National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 2) hailed the meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping as "great one". He said that the meeting "will lead to everlasting peace and success" between both the countries. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "My G2 meeting with President Xi of China was a great one for both of our countries. This meeting will lead to everlasting peace and success. God bless both China and the USA!"&nbsp;The US President during his meeting with President Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Busan, South Korea on October 30 &nbsp;announced a trade and economic deal with China and agreed to suspend retaliatory measures in terms of trade tariffs taken over the past six months.US tariffs on Chinese imports were slashed from 57 per cent to 47 per cent in a landmark one-year trade pact after China agreed to take "strong action" on the fentanyl issue.&nbsp;"We reduced it by the fentanyl because I believe they are really taking strong action. We've already seen the action on fentanyl, and they're taking very strong action. So reduced to 10 per cent," said Trump.&nbsp;As Trump boarded the &nbsp;Air Force One, after the summit the US President said "We have a deal," referring to the trade pact.&nbsp;"Every year we'll renegotiate the deal, but I think the deal will go on for a long time, long beyond the year. We'll negotiate at the end of the year," he added.&nbsp;Trump also announced that China has agreed to immediately purchase "large and tremendous amounts" of soybeans and other US farm products under the new pact.&nbsp;"We're in agreement on so many elements. Large amounts, tremendous amounts of the soybeans and other farm products are going to be purchased, starting immediately," said Trump.&nbsp;

Both US and China announced a trade and economic deal with China and agreed to suspend retaliatory measures in terms of trade tariffs taken over the past six months.

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 2) hailed the meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping as "great one". He said that the meeting "will lead to everlasting peace and success" between both the countries. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "My G2 meeting with President Xi of China was a great one for both of our countries. This meeting will lead to everlasting peace and success. God bless both China and the USA!" The US President during his meeting with President Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Busan, South Korea on October 30 announced a trade and economic deal with China and agreed to suspend retaliatory measures in terms of trade tariffs taken over the past six months. US tariffs on Chinese imports were slashed from 57 per cent to 47 per cent in a landmark one-year trade pact after China agreed to take "strong action" on the fentanyl issue. "We reduced it by the fentanyl because I believe they are really taking strong action. We've already seen the action on fentanyl, and they're taking very strong action. So reduced to 10 per cent," said Trump. As Trump boarded the Air Force One, after the summit the US President said "We have a deal," referring to the trade pact. "Every year we'll renegotiate the deal, but I think the deal will go on for a long time, long beyond the year. We'll negotiate at the end of the year," he added. Trump also announced that China has agreed to immediately purchase "large and tremendous amounts" of soybeans and other US farm products under the new pact. "We're in agreement on so many elements. Large amounts, tremendous amounts of the soybeans and other farm products are going to be purchased, starting immediately," said Trump.

Both US and China announced a trade and economic deal with China and agreed to suspend retaliatory measures in terms of trade tariffs taken over the past six months.

Meeting with Xi will bring 'everlasting peace': US, China de-escalate trade tension, suspend retaliatory tariffs

All Souls Day 2025 is observed globally on November 2, a day on which a special prayer and remembrance for the souls of the faithful is done. This tradition is deeply rooted in the Christian religion, which stands as a central commemoration for honouring loved ones who have died. It also focuses on the spiritual belief in life after death and the hope for eternal peace.<h3>What is history, and its origin?</h3>With the formal institution, the tradition of All Souls Day dates back to the late 10th century of Christianity. November 2 was designated as All Souls Day by St. Odilo of Cluny, an abbot in France in 998 AD. It is devoted to praying for all souls, particularly those believed to be in purgatory.&nbsp;The tradition quickly spread throughout the Catholic Church and was later embraced by other Christian denominations. Falling just after All Saints’ Day on November 1, it represents a spiritual continuity, from honouring the saints in heaven to remembering all departed souls.&nbsp;Even today, the observance of All Souls’ Day preserves these long-standing customs, with families and church communities coming together for prayers, memorial masses, and acts of remembrance.&nbsp;Over time, the day has also intertwined with other cultural practices, such as Mexico’s Día de los Muertos, showcasing its global influence and adaptability. Rooted in both scripture and tradition, All Souls’ Day continues to offer comfort to the faithful through prayers and biblical reflections passed down through generations.<h3>How is All Souls’ Day is observed?</h3>A blend of solemn rituals and heartfelt remembrance marks All Souls’ Day.<ul><li>Churches hold special masses and services dedicated to all departed souls.</li><li>Families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves, light candles, and place flowers in memory of loved ones.</li><li>Traditional prayers are recited for the deceased, both within families and the wider faith community.</li><li>People share All Souls’ Day quotes through cards, messages, and online platforms.</li><li>In countries such as the Philippines (Undas), Poland, and Mexico, the day includes family gatherings and shared meals.</li><li>Acts of charity, including donations to the poor, are performed to honour the memory of the departed.</li><li>In modern times, online memorial posts, virtual prayer chains, and social media tributes using remembrance hashtags have become part of the observance.</li></ul>&nbsp;Across the world, All Souls’ Day 2025 is commemorated through a mix of traditional and contemporary customs, adding vibrancy and cultural depth to the remembrance.

Across the world, All Souls’ Day 2025 is commemorated through a mix of traditional and contemporary customs, adding vibrancy and cultural depth to the remembrance.

All Souls Day 2025 is observed globally on November 2, a day on which a special prayer and remembrance for the souls of the faithful is done. This tradition is deeply rooted in the Christian religion, which stands as a central commemoration for honouring loved ones who have died. It also focuses on the spiritual belief in life after death and the hope for eternal peace. What is history, and its origin? With the formal institution, the tradition of All Souls Day dates back to the late 10th century of Christianity. November 2 was designated as All Souls Day by St. Odilo of Cluny, an abbot in France in 998 AD. It is devoted to praying for all souls, particularly those believed to be in purgatory. The tradition quickly spread throughout the Catholic Church and was later embraced by other Christian denominations. Falling just after All Saints’ Day on November 1, it represents a spiritual continuity, from honouring the saints in heaven to remembering all departed souls. Even today, the observance of All Souls’ Day preserves these long-standing customs, with families and church communities coming together for prayers, memorial masses, and acts of remembrance. Over time, the day has also intertwined with other cultural practices, such as Mexico’s Día de los Muertos, showcasing its global influence and adaptability. Rooted in both scripture and tradition, All Souls’ Day continues to offer comfort to the faithful through prayers and biblical reflections passed down through generations. How is All Souls’ Day is observed? A blend of solemn rituals and heartfelt remembrance marks All Souls’ Day. Churches hold special masses and services dedicated to all departed souls. Families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves, light candles, and place flowers in memory of loved ones. Traditional prayers are recited for the deceased, both within families and the wider faith community. People share All Souls’ Day quotes through cards, messages, and online platforms. In countries such as the Philippines (Undas), Poland, and Mexico, the day includes family gatherings and shared meals. Acts of charity, including donations to the poor, are performed to honour the memory of the departed. In modern times, online memorial posts, virtual prayer chains, and social media tributes using remembrance hashtags have become part of the observance. Across the world, All Souls’ Day 2025 is commemorated through a mix of traditional and contemporary customs, adding vibrancy and cultural depth to the remembrance.

Across the world, All Souls’ Day 2025 is commemorated through a mix of traditional and contemporary customs, adding vibrancy and cultural depth to the remembrance.

All Souls’ Day 2025: Know the origin, significance, and modern-day observance

US President Donald Trump has threatened military action in Nigeria if the Nigerian government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.” &nbsp;Trump on Saturday asked the Defense Department to prepare for possible military action and immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria.&nbsp;Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the U.S.A. will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, “guns-a-blazing,” to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” the president said.&nbsp;“I am hereby instructing our Department of War to prepare for possible action. If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our CHERISHED Christians!”, he further added.<h2>Situation in Nigeria</h2>The US president’s comments come amid 'concerns' over religious violence and Christian persecution in Nigeria, which is sharply divided between a Muslim-majority north and a largely Christian south. Clashes between ethnic and religious groups are a frequent occurrence in the country with a population of 220 million, the largest in Africa.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-shares-pics-of-lincoln-bathroom-renovated-in-marble-and-gold-1761978907467">Trump shares pics of Lincoln bathroom renovated in marble and gold</a>&nbsp;Insurgent groups like Boko Haram have been trying to impose a version of Islamic rule that has led to killings on both sides.<h2>Nigerian President Responds</h2>Responding to Trump, the Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said that religious freedom and tolerance is core to Nigeria’s identity.&nbsp;“Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so,” Tinubu said, adding that “Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it.”

The US president’s comments come amid concerns over religious violence and Christian persecution in Nigeria, which is sharply divided between a Muslim-majority north and a largely Christian south.

US President Donald Trump has threatened military action in Nigeria if the Nigerian government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.” Trump on Saturday asked the Defense Department to prepare for possible military action and immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria. Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the U.S.A. will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, “guns-a-blazing,” to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” the president said. “I am hereby instructing our Department of War to prepare for possible action. If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our CHERISHED Christians!”, he further added. Situation in Nigeria The US president’s comments come amid 'concerns' over religious violence and Christian persecution in Nigeria, which is sharply divided between a Muslim-majority north and a largely Christian south. Clashes between ethnic and religious groups are a frequent occurrence in the country with a population of 220 million, the largest in Africa. Also Read: Trump shares pics of Lincoln bathroom renovated in marble and gold Insurgent groups like Boko Haram have been trying to impose a version of Islamic rule that has led to killings on both sides. Nigerian President Responds Responding to Trump, the Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said that religious freedom and tolerance is core to Nigeria’s identity. “Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so,” Tinubu said, adding that “Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it.”

The US president’s comments come amid 'concerns' over religious violence and Christian persecution in Nigeria, which is sharply divided between a Muslim-majority north and a largely Christian south.

'Wipe out the Islamic terrorists': Trump threatens military action in Nigeria over 'persecution' of Christians

A horrific stabbing attack on a London-bound train Saturday (Nov 1) night left ten people in hospital, nine of them with "life-threatening injuries", prompting a massive police response in the UK. Two suspects have been arrested for the horrific stabbing attack. Armed police and paramedics rushed to Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire after reports of a mass stabbing aboard a train travelling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross.<h2>Two suspects arrested</h2>Reports suggest that the train was stopped at the Cambridgeshire station around 7:40 pm local time, where officers quickly detained two suspects. Police have not yet confirmed a motive. "Ten people have been taken to the hospital following a multiple stabbing on a train in Cambridgeshire. Nine are believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries," British Transport Police said in a statement on X. Counter-terrorism units were also assisting the investigation, added the statement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-mark-carney-reveals-he-apologised-to-trump-after-reagan-ad-derails-trade-talks-1761980821163">Canada PM Mark Carney reveals he apologised to Trump after Reagan ad derails trade talks</a>Witnesses described scenes of chaos as passengers tried to flee. One told The Times they saw a man with a large knife and "blood everywhere". Another said people were being trampled as panic spread through the carriages. When the train finally stopped, the suspect was reportedly seen holding a knife on the platform before being tasered and restrained by police.<h2>'Appalling' attack</h2>Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack "appalling" and "deeply concerning", saying that his thoughts were with the victims. "My thanks go to the emergency services for their response," he said on X, urging people in the area to follow police advice. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that two people had been taken into custody. Their identities are yet to be made public. Cambridgeshire Mayor Paul Bristow said he was aware of "horrendous scenes" at the station and sent his "thoughts and prayers" to those affected.The East of England Ambulance Service said it mounted a "large-scale response," deploying ambulances, helicopters, and tactical teams. Train operator London North Eastern Railway (LNER) suspended services in the area, warning of "major disruption."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-country-has-banned-smoking-for-everyone-born-after-2007-even-tourists-1761991994246">THIS country has banned smoking for everyone born after 2007 — even tourists</a><h2>Knife crimes and the UK</h2>The attack adds to growing concern over knife violence in Britain. Despite strict gun laws, knife-related crimes have surged since 2011, according to government data. Just last week, the interior ministry revealed that nearly 60,000 blades have been seized or surrendered this year as part of a drive to halve knife crime within a decade. &nbsp;

A mass stabbing on a London-bound train has left ten people injured, nine critically. Armed police stormed Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire and arrested two suspects. 

A horrific stabbing attack on a London-bound train Saturday (Nov 1) night left ten people in hospital, nine of them with "life-threatening injuries", prompting a massive police response in the UK. Two suspects have been arrested for the horrific stabbing attack. Armed police and paramedics rushed to Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire after reports of a mass stabbing aboard a train travelling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross. Two suspects arrested Reports suggest that the train was stopped at the Cambridgeshire station around 7:40 pm local time, where officers quickly detained two suspects. Police have not yet confirmed a motive. "Ten people have been taken to the hospital following a multiple stabbing on a train in Cambridgeshire. Nine are believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries," British Transport Police said in a statement on X. Counter-terrorism units were also assisting the investigation, added the statement. Also read | Canada PM Mark Carney reveals he apologised to Trump after Reagan ad derails trade talks Witnesses described scenes of chaos as passengers tried to flee. One told The Times they saw a man with a large knife and "blood everywhere". Another said people were being trampled as panic spread through the carriages. When the train finally stopped, the suspect was reportedly seen holding a knife on the platform before being tasered and restrained by police. 'Appalling' attack Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack "appalling" and "deeply concerning", saying that his thoughts were with the victims. "My thanks go to the emergency services for their response," he said on X, urging people in the area to follow police advice. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that two people had been taken into custody. Their identities are yet to be made public. Cambridgeshire Mayor Paul Bristow said he was aware of "horrendous scenes" at the station and sent his "thoughts and prayers" to those affected. The East of England Ambulance Service said it mounted a "large-scale response," deploying ambulances, helicopters, and tactical teams. Train operator London North Eastern Railway (LNER) suspended services in the area, warning of "major disruption." Also read | THIS country has banned smoking for everyone born after 2007 — even tourists Knife crimes and the UK The attack adds to growing concern over knife violence in Britain. Despite strict gun laws, knife-related crimes have surged since 2011, according to government data. Just last week, the interior ministry revealed that nearly 60,000 blades have been seized or surrendered this year as part of a drive to halve knife crime within a decade.

A mass stabbing on a London-bound train has left ten people injured, nine critically. Armed police stormed Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire and arrested two suspects.&nbsp;

10 injured, 9 critical after mass stabbing on London-bound train; 2 arrested

New Delhi: India’s state-run shipbuilding company inked a pact this week that could extend its tech know-how far beyond the shores of India. Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), a Mini-Ratna state-owned shipyard under the Ministry of Defence, signed a memorandum of understanding with Dubai-based MCI World LLC, aiming to muscle into the lucrative ship-repair market of the Middle East and North Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;The agreement, unveiled amid the glitz of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, underscores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s blueprint to transform India’s shipyards into a global powerhouse, under the “Maritime Amrit Kaal” vision that eyes 2047 as the horizon for self-reliance and export dominance.&nbsp;IMW 2025, co-hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Indian Ports Association, drew a constellation of heavyweights: Over 100 international exhibitors, from port czars to tech wizards. The five-day affair, which wrapped up Friday, was graced by PM Modi himself at its kickoff, and a phalanx of ministers.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the heart of HSL’s outreach was the MCI deal, a strategic beachhead in the Gulf. Under the MoU, the Dubai firm will closely cooperate with HSL even as the latter looks to service to MENA clients, potentially funneling repairs to Visakhapatnam—HSL’s home base on India’s eastern seaboard.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is widely believed that the global ship-repair market will be worth billions of dollars and this MoU fits a broader mosaic of agreements HSL notched during the week, blending domestic muscle with foreign flair. A tie-up with the Dredging Corporation of India for docking and overhauling dredgers, bolstering coastal infrastructure, collaboration with the Indian Ports Association to align with national shipbuilding drives, a contract with Visakhapatnam Port Authority to build a 60-tonne bollard-pull tug, a workhorse for harbour towing and a partnership with the Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding for AI and robotics training. These aren’t isolated handshakes but India's increased focus on “Atmanirbhar Bharat” or self-reliant India, reimagined through public-private alchemy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, at the end of the maritime week, announced over ₹12 lakh crore in investments through 600+ MoUs at India Maritime Week 2025. He pointed out, “India’s growing leadership in sustainable port-led development and its emergence as a key driver of the global blue economy.”

The agreement, unveiled amid the glitz of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, underscores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s blueprint to transform India’s shipyards into a global powerhouse, under the “Maritime Amrit Kaal” vision that eyes 2047 as the horizon for self-reliance and export dominance.

New Delhi: India’s state-run shipbuilding company inked a pact this week that could extend its tech know-how far beyond the shores of India. Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), a Mini-Ratna state-owned shipyard under the Ministry of Defence, signed a memorandum of understanding with Dubai-based MCI World LLC, aiming to muscle into the lucrative ship-repair market of the Middle East and North Africa. The agreement, unveiled amid the glitz of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, underscores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s blueprint to transform India’s shipyards into a global powerhouse, under the “Maritime Amrit Kaal” vision that eyes 2047 as the horizon for self-reliance and export dominance. IMW 2025, co-hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Indian Ports Association, drew a constellation of heavyweights: Over 100 international exhibitors, from port czars to tech wizards. The five-day affair, which wrapped up Friday, was graced by PM Modi himself at its kickoff, and a phalanx of ministers. At the heart of HSL’s outreach was the MCI deal, a strategic beachhead in the Gulf. Under the MoU, the Dubai firm will closely cooperate with HSL even as the latter looks to service to MENA clients, potentially funneling repairs to Visakhapatnam—HSL’s home base on India’s eastern seaboard. It is widely believed that the global ship-repair market will be worth billions of dollars and this MoU fits a broader mosaic of agreements HSL notched during the week, blending domestic muscle with foreign flair. A tie-up with the Dredging Corporation of India for docking and overhauling dredgers, bolstering coastal infrastructure, collaboration with the Indian Ports Association to align with national shipbuilding drives, a contract with Visakhapatnam Port Authority to build a 60-tonne bollard-pull tug, a workhorse for harbour towing and a partnership with the Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding for AI and robotics training. These aren’t isolated handshakes but India's increased focus on “Atmanirbhar Bharat” or self-reliant India, reimagined through public-private alchemy. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, at the end of the maritime week, announced over ₹12 lakh crore in investments through 600+ MoUs at India Maritime Week 2025. He pointed out, “India’s growing leadership in sustainable port-led development and its emergence as a key driver of the global blue economy.”

The agreement, unveiled amid the glitz of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, underscores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s blueprint to transform India’s shipyards into a global powerhouse, under the “Maritime Amrit Kaal” vision that eyes 2047 as the horizon for self-reliance and export dominance.

India’s shipyards set sail for global ambition as key pacts inked

Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif alleged on Saturday that India wants to keep Islamabad busy and engaged in conflict on the eastern and western fronts amid the ongoing tensions with Kabul and New Delhi. Asif was referring to the recent clashes with Afghanistan on the country’s western border and the May conflict with India on the eastern border during Operation Sindoor. Pakistan agreed to continue ceasefire with Afghanistan on Friday morning following a rapid deterioration of ties with Kabul. Asif has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of acting “proxy for India”.&nbsp;&nbsp;“India seeks to keep Pakistan preoccupied on two fronts: the eastern and western,” Asif said, and alleged that Delhi has been “waging a proxy war against Pakistan since the Ashraf Ghani era.” “If necessary, we will present proof,” he told Geo News.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haryana-youth-headed-to-us-via-dunki-route-killed-in-guatemala-after-ransom-demands-by-traffickers-1762018565370">Haryana youth headed to US via ‘Dunki’ route, killed in Guatemala after ransom demands by traffickers</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Afghanistan acting as a proxy for India’</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this week, Asif repeated his claim that Afghanistan was acting as a proxy for India and claimed that the Taliban leadership was being manipulated by India.“The people in Kabul pulling the strings and staging the puppet show are being controlled by Delhi,” he said, according to a report in the Dawn.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-why-not-reciprocate-and-engage-with-hinduism-too-hindu-american-foundation-asks-jd-vance-1762009614746">‘Why not reciprocate and engage with Hinduism too,’ Hindu American Foundation asks JD Vance</a>&nbsp;While speaking about the recent clashes with Kabul, he had also warned that India “could play dirty at the border” and went on to assert that Islamabad is even prepared for a “two-front war”.&nbsp;Violent clashes had erupted on the Afghan-Pakistan border at a time when Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was on a visit to India.&nbsp;<h2>‘Terrorism from Afghan soil should completely stop’</h2>&nbsp;Pakistan launched airstrikes on Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan sanctuaries in Afghanistan on Oct 9, triggering border clashes that continued for days before a ceasefire was formalised in Doha on Oct 18-19.&nbsp;“Everyone is onboard—politicians, the establishment and the nation—that an immediate solution to the Afghanistan issue is very necessary, which is that terrorism from Afghan soil should be completely stopped,” Asif added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanzania-president-samia-wins-again-bags-98-votes-hundreds-feared-dead-in-election-unrest-1762002943059">Tanzania President Samia wins again, bags 98% votes; hundreds feared dead in election unrest</a>&nbsp;Asif also expressed optimism that the mediation efforts by Qatar and Turkey on the recent ceasefire with Afghanistan will yield positive results.&nbsp;A three-point understanding was reached at the second round of negotiations with Afghanistan, including, the continuation of the ceasefire, the establishment of a monitoring and verification mechanism to ensure peace, and penalties for violations.

Violent clashes had erupted on the Afghan-Pakistan border at a time when Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was on a visit to India after Pakistan launched airstrikes on Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan sanctuaries in Afghanistan on Oct 9, triggering border clashes that continued for days.

Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif alleged on Saturday that India wants to keep Islamabad busy and engaged in conflict on the eastern and western fronts amid the ongoing tensions with Kabul and New Delhi. Asif was referring to the recent clashes with Afghanistan on the country’s western border and the May conflict with India on the eastern border during Operation Sindoor. Pakistan agreed to continue ceasefire with Afghanistan on Friday morning following a rapid deterioration of ties with Kabul. Asif has repeatedly accused Afghanistan of acting “proxy for India”. “India seeks to keep Pakistan preoccupied on two fronts: the eastern and western,” Asif said, and alleged that Delhi has been “waging a proxy war against Pakistan since the Ashraf Ghani era.” “If necessary, we will present proof,” he told Geo News. Also Read: Haryana youth headed to US via ‘Dunki’ route, killed in Guatemala after ransom demands by traffickers ‘Afghanistan acting as a proxy for India’ Earlier this week, Asif repeated his claim that Afghanistan was acting as a proxy for India and claimed that the Taliban leadership was being manipulated by India. “The people in Kabul pulling the strings and staging the puppet show are being controlled by Delhi,” he said, according to a report in the Dawn. Also Read: ‘Why not reciprocate and engage with Hinduism too,’ Hindu American Foundation asks JD Vance While speaking about the recent clashes with Kabul, he had also warned that India “could play dirty at the border” and went on to assert that Islamabad is even prepared for a “two-front war”. Violent clashes had erupted on the Afghan-Pakistan border at a time when Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was on a visit to India. ‘Terrorism from Afghan soil should completely stop’ Pakistan launched airstrikes on Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan sanctuaries in Afghanistan on Oct 9, triggering border clashes that continued for days before a ceasefire was formalised in Doha on Oct 18-19. “Everyone is onboard—politicians, the establishment and the nation—that an immediate solution to the Afghanistan issue is very necessary, which is that terrorism from Afghan soil should be completely stopped,” Asif added. Also Read: Tanzania President Samia wins again, bags 98% votes; hundreds feared dead in election unrest Asif also expressed optimism that the mediation efforts by Qatar and Turkey on the recent ceasefire with Afghanistan will yield positive results. A three-point understanding was reached at the second round of negotiations with Afghanistan, including, the continuation of the ceasefire, the establishment of a monitoring and verification mechanism to ensure peace, and penalties for violations.

Violent clashes had erupted on the Afghan-Pakistan border at a time when Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi was on a visit to India after Pakistan launched airstrikes on Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan sanctuaries in Afghanistan on Oct 9, triggering border clashes that continued for days.

‘India wants to keep Pakistan busy, engaged in conflict’: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif

The Palestinian militant group Hamas has accused Israel of organ theft after the hostage-prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal. The Health Ministry officials in Gaza said on Saturday (Nov 1) that some of the bodies received by Israel during the peace deal under Donald Trump have been emptied and stuffed with cotton."The Ministry lacks the tools to prove the occupation's theft of the martyrs' organs," the ministry said.This accusation against Israel did not come for the first time. On 17 October, Gaza government media office director Dr Ismail al-Thawabta accused the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) of stealing organs from Palestinian corpses and called for an immediate international investigation “to hold Israel accountable for serious violations against the bodies of the martyrs and the theft of their organs”.In November 2023, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor tracked the IDF’s confiscation of dozens of dead bodies from the al-Shifa medical complex. Medical professionals in Gaza who examined some of the bodies after they were released found evidence of organ theft, including “missing cochleas and corneas as well as other vital organs like livers, kidneys, and hearts”.In January 2024, CNN reported IDF attacks on 16 cemeteries in Gaza, and in the same month, Euro-Med Monitor stated that at least 12 cemeteries had been targeted by the IDF. Medical sources said that upon inspection, some bodies had organs missing.This came after the Advocate General Major-General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, the Israeli military's chief legal officer, resigned on Friday (Oct 31) over a criminal inquiry against her. This occurred after a leaked video in which soldiers were seen abusing a Palestinian detainee arrested during the Gaza war. In her resignation, Yerushalmi said she was stepping down because she had approved the video's leak in August 2024."To my regret, this basic understanding - at there are acts to which even the most vile of detainees must not be subjected - is no longer convincing to all," she said.

In November 2023, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor tracked the IDF’s confiscation of dozens of dead bodies from the al-Shifa medical complex. Medical professionals in Gaza who examined some of the bodies after they were released found evidence of organ theft. 

The Palestinian militant group Hamas has accused Israel of organ theft after the hostage-prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal. The Health Ministry officials in Gaza said on Saturday (Nov 1) that some of the bodies received by Israel during the peace deal under Donald Trump have been emptied and stuffed with cotton. "The Ministry lacks the tools to prove the occupation's theft of the martyrs' organs," the ministry said. This accusation against Israel did not come for the first time. On 17 October, Gaza government media office director Dr Ismail al-Thawabta accused the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) of stealing organs from Palestinian corpses and called for an immediate international investigation “to hold Israel accountable for serious violations against the bodies of the martyrs and the theft of their organs”. In November 2023, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor tracked the IDF’s confiscation of dozens of dead bodies from the al-Shifa medical complex. Medical professionals in Gaza who examined some of the bodies after they were released found evidence of organ theft, including “missing cochleas and corneas as well as other vital organs like livers, kidneys, and hearts”. In January 2024, CNN reported IDF attacks on 16 cemeteries in Gaza, and in the same month, Euro-Med Monitor stated that at least 12 cemeteries had been targeted by the IDF. Medical sources said that upon inspection, some bodies had organs missing. This came after the Advocate General Major-General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, the Israeli military's chief legal officer, resigned on Friday (Oct 31) over a criminal inquiry against her. This occurred after a leaked video in which soldiers were seen abusing a Palestinian detainee arrested during the Gaza war. In her resignation, Yerushalmi said she was stepping down because she had approved the video's leak in August 2024. "To my regret, this basic understanding - at there are acts to which even the most vile of detainees must not be subjected - is no longer convincing to all," she said.

In November 2023, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor tracked the IDF’s confiscation of dozens of dead bodies from the al-Shifa medical complex. Medical professionals in Gaza who examined some of the bodies after they were released found evidence of organ theft.&nbsp;

Hamas accuses Israel of organ theft from Palestinian corpses - AND it’s not the first time

Ukraine has claimed that Russia was using the controversial 9M729 cruise missile against Kyiv in the ongoing war. It is the same missile that led to the collapse of a key Cold War–era arms control pact with the United States in the past. Volodymyr Zelensky's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the Russian forces have deployed the ground-launched 9M729 cruise missile. The weapon is also known as the SSC-8 to NATO.There's limited information about the controversial weapon. All that is available out there says that the missile is a ground-launched cruise missile developed by the Russian manufacturer NPO Novator.The weapon is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and employing a terrain-following flight profile to evade detection.The CSIS Missile Threat said that the 9M729 is likely a ground-launched variant of the Russian Navy’s ship-launched 3M-54 Kalibr missile. Russia began secretly developing the 9M729 in the middle of the 2000s, and flight testing began in 2008.The missile was at the centre of the US decision to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. The US had argued that the range of the weapon is wya more than the treaty’s 500-kilometre limit. Russia had denied the claim. Then-President Donald Trump formally pulled the US out of the pact, citing repeated Russian violations.This came after Zelensky said on Thursday (Oct 23) that Kyiv did not use American long-range weapons on Russia in the ongoing war. He also stated that Ukraine's domestically produced long-range capabilities reach 3,000 km."I hope that they will make a political decision, positive decision in one or another way to help Ukraine with funds," Zelensky told a press conference in Brussels, where EU leaders discussed the plans."Russia brought war to our land, and they have to pay for this war," he said.

The weapon is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and employing a terrain-following flight profile to evade detection.

Ukraine has claimed that Russia was using the controversial 9M729 cruise missile against Kyiv in the ongoing war. It is the same missile that led to the collapse of a key Cold War–era arms control pact with the United States in the past. Volodymyr Zelensky's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the Russian forces have deployed the ground-launched 9M729 cruise missile. The weapon is also known as the SSC-8 to NATO. There's limited information about the controversial weapon. All that is available out there says that the missile is a ground-launched cruise missile developed by the Russian manufacturer NPO Novator. The weapon is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and employing a terrain-following flight profile to evade detection. The CSIS Missile Threat said that the 9M729 is likely a ground-launched variant of the Russian Navy’s ship-launched 3M-54 Kalibr missile. Russia began secretly developing the 9M729 in the middle of the 2000s, and flight testing began in 2008. The missile was at the centre of the US decision to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. The US had argued that the range of the weapon is wya more than the treaty’s 500-kilometre limit. Russia had denied the claim. Then-President Donald Trump formally pulled the US out of the pact, citing repeated Russian violations. This came after Zelensky said on Thursday (Oct 23) that Kyiv did not use American long-range weapons on Russia in the ongoing war. He also stated that Ukraine's domestically produced long-range capabilities reach 3,000 km. "I hope that they will make a political decision, positive decision in one or another way to help Ukraine with funds," Zelensky told a press conference in Brussels, where EU leaders discussed the plans. "Russia brought war to our land, and they have to pay for this war," he said.

The weapon is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and employing a terrain-following flight profile to evade detection.

Why 9M729 cruise missile controversial? All about the weapon Russia developed ‘secretly’

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that “I do NOT want Americans to go hungry”, but as the 2025 federal shutdown drags on, there are two contradictory impulses that seem to animate GOP messaging. 42 million people across the US are likely to be affected. According to the data from US government sources, “39% of SNAP participants were children, 20% were elderly, and 10% were nonelderly individuals with a disability”<h2>A yawning gap between ideology and impact</h2>The official Republican stance, however, is different from Trump's empathetic proclamation. Republicans argue that Democrats should agree to fund the government and stop using the potential lapse as a “leverage point”. Senate Republicans recently blocked a Democratic-led bill that would have provided continued funding for SNAP.Despite having the legal basis, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that it will not use the $5billion contingency fund intended for emergencies.<h2>GOP's performative compassion</h2>Despite the Trump administration posting that “mothers, babies, and the most vulnerable among us" are falling prey to the Democratic stubbornness. The Republican populist leaders are split between whether the SNAP beneficiaries are just victims of Democrats' stubbornness or if they are just lazy crack head leeching off the system.Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville said, "A lot of young men on SNAP that should be working.” US Rep. Clay Higgins, posted on X, “Any American who has been receiving $4,200 per year of free groceries and does NOT have at least 1 month of groceries stocked should never again receive SNAP, because wow, stop smoking crack.”Lawyer and Trump ally Mike Davis cynically said, “Get off your fat, ghetto a*s,” wrote Davis. “Get a job. Stop reproducing. Change your s**ty culture."<h2>What happens now?</h2>Two federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have ordered the Trump administration to ensure SNAP benefits continue, even if only partially, using emergency funds. The federal government is now under pressure to comply, and Trump is unsure about the legality of using these specific funds. In a lengthy Truth Social post, he announced that he has instructed government lawyers to "clarify how we can legally fund SNAP as soon as possible."&nbsp;

As 42 million Americans risk losing SNAP aid, GOP leaders are divided in their messaging between blaming democrats and calling beneficiaries lazy or undeserving.

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that “I do NOT want Americans to go hungry”, but as the 2025 federal shutdown drags on, there are two contradictory impulses that seem to animate GOP messaging. 42 million people across the US are likely to be affected. According to the data from US government sources, “39% of SNAP participants were children, 20% were elderly, and 10% were nonelderly individuals with a disability” A yawning gap between ideology and impact The official Republican stance, however, is different from Trump's empathetic proclamation. Republicans argue that Democrats should agree to fund the government and stop using the potential lapse as a “leverage point”. Senate Republicans recently blocked a Democratic-led bill that would have provided continued funding for SNAP. Despite having the legal basis, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that it will not use the $5billion contingency fund intended for emergencies. GOP's performative compassion Despite the Trump administration posting that “mothers, babies, and the most vulnerable among us" are falling prey to the Democratic stubbornness. The Republican populist leaders are split between whether the SNAP beneficiaries are just victims of Democrats' stubbornness or if they are just lazy crack head leeching off the system. Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville said, "A lot of young men on SNAP that should be working.” US Rep. Clay Higgins, posted on X, “Any American who has been receiving $4,200 per year of free groceries and does NOT have at least 1 month of groceries stocked should never again receive SNAP, because wow, stop smoking crack.” Lawyer and Trump ally Mike Davis cynically said, “Get off your fat, ghetto a*s,” wrote Davis. “Get a job. Stop reproducing. Change your s**ty culture." What happens now? Two federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have ordered the Trump administration to ensure SNAP benefits continue, even if only partially, using emergency funds. The federal government is now under pressure to comply, and Trump is unsure about the legality of using these specific funds. In a lengthy Truth Social post, he announced that he has instructed government lawyers to "clarify how we can legally fund SNAP as soon as possible."

As 42 million Americans risk losing SNAP aid, GOP leaders are divided in their messaging between blaming democrats and calling beneficiaries lazy or undeserving.

'Stop smoking crack': How Republicans are divided on supporting 42million SNAP beneficiaries

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has criticised US Vice President JD Vance strongly for his remarks about his wife, Usha Vance, and her Hindu faith, and his hopes that she converts to Christianity one day. After being slammed for his remarks, Vance issued a clarification on his comments and said that it was his wife’s faith that helped him reconnect with his own religion. In an X post in reply to Vance’s clarification, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) asked why the vice president never considered engaging with Hinduism as well.“With respect, @JDVance, if your wife encouraged you to re-engage with your faith, why not reciprocate that and engage with Hinduism too?” the HAF wrote on X.&nbsp;<h2>‘Hinduism is inherently inclusive and pluralistic’</h2>&nbsp;“Hinduism is inherently inclusive and pluralistic in this way. We do not seek to convert anyone,” the Foundation said. “Hinduism doesn’t require the spouse to adopt your religious beliefs.”It also criticised what it described as “a compulsion from some religious communities to convert us to another way of thinking,” calling such actions disrespectful and harmful.Referring to “a long history of denigrating Hindu beliefs and attempting conversions through sometimes unethical means,” the HAF said such tendencies continue to manifest online.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With respect <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JDVance</a>, if your wife encouraged you to re-engage with your faith, why not reciprocate that and engage with Hinduism too? If you did you may well learn that Hinduism doesn’t share the need to wish your spouse comes around to see things as you do in terms of… <a href="https://t.co/fkQQgclNDl">https://t.co/fkQQgclNDl</a>&mdash; Hindu American Foundation (@HinduAmerican) <a href="https://twitter.com/HinduAmerican/status/1984304542146613520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 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/tanzania-president-samia-wins-again-bags-98-votes-hundreds-feared-dead-in-election-unrest-1762002943059">Tanzania President Samia wins again, bags 98% votes; hundreds feared dead in election unrest</a><h2>‘Publicly acknowledge the positive influence of Hinduism’</h2>&nbsp;It cited “anti-Hindu” content shared by Christian accounts, noting that such posts reflect a belief that there is “only one true path to salvation—a concept that Hinduism simply doesn’t have—and that path is through Christ.”“Some of the most vocal voices in your base seem to not actually believe religious freedom—one of the core concepts this nation was founded upon, as you well know—should extend to Hindus,” the Hindu American Foundation wrote in response to Vance’s post.It added that given the “growing anti-Hindu sentiment online”, it would be reasonable for the vice president to publicly acknowledge the positive influence of Hinduism on him.“You are the Vice President,” the HAF wrote. “It’s more than reasonable, and well within precedent, for a Christian public figure like yourself to recognise Hinduism’s positive impact and the rights of Hindus to practise their faith.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-usha-has-no-plans-to-convert-jd-vance-clarifies-after-backlash-over-his-remarks-on-wife-s-faith-1761930050390">‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith</a>&nbsp;After being slammed online, Vance had on Friday said it was “disgusting” to interpret his remarks as an attack on his wife’s religion.He clarified that Usha Vance is not a Christian and has no plans to convert, but like many in interfaith marriages, he hopes that she may one day share his beliefs.&nbsp;“Regardless, I’ll continue to love and support her and talk to her about faith and life and everything else, because she’s my wife,” he said, describing Usha as “the most amazing blessing” in his life who encouraged him to re-engage with his faith.Vance was addressing a Turning Point USA event in Mississippi on Wednesday where he made the remarks that landed him in a controversy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a>&nbsp;Asked whether he hoped his wife would eventually “come to Christ,” Vance candidly said he wishes that she might one day embrace Christianity while affirming her free will and their mutual respect in an interfaith marriage.Vance later defended his statements and called his criticism “anti-Christian bigotry.”“Yes, Christians have beliefs. And yes, one of those beliefs is that we want to share them with others. That’s a completely normal thing,” he wrote.&nbsp;WATCH: Reports: Despite UN sanctions, Chinese ships keep arming Iran<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/reports-despite-un-sanctions-chinese-ships-keep-arming-iran-1762010574359/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/reports-despite-un-sanctions-chinese-ships-keep-arming-iran-1762010574359/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hindu American Foundation criticised compulsion from some religious communities to convert Hindus and called such actions disrespectful and harmful. It also referred to a long history of denigrating Hindu beliefs and attempting conversions through sometimes unethical means.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has criticised US Vice President JD Vance strongly for his remarks about his wife, Usha Vance, and her Hindu faith, and his hopes that she converts to Christianity one day. After being slammed for his remarks, Vance issued a clarification on his comments and said that it was his wife’s faith that helped him reconnect with his own religion. In an X post in reply to Vance’s clarification, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) asked why the vice president never considered engaging with Hinduism as well. “With respect, @JDVance, if your wife encouraged you to re-engage with your faith, why not reciprocate that and engage with Hinduism too?” the HAF wrote on X. ‘Hinduism is inherently inclusive and pluralistic’ “Hinduism is inherently inclusive and pluralistic in this way. We do not seek to convert anyone,” the Foundation said. “Hinduism doesn’t require the spouse to adopt your religious beliefs.” It also criticised what it described as “a compulsion from some religious communities to convert us to another way of thinking,” calling such actions disrespectful and harmful. Referring to “a long history of denigrating Hindu beliefs and attempting conversions through sometimes unethical means,” the HAF said such tendencies continue to manifest online.

The Hindu American Foundation criticised compulsion from some religious communities to convert Hindus and called such actions disrespectful and harmful. It also referred to a long history of denigrating Hindu beliefs and attempting conversions through sometimes unethical means.

‘Why not reciprocate and engage with Hinduism too,’ Hindu American Foundation asks JD Vance

Advocate General Major-General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, the Israeli military's chief legal officer, resigned on Friday (Oct 31) over a criminal inquiry against her. This occurred after a leaked video in which soldiers were seen abusing a Palestinian detainee arrested during the Gaza war. In her resignation, Yerushalmi said she was stepping down because she had approved the video's leak in August 2024."To my regret, this basic understanding - at there are acts to which even the most vile of detainees must not be subjected - is no longer convincing to all," she said.AN investigation was launched into the matter, which led to criminal charges against five soldiers and stirred an uproar. The situation escalated when the investigating team sought troops for questioning in the case. And the investigation drew extreme criticism from the right-wing politicians.The leaked footage showed a few Israeli soldiers taking a prisoner aside and crowding around while holding a dog and blocking visibility of their actions with their riot gear.On Wednesday, Defence Minister Israel Katz said that there has been an ongoing criminal inquiry into the video leak and that Tomer-Yerushalmi was on forced leave.Meanwhile, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has accused Israel of organ theft after the hostage-prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal. The Health Ministry officials in Gaza said on Saturday (Nov 1) that some of the bodies received by Israel during the peace deal under Donald Trump have been emptied and stuffed with cotton."The Ministry lacks the tools to prove the occupation's theft of the martyrs' organs," the ministry said.This accusation against Israel did not come for the first time. On 17 October, Gaza government media office director Dr Ismail al-Thawabta accused the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) of stealing organs from Palestinian corpses and called for an immediate international investigation “to hold Israel accountable for serious violations against the bodies of the martyrs and the theft of their organs”.In November 2023, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor tracked the IDF’s confiscation of dozens of dead bodies from the al-Shifa medical complex. Medical professionals in Gaza who examined some of the bodies after they were released found evidence of organ theft, including “missing cochleas and corneas as well as other vital organs like livers, kidneys, and hearts”.&nbsp;

The leaked footage showed a few Israeli soldiers taking a prisoner aside and crowding around while holding a dog and blocking visibility of their actions with their riot gear.

Advocate General Major-General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, the Israeli military's chief legal officer, resigned on Friday (Oct 31) over a criminal inquiry against her. This occurred after a leaked video in which soldiers were seen abusing a Palestinian detainee arrested during the Gaza war. In her resignation, Yerushalmi said she was stepping down because she had approved the video's leak in August 2024. "To my regret, this basic understanding - at there are acts to which even the most vile of detainees must not be subjected - is no longer convincing to all," she said. AN investigation was launched into the matter, which led to criminal charges against five soldiers and stirred an uproar. The situation escalated when the investigating team sought troops for questioning in the case. And the investigation drew extreme criticism from the right-wing politicians. The leaked footage showed a few Israeli soldiers taking a prisoner aside and crowding around while holding a dog and blocking visibility of their actions with their riot gear. On Wednesday, Defence Minister Israel Katz said that there has been an ongoing criminal inquiry into the video leak and that Tomer-Yerushalmi was on forced leave. Meanwhile, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has accused Israel of organ theft after the hostage-prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal. The Health Ministry officials in Gaza said on Saturday (Nov 1) that some of the bodies received by Israel during the peace deal under Donald Trump have been emptied and stuffed with cotton. "The Ministry lacks the tools to prove the occupation's theft of the martyrs' organs," the ministry said. This accusation against Israel did not come for the first time. On 17 October, Gaza government media office director Dr Ismail al-Thawabta accused the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) of stealing organs from Palestinian corpses and called for an immediate international investigation “to hold Israel accountable for serious violations against the bodies of the martyrs and the theft of their organs”. In November 2023, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor tracked the IDF’s confiscation of dozens of dead bodies from the al-Shifa medical complex. Medical professionals in Gaza who examined some of the bodies after they were released found evidence of organ theft, including “missing cochleas and corneas as well as other vital organs like livers, kidneys, and hearts”.

The leaked footage showed a few Israeli soldiers taking a prisoner aside and crowding around while holding a dog and blocking visibility of their actions with their riot gear.

Leaked video shows Israeli official abusing Palestinian detainee, resigns after probe proves it

While most nations operate with a single codified constitution that defines the legal framework, there are a few that do not have a consolidated document. Instead, they function with statutes, conventions, religious laws, and judicial precedents.

Which countries don’t have a constitution? How do they operate?

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been declared the winner of Tanzania’s presidential election, securing another term in office amid days of unrest across the country. According to the electoral commission, Samia won 98% of the votes, nearly sweeping the 32 million ballots cast in Wednesday’s election. “I hereby announce Samia Suluhu Hassan as the winner of the presidential election under the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party,” Jacobs Mwambegele, the electoral chief, said while announcing the results on Saturday morning. Samia secured about 31.9 million votes, or 97.66% of the total, with turnout nearing 87% of the country’s 37.6 million registered voters, the electoral chief said.&nbsp;Samia’s ruling party, CCM, and its predecessor, Tanu, have dominated the country’s politics and have never lost an election since independence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-thwarted-potential-terrorist-attack-during-halloween-weekend-kash-patel-1761922083111">FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report</a><h2>Observers express concern over lack of transparency, widespread turmoil</h2>&nbsp;However, international observers have expressed concern over the lack of transparency and widespread turmoil that has reportedly left hundreds of people dead and hundreds injured. Moreover, an internet shutdown across the nation is making it difficult to verify the death toll. The government is playing down the scale of violence, and authorities have extended curfew to quell the unrest.&nbsp;UN chief Antonio Guterres said he was “deeply concerned” about the situation in Tanzania, “including reports of deaths and injuries during the demonstrations”. He urged all parties involved to “prevent further escalation”.The UK, Canada, and Norway also expressed concerns, citing “credible reports of a large number of fatalities and significant injuries as a result of the security response to protests”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a>&nbsp;Foreign Minister Mahmoud Kombo Thabit downplayed the violence as a “few isolated pockets of incidents here and there” and said “security forces acted very swiftly and decisively to address the situation”.&nbsp;<h2>Main contenders pushed out of presidential race</h2>&nbsp;There were two main opposition contenders, including Tundu Lissu, who is being held on treason charges he denies, and Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo Party, but he was excluded on legal technicalities. Sixteen fringe parties, none of whom ever had any significant public support, were allowed to run.Ahead of the election, rights groups condemned government repression, while Amnesty International cited a “wave of terror” involving enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings of opposition figures.Samia came into office in 2021 as Tanzania’s first female president after the death of President John Magufuli.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-jeddah-hyderabad-flight-gets-ltte-isi-human-bomb-threat-diverted-to-mumbai-1761998599955">IndiGo Jeddah-Hyderabad flight gets ‘LTTE-ISI’ human bomb threat, diverted to Mumbai</a>&nbsp;In protests on Friday, demonstrators in the port city of Dar es Salaam and other cities tore up Samia’s posters and attacked police and polling stations despite warnings from the army chief.The demonstrations are mostly led by young protesters, who have denounced the election as unfair. They accuse the government of undermining democracy by suppressing the main opposition leaders.The spokesperson of the opposition Chadema party told AFP on Friday that “around 700” people had been killed in clashes with security forces.&nbsp;In Tanzania’s semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar, which elects its own government and leader, CCM’s Hussein Mwinyi, who is the incumbent president, won with nearly 80% of the vote. The opposition in Zanzibar said there had been “massive fraud”.&nbsp;The government dismissed the opposition’s death toll as “hugely exaggerated” and has rejected criticism of its human rights record.

There were two main contenders, including Tundu Lissu, who is being held on treason charges he denies, and Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo Party, but he was excluded on legal technicalities. Sixteen fringe parties, none of whom ever had any significant public support, were allowed to run.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been declared the winner of Tanzania’s presidential election, securing another term in office amid days of unrest across the country. According to the electoral commission, Samia won 98% of the votes, nearly sweeping the 32 million ballots cast in Wednesday’s election. “I hereby announce Samia Suluhu Hassan as the winner of the presidential election under the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party,” Jacobs Mwambegele, the electoral chief, said while announcing the results on Saturday morning. Samia secured about 31.9 million votes, or 97.66% of the total, with turnout nearing 87% of the country’s 37.6 million registered voters, the electoral chief said. Samia’s ruling party, CCM, and its predecessor, Tanu, have dominated the country’s politics and have never lost an election since independence. Also Read: FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report Observers express concern over lack of transparency, widespread turmoil However, international observers have expressed concern over the lack of transparency and widespread turmoil that has reportedly left hundreds of people dead and hundreds injured. Moreover, an internet shutdown across the nation is making it difficult to verify the death toll. The government is playing down the scale of violence, and authorities have extended curfew to quell the unrest. UN chief Antonio Guterres said he was “deeply concerned” about the situation in Tanzania, “including reports of deaths and injuries during the demonstrations”. He urged all parties involved to “prevent further escalation”. The UK, Canada, and Norway also expressed concerns, citing “credible reports of a large number of fatalities and significant injuries as a result of the security response to protests”. Also Read: JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually Foreign Minister Mahmoud Kombo Thabit downplayed the violence as a “few isolated pockets of incidents here and there” and said “security forces acted very swiftly and decisively to address the situation”. Main contenders pushed out of presidential race There were two main opposition contenders, including Tundu Lissu, who is being held on treason charges he denies, and Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo Party, but he was excluded on legal technicalities. Sixteen fringe parties, none of whom ever had any significant public support, were allowed to run. Ahead of the election, rights groups condemned government repression, while Amnesty International cited a “wave of terror” involving enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings of opposition figures. Samia came into office in 2021 as Tanzania’s first female president after the death of President John Magufuli. Also Read: IndiGo Jeddah-Hyderabad flight gets ‘LTTE-ISI’ human bomb threat, diverted to Mumbai In protests on Friday, demonstrators in the port city of Dar es Salaam and other cities tore up Samia’s posters and attacked police and polling stations despite warnings from the army chief. The demonstrations are mostly led by young protesters, who have denounced the election as unfair. They accuse the government of undermining democracy by suppressing the main opposition leaders. The spokesperson of the opposition Chadema party told AFP on Friday that “around 700” people had been killed in clashes with security forces. In Tanzania’s semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar, which elects its own government and leader, CCM’s Hussein Mwinyi, who is the incumbent president, won with nearly 80% of the vote. The opposition in Zanzibar said there had been “massive fraud”. The government dismissed the opposition’s death toll as “hugely exaggerated” and has rejected criticism of its human rights record.

There were two main contenders, including Tundu Lissu, who is being held on treason charges he denies, and Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo Party, but he was excluded on legal technicalities. Sixteen fringe parties, none of whom ever had any significant public support, were allowed to run.

Tanzania President Samia wins again, bags 98% votes; hundreds feared dead in election unrest

Ukraine has alleged in fresh allegations against Russia that Putin's army was using a missile which led to the collapse of a key Cold War–era arms control pact with the United States in the past. Volodymyr Zelensky's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the Russian forces have deployed the ground-launched 9M729 cruise missile. The weapon is also known as the SSC-8 to NATO.“The use of this system proves Russia’s complete disregard for international arms control norms," Sybiha said in a statement.The missile was at the centre of the US decision to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. The US had argued that the range of the weapon is wya more than the treaty’s 500-kilometre limit. Russia had denied the claim. Then-President Donald Trump formally pulled the US out of the pact, citing repeated Russian violations.This came after Zelensky said on Thursday (Oct 23) that Kyiv did not use American long-range weapons on Russia in the ongoing war. He also stated that Ukraine's domestically produced long-range capabilities reach 3,000 km."I hope that they will make a political decision, positive decision in one or another way to help Ukraine with funds," Zelensky told a press conference in Brussels, where EU leaders discussed the plans."Russia brought war to our land, and they have to pay for this war," he said.Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting of the Russian Geographical Society at the Kremlin the same day. He stated in the meeting that the new sanctions imposed by the US on Moscow would not significantly affect the Russian economy.He also criticised the sanctions by the US, saying no "self-recpecting" country ever does anything under pressure.Earlier, Russia rejected US President Donald Trump's demand for a ceasefire in the war with Ukraine. The Kremlin hinted that Russia's stance on peace remains unchanged. This came after Trump said last week that the Russian President Vladimir Putin wants a peace deal. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Trump’s demand for “an immediate ceasefire, which has suddenly become a topic of discussion again,” was contrary to what was agreed at the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska in August.“You see, if we just stop, it means forgetting the root causes of this conflict, which the American administration clearly understood,” Lavrov said, the New York Times reported.“I am referring to ensuring Ukraine’s nonaligned, nonnuclear status, which implies refraining from any attempts to draw it into NATO," he added.

The missile was at the centre of the US decision to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. The US had argued that the range of the weapon is wya more than the treaty 500-kilometre limit. 

Ukraine has alleged in fresh allegations against Russia that Putin's army was using a missile which led to the collapse of a key Cold War–era arms control pact with the United States in the past. Volodymyr Zelensky's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the Russian forces have deployed the ground-launched 9M729 cruise missile. The weapon is also known as the SSC-8 to NATO. “The use of this system proves Russia’s complete disregard for international arms control norms," Sybiha said in a statement. The missile was at the centre of the US decision to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. The US had argued that the range of the weapon is wya more than the treaty’s 500-kilometre limit. Russia had denied the claim. Then-President Donald Trump formally pulled the US out of the pact, citing repeated Russian violations. This came after Zelensky said on Thursday (Oct 23) that Kyiv did not use American long-range weapons on Russia in the ongoing war. He also stated that Ukraine's domestically produced long-range capabilities reach 3,000 km. "I hope that they will make a political decision, positive decision in one or another way to help Ukraine with funds," Zelensky told a press conference in Brussels, where EU leaders discussed the plans. "Russia brought war to our land, and they have to pay for this war," he said. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting of the Russian Geographical Society at the Kremlin the same day. He stated in the meeting that the new sanctions imposed by the US on Moscow would not significantly affect the Russian economy. He also criticised the sanctions by the US, saying no "self-recpecting" country ever does anything under pressure. Earlier, Russia rejected US President Donald Trump's demand for a ceasefire in the war with Ukraine. The Kremlin hinted that Russia's stance on peace remains unchanged. This came after Trump said last week that the Russian President Vladimir Putin wants a peace deal. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Trump’s demand for “an immediate ceasefire, which has suddenly become a topic of discussion again,” was contrary to what was agreed at the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska in August. “You see, if we just stop, it means forgetting the root causes of this conflict, which the American administration clearly understood,” Lavrov said, the New York Times reported. “I am referring to ensuring Ukraine’s nonaligned, nonnuclear status, which implies refraining from any attempts to draw it into NATO," he added.

The missile was at the centre of the US decision to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. The US had argued that the range of the weapon is wya more than the treaty’s 500-kilometre limit.&nbsp;

Russia uses 9M729 cruise missile on Ukraine, Zelensky’s FM claims. Here’s why it’s concerning for Trump

Congress General Secretary, on Saturday, called India's exit from Tajikistan's Ayni Airbase “yet another setback” for India's strategic diplomacy. Established in early 2000, the Farkhor-Ayni Airbase was India's first major footprint outside the subcontinent. Located near Tajikistan's capital, Dushanbe, it was meant to give India strategic reach in Central Asia and a backup airbase near Afghanistan, at the same time, countering Pakistan's influence. India invested nearly $70 million for renovation, extending the runway to 3200 meters, building air traffic control towers, laying new perimeter fence, constructing hangars and blast pens, and installing new navigation and communication equipment. The airbase was fully operational during 2010; there were reports of IAF personnel, Su-30MKI fighter jets, as well as military choppers being posted there. However, Russia retained operational control.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India had established its Ayni airforce base in Tajikistan in the early 2000s. Subsequently, infrastructure there was expanded. Given its extraordinary location, India had major plans for expanding its presence at Ayni. But four years back, India had been given a very clear… <a href="https://t.co/AEGKrYuyrO">pic.twitter.com/AEGKrYuyrO</a>&mdash; Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1984478994599985392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Why was India compelled to withdraw from its only overseas base?</h2>During a press briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India had withdrawn from the base back in 2022, but the reasons for the withdrawal had not come to light until recently. Multiple sources have reported that there was a lease between India and Tajikistan, which expired in 2021-22; however, there are no definitive official documents available to attribute such claims.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Delhi: During a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>) responds to a media query on India’s rehabilitation assistance to Tajikistan. He says, “We had a bilateral arrangement with Tajikistan for the rehabilitation and development of any aerodrome.… <a href="https://t.co/IusypJh9cm">pic.twitter.com/IusypJh9cm</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1983834607478042870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

So no official treaty was ever signed. When Russia renewed its lease in 2012, India’s limited access effectively narrowed. Beijing is opposed to India's military presence on its western border. Tajikistan was formerly part of the Soviet Union, and is part of Russia’s Collective Security Treaty Organisation, a group of military alliances between former Soviet Union independent states. Tajikistan did not want to offend either Moscow or Beijing, and did not formalise any agreement with India. As neither Moscow nor Beijing would enjoy non-regional military personnel at the base, specifically in light of the 2008 US-India Civil Nuclear Deal. As the US exited Afghanistan, India also lacked motivation to maintain its costly operations at the Ayni base. Eventhough Russia didn't explicitly mention India's withdrawal but it blocked operational control and ensured India’s presence faded out by controlling access.&nbsp;

Congress calls India's withdrawal from Tajikistan’s Ayni Airbase in 2022 a major diplomatic setback amid Russian and Chinese pressure and shifting regional priorities.

Congress General Secretary, on Saturday, called India's exit from Tajikistan's Ayni Airbase “yet another setback” for India's strategic diplomacy. Established in early 2000, the Farkhor-Ayni Airbase was India's first major footprint outside the subcontinent. Located near Tajikistan's capital, Dushanbe, it was meant to give India strategic reach in Central Asia and a backup airbase near Afghanistan, at the same time, countering Pakistan's influence. India invested nearly $70 million for renovation, extending the runway to 3200 meters, building air traffic control towers, laying new perimeter fence, constructing hangars and blast pens, and installing new navigation and communication equipment. The airbase was fully operational during 2010; there were reports of IAF personnel, Su-30MKI fighter jets, as well as military choppers being posted there. However, Russia retained operational control.

Congress calls India's withdrawal from Tajikistan’s Ayni Airbase in 2022 a major diplomatic setback amid Russian and Chinese pressure and shifting regional priorities.

'Yet another setback': Did Russia and China pressure India to exit from Tajikistan’s Ayni base?

A tiny nation with only 0.528 million population has become the first and the only nation in the world to ban smoking for an entire generation. The curious yet bold move has been taken by the Maldives, an archipelagic country in South Asia. The move officially bans smoking for anyone born after January 1, 2007 and comes into effect from Saturday (Nov 1). The most curious thing? The ban will even apply to those visiting the tiny nation. Here's all you need to know about the Maldives' generational smoking ban.<h2>The only nation with a generational prohibition on tobacco</h2>The Maldives has officially become the only country in the world to enforce a generational prohibition on tobacco use, the Health Ministry announced Saturday (Nov 1). The ban is part of President Mohamed Muizzu’s broader public health initiative. It prohibits individuals born in 2007 or later from buying, using, or being sold tobacco products anywhere in the island nation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fact-check-did-obama-spend-376-million-to-build-a-basketball-court-at-the-white-house-1761638839164">Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House?</a>In a statement, the nation's health ministry said, "Under the new provision, individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, are prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products within the Maldives".The new rules apply not only to citizens but also to visitors in the Maldives — a nation of more than 1,100 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean and renowned for its luxury resorts.<h2>How will the ban be enforced?</h2>According to the health ministry's statement, retailers would now be required to verify age prior to sale. "The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale." This measure aims to "protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation", the ministry said in a statement.Authorities said the ban covers all tobacco products, including cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. The country also noted that it already maintains a blanket ban on the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices for all age groups.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judges-order-trump-to-keep-food-aid-running-amid-shutdown-don-t-want-americans-to-go-hungry-1761963474050">Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown</a><h2>What if someone violates the rule?</h2>Violating the new restrictions carries heavy penalties. For retailers, selling tobacco to underage buyers comes with a fine of 50,000 Maldivian rufiyaa (around $3,200), while individuals caught using vape devices could be fined 5,000 rufiyaa ($320).Globally, the Maldives now stands alone in enforcing such a measure. New Zealand, which had passed a similar generational smoking ban in 2022, repealed it less than a year later under a new government. The United Kingdom’s proposal for a comparable law, banning tobacco sales to anyone born after 2009, is still under debate in Parliament.

Maldives, with a population of just over half a million, has become the world’s first nation to ban smoking for an entire generation. The new law, effective Nov 1, prohibits anyone born after Jan 1, 2007—including tourists—from buying or using tobacco. All you need to know.

A tiny nation with only 0.528 million population has become the first and the only nation in the world to ban smoking for an entire generation. The curious yet bold move has been taken by the Maldives, an archipelagic country in South Asia. The move officially bans smoking for anyone born after January 1, 2007 and comes into effect from Saturday (Nov 1). The most curious thing? The ban will even apply to those visiting the tiny nation. Here's all you need to know about the Maldives' generational smoking ban. The only nation with a generational prohibition on tobacco The Maldives has officially become the only country in the world to enforce a generational prohibition on tobacco use, the Health Ministry announced Saturday (Nov 1). The ban is part of President Mohamed Muizzu’s broader public health initiative. It prohibits individuals born in 2007 or later from buying, using, or being sold tobacco products anywhere in the island nation. Also read | Fact Check: Did Obama spend $376 million to build a basketball court at the White House? In a statement, the nation's health ministry said, "Under the new provision, individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, are prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products within the Maldives". The new rules apply not only to citizens but also to visitors in the Maldives — a nation of more than 1,100 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean and renowned for its luxury resorts. How will the ban be enforced? According to the health ministry's statement, retailers would now be required to verify age prior to sale. "The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale." This measure aims to "protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation", the ministry said in a statement. Authorities said the ban covers all tobacco products, including cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. The country also noted that it already maintains a blanket ban on the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices for all age groups. Also read | Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown What if someone violates the rule? Violating the new restrictions carries heavy penalties. For retailers, selling tobacco to underage buyers comes with a fine of 50,000 Maldivian rufiyaa (around $3,200), while individuals caught using vape devices could be fined 5,000 rufiyaa ($320). Globally, the Maldives now stands alone in enforcing such a measure. New Zealand, which had passed a similar generational smoking ban in 2022, repealed it less than a year later under a new government. The United Kingdom’s proposal for a comparable law, banning tobacco sales to anyone born after 2009, is still under debate in Parliament.

Maldives, with a population of just over half a million, has become the world’s first nation to ban smoking for an entire generation. The new law, effective Nov 1, prohibits anyone born after Jan 1, 2007—including tourists—from buying or using tobacco. All you need to know.

THIS country has banned smoking for everyone born after 2007 — even tourists

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Saturday revealed that he apologised to US President Donald Trump over an anti-tariff ad featuring former US president Ronald Reagan. Days after Trump announced that he would be hiking tariffs on Canadian goods by an additional 10 per cent and suspended trade talks with the nation, Carney, while talking to the press in the South Korean city of Gyeongju said that "I did apologise to the president. The President was offended." He also said that the US-Canada talks would restart whenever Washington was "ready".&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judges-order-trump-to-keep-food-aid-running-amid-shutdown-don-t-want-americans-to-go-hungry-1761963474050">Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown</a><h2>Why did Trump stop US-Canada trade talks?</h2>The trade relationship between the United States and Canada took an unexpected turn last month, after a decades-old speech by former US president Ronald Reagan triggered a diplomatic storm. It began when Ontario Premier Doug Ford ran an ad in US markets featuring Reagan’s 1987 remarks denouncing tariffs. The video, meant to celebrate cross-border unity, quickly caught Donald Trump’s attention — and his fury. Within hours, Trump announced that all US trade talks with Canada were “terminated.”Soon after, speaking on X, Ford sought to strike a conciliatory tone. "Canada and the United States are friends, neighbours, and allies. President Ronald Reagan knew that we are stronger together," he wrote. But the backlash from Washington grew so intense that Ford later said, after consulting Prime Minister Mark Carney, he would pull the ad campaign by Monday.Ford's office, however, countered that the ad used "an unedited excerpt from one of Reagan’s public addresses, which is available through public domain", and posted a longer version online for transparency.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-to-continue-airing-controversial-ronald-reagan-ad-ontario-premier-said-this-after-trump-suspended-trade-talks-1761360065985">Canada to continue airing controversial Ronald Reagan ad? Ontario Premier said THIS after Trump suspended trade talks</a><h2>What was the ad about?</h2>The one-minute ad featured Reagan saying that "trade barriers hurt every American worker." But Trump accused Canada of running a "fake" and "fraudulent" video, and without offering any evidence to back the claim, declared all trade negotiations suspended. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio added fuel, claiming the clip took Reagan’s words "out of context." The Reagan Foundation joined the criticism, saying Ontario used Reagan’s remarks without permission and "misrepresents" his intent.

Canadian PM Mark Carney said he apologised to Donald Trump over an Ontario ad that used Ronald Reagan’s 1987 anti-tariff speech, which angered Trump and led him to suspend US-Canada trade talks. 

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Saturday revealed that he apologised to US President Donald Trump over an anti-tariff ad featuring former US president Ronald Reagan. Days after Trump announced that he would be hiking tariffs on Canadian goods by an additional 10 per cent and suspended trade talks with the nation, Carney, while talking to the press in the South Korean city of Gyeongju said that "I did apologise to the president. The President was offended." He also said that the US-Canada talks would restart whenever Washington was "ready". Also read | Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown Why did Trump stop US-Canada trade talks? The trade relationship between the United States and Canada took an unexpected turn last month, after a decades-old speech by former US president Ronald Reagan triggered a diplomatic storm. It began when Ontario Premier Doug Ford ran an ad in US markets featuring Reagan’s 1987 remarks denouncing tariffs. The video, meant to celebrate cross-border unity, quickly caught Donald Trump’s attention — and his fury. Within hours, Trump announced that all US trade talks with Canada were “terminated.” Soon after, speaking on X, Ford sought to strike a conciliatory tone. "Canada and the United States are friends, neighbours, and allies. President Ronald Reagan knew that we are stronger together," he wrote. But the backlash from Washington grew so intense that Ford later said, after consulting Prime Minister Mark Carney, he would pull the ad campaign by Monday. Ford's office, however, countered that the ad used "an unedited excerpt from one of Reagan’s public addresses, which is available through public domain", and posted a longer version online for transparency. Also read | Canada to continue airing controversial Ronald Reagan ad? Ontario Premier said THIS after Trump suspended trade talks What was the ad about? The one-minute ad featured Reagan saying that "trade barriers hurt every American worker." But Trump accused Canada of running a "fake" and "fraudulent" video, and without offering any evidence to back the claim, declared all trade negotiations suspended. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio added fuel, claiming the clip took Reagan’s words "out of context." The Reagan Foundation joined the criticism, saying Ontario used Reagan’s remarks without permission and "misrepresents" his intent.

Canadian PM Mark Carney said he apologised to Donald Trump over an Ontario ad that used Ronald Reagan’s 1987 anti-tariff speech, which angered Trump and led him to suspend US-Canada trade talks.&nbsp;

Canada PM Mark Carney reveals he apologised to Trump after Reagan ad derails trade talks

Bhutan, where progress is measured by Gross National Happiness (GNH), is set to next week host a unique event, the Global Peace Prayer Festival. Starting from November 4th, the ambitious 16-day convocation will see a gathering of eminent Buddhist lamas from all schools of Buddhism—within Bhutan and beyond. Among them: the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa, the 9th Gyalwang Drukpa, Dorji Lopen Kinley, His Holiness the Je Khenpo. Je Khenpo is the title of the senior religious hierarchy and chief abbot of Bhutan's Central Monastic Body.In a world riven by war and algorithmic rage, the festival is Bhutan's own way of sending a message of peace. The event, which will take place in Changlimithang stadium and at sacred sites across Thimphu. The program unfolds like a liturgical calendar. From Nov. 4 to 10, the Central Monastic Body will perform the Jabzhi Doechog, an elaborate thread-cross ceremony rarely staged at this scale, intended to bind negative forces and cleanse planetary karma. Simultaneously, nonsectarian prayers will ring out in Dzongkha, in the original Dharma Language, with live translation in English, Tibetan for the global stream.On 10th November, a public blessing ceremony will take place by eminent lamas, and the next day will feature a mass recitation of the Bazaguru mantra—Om Ah Hum Vajra Guru Padma Siddhi Hum—inviting lay participants to add their voices. The centrepiece arrives from November 12-14, the Je Khenpo’s bestowal of the Kalachakra initiation, a profound tantric transmission that maps the universe onto the human body and is considered a spiritual technology for averting catastrophe.Perhaps the most consequential act comes at the close. From Nov. 15 to 19, more than 250 nuns from several countries will receive full "Bhikkhuni ordination" at the Bhutan Nuns Foundation (BNF), only the second such ceremony in the kingdom for the Mahayana Buddhist nuns. Parallel events include scholarly panels on Kalachakra cosmology and an exhibition of rare tangkas depicting mandalas.Hosted by the Royal Government of Bhutan, organisers expect several in-person attendees and millions online. Hosting this festival is the boldest happiness export yet of the country, a Himalayan antidote to a world on fire. &nbsp;The festival's symbol features two Bodhi leaves—the sacred symbol of Buddha's enlightenment under the tree where Siddhartha became the Awakened One—representing awakening, wisdom, and ultimate peace. Positioned opposite each other in golden and white colours, they embody balance, compassion, and unity between East and West. For Bhutan and its citizens, the festival is both homecoming and an outreach.&nbsp;

Bhutan, the country that measures progress by Gross National Happiness, will host the Global Peace Prayer Festival from Nov 4–19. The 16-day event will gather top Buddhist leaders for rare rituals, peace prayers, and the historic ordination of 250 nuns.

Bhutan, where progress is measured by Gross National Happiness (GNH), is set to next week host a unique event, the Global Peace Prayer Festival. Starting from November 4th, the ambitious 16-day convocation will see a gathering of eminent Buddhist lamas from all schools of Buddhism—within Bhutan and beyond. Among them: the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa, the 9th Gyalwang Drukpa, Dorji Lopen Kinley, His Holiness the Je Khenpo. Je Khenpo is the title of the senior religious hierarchy and chief abbot of Bhutan's Central Monastic Body. In a world riven by war and algorithmic rage, the festival is Bhutan's own way of sending a message of peace. The event, which will take place in Changlimithang stadium and at sacred sites across Thimphu. The program unfolds like a liturgical calendar. From Nov. 4 to 10, the Central Monastic Body will perform the Jabzhi Doechog, an elaborate thread-cross ceremony rarely staged at this scale, intended to bind negative forces and cleanse planetary karma. Simultaneously, nonsectarian prayers will ring out in Dzongkha, in the original Dharma Language, with live translation in English, Tibetan for the global stream. On 10th November, a public blessing ceremony will take place by eminent lamas, and the next day will feature a mass recitation of the Bazaguru mantra—Om Ah Hum Vajra Guru Padma Siddhi Hum—inviting lay participants to add their voices. The centrepiece arrives from November 12-14, the Je Khenpo’s bestowal of the Kalachakra initiation, a profound tantric transmission that maps the universe onto the human body and is considered a spiritual technology for averting catastrophe. Perhaps the most consequential act comes at the close. From Nov. 15 to 19, more than 250 nuns from several countries will receive full "Bhikkhuni ordination" at the Bhutan Nuns Foundation (BNF), only the second such ceremony in the kingdom for the Mahayana Buddhist nuns. Parallel events include scholarly panels on Kalachakra cosmology and an exhibition of rare tangkas depicting mandalas. Hosted by the Royal Government of Bhutan, organisers expect several in-person attendees and millions online. Hosting this festival is the boldest happiness export yet of the country, a Himalayan antidote to a world on fire. The festival's symbol features two Bodhi leaves—the sacred symbol of Buddha's enlightenment under the tree where Siddhartha became the Awakened One—representing awakening, wisdom, and ultimate peace. Positioned opposite each other in golden and white colours, they embody balance, compassion, and unity between East and West. For Bhutan and its citizens, the festival is both homecoming and an outreach.

Bhutan, the country that measures progress by Gross National Happiness, will host the Global Peace Prayer Festival from Nov 4–19. The 16-day event will gather top Buddhist leaders for rare rituals, peace prayers, and the historic ordination of 250 nuns.

Buddhist leaders to gather in Bhutan for a unique Global Peace Prayer

As the global economy expands, the labour force size becomes one of the key drivers behind this growth. As of 2024-25, 3.7 billion people globally are part of the labour force, among them approximately 1.28 billion belong to the Asian continent.

Top 10 countries by labour force 2024-25 - China, India, and the US dominate the global job market

US President Donald Trump on Friday took to truth Social to reveal that he has renovated the Lincoln bathroom near the Lincoln Bedroom, on the second floor of the mansion where the Trump lives. He posted several pictures of the bathroom renovated with marble and gold. Prior to the renovation the 80-year-old Lincoln bathroom had pale green tiles and strip lights, according to a picture shared by the US President.&nbsp;The renovated bathroom, according to the pictures posted by Trump, now has gold taps and mirrors, along with lavish white and gray marble walls.&nbsp;"I renovated the Lincoln Bathroom in the White House. It was renovated in the 1940s in an art deco green tile style, which was totally inappropriate for the Lincoln Era," Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;“I did it in black and white polished Statuary marble. This was very appropriate for the time of Abraham Lincoln and, in fact, could be the marble that was originally there!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Before and after of Trump’s latest White House renovation in the Lincoln Bathroom. Incredible. <a href="https://t.co/Ksjm0Bh8Vi">pic.twitter.com/Ksjm0Bh8Vi</a>&mdash; johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) <a href="https://twitter.com/_johnnymaga/status/1984312098277486657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pics of the renovated bathroom have been shared by Trump just days after the demolition of the entire East Wing of the White House in October to build a giant new $300 million ballroom raked up a huge controversy in the country

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Refurbished Lincoln Bathroom in the White House — Highly polished, Statuary marble! <a href="https://t.co/xb46LSpwUo">pic.twitter.com/xb46LSpwUo</a>&mdash; Unofficial Trump on X (@trump_repost) <a href="https://twitter.com/trump_repost/status/1984312136836006121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>About the Bathroom</h2>&nbsp;The renovated Lincoln bathroom is near the Lincoln Bedroom, on the second floor of the mansion where Donald Trump lives.&nbsp;According to the White House Historical Association, the Lincoln Bedroom used to be the late president's office and cabinet room. In 1945 the bedroom was renamed after &nbsp;President Harry Truman ordered furnishings from the Lincoln era to be placed there.&nbsp;Tesla and Space X tycoon Elon Musk has been one of Trump's guest to have slept in the Lincoln Bedroom when he headed Trump's cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency.&nbsp;

Pics of the renovated bathroom have been shared by Trump just days after the demolition of the entire East Wing of the White House in October to build a giant new $300 million ballroom.

US President Donald Trump on Friday took to truth Social to reveal that he has renovated the Lincoln bathroom near the Lincoln Bedroom, on the second floor of the mansion where the Trump lives. He posted several pictures of the bathroom renovated with marble and gold. Prior to the renovation the 80-year-old Lincoln bathroom had pale green tiles and strip lights, according to a picture shared by the US President. The renovated bathroom, according to the pictures posted by Trump, now has gold taps and mirrors, along with lavish white and gray marble walls. "I renovated the Lincoln Bathroom in the White House. It was renovated in the 1940s in an art deco green tile style, which was totally inappropriate for the Lincoln Era," Trump wrote on Truth Social. “I did it in black and white polished Statuary marble. This was very appropriate for the time of Abraham Lincoln and, in fact, could be the marble that was originally there!”

Pics of the renovated bathroom have been shared by Trump just days after the demolition of the entire East Wing of the White House in October to build a giant new $300 million ballroom.

Trump shares pics of Lincoln bathroom renovated in marble and gold

Pakistan has issued visas for over 2,100 Indian Sikh pilgrims for the upcoming birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism. This is the first major cross-border travel in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Indian anti-terror Operation Sindoor in May.<h2>Pakistan High Commission confirms visa issued</h2>The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, as per reports, has confirmed the visas, saying the pilgrims will take part in Gurpurb festivities scheduled from November 4 to 13. Tens of thousands of worshippers are expected to gather in Nankana Sahib, Guru Nanak’s birthplace, located about 85 kilometres west of the India-Pakistan border.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/breaking-india-us-sign-new-10-year-defence-framework-to-boost-military-cooperation-1761885186212">'Our defense ties have never been stronger': India, US sign new 10-year Defence Framework to boost military cooperation</a>The pilgrimage falls under the 1974 India-Pakistan Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, which allows devotees from both sides to travel for key religious events despite political tensions. The visiting jatha, coordinated by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and India’s Ministry of External Affairs, will visit several revered gurdwaras, including Nankana Sahib and Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal.According to Arab News, Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires in India, Saad Ahmad Warraich, while extending his best wishes to the visiting pilgrims, called the journey a "fulfilling and spiritually rewarding" journey. He said Pakistan remained committed to facilitating such visits as part of the nation's "abiding commitment to promoting inter-religious and inter-cultural harmony and understanding".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-first-fruit-of-modi-xi-diplomacy-india-china-direct-flights-resume-after-five-years-of-suspension-all-you-need-to-know-1761532275560">‘First fruit’ of Modi-Xi diplomacy: India-China direct flights resume after five years of suspension. All you need to know</a>The SGPC said it has been coordinating with Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to ensure smooth arrangements for lodging, transport, and security. "This annual pilgrimage reinforces the deep spiritual ties that bind Sikhs across borders and reflects enduring respect for the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji," SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said.The visa announcement marks a rare gesture of goodwill after months of strain between India and Pakistan. In May, a deadly four-day confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbours — triggered by a terror attack in Kashmir — led to missile and drone exchanges that halted all civilian crossings. &nbsp;

Pakistan has granted visas to over 2,100 Indian Sikh pilgrims for Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary celebrations from Nov 4–13. The pilgrimage, the first major cross-border travel since the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, signals a rare goodwill gesture amid tense India-Pakistan ties.

Pakistan has issued visas for over 2,100 Indian Sikh pilgrims for the upcoming birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism. This is the first major cross-border travel in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Indian anti-terror Operation Sindoor in May. Pakistan High Commission confirms visa issued The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, as per reports, has confirmed the visas, saying the pilgrims will take part in Gurpurb festivities scheduled from November 4 to 13. Tens of thousands of worshippers are expected to gather in Nankana Sahib, Guru Nanak’s birthplace, located about 85 kilometres west of the India-Pakistan border. Also read | 'Our defense ties have never been stronger': India, US sign new 10-year Defence Framework to boost military cooperation The pilgrimage falls under the 1974 India-Pakistan Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, which allows devotees from both sides to travel for key religious events despite political tensions. The visiting jatha, coordinated by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and India’s Ministry of External Affairs, will visit several revered gurdwaras, including Nankana Sahib and Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal. According to Arab News, Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires in India, Saad Ahmad Warraich, while extending his best wishes to the visiting pilgrims, called the journey a "fulfilling and spiritually rewarding" journey. He said Pakistan remained committed to facilitating such visits as part of the nation's "abiding commitment to promoting inter-religious and inter-cultural harmony and understanding". Also read | ‘First fruit’ of Modi-Xi diplomacy: India-China direct flights resume after five years of suspension. All you need to know The SGPC said it has been coordinating with Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to ensure smooth arrangements for lodging, transport, and security. "This annual pilgrimage reinforces the deep spiritual ties that bind Sikhs across borders and reflects enduring respect for the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji," SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said. The visa announcement marks a rare gesture of goodwill after months of strain between India and Pakistan. In May, a deadly four-day confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbours — triggered by a terror attack in Kashmir — led to missile and drone exchanges that halted all civilian crossings.

Pakistan has granted visas to over 2,100 Indian Sikh pilgrims for Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary celebrations from Nov 4–13. The pilgrimage, the first major cross-border travel since the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, signals a rare goodwill gesture amid tense India-Pakistan ties.

Post Operation Sindoor, Pakistan grants visas to over 2,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims for Guru Nanak birth anniversary

Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro on Friday (Oct 31) once again accused the United States and its President Donald Trump of trying to impose a "narrative" to justify American attacks against Caracas and to trigger regime change. Addressing a meeting of Caribbean parliamentarians for peace in Caracas, Maduro alleged that the Americans "always want to impose a story, a narrative on us," calling the narrative "slanderous" and "extravagant". This comes as Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, contradicted his earlier comments and denied that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela.<h2>Maduro slams Trump</h2>Speaking at a gathering of Caribbean parliamentarians, he said Washington was trying to portray Venezuela as a hub of international drug trafficking to build a case for military action. Accusing the US of wanting to seize the nation's vast oil wealth, Maduro alleged that the "narrative that American power has chosen against dignified, peaceful and Bolivarian Venezuela is an extravagant, lying and also slanderous narrative".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-provoking-a-war-in-caribbean-venezuela-slams-us-exercises-in-trinidad-claims-arrest-of-cia-backed-mercenaries-1761545584808">Trump 'provoking a war in Caribbean'? Venezuela slams US exercises in Trinidad, claims arrest of CIA-backed mercenaries</a>Maduro accused Washington of trying to justify a war to seize Venezuela’s vast oil and gas reserves. "The truth is that Venezuela is innocent and everything that is being done against Venezuela is to justify a war, a regime change and steal our immense oil wealth, which is the main oil reserve and the fourth gas reserve in the world," he said, urging Venezuelans to remain calm and united.His comments came as tensions between Caracas and Washington continued to rise, with US President Donald Trump denying that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela — a statement that appeared to contradict his earlier remarks.<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Trump had previously told reporters that "the land is going to be next," after the US military targeted several boats in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific as part of its anti-drug operations. Now, on Friday, when asked if he was considering strikes inside Venezuela, he said "no". However, it is unclear if he was ruling out future strikes inside Venezuela or simply saying that his administration is yet to make a final decision.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judges-order-trump-to-keep-food-aid-running-amid-shutdown-don-t-want-americans-to-go-hungry-1761963474050">Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown</a>In recent days, the United States has deployed fighter jets, warships, and thousands of troops across the region in recent months. That presence is set to grow further with the arrival of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group. While the White House insists the buildup is meant to combat Latin American drug cartels, Venezuelan officials have slammed it as preparation for aggression. Since September, US forces have struck at least 14 suspected smuggling vessels, killing 61 people. None of the attacks has taken place within Venezuela’s territorial waters.&nbsp;

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Friday accused the United States of pushing an “extravagant” and “slanderous” narrative to justify an attack and regime change in Caracas.

Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro on Friday (Oct 31) once again accused the United States and its President Donald Trump of trying to impose a "narrative" to justify American attacks against Caracas and to trigger regime change. Addressing a meeting of Caribbean parliamentarians for peace in Caracas, Maduro alleged that the Americans "always want to impose a story, a narrative on us," calling the narrative "slanderous" and "extravagant". This comes as Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, contradicted his earlier comments and denied that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela. Maduro slams Trump Speaking at a gathering of Caribbean parliamentarians, he said Washington was trying to portray Venezuela as a hub of international drug trafficking to build a case for military action. Accusing the US of wanting to seize the nation's vast oil wealth, Maduro alleged that the "narrative that American power has chosen against dignified, peaceful and Bolivarian Venezuela is an extravagant, lying and also slanderous narrative". Also read | Trump 'provoking a war in Caribbean'? Venezuela slams US exercises in Trinidad, claims arrest of CIA-backed mercenaries Maduro accused Washington of trying to justify a war to seize Venezuela’s vast oil and gas reserves. "The truth is that Venezuela is innocent and everything that is being done against Venezuela is to justify a war, a regime change and steal our immense oil wealth, which is the main oil reserve and the fourth gas reserve in the world," he said, urging Venezuelans to remain calm and united. His comments came as tensions between Caracas and Washington continued to rise, with US President Donald Trump denying that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela — a statement that appeared to contradict his earlier remarks. What did Trump say? Trump had previously told reporters that "the land is going to be next," after the US military targeted several boats in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific as part of its anti-drug operations. Now, on Friday, when asked if he was considering strikes inside Venezuela, he said "no". However, it is unclear if he was ruling out future strikes inside Venezuela or simply saying that his administration is yet to make a final decision. Also read | Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown In recent days, the United States has deployed fighter jets, warships, and thousands of troops across the region in recent months. That presence is set to grow further with the arrival of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group. While the White House insists the buildup is meant to combat Latin American drug cartels, Venezuelan officials have slammed it as preparation for aggression. Since September, US forces have struck at least 14 suspected smuggling vessels, killing 61 people. None of the attacks has taken place within Venezuela’s territorial waters.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Friday accused the United States of pushing an “extravagant” and “slanderous” narrative to justify an attack and regime change in Caracas.

Trump says not considering strikes within Venezuela as Maduro accuses US of pushing ‘slanderous narrative’ to justify attack

US President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday (Oct 31) restricted access for credentialed journalists from the core part of the White House press office without a prior appointment. The new rule bars journalists from entering the offices of press secretary Karoline Leavitt and other top communications officials in the West Wing, also known as Upper Press. The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately.Defending the move, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung accused the reporters of “ambushing” cabinet secretaries in the area and secretly recording video and audio.Cheung said on X that “some reporters have been caught secretly recording video and audio of our offices, along with pictures of sensitive info, without permission.”“Cabinet Secretaries routinely come into our office for private meetings, only to be ambushed by reporters waiting outside our doors,” he added, also accusing reporters of “eavesdropping on private, closed-door meetings.” He did not provide any evidence for the accusations.<h2>What did the memo say?</h2>“This memorandum directs the prohibition of press passholders from accessing... ‘Upper Press,’ which is situated adjacent to the Oval Office, without an appointment,” said a memo, addressed to Leavitt and Cheung, from the White House National Security Council (NSC). It added that the decision was aimed at “protecting sensitive material from unauthorized disclosure in Upper Press.”Until now, White House reporters were allowed to visit the area freely, including seeking information or confirming stories from Leavitt or senior press officers. According to the memo, the journalists can now only access the area called “Lower Press”, which is next to the White House briefing room and has more junior press officers’ desks.The new guidelines come amid other restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, including new rules for journalists at the Pentagon that major outlets refused to sign earlier this month.The memo stated that the new restrictions were imposed due to “recent structural changes to the National Security Council”, which meant that White House press officers were now dealing with more sensitive information.The NSC was put under the control of Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the scandal involving the use of the messaging app Signal for discussing strikes on Yemen that led to the resignation of former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately.

US President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday (Oct 31) restricted access for credentialed journalists from the core part of the White House press office without a prior appointment. The new rule bars journalists from entering the offices of press secretary Karoline Leavitt and other top communications officials in the West Wing, also known as Upper Press. The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately. Defending the move, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung accused the reporters of “ambushing” cabinet secretaries in the area and secretly recording video and audio. Cheung said on X that “some reporters have been caught secretly recording video and audio of our offices, along with pictures of sensitive info, without permission.” “Cabinet Secretaries routinely come into our office for private meetings, only to be ambushed by reporters waiting outside our doors,” he added, also accusing reporters of “eavesdropping on private, closed-door meetings.” He did not provide any evidence for the accusations. What did the memo say? “This memorandum directs the prohibition of press passholders from accessing... ‘Upper Press,’ which is situated adjacent to the Oval Office, without an appointment,” said a memo, addressed to Leavitt and Cheung, from the White House National Security Council (NSC). It added that the decision was aimed at “protecting sensitive material from unauthorized disclosure in Upper Press.” Until now, White House reporters were allowed to visit the area freely, including seeking information or confirming stories from Leavitt or senior press officers. According to the memo, the journalists can now only access the area called “Lower Press”, which is next to the White House briefing room and has more junior press officers’ desks. The new guidelines come amid other restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, including new rules for journalists at the Pentagon that major outlets refused to sign earlier this month. The memo stated that the new restrictions were imposed due to “recent structural changes to the National Security Council”, which meant that White House press officers were now dealing with more sensitive information. The NSC was put under the control of Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the scandal involving the use of the messaging app Signal for discussing strikes on Yemen that led to the resignation of former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

The move has been taken to protect “sensitive material” and will take effect immediately.

‘Protecting sensitive material’: White House bars journalists from accessing press secretary’s office

Two federal judges on Friday ordered President Donald Trump’s administration to keep paying for the nation’s largest food assistance program during the ongoing government shutdown, temporarily averting what could have been a devastating blow to millions of Americans. The rulings, issued almost simultaneously in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, require the White House to use emergency reserve funds to sustain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through November. The orders came just as Trump, in a Truth Social post, appeared to issue a lifeline for those in need of the benefits, saying that he didn’t want Americans to “go hungry.” Still, he claimed government lawyers told him the administration lacked the “legal authority to pay” SNAP benefits once funding officially expires on November 1.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refugees-no-longer-welcome-in-us-trump-slashes-intake-reserves-most-slots-for-white-south-africans-1761876942205">Refugees no longer welcome in US? Trump slashes intake, reserves most slots for white South Africans</a><h2>Trump asks for clarification</h2>More than 42 million low-income Americans depend on the SNAP programme—formerly known as food stamps—for their monthly grocery budget. Trump, in a Truth Social post, said "Government lawyers do not think we have the legal authority to pay," but that he has asked them to "clarify how we can legally fund SNAP as soon as possible".

Despite the court orders, uncertainty remains. The judges gave the administration leeway to decide whether to fund the program in full or partially in November, leaving open the possibility of delayed payments for millions of households whose benefit cards are normally recharged at the start of the month.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-trump-47-racks-up-his-first-nobel-president-donald-trump-claims-credit-for-nobel-physics-prize-1761901060616">'Trump 47 racks up his first Nobel'?: President Donald Trump claims credit for Nobel Physics Prize</a>Trump also repeated his pledge to sit down with the Democrats over their demands, but only after the shutdown was over. "We'll meet very quickly, but they have to open up the country," he told reporters before blaming the opposition again, "It's their fault. Everything is their fault. It's so easily solved."

Two judges ordered the Trump administration to keep funding the SNAP food aid program during the shutdown, preventing millions from losing benefits. Meanwhile, Trump said he’s seeking legal clarity on extending payments, though uncertainty remains over full funding for November.

Two federal judges on Friday ordered President Donald Trump’s administration to keep paying for the nation’s largest food assistance program during the ongoing government shutdown, temporarily averting what could have been a devastating blow to millions of Americans. The rulings, issued almost simultaneously in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, require the White House to use emergency reserve funds to sustain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through November. The orders came just as Trump, in a Truth Social post, appeared to issue a lifeline for those in need of the benefits, saying that he didn’t want Americans to “go hungry.” Still, he claimed government lawyers told him the administration lacked the “legal authority to pay” SNAP benefits once funding officially expires on November 1. Also read | Refugees no longer welcome in US? Trump slashes intake, reserves most slots for white South Africans Trump asks for clarification More than 42 million low-income Americans depend on the SNAP programme—formerly known as food stamps—for their monthly grocery budget. Trump, in a Truth Social post, said "Government lawyers do not think we have the legal authority to pay," but that he has asked them to "clarify how we can legally fund SNAP as soon as possible".

Two judges ordered the Trump administration to keep funding the SNAP food aid program during the shutdown, preventing millions from losing benefits. Meanwhile, Trump said he’s seeking legal clarity on extending payments, though uncertainty remains over full funding for November.

Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown

Dutch centrist party D66 won the most votes in Wednesday’s general election, and its 38-year-old leader, Rob Jetten, is on course to become the youngest-ever prime minister in the Netherlands. With almost all votes counted, D66 can no longer be overtaken by the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders, said news agency ANP, which collects the results from all municipalities in the Netherlands. D66 is now expected to take the lead in a first round of talks to form a coalition government, a process that usually takes months. The party secured around 18% of the votes and will need at least three coalition partners for a simple majority in the 150-seat Lower House of Parliament.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-republican-leaders-reject-trump-s-call-to-abolish-senate-filibuster-1761938113604">Several Republican leaders reject Trump’s call to abolish Senate filibuster</a>&nbsp;The pro-EU, liberal D66 tripled its seat count with an upbeat campaign and a surge in advertising spending, while Wilders lost a large part of the support that had propelled him to a shock victory at the previous poll in 2023.The D66—short for Democrats 66, founded in 1966—made significant gains, rising from just nine seats in parliament to 26, and is likely to gain a residual seat, bringing its total to 27.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-usha-has-no-plans-to-convert-jd-vance-clarifies-after-backlash-over-his-remarks-on-wife-s-faith-1761930050390">‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith</a>&nbsp;The election turned out to be a nailbiter, as preliminary results indicated a narrow victory for D66, while the PVV briefly pulled ahead towards the end of the count.Wilders had said he would seek the first crack at forming a coalition if his party gets the most votes though all mainstream parties had ruled out working with him.The final result will be confirmed on Monday, when mail ballots cast by Dutch residents living abroad are counted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-thwarted-potential-terrorist-attack-during-halloween-weekend-kash-patel-1761922083111">FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report</a>&nbsp;The liberal centrist party was last in government during the final term of former PM Mark Rutte, which fell in 2023 following a crisis over asylum. Jetten himself served as minister for climate and energy policy until 2024.

Jetten campaigned hard for a return to “progressive” politics, focusing on green energy to keep energy costs down, building cities to tackle the housing crisis and easing the strain on the healthcare system by prioritising illness prevention.&nbsp;WATCH: Nuclear brinkmanship returns as east-west tensions explode<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nuclear-brinkmanship-returns-as-east-west-tensions-explode-1761935880890/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nuclear-brinkmanship-returns-as-east-west-tensions-explode-1761935880890/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The pro-EU, liberal D66 tripled its seat count with an upbeat campaign and heavy advertising spending, while Wilders lost a large part of the support that had propelled him to a shock victory at the previous poll in 2023. The D66—short for Democrats 66, founded in 1966—made significant gains.

Dutch centrist party D66 won the most votes in Wednesday’s general election, and its 38-year-old leader, Rob Jetten, is on course to become the youngest-ever prime minister in the Netherlands. With almost all votes counted, D66 can no longer be overtaken by the far-right Freedom Party (PVV) led by Geert Wilders, said news agency ANP, which collects the results from all municipalities in the Netherlands. D66 is now expected to take the lead in a first round of talks to form a coalition government, a process that usually takes months. The party secured around 18% of the votes and will need at least three coalition partners for a simple majority in the 150-seat Lower House of Parliament. Also Read: Several Republican leaders reject Trump’s call to abolish Senate filibuster The pro-EU, liberal D66 tripled its seat count with an upbeat campaign and a surge in advertising spending, while Wilders lost a large part of the support that had propelled him to a shock victory at the previous poll in 2023. The D66—short for Democrats 66, founded in 1966—made significant gains, rising from just nine seats in parliament to 26, and is likely to gain a residual seat, bringing its total to 27. Also Read: ‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith The election turned out to be a nailbiter, as preliminary results indicated a narrow victory for D66, while the PVV briefly pulled ahead towards the end of the count. Wilders had said he would seek the first crack at forming a coalition if his party gets the most votes though all mainstream parties had ruled out working with him. The final result will be confirmed on Monday, when mail ballots cast by Dutch residents living abroad are counted. Also Read: FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report The liberal centrist party was last in government during the final term of former PM Mark Rutte, which fell in 2023 following a crisis over asylum. Jetten himself served as minister for climate and energy policy until 2024.

The pro-EU, liberal D66 tripled its seat count with an upbeat campaign and heavy advertising spending, while Wilders lost a large part of the support that had propelled him to a shock victory at the previous poll in 2023. The D66—short for Democrats 66, founded in 1966—made significant gains.

Dutch centrist D66 party wins most votes; Rob Jetten likely to become youngest PM

President Donald Trump’s push to Senate Republicans for abolishing the 60-vote filibuster rule in order to reopen the shuttered government without Democratic votes is facing a firm resistance from his own party leaders, a rarity for the president in his second term so far. In late-night social media posts on Thursday, Trump wrote, “It is now time for the Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD,’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option—Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW!” &nbsp;“Well, now WE are in power, and if we did what we should be doing, it would IMMEDIATELY end this ridiculous, Country destroying ‘SHUT DOWN.’” However, the top two Republican leaders in Congress are showing no interest in taking the unprecedented step of ending the legislative filibuster.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-usha-has-no-plans-to-convert-jd-vance-clarifies-after-backlash-over-his-remarks-on-wife-s-faith-1761930050390">‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith</a>&nbsp;In perhaps the clearest possible signal to the White House that Senate Majority Leader John Thune would not change Senate rules to end the already 31-day stalemate, a spokesman said the Republican leader remained unmoved.“Leader Thune’s position on the importance of the legislative filibuster is unchanged,” Thune spokesperson Ryan Wrasse said.Even House Speaker Mike Johnson—who rarely breaks with Trump in public—was cautious about keeping the filibuster intact.&nbsp;<h2>‘Filibuster a very important safeguard’: Speaker Mike Johnson</h2>&nbsp;“The filibuster has traditionally been used as a very important safeguard,” Johnson said, noting that his opinion is “not relevant” since it is a Senate-only issue. But he warned that Democrats would use the move to pass extreme measures the next time they control the upper chamber and said that Trump’s late-night Truth Social post on the filibuster was an “expression of the president’s anger at this situation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-thwarted-potential-terrorist-attack-during-halloween-weekend-kash-patel-1761922083111">FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report</a>&nbsp;Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch.&nbsp;<h2>‘Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post on X, Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, said on Friday that he was a “firm no” on getting rid of the filibuster. “The filibuster forces us to find common ground in the Senate,” Curtis said. “Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t. I’m a firm no on eliminating it.”The talk about the filibuster started on Capitol Hill even before Trump’s comments when Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, appeared on Fox News soon after the shutdown started and urged his party to eliminate the filibuster.However, various Republican leaders have voiced opposition to the move, including Moreno’s fellow Ohio senator.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-says-he-hopes-his-wife-usha-a-hindu-converts-to-christianity-eventually-1761835421337">JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually</a> Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., who asserted that he would resign from the Senate on the same day if Republicans abolish the filibuster, said he doesn’t expect it to be nixed. He recalled that Trump wanted the GOP to eliminate the 60-vote threshold in his first presidential term also in order to pass his agenda.“We stood firm there. “I can’t imagine anybody changing now,” Tillis said earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slashes-refugee-cap-to-7-500-mostly-for-afrikaners-in-huge-cut-from-biden-era-1761850616227">Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era</a>&nbsp;The filibuster rule is unique to the Senate, and it gives the minority the power to block a bill from coming up for a vote as long as at least 41 senators oppose it. Since one party rarely wins more than 60 seats, proponents have argued that the filibuster encourages compromise and makes it more difficult to enact massive partisan reforms.&nbsp;WATCH: How the White House runs during a US shutdown<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-white-house-runs-during-a-us-shutdown-1761932278848/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-white-house-runs-during-a-us-shutdown-1761932278848/embed</a>&nbsp;

Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills. The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch.

President Donald Trump’s push to Senate Republicans for abolishing the 60-vote filibuster rule in order to reopen the shuttered government without Democratic votes is facing a firm resistance from his own party leaders, a rarity for the president in his second term so far. In late-night social media posts on Thursday, Trump wrote, “It is now time for the Republicans to play their ‘TRUMP CARD,’ and go for what is called the Nuclear Option—Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW!” “Well, now WE are in power, and if we did what we should be doing, it would IMMEDIATELY end this ridiculous, Country destroying ‘SHUT DOWN.’” However, the top two Republican leaders in Congress are showing no interest in taking the unprecedented step of ending the legislative filibuster. Also Read: ‘Usha has no plans to convert…’: JD Vance clarifies after backlash over his remarks on wife’s faith In perhaps the clearest possible signal to the White House that Senate Majority Leader John Thune would not change Senate rules to end the already 31-day stalemate, a spokesman said the Republican leader remained unmoved. “Leader Thune’s position on the importance of the legislative filibuster is unchanged,” Thune spokesperson Ryan Wrasse said. Even House Speaker Mike Johnson—who rarely breaks with Trump in public—was cautious about keeping the filibuster intact. ‘Filibuster a very important safeguard’: Speaker Mike Johnson “The filibuster has traditionally been used as a very important safeguard,” Johnson said, noting that his opinion is “not relevant” since it is a Senate-only issue. But he warned that Democrats would use the move to pass extreme measures the next time they control the upper chamber and said that Trump’s late-night Truth Social post on the filibuster was an “expression of the president’s anger at this situation.” Also Read: FBI thwarted ‘potential terrorist attack’ during Halloween weekend, arrests tied to international terrorism: Report Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills. The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch. ‘Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t’ In a post on X, Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, said on Friday that he was a “firm no” on getting rid of the filibuster. “The filibuster forces us to find common ground in the Senate,” Curtis said. “Power changes hands, but principles shouldn’t. I’m a firm no on eliminating it.” The talk about the filibuster started on Capitol Hill even before Trump’s comments when Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, appeared on Fox News soon after the shutdown started and urged his party to eliminate the filibuster. However, various Republican leaders have voiced opposition to the move, including Moreno’s fellow Ohio senator. Also Read: JD Vance says he hopes his wife Usha, a Hindu, converts to Christianity eventually Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., who asserted that he would resign from the Senate on the same day if Republicans abolish the filibuster, said he doesn’t expect it to be nixed. He recalled that Trump wanted the GOP to eliminate the 60-vote threshold in his first presidential term also in order to pass his agenda. “We stood firm there. “I can’t imagine anybody changing now,” Tillis said earlier. Also Read: Trump sets refugee cap at record low of 7,500, mostly for Afrikaners, in huge cut from Biden era The filibuster rule is unique to the Senate, and it gives the minority the power to block a bill from coming up for a vote as long as at least 41 senators oppose it. Since one party rarely wins more than 60 seats, proponents have argued that the filibuster encourages compromise and makes it more difficult to enact massive partisan reforms. WATCH: How the White House runs during a US shutdown https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-the-white-house-runs-during-a-us-shutdown-1761932278848/embed

Senate Republican leaders have been candid in their support for the 60-vote rule to pass most bills. The new Majority Leader, John Thune, had promised shortly after the 2024 election that the legislative filibuster would remain unchanged on his watch.

Several Republican leaders reject Trump’s call to abolish Senate filibuster

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news

world news

Meeting with Xi will bring 'everlasting peace': US, China de-escalate trade tension, suspend retaliatory tariffs

All Souls’ Day 2025: Know the origin, significance, and modern-day observance

'Wipe out the Islamic terrorists': Trump threatens military action in Nigeria

10 injured, 9 critical after mass stabbing on London-bound train; 2 arrested

India’s shipyards set sail for global ambition as key pacts inked

‘India wants to keep Pakistan busy, engaged in conflict’: Def Min Khawaja Asif

Hamas accuses Israel of organ theft - AND it's not the first time

Why 9M729 cruise missile controversial? All about the weapon

How Republicans are divided on supporting 42 million SNAP beneficiaries

‘Why not reciprocate and engage with Hinduism too,’ Hindu body asks JD Vance

Leaked video shows Israeli official abusing Palestinian detainee

Which countries don’t have a constitution? How do they operate?

Tanzania President Samia wins, bags 98% votes; hundreds feared dead in unrest

Russia uses 9M729 cruise missile on Ukraine, Zelensky’s FM claims. Here’s why it’s concerning for Trump

Did Russia and China pressure India to exit from Tajikistan’s Ayni base?

THIS country has banned smoking for everyone born after 2007 — even tourists

Canada PM Mark Carney reveals he apologised to Trump over Reagan ad

Buddhist leaders to gather in Bhutan for a unique Global Peace Prayer

Top 10 countries by labour force 2024-25: China Leads, India 2nd, US 3rd

Trump shares pics of Lincoln bathroom renovated in marble and gold

Post Op Sindoor, Pakistan grants visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for Gurpurb

Maduro claims US pushing ‘slanderous’ narrative to justify attack on Venezuela

White House bars journalists from accessing press secretary’s office

Trump says 'don’t want Americans hungry’ as judges order food aid to continue

Dutch centrist D66 party wins most votes; Rob Jetten likely to be youngest PM

Several Republican leaders reject Trump’s call to abolish Senate filibuster