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US President Donald Trump said Thursday he was signing an executive order reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug, in one of America's biggest shifts in drug policy for years.The move stops short of full federal legalisation for recreational use across the United States but is aimed at encouraging medical research on the use of cannabis products."Today, I'm pleased to announce that I will be signing an executive order to reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance with legitimate medical uses," Trump said in the Oval Office.Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance -- in the same league as drugs like heroin and LSD. The US government considers these drugs to have high abuse potential without accepted use for medical treatment.Schedule III substances, which include ketamine and anabolic steroids, are considered to have medical value and less potential for abuse.Trump, who was surrounded by white-coated medical experts for the announcement, added that the order "is not the legalization" of marijuana "and no way sanctions its use as a recreational drug."The teetotal 79-year-old added: "I've always told my children, don't take drugs, no drinking, no smoking, and just stay away from drugs."Dozens of US states already have legal medical marijuana programs, and many also have approved its recreational use."A lot of people want to see it, the reclassification, because it leads to tremendous amounts of research that can't be done unless you reclassify, so we are looking at that very strongly," Trump said earlier this week.Easing federal restrictions could have ripple effects, including lowering barriers to pursue research, as authorizing clinical studies on Schedule I substances can require many layers of approval.It could also have major tax implications for companies that legally grow and sell cannabis.US presidents cannot unilaterally reclassify a drug, but Republican Trump's order directs Attorney General Pam Bondi to expedite the process.Democrat Joe Biden's administration had previously pursued reclassification, but efforts stalled and were not completed before Trump took office in early 2025.The US has a patchwork of state-level regulations regarding the commercial distribution, recreational possession, and personal cultivation of cannabis.In small amounts, it is already legal for recreational use in 24 states, as well as the capital, Washington.

Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance -- in the same league as drugs like heroin and LSD. The US government considers these drugs to have high abuse potential without accepted use for medical treatment.

US President Donald Trump said Thursday he was signing an executive order reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug, in one of America's biggest shifts in drug policy for years. The move stops short of full federal legalisation for recreational use across the United States but is aimed at encouraging medical research on the use of cannabis products. "Today, I'm pleased to announce that I will be signing an executive order to reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance with legitimate medical uses," Trump said in the Oval Office. Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance -- in the same league as drugs like heroin and LSD. The US government considers these drugs to have high abuse potential without accepted use for medical treatment. Schedule III substances, which include ketamine and anabolic steroids, are considered to have medical value and less potential for abuse. Trump, who was surrounded by white-coated medical experts for the announcement, added that the order "is not the legalization" of marijuana "and no way sanctions its use as a recreational drug." The teetotal 79-year-old added: "I've always told my children, don't take drugs, no drinking, no smoking, and just stay away from drugs." Dozens of US states already have legal medical marijuana programs, and many also have approved its recreational use. "A lot of people want to see it, the reclassification, because it leads to tremendous amounts of research that can't be done unless you reclassify, so we are looking at that very strongly," Trump said earlier this week. Easing federal restrictions could have ripple effects, including lowering barriers to pursue research, as authorizing clinical studies on Schedule I substances can require many layers of approval. It could also have major tax implications for companies that legally grow and sell cannabis. US presidents cannot unilaterally reclassify a drug, but Republican Trump's order directs Attorney General Pam Bondi to expedite the process. Democrat Joe Biden's administration had previously pursued reclassification, but efforts stalled and were not completed before Trump took office in early 2025. The US has a patchwork of state-level regulations regarding the commercial distribution, recreational possession, and personal cultivation of cannabis. In small amounts, it is already legal for recreational use in 24 states, as well as the capital, Washington.

Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance -- in the same league as drugs like heroin and LSD. The US government considers these drugs to have high abuse potential without accepted use for medical treatment.

Trump signs executive order to reclassify marijuana as less dangerous

A youth Bangladesh leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, has died in Singapore after succumbing to his injuries from an assassination attempt, officials confirmed on Thursday (Dec 18). Hadi was the spokesperson political platform Inqilab Mancho. He was critically injured after unidentified assailants shot him in Dhaka on December 12. He was rushed to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later shifted to the Evercare Hospital as his condition deteriorated.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-has-an-alcoholic-s-personality-us-president-s-chief-of-staff-susie-wiles-makes-big-claims-in-disingenuously-framed-interview-1765912672199">‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview</a>&nbsp;Last week, he was airlifted for better medical treatment and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his death and said in a statement, “Despite the best efforts of the doctors, Mr (Sharif Osman) Hadi succumbed to his injuries.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-who-won-nyc-mayor-polls-on-promise-to-make-city-affordable-set-to-move-into-100mn-mansion-with-wife-for-safety-1765296231524">Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’</a>&nbsp;The Singapore foreign ministry said it is assisting the Bangladesh High Commission in the country with arrangements to repatriate Hadi’s body to Bangladesh. Inqilab Mancho also announced Hadi’s death in a social media post, saying he passed away after fighting for his life for six days, as reported by the Bangladesh news channel Daily Star.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-someone-said-excuse-me-and-viral-photo-shows-lifeguard-running-barefoot-to-save-people-after-bondi-beach-attack-1765886991953">‘Someone said ‘excuse me’ and...’: Viral photo shows lifeguard running barefoot to save people after Bondi Beach attack</a>&nbsp;After the assassination attempt, Bangladesh’s chief adviser Muhammad Yunus condemned the attack, calling election-related violence “completely unacceptable.”“No form of violence intended to disrupt the election will be tolerated. The incident is a worrying development for the country’s political landscape,” Yunus had said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pakistan-pm-crashes-putin-erdogan-meeting-after-waiting-for-russian-prez-for-40-minutes-this-is-what-happened-next-1765555322420">WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next</a>

Last week, he was airlifted for better medical treatment and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. 

A youth Bangladesh leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, has died in Singapore after succumbing to his injuries from an assassination attempt, officials confirmed on Thursday (Dec 18). Hadi was the spokesperson political platform Inqilab Mancho. He was critically injured after unidentified assailants shot him in Dhaka on December 12. He was rushed to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later shifted to the Evercare Hospital as his condition deteriorated. Also read: ‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview Last week, he was airlifted for better medical treatment and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his death and said in a statement, “Despite the best efforts of the doctors, Mr (Sharif Osman) Hadi succumbed to his injuries.” Also read: Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’ The Singapore foreign ministry said it is assisting the Bangladesh High Commission in the country with arrangements to repatriate Hadi’s body to Bangladesh. Inqilab Mancho also announced Hadi’s death in a social media post, saying he passed away after fighting for his life for six days, as reported by the Bangladesh news channel Daily Star. Also read: ‘Someone said ‘excuse me’ and...’: Viral photo shows lifeguard running barefoot to save people after Bondi Beach attack After the assassination attempt, Bangladesh’s chief adviser Muhammad Yunus condemned the attack, calling election-related violence “completely unacceptable.” “No form of violence intended to disrupt the election will be tolerated. The incident is a worrying development for the country’s political landscape,” Yunus had said. Also read: WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next

Last week, he was airlifted for better medical treatment and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit.&nbsp;

Bangladesh youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi succumbed to injuries after assassination attempt

Months after the worldwide kiss cam drama, former HR head at tech firm Astronomer, Kristin Cabot, has reacted to the scandal. Cabot described the episode as a “bad decision” made after drinking and said it has left her a meme, “unemployable,” and effectively ended her career. She was seen in a viral video from a Coldplay concert with her then-boss, CEO Andy Byron, in a questionable gesture.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-has-an-alcoholic-s-personality-us-president-s-chief-of-staff-susie-wiles-makes-big-claims-in-disingenuously-framed-interview-1765912672199">‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview</a>&nbsp;In a New York Post interview published on Thursday (Dec 19), 53-year-old Cabot said the 16-second kiss cam moment changed her life overnight. “I made a bad decision and had a couple of High Noons and danced and acted inappropriately with my boss,” she quipped. She added that Byron was her “big happy crush” at the time and acknowledged paying a heavy professional price for her actions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-who-won-nyc-mayor-polls-on-promise-to-make-city-affordable-set-to-move-into-100mn-mansion-with-wife-for-safety-1765296231524">Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’</a>&nbsp;“I’m not some celebrity, I’m just a mom from New Hampshire,” she said, arguing that she did not deserve the hate she got. She said even if she did have an affair, it should not have become a public business. She said people erased her professional achievements and labelled her “the most maligned HR manager in HR history.”&nbsp;She also revealed that she and her boss were both separated from their spouses at the time of the incident. She said she was hired just a few months ago and had developed feelings for Byron after learning he was also in the process of divorcing his wife.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pakistan-pm-crashes-putin-erdogan-meeting-after-waiting-for-russian-prez-for-40-minutes-this-is-what-happened-next-1765555322420">WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next</a>

She said she was hired just a few months ago and had developed feelings for Byron after learning he was also in the process of divorcing his wife.

Months after the worldwide kiss cam drama, former HR head at tech firm Astronomer, Kristin Cabot, has reacted to the scandal. Cabot described the episode as a “bad decision” made after drinking and said it has left her a meme, “unemployable,” and effectively ended her career. She was seen in a viral video from a Coldplay concert with her then-boss, CEO Andy Byron, in a questionable gesture. Also read: ‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview In a New York Post interview published on Thursday (Dec 19), 53-year-old Cabot said the 16-second kiss cam moment changed her life overnight. “I made a bad decision and had a couple of High Noons and danced and acted inappropriately with my boss,” she quipped. She added that Byron was her “big happy crush” at the time and acknowledged paying a heavy professional price for her actions. Also read: Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’ “I’m not some celebrity, I’m just a mom from New Hampshire,” she said, arguing that she did not deserve the hate she got. She said even if she did have an affair, it should not have become a public business. She said people erased her professional achievements and labelled her “the most maligned HR manager in HR history.” She also revealed that she and her boss were both separated from their spouses at the time of the incident. She said she was hired just a few months ago and had developed feelings for Byron after learning he was also in the process of divorcing his wife. Also read: WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next

She said she was hired just a few months ago and had developed feelings for Byron after learning he was also in the process of divorcing his wife.

‘Even if I did have an affair...’: Astronomer’s ex-HR head breaks silence on Coldplay kiss cam scandal

The Islamic State has praised the Bondi Beach mass shooting in Australia and called it a ‘source of pride’, without explicitly claiming responsibility for the attack, in the latest issue of the group’s al Naba newsletter published on Thursday. In an article titled “The pride of Sydney,” the newsletter mentions the attack in what it describes as the “lands of the infidels”. The newsletter stated, “No operation of the Islamic State in the land of the infidels has been freed from doubt and hatred, whether the Islamic State officially embraced it or tacitly praised it or deliberately kept silent about it and left the enemy bewildered and hesitant.”&nbsp;The statement suggests that ISIS views attacks in foreign countries as significant, regardless of whether the group publicly claims them or not.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-deports-56-000-pakistani-beggars-pak-authorities-offload-66-000-flying-to-beg-abroad-1766076513491">Saudi Arabia deports 56,000 Pakistani beggars, Pak authorities offload 66,000 flying to beg abroad</a><h2>‘Attackers may act with or without guidance from..’</h2>&nbsp;It added that attackers may act with or without guidance from the group, “Whether the attackers received its guidance and support or were the result of its incitement and policies … all your heroics, O strangers, will not be surprised by the bloodshed and bloodshed.”&nbsp;ISIS interprets both guided and independent attacks as part of its ideological campaign.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-biggest-strategic-challenge-since-1971-house-committee-on-india-bangladesh-ties-1766069493182">‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties</a>&nbsp;The newsletter also mentioned an ongoing confrontation with international intelligence services. “An invisible raging between the generals of the caliphate and the international intelligence services, willingly or unwillingly subjugated to protect the Jews, and in this war, a number of fathers of its best soldiers were killed, and God knows not.”&nbsp;It also included a call to action for refugees in Belgium.“As for you to register your names in the lists of immigrants and leave the pastures of asylum, then obey the divine orders to fight the Jews and the Christians while in every street between your backs, your breath mingles with their breath, and you see your fire and their fire and your synagogues and churches are obstructed.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-conferred-oman-s-top-national-honour-delhi-muscat-sign-free-trade-agreement-1766054772351">PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement</a><h2>Two vehicles intercepted in Sydney, seven men detained</h2>&nbsp;In another incident on Thursday in Australia, two vehicles were intercepted in southern Sydney in connection with a planned violent act, with New South Wales Police noting that no connection to the Bondi Beach massacre was identified till the time of the statement.Seven men were detained by police in Liverpool, acting on a tip about a violent act being planned.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-govt-admits-laxity-in-helicopter-plane-collision-that-killed-67-in-washington-1766059461973">US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington</a><h2>Israel probes possible Iran role in Bondi Beach shooting</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israeli authorities are investigating whether state actors, chiefly Iran, were involved in the mass shooting attack against Sydney’s Jewish community at Bondi Beach on Sunday.A senior US official told Fox News that if the Islamic Republic ordered the attack, then the US would fully recognise Israel’s right to strike Iran in response.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-are-doctor-death-french-anaesthetist-who-poisoned-12-patients-to-death-jailed-for-life-1766051562239">‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life</a>&nbsp;Officials were also probing links to Hezbollah, Hamas, and Pakistani-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is connected to al-Qaeda.

In another incident on Thursday in Australia, two vehicles were intercepted in southern Sydney in connection with a planned violent act, with New South Wales Police noting that no connection to the Bondi Beach massacre was identified.

The Islamic State has praised the Bondi Beach mass shooting in Australia and called it a ‘source of pride’, without explicitly claiming responsibility for the attack, in the latest issue of the group’s al Naba newsletter published on Thursday. In an article titled “The pride of Sydney,” the newsletter mentions the attack in what it describes as the “lands of the infidels”. The newsletter stated, “No operation of the Islamic State in the land of the infidels has been freed from doubt and hatred, whether the Islamic State officially embraced it or tacitly praised it or deliberately kept silent about it and left the enemy bewildered and hesitant.” The statement suggests that ISIS views attacks in foreign countries as significant, regardless of whether the group publicly claims them or not. Also Read: Saudi Arabia deports 56,000 Pakistani beggars, Pak authorities offload 66,000 flying to beg abroad ‘Attackers may act with or without guidance from..’ It added that attackers may act with or without guidance from the group, “Whether the attackers received its guidance and support or were the result of its incitement and policies … all your heroics, O strangers, will not be surprised by the bloodshed and bloodshed.” ISIS interprets both guided and independent attacks as part of its ideological campaign. Also Read: ‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties The newsletter also mentioned an ongoing confrontation with international intelligence services. “An invisible raging between the generals of the caliphate and the international intelligence services, willingly or unwillingly subjugated to protect the Jews, and in this war, a number of fathers of its best soldiers were killed, and God knows not.” It also included a call to action for refugees in Belgium. “As for you to register your names in the lists of immigrants and leave the pastures of asylum, then obey the divine orders to fight the Jews and the Christians while in every street between your backs, your breath mingles with their breath, and you see your fire and their fire and your synagogues and churches are obstructed.” Also Read: PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement Two vehicles intercepted in Sydney, seven men detained In another incident on Thursday in Australia, two vehicles were intercepted in southern Sydney in connection with a planned violent act, with New South Wales Police noting that no connection to the Bondi Beach massacre was identified till the time of the statement. Seven men were detained by police in Liverpool, acting on a tip about a violent act being planned. Also Read: US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington Israel probes possible Iran role in Bondi Beach shooting Meanwhile, Israeli authorities are investigating whether state actors, chiefly Iran, were involved in the mass shooting attack against Sydney’s Jewish community at Bondi Beach on Sunday. A senior US official told Fox News that if the Islamic Republic ordered the attack, then the US would fully recognise Israel’s right to strike Iran in response. Also Read: ‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life Officials were also probing links to Hezbollah, Hamas, and Pakistani-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is connected to al-Qaeda.

In another incident on Thursday in Australia, two vehicles were intercepted in southern Sydney in connection with a planned violent act, with New South Wales Police noting that no connection to the Bondi Beach massacre was identified.

ISIS calls Bondi Beach mass shooting ‘source of pride,’ stops short of claiming responsibility

A 50-year-old man, Brian Walshe, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for murdering his wife, Ana Walshe, with whom he had three kids. The sentence came after the jury found Brian guilty of first-degree murder on Monday (Dec 15). The court found that he planned to kill Ana just hours after ringing in the new year in 2023. In sentencing Walshe to spend the rest of his life in prison, the judge said, “That sentence is immensely appropriate, and just given your murderous acts and the life trauma that you’ve inflicted upon your own children.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pakistan-pm-crashes-putin-erdogan-meeting-after-waiting-for-russian-prez-for-40-minutes-this-is-what-happened-next-1765555322420">WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next</a>&nbsp;“The seriousness of your acts cannot be overstated. Your acts in dismembering your wife’s body and disposing of her remains in multiple area dumpsters can only be described as barbaric and incomprehensible. You had no regard for the lifelong mental harm that your criminal acts inflicted on your then two-, four- and six-year-old sons," he added.&nbsp;What was the case?&nbsp;Three years ago, the case captured nationwide attention after the 39-year-old Ana Walshe went missing. The initial police search found that her husband had googled topics like “how to dispose of a body” and other inquiries on cleaning up blood. Prosecutors told the jury Ana met a violent death at her husband’s hand before he dismembered her body and disposed of her remains in area dumpsters.&nbsp;Throughout the investigation, Brian lied and claimed that she had gone missing the morning of January 1, 2023, after leaving their Massachusetts home to handle a work emergency in Washington, DC. Ana Walshe’s body has never been found.&nbsp;Digital data recovered from Walshe’s devices revealed he also googled divorce and William Fastow's days before his wife’s death.

The sentence came after the jury found Brian guilty of first-degree murder on Monday (Dec 15). The court found that he planned to kill Ana just hours after ringing in the new year in 2023.

A 50-year-old man, Brian Walshe, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for murdering his wife, Ana Walshe, with whom he had three kids. The sentence came after the jury found Brian guilty of first-degree murder on Monday (Dec 15). The court found that he planned to kill Ana just hours after ringing in the new year in 2023. In sentencing Walshe to spend the rest of his life in prison, the judge said, “That sentence is immensely appropriate, and just given your murderous acts and the life trauma that you’ve inflicted upon your own children.” Also read: WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next “The seriousness of your acts cannot be overstated. Your acts in dismembering your wife’s body and disposing of her remains in multiple area dumpsters can only be described as barbaric and incomprehensible. You had no regard for the lifelong mental harm that your criminal acts inflicted on your then two-, four- and six-year-old sons," he added. What was the case? Three years ago, the case captured nationwide attention after the 39-year-old Ana Walshe went missing. The initial police search found that her husband had googled topics like “how to dispose of a body” and other inquiries on cleaning up blood. Prosecutors told the jury Ana met a violent death at her husband’s hand before he dismembered her body and disposed of her remains in area dumpsters. Throughout the investigation, Brian lied and claimed that she had gone missing the morning of January 1, 2023, after leaving their Massachusetts home to handle a work emergency in Washington, DC. Ana Walshe’s body has never been found. Digital data recovered from Walshe’s devices revealed he also googled divorce and William Fastow's days before his wife’s death.

The sentence came after the jury found Brian guilty of first-degree murder on Monday (Dec 15). The court found that he planned to kill Ana just hours after ringing in the new year in 2023.

Brian Walshe gets life in prison for killing his wife. All about the ‘incomprehensible’ murder that shook America in 2023

Beggars from Pakistan have been defying no-fly lists, visa curbs, stern warnings from foreign governments, and even deportations and continue to fly to Gulf nations to beg. Saudi Arabia has deported as many as 56,000 beggars, while Pakistani authorities themselves offloaded more than 66,000 passengers in 2025 to curb begging gangs from going abroad. Thousands of Pakistanis continued travelling abroad or attempting to do so solely to beg. Saudi Arabia, which has two of Islam’s holiest places, deported around 56,000 Pakistanis for begging, while Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency offloaded 66,154 suspect passengers in 2025 to prevent them from going abroad after several complaints were made to the Pakistani government.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-biggest-strategic-challenge-since-1971-house-committee-on-india-bangladesh-ties-1766069493182">‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties</a>&nbsp;Last month, the UAE stopped issuing visas to most Pakistani citizens due to concerns about individuals arriving in the country and getting involved in criminal activities and begging.&nbsp;These numbers were released by a Pakistani parliamentary panel in the National Assembly after Islamabad placed thousands of its citizens on the Exit Control List (ECL), or no-fly list. Last year, Saudi Arabia had asked Pakistan to stop beggars from misusing Umrah visas to reach the holy cities of Mecca and Medina for begging.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-conferred-oman-s-top-national-honour-delhi-muscat-sign-free-trade-agreement-1766054772351">PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement</a>&nbsp;A report in Karachi-based The News International cited the head of Pakistan’s border control security agency, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Riffat Mukhtar, as saying, “56,000 Pakistanis involved in organised begging were recently deported from Saudi Arabia.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-govt-admits-laxity-in-helicopter-plane-collision-that-killed-67-in-washington-1766059461973">US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington</a>&nbsp;Mukhtar said that illegal migration and begging rings have severely damaged Pakistan’s image globally, as beggars from Pakistan have flooded cities in West Asia by misusing pilgrimage and tourist visas. That streets in Saudi Arabia are full of Pakistani beggars, as one social media user from Pakistan posted on X, “I just came back from Umrah, and I assure you that I'm ashamed of being a Pakistani. They are begging inside the Bin Dawood store, they are begging during Umrah, and they are begging on the streets.”&nbsp;Pakistani beggars are also found in the UAE, Kuwait, Azerbaijan, and Bahrain.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-are-doctor-death-french-anaesthetist-who-poisoned-12-patients-to-death-jailed-for-life-1766051562239">‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life</a>

Last month, the UAE stopped issuing visas to most Pakistani citizens due to concerns about individuals arriving in the country and getting involved in criminal activities and begging. Pakistani beggars are also found in the UAE, Kuwait, Azerbaijan, and Bahrain.

Beggars from Pakistan have been defying no-fly lists, visa curbs, stern warnings from foreign governments, and even deportations and continue to fly to Gulf nations to beg. Saudi Arabia has deported as many as 56,000 beggars, while Pakistani authorities themselves offloaded more than 66,000 passengers in 2025 to curb begging gangs from going abroad. Thousands of Pakistanis continued travelling abroad or attempting to do so solely to beg. Saudi Arabia, which has two of Islam’s holiest places, deported around 56,000 Pakistanis for begging, while Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency offloaded 66,154 suspect passengers in 2025 to prevent them from going abroad after several complaints were made to the Pakistani government. Also Read: ‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties Last month, the UAE stopped issuing visas to most Pakistani citizens due to concerns about individuals arriving in the country and getting involved in criminal activities and begging. These numbers were released by a Pakistani parliamentary panel in the National Assembly after Islamabad placed thousands of its citizens on the Exit Control List (ECL), or no-fly list. Last year, Saudi Arabia had asked Pakistan to stop beggars from misusing Umrah visas to reach the holy cities of Mecca and Medina for begging. Also Read: PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement A report in Karachi-based The News International cited the head of Pakistan’s border control security agency, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Riffat Mukhtar, as saying, “56,000 Pakistanis involved in organised begging were recently deported from Saudi Arabia.” Also Read: US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington Mukhtar said that illegal migration and begging rings have severely damaged Pakistan’s image globally, as beggars from Pakistan have flooded cities in West Asia by misusing pilgrimage and tourist visas. That streets in Saudi Arabia are full of Pakistani beggars, as one social media user from Pakistan posted on X, “I just came back from Umrah, and I assure you that I'm ashamed of being a Pakistani. They are begging inside the Bin Dawood store, they are begging during Umrah, and they are begging on the streets.” Pakistani beggars are also found in the UAE, Kuwait, Azerbaijan, and Bahrain. Also Read: ‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life

Last month, the UAE stopped issuing visas to most Pakistani citizens due to concerns about individuals arriving in the country and getting involved in criminal activities and begging. Pakistani beggars are also found in the UAE, Kuwait, Azerbaijan, and Bahrain.

Saudi Arabia deports 56,000 Pakistani beggars, Pak authorities offload 66,000 flying to beg abroad

Amid the investigation into the Brown University shooting, police have released a map showing the streets where the person of interest was on the day of the attack. The map, shared on X, showed streets marked in one particular colour to indicate where footage confirms the person walked hours before the shooting, police said. Streets marked in a different colour show locations where footage confirms the person was present immediately after the shooting. A large highlighted area showed the place where investigators are still searching for the footage from the day of the shooting.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pakistan-pm-crashes-putin-erdogan-meeting-after-waiting-for-russian-prez-for-40-minutes-this-is-what-happened-next-1765555322420">WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next</a>&nbsp;Authorities have said they were tracking multiple leads in the ongoing search for the suspected Brown University shooter, but still don't know where he was or his motive. "He could be anywhere," said &nbsp;Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez said in a Dec. 17 press conference. "We don’t know where the person is or who he is."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-someone-said-excuse-me-and-viral-photo-shows-lifeguard-running-barefoot-to-save-people-after-bondi-beach-attack-1765886991953">‘Someone said ‘excuse me’ and...’: Viral photo shows lifeguard running barefoot to save people after Bondi Beach attack</a>&nbsp;Attorney General Peter Neronha said earlier, “As we interview witnesses, we don't want them to learn facts from these press conferences. We want them to relay the facts that they have in their heads, including a person of interest."&nbsp;“We don't want a person of interest to shape what they're telling us based on what we know as expressed to you about those kinds of details," he added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-has-an-alcoholic-s-personality-us-president-s-chief-of-staff-susie-wiles-makes-big-claims-in-disingenuously-framed-interview-1765912672199">‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview</a> &nbsp;

Streets marked in a different colour show locations where footage confirms the person was present immediately after the shooting. 

Amid the investigation into the Brown University shooting, police have released a map showing the streets where the person of interest was on the day of the attack. The map, shared on X, showed streets marked in one particular colour to indicate where footage confirms the person walked hours before the shooting, police said. Streets marked in a different colour show locations where footage confirms the person was present immediately after the shooting. A large highlighted area showed the place where investigators are still searching for the footage from the day of the shooting. Also read: WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next Authorities have said they were tracking multiple leads in the ongoing search for the suspected Brown University shooter, but still don't know where he was or his motive. "He could be anywhere," said Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez said in a Dec. 17 press conference. "We don’t know where the person is or who he is." Also read: ‘Someone said ‘excuse me’ and...’: Viral photo shows lifeguard running barefoot to save people after Bondi Beach attack Attorney General Peter Neronha said earlier, “As we interview witnesses, we don't want them to learn facts from these press conferences. We want them to relay the facts that they have in their heads, including a person of interest." “We don't want a person of interest to shape what they're telling us based on what we know as expressed to you about those kinds of details," he added. Also read: ‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview

Streets marked in a different colour show locations where footage confirms the person was present immediately after the shooting.&nbsp;

Brown University shooting: Police release map showing streets where person of interest was on the day of attack

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, has warned that the evolving political situation in Bangladesh is India’s biggest strategic challenge since the 1971 Liberation War. The panel has cited the re-emergence of Islamist forces, a shifting domestic political landscape, and the growing influence of China and Pakistan in Dhaka as key points of concern. “If India fails to recalibrate at this moment, it risks losing strategic space in Dhaka not to war, but to irrelevance,” said the panel in its report.&nbsp;The report tabled in Parliament by the Shashi Tharoor-chaired committee draws on testimony from non-governmental experts and government officials, noting that the challenge for India is deeper and long-term in nature.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cji-surya-kant-flags-unfortunate-trend-of-judges-passing-multiple-orders-days-before-retirement-1766064617764">CJI Surya Kant flags ‘unfortunate trend’ of judges passing multiple orders days before retirement</a>&nbsp;The committee noted that unlike 1971, the situation in Bangladesh right now does not pose an immediate existential threat to India but cautioned that the ongoing political transition and strategic realignment in Dhaka present challenges that could reshape India’s security and foreign policy in the long run.&nbsp;The panel also flagged the decline of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party’s political dominance as a major factor behind the uncertainty.&nbsp;The Awami League won the January 2024 elections in Bangladesh by bagging 224 of 300 seats, but with just 40% voter turnout.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-conferred-oman-s-top-national-honour-delhi-muscat-sign-free-trade-agreement-1766054772351">PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement</a>&nbsp;The youth-led nationalist sentiment is emerging as a significant political force in Bangladesh, the report said while warning of the resurgence of Islamist groups.&nbsp;The committee also emphasised that the expanding footprint of China and Pakistan in Bangladesh is a key concern for India as any shift in regional alignment could dilute India’s traditional influence in Dhaka and complicate its security.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-govt-admits-laxity-in-helicopter-plane-collision-that-killed-67-in-washington-1766059461973">US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington</a>&nbsp;The Ministry of External Affairs told the panel that Delhi has made concerted efforts to insulate bilateral relations from the political developments in Bangladesh, continues engagement with the interim government and supports the aspirations of Bangladeshi people.&nbsp;The panel deduced that the evolving political trajectory in Bangladesh and its external alignments would require sustained attention from India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-are-doctor-death-french-anaesthetist-who-poisoned-12-patients-to-death-jailed-for-life-1766051562239">‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life</a>&nbsp;

The committee noted that unlike 1971, the situation in Bangladesh does not pose an immediate existential threat to India but cautioned that the ongoing political transition and strategic realignment in Dhaka present challenges that could reshape India’s security and foreign policy.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, has warned that the evolving political situation in Bangladesh is India’s biggest strategic challenge since the 1971 Liberation War. The panel has cited the re-emergence of Islamist forces, a shifting domestic political landscape, and the growing influence of China and Pakistan in Dhaka as key points of concern. “If India fails to recalibrate at this moment, it risks losing strategic space in Dhaka not to war, but to irrelevance,” said the panel in its report. The report tabled in Parliament by the Shashi Tharoor-chaired committee draws on testimony from non-governmental experts and government officials, noting that the challenge for India is deeper and long-term in nature. Also Read: CJI Surya Kant flags ‘unfortunate trend’ of judges passing multiple orders days before retirement The committee noted that unlike 1971, the situation in Bangladesh right now does not pose an immediate existential threat to India but cautioned that the ongoing political transition and strategic realignment in Dhaka present challenges that could reshape India’s security and foreign policy in the long run. The panel also flagged the decline of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party’s political dominance as a major factor behind the uncertainty. The Awami League won the January 2024 elections in Bangladesh by bagging 224 of 300 seats, but with just 40% voter turnout. Also Read: PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement The youth-led nationalist sentiment is emerging as a significant political force in Bangladesh, the report said while warning of the resurgence of Islamist groups. The committee also emphasised that the expanding footprint of China and Pakistan in Bangladesh is a key concern for India as any shift in regional alignment could dilute India’s traditional influence in Dhaka and complicate its security. Also Read: US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington The Ministry of External Affairs told the panel that Delhi has made concerted efforts to insulate bilateral relations from the political developments in Bangladesh, continues engagement with the interim government and supports the aspirations of Bangladeshi people. The panel deduced that the evolving political trajectory in Bangladesh and its external alignments would require sustained attention from India. Also Read: ‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life

The committee noted that unlike 1971, the situation in Bangladesh does not pose an immediate existential threat to India but cautioned that the ongoing political transition and strategic realignment in Dhaka present challenges that could reshape India’s security and foreign policy.

‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties

A German aerospace engineer may soon make history by becoming the first wheelchair user to go to space. She is expected to fly on Blue Origin’s next human space mission, which will launch from West Texas, marking a big step for inclusion in space travel. Michaela (Michi) Benthaus, an aerospace engineer at the European Space Agency, has been chosen as one of six passengers for a Blue Origin spaceflight. She will ride the New Shepard rocket on its 37th mission, which is scheduled to launch soon.&nbsp;Benthaus has used a wheelchair since 2018. She was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident, which caused a spinal cord injury. New Shepard is a spacecraft built by Blue Origin, the company started by Jeff Bezos. It is used for short space trips above Earth’s atmosphere, and since 2021, most of its flights have carried people into space for a few minutes. The upcoming launch will be Blue Origin’s first human spaceflight after a gap of more than two months, during which no people were sent to space. It will be the sixth such mission, following the April flight where all six passengers were women, including singer Katy Perry and journalist Gayle King, who took a short trip into space together.&nbsp;The upcoming trip comes soon after Blue Origin’s recent launch of the New Glenn rocket. That mission was uncrewed (no people on board) and was launched from Florida, showing the company’s rapid progress in space missions. Here’s everything to know about Blue Origin’s next New Shepard mission, called NS-37. This will be the rocket’s 37th flight overall and its 16th mission carrying people into space.<h2>When will Blue Origin’s next rocket launch take place in Texas?</h2>&nbsp;Blue Origin plans to launch its New Shepard rocket on Thursday, December 18. The spacecraft is expected to lift off at 9:30 p.m. IST, according to the company’s announcement.The US aviation authority (FAA) has said that if the launch is delayed, Blue Origin has a backup chance to launch the next day. This means the mission can be rescheduled quickly if needed.&nbsp;<h2>From where are Blue Origin’s New Shepard rockets launched?</h2>&nbsp;Blue Origin launches its New Shepard rocket from a private launch site in Texas. The place is called Launch Site One, located north of the town of Van Horn, near the US–Mexico border.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>First wheelchair user may travel to space on next Blue Origin rocket launch</h2>&nbsp;Benthaus, an aerospace engineer at the European Space Agency, is expected to make history. She could become the first person who uses a wheelchair to travel to space, marking a major moment for inclusion in space missions. In 2018, Benthaus hurt her spine in a mountain biking accident. Because of this injury, she cannot walk, according to Blue Origin. Benthaus said that after her accident, she believed her dream of going to space was over. In an Instagram post on August 12, she said she is very grateful and hopes her journey will change how the space industry thinks, so that more people with disabilities get chances like this.&nbsp;<h2>Who will be part of the crew on Blue Origin’s next space mission?</h2>&nbsp;When New Shepard launches again, the six selected passengers will become part of a group of 80 people who have already flown on this spacecraft. These flights happened over 15 earlier human missions, and six people have even flown more than once. Apart from Benthaus, five other passengers have been chosen for the NS-37 mission.&nbsp;<ul><li>Joey Hyde – a physicist and investor from Florida</li><li>Hans Koenigsmann – a German-American aerospace engineer who worked with SpaceX for 20 years&nbsp;</li><li>Neal Milch – a business leader and entrepreneur, and chairman of a medical research institute</li><li>Adonis Pouroulis – an entrepreneur and investor in the energy and natural resources sector</li><li>Jason Stansell – an adventurer from West Texas with a strong interest in rockets and space</li></ul>&nbsp;<h2>Is Blue Origin owned by Jeff Bezos?</h2> &nbsp;Jeff Bezos, the billionaire who founded Amazon, started Blue Origin in 2000.The company is based in Washington state and tests and launches its New Shepard spacecraft from West Texas.&nbsp;<h2>What is New Shepard?</h2>&nbsp;New Shepard is a reusable rocket built by Blue Origin, reports <a href="http://usatoday.com/">usatoday.com</a>. It is mainly used to carry up to six people on short trips to the edge of space, where they experience weightlessness for a few minutes. Jeff Bezos himself flew on Blue Origin’s New Shepard during its first human mission in July 2021, reports <a href="http://usatoday.com/">usatoday.com</a>. Before carrying people, the spacecraft had completed 15 test flights since 2012, proving it was safe and reliable.&nbsp;<h2>What is New Glenn?</h2>&nbsp;The New Shepard is a small rocket meant for short space trips, and it is different from the much bigger New Glenn rocket, reports news outlet USA Today. New Glenn is built for longer missions into orbit and has already launched twice from Florida. The 322-foot-tall New Glenn rocket, one of the largest working rockets in the world, last launched on November 13, reports news outlet USA Today. The mission was to send two NASA ESCAPADE satellites toward Mars, showing the rocket’s deep-space capability.&nbsp;New Shepard is built for short space trips, but New Glenn shows Blue Origin’s bigger goal. With New Glenn, Blue Origin wants to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, whose Falcon 9 rockets currently lead the global commercial space market.&nbsp;<h2>What takes place during a New Shepard rocket launch?</h2>&nbsp;Each New Shepard space trip lasts about 11 minutes. This time includes the launch, a short stay in space, and the capsule landing back on Earth. The New Shepard rocket is named after Alan Shepard, the first American to go to space. It is about 60 feet tall and has a rounded crew capsule on top. The flight is fully automatic, which means no pilot is needed to fly the spacecraft.&nbsp;During launch, the spacecraft flies faster than 2,000 miles per hour (over 3,200 km per hour). After reaching this very high speed, the rocket booster separates from the crew capsule. At this stage, the crew capsule becomes weightless, so passengers float freely. The spacecraft then rises above the Kármán Line — the official edge of space, about 62 miles (100 km) above Earth. If people are on board, passengers can unbuckle their seats and enjoy a few minutes of weightlessness. They can float freely and look at Earth through the capsule’s large windows, getting a beautiful view of the planet.At the same time, the rocket booster returns to Earth. It fires its engines and uses fins to slow down, then lands straight up about two miles (around 3.2 km) from the launch site. The crew capsule slowly falls back toward Earth in what Blue Origin calls a “stable freefall”. Three large parachutes open, helping the capsule land gently in the desert, raising clouds of dust on touchdown.&nbsp;<h2>What is the price of a Blue Origin space ride?</h2>&nbsp;If you dream of flying to space on a Blue Origin spacecraft, you usually need to be very rich or famous enough to be specially invited. For most people, space travel is still not affordable. Blue Origin does not openly show ticket prices on its website. But to reserve a seat, a customer must agree to pay a $150,000 deposit (about ₹1.35 crores), showing that space travel is very expensive.&nbsp;In 2021, the first Blue Origin space ticket sold for $28 million (about ₹252 crore). The price was decided through an auction, where 7,600 people from 159 countries registered to bid, showing that space travel costs run into crores and are meant for the ultra-rich. However, a few selected passengers did not pay themselves. Their New Shepard seats were paid for using grants or special funding provided by large institutions, not personal money.

Here’s everything to know about Blue Origin’s next New Shepard mission, called NS-37. This will be the rocket’s 37th flight overall and its 16th mission carrying people into space.

A German aerospace engineer may soon make history by becoming the first wheelchair user to go to space. She is expected to fly on Blue Origin’s next human space mission, which will launch from West Texas, marking a big step for inclusion in space travel. Michaela (Michi) Benthaus, an aerospace engineer at the European Space Agency, has been chosen as one of six passengers for a Blue Origin spaceflight. She will ride the New Shepard rocket on its 37th mission, which is scheduled to launch soon. Benthaus has used a wheelchair since 2018. She was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident, which caused a spinal cord injury. New Shepard is a spacecraft built by Blue Origin, the company started by Jeff Bezos. It is used for short space trips above Earth’s atmosphere, and since 2021, most of its flights have carried people into space for a few minutes. The upcoming launch will be Blue Origin’s first human spaceflight after a gap of more than two months, during which no people were sent to space. It will be the sixth such mission, following the April flight where all six passengers were women, including singer Katy Perry and journalist Gayle King, who took a short trip into space together. The upcoming trip comes soon after Blue Origin’s recent launch of the New Glenn rocket. That mission was uncrewed (no people on board) and was launched from Florida, showing the company’s rapid progress in space missions. Here’s everything to know about Blue Origin’s next New Shepard mission, called NS-37. This will be the rocket’s 37th flight overall and its 16th mission carrying people into space. When will Blue Origin’s next rocket launch take place in Texas? Blue Origin plans to launch its New Shepard rocket on Thursday, December 18. The spacecraft is expected to lift off at 9:30 p.m. IST, according to the company’s announcement. The US aviation authority (FAA) has said that if the launch is delayed, Blue Origin has a backup chance to launch the next day. This means the mission can be rescheduled quickly if needed. From where are Blue Origin’s New Shepard rockets launched? Blue Origin launches its New Shepard rocket from a private launch site in Texas. The place is called Launch Site One, located north of the town of Van Horn, near the US–Mexico border. First wheelchair user may travel to space on next Blue Origin rocket launch Benthaus, an aerospace engineer at the European Space Agency, is expected to make history. She could become the first person who uses a wheelchair to travel to space, marking a major moment for inclusion in space missions. In 2018, Benthaus hurt her spine in a mountain biking accident. Because of this injury, she cannot walk, according to Blue Origin. Benthaus said that after her accident, she believed her dream of going to space was over. In an Instagram post on August 12, she said she is very grateful and hopes her journey will change how the space industry thinks, so that more people with disabilities get chances like this. Who will be part of the crew on Blue Origin’s next space mission? When New Shepard launches again, the six selected passengers will become part of a group of 80 people who have already flown on this spacecraft. These flights happened over 15 earlier human missions, and six people have even flown more than once. Apart from Benthaus, five other passengers have been chosen for the NS-37 mission. Joey Hyde – a physicist and investor from Florida Hans Koenigsmann – a German-American aerospace engineer who worked with SpaceX for 20 years Neal Milch – a business leader and entrepreneur, and chairman of a medical research institute Adonis Pouroulis – an entrepreneur and investor in the energy and natural resources sector Jason Stansell – an adventurer from West Texas with a strong interest in rockets and space Is Blue Origin owned by Jeff Bezos? Jeff Bezos, the billionaire who founded Amazon, started Blue Origin in 2000. The company is based in Washington state and tests and launches its New Shepard spacecraft from West Texas. What is New Shepard? New Shepard is a reusable rocket built by Blue Origin, reports usatoday.com. It is mainly used to carry up to six people on short trips to the edge of space, where they experience weightlessness for a few minutes. Jeff Bezos himself flew on Blue Origin’s New Shepard during its first human mission in July 2021, reports usatoday.com. Before carrying people, the spacecraft had completed 15 test flights since 2012, proving it was safe and reliable. What is New Glenn? The New Shepard is a small rocket meant for short space trips, and it is different from the much bigger New Glenn rocket, reports news outlet USA Today. New Glenn is built for longer missions into orbit and has already launched twice from Florida. The 322-foot-tall New Glenn rocket, one of the largest working rockets in the world, last launched on November 13, reports news outlet USA Today. The mission was to send two NASA ESCAPADE satellites toward Mars, showing the rocket’s deep-space capability. New Shepard is built for short space trips, but New Glenn shows Blue Origin’s bigger goal. With New Glenn, Blue Origin wants to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, whose Falcon 9 rockets currently lead the global commercial space market. What takes place during a New Shepard rocket launch? Each New Shepard space trip lasts about 11 minutes. This time includes the launch, a short stay in space, and the capsule landing back on Earth. The New Shepard rocket is named after Alan Shepard, the first American to go to space. It is about 60 feet tall and has a rounded crew capsule on top. The flight is fully automatic, which means no pilot is needed to fly the spacecraft. During launch, the spacecraft flies faster than 2,000 miles per hour (over 3,200 km per hour). After reaching this very high speed, the rocket booster separates from the crew capsule. At this stage, the crew capsule becomes weightless, so passengers float freely. The spacecraft then rises above the Kármán Line — the official edge of space, about 62 miles (100 km) above Earth. If people are on board, passengers can unbuckle their seats and enjoy a few minutes of weightlessness. They can float freely and look at Earth through the capsule’s large windows, getting a beautiful view of the planet. At the same time, the rocket booster returns to Earth. It fires its engines and uses fins to slow down, then lands straight up about two miles (around 3.2 km) from the launch site. The crew capsule slowly falls back toward Earth in what Blue Origin calls a “stable freefall”. Three large parachutes open, helping the capsule land gently in the desert, raising clouds of dust on touchdown. What is the price of a Blue Origin space ride? If you dream of flying to space on a Blue Origin spacecraft, you usually need to be very rich or famous enough to be specially invited. For most people, space travel is still not affordable. Blue Origin does not openly show ticket prices on its website. But to reserve a seat, a customer must agree to pay a $150,000 deposit (about ₹1.35 crores), showing that space travel is very expensive. In 2021, the first Blue Origin space ticket sold for $28 million (about ₹252 crore). The price was decided through an auction, where 7,600 people from 159 countries registered to bid, showing that space travel costs run into crores and are meant for the ultra-rich. However, a few selected passengers did not pay themselves. Their New Shepard seats were paid for using grants or special funding provided by large institutions, not personal money.

Here’s everything to know about Blue Origin’s next New Shepard mission, called NS-37. This will be the rocket’s 37th flight overall and its 16th mission carrying people into space.

First wheelchair user heads to the stars: Today’s historic launch

An earthquake of 5.1 magnitude hit Taiwan on Thursday (Dec 18). The epicentre of the quake was located about 18 km from Hualien city, at a depth of roughly 31.6 km. The tremor was strong enough to briefly shake buildings in the capital, Taipei, though there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-has-an-alcoholic-s-personality-us-president-s-chief-of-staff-susie-wiles-makes-big-claims-in-disingenuously-framed-interview-1765912672199">‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview</a>&nbsp;Taiwan lies near the junction of two tectonic plates and is prone to earthquakes. More than 100 people were killed in a quake in southern Taiwan in 2016, while a 7.3 magnitude quake killed more than 2,000 people in 1999.&nbsp;Last year, Taiwan was hit by a major 6.3 magnitude earthquake. The island had been rattled by at least 80 earthquakes in the month of April, with the first strong quake felt in the capital Taipei of magnitude 5.5 at around 5:08 pm (local time) (0908 GMT). It was then followed by a series of aftershocks and quakes, with two intense tremors hitting one after another around 2:30 am (local time) (1830 GMT).&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-who-won-nyc-mayor-polls-on-promise-to-make-city-affordable-set-to-move-into-100mn-mansion-with-wife-for-safety-1765296231524">Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’</a>&nbsp;Agencies mentioned that the quake occurred at 2:26 am (local time) (1826 GMT) and originated in eastern Hualien. According to the Hualien Fire Department, teams were dispatched to inspect for any disaster from the new quakes. The initial statement by the department stated that no casualties had been reported yet.&nbsp;The earthquake was the latest in the series of quakes that had been shaking the island since Monday afternoon. Taiwan has been hit by hundreds of aftershocks after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Hualien earlier this month.&nbsp;

The tremor was strong enough to briefly shake buildings in the capital, Taipei, though there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

An earthquake of 5.1 magnitude hit Taiwan on Thursday (Dec 18). The epicentre of the quake was located about 18 km from Hualien city, at a depth of roughly 31.6 km. The tremor was strong enough to briefly shake buildings in the capital, Taipei, though there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Also read: ‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview Taiwan lies near the junction of two tectonic plates and is prone to earthquakes. More than 100 people were killed in a quake in southern Taiwan in 2016, while a 7.3 magnitude quake killed more than 2,000 people in 1999. Last year, Taiwan was hit by a major 6.3 magnitude earthquake. The island had been rattled by at least 80 earthquakes in the month of April, with the first strong quake felt in the capital Taipei of magnitude 5.5 at around 5:08 pm (local time) (0908 GMT). It was then followed by a series of aftershocks and quakes, with two intense tremors hitting one after another around 2:30 am (local time) (1830 GMT). Also read: Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’ Agencies mentioned that the quake occurred at 2:26 am (local time) (1826 GMT) and originated in eastern Hualien. According to the Hualien Fire Department, teams were dispatched to inspect for any disaster from the new quakes. The initial statement by the department stated that no casualties had been reported yet. The earthquake was the latest in the series of quakes that had been shaking the island since Monday afternoon. Taiwan has been hit by hundreds of aftershocks after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Hualien earlier this month.

The tremor was strong enough to briefly shake buildings in the capital, Taipei, though there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

Taiwan hit by 5.1 magnitude earthquake, epicentre near Hualien city

Tyler Robinson, the accused in the murder of Donald Trump's aide Charlie Kirk, allegedly texted his friends about the attack less than two hours after it happened. On September 10, the 22-year-old accused was messaging a friend on Discord, sharing results of the online word game Wordle.&nbsp;Prosecutors say that by then, Robinson had already been driving three hours from southern Utah to Utah Valley University in Orem. Around 80 minutes after Kirk's shooting, Robinson reportedly messaged his friend, “You see this news?????”.&nbsp;&nbsp;The friend replied, "Utah gets a national headline for the first time in a while and it's someone sliming charlie kirk”, “no like an hour ago”,“he's reported dead, and the footage looks BAD.”&nbsp;As per the authority, Robinson told his roommate shortly after the shooting, “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can't be negotiated out.”&nbsp;Kirk, who was shot dead in Utah on September 10, was warned that there was a "100 per cent" chance he would be killed. His security agency warned him that he did not have enough protection and that he was in "grave danger."&nbsp;Kris Herzog, owner of The Bodyguard Group of Beverly Hills, who used to work with Kirk, had warned him. He said his team believed Kirk’s security was “not even close" to what it should have been. “Everyone in my group felt that his security was not even close to what it should be and he was in grave danger of being shot and killed at one of his upcoming events," Herzog told The Mirror.&nbsp;“I told him that a sniper would probably go for a headshot, which means it was of critical importance to have the ballistic glass," Herzog explained. “My prediction of his murder has come true," Herzog told the Daily Mail, adding, “sadly he never got back to me."&nbsp;

Prosecutors say that by then, Robinson had already been driving three hours from southern Utah to Utah Valley University in Orem.

Tyler Robinson, the accused in the murder of Donald Trump's aide Charlie Kirk, allegedly texted his friends about the attack less than two hours after it happened. On September 10, the 22-year-old accused was messaging a friend on Discord, sharing results of the online word game Wordle. Prosecutors say that by then, Robinson had already been driving three hours from southern Utah to Utah Valley University in Orem. Around 80 minutes after Kirk's shooting, Robinson reportedly messaged his friend, “You see this news?????”. The friend replied, "Utah gets a national headline for the first time in a while and it's someone sliming charlie kirk”, “no like an hour ago”,“he's reported dead, and the footage looks BAD.” As per the authority, Robinson told his roommate shortly after the shooting, “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can't be negotiated out.” Kirk, who was shot dead in Utah on September 10, was warned that there was a "100 per cent" chance he would be killed. His security agency warned him that he did not have enough protection and that he was in "grave danger." Kris Herzog, owner of The Bodyguard Group of Beverly Hills, who used to work with Kirk, had warned him. He said his team believed Kirk’s security was “not even close" to what it should have been. “Everyone in my group felt that his security was not even close to what it should be and he was in grave danger of being shot and killed at one of his upcoming events," Herzog told The Mirror. “I told him that a sniper would probably go for a headshot, which means it was of critical importance to have the ballistic glass," Herzog explained. “My prediction of his murder has come true," Herzog told the Daily Mail, adding, “sadly he never got back to me."

Prosecutors say that by then, Robinson had already been driving three hours from southern Utah to Utah Valley University in Orem.

‘You see this news?’: Here’s what Tyler Robinson texted his friend after ‘shooting’ Charlie Kirk

Nearly 80 Tibetans have been arrested by Chinese officials in Kashi village, Kham Zachuka, Sershul County, Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, after a protest against illegal gold mining operations. In addition, seven individuals are still unaccounted for, the news agency ANI cited the report by Phayul.&nbsp;The information about the incident was announced by Tempa Gyaltsen Zamlha, Deputy Director and environmental researcher at the Tibet Policy Institute (TPI), while addressing a press conference on Tuesday in Dharamshala. He confirmed that the detentions took place at around 6:50 pm on November 6 after local Tibetans confronted the miners and informed township officials about gold extraction that was discovered on November 5, at 2:11 pm in Serkhok (Gold Valley).&nbsp;After the confrontation began, Chinese officials launched "systematic, door-to-door arrests" in Kashi village. After the arrest, they were reportedly taken to Sershul County for questioning. Soon after the arrests, officials reportedly held a meeting and warned them for discussing the incident, and insisted that it must "never be leaked to higher levels or to the outside world," and if someone does so, they will be treated as a serious "criminal offence."<h3>Chinese Cops raid homes, confiscate mobile phones</h3>Security personnel reportedly raided homes, confiscated mobile phones and carried out intrusive searches. Armed police and military forces were allegedly stationed across roads and public areas, with individuals detained even for perceived opposition linked to the mining projects, as highlighted in the Phayul report.&nbsp;Zamlha said residents have described conditions in Kashi township as “highly volatile,” with villagers deeply worried about the safety of detained relatives amid continued arrests, restrictions on movement and limited communication. She also cited allegations of harsh treatment during interrogations.&nbsp;The claims suggest detainees were denied sleep and toilet access and given only sparse meals—cold tsampa mixed with water once daily. Some reportedly suffered broken ribs, kidney ailments from severe beatings, or lasting physical and psychological trauma following intense questioning.&nbsp;Medical checks were reportedly carried out at Sershul County Hospital, but full results were not disclosed to detainees. Elderly residents were also allegedly detained, had their phone records closely scrutinised and were warned against sharing information before being released, the report added.

The Deputy Director and environmental researcher confirmed that the detentions took place at around 6:50 pm on November 6 after local Tibetans confronted the miners and informed township officials about gold extraction that was discovered on November 5, at 2:11 pm in Serkhok (Gold Valley).

Nearly 80 Tibetans have been arrested by Chinese officials in Kashi village, Kham Zachuka, Sershul County, Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, after a protest against illegal gold mining operations. In addition, seven individuals are still unaccounted for, the news agency ANI cited the report by Phayul. The information about the incident was announced by Tempa Gyaltsen Zamlha, Deputy Director and environmental researcher at the Tibet Policy Institute (TPI), while addressing a press conference on Tuesday in Dharamshala. He confirmed that the detentions took place at around 6:50 pm on November 6 after local Tibetans confronted the miners and informed township officials about gold extraction that was discovered on November 5, at 2:11 pm in Serkhok (Gold Valley). After the confrontation began, Chinese officials launched "systematic, door-to-door arrests" in Kashi village. After the arrest, they were reportedly taken to Sershul County for questioning. Soon after the arrests, officials reportedly held a meeting and warned them for discussing the incident, and insisted that it must "never be leaked to higher levels or to the outside world," and if someone does so, they will be treated as a serious "criminal offence." Chinese Cops raid homes, confiscate mobile phones Security personnel reportedly raided homes, confiscated mobile phones and carried out intrusive searches. Armed police and military forces were allegedly stationed across roads and public areas, with individuals detained even for perceived opposition linked to the mining projects, as highlighted in the Phayul report. Zamlha said residents have described conditions in Kashi township as “highly volatile,” with villagers deeply worried about the safety of detained relatives amid continued arrests, restrictions on movement and limited communication. She also cited allegations of harsh treatment during interrogations. The claims suggest detainees were denied sleep and toilet access and given only sparse meals—cold tsampa mixed with water once daily. Some reportedly suffered broken ribs, kidney ailments from severe beatings, or lasting physical and psychological trauma following intense questioning. Medical checks were reportedly carried out at Sershul County Hospital, but full results were not disclosed to detainees. Elderly residents were also allegedly detained, had their phone records closely scrutinised and were warned against sharing information before being released, the report added.

The Deputy Director and environmental researcher confirmed that the detentions took place at around 6:50 pm on November 6 after local Tibetans confronted the miners and informed township officials about gold extraction that was discovered on November 5, at 2:11 pm in Serkhok (Gold Valley).

China detains nearly 80 Tibetans over protest against illegal gold mining, launches 'door-to-door' arrests: What is happening

European Union President Ursula von der Leyen said EU leaders will not leave the summit without a financial solution for Ukraine. European Union leaders are planning to use Russian frozen assets to keep the Ukrainian war effort afloat, but there is a lack of consensus among the European leaders. As the Russian invasion of Ukraine has progressed, Europe has started to perceive Russia as a threat to its own security and wants no stone unturned to keep it financed and fighting until it finds the upper hand in the peace negotiations.&nbsp;“Now we have a simple choice — either money today or blood tomorrow. And I am not talking about Ukraine only, I am talking about Europe,” said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This comes just after US President Donald Trump called Europe “decaying” last week, and according to reports United States is planning to patronise Eurosceptic forces to direct Europe away from its liberal ideas.&nbsp;Russia's central bank has earlier said that the EU's plan to use its assets is illegal and will use any means at its disposal to protect its interests. It filed a lawsuit in Moscow this week seeking $230 billion in damages from clearing house Euroclear.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Thursday that any failure to reach a decision will be a big problem for Kyiv. Ukraine is expected to run out of funds to continue its defence against Russian aggression by the second quarter of the next year."On Friday and Saturday, our team will be in the United States of America; they are already on their way ... and the Americans are waiting for them," said Zelenskyy to the reporters.

EU leaders will not leave summit without a financial plan for Ukraine as divisions grow over using frozen Russian assets to fund Kyiv’s war effort.

European Union President Ursula von der Leyen said EU leaders will not leave the summit without a financial solution for Ukraine. European Union leaders are planning to use Russian frozen assets to keep the Ukrainian war effort afloat, but there is a lack of consensus among the European leaders. As the Russian invasion of Ukraine has progressed, Europe has started to perceive Russia as a threat to its own security and wants no stone unturned to keep it financed and fighting until it finds the upper hand in the peace negotiations. “Now we have a simple choice — either money today or blood tomorrow. And I am not talking about Ukraine only, I am talking about Europe,” said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This comes just after US President Donald Trump called Europe “decaying” last week, and according to reports United States is planning to patronise Eurosceptic forces to direct Europe away from its liberal ideas. Russia's central bank has earlier said that the EU's plan to use its assets is illegal and will use any means at its disposal to protect its interests. It filed a lawsuit in Moscow this week seeking $230 billion in damages from clearing house Euroclear. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Thursday that any failure to reach a decision will be a big problem for Kyiv. Ukraine is expected to run out of funds to continue its defence against Russian aggression by the second quarter of the next year. "On Friday and Saturday, our team will be in the United States of America; they are already on their way ... and the Americans are waiting for them," said Zelenskyy to the reporters.

EU leaders will not leave summit without a financial plan for Ukraine as divisions grow over using frozen Russian assets to fund Kyiv’s war effort.

EU leaders 'will not leave' crunch summit without making a decision on Ukraine loan

On Monday (Dec 15), Pakistan’s Fauji Fertiliser Company announced its interest in acquiring stake in the loss-making national carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The information is in accordance with a filing with the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The fertiliser company is a unit of the army-run Fauji Foundation.&nbsp;On December 23, the country will be making a second attempt to sell the loss-making airline. PIA is being privatised under the $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout plan. Earlier in 2024, a similar bid had taken place to sell the airline founded in 1946. Before running into controversies, PIA once had a good image.&nbsp;In January 2025, the airline published an advertisement celebrating the resumption of flights to Paris from Islamabad. The post read, “Paris, we're coming today,” and it was the visual that attracted flak. With the PIA flight moving towards the Eiffel Tower, netizens drew parallels to the 9/11 attacks.

On December 23, the country will be making a second attempt to sell the loss-making airline. PIA is being privatised under the $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout plan.

On Monday (Dec 15), Pakistan’s Fauji Fertiliser Company announced its interest in acquiring stake in the loss-making national carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The information is in accordance with a filing with the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The fertiliser company is a unit of the army-run Fauji Foundation. On December 23, the country will be making a second attempt to sell the loss-making airline. PIA is being privatised under the $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout plan. Earlier in 2024, a similar bid had taken place to sell the airline founded in 1946. Before running into controversies, PIA once had a good image. In January 2025, the airline published an advertisement celebrating the resumption of flights to Paris from Islamabad. The post read, “Paris, we're coming today,” and it was the visual that attracted flak. With the PIA flight moving towards the Eiffel Tower, netizens drew parallels to the 9/11 attacks.

On December 23, the country will be making a second attempt to sell the loss-making airline. PIA is being privatised under the $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout plan.

Pak army-run fertiliser company in race to buy state-carrier PIA

Before the end of 2025, the Trump administration gave a surprise to Taiwan after announcing a massive package of arms sales to the nation valued at over $10 billion that includes medium-range missiles, howitzers and drones. He also announced a $1,776 “warrior dividend” check for active-duty servicemembers who will be paid with tariff revenue. Additionally, there were several such major steps and police moves taken by the US President Donald Trump that surprised everyone.<h3>Here's is list of the top 15 decisions and policy moves</h3><ol><li>Largest Ever US Arms Sale to Taiwan</li></ol>Trump announced an $11.15 billion weapons package to Taiwan, including missiles and rocket systems, to bolster its defence against China, provoking strong rebukes from Beijing over regional security and US–China tensions.&nbsp;2. Trump's ‘Warrior Dividend’ Funded by Tariffs&nbsp;In a televised announcement, Trump revealed a $1,776 bonus for US military personnel, attributing it to tariff revenues and linking trade policy to troop support.&nbsp;3. Federal Travel Ban Expansion &amp; Immigration Pause&nbsp;The administration paused immigration applications from 19 non-European countries and expanded travel restrictions, citing security concerns, tightening US entry rules in response to global threats.&nbsp;4. Withdrawal From the World Health Organisation&nbsp;Trump signed an order to withdraw the US from the WHO again, criticising the organisation’s pandemic response and reducing U.S. engagement with global health governance.&nbsp;5. Designation of Fentanyl as a ‘Weapon of Mass Destruction’&nbsp;In a bold executive move, Trump classified fentanyl as a WMD, enabling the use of military and intelligence tools against traffickers, reflecting a militarised approach to combat the opioid crisis.&nbsp;6. Ramp-Up of Denaturalisation Cases&nbsp;The administration directed US Citizenship and Immigration Services to dramatically increase denaturalisation proceedings against some naturalised citizens alleged to have gained status fraudulently, part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy.&nbsp;7. US Tech Force to Recruit Big Tech Professionals&nbsp;Trump launched a federal initiative to recruit around 1,000 tech experts from companies like Apple, Google and Microsoft to modernise government digital systems and boost artificial intelligence capacity.&nbsp;8. Repeal of Biden-Era Fuel Efficiency Standards&nbsp;The White House moved to dismantle federal vehicle fuel efficiency rules, reducing emissions regulations in favour of greater industry flexibility but drawing environmental concerns and criticism.&nbsp;9. Naval Blockade of Venezuelan Oil Tankers&nbsp;Trump ordered a full blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers entering and leaving ports, intensifying pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s government by demanding the return of US assets.&nbsp;10. House Vote on Federal Union Rights Order&nbsp;Congress moved to repeal a Trump executive order that limited collective bargaining rights for federal workers, reflecting domestic pushback on labour policy changes instituted during his term.&nbsp;11. Removal of Brazilian Justice from US Sanctions List&nbsp;Following diplomatic engagement, the US removed a Brazilian Supreme Court justice and his wife from a sanctions list, signalling a slight shift toward improved bilateral relations.&nbsp;12. Executive Order on National AI Policy Framework&nbsp;Trump signed an order to create a federal framework for artificial intelligence, centralising AI regulatory authority and limiting state-level rules to promote national coherence.&nbsp;13. Price-Fixing and Food Supply Chain EO&nbsp;An executive order aimed to counter anti-competitive behaviour and price-fixing in critical food supply sectors, seeking task forces to investigate foreign influence and market manipulation.&nbsp;14. Restoring Free Speech and Ending Federal Censorship&nbsp;An executive order sought to limit perceived government “censorship,” barring federal cooperation with content moderation and directing investigations into past federal communication policies.&nbsp;15. Executive Order Enforcing the Hyde Amendment&nbsp;Trump issued an order ending federal funding for elective abortions, reaffirming the Hyde Amendment and reversing Obama-era reproductive healthcare expansions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The key steps and policy moves by the US President Donald Trump reflect major decisions in 2025 covering national security, immigration, trade, technology, public health and culture wars.

Before the end of 2025, the Trump administration gave a surprise to Taiwan after announcing a massive package of arms sales to the nation valued at over $10 billion that includes medium-range missiles, howitzers and drones. He also announced a $1,776 “warrior dividend” check for active-duty servicemembers who will be paid with tariff revenue. Additionally, there were several such major steps and police moves taken by the US President Donald Trump that surprised everyone. Here's is list of the top 15 decisions and policy moves Largest Ever US Arms Sale to Taiwan Trump announced an $11.15 billion weapons package to Taiwan, including missiles and rocket systems, to bolster its defence against China, provoking strong rebukes from Beijing over regional security and US–China tensions. 2. Trump's ‘Warrior Dividend’ Funded by Tariffs In a televised announcement, Trump revealed a $1,776 bonus for US military personnel, attributing it to tariff revenues and linking trade policy to troop support. 3. Federal Travel Ban Expansion & Immigration Pause The administration paused immigration applications from 19 non-European countries and expanded travel restrictions, citing security concerns, tightening US entry rules in response to global threats. 4. Withdrawal From the World Health Organisation Trump signed an order to withdraw the US from the WHO again, criticising the organisation’s pandemic response and reducing U.S. engagement with global health governance. 5. Designation of Fentanyl as a ‘Weapon of Mass Destruction’ In a bold executive move, Trump classified fentanyl as a WMD, enabling the use of military and intelligence tools against traffickers, reflecting a militarised approach to combat the opioid crisis. 6. Ramp-Up of Denaturalisation Cases The administration directed US Citizenship and Immigration Services to dramatically increase denaturalisation proceedings against some naturalised citizens alleged to have gained status fraudulently, part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy. 7. US Tech Force to Recruit Big Tech Professionals Trump launched a federal initiative to recruit around 1,000 tech experts from companies like Apple, Google and Microsoft to modernise government digital systems and boost artificial intelligence capacity. 8. Repeal of Biden-Era Fuel Efficiency Standards The White House moved to dismantle federal vehicle fuel efficiency rules, reducing emissions regulations in favour of greater industry flexibility but drawing environmental concerns and criticism. 9. Naval Blockade of Venezuelan Oil Tankers Trump ordered a full blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers entering and leaving ports, intensifying pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s government by demanding the return of US assets. 10. House Vote on Federal Union Rights Order Congress moved to repeal a Trump executive order that limited collective bargaining rights for federal workers, reflecting domestic pushback on labour policy changes instituted during his term. 11. Removal of Brazilian Justice from US Sanctions List Following diplomatic engagement, the US removed a Brazilian Supreme Court justice and his wife from a sanctions list, signalling a slight shift toward improved bilateral relations. 12. Executive Order on National AI Policy Framework Trump signed an order to create a federal framework for artificial intelligence, centralising AI regulatory authority and limiting state-level rules to promote national coherence. 13. Price-Fixing and Food Supply Chain EO An executive order aimed to counter anti-competitive behaviour and price-fixing in critical food supply sectors, seeking task forces to investigate foreign influence and market manipulation. 14. Restoring Free Speech and Ending Federal Censorship An executive order sought to limit perceived government “censorship,” barring federal cooperation with content moderation and directing investigations into past federal communication policies. 15. Executive Order Enforcing the Hyde Amendment Trump issued an order ending federal funding for elective abortions, reaffirming the Hyde Amendment and reversing Obama-era reproductive healthcare expansions.

The key steps and policy moves by the US President Donald Trump reflect major decisions in 2025 covering national security, immigration, trade, technology, public health and culture wars.

Year-Ender: What did Donald Trump announce in 2025? Full list of major decisions and policy moves by US President

Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday said that it hoped the US would not make a "fatal mistake” with Venezuela, warned that further escalation would have "unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere". The statement comes after the Trump administration on Tuesday announced a &nbsp;"blockade" on all sanctioned ships, as Washington tries to increase pressure on all the shipping routes in and around Venezuela.&nbsp;"We note the continuous and deliberate escalation of tensions around Venezuela, a country friendly to us. Of particular concern is the unilateral nature of decisions that pose a threat to international shipping," said the Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement.&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov earlier asked for an explanation about the seized tanker in November. He urged that although the United States consider itself entitled to conduct such operations, it will somehow explain, out of respect for other members of the world community. President Trump has spoken publicly demanding regime change or voluntary resignation of Maduro but Chevron is operating in Venezuela, buying Venezuelan oil.Russia wants a normalisation between Washington and Caracas. "We see tensions rising in the region and consider this to be potentially very dangerous," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov to reporters.&nbsp;Russia quoted Simon Bolivar, the Former Colombian President and a Venezuelan statesman and military officer who led Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia to independence from the Spanish empire. Russia stated that every country has the right to choose its own ruler and that every other country should respect this. The Russian Foreign Ministry also reiterated its support for "the Maduro government's course". It said, "We hope that the D. Trump administration, which is characterised by a rational and pragmatic approach, will not make a fatal mistake."&nbsp;

Russia warns the US against escalating tensions in Venezuela after Washington announces a blockade on sanctioned ships, citing risks to global shipping.

Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday said that it hoped the US would not make a "fatal mistake” with Venezuela, warned that further escalation would have "unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere". The statement comes after the Trump administration on Tuesday announced a "blockade" on all sanctioned ships, as Washington tries to increase pressure on all the shipping routes in and around Venezuela. "We note the continuous and deliberate escalation of tensions around Venezuela, a country friendly to us. Of particular concern is the unilateral nature of decisions that pose a threat to international shipping," said the Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov earlier asked for an explanation about the seized tanker in November. He urged that although the United States consider itself entitled to conduct such operations, it will somehow explain, out of respect for other members of the world community. President Trump has spoken publicly demanding regime change or voluntary resignation of Maduro but Chevron is operating in Venezuela, buying Venezuelan oil. Russia wants a normalisation between Washington and Caracas. "We see tensions rising in the region and consider this to be potentially very dangerous," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov to reporters. Russia quoted Simon Bolivar, the Former Colombian President and a Venezuelan statesman and military officer who led Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia to independence from the Spanish empire. Russia stated that every country has the right to choose its own ruler and that every other country should respect this. The Russian Foreign Ministry also reiterated its support for "the Maduro government's course". It said, "We hope that the D. Trump administration, which is characterised by a rational and pragmatic approach, will not make a fatal mistake."

Russia warns the US against escalating tensions in Venezuela after Washington announces a blockade on sanctioned ships, citing risks to global shipping.

Russia warns US against making 'fatal mistake' in Venezuela

The Trump administration has installed plaques on the exterior of the White House, mocking the former presidents of the US. From Barack Obama to Joe Biden, the plaques have made fun of the predecessors of Donald Trump and also have promoted disinformation about their respective administrations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-has-an-alcoholic-s-personality-us-president-s-chief-of-staff-susie-wiles-makes-big-claims-in-disingenuously-framed-interview-1765912672199">‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview</a>&nbsp;At the place of Joe Biden, there is a portrait of the "Autopen" and refers to him as “Sleepy Joe Biden” and calls him “the worst President in American History.” The plaque has some derisive statements about the former president, referring to Biden’s “severe mental decline,” “the Biden Crime Family”, and his “Radical Left handlers."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-who-won-nyc-mayor-polls-on-promise-to-make-city-affordable-set-to-move-into-100mn-mansion-with-wife-for-safety-1765296231524">Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’</a>&nbsp;"Sleepy Joe Biden was, by far, the worst President in American Hisntory. Taking office as a result of the most corrupt Election ever seen in the United States, Biden oversaw a series of unprecedented disasters that brought our Nation to the brink of destruction. His policies caused the highest Inflation ever recorded, leading teh US Dollar to lose more than 20 per cent of its value in 4 years," the plaque said.&nbsp;"His Afghanistan Disaster was among the most humiliating events in American History," the plaque said, noting the deaths of 13 U.S. service members during the 2021 withdrawal. "Seeing Biden’s devastating weakness, Russia invaded Ukraine, and Hamas terrorists launched the heinous October 7th attack on Israel," it said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pakistan-pm-crashes-putin-erdogan-meeting-after-waiting-for-russian-prez-for-40-minutes-this-is-what-happened-next-1765555322420">WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next</a>&nbsp;"Nicknamed both "Sleepy" and "Crooked," Joe Biden was dominated by his Radical Left handlers....But depite it all, resident Trump would get Re-Elected in a Landslide, and SAVE AMERCA!" the plaque said.

The plaque has some derisive statements about the former president, referring to Biden severe mental decline, the Biden Crime Family, and his Radical Left handlers.

The Trump administration has installed plaques on the exterior of the White House, mocking the former presidents of the US. From Barack Obama to Joe Biden, the plaques have made fun of the predecessors of Donald Trump and also have promoted disinformation about their respective administrations. Also read: ‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview At the place of Joe Biden, there is a portrait of the "Autopen" and refers to him as “Sleepy Joe Biden” and calls him “the worst President in American History.” The plaque has some derisive statements about the former president, referring to Biden’s “severe mental decline,” “the Biden Crime Family”, and his “Radical Left handlers." Also read: Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’ "Sleepy Joe Biden was, by far, the worst President in American Hisntory. Taking office as a result of the most corrupt Election ever seen in the United States, Biden oversaw a series of unprecedented disasters that brought our Nation to the brink of destruction. His policies caused the highest Inflation ever recorded, leading teh US Dollar to lose more than 20 per cent of its value in 4 years," the plaque said. "His Afghanistan Disaster was among the most humiliating events in American History," the plaque said, noting the deaths of 13 U.S. service members during the 2021 withdrawal. "Seeing Biden’s devastating weakness, Russia invaded Ukraine, and Hamas terrorists launched the heinous October 7th attack on Israel," it said. Also read: WATCH: Pakistan PM crashes Putin-Erdogan meeting after waiting for Russian prez for 40 minutes. This is what happened next "Nicknamed both "Sleepy" and "Crooked," Joe Biden was dominated by his Radical Left handlers....But depite it all, resident Trump would get Re-Elected in a Landslide, and SAVE AMERCA!" the plaque said.

The plaque has some derisive statements about the former president, referring to Biden’s “severe mental decline,” “the Biden Crime Family”, and his “Radical Left handlers."&nbsp;&nbsp;

‘Sleepy, crooked Joe’: WH plaque mocks former US president Joe Biden, calls him ‘worst president in American history’

In an official response to the lawsuit filed by relatives of the victims, the US government admitted on Wednesday it was partially at fault and that the Federal Aviation Administration and the army played a role in causing the collision in January between an airliner and a Black Hawk helicopter near the nation’s capital, killing 67 people in the deadliest crash on American soil in over two decades.&nbsp;The official response said the government is liable in the crash partly because the air traffic controller violated procedures about when to rely on pilots to maintain visual separation that night. Besides, the army helicopter pilots’ “failure to maintain vigilance so as to see and avoid” the airline jet also makes the government liable.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-are-doctor-death-french-anaesthetist-who-poisoned-12-patients-to-death-jailed-for-life-1766051562239">‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life</a>&nbsp;But the filing suggested that others, including the pilots of the jet and the airlines, may also have played a role. The lawsuit also blamed American Airlines and its regional partner, PSA Airlines, for roles in the crash, but both carriers have filed motions seeking dismissal.&nbsp;About 28 bodies were pulled from the icy waters of the Potomac River after the helicopter apparently flew into the path of the American Airlines regional jet while it was landing at the Ronald Reagan airport in northern Virginia, just across the river from Washington, DC. The plane carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while three soldiers were aboard the helicopter.Robert Clifford, an attorney for the family of victim Casey Crafton, said the government admitted “the Army’s responsibility for the needless loss of life” and the FAA’s failure to follow air traffic control procedures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-injured-on-way-to-hospital-after-heart-attack-dies-on-bengaluru-streets-family-donates-eyes-1765975341000">‘Pleaded for help, humanity failed’: Man injured on way to hospital after heart attack dies on Bengaluru streets; family donates eyes</a>&nbsp;The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will release its report on the cause of the crash early next year, but investigators have highlighted the factors that contributed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Investigators have said the helicopter pilots might not have realized how high they were because the barometric altimeter they were relying on was reading 80 to 100 feet (24 to 30 metres) lower than the altitude registered by the flight data recorder.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-shares-video-of-tmc-mp-kirti-azad-vaping-in-parliament-demands-action-for-use-of-banned-substance-1765993659371">BJP shares video of TMC MP Kirti Azad ‘vaping’ in Parliament, demands action for use of banned substance</a>&nbsp;The crash victims included a group of elite young figure skaters, their parents and coaches who had just attended a competition in Wichita, Kansas.&nbsp;The National Transportation Safety Board hearing is scheduled for January 26.&nbsp;

About 28 bodies were pulled from the icy waters of the Potomac River after the helicopter apparently flew into the path of the American Airlines regional jet while it was landing at the Ronald Reagan airport in northern Virginia, just across the river from Washington, DC.

In an official response to the lawsuit filed by relatives of the victims, the US government admitted on Wednesday it was partially at fault and that the Federal Aviation Administration and the army played a role in causing the collision in January between an airliner and a Black Hawk helicopter near the nation’s capital, killing 67 people in the deadliest crash on American soil in over two decades. The official response said the government is liable in the crash partly because the air traffic controller violated procedures about when to rely on pilots to maintain visual separation that night. Besides, the army helicopter pilots’ “failure to maintain vigilance so as to see and avoid” the airline jet also makes the government liable. Also Read: ‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life But the filing suggested that others, including the pilots of the jet and the airlines, may also have played a role. The lawsuit also blamed American Airlines and its regional partner, PSA Airlines, for roles in the crash, but both carriers have filed motions seeking dismissal. About 28 bodies were pulled from the icy waters of the Potomac River after the helicopter apparently flew into the path of the American Airlines regional jet while it was landing at the Ronald Reagan airport in northern Virginia, just across the river from Washington, DC. The plane carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while three soldiers were aboard the helicopter. Robert Clifford, an attorney for the family of victim Casey Crafton, said the government admitted “the Army’s responsibility for the needless loss of life” and the FAA’s failure to follow air traffic control procedures. Also Read: ‘Pleaded for help, humanity failed’: Man injured on way to hospital after heart attack dies on Bengaluru streets; family donates eyes The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will release its report on the cause of the crash early next year, but investigators have highlighted the factors that contributed. Investigators have said the helicopter pilots might not have realized how high they were because the barometric altimeter they were relying on was reading 80 to 100 feet (24 to 30 metres) lower than the altitude registered by the flight data recorder. Also Read: BJP shares video of TMC MP Kirti Azad ‘vaping’ in Parliament, demands action for use of banned substance The crash victims included a group of elite young figure skaters, their parents and coaches who had just attended a competition in Wichita, Kansas. The National Transportation Safety Board hearing is scheduled for January 26.

About 28 bodies were pulled from the icy waters of the Potomac River after the helicopter apparently flew into the path of the American Airlines regional jet while it was landing at the Ronald Reagan airport in northern Virginia, just across the river from Washington, DC.

US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington

Australia's Bondi Beach shooters reportedly holed themselves up in a Philippines hotel for weeks during their visit to the country, ahead of the terror attack in Sydney. The father-and-son duo - Sajid Akram and Naveed - also left a tip on their way out. They checked into room 315 of the GV Hotel the same day, paying 930 pesos (about $16) per night for the small room with two single beds. The revelation comes even as Philippines said that there is no evidence to suggest that the attackers received ISIS training in Philippines.&nbsp;&nbsp;News agency AFP quoting hotel staff said that the men only left their room for an hour or so each day and largely kept to themselves. "They weren't approachable like other foreigners. Other foreigners usually chat with me, but they didn't," night desk manager Angelica Ytang said, adding her only interactions were with Naveed, while the father "always looked down" and avoided eye contact.&nbsp;Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-evidence-of-isis-terrorist-training-philippines-rejects-australia-s-bondi-beach-probe-findings-about-gunmen-1765956496597">Philippines said that there was no evidence </a>that the country was being used for terrorist training and that the revelations made Australian authorities is “misleading characterisation." "President Ferdinand Marcos strongly rejects the sweeping statement and the misleading characterisation of the Philippines as the ISIS training hotspot," presidential spokeswoman Claire Castro said at a press briefing.&nbsp;Highlighting that island of Mindanao in Davao has a long history of Islamist insurgencies, Australian authorities stated that both Sajid and Naveed had travelled to Philippines and entered the country on November 1. On these &nbsp;claims, Philippine military stated that armed groups had been largely degraded in the years since the siege of Marawi. "We have not recorded any major terrorist operations or training activities… since the beginning of 2024," Philippine military spokeswoman Colonel Francel Padilla said. "They are fragmented, and they have no leadership," she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-nationals-links-to-islamic-state-what-we-know-about-bondi-beach-shooters-sajid-and-naveed-akram-1765765119824">Islamic State links? What we know about Bondi beach shooters Sajid and Naveed Akram</a><h2>What we know about Australia's probe so far?</h2>The Australian Police arrested Naveed from the scene of the attack and Sajid Akram was killed during the shooting. Naveed has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder and a litany of other crimes. The incident is being investigated as an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community. Highlighting that island of Mindanao in Davao has a long history of Islamist insurgencies, Australian authorities stated that both Sajid and Naveed had travelled to Philippines and entered the country on November 1. They also revealed that at least two Islamic State flags were found in their car.&nbsp;Moreover, it has also came to light that Sajid Akram is originally from Hyderabad, India, and migrated to Australia in November 1998. In a statement, India's Telangana police said that Akram’s family in Hyderabad had no knowledge of his “radical mindset" and he visited India only six times in the 27 years since he moved to Australia. Indian police have reassured that they are fully cooperating with Australian authorities and other relevant agencies on the matter.

Australian police say Bondi Beach attackers Sajid and Naveed Akram stayed weeks in a cheap Philippines hotel before the Sydney terror attack. Manila denies ISIS training links. Naveed is charged with terrorism and murder; Sajid was killed.

Australia's Bondi Beach shooters reportedly holed themselves up in a Philippines hotel for weeks during their visit to the country, ahead of the terror attack in Sydney. The father-and-son duo - Sajid Akram and Naveed - also left a tip on their way out. They checked into room 315 of the GV Hotel the same day, paying 930 pesos (about $16) per night for the small room with two single beds. The revelation comes even as Philippines said that there is no evidence to suggest that the attackers received ISIS training in Philippines. News agency AFP quoting hotel staff said that the men only left their room for an hour or so each day and largely kept to themselves. "They weren't approachable like other foreigners. Other foreigners usually chat with me, but they didn't," night desk manager Angelica Ytang said, adding her only interactions were with Naveed, while the father "always looked down" and avoided eye contact. Meanwhile, Philippines said that there was no evidence that the country was being used for terrorist training and that the revelations made Australian authorities is “misleading characterisation." "President Ferdinand Marcos strongly rejects the sweeping statement and the misleading characterisation of the Philippines as the ISIS training hotspot," presidential spokeswoman Claire Castro said at a press briefing. Highlighting that island of Mindanao in Davao has a long history of Islamist insurgencies, Australian authorities stated that both Sajid and Naveed had travelled to Philippines and entered the country on November 1. On these claims, Philippine military stated that armed groups had been largely degraded in the years since the siege of Marawi. "We have not recorded any major terrorist operations or training activities… since the beginning of 2024," Philippine military spokeswoman Colonel Francel Padilla said. "They are fragmented, and they have no leadership," she added. Also Read: Islamic State links? What we know about Bondi beach shooters Sajid and Naveed Akram What we know about Australia's probe so far? The Australian Police arrested Naveed from the scene of the attack and Sajid Akram was killed during the shooting. Naveed has been charged with terrorism, 15 counts of murder and a litany of other crimes. The incident is being investigated as an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community. Highlighting that island of Mindanao in Davao has a long history of Islamist insurgencies, Australian authorities stated that both Sajid and Naveed had travelled to Philippines and entered the country on November 1. They also revealed that at least two Islamic State flags were found in their car. Moreover, it has also came to light that Sajid Akram is originally from Hyderabad, India, and migrated to Australia in November 1998. In a statement, India's Telangana police said that Akram’s family in Hyderabad had no knowledge of his “radical mindset" and he visited India only six times in the 27 years since he moved to Australia. Indian police have reassured that they are fully cooperating with Australian authorities and other relevant agencies on the matter.

Australian police say Bondi Beach attackers Sajid and Naveed Akram stayed weeks in a cheap Philippines hotel before the Sydney terror attack. Manila denies ISIS training links. Naveed is charged with terrorism and murder; Sajid was killed.&nbsp;

Australia's Bondi Beach gunmen stayed in room 315 during Philippines visit: Hotel staff revealed they...

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Thursday conferred with the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s uniquely distinct civilian honour, by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for his contributions to strengthening bilateral ties. Prime Minister Modi received the award during his ongoing two-day visit to Oman, the final leg of his three-nation tour that also included Jordan and Ethiopia. The Order of Oman is the latest addition to PM Modi’s distinguished list of over 28 highest civilian awards from foreign nations, including recent honours such as Ethiopia’s Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia and Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> conferred with Oman’s highest honour, the &#39;Order of Oman&#39;.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Indemb_Muscat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indemb_Muscat</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModiInOman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModiInOman</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZrnUItMNUD">pic.twitter.com/ZrnUItMNUD</a>&mdash; All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/2001603089900716157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 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/us-govt-admits-laxity-in-helicopter-plane-collision-that-killed-67-in-washington-1766059461973">US govt admits laxity in helicopter-plane collision that killed 67 in Washington&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;Besides, India signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman on Thursday during PM Modi’s visit. The pact will significantly strengthen New Delhi’s economic engagement with the Gulf region and reinforce its broader trade diversification strategy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India and Oman sign the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CEPA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CEPA</a>) in the presence of Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said in Muscat. 🌟𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬🌟: ▪️The deal provides India with unprecedented market access, offering… <a href="https://t.co/EBlZm3kDvB">pic.twitter.com/EBlZm3kDvB</a>&mdash; All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/2001610199011148204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-are-doctor-death-french-anaesthetist-who-poisoned-12-patients-to-death-jailed-for-life-1766051562239">‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life</a>&nbsp;It is Oman’s second free-trade agreement with an individual country and the first in nearly two decades. The agreement would expand India’s presence in the strategically important Gulf market, which plays a critical role in energy security, remittances, logistics and regional trade flows.&nbsp;The agreement will improve market access for goods and services, promote two-way investments, and enhance cooperation across key sector, besides supporting trade diversification and supply chain resilience amid global economic realignment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-s-manufacturing-is-declining-rahul-gandhi-s-remark-in-germany-sparks-row-1765987924685">‘India’s manufacturing is declining’: Rahul Gandhi’s remark in Germany sparks row</a>&nbsp;PM Modi also addressed the India–Oman Business Forum and highlighted the centuries-old maritime trading ties between the two countries, from Mandvi to Muscat, which today form the bedrock of vibrant commercial exchanges. He noted that 70 years of diplomatic relations represent the trust and friendship built over centuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Modi called upon the business leaders to realize the full potential of the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership (CEPA), which he described as the blueprint for India-Oman's shared future. He underscored that CEPA would infuse new energy in bilateral trade and investment ties and create opportunities for mutual growth, innovation, and employment.

India also signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman on Thursday during PM Modi’s visit. The pact will significantly strengthen New Delhi’s economic engagement with the Gulf region and reinforce its broader trade diversification strategy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Thursday conferred with the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s uniquely distinct civilian honour, by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for his contributions to strengthening bilateral ties. Prime Minister Modi received the award during his ongoing two-day visit to Oman, the final leg of his three-nation tour that also included Jordan and Ethiopia. The Order of Oman is the latest addition to PM Modi’s distinguished list of over 28 highest civilian awards from foreign nations, including recent honours such as Ethiopia’s Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia and Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer.

India also signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman on Thursday during PM Modi’s visit. The pact will significantly strengthen New Delhi’s economic engagement with the Gulf region and reinforce its broader trade diversification strategy.

PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement

On the &nbsp;Rabindranath Tagore Beach of the Karwar coastline of Karnataka, authorities had recovered a migratory seagull on Tuesday. The seagull was equipped with a Chinese GPS tracker. The coastline is situated approximately 25 km from the INS Kadamba naval base. The Coastal Marine Police handed over the bird to the forest department officials. The bird had a GPS &nbsp;and solar unit, with a note on it directing where the tracking device came from. It belonged to the Chinese Academy of Sciences.<h2>Was it really a science project or an espionage tactic?&nbsp;</h2>The device recovered from the seagulls was sent for technical analysis. Initial assessment points that the bird was being used to study migratory patterns.&nbsp;"Several angles are being examined, including whether the bird was part of a scientific research project to study migratory patterns," said Uttara Kananda, Superintendent of Police Deepan MN, as quoted by the NDTV.The GPS tracker found on the seagull indicates that the bird flew over 10,000 km, including over the Arctic region, before reaching the coast of Karnataka. However, this has alerted the strategically important Naval base of INS Kadamba. It is at the centre of the Project Seabird, the largest naval infrastructure project of India. It is home to the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya and sits just outside the striking range of Pakistan. It is no secret that China has been asserting influence on the Indo-Pacific with different tactics, such as military modernisation and development of ports in the Indian Ocean, called the "String of Pearls" strategy of China. This is not the first instance; last year, in November 2024, another War Eagle was spotted near the Baithkol port in Karwar, which was found to be part of a wildlife research.“At present, it appears to be part of a migratory bird research study. We will confirm the findings after detailed verification,” said an official aware of the issue to PTI.

A Chinese GPS-tagged migratory seagull was found near INS Kadamba in Karnataka. Authorities probe whether it was scientific research or espionage.

On the Rabindranath Tagore Beach of the Karwar coastline of Karnataka, authorities had recovered a migratory seagull on Tuesday. The seagull was equipped with a Chinese GPS tracker. The coastline is situated approximately 25 km from the INS Kadamba naval base. The Coastal Marine Police handed over the bird to the forest department officials. The bird had a GPS and solar unit, with a note on it directing where the tracking device came from. It belonged to the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Was it really a science project or an espionage tactic? The device recovered from the seagulls was sent for technical analysis. Initial assessment points that the bird was being used to study migratory patterns. "Several angles are being examined, including whether the bird was part of a scientific research project to study migratory patterns," said Uttara Kananda, Superintendent of Police Deepan MN, as quoted by the NDTV. The GPS tracker found on the seagull indicates that the bird flew over 10,000 km, including over the Arctic region, before reaching the coast of Karnataka. However, this has alerted the strategically important Naval base of INS Kadamba. It is at the centre of the Project Seabird, the largest naval infrastructure project of India. It is home to the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya and sits just outside the striking range of Pakistan. It is no secret that China has been asserting influence on the Indo-Pacific with different tactics, such as military modernisation and development of ports in the Indian Ocean, called the "String of Pearls" strategy of China. This is not the first instance; last year, in November 2024, another War Eagle was spotted near the Baithkol port in Karwar, which was found to be part of a wildlife research. “At present, it appears to be part of a migratory bird research study. We will confirm the findings after detailed verification,” said an official aware of the issue to PTI.

A Chinese GPS-tagged migratory seagull was found near INS Kadamba in Karnataka. Authorities probe whether it was scientific research or espionage.

Why was a migratory seagull with Chinese GPS tracker found on Karnataka coast

Thailand-Cambodia crisis has been continuing for more than two weeks with Thailand’s military now bombing the casino hub of Poipet and Thailand leaders saying that Cambodia should announce the truce first

Thailand-Cambodia conflict: China offers mediation as bombing continues despite Trump's ceasefire claims - What's latest

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s new profile picture on the social media platform X has gone viral, drawing widespread attention and social media reaction. The image, taken from a recent Vanity Fair photo shoot, shows Rubio standing alone in a corner, head slightly bowed in front of the lamp and hands by his side. This pose in the photo quickly turned into memes and humorous commentary online.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewProfilePic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewProfilePic</a> <a href="https://t.co/EEhMfxNUB6">pic.twitter.com/EEhMfxNUB6</a>&mdash; Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) <a href="https://twitter.com/marcorubio/status/2001493318384169125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After the post went viral, the internet’s eye went awkward, prompting memes about Rubio: “Who put Marco Rubio in the naughty corner?” Many social media users shared edited versions of the picture alongside playful captions, underlining how even official images of political figures can take on unexpected life in meme culture.<h3>Netizens react to the viral post</h3>Several users came up with mixed opinions and different memes related to the post. One of the users said,"Narrator: Marco Rubio seen bowing to a lamp because it's brighter than him."&nbsp;The next said,"Marco Rubio realizing he now has to become the new FBI Deputy Director."&nbsp;"The lamp is brighter than Marco’s chances of ever becoming president and it’s not even trying," another added.&nbsp;The next said,"I REALLY like this picture of you, Sec. Rubio. It carries tremendous gravitas and conveys the enormous burden of your position. No, it isn't a pretty picture. It's a hard picture. Hard as hell."&nbsp;Another added, "Well played and great sense of humor! This is the way to handle attacks. You’ve been an outstanding Secretary of State and we appreciate you."&nbsp;The next also said,"They made you do this didn’t they. They said all the GPs have to post so now we get this."&nbsp;"Wtf does this mean? Something’s off tonight. Are you starting a war with Venezuela?" a user said in a post.

Many social media users shared edited versions of the picture alongside playful captions, underlining how even official images of political figures can take on unexpected life in meme culture.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s new profile picture on the social media platform X has gone viral, drawing widespread attention and social media reaction. The image, taken from a recent Vanity Fair photo shoot, shows Rubio standing alone in a corner, head slightly bowed in front of the lamp and hands by his side. This pose in the photo quickly turned into memes and humorous commentary online.

Many social media users shared edited versions of the picture alongside playful captions, underlining how even official images of political figures can take on unexpected life in meme culture.

'Who put Marco Rubio in corner?': US Secretary of State’s new profile pic goes viral, netizens turn it into memes

A French anaesthetist has been jailed for life for intentionally poisoning 30 patients between the ages of four and 89, 12 of whom died after a court in the city of Besançon in eastern France found Frédéric Péchier guilty of contaminating infusion bags with substances that caused cardiac arrest or hemorrhaging. His youngest victim, a four-year-old child, survived two cardiac arrests during a routine tonsil surgery in 2016. The oldest victim was 89. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-closes-visa-application-centre-in-dhaka-after-threats-from-radical-leaders-in-bangladesh-1765980439337">India closes visa application centre in Dhaka after threats from radical leaders in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;Frédéric Péchier, 53, worked at two clinics in the eastern city of Besançon, and was previously considered a “star anaesthetist” by some colleagues till he was accused of triggering heart attacks in patients so he could show off his resuscitation skills and discredit co-workers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-injured-on-way-to-hospital-after-heart-attack-dies-on-bengaluru-streets-family-donates-eyes-1765975341000">‘Pleaded for help, humanity failed’: Man injured on way to hospital after heart attack dies on Bengaluru streets; family donates eyes</a>&nbsp;“You are Doctor Death, a poisoner, a murderer. You bring shame on all doctors,” said prosecutors last week. “You have turned this clinic into a graveyard.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-shares-video-of-tmc-mp-kirti-azad-vaping-in-parliament-demands-action-for-use-of-banned-substance-1765993659371">BJP shares video of TMC MP Kirti Azad ‘vaping’ in Parliament, demands action for use of banned substance</a>&nbsp;Péchier was placed under investigation eight years ago, when he was suspected of poisoning patients at two clinics in Besançon between 2008 and 2017.&nbsp;Péchier, who spent the 15 weeks of the trial at liberty under judicial supervision, will spend a minimum of 22 years behind bars.He has always denied any wrongdoing. “I have said it before and I’ll say it again: I am not a poisoner... I have always upheld the Hippocratic oath,” he stated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-s-manufacturing-is-declining-rahul-gandhi-s-remark-in-germany-sparks-row-1765987924685">‘India’s manufacturing is declining’: Rahul Gandhi’s remark in Germany sparks row</a>&nbsp;Péchier now has 10 days to lodge an appeal, which would entail a second trial within a year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Frédéric Péchier, 53, worked at two clinics in the eastern city of Besançon, and was previously considered a “star anaesthetist” by some colleagues till he was accused of triggering heart attacks in patients so he could show off his resuscitation skills and discredit co-workers.

A French anaesthetist has been jailed for life for intentionally poisoning 30 patients between the ages of four and 89, 12 of whom died after a court in the city of Besançon in eastern France found Frédéric Péchier guilty of contaminating infusion bags with substances that caused cardiac arrest or hemorrhaging. His youngest victim, a four-year-old child, survived two cardiac arrests during a routine tonsil surgery in 2016. The oldest victim was 89. Also Read: India closes visa application centre in Dhaka after threats from radical leaders in Bangladesh Frédéric Péchier, 53, worked at two clinics in the eastern city of Besançon, and was previously considered a “star anaesthetist” by some colleagues till he was accused of triggering heart attacks in patients so he could show off his resuscitation skills and discredit co-workers. Also Read: ‘Pleaded for help, humanity failed’: Man injured on way to hospital after heart attack dies on Bengaluru streets; family donates eyes “You are Doctor Death, a poisoner, a murderer. You bring shame on all doctors,” said prosecutors last week. “You have turned this clinic into a graveyard.” Also Read: BJP shares video of TMC MP Kirti Azad ‘vaping’ in Parliament, demands action for use of banned substance Péchier was placed under investigation eight years ago, when he was suspected of poisoning patients at two clinics in Besançon between 2008 and 2017. Péchier, who spent the 15 weeks of the trial at liberty under judicial supervision, will spend a minimum of 22 years behind bars. He has always denied any wrongdoing. “I have said it before and I’ll say it again: I am not a poisoner... I have always upheld the Hippocratic oath,” he stated. Also Read: ‘India’s manufacturing is declining’: Rahul Gandhi’s remark in Germany sparks row Péchier now has 10 days to lodge an appeal, which would entail a second trial within a year.

Frédéric Péchier, 53, worked at two clinics in the eastern city of Besançon, and was previously considered a “star anaesthetist” by some colleagues till he was accused of triggering heart attacks in patients so he could show off his resuscitation skills and discredit co-workers.

‘You are Doctor Death’: French anaesthetist who poisoned 12 patients to death jailed for life

The Indian movie Dhurandhar has been garnering eyeballs for its power-packed action scenes and music tracks. But with that, the movie draws attention for its India-Pakistan espionage backdrop. Many in neighbouring Pakistan have expressed discontent over the portrayal of characters and have also claimed that the movie’s approach is inaccurate or lacks factual backing. And with politicians of the country expressing such strong opinions, the latest viral video featured a song from the movie being used at an event attended by&nbsp;Bilawal Bhutto in Pakistan. In Dhurandhar, the song was&nbsp;picturised on&nbsp;Abdul Rehman Baloch, alias Rehman Dakait, a slain mafia gang leader.&nbsp;Though the song ‘FA9LA’ used in the movie is an original creation by Bahraini rapper Flipperachi, released in May 2024, and adapted for the film. After the entire hullabaloo over the fictional movie woven around true events, the song selected added to the controversy.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Chupana bhi nhi aata,Jatana bhi nhi aata -This is the case of Dhurandhar among the Pak fans Song of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhurandhar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhurandhar</a> is being played in an event where Bilawal Bhutto ( his mother was an ally of Rehman Dakait ) was present.They are liking it but cant accept it <a href="https://t.co/9TXCi6wBFf">pic.twitter.com/9TXCi6wBFf</a>&mdash; Cover Drive (@day6596) <a href="https://twitter.com/day6596/status/2001520627833016685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

With politicians of the country expressing such strong opinions, the latest viral video featured a song from the movie being used at an event attended byBilawal Bhutto in Pakistan.

The Indian movie Dhurandhar has been garnering eyeballs for its power-packed action scenes and music tracks. But with that, the movie draws attention for its India-Pakistan espionage backdrop. Many in neighbouring Pakistan have expressed discontent over the portrayal of characters and have also claimed that the movie’s approach is inaccurate or lacks factual backing. And with politicians of the country expressing such strong opinions, the latest viral video featured a song from the movie being used at an event attended by Bilawal Bhutto in Pakistan. In Dhurandhar, the song was picturised on Abdul Rehman Baloch, alias Rehman Dakait, a slain mafia gang leader. Though the song ‘FA9LA’ used in the movie is an original creation by Bahraini rapper Flipperachi, released in May 2024, and adapted for the film. After the entire hullabaloo over the fictional movie woven around true events, the song selected added to the controversy.

With politicians of the country expressing such strong opinions, the latest viral video featured a song from the movie being used at an event attended by&nbsp;Bilawal Bhutto in Pakistan.

WATCH: After banning 'Dhurandhar', Pakistan plays viral song at event attended by Bilawal Bhutto

There have been several Gen Z protests across the world in 2025, but the most prominent one in South Asia happened in Nepal. In a year marked by political upheaval, &nbsp;the Himalayan nation’s Gen Z protests were not only about the incumbent government, but also a reflection of youth frustration with established parties and leaders. “Nepo kids” and other members of the same generation were at odds in a country rife with corruption and governance failures. Here is a roundup of how Nepal changed in 2025.<h2>Gen Z protests: Youth say enough is enough</h2>Weeks of often violent protests led to the collapse of the Oli government of the CPN-UML. An interim administration took its place and preparations are on for a fresh election in which new parties and youth are expected to play a key role.The seeds of this change were sown in the early months of 2025, with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli facing criticism over corruption scandals and Nepal’s economic woes. There were long-standing frustrations over governance failures, economic stagnation, unemployment, and scandals like the Pokhara airport contract.In spite of some policy moves aimed at addressing corruption, economic growth and infrastructure, no tangible changes were seen for months.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-infiltration-took-place-kp-oli-alleges-conspiracy-behind-nepal-protests-questions-automatic-weapons-used-1758279122146">‘Infiltration took place’: KP Oli alleges conspiracy behind Nepal protests, questions automatic weapons used</a><h2>Social media ban triggers Gen Z protest</h2>Gen Z, which used social media to share its anger, was triggered when the government banned 26 apps, including Facebook and Instagram on 4 September 2025. This was seen as a move to curb free speech and dissent and to silence criticism of nepotism and privileges enjoyed by the political, bureaucratic and military elite.Particularly on September 8–9, mass demonstrations, pitched street battles and even gun violence were reported. Several government buildings were either vandalised or set on fire, including Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Office. Protesters clashed with security forces, leading to at least 51 deaths according to some reports, including protesters and police. The army was briefly deployed amid the widespread destruction.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-s-kp-sharma-oli-seeks-third-term-amid-youth-support-surge-1765980237066/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-s-kp-sharma-oli-seeks-third-term-amid-youth-support-surge-1765980237066/embed</a><h2>A change of guard: Nepal gets first woman prime minister</h2>On September 9, Prime Minister Oli resigned along with several ministers, and former chief justice Sushila Karki took over as the first female prime minister of Nepal to lead an interim government.&nbsp;Her selection was unique: it involved an online youth vote through the Discord platform, as well as discussions with the army, protesters and President Ramchandra Paudel.The social media ban was subsequently lifted. &nbsp;Nepal’s Parliament was dissolved, and elections are scheduled for 5 March 2026.The interim government is investigating corruption even as it restores order and prepares for the elections. However, there is already criticism, as traditional parties like the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML are terming the processes unconstitutional.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/yearender-2025-from-nepal-to-madagascar-how-gen-z-took-to-streets-to-protest-against-governments-1765784385043">Fire, tear-gas, graffiti and more: From Nepal to Madagascar, how Gen Z protests shook governments | YEARENDER 2025</a><h2>Traditional parties are not leaving ground</h2>The Nepali government estimated that the GenZ protests caused losses of nearly 586 million US dollars. Traditional parties are slowly recovering after the shock of the protests. The CPN-UML held its 11th general convention in December, and was addressed by Oli who is seeking re-election despite internal challenges. Meanwhile, several leftist parties merged into the Nepali Communist Party in November, led by former Maoist leader-turned prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) and Madhav Kumar Nepal. They are setting aside differences in order to consolidate votes and emerge victorious in the 2026 general elections.In spite of the optimism, it remains to be seen if the unprecedented youth activism will bring about long-lasting change in Nepal.&nbsp;Will next year’s elections bring back the old political guard or herald a new generation of leadership?

The main event of Nepal in 2025 was the Gen Z protests, but it has been in the making for months before erupting in September. The protest, triggered by a social media ban led to PM Oli’s resignation. Here is a recap of the key events in Nepal's pivotal year

There have been several Gen Z protests across the world in 2025, but the most prominent one in South Asia happened in Nepal. In a year marked by political upheaval, the Himalayan nation’s Gen Z protests were not only about the incumbent government, but also a reflection of youth frustration with established parties and leaders. “Nepo kids” and other members of the same generation were at odds in a country rife with corruption and governance failures. Here is a roundup of how Nepal changed in 2025. Gen Z protests: Youth say enough is enough Weeks of often violent protests led to the collapse of the Oli government of the CPN-UML. An interim administration took its place and preparations are on for a fresh election in which new parties and youth are expected to play a key role. The seeds of this change were sown in the early months of 2025, with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli facing criticism over corruption scandals and Nepal’s economic woes. There were long-standing frustrations over governance failures, economic stagnation, unemployment, and scandals like the Pokhara airport contract. In spite of some policy moves aimed at addressing corruption, economic growth and infrastructure, no tangible changes were seen for months. Also read: ‘Infiltration took place’: KP Oli alleges conspiracy behind Nepal protests, questions automatic weapons used Social media ban triggers Gen Z protest Gen Z, which used social media to share its anger, was triggered when the government banned 26 apps, including Facebook and Instagram on 4 September 2025. This was seen as a move to curb free speech and dissent and to silence criticism of nepotism and privileges enjoyed by the political, bureaucratic and military elite. Particularly on September 8–9, mass demonstrations, pitched street battles and even gun violence were reported. Several government buildings were either vandalised or set on fire, including Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Office. Protesters clashed with security forces, leading to at least 51 deaths according to some reports, including protesters and police. The army was briefly deployed amid the widespread destruction. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-s-kp-sharma-oli-seeks-third-term-amid-youth-support-surge-1765980237066/embed A change of guard: Nepal gets first woman prime minister On September 9, Prime Minister Oli resigned along with several ministers, and former chief justice Sushila Karki took over as the first female prime minister of Nepal to lead an interim government. Her selection was unique: it involved an online youth vote through the Discord platform, as well as discussions with the army, protesters and President Ramchandra Paudel. The social media ban was subsequently lifted. Nepal’s Parliament was dissolved, and elections are scheduled for 5 March 2026. The interim government is investigating corruption even as it restores order and prepares for the elections. However, there is already criticism, as traditional parties like the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML are terming the processes unconstitutional. Also read: Fire, tear-gas, graffiti and more: From Nepal to Madagascar, how Gen Z protests shook governments | YEARENDER 2025 Traditional parties are not leaving ground The Nepali government estimated that the GenZ protests caused losses of nearly 586 million US dollars. Traditional parties are slowly recovering after the shock of the protests. The CPN-UML held its 11th general convention in December, and was addressed by Oli who is seeking re-election despite internal challenges. Meanwhile, several leftist parties merged into the Nepali Communist Party in November, led by former Maoist leader-turned prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) and Madhav Kumar Nepal. They are setting aside differences in order to consolidate votes and emerge victorious in the 2026 general elections. In spite of the optimism, it remains to be seen if the unprecedented youth activism will bring about long-lasting change in Nepal. Will next year’s elections bring back the old political guard or herald a new generation of leadership?

The main event of Nepal in 2025 was the Gen Z protests, but it has been in the making for months before erupting in September. The protest, triggered by a social media ban, led to PM Oli’s resignation. Here is a recap of the key events in Nepal's pivotal year

Year-Ender: Nepal politics saw a tectonic shift after Gen Z protests of 2025

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After banning 'Dhurandhar', Pakistan plays viral song at Bhutto's event - WATCH

Year-Ender 2025 in Nepal: When GenZ moved ground to force a change