after five years of civil war</h2>Myanmar is holding three-phased elections even as the country battles a civil war that led to Asia's worst humanitarian crises. The elections are being held in three phases - Dec 28, Jan 11, Jan 25. Myanmar is being ruled by military junta since 2021 after it staged a coup overthrowing an elected civilian government led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi. While international community has denounced the polls as “sham”, Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing said that the country's elections are “free and fair”, adding, “it is organised by the military, we can't let our name be tarnished.”&nbsp;&nbsp;However, a law enacted by military regime ahead of the polls has put a question mark on the entire process. In July 2025, Myanmar’s military junta enacted the "Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic General Elections from Obstruction, Disruption, and Destruction", popularly known as the Election Protection Law. It imposes death penalty or life imprisonment for those who damage ballot boxes, 10-20 years imprisonment for those who cause "Serious injury" to voters and 3-10 years of imprisonment for those who try to sabotage election in any way.<h2>What is India's stance on Myanmar elections?</h2>India on Friday (Dec 26) expressed support for democratic transition and free, fair as well as inclusive elections in Myanmar. It highlighted that “participation of all stakeholders is important for the credibility of the electoral exercise.” Though Myanmar's junta backed media reported that election observation teams from India along with Russia, China, and Vietnam are in Yangon, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said he doesn't have an update about it, and he would clarify the matter soon.

Myanmar’s pro-military USDP claimed a landslide win in the first phase of elections, winning over 80% lower house seats. The UN called the polls a sham amid civil war. India urged free, fair and inclusive elections despite junta rule since 2021.

Two days after the first phase of elections were concluded in Myanmar, the pro-military party, Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), has claimed a landslide victory, reported news agency AFP citing a senior party official. According to the figures, the party won over 80 per cent of the lower house seats where voting was held in Sunday. The report also quoted party official saying that it won as many as eight townships in the capital Naypyidaw. While the UN has called the elections under the military junta as “sham," the news agency cited a senior member of the Union Solidarity and Development Party as saying, "We won 82 lower house seats in townships which have finished counting, out of the total of 102." USDP is described as the civilian proxy of the country's military. The party was defeated by Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) in the polls held in 2020. However, after 2021 military coup, Aung San Suu Kyi's party was dissolved, and she has been in house arrest with nothing known about her location. Her party did not participate in the ongoing polls. Myanmar holds election after five years of civil war Myanmar is holding three-phased elections even as the country battles a civil war that led to Asia's worst humanitarian crises. The elections are being held in three phases - Dec 28, Jan 11, Jan 25. Myanmar is being ruled by military junta since 2021 after it staged a coup overthrowing an elected civilian government led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi. While international community has denounced the polls as “sham”, Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing said that the country's elections are “free and fair”, adding, “it is organised by the military, we can't let our name be tarnished.” However, a law enacted by military regime ahead of the polls has put a question mark on the entire process. In July 2025, Myanmar’s military junta enacted the "Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic General Elections from Obstruction, Disruption, and Destruction", popularly known as the Election Protection Law. It imposes death penalty or life imprisonment for those who damage ballot boxes, 10-20 years imprisonment for those who cause "Serious injury" to voters and 3-10 years of imprisonment for those who try to sabotage election in any way. What is India's stance on Myanmar elections? India on Friday (Dec 26) expressed support for democratic transition and free, fair as well as inclusive elections in Myanmar. It highlighted that “participation of all stakeholders is important for the credibility of the electoral exercise.” Though Myanmar's junta backed media reported that election observation teams from India along with Russia, China, and Vietnam are in Yangon, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said he doesn't have an update about it, and he would clarify the matter soon.

Myanmar’s pro-military USDP claimed a landslide win in the first phase of elections, winning over 80% lower house seats. The UN called the polls a sham amid civil war. India urged free, fair and inclusive elections despite junta rule since 2021.

Myanmar's pro-military party USDP claims landslide victory in first phase of elections - What we know about the polls?

Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has passed away at the age of 80, after a prolonged illness, her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced on Tuesday (Dec 30). Her personal physician on Sunday had said that she was in an "extremely critical" condition. She was admitted in Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23 and was on ventilator support since December 11. In a statement, the BNP said that she passed away today at 6:00 a.m., shortly after the Fajr prayer. “We pray for the forgiveness of her soul and request everyone to offer prayers for her departed soul,” it wrote in a post on X. Zia's death comes at a time when Bangladesh is going through a political turmoil, with elections scheduled in February, 2026. Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in self-imposed exile and is being seen as a frontrunner for the upcoming polls.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away today at 6:00 a.m., shortly after the Fajr prayer. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji‘un. We pray for the forgiveness of her soul and request everyone to offer prayers for her departed soul. <a href="https://t.co/KY2948UPD5">pic.twitter.com/KY2948UPD5</a>&mdash; Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) <a href="https://twitter.com/bdbnp78/status/2005817539113161047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-killing-of-hindu-men-bangladesh-turns-focus-on-communal-violence-in-india-asks-new-delhi-to-conduct-impartial-probe-1766973194418">Despite killing of Hindu men, Bangladesh turns focus on communal violence in India, asks New Delhi to 'conduct impartial probe'</a><h2>Begum Khaleda Zia and her life</h2>Daughter of Iskandar Majumder and Taiyaba Majumder, Khaleda Zia was born on August 15, 1946. Her father had migrated to what was then West Pakistan following Partition from Jalpaiguri in India where he had run a tea business. The family originally hails from Feni, a southeastern district of the country. She studied at Dinajpur Government Girls High School and later at Surendranath College. In 1960, she married Ziaur Rahman. The first time she came close to power was when Ziaur Rahman Bir Uttam became the President of Bangladesh in 1977.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-true-power-of-bangladesh-always-lies-in-its-people-when-united-khaleda-zia-s-son-tarique-rahman-s-unity-pitch-amid-violence-on-minorities-1766909860928">'True power of Bangladesh always lies in its people, when united': Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman's 'unity' pitch amid violence on minorities</a>&nbsp;In 1981, Ziaur Rahman was killed in a military coup. Khaleda Zia took over BNP and became the face of democratic movement in Bangladesh. She became the architect of forming a seven-party alliance in 1983 to put an end to dictatorship. She rejected the rigged election of 1986 and did not participate in the election while her rivals from Awami League, Jamaat-e-Islami and Communist Party of Bangladesh joined the election under Jatiya Party-led rule to endorse the government. She was detained seven times from 1983 to 1990. She made BNP's student front, Jatiotabadi Chatra Dal (JCD) a strong entity and they won 270 of 321 student unions across the country. In 1991, Khaleda Zia became the country's first woman prime minister through a free and fair general election on February 27 of the year. However in 1996, the party lost the polls, but won 116 seats to become the largest opposition in the parliament in the history of Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-matter-of-grave-concern-india-condemns-killing-of-hindu-youth-in-bangladesh-1766747138904">'Matter of grave concern': India condemns killing of Hindu youth in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;Aiming to return to power, the BNP formed a four-party opposition alliance in 1999 with the Jatiya Party, the Jamaat-e-Islami, and the Islami Oikya Jote and launched several agitation programs against the ruling Awami League. Begum Khaleda Zia was re-elected in 2001. At that time, Forbes magazine ranked her at number 29 in 2005 in its list of the hundred most powerful women in the world. In 2006, she stepped down from office, passing power to a caretaker administration. In September 2007, she was arrested by Sheikh Hasina-led government on charges of corruption. Zia was sentenced to 17 years in prison in 2018 for the Zia Orphanage Trust and Zia Charitable Trust corruption cases. She was released from imprisonment in August 2024 after student uprising in the country led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government and she fled Bangladesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister Khaleda Zia died at 80 after a prolonged illness, BNP announced on Dec 30. A key figure in Bangladesh politics, she led the BNP, served twice as PM, and played a major role in the pro-democracy movement.

Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has passed away at the age of 80, after a prolonged illness, her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced on Tuesday (Dec 30). Her personal physician on Sunday had said that she was in an "extremely critical" condition. She was admitted in Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23 and was on ventilator support since December 11. In a statement, the BNP said that she passed away today at 6:00 a.m., shortly after the Fajr prayer. “We pray for the forgiveness of her soul and request everyone to offer prayers for her departed soul,” it wrote in a post on X. Zia's death comes at a time when Bangladesh is going through a political turmoil, with elections scheduled in February, 2026. Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in self-imposed exile and is being seen as a frontrunner for the upcoming polls.

Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister Khaleda Zia died at 80 after a prolonged illness, BNP announced on Dec 30. A key figure in Bangladesh politics, she led the BNP, served twice as PM, and played a major role in the pro-democracy movement.

Bangladesh’s first female PM Khaleda Zia dies after prolonged illness: From democracy icon to years in jail – Here's all about her

Iran on Monday (Dec 29) warned the United States that any aggression against the country would bring "immediate harsh response". This comes as US President Donald Trump vowed to "eradicate" any attempt to reactivate Iran's nuclear capabilities. Iran's top political advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Ali Shamkhani, in a post on X, stated that the nation's military strength will not be discussed or limited through talks. Writing on X, he emphasised that Tehran's "Missile Capability and defense are not containable or permission-based". Should any hostile act occur, he noted, the reaction would surpass the aggressor's "imagination".&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-mamdani-epstein-hasina-pope-leo-xiv-elon-musk-luigi-mangione-shubhanshu-shukla-global-headlines-2025-most-talked-about-people-1766740930763">Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people</a><h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Trump, on Monday, threatened Iran against trying to rebuild its nuclear missile programme, saying he would "knock them down". Ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the POTUS said, “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down".&nbsp;“We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them,” he vowed, adding that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability. Advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US, he said, “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them”.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-2025-redacted-newsom-goes-full-troll-mode-on-trump-over-epstein-files-redactions-watch-viral-video-1766730541310">'2025: REDACTED': Newsom goes full troll mode on Trump over Epstein files redactions. Watch viral video</a>"I hope they're not trying to build up again because if they are, we're going have no choice but very quickly to eradicate that buildup," Trump said, adding that the US response "may be more powerful than the last time." However, Trump insisted that he believed Iran was still interested in a deal with Washington on its nuclear and missile programs. Tehran denies that it is seeking nuclear weapons. &nbsp;

Iran has issued a blunt warning to Washington, saying any attack will trigger an immediate and harsh response. The message follows Donald Trump’s threat to wipe out Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Iran on Monday (Dec 29) warned the United States that any aggression against the country would bring "immediate harsh response". This comes as US President Donald Trump vowed to "eradicate" any attempt to reactivate Iran's nuclear capabilities. Iran's top political advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Ali Shamkhani, in a post on X, stated that the nation's military strength will not be discussed or limited through talks. Writing on X, he emphasised that Tehran's "Missile Capability and defense are not containable or permission-based". Should any hostile act occur, he noted, the reaction would surpass the aggressor's "imagination". Also read | Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people What did Trump say? Trump, on Monday, threatened Iran against trying to rebuild its nuclear missile programme, saying he would "knock them down". Ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the POTUS said, “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down". “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them,” he vowed, adding that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability. Advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US, he said, “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them”. Also read | '2025: REDACTED': Newsom goes full troll mode on Trump over Epstein files redactions. Watch viral video "I hope they're not trying to build up again because if they are, we're going have no choice but very quickly to eradicate that buildup," Trump said, adding that the US response "may be more powerful than the last time." However, Trump insisted that he believed Iran was still interested in a deal with Washington on its nuclear and missile programs. Tehran denies that it is seeking nuclear weapons.

Iran has issued a blunt warning to Washington, saying any attack will trigger an immediate and harsh response. The message follows Donald Trump’s threat to wipe out Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Iran warns US of ‘harsh response’ after Trump vows to ‘eradicate’ nuclear programme

Who rings in the New Year first? Countries ranked from first to last. 

Who rings in the New Year first? Countries ranked from first to last

US President Donald Trump reannounced his support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) for his pardon request in the criminal trial against him. The American president claimed that Israel’s president told him clemency is “on its way.” “How do you not give a pardon? He is a wartime prime minister who is a hero,” Trump said alongside Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago. “I spoke with President Isaac Herzog. He tells me it is on its way.”&nbsp;Soon after this, Herzog’s office issued a statement contradicting Trump’s account, stating: “There has been no conversation between President Herzog and President Trump since the pardon request was submitted.” According to the president’s office, a few weeks ago, “Herzog spoke with a Trump representative who inquired about the request and received an explanation of the process and that any decision would follow standard procedures”.&nbsp;This was ahead of the Trump-Netanyahu meeting in Florida, where the Israeli PM heavily praised the US President. “I’ll say it again and again and again. We’ve never had a friend like President Trump in the White House. It’s not even close,” Netanyahu told reporters.&nbsp;“I think Israel is very blessed to have President Trump leading the United States, and I’ll say leading the free world at this time. I think it’s not merely Israel’s great fortune. I think it’s the world’s great fortune," he added.&nbsp;Trump - Netanyahu meeting&nbsp;The American president said ahead of the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said.&nbsp;The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago.&nbsp;Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump reannounced his support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) for his pardon request in the criminal trial against him.

US President Donald Trump reannounced his support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) for his pardon request in the criminal trial against him. The American president claimed that Israel’s president told him clemency is “on its way.” “How do you not give a pardon? He is a wartime prime minister who is a hero,” Trump said alongside Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago. “I spoke with President Isaac Herzog. He tells me it is on its way.” Soon after this, Herzog’s office issued a statement contradicting Trump’s account, stating: “There has been no conversation between President Herzog and President Trump since the pardon request was submitted.” According to the president’s office, a few weeks ago, “Herzog spoke with a Trump representative who inquired about the request and received an explanation of the process and that any decision would follow standard procedures”. This was ahead of the Trump-Netanyahu meeting in Florida, where the Israeli PM heavily praised the US President. “I’ll say it again and again and again. We’ve never had a friend like President Trump in the White House. It’s not even close,” Netanyahu told reporters. “I think Israel is very blessed to have President Trump leading the United States, and I’ll say leading the free world at this time. I think it’s not merely Israel’s great fortune. I think it’s the world’s great fortune," he added. Trump - Netanyahu meeting The American president said ahead of the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said. The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago. Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said.

US President Donald Trump reannounced his support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) for his pardon request in the criminal trial against him.

After Trump claims Netanyahu’s pardon 'on its way', Israeli prez says 'no such conversation'

US President Donald Trump, ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, said that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.”&nbsp;“I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine.&nbsp;“We have a couple of issues that we’re going to get resolved, hopefully, and if we get them resolved, you can have peace," he added.&nbsp;Trump-Netanyahu meeting&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday (Dec 29). The American president said ahead of the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said.&nbsp;The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago.&nbsp;Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-deport-every-indian-american-journalist-calls-for-mass-deportation-and-threatens-violent-attack-against-indians-1766778013685">‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians</a>&nbsp;Threat to Iran&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump also threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.”&nbsp;Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, said that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, told him that he had been attacked.

US President Donald Trump, ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, said that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.” “I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine. “We have a couple of issues that we’re going to get resolved, hopefully, and if we get them resolved, you can have peace," he added. Trump-Netanyahu meeting Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday (Dec 29). The American president said ahead of the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said. The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago. Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said. Also read: ‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians Threat to Iran Trump also threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.” Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.

US President Donald Trump, ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, said that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, told him that he had been attacked.

'President Putin told me he is attacked, it's not good': Trump

US President Donald Trump, on Monday (Dec 29), threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.”&nbsp;Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-deport-every-indian-american-journalist-calls-for-mass-deportation-and-threatens-violent-attack-against-indians-1766778013685">‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians</a>&nbsp;‘Hamas must disarm’&nbsp;Ahead of the meeting, Trump said that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said.&nbsp;The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kimmel-vs-trump-late-night-host-claims-tyranny-is-booming-in-us-says-my-country-s-president-would-like-to-shut-me-up-because-1766763187731">Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’</a>&nbsp;Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, on Monday (Dec 29), threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would knock them down. 

US President Donald Trump, on Monday (Dec 29), threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.” Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said. Also read: ‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians ‘Hamas must disarm’ Ahead of the meeting, Trump said that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said. The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago. Also read: Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’ Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said.

US President Donald Trump, on Monday (Dec 29), threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down".&nbsp;

'We’re going to have to knock them down': Trump's threat to Iran on nuke missile programme

US President Donald Trump, ahead of the meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, praised him and said that "Israel would not have existed today without him". After the meeting, the American president said the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none because of the Biden admin. Only one is left, and we are doing best to get his body back," Trump said.&nbsp;The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-deport-every-indian-american-journalist-calls-for-mass-deportation-and-threatens-violent-attack-against-indians-1766778013685">‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians</a>&nbsp;Threat to Iran&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump also threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kimmel-vs-trump-late-night-host-claims-tyranny-is-booming-in-us-says-my-country-s-president-would-like-to-shut-me-up-because-1766763187731">Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’</a>&nbsp;Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, praised him. 

US President Donald Trump, ahead of the meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, praised him and said that "Israel would not have existed today without him". After the meeting, the American president said the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none because of the Biden admin. Only one is left, and we are doing best to get his body back," Trump said. The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago. Also read: ‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians Threat to Iran Trump also threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.” Also read: Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’ Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.

US President Donald Trump, after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida, praised him.&nbsp;

'Israel won't have existed today without him': Trump praises Netanyahu

US President Donald Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday (Dec 29). The American president said ahead of the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said.&nbsp;The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago.&nbsp;Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-deport-every-indian-american-journalist-calls-for-mass-deportation-and-threatens-violent-attack-against-indians-1766778013685">‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians</a>&nbsp;Threat to Iran&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump also threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.”&nbsp;Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday (Dec 29). The American president said in the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. 

US President Donald Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday (Dec 29). The American president said ahead of the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm. "Every hostage has been released was released because of us. And none, thanks to the Biden administration. Only one is left, and we are doing our best to get his body back," Trump said. The American president, ahead of the meeting, suggested that he would try to get the second phase of the Gaza peace plan started “as quickly as we can.” “Very quickly, as quickly as we can, but there has to be a disarmament, we have to disarm with Hamas,” the president told CNN’s Kevin Liptak outside of Mar-a-Lago. Trump also said that without Netanyahu, Israel would not have existed at present. “He is a very strong man, Israel won't have existed today without him,” Trump said. Also read: ‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians Threat to Iran Trump also threatened Iran that if the country were trying to rebuild the nuclear missile programme, he would "knock them down". “I hear that Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also added, “We’ll knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.” Trump added that he would support an attack on Iran “immediately” if it attempts to redevelop its nuclear capability, advising the country instead to seek a “deal” with the US. “That’s smarter ... They could have made a deal the last time before we went through, you know, a big attack on them,” he said.

US President Donald Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday (Dec 29). The American president said in the meeting that the Palestinian militant group Hamas must disarm.&nbsp;

Trump meets Netanyahu in Florida, says Hamas must disarm

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Netanyahu also met several key members in the Trump administration earlier in the day, including special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and several other senior white house officials. &nbsp;“I had a great meeting in Florida with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio,” Netanyahu wrote on X.&nbsp;The Israeli Prime Minister is on his fifth visit to the United States this year. He is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump at 1 PM ET, with the discussion expected to focus on recent developments linked to the second phase of the Gaza peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.&nbsp;The second phase of the agreement calls for Hamas’ disarmament, reconstruction in Gaza, and the establishment of post-war governance. At the heart of the framework is a proposed “Board of Peace”, expected to include Trump and other international leaders to oversee implementation and ensure stability.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/5th-century-indian-ship-insv-kaundinya-embarks-on-maiden-voyage-pm-modi-hails-navy-1767020246163">5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy</a>&nbsp;Donald Trump unveiled a 20-point Gaza peace plan on September 27, 2025, to put an end to the two-year-long war between Israel and Palestine, triggered by one of the deadliest terror attacks by Hamas inside the Jewish state.&nbsp;The plan proposed an immediate ceasefire, phased Israeli withdrawal, hostage releases and expanded humanitarian access. On October 3, Egypt and Qatar hosted indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, leading to an agreement on a first-phase ceasefire and limited exchanges.&nbsp;On November 6, the UN Security Council endorsed key elements of the framework, urging all sides to comply. Negotiations on post-conflict governance, security guarantees and reconstruction funding continued through December 2025, with mediators pushing to extend the ceasefire and prevent a relapse into large-scale fighting.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister is on his fifth visit to the United States in 2025, reflecting his continued outreach to the US administration as he seeks a tougher Washington stance on Hamas in Gaza and concerns over Iran’s renewed missile program.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 29) held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Netanyahu also met several key members in the Trump administration earlier in the day, including special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and several other senior white house officials. “I had a great meeting in Florida with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio,” Netanyahu wrote on X. The Israeli Prime Minister is on his fifth visit to the United States this year. He is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump at 1 PM ET, with the discussion expected to focus on recent developments linked to the second phase of the Gaza peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. The second phase of the agreement calls for Hamas’ disarmament, reconstruction in Gaza, and the establishment of post-war governance. At the heart of the framework is a proposed “Board of Peace”, expected to include Trump and other international leaders to oversee implementation and ensure stability. Also Read: 5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy Donald Trump unveiled a 20-point Gaza peace plan on September 27, 2025, to put an end to the two-year-long war between Israel and Palestine, triggered by one of the deadliest terror attacks by Hamas inside the Jewish state. The plan proposed an immediate ceasefire, phased Israeli withdrawal, hostage releases and expanded humanitarian access. On October 3, Egypt and Qatar hosted indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, leading to an agreement on a first-phase ceasefire and limited exchanges. On November 6, the UN Security Council endorsed key elements of the framework, urging all sides to comply. Negotiations on post-conflict governance, security guarantees and reconstruction funding continued through December 2025, with mediators pushing to extend the ceasefire and prevent a relapse into large-scale fighting.

Israeli Prime Minister is on his fifth visit to the United States in 2025, reflecting his continued outreach to the US administration as he seeks a tougher Washington stance on Hamas in Gaza and concerns over Iran’s renewed missile program.

Ahead of Trump meeting, Netanyahu holds talks with US Secretary of State Rubio

India on Monday (Dec 29) categorically dismissed statements made by Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' charges of mistreatment of its religious minorities, saying Islamabad's "abysmal record" speaks for itself and that no amount of "finger pointing" towards others will "obfuscate" it. New Delhi also stressed that the neighbouring country wants to erase its poor record by pointing towards India, but it won't be successful, as the systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths speaks for itself.&nbsp;"We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself. Pakistan’s horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well-established fact. No amount of finger-pointing will obfuscate it," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.&nbsp;Responding to media queries regarding comments made by Pakistani Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, who urged the international community to take note of what he alleged was "targeting religious minorities" in India, including "Christmas-related vandalism and attacks on Muslims."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-ukraine-of-targeting-russia-president-vladimir-putin-s-home-zelensky-labels-it-as-lies-1767023755106">Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting president Vladimir Putin’s home; Zelensky labels it as 'lies'</a>&nbsp;Last month, Pakistan objected to the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram temple, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed Pakistan’s remarks as politically motivated and unacceptable, stating that it had no standing to comment on India’s internal matters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/5th-century-indian-ship-insv-kaundinya-embarks-on-maiden-voyage-pm-modi-hails-navy-1767020246163">5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy</a>&nbsp;MEA spokesperson Jaiswal said India had “seen the reported remarks and rejects them with the contempt they deserve,” adding that Pakistan, given its record of bigotry, repression and systemic mistreatment of minorities, lacked the moral authority to lecture others. He said Pakistan should focus on its own “abysmal human rights record” instead of making hypocritical statements.

The MEA was responding to remarks by Pakistani Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, who urged the international community to take note of what he claimed were incidents “targeting religious minorities” in India.

India on Monday (Dec 29) categorically dismissed statements made by Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' charges of mistreatment of its religious minorities, saying Islamabad's "abysmal record" speaks for itself and that no amount of "finger pointing" towards others will "obfuscate" it. New Delhi also stressed that the neighbouring country wants to erase its poor record by pointing towards India, but it won't be successful, as the systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths speaks for itself. "We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself. Pakistan’s horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well-established fact. No amount of finger-pointing will obfuscate it," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. Responding to media queries regarding comments made by Pakistani Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, who urged the international community to take note of what he alleged was "targeting religious minorities" in India, including "Christmas-related vandalism and attacks on Muslims." Also Read: Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting president Vladimir Putin’s home; Zelensky labels it as 'lies' Last month, Pakistan objected to the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram temple, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed Pakistan’s remarks as politically motivated and unacceptable, stating that it had no standing to comment on India’s internal matters. Also Read: 5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy MEA spokesperson Jaiswal said India had “seen the reported remarks and rejects them with the contempt they deserve,” adding that Pakistan, given its record of bigotry, repression and systemic mistreatment of minorities, lacked the moral authority to lecture others. He said Pakistan should focus on its own “abysmal human rights record” instead of making hypocritical statements.

The MEA was responding to remarks by Pakistani Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, who urged the international community to take note of what he claimed were incidents “targeting religious minorities” in India.

MEA slams Islamabad's claims on Indian minorities, says Pakistan’s abysmal record speaks for itself

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Ukraine of attempting to strike President Vladimir Putin’s state residence in the Novgorod region on December 28-29. Lavrov claimed that 91 long-range drones were launched at the site, describing the act as “reckless” and labeling it as "state terrorism." He warned that this alleged attack would influence Russia’s approach to future negotiations, though it was unclear if Putin was present at the time.&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rejected the accusations, calling them “lies” and asserting that Russia was preparing to strike key Ukrainian government buildings, including in Kyiv. Lavrov indicated that Russian forces had already identified targets for potential retaliatory strikes and that the situation would alter Moscow's stance in ongoing peace talks, though Russia would still engage in dialogue.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/5th-century-indian-ship-insv-kaundinya-embarks-on-maiden-voyage-pm-modi-hails-navy-1767020246163">5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy</a><h2>See what Zelensky said in a post on X</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump&#39;s team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged &quot;residence strike&quot; story is a complete fabrication intended to justify…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2005667779894993080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Zelensky highlighted that the claim was made just one day after his nearly three-hour meeting with US President Donald Trump in Florida. Although the discussions did not result in any significant breakthroughs, Zelensky mentioned that both leaders agreed on a new version of the peace plan. This plan includes the US guaranteeing Ukraine’s security for 15 years, with an option for an extension, as he shared earlier on Monday (December 29).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-accuses-cambodia-of-violating-ceasefire-with-drone-activity-along-border-1767020184223">Thailand accuses Cambodia of violating ceasefire with drone activity along border</a>&nbsp;Zelensky posted on X, criticising Russia’s actions, saying, “Russia is once again trying to undermine the progress of our diplomatic efforts with President Trump’s team. We continue to work together to bring peace closer.” At the same time, the White House announced that Trump had a “positive call” with Vladimir Putin about Ukraine on Monday (December 29) morning, though they did not offer further details of the conversation.

Russian FM Lavrov accused Ukraine of launching a drone strike on Putin’s residence, escalating tensions. Zelensky has denied the claims, calling them lies

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Ukraine of attempting to strike President Vladimir Putin’s state residence in the Novgorod region on December 28-29. Lavrov claimed that 91 long-range drones were launched at the site, describing the act as “reckless” and labeling it as "state terrorism." He warned that this alleged attack would influence Russia’s approach to future negotiations, though it was unclear if Putin was present at the time. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rejected the accusations, calling them “lies” and asserting that Russia was preparing to strike key Ukrainian government buildings, including in Kyiv. Lavrov indicated that Russian forces had already identified targets for potential retaliatory strikes and that the situation would alter Moscow's stance in ongoing peace talks, though Russia would still engage in dialogue. Also Read: 5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy See what Zelensky said in a post on X

Russian FM Lavrov accused Ukraine of launching a drone strike on Putin’s residence, escalating tensions. Zelensky has denied the claims, calling them lies

Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting president Vladimir Putin’s home; Zelensky labels it as 'lies'

Indian Navy boasts its state-of-the-art aircraft carriers, submarines, warships, but its newest addition, a 5th-century vessel, takes pride in not employing any modern technology as Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Kaundinya, the Navy’s indigenously built traditional stitched sailing vessel, on Monday (Dec 29) embarked on its maiden voyage from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Muscat in Oman. The ship set sail for the Indian Ocean with the Naval band playing “Jai Ho” from Slumdog Millionaire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people behind the project, saying that the ship highlights "India's rich maritime traditions." "Wonderful to see that INSV Kaundinya is embarking on her maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat, Oman. Built using the ancient Indian stitched-ship technique, this ship highlights India's rich maritime traditions. &nbsp;I congratulate the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their dedicated efforts in bringing this unique vessel to life. My best wishes to the crew for a safe and memorable journey, as they retrace our historic links with the Gulf region and beyond," he wrote in a post on X.<h2>Why INSV Kaundinya is special&nbsp;</h2> INSV Kaundinya is a stitched sail ship modelled on a 5th-century CE vessel depicted in the Ajanta Caves paintings. The project began in July 2023 under a tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations, with funding from the Ministry of Culture.&nbsp;Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, who is believed to have sailed from India to Southeast Asia in ancient times, the ship reflects India’s historic maritime heritage.&nbsp;Its sails feature motifs of the Gandabherunda and the Sun, the bow is adorned with a sculpted Simha Yali, and a symbolic Harappan-style stone anchor sits on the deck, each element celebrating India’s rich seafaring traditions.<h2>Facilities on board</h2> The journey to Oman on board an ancient ship is not going to be an easy one, as the Ship's builders refused to utilise modern technologies and built it solely on traditional shipbuilding methods.&nbsp;Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, who pioneered the idea of rebuilding a stitched ancient ship, gave a glimpse of life on INSV Kaundinya "Modern amenities are minimal except for safety and communications. This is how it looks under the deck. As you can see, there are no cabins and just a dark hold for storing supplies. Mostly, we sleep on the open deck with sleeping bags," he wrote on X, sharing photos of the amenities onboard.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">So what is life like aboard <a href="https://twitter.com/INSVKaundinya?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INSVKaundinya</a> ? Modern amenities are minimal except for safety and communications. This is how is looks under the deck. As you can see, there are no cabins and just a dark hold for storing supplies. Mostly we sleep on the open deck with sleeping bags,… <a href="https://t.co/XHz5n2zbmV">pic.twitter.com/XHz5n2zbmV</a>&mdash; Sanjeev Sanyal (@sanjeevsanyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjeevsanyal/status/2005253194226803044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-escalating-tensions-fm-lavrov-reaffirms-russia-s-support-for-beijing-says-taiwan-is-integral-part-of-china-teipai-beijing-1767014726618">Amid escalating tensions, FM Lavrov reaffirms Russia’s support for Beijing, says Taiwan is integral part of China</a>&nbsp;Regarding food for crew members, Sanyal, who himself is part of the crew, said, "We are carrying some fresh vegetables that should last the first 5-6 days. Thereafter, it is dry rations and any fish we catch. Fresh water is rationed to 4.5 litres a day per person, including drinking, a share of cooking water, and washing".&nbsp;<h2>Significance of the Voyage</h2> For India, the voyage also serves as a soft-power initiative, highlighting its role in ancient East-West trade and challenging the perception that China’s “Silk Road” caravans were dominant.&nbsp;It challenges the popular perceptions that Indians were not great seafarers or that ancient India remained inward-looking, never undertaking great voyages apart from a few well-known endeavours during the Chola period around 1000 CE.

The maiden voyage of INSV Kaundinya aims to showcase India’s rich maritime heritage, ancient shipbuilding techniques, and highlight ancient Indians as skilled seafarers.

Indian Navy boasts its state-of-the-art aircraft carriers, submarines, warships, but its newest addition, a 5th-century vessel, takes pride in not employing any modern technology as Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Kaundinya, the Navy’s indigenously built traditional stitched sailing vessel, on Monday (Dec 29) embarked on its maiden voyage from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Muscat in Oman. The ship set sail for the Indian Ocean with the Naval band playing “Jai Ho” from Slumdog Millionaire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people behind the project, saying that the ship highlights "India's rich maritime traditions." "Wonderful to see that INSV Kaundinya is embarking on her maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat, Oman. Built using the ancient Indian stitched-ship technique, this ship highlights India's rich maritime traditions. I congratulate the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their dedicated efforts in bringing this unique vessel to life. My best wishes to the crew for a safe and memorable journey, as they retrace our historic links with the Gulf region and beyond," he wrote in a post on X. Why INSV Kaundinya is special INSV Kaundinya is a stitched sail ship modelled on a 5th-century CE vessel depicted in the Ajanta Caves paintings. The project began in July 2023 under a tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations, with funding from the Ministry of Culture. Named after the legendary mariner Kaundinya, who is believed to have sailed from India to Southeast Asia in ancient times, the ship reflects India’s historic maritime heritage. Its sails feature motifs of the Gandabherunda and the Sun, the bow is adorned with a sculpted Simha Yali, and a symbolic Harappan-style stone anchor sits on the deck, each element celebrating India’s rich seafaring traditions. Facilities on board The journey to Oman on board an ancient ship is not going to be an easy one, as the Ship's builders refused to utilise modern technologies and built it solely on traditional shipbuilding methods. Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, who pioneered the idea of rebuilding a stitched ancient ship, gave a glimpse of life on INSV Kaundinya "Modern amenities are minimal except for safety and communications. This is how it looks under the deck. As you can see, there are no cabins and just a dark hold for storing supplies. Mostly, we sleep on the open deck with sleeping bags," he wrote on X, sharing photos of the amenities onboard.

The maiden voyage of INSV Kaundinya aims to showcase India’s rich maritime heritage, ancient shipbuilding techniques, and highlight ancient Indians as skilled seafarers.

5th-century Indian ship INSV Kaundinya embarks on maiden voyage; PM Modi hails Navy

Thailand's military has accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement, following weeks of deadly border clashes that displaced nearly one million people. The Royal Thai Army claims that over 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying across the border from Cambodia late Sunday (December 28) night, just days after the ceasefire was put into effect.&nbsp;The ceasefire, which began on Saturday (December 27) at noon local time (05:00 GMT), was hailed as a significant breakthrough after intense negotiations between the two countries, with diplomatic backing from China and the United States. Both sides agreed to halt military reinforcements, freeze the current positions along the border, and allow civilians to safely return to their homes.&nbsp;However, Thailand's military statement on Monday described Cambodia’s actions as "provocation" and a breach of the agreed-upon measures to reduce tensions. The army emphasised that such activities were inconsistent with the terms of the ceasefire. Furthermore, it warned that Thailand might reconsider the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand since July, depending on the continuation of these violations. Cambodia, on the other hand, downplayed the incident. Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn called the drone sightings a "small issue" and suggested both sides had witnessed similar activities along the border.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-houston-we-have-a-problem-did-the-lady-bird-lake-killer-move-to-houston-social-media-thinks-so-1767017832819">'HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!' Did the ‘lady bird lake killer’ move to Houston? Social media thinks so</a>&nbsp;The situation escalates just hours after both China and the United States praised the ceasefire. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi called it a "hard-won" peace agreement, while US President Donald Trump also praised the quick resolution. The dispute between the two countries has historical roots, stretching back more than a century. This recent flare-up began earlier in the year when Cambodian women sang patriotic songs at a disputed temple.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tensions further intensified when a Cambodian soldier was killed during clashes in May, leading to five days of heavy fighting that resulted in numerous deaths and thousands of displaced civilians. A fragile ceasefire had been agreed upon in July and formalised in October, but it collapsed earlier this month when fresh skirmishes broke out. Both countries blamed each other for the ceasefire’s failure.

Thailand accuses Cambodia of violating ceasefire with drone activity along border

Thailand's military has accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement, following weeks of deadly border clashes that displaced nearly one million people. The Royal Thai Army claims that over 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying across the border from Cambodia late Sunday (December 28) night, just days after the ceasefire was put into effect. The ceasefire, which began on Saturday (December 27) at noon local time (05:00 GMT), was hailed as a significant breakthrough after intense negotiations between the two countries, with diplomatic backing from China and the United States. Both sides agreed to halt military reinforcements, freeze the current positions along the border, and allow civilians to safely return to their homes. However, Thailand's military statement on Monday described Cambodia’s actions as "provocation" and a breach of the agreed-upon measures to reduce tensions. The army emphasised that such activities were inconsistent with the terms of the ceasefire. Furthermore, it warned that Thailand might reconsider the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand since July, depending on the continuation of these violations. Cambodia, on the other hand, downplayed the incident. Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn called the drone sightings a "small issue" and suggested both sides had witnessed similar activities along the border. Also Read: 'HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!' Did the ‘lady bird lake killer’ move to Houston? Social media thinks so The situation escalates just hours after both China and the United States praised the ceasefire. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi called it a "hard-won" peace agreement, while US President Donald Trump also praised the quick resolution. The dispute between the two countries has historical roots, stretching back more than a century. This recent flare-up began earlier in the year when Cambodian women sang patriotic songs at a disputed temple. Tensions further intensified when a Cambodian soldier was killed during clashes in May, leading to five days of heavy fighting that resulted in numerous deaths and thousands of displaced civilians. A fragile ceasefire had been agreed upon in July and formalised in October, but it collapsed earlier this month when fresh skirmishes broke out. Both countries blamed each other for the ceasefire’s failure.

Thailand’s Army accuses Cambodia of violating a ceasefire by deploying drones along the border, threatening the fragile peace after weeks of deadly clashes

Recent rumours of a serial killer being active in Austin, Texas, have gained traction after multiple bodies were found in Houston’s Buffalo Bayou. These claims echo earlier rumours linked to Austin’s Lady Bird Lake, where numerous bodies were discovered between 2022 and 2025. The rumors intensified after a post by Freedom Shae circulated on X (formerly Twitter). The post said the alarming number of bodies found in Buffalo Bayou, including three in a single week. It raised suspicions, asking if the so-called "Lady Bird Lake killer" might have moved to Houston. "On Christmas Eve, another body was found in Buffalo Bayou, bringing the total to 12 this year and 34 in total across the Houston Bayous," the post said. “Has the Austin killer shifted locations?”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dinosaur-era-bird-found-with-800-stones-jammed-in-its-throat-1767012949400">Dinosaur-era bird found with 800 stones jammed in its throat: It ate them all. Why?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!” On Christmas Eve, another body was found in Buffalo Bayou, the third just this week. This is 12th in Buffalo Bayou for the year, and 34 bodies totally have been found in the bayous in the Houston Area. These numbers are staggering and has… <a href="https://t.co/ybfULgNKeC">pic.twitter.com/ybfULgNKeC</a>&mdash; Freedom __𝓢𝓱𝓪𝓮__ (@1fr33dom) <a href="https://twitter.com/1fr33dom/status/2005099807388430638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In recent years, Austin has seen numerous bodies pulled from Lady Bird Lake, with at least 19 recoveries over a span of three years. This spurred a chilling nickname for the presumed killer: the “Rainey Street Ripper.” The rumours resurfaced again on June 3, when a 17-year-old boy’s body was found in the lake. While some social media posts suggested that 38 bodies had been discovered, the Austin Police clarified that the actual number includes deaths occurring in the general area, not all of them related to the lake itself.&nbsp;Despite these claims, local authorities have firmly said there’s no evidence of a serial killer operating in the region. While some of the deaths remain unexplained, only one case has been confirmed as a homicide. The tragic death of the teenager in June was attributed to an accidental drowning while kayaking with his family, according to police reports.Authorities continue to dismiss any link between the deaths and the serial killer theories, and the bodies found in the lake have been mostly linked to water-related accidents or other causes.

'HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!' Did the ‘lady bird lake killer’ move to Houston? Social media thinks so

Recent rumours of a serial killer being active in Austin, Texas, have gained traction after multiple bodies were found in Houston’s Buffalo Bayou. These claims echo earlier rumours linked to Austin’s Lady Bird Lake, where numerous bodies were discovered between 2022 and 2025. The rumors intensified after a post by Freedom Shae circulated on X (formerly Twitter). The post said the alarming number of bodies found in Buffalo Bayou, including three in a single week. It raised suspicions, asking if the so-called "Lady Bird Lake killer" might have moved to Houston. "On Christmas Eve, another body was found in Buffalo Bayou, bringing the total to 12 this year and 34 in total across the Houston Bayous," the post said. “Has the Austin killer shifted locations?” Also Read: Dinosaur-era bird found with 800 stones jammed in its throat: It ate them all. Why?

Rumours about a serial killer linked to Austin's Lady Bird Lake resurface as bodies are found in Houston's Buffalo Bayou. Authorities dismiss the claims, citing no evidence

In a conversation that has since become something of a cult anecdote, SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk confirmed that a scene from the 2012 film The Dictator played a role in shaping the design of the Starship spacecraft’s nose. The revelation, which dates back to a 2021 podcast appearance, resurfaced in late 2023 when Musk responded to a social-media claim with a simple '100' emoji, a gesture widely interpreted as emphatic agreement. The Dictator, a satire starring Sacha Baron Cohen as Admiral General Aladeen of the fictional Republic of Wadiya, features a moment in which the leader insists that a missile be made 'more pointy', saying, 'Round is not scary. Pointy is scary.' Musk admitted that he had told his engineers to make Starship’s head more pointy for much the same reason. The clip of the podcast has again resurfaced reigniting widespread reaction from social media users, across the platforms.<h2>SpaceX’s Starship and its pointy top</h2> Starship is a 171 foot tall, fully reusable &nbsp;transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the moon, Mars and beyond. It has a payload capacity of 100-150 metric tons. The craft’s sharp nose, though not aerodynamically superior, Musk himself has joked that the change was 'arguably slightly worse' for performance. The pointed design has since become one of the rocket’s defining visual features. It is the most powerful launch system ever developed and has the ability to vary up to 100 people on long-duration, interplanetary flights, according to the SpaceX website.&nbsp;<h2>Old insight, enduring interest</h2> The anecdote first emerged publicly when Musk appeared on comedian Joe Rogan’s long-form podcast in February 2021, where he elaborated on the influence of the satirical movie on his thinking.&nbsp;"You literally told them to make the Starship more pointy because of the movie 'The Dictator?'" Mr Rogan asked in the podcast. "Yep. And they know it, too. It's not like they're unaware of it. I thought it would be funny to make it more pointy, so we did," the billionaire replied. He stated that it does not give Starship &nbsp;an aerodynamic edge and it is "arguably slightly worse," but “it looks cooler.” In The Dictator, Aladeen’s critique of his engineers’ blunt-headed missile led him to demand a pointier shape, a line Musk openly referenced when explaining why Starship’s head was altered from an earlier, blunter concept.&nbsp;

The Dictator, a satire starring Sacha Baron Cohen as Admiral General Aladeen of the fictional Republic of Wadiya, features a moment in which the leader insists that a missile be made 'more pointy', saying, 'Round is not scary. Pointy is scary.' 

In a conversation that has since become something of a cult anecdote, SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk confirmed that a scene from the 2012 film The Dictator played a role in shaping the design of the Starship spacecraft’s nose. The revelation, which dates back to a 2021 podcast appearance, resurfaced in late 2023 when Musk responded to a social-media claim with a simple '100' emoji, a gesture widely interpreted as emphatic agreement. The Dictator, a satire starring Sacha Baron Cohen as Admiral General Aladeen of the fictional Republic of Wadiya, features a moment in which the leader insists that a missile be made 'more pointy', saying, 'Round is not scary. Pointy is scary.' Musk admitted that he had told his engineers to make Starship’s head more pointy for much the same reason. The clip of the podcast has again resurfaced reigniting widespread reaction from social media users, across the platforms. SpaceX’s Starship and its pointy top Starship is a 171 foot tall, fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the moon, Mars and beyond. It has a payload capacity of 100-150 metric tons. The craft’s sharp nose, though not aerodynamically superior, Musk himself has joked that the change was 'arguably slightly worse' for performance. The pointed design has since become one of the rocket’s defining visual features. It is the most powerful launch system ever developed and has the ability to vary up to 100 people on long-duration, interplanetary flights, according to the SpaceX website. Old insight, enduring interest The anecdote first emerged publicly when Musk appeared on comedian Joe Rogan’s long-form podcast in February 2021, where he elaborated on the influence of the satirical movie on his thinking. "You literally told them to make the Starship more pointy because of the movie 'The Dictator?'" Mr Rogan asked in the podcast. "Yep. And they know it, too. It's not like they're unaware of it. I thought it would be funny to make it more pointy, so we did," the billionaire replied. He stated that it does not give Starship an aerodynamic edge and it is "arguably slightly worse," but “it looks cooler.” In The Dictator, Aladeen’s critique of his engineers’ blunt-headed missile led him to demand a pointier shape, a line Musk openly referenced when explaining why Starship’s head was altered from an earlier, blunter concept.

The Dictator, a satire starring Sacha Baron Cohen as Admiral General Aladeen of the fictional Republic of Wadiya, features a moment in which the leader insists that a missile be made 'more pointy', saying, ‘Round is not scary. Pointy is scary.’

'Make It Pointy': When Elon Musk admitted drawing starship design inspiration from 'The Dictator'

As China intensified military pressure on Taiwan by launching large-scale live fire drills around the island, the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed its stand on the issue and reiterated that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and said Moscow firmly opposes any form of independence for Taiwan. Describing Russia's standing on the issue, Lavrov emphasised that "the Taiwan problem is an internal affair of China and Beijing has every right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said in an Interview with TASS as quoted by ANI.&nbsp;He stressed that debates around Taiwan are often conducted "in isolation from reality and by manipulating facts," adding that the wider context is frequently overlooked in international discussions.&nbsp;Lavrov pointed out that several countries, despite publicly committing to the One-China policy, keep supporting the status quo, adding that such an approach highlights "their disagreement with the principle of China's national reunification."&nbsp;Taiwan is increasingly being used as an instrument of military strategic deterrence against Beijing, and some Western nations, particularly the United States, seek benefits from Taipei's financial resources, including the costly weapon sales.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-on-brink-conflict-deaths-rise-73-in-2025-report-says-1767005670051">Pakistan on brink: Conflict and terror-related deaths rise 73% in 2025, report says</a>&nbsp;Reiterating the Kremlin's long-standing position, Lavrov underlined that Russia's support for China on the Taiwan issue is written into the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation signed between Moscow and Beijing in July 2001.&nbsp;China's aggressive military posturing against Taipei comes just 11 days after the United States approved $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, the largest weapons package ever approved for the island.<h2>Chinese drills cause flight delays in Taiwan</h2>Taiwan has warned that more than 100,000 air passengers could face delays due to live-fire drills launched by China around the island on Monday. The Civil Aviation Administration said scheduled flights would be affected, including about 296 international departures, nearly 265 international arrivals and roughly 296 transit flights. The agency added that the disruptions are expected to snarl travel plans for over 100,000 passengers.

Russia's comments came amid the Chinese military’s live-fire drills around Taiwan, sharply escalating military pressure. Beijing adopted an aggressive posture just 11 days after the US approved an $11.1 billion arms sale.

As China intensified military pressure on Taiwan by launching large-scale live fire drills around the island, the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed its stand on the issue and reiterated that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and said Moscow firmly opposes any form of independence for Taiwan. Describing Russia's standing on the issue, Lavrov emphasised that "the Taiwan problem is an internal affair of China and Beijing has every right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said in an Interview with TASS as quoted by ANI. He stressed that debates around Taiwan are often conducted "in isolation from reality and by manipulating facts," adding that the wider context is frequently overlooked in international discussions. Lavrov pointed out that several countries, despite publicly committing to the One-China policy, keep supporting the status quo, adding that such an approach highlights "their disagreement with the principle of China's national reunification." Taiwan is increasingly being used as an instrument of military strategic deterrence against Beijing, and some Western nations, particularly the United States, seek benefits from Taipei's financial resources, including the costly weapon sales. Also Read: Pakistan on brink: Conflict and terror-related deaths rise 73% in 2025, report says Reiterating the Kremlin's long-standing position, Lavrov underlined that Russia's support for China on the Taiwan issue is written into the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation signed between Moscow and Beijing in July 2001. China's aggressive military posturing against Taipei comes just 11 days after the United States approved $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, the largest weapons package ever approved for the island. Chinese drills cause flight delays in Taiwan Taiwan has warned that more than 100,000 air passengers could face delays due to live-fire drills launched by China around the island on Monday. The Civil Aviation Administration said scheduled flights would be affected, including about 296 international departures, nearly 265 international arrivals and roughly 296 transit flights. The agency added that the disruptions are expected to snarl travel plans for over 100,000 passengers.

Russia's comments came amid the Chinese military’s live-fire drills around Taiwan, sharply escalating military pressure on the island nation. Beijing adopted an aggressive posture just 11 days after the US approved an $11.1 billion arms sale.

Amid escalating tensions, FM Lavrov reaffirms Russia’s support for Beijing, says Taiwan is integral part of China

Two women from the Mahabubabad district of Telangana lost their lives after their car plunged into a gorge at a curve on the Alabama Hills Road in California, US. The victims were identified as Pullakhandu Meghana, 24 and Kadiyala Bhavana, 24, both hailing from Garla mandal in Mahabubabad district were on a trip in California with eight friends, and they were travelling in two cars&nbsp;According to a report by Telangana Today, Meghana and Bhavana were in the United States for higher education. They had recently completed their Master’s degrees and were seeking jobs. The report revealed that the car in which they were travelling reportedly plunged into a gorge at a curve on the Alabama Hills Road, resulting in their deaths.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the families of the deceased women are demanding swift measures to bring their bodies back to India, and American police have initiated an investigation into the incident. The report revealed that Meghana’s father, Nageshwara Rao, runs a Mee-Seva centre in Garla, while Bhavana’s father is acting as the deputy sarpanch of Mulkanoor village.

The families of the deceased women are demanding swift measures to bring their bodies back to India, and American police have initiated an investigation into the incident. 

Two women from the Mahabubabad district of Telangana lost their lives after their car plunged into a gorge at a curve on the Alabama Hills Road in California, US. The victims were identified as Pullakhandu Meghana, 24 and Kadiyala Bhavana, 24, both hailing from Garla mandal in Mahabubabad district were on a trip in California with eight friends, and they were travelling in two cars According to a report by Telangana Today, Meghana and Bhavana were in the United States for higher education. They had recently completed their Master’s degrees and were seeking jobs. The report revealed that the car in which they were travelling reportedly plunged into a gorge at a curve on the Alabama Hills Road, resulting in their deaths. Meanwhile, the families of the deceased women are demanding swift measures to bring their bodies back to India, and American police have initiated an investigation into the incident. The report revealed that Meghana’s father, Nageshwara Rao, runs a Mee-Seva centre in Garla, while Bhavana’s father is acting as the deputy sarpanch of Mulkanoor village.

The families of the deceased women are demanding swift measures to bring their bodies back to India, and American police have initiated an investigation into the incident.&nbsp;

Two Telangana women die as car plunges into gorge in California

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