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Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday (Oct 29) confirmed in a rare interview that she is in New Delhi but she would return to her country when a ‘legitimate’ government will be formed. This is the first time in over an year that the Bangladeshi leader has confirmed her whereabouts. Speaking to Reuters, she also said that millions of supporters of Bangladesh’s Awami League will boycott next year’s national election, after the party was barred from contesting the polls. The Indian government has not commented on her interview yet. Muhammad Yunus' interim government announced that elections in Bangladesh will be held in February.&nbsp;Asked about her return to Dhaka, Hasina, whose father and three brothers were killed in a 1975 military coup, said she lives “freely in Delhi” but “would love to go home” if “law and order genuinely prevailed.” “It’s really not about me or my family. For Bangladesh to achieve the future we all want, there must be a return to constitutional rule and political stability. No single person or family defines our country’s future," Hasina said. “I would of course love to go home, so long as the government there was legitimate, the constitution was being upheld, and law and order genuinely prevailed,” she added.&nbsp;In emailed responses to Reuters, Hasina slammed the interim government for banning the electoral participation of &nbsp;Awami League and called it “self-defeating.” “The next government must have electoral legitimacy. Millions of people support the Awami League, so as things stand, they will not vote. We are not asking Awami League voters to support other parties. We still hope common sense will prevail and we will be allowed to contest the election ourselves," Hasina said.&nbsp;According to Reuters, the International Crimes Tribunal, Bangladesh's domestic war crimes court, has concluded proceedings against Hasina, who faces charges of crimes against humanity over the violent crackdown on student protests in mid-2024. A verdict is expected on November 13. Hasina denied the charges, saying she was not personally involved in the use of lethal force or other alleged crimes. “These proceedings are a politically motivated charade,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ousted ex-PM Sheikh Hasina said millions of Awami League supporters will boycott Bangladesh’s 2025 election after her party was banned. From India, she called the ban unjust, denied war crimes charges, and vowed not to return until elections are fair and constitutional rule restored.

Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday (Oct 29) confirmed in a rare interview that she is in New Delhi but she would return to her country when a ‘legitimate’ government will be formed. This is the first time in over an year that the Bangladeshi leader has confirmed her whereabouts. Speaking to Reuters, she also said that millions of supporters of Bangladesh’s Awami League will boycott next year’s national election, after the party was barred from contesting the polls. The Indian government has not commented on her interview yet. Muhammad Yunus' interim government announced that elections in Bangladesh will be held in February. Asked about her return to Dhaka, Hasina, whose father and three brothers were killed in a 1975 military coup, said she lives “freely in Delhi” but “would love to go home” if “law and order genuinely prevailed.” “It’s really not about me or my family. For Bangladesh to achieve the future we all want, there must be a return to constitutional rule and political stability. No single person or family defines our country’s future," Hasina said. “I would of course love to go home, so long as the government there was legitimate, the constitution was being upheld, and law and order genuinely prevailed,” she added. In emailed responses to Reuters, Hasina slammed the interim government for banning the electoral participation of Awami League and called it “self-defeating.” “The next government must have electoral legitimacy. Millions of people support the Awami League, so as things stand, they will not vote. We are not asking Awami League voters to support other parties. We still hope common sense will prevail and we will be allowed to contest the election ourselves," Hasina said. According to Reuters, the International Crimes Tribunal, Bangladesh's domestic war crimes court, has concluded proceedings against Hasina, who faces charges of crimes against humanity over the violent crackdown on student protests in mid-2024. A verdict is expected on November 13. Hasina denied the charges, saying she was not personally involved in the use of lethal force or other alleged crimes. “These proceedings are a politically motivated charade,” she said.

Ousted ex-PM Sheikh Hasina said millions of Awami League supporters will boycott Bangladesh’s 2025 election after her party was banned. From India, she called the ban unjust, denied war crimes charges, and vowed not to return until elections are fair and constitutional rule restored.

'Would love to go home if...': Ousted Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina confirms she is in Delhi

A day after its airstrikes killed over 100 people in Gaza, the Israeli military said that it will abide by the US-brokered ceasefire with Hamas. Following the reported killing of an Israeli soldier in southern Gaza’s Rafah on Tuesday, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu ordered “powerful strikes” on Gaza. The US defended Israeli action and expressed confidence that ceasefire will hold. Meanwhile, Hamas paused the hostage transfer citing breach of the truce. Regional mediator Qatar expressed frustration over the developments but urged parties to follow the deal.&nbsp;“In accordance with the directive of the political echelon, and following a series of strikes, in which dozens of terror targets and terrorists were struck, the IDF has begun the renewed enforcement of the ceasefire after Hamas violated it,” the military said in a statement. “The IDF will continue to uphold the ceasefire agreement and will respond firmly to any violation of it,” it added.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-israelis-should-hit-back-because-trump-breaks-silence-after-gaza-airstrikes-says-this-about-ceasefire-with-hamas-1761707697957">‘Israelis should hit back because…’: Trump breaks silence after Gaza airstrikes, says THIS about ceasefire with Hamas</a>&nbsp;Earlier on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump, aboard Air Force One while flying to South Korea, issued his first response on the broken ceasefire between Hamas and Israel that he brokered weeks ago. Dismissing any possibility of resumption of war, Trump said that “nothing would jeopardise ceasefire” in Gaza. However, he backed Israel's right to hit back. Trump said, “They killed an Israeli soldier. So the Israelis hit back. And they should hit back.”&nbsp;Earlier, US Vice President JD Vance expressed confidence that ceasefire will hold. Calling the latest attack by Israel and rising tensions with Hamas as “little skirmishes,” Vance said that Trump's peace is still holding. "The ceasefire is holding. That doesn't mean that there aren't going to be little skirmishes here and there," Vance said. Speaking to reporters, Vance added that Hamas or “somebody else” attacked an Israeli soldier, due to which Tel Aviv was responding.&nbsp;

Israel resumed airstrikes in Gaza after a soldier’s killing, then agreed to uphold the US-brokered ceasefire. The US defended Israel, with Trump saying Israel “should hit back” but insisted the truce stands. Hamas paused hostage transfers, and Qatar urged both sides to honor the deal.

A day after its airstrikes killed over 100 people in Gaza, the Israeli military said that it will abide by the US-brokered ceasefire with Hamas. Following the reported killing of an Israeli soldier in southern Gaza’s Rafah on Tuesday, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu ordered “powerful strikes” on Gaza. The US defended Israeli action and expressed confidence that ceasefire will hold. Meanwhile, Hamas paused the hostage transfer citing breach of the truce. Regional mediator Qatar expressed frustration over the developments but urged parties to follow the deal. “In accordance with the directive of the political echelon, and following a series of strikes, in which dozens of terror targets and terrorists were struck, the IDF has begun the renewed enforcement of the ceasefire after Hamas violated it,” the military said in a statement. “The IDF will continue to uphold the ceasefire agreement and will respond firmly to any violation of it,” it added. Read More | ‘Israelis should hit back because…’: Trump breaks silence after Gaza airstrikes, says THIS about ceasefire with Hamas Earlier on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump, aboard Air Force One while flying to South Korea, issued his first response on the broken ceasefire between Hamas and Israel that he brokered weeks ago. Dismissing any possibility of resumption of war, Trump said that “nothing would jeopardise ceasefire” in Gaza. However, he backed Israel's right to hit back. Trump said, “They killed an Israeli soldier. So the Israelis hit back. And they should hit back.” Earlier, US Vice President JD Vance expressed confidence that ceasefire will hold. Calling the latest attack by Israel and rising tensions with Hamas as “little skirmishes,” Vance said that Trump's peace is still holding. "The ceasefire is holding. That doesn't mean that there aren't going to be little skirmishes here and there," Vance said. Speaking to reporters, Vance added that Hamas or “somebody else” attacked an Israeli soldier, due to which Tel Aviv was responding.

Israel resumed airstrikes in Gaza after a soldier’s killing, then agreed to uphold the US-brokered ceasefire. The US defended Israel, with Trump saying Israel “should hit back” but insisted the truce stands. Hamas paused hostage transfers, and Qatar urged both sides to honor the deal.

'Will respond firmly to any violation': Israel restores ceasefire with Hamas after killing over 100 in Gaza, issues warning

On Wednesday (Oct 29), two suspects in the Louvre heist have “partially” admitted their involvement. A robbery that shocked not only France but the world over. The museum houses Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa and attracts tourists and locals alike and is a hub for art enthusiasts. A Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, informed about the intention of the men, who broke through the world’s most visited museum. At a press conference, she said, "they are expected to be held in provisional detention."&nbsp;On October 22, days after the heist at France’s Louvre museum, the director Laurence des Cars admitted to inadequate camera surveillance. In the daylight robbery, thieves took away prized jewels worth $102 million from the premises in less than 10 minutes. She also said that the diamond- and emerald-studded crown, which was dropped and damaged during the robbery, could be restored.&nbsp;Speaking for the first time after the heist, the museum director told French lawmakers, “Despite our efforts, despite our hard work on a daily basis, we failed.”<h2>What all was stolen in Louvre robbery?</h2>&nbsp;As per a report by Bloomberg, the robbers stole a total of eight royal artifacts which included: a sapphire diadem, necklace, and single earring from a matching set linked to 19th-century French queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense; an emerald necklace and earrings from Empress Marie-Louise, second wife Napoleon Bonaparte; a reliquary brooch; Empress Eugénie’s diadem; and her large corsage-bow brooch.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thieves-used-cherry-picker-angle-grinder-in-7-minute-louvre-museum-heist-pulled-off-like-a-breeze-1760880195775">Thieves used ‘cherry picker’, ‘angle grinder’ in 7-minute Louvre Museum heist, pulled off like a breeze</a>&nbsp;The crown of Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, however, has been found by the authorities in damaged condition near the museum. The crown has 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds, and golden eagles, as per the museum website.

A Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, informed about the intention of the men, who broke through the world’s most visited museum. At a press conference, she said, "they are expected to be held in provisional detention."

On Wednesday (Oct 29), two suspects in the Louvre heist have “partially” admitted their involvement. A robbery that shocked not only France but the world over. The museum houses Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa and attracts tourists and locals alike and is a hub for art enthusiasts. A Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, informed about the intention of the men, who broke through the world’s most visited museum. At a press conference, she said, "they are expected to be held in provisional detention." On October 22, days after the heist at France’s Louvre museum, the director Laurence des Cars admitted to inadequate camera surveillance. In the daylight robbery, thieves took away prized jewels worth $102 million from the premises in less than 10 minutes. She also said that the diamond- and emerald-studded crown, which was dropped and damaged during the robbery, could be restored. Speaking for the first time after the heist, the museum director told French lawmakers, “Despite our efforts, despite our hard work on a daily basis, we failed.” What all was stolen in Louvre robbery? As per a report by Bloomberg, the robbers stole a total of eight royal artifacts which included: a sapphire diadem, necklace, and single earring from a matching set linked to 19th-century French queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense; an emerald necklace and earrings from Empress Marie-Louise, second wife Napoleon Bonaparte; a reliquary brooch; Empress Eugénie’s diadem; and her large corsage-bow brooch. Also read: Thieves used ‘cherry picker’, ‘angle grinder’ in 7-minute Louvre Museum heist, pulled off like a breeze The crown of Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, however, has been found by the authorities in damaged condition near the museum. The crown has 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds, and golden eagles, as per the museum website.

A Paris prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, informed about the intention of the men, who broke through the world’s most visited museum. At a press conference, she said, "they are expected to be held in provisional detention."

Two suspects of Louvre heist have 'partially' admitted to their involvement

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-point for the second time this year, a step that could bring some financial relief to consumers and businesses but also runs some risk as inflation has been creeping up. The central bank said in a statement while making the rate-cut announcement that though the economic activity has been expanding, jobs growth had slowed and inflation had gone up. &nbsp;The rate cut will reduce the cost of borrowing in the economy and will have immediate effects on auto loans and credit cards and even though mortgage rates are not directly tied to the benchmark rate, they often move in parallel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nvidia-scripts-history-becomes-first-firm-to-reach-5-trillion-market-value-following-ai-boom-1761748694795">Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value</a>&nbsp;Fed Chair Jerome Powell cautioned in a press conference that the government shutdown, which started Oct. 1, would weigh on economic activity as it drags on but added that those effects would reverse once it ends.&nbsp;Deadlines for funding food assistance and salaries for federal workers, including air-traffic controllers and TSA agents, are set to hit this week, while Congress remains in a stalemate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-push-them-back-into-caves-tails-between-their-legs-pak-minister-says-will-obliterate-afghan-taliban-1761741971619">Will push them back into caves…tails between their legs’: Pak minister says will ‘obliterate’ Afghan Taliban</a>&nbsp;The rate cut comes as the US economy is grappling with a slowing labour market and stubborn price growth. Several major companies have announced thousands of job cuts, while many government workers remain furloughed due to shutdown. As per federal data, price growth in September was at its highest point since January.The Fed’s next rate decision is scheduled for Dec. 10. Powell said that there were “strongly differing views” about what the Fed should do at its next meeting.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-admits-country-s-past-role-in-supporting-afghanistan-taliban-1761755033225">Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban</a>&nbsp;“Policy is not on a preset course,” Powell said.Usually, when the labour market slows down, lower rates spur economic activity, and during rising inflation, the Fed hikes rates to curb rising prices. The Fed faces a dilemma currently when data simultaneously shows a weakening employment and price rise.Lower interest rates sometimes worsen inflation by increasing overall economic activity.&nbsp;Jobs data suggests the US is experiencing one of the weakest labour markets of the 21st century. Stocks were moderately higher after the announcement Wednesday.&nbsp;WATCH: Strategic Shift By Trump Administration Rattles European Allies<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/strategic-shift-by-trump-administration-rattles-european-allies-1761764882579/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/strategic-shift-by-trump-administration-rattles-european-allies-1761764882579/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Usually, when the labour market slows down, lower rates spur economic activity, and during rising inflation, the Fed hikes rates to curb rising prices. The Fed faces a dilemma currently when data simultaneously shows a weakening employment and price rise.

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-point for the second time this year, a step that could bring some financial relief to consumers and businesses but also runs some risk as inflation has been creeping up. The central bank said in a statement while making the rate-cut announcement that though the economic activity has been expanding, jobs growth had slowed and inflation had gone up. The rate cut will reduce the cost of borrowing in the economy and will have immediate effects on auto loans and credit cards and even though mortgage rates are not directly tied to the benchmark rate, they often move in parallel. Also Read: Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value Fed Chair Jerome Powell cautioned in a press conference that the government shutdown, which started Oct. 1, would weigh on economic activity as it drags on but added that those effects would reverse once it ends. Deadlines for funding food assistance and salaries for federal workers, including air-traffic controllers and TSA agents, are set to hit this week, while Congress remains in a stalemate. Also Read: Will push them back into caves…tails between their legs’: Pak minister says will ‘obliterate’ Afghan Taliban The rate cut comes as the US economy is grappling with a slowing labour market and stubborn price growth. Several major companies have announced thousands of job cuts, while many government workers remain furloughed due to shutdown. As per federal data, price growth in September was at its highest point since January. The Fed’s next rate decision is scheduled for Dec. 10. Powell said that there were “strongly differing views” about what the Fed should do at its next meeting. Also Read: Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban “Policy is not on a preset course,” Powell said. Usually, when the labour market slows down, lower rates spur economic activity, and during rising inflation, the Fed hikes rates to curb rising prices. The Fed faces a dilemma currently when data simultaneously shows a weakening employment and price rise. Lower interest rates sometimes worsen inflation by increasing overall economic activity. Jobs data suggests the US is experiencing one of the weakest labour markets of the 21st century. Stocks were moderately higher after the announcement Wednesday. WATCH: Strategic Shift By Trump Administration Rattles European Allies https://www.wionews.com/videos/strategic-shift-by-trump-administration-rattles-european-allies-1761764882579/embed

Usually, when the labour market slows down, lower rates spur economic activity, and during rising inflation, the Fed hikes rates to curb rising prices. The Fed faces a dilemma currently when data simultaneously shows a weakening employment and price rise.

Federal Reserve cuts key rate for the second time amid hiring slowdown, rising prices and shutdown

At the seventh Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2025, diplomats and naval experts highlighted deepening partnerships in maritime infrastructure and regional cooperation to counter escalating security challenges across the Indian Ocean and beyond.German Ambassador Dr. Philipp Ackermann praised India's rapid naval buildup as a cornerstone for bilateral collaboration. "I think when we talk about capacities and capabilities, India and Germany are a good match, because you also have capacities and capabilities". He added,&nbsp; "India has them in the region, you know, in a very, very impressive way. And when you look at India, the speed at which you build up this maritime infrastructure is quite fantastic," and it is "getting better by the year, I would say. And that's one anchor, I would say, that really makes us good partners, because we can, together with our Indian partners, use this infrastructure in order to pursue our common goals in the Indo Pacific." The dialogue focused on India's role in bridging Western and Eastern Indian Ocean dynamics through subregional frameworks. BIMSTEC Secretary General Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey positioned the organization as a vital connector. "Cooperation in the Indo Pacific, when we actually want to forge at the ground level, it will happen through regional and sub-regional organisation. So BIMSTEC, located in the center of Indo Pacific, on one side we have the Indian Ocean Rim Association, Indian Ocean commission and some other organizations. On the other side we have ASEAN, Pacific Islands Forum and a number of other organizations, like the Mekong ganga Cooperation Framework".&nbsp;The solution, he argued, is deliberate bridge-building. BIMSTEC has already signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Ocean Rim Association “so that we can work together in the areas where we have convergence,” he noted. Launched in 1997, the BIMSTEC group began with two Southeast Asian members—Myanmar and Thailand—alongside three from South Asia: India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Nepal and Bhutan joined later,Southern Africa's vulnerabilities added urgency to the discussions. Captain Mark Blaine (Retd), South African Navy, detailed spillover risks threatening coastal stability. "Southern African Development Community or SADC littoral states face spill-over threats from the Red Sea, Horn of Africa and Gulf of Guinea, while land volatility in DR Congo, Mozambique and Angola—and political turmoil in Mozambique, DR Congo and Madagascar—compounds insecurity at&nbsp;sea," Blaine noted. On governance, he pointed out that SADC maritime cooperation is anchored by the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security and its Ministerial Committee, supported by the SADC Standing Maritime Committee and defence sub-committees.Hosted by India's National Maritime Foundation and the Indian Navy, the IPRD convened over 20 nations to address piracy, illegal fishing, and geopolitical tensions. Speakers emphasized joint exercises, technology sharing, and inclusive forums like BIMSTEC to build resilience.

The dialogue focused on Indian role in bridging Western and Eastern Indian Ocean dynamics through subregional frameworks. BIMSTEC Secretary General Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey positioned the organization as a vital connector.

At the seventh Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2025, diplomats and naval experts highlighted deepening partnerships in maritime infrastructure and regional cooperation to counter escalating security challenges across the Indian Ocean and beyond. German Ambassador Dr. Philipp Ackermann praised India's rapid naval buildup as a cornerstone for bilateral collaboration. "I think when we talk about capacities and capabilities, India and Germany are a good match, because you also have capacities and capabilities". He added, "India has them in the region, you know, in a very, very impressive way. And when you look at India, the speed at which you build up this maritime infrastructure is quite fantastic," and it is "getting better by the year, I would say. And that's one anchor, I would say, that really makes us good partners, because we can, together with our Indian partners, use this infrastructure in order to pursue our common goals in the Indo Pacific." The dialogue focused on India's role in bridging Western and Eastern Indian Ocean dynamics through subregional frameworks. BIMSTEC Secretary General Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey positioned the organization as a vital connector. "Cooperation in the Indo Pacific, when we actually want to forge at the ground level, it will happen through regional and sub-regional organisation. So BIMSTEC, located in the center of Indo Pacific, on one side we have the Indian Ocean Rim Association, Indian Ocean commission and some other organizations. On the other side we have ASEAN, Pacific Islands Forum and a number of other organizations, like the Mekong ganga Cooperation Framework". The solution, he argued, is deliberate bridge-building. BIMSTEC has already signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Ocean Rim Association “so that we can work together in the areas where we have convergence,” he noted. Launched in 1997, the BIMSTEC group began with two Southeast Asian members—Myanmar and Thailand—alongside three from South Asia: India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Nepal and Bhutan joined later, Southern Africa's vulnerabilities added urgency to the discussions. Captain Mark Blaine (Retd), South African Navy, detailed spillover risks threatening coastal stability. "Southern African Development Community or SADC littoral states face spill-over threats from the Red Sea, Horn of Africa and Gulf of Guinea, while land volatility in DR Congo, Mozambique and Angola—and political turmoil in Mozambique, DR Congo and Madagascar—compounds insecurity at sea," Blaine noted. On governance, he pointed out that SADC maritime cooperation is anchored by the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security and its Ministerial Committee, supported by the SADC Standing Maritime Committee and defence sub-committees. Hosted by India's National Maritime Foundation and the Indian Navy, the IPRD convened over 20 nations to address piracy, illegal fishing, and geopolitical tensions. Speakers emphasized joint exercises, technology sharing, and inclusive forums like BIMSTEC to build resilience.

The dialogue focused on India's role in bridging Western and Eastern Indian Ocean dynamics through subregional frameworks. BIMSTEC Secretary General Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey positioned the organization as a vital connector.

India, Germany, and BIMSTEC focus on maritime ties at Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue

The Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, the mother of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, said in an old interview that her then 21-year-old son was "not an American at all." The old video has resurfaced, creating a buzz online. The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.In a 2013 interview, the filmmaker said about Mamdani that "he is a total desi". At the time, Mamdani was attending Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and was pushing for academic sanctions against Israel."Completely. We are not firangs at all. He is very much us. He is not an Uhmericcan (American) at all. He was born in Uganda, raised between India and America. He is at home in many places. He thinks of himself as a Ugandan and as an Indian."'Firang' is a term used in Hindu and Urdu for foreigners or Westerners.But Mehek Cooke, an attorney born in India who serves as a GOP consultant and commentator, told Fox News Digital that the word is not "some harmless cultural term," but rather a "slur.""It’s the word used back in India to mock outsiders, to say you don’t belong," Cooke said.This came amid a conservative campaign finance watchdog accused Mamdani's campaign of receiving donations from foreign donors. The Coolidge Reagan Foundation filed two criminal referrals, one with the US Department of Justice's Criminal Division and another with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, alleging that Mamdani violated the Federal Election Campaign Act and the New York Election Law by accepting contributions.Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States. The donation also includes from his mother-in-law in Dubai. However, some of the funds were returned, while about 88 donations costing around $7,190 remain due.Meanwhile, the US federal law bars foreign nationals from contributing to American political campaigns, with violations carrying potential fines or criminal charges. The watchdog alleged that Zohran Mamdani’s campaign showed a “systematic failure to comply” with campaign finance regulations. &nbsp;

The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.

The Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, the mother of New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, said in an old interview that her then 21-year-old son was "not an American at all." The old video has resurfaced, creating a buzz online. The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States. In a 2013 interview, the filmmaker said about Mamdani that "he is a total desi". At the time, Mamdani was attending Bowdoin College, where he co-founded the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and was pushing for academic sanctions against Israel. "Completely. We are not firangs at all. He is very much us. He is not an Uhmericcan (American) at all. He was born in Uganda, raised between India and America. He is at home in many places. He thinks of himself as a Ugandan and as an Indian." 'Firang' is a term used in Hindu and Urdu for foreigners or Westerners. But Mehek Cooke, an attorney born in India who serves as a GOP consultant and commentator, told Fox News Digital that the word is not "some harmless cultural term," but rather a "slur." "It’s the word used back in India to mock outsiders, to say you don’t belong," Cooke said. This came amid a conservative campaign finance watchdog accused Mamdani's campaign of receiving donations from foreign donors. The Coolidge Reagan Foundation filed two criminal referrals, one with the US Department of Justice's Criminal Division and another with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, alleging that Mamdani violated the Federal Election Campaign Act and the New York Election Law by accepting contributions. Based on the campaign finance records cited by the watchdog and media outlets, the campaign of Mamdani was found with nearly $13,000 (approximately Rs 11 Lakh) from at least 170 donors having addresses outside the United States. The donation also includes from his mother-in-law in Dubai. However, some of the funds were returned, while about 88 donations costing around $7,190 remain due. Meanwhile, the US federal law bars foreign nationals from contributing to American political campaigns, with violations carrying potential fines or criminal charges. The watchdog alleged that Zohran Mamdani’s campaign showed a “systematic failure to comply” with campaign finance regulations.

The interview is now being criticised because Nair used a few terms that some view as derogatory toward the United States.

'He's not firang': Mira Nair in limelight for using ‘slur’ toward Americans while talking about son Zohran Mamdani

The deadly hurricane has been dubbed the storm of the century. It made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm around midday Tuesday (Oct 28) with sustained winds of up to 185 mph (295 km/h).

‘Storm of the century’: Hurricane Melissa leaves trail of destruction in Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti

The Indian government on Wednesday skipped Turkey's National Day reception in New Delhi amid ties chilled by Ankara’s support for Pakistan during the April-May conflict. Delhi, Ankara ties remain tense after the April/May conflict between India, Pakistan. The conflict started after the Pahalgam terror attack by Pakistan-trained terrorists, followed by India's counter-terror operation, Operation Sindoor. During India's operation Sindoor, Turkiye was seen backing Islamabad diplomatically, and militarily-Delhi pointed to the use of Turkish drones by the Pakistani military to attack India. Turkish President Erdogan raising Kashmir, during&nbsp;the UNGA, has also not gone down well with Delhi.At the embassy event, Turkish Ambassador Ali Murat Ersoy struck a conciliatory tone, calling India “one of the most important countries of the world.” Though the nations are “geographically distant,” he said, they “share deep historical and cultural ties.” “For centuries, our civilizations have exchanged ideas, goods and traditions shaping each other in profound ways in a world facing complex challenges,” Ersoy noted, adding that “this historical foundation… provides a powerful starting point for a stronger partnership.”Typically, Indian government representatives are present at such ceremonies as part of diplomatic protocol. The rank of the representative signals the state of ties. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has graced some events in the past. Wednesday’s absence spoke volumes.Ersoy remained upbeat, saying that the “potential of the relationship far outweighs the current level of engagement, we must and will continue to work on it.” As “key players in our respective regions, we can work together to promote connectivity, stability and peace by aligning our efforts on global issues, we can amplify our voices and contribute to a more secure and sustainable world.” Quoting Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali, he invoked a “mind without fear and the head held high,” describing it as “this… shared spirit of our people, a demand for dignity, for courage and for a future built on mutual respect.”Ersoy acknowledged global turbulence: “The world is changing, yet this progress is not a simple linear march toward a better future. The very technologies that unite us also amplify division and disinformation, while some societies try; others are left behind, grappling with persistent inequality, conflict and erosion of democratic norms.” He insisted that “nations like Turkey and India are positioned to make truly vital contributions, when we work together… that contribution will not be just great, but transformation.”Recalling his first Diwali, Ersoy said the festival’s “central theme… is the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair.”

 During India operation Sindoor, Turkiye was seen backing Islamabad diplomatically, and militarily-Delhi pointed to the use of Turkish drones by the Pakistani military to attack India. 

The Indian government on Wednesday skipped Turkey's National Day reception in New Delhi amid ties chilled by Ankara’s support for Pakistan during the April-May conflict. Delhi, Ankara ties remain tense after the April/May conflict between India, Pakistan. The conflict started after the Pahalgam terror attack by Pakistan-trained terrorists, followed by India's counter-terror operation, Operation Sindoor. During India's operation Sindoor, Turkiye was seen backing Islamabad diplomatically, and militarily-Delhi pointed to the use of Turkish drones by the Pakistani military to attack India. Turkish President Erdogan raising Kashmir, during the UNGA, has also not gone down well with Delhi. At the embassy event, Turkish Ambassador Ali Murat Ersoy struck a conciliatory tone, calling India “one of the most important countries of the world.” Though the nations are “geographically distant,” he said, they “share deep historical and cultural ties.” “For centuries, our civilizations have exchanged ideas, goods and traditions shaping each other in profound ways in a world facing complex challenges,” Ersoy noted, adding that “this historical foundation… provides a powerful starting point for a stronger partnership.” Typically, Indian government representatives are present at such ceremonies as part of diplomatic protocol. The rank of the representative signals the state of ties. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has graced some events in the past. Wednesday’s absence spoke volumes. Ersoy remained upbeat, saying that the “potential of the relationship far outweighs the current level of engagement, we must and will continue to work on it.” As “key players in our respective regions, we can work together to promote connectivity, stability and peace by aligning our efforts on global issues, we can amplify our voices and contribute to a more secure and sustainable world.” Quoting Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali, he invoked a “mind without fear and the head held high,” describing it as “this… shared spirit of our people, a demand for dignity, for courage and for a future built on mutual respect.” Ersoy acknowledged global turbulence: “The world is changing, yet this progress is not a simple linear march toward a better future. The very technologies that unite us also amplify division and disinformation, while some societies try; others are left behind, grappling with persistent inequality, conflict and erosion of democratic norms.” He insisted that “nations like Turkey and India are positioned to make truly vital contributions, when we work together… that contribution will not be just great, but transformation.” Recalling his first Diwali, Ersoy said the festival’s “central theme… is the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair.”

&nbsp;During India's operation Sindoor, Turkiye was seen backing Islamabad diplomatically, and militarily-Delhi pointed to the use of Turkish drones by the Pakistani military to attack India.&nbsp;

Indian govt skips Turkey’s National Day amid frosty ties

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as 'Neasden Temple', for its 30th anniversary. On their arrival, they received a warm welcome by members of the community. The temple is Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple, which was established in August 1995. The temple has marble and limestone carvings done by skilled Indian artisans, which were shipped to the UK and later assembled. This also marks the King's fourth visit to the temple; he had toured the premises with his in 2009, then when he was the Prince of Wales. He had made solo trips to the Hindu temple in 2001 and 1996, respectively.&nbsp;Sadhu Yogvivekdas, in his welcome address, as reported by news agency PTI, said, “This Mandir is the home of God. Over these last 30 years, it has become an integral part of the religious, cultural landscape of our great nation; admired not only for its partnership, but for what it embodies – a living centre of devotion, learning and service.”&nbsp;“This is all inspired and guided by our spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, and the values that he upholds - values such as compassion, respect, harmony, values such as humility, sincerity and integrity. All values that Their Majesties have also espoused throughout a lifetime of public service," he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A heartfelt thank you to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla for their visit to Neasden Temple to commemorate its 30th anniversary. Your presence made this celebration joyous and memorable for the entire community.<a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RoyalFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BAPS</a> <a href="https://t.co/ns02ApPwgf">pic.twitter.com/ns02ApPwgf</a>&mdash; Neasden Temple (@NeasdenTemple) <a href="https://twitter.com/NeasdenTemple/status/1983555023725306167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The King and Queen observed the ceremonial pouring of water over the deity’s portrait with members of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK during their visit. Delighted by their presence, the temple authorities took to their X account to write, “A heartfelt thank you to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla for their visit to Neasden Temple to commemorate its 30th anniversary. Your presence made this celebration joyous and memorable for the entire community.”

UK King and Queen visit Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple, which was established in August 1995 for its 30th anniversary celebration. The temple has marble and limestone carvings done by skilled Indian artisans, which were shipped to the UK and later assembled. 

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as 'Neasden Temple', for its 30th anniversary. On their arrival, they received a warm welcome by members of the community. The temple is Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple, which was established in August 1995. The temple has marble and limestone carvings done by skilled Indian artisans, which were shipped to the UK and later assembled. This also marks the King's fourth visit to the temple; he had toured the premises with his in 2009, then when he was the Prince of Wales. He had made solo trips to the Hindu temple in 2001 and 1996, respectively. Sadhu Yogvivekdas, in his welcome address, as reported by news agency PTI, said, “This Mandir is the home of God. Over these last 30 years, it has become an integral part of the religious, cultural landscape of our great nation; admired not only for its partnership, but for what it embodies – a living centre of devotion, learning and service.” “This is all inspired and guided by our spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, and the values that he upholds - values such as compassion, respect, harmony, values such as humility, sincerity and integrity. All values that Their Majesties have also espoused throughout a lifetime of public service," he added.

UK King and Queen visit Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple, which was established in August 1995 for its 30th anniversary celebration. The temple has marble and limestone carvings done by skilled Indian artisans, which were shipped to the UK and later assembled.&nbsp;

King Charles and Queen Camilla visit Hindu temple in London to celebrate its 30th anniversary

The social media network founded by US President Donald Trump, Truth Social, announced Tuesday that it will allow users to make bets on the outcome of real-world events using the platform.Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) is capitalising on a form of betting that has surged in popularity, with phone-based apps that allow users to wager on topics ranging from politics and the economy, to sports and entertainment.Truth Social will add betting through a partnership with Crypto.com, allowing users to bet on "elections, interest rates and inflation rate changes, commodity prices on gold and crude oil," or events from "all major sports leagues," according to a statement.Federal authorities don't consider so-called "prediction markets" to be gambling, per se, and as such they are regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and not by state gambling authorities across the US, as lotteries and casinos typically are.To secure a wager, the user purchases a "contract" for a financial product that yields a profit if the event occurs -- whether it's the election of a candidate or the victory of a sports team.The new sector is considered so promising that earlier this month the New York Stock Exchange's operator, Intercontinental Exchange, announced a $2 billion investment in one of the most prominent platforms, Polymarket.Prediction apps are particularly popular among young adults, which has raised concerns about the risks of addiction and financial losses.TMTG has launched several projects, including cryptocurrency-related financial products and a video streaming platform, but generated only $1.7 million in revenue in the first half of 2025.At the same time, it reported a net loss of $51.7 million, according to documents published by the US Securities and Exchange Commission.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Truth Social will add betting through a partnership with Crypto.com, allowing users to bet on "elections, interest rates and inflation rate changes, commodity prices on gold and crude oil," or events from "all major sports leagues," according to a statement.

The social media network founded by US President Donald Trump, Truth Social, announced Tuesday that it will allow users to make bets on the outcome of real-world events using the platform. Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) is capitalising on a form of betting that has surged in popularity, with phone-based apps that allow users to wager on topics ranging from politics and the economy, to sports and entertainment. Truth Social will add betting through a partnership with Crypto.com, allowing users to bet on "elections, interest rates and inflation rate changes, commodity prices on gold and crude oil," or events from "all major sports leagues," according to a statement. Federal authorities don't consider so-called "prediction markets" to be gambling, per se, and as such they are regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and not by state gambling authorities across the US, as lotteries and casinos typically are. To secure a wager, the user purchases a "contract" for a financial product that yields a profit if the event occurs -- whether it's the election of a candidate or the victory of a sports team. The new sector is considered so promising that earlier this month the New York Stock Exchange's operator, Intercontinental Exchange, announced a $2 billion investment in one of the most prominent platforms, Polymarket. Prediction apps are particularly popular among young adults, which has raised concerns about the risks of addiction and financial losses. TMTG has launched several projects, including cryptocurrency-related financial products and a video streaming platform, but generated only $1.7 million in revenue in the first half of 2025. At the same time, it reported a net loss of $51.7 million, according to documents published by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Truth Social will add betting through a partnership with Crypto.com, allowing users to bet on "elections, interest rates and inflation rate changes, commodity prices on gold and crude oil," or events from "all major sports leagues," according to a statement.

Trump's Truth Social platform to allow betting on real-world events

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as 'Neasden Temple', for its 30th anniversary.

In Pics | King Charles and Queen Camilla visit Hindu temple on its 30th anniversary

After the US deployed the world’s largest warships and launched 11 strikes on the boats in Venezuelan waters, the country's president, Nicolas Maduro, has accused his American counterpart, Donald Trump, is “fabricating a new eternal war” against him. The US launched strikes on Venezuelan waters, claiming that the boats were trafficking drugs and were linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal gang.On Tuesday (Oct 28), Venezuela suspended a major gas deal with neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago. The deal was cancelled, citing the island nation’s reception of the USS Gravely, another US warship.As of writing this, the US has not supported its claim with any proof that the Venezuelan boats were trafficking drugs. Maduro firmly rejected the allegation, saying, “Venezuela is a country that does not produce cocaine leaves."Not all this drama has escalated the speculation that Trump is eying a regime change in Venezuela. But is it the only country the American president is interfering in? No. Trump has also made comments about, or direct moves towards, the internal affairs of Brazil, India, Israel, and Argentina, among others.Will he run again for the presidency?Trump, on Wednesday (Oct 29) has finally accepted that US law does not allow anyone to run for the presidency for the third time. Previously, he had been hinting at running again by saying that “there are ways.” His MAGA base also said that there were various ways to interpret the law that restricted an individual from running for the presidency for a third term. While Trump accepted that US law bars him, but he also said that he has “best numbers,” calling the law “too bad.”“It’s a very interesting thing. I have the best numbers for any president in many years,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “And I would say that, if you read it, it’s pretty clear. I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad but we have a lot of great people,” Trump added.

On Tuesday (Oct 28), Venezuela suspended a major gas deal with neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago. The deal was canceled, citing the island nation’s reception of the USS Gravely, another US warship.

After the US deployed the world’s largest warships and launched 11 strikes on the boats in Venezuelan waters, the country's president, Nicolas Maduro, has accused his American counterpart, Donald Trump, is “fabricating a new eternal war” against him. The US launched strikes on Venezuelan waters, claiming that the boats were trafficking drugs and were linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal gang. On Tuesday (Oct 28), Venezuela suspended a major gas deal with neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago. The deal was cancelled, citing the island nation’s reception of the USS Gravely, another US warship. As of writing this, the US has not supported its claim with any proof that the Venezuelan boats were trafficking drugs. Maduro firmly rejected the allegation, saying, “Venezuela is a country that does not produce cocaine leaves." Not all this drama has escalated the speculation that Trump is eying a regime change in Venezuela. But is it the only country the American president is interfering in? No. Trump has also made comments about, or direct moves towards, the internal affairs of Brazil, India, Israel, and Argentina, among others. Will he run again for the presidency? Trump, on Wednesday (Oct 29) has finally accepted that US law does not allow anyone to run for the presidency for the third time. Previously, he had been hinting at running again by saying that “there are ways.” His MAGA base also said that there were various ways to interpret the law that restricted an individual from running for the presidency for a third term. While Trump accepted that US law bars him, but he also said that he has “best numbers,” calling the law “too bad.” “It’s a very interesting thing. I have the best numbers for any president in many years,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “And I would say that, if you read it, it’s pretty clear. I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad but we have a lot of great people,” Trump added.

On Tuesday (Oct 28), Venezuela suspended a major gas deal with neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago. The deal was cancelled, citing the island nation’s reception of the USS Gravely, another US warship.

Trump plotting a regime change in Venezuela? Why is he interfering in other nations’ internal politics?

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has admitted the role of his country and its past leadership in helping the creation of the Taliban and said it’s time to admit the mistakes made in the past and seek forgiveness from the Almighty for them. In an interview with Geo News on Wednesday after ongoing talks with Kabul in Istanbul failed, Khawaja said, “Whatever is happening to us today is the result of those sins and our actions that we committed with Afghanistan in the 60s, 70s, 90s, and the early decades of this century.” “The Almighty says confess your crimes and I will forgive you, but we have been denying the role we played in Afghanistan. Those who did this, worked on this policy should pay for these crimes, wherever they may be, whether alive or dead,” Asif said.&nbsp;&nbsp;A video of Asif’s remark has gone viral on social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">خواجه اصف: “نن چې څه هم روان دي، دا د همغه ګناهونو او زموږ د کړنو پایله ده چې موږ په اویایمې، اتیایمې، نویمې، او د دې پېړې په لومړیو لسیزو کې د افغانستان سره کړي” <a href="https://t.co/DK0kVsiE40">pic.twitter.com/DK0kVsiE40</a>&mdash; Najib Azad (@NajibullahAzad) <a href="https://twitter.com/NajibullahAzad/status/1983294193587105926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-push-them-back-into-caves-tails-between-their-legs-pak-minister-says-will-obliterate-afghan-taliban-1761741971619">Will push them back into caves…tails between their legs’: Pak minister says will ‘obliterate’ Afghan Taliban</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier also, after the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in April, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif admitted that his country supported terrorist groups for three decades. When asked about Islamabad’s history of funding and backing terror outfits in an interview with a British news channel, Asif admitted the country’s history of supporting, training and funding terrorist organisations as “dirty work” for the West, a mistake for which he said Pakistan had suffered.&nbsp;Asif further described it as a “mistake” and said that Pakistan has paid a heavy price for its actions and added that Pakistan’s record would have been unquestioned if it had not aligned with the West during the Soviet-Afghan war and the US-led war against the Taliban following the 9/11 attacks.The admission came in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, raising fresh concerns about Pakistan’s past involvement in regional instability.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-fumbles-seven-times-in-unsc-speech-gets-trolled-watch-1758895298255">Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif fumbles seven times in UNSC speech, gets trolled | Watch</a>&nbsp;Asif again embarrassed himself and his nation on live television after he was caught spreading misinformation after India’s successful precision strikes on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) under ‘Operation Sindoor’.&nbsp;During an interview with CNN, Asif tried to spread fake news about Pakistan shooting down Indian fighter jets during the strike, but when he asked for proof, he fumbled.“It’s all over social media, on Indian social media, not just our social media. The debris of these jets fell into Kashmir,” he claimed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-fumbles-on-power-equation-with-army-chief-asim-munir-1758918470480">Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif fumbles on power equation with Army chief Asim Munir</a>&nbsp;The CNN anchor Becky Anderson quickly interjected, saying, “I’m sorry, we didn’t ask you here to talk about social media content. I’m asking specifically for the evidence, details. For example, was any Chinese equipment used to down these Rafale jets, as I understand you are alleging to be?”&nbsp;WATCH: Pakistan: Khawaja Asif blames General Faiz Hameed for Taliban's revival<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-khawaja-asif-blames-general-faiz-hameed-for-taliban-s-revival-1760698408981/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-khawaja-asif-blames-general-faiz-hameed-for-taliban-s-revival-1760698408981/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier also, after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, in an interview to a British news channel, Khawaja Asif admitted the country’s history of supporting, training, and funding terrorist organisations as “dirty work” for the West, a mistake for which Pakistan suffered.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has admitted the role of his country and its past leadership in helping the creation of the Taliban and said it’s time to admit the mistakes made in the past and seek forgiveness from the Almighty for them. In an interview with Geo News on Wednesday after ongoing talks with Kabul in Istanbul failed, Khawaja said, “Whatever is happening to us today is the result of those sins and our actions that we committed with Afghanistan in the 60s, 70s, 90s, and the early decades of this century.” “The Almighty says confess your crimes and I will forgive you, but we have been denying the role we played in Afghanistan. Those who did this, worked on this policy should pay for these crimes, wherever they may be, whether alive or dead,” Asif said. A video of Asif’s remark has gone viral on social media.

Earlier also, after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, in an interview to a British news channel, Khawaja Asif admitted the country’s history of supporting, training, and funding terrorist organisations as “dirty work” for the West, a mistake for which Pakistan suffered.

Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban

At least 132 people were killed in a deadly police raid against drug gangs in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, the city’s public defender’s office said in a statement on Wednesday (Oct 29), a day after the operation took place. Residents were seen grieving in the streets where dozens of bodies were laid out. Four police officers were also slain in the military-style campaign that involved 2,500 officers.“The most recent update is 132 dead,” the Rio state public defender’s office, which provides legal assistance to the poor, told AFP.Condemning the deaths, Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski said, “The president is horrified by the number of fatal incidents.”Described as “the largest in the state’s history” by Governor Claudio Castro, the operation involved taking on Rio’s most powerful criminal organisation, the Comando Vermelho, or Red Command. The raids were carried out at one of the two densely populated neighbourhoods of northern Rio, Penha Complex, and the Alemao Complex, located near Rio’s international airport.Residents accused the policy of summary killings, saying that some were “murdered in cold blood”.“There are people who have been executed, many of them shot in the back of the head, shot in the back. This cannot be considered public safety,” said Raul Santiago, a 36-year-old resident and activist.Lawyer Albino Pereira Neto, who represents three families that lost relatives, told AFP that some bodies had been tied up and some had “burn marks”.<h2>War-like situation in Rio</h2>War-like scenes emerged in the city as armoured vehicles, helicopters and drones were used in the streets of the favelas. Fires erupted around the neighbourhood as police and suspected gang members traded intense gunfire.The authorities accused the alleged gang members of using buses as barricades and using drones to attack the police personnel with explosives.“This is not ordinary crime, but narcoterrorism,” Rio state governor Claudio Castro wrote Tuesday on X, where he shared a video from the fighting.While police raids are common in Rio’s favelas, where drug gangs have a strong presence. However, Tuesday’s operation was much larger in scale and lethality.The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement that it was “horrified”, calling for “swift investigations.”A delegation from President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s government will travel to Rio on Wednesday for an emergency meeting with Castro.

War-like scenes emerged in the city as armoured vehicles, helicopters and drones were used in the streets of the favelas. Fires erupted around the neighbourhood as police and suspected gang members traded intense gunfire.

At least 132 people were killed in a deadly police raid against drug gangs in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, the city’s public defender’s office said in a statement on Wednesday (Oct 29), a day after the operation took place. Residents were seen grieving in the streets where dozens of bodies were laid out. Four police officers were also slain in the military-style campaign that involved 2,500 officers. “The most recent update is 132 dead,” the Rio state public defender’s office, which provides legal assistance to the poor, told AFP. Condemning the deaths, Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski said, “The president is horrified by the number of fatal incidents.” Described as “the largest in the state’s history” by Governor Claudio Castro, the operation involved taking on Rio’s most powerful criminal organisation, the Comando Vermelho, or Red Command. The raids were carried out at one of the two densely populated neighbourhoods of northern Rio, Penha Complex, and the Alemao Complex, located near Rio’s international airport. Residents accused the policy of summary killings, saying that some were “murdered in cold blood”. “There are people who have been executed, many of them shot in the back of the head, shot in the back. This cannot be considered public safety,” said Raul Santiago, a 36-year-old resident and activist. Lawyer Albino Pereira Neto, who represents three families that lost relatives, told AFP that some bodies had been tied up and some had “burn marks”. War-like situation in Rio War-like scenes emerged in the city as armoured vehicles, helicopters and drones were used in the streets of the favelas. Fires erupted around the neighbourhood as police and suspected gang members traded intense gunfire. The authorities accused the alleged gang members of using buses as barricades and using drones to attack the police personnel with explosives. “This is not ordinary crime, but narcoterrorism,” Rio state governor Claudio Castro wrote Tuesday on X, where he shared a video from the fighting. While police raids are common in Rio’s favelas, where drug gangs have a strong presence. However, Tuesday’s operation was much larger in scale and lethality. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement that it was “horrified”, calling for “swift investigations.” A delegation from President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s government will travel to Rio on Wednesday for an emergency meeting with Castro.

War-like scenes emerged in the city as armoured vehicles, helicopters and drones were used in the streets of the favelas. Fires erupted around the neighbourhood as police and suspected gang members traded intense gunfire.

‘Largest in the state’s history’: At least 132 killed in Rio police crackdown against drug gangs

Determining the world's smartest countries is complex. A 2019 study by Richard Lynn and David Becker measured the average IQ of citizens across 132 nations. It is to be noted that these rankings are highly controversial and questioned for their methodology and objectivity.

Top 10 smartest countries in the world by average IQ: Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore lead the list

On Wednesday (Oct 29), India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is working closely with Thai authorities to repatriate Indian nationals detained in Thailand. This comes after a military raid on a cybercrime hub in Myanmar. In response to media queries, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We are aware of Indian nationals who have been detained by Thai authorities. They had crossed into Thailand from Myanmar over the past few days.”&nbsp;He added, "Our Mission in Thailand is working closely with Thai authorities to verify their nationality and to repatriate them, after necessary legal formalities are completed in Thailand."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our response to media queries on Indian nationals detained in Thailand⬇️ 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/XidK8NZKCj">https://t.co/XidK8NZKCj</a> <a href="https://t.co/hFoSq9tG7O">pic.twitter.com/hFoSq9tG7O</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1983505182529863845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 In response to media queries, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We are aware of Indian nationals who have been detained by Thai authorities. They had crossed into Thailand from Myanmar over the past few days.”

On Wednesday (Oct 29), India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is working closely with Thai authorities to repatriate Indian nationals detained in Thailand. This comes after a military raid on a cybercrime hub in Myanmar. In response to media queries, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We are aware of Indian nationals who have been detained by Thai authorities. They had crossed into Thailand from Myanmar over the past few days.” He added, "Our Mission in Thailand is working closely with Thai authorities to verify their nationality and to repatriate them, after necessary legal formalities are completed in Thailand."

&nbsp;In response to media queries, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We are aware of Indian nationals who have been detained by Thai authorities. They had crossed into Thailand from Myanmar over the past few days.”

India to repatriate nationals detained in Thailand after military raid on a cybercrime hub in Myanmar

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Oct 29) announced the successful testing of a nuclear-capable, nuclear-powered underwater drone, despite US President Donald Trump’s warning. This was the second test of a new nuclear weapons system in just a few days. Earlier on Sunday (Oct 26), Putin announced the test of another advanced nuclear-capable weapon -- the Burevestnik cruise missile that has an “unlimited range”. Trump said the move was not “appropriate.”“Yesterday, another test was conducted for another prospective system – the unmanned underwater device ‘Poseidon,’ also equipped with a nuclear power unit,” Putin said in a televised statement while visiting a military hospital treating Russian soldiers wounded in Ukraine.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vladimir Putin says Russia tested atomic-powered and nuclear-armed &#39;Poseidon&#39; underwater drone, days after successful test of a new nuclear-powered cruise missile . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VladimirPutin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VladimirPutin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONUncut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONUncut</a> <a href="https://t.co/nlTJSBY42k">pic.twitter.com/nlTJSBY42k</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1983528572523589759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is Poseidon?</h2>Poseidon, the drone torpedo, can travel at a faster speed than conventional submarines and reach any continent in the world, said Putin, adding that there was “no way to intercept” it. The Russian leader added that Poseidon’s speed and diving depth were unmatched in the world and that “it is unlikely that anything similar will appear in the near future.”The weapon can operate at a depth of over one kilometre (0.6 mile) and travel at speeds of up to 70 knots, all while remaining undetected, news agency TASS reported, citing a source in the Russian military-industrial complex. The device is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead of up to two megatons.Both Poseidon and Burevestnik were announced by Putin first in a fiery anti-Western speech in 2018. Poseidon’s first test was also conducted in the same year.<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Following Sunday’s cruise missile test, Trump called on Putin to focus on ending the war in Ukraine instead.“He ought to get the war (in Ukraine) ended. A war that should have taken one week is now soon in its fourth year. That’s what he ought to do instead of testing missiles,” Trump said.Last week, Trump cancelled a planned summit with Putin in Budapest over the Russian leader’s unwillingness to end the conflict. Since returning to the White House in January for his second term, the US president has been making efforts to secure a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. However, the talks have still not yielded any progress towards ending the war, making him show frustration and disappointment towards Putin, who has rejected global calls for a ceasefire.&nbsp;

Last week, Trump cancelled a planned summit with Putin in Budapest over the Russian leader’s unwillingness to end the conflict. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Oct 29) announced the successful testing of a nuclear-capable, nuclear-powered underwater drone, despite US President Donald Trump’s warning. This was the second test of a new nuclear weapons system in just a few days. Earlier on Sunday (Oct 26), Putin announced the test of another advanced nuclear-capable weapon -- the Burevestnik cruise missile that has an “unlimited range”. Trump said the move was not “appropriate.” “Yesterday, another test was conducted for another prospective system – the unmanned underwater device ‘Poseidon,’ also equipped with a nuclear power unit,” Putin said in a televised statement while visiting a military hospital treating Russian soldiers wounded in Ukraine.

Last week, Trump cancelled a planned summit with Putin in Budapest over the Russian leader’s unwillingness to end the conflict.

What is Poseidon? Putin announces successful testing of nuclear underwater drone despite Trump’s warning

Nvidia has become the first company in history to reach a market value of USD 5 trillion, riding on the artificial intelligence boom that is reshaping technology, businesses, and markets across the globe. Nvidia shares opened up more than 3% on Wednesday, and its market value is now more than the GDP of every country on earth, except for the US and China, according to World Bank data. The stock has gained more than 50% this year and more than 1,500% over the last five years. Nvidia’s sharp rise highlights its transformation from a graphics-chip designer into the backbone of the booming AI industry. The steep rise has turned CEO Jensen Huang into one of Silicon Valley’s most influential figures and the company is now at the centre of the US-China tech rivalry.&nbsp;Since 2022—the year of ChatGPT launch—Nvidia’s shares have surged 12 times as the AI frenzy pushed the S&amp;P 500 to record highs, sparking both fear and debate over whether soaring tech valuations could trigger another market bubble.The firm reached the $5 trillion market capitalisation just three months after crossing $4 trillion. Moreover, the new valuation surpasses the total worth of the global cryptocurrency market and now equals nearly half of Europe’s benchmark Stoxx 600 index.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-push-them-back-into-caves-tails-between-their-legs-pak-minister-says-will-obliterate-afghan-taliban-1761741971619">Will push them back into caves…tails between their legs’: Pak minister says will ‘obliterate’ Afghan Taliban</a><h2>Rise follows record orders and supercomputing plans</h2>&nbsp;The Santa Clara-based company’s shares rose 3.5% after a series of announcements reinforced its leadership in the AI race. On Tuesday, Nvidia President and CEO Jensen Huang unveiled AI chip orders worth $500 billion and announced plans to build seven supercomputers for the US government.&nbsp;At current prices, Huang’s stake in Nvidia is worth about USD 177.3 billion, making him the world’s eighth-richest person, according to Forbes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-admits-country-s-past-role-in-supporting-afghanistan-taliban-1761755033225">Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban</a>&nbsp;Taiwan-born Huang, who was raised in the US from the age of nine, founded Nvidia in 1993. Under his leadership, the company’s H100 and Blackwell processors have become the core engines behind large-language models such as ChatGPT and Elon Musk’s xAI.The rally reflects investor confidence in sustained AI spending, though some warn that valuations may be running hot.Nvidia’s performance has a sweeping influence across global markets now.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, US President Donald Trump is likely to discuss Nvidia’s Blackwell chip with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday since the sale of the high-end chip has been a sticking point in ongoing tensions between the two countries, particularly amid Washington’s export controls on advanced semiconductors.

The Santa Clara-based company is at the centre of the global AI boom, and its market capitalisation as on Wednesday now exceeds the total valuation of the cryptocurrency market and is roughly half the size of Europe’s Stoxx 600 index.

Nvidia has become the first company in history to reach a market value of USD 5 trillion, riding on the artificial intelligence boom that is reshaping technology, businesses, and markets across the globe. Nvidia shares opened up more than 3% on Wednesday, and its market value is now more than the GDP of every country on earth, except for the US and China, according to World Bank data. The stock has gained more than 50% this year and more than 1,500% over the last five years. Nvidia’s sharp rise highlights its transformation from a graphics-chip designer into the backbone of the booming AI industry. The steep rise has turned CEO Jensen Huang into one of Silicon Valley’s most influential figures and the company is now at the centre of the US-China tech rivalry. Since 2022—the year of ChatGPT launch—Nvidia’s shares have surged 12 times as the AI frenzy pushed the S&P 500 to record highs, sparking both fear and debate over whether soaring tech valuations could trigger another market bubble. The firm reached the $5 trillion market capitalisation just three months after crossing $4 trillion. Moreover, the new valuation surpasses the total worth of the global cryptocurrency market and now equals nearly half of Europe’s benchmark Stoxx 600 index. Also Read: Will push them back into caves…tails between their legs’: Pak minister says will ‘obliterate’ Afghan Taliban Rise follows record orders and supercomputing plans The Santa Clara-based company’s shares rose 3.5% after a series of announcements reinforced its leadership in the AI race. On Tuesday, Nvidia President and CEO Jensen Huang unveiled AI chip orders worth $500 billion and announced plans to build seven supercomputers for the US government. At current prices, Huang’s stake in Nvidia is worth about USD 177.3 billion, making him the world’s eighth-richest person, according to Forbes. Also Read: Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban Taiwan-born Huang, who was raised in the US from the age of nine, founded Nvidia in 1993. Under his leadership, the company’s H100 and Blackwell processors have become the core engines behind large-language models such as ChatGPT and Elon Musk’s xAI. The rally reflects investor confidence in sustained AI spending, though some warn that valuations may be running hot. Nvidia’s performance has a sweeping influence across global markets now. Moreover, US President Donald Trump is likely to discuss Nvidia’s Blackwell chip with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday since the sale of the high-end chip has been a sticking point in ongoing tensions between the two countries, particularly amid Washington’s export controls on advanced semiconductors.

The Santa Clara-based company is at the centre of the global AI boom, and its market capitalisation now exceeds the total valuation of the cryptocurrency market and is roughly half the size of Europe’s Stoxx 600 index.

Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value

The White House on Wednesday (Oct 29) shared funny images of four political personalities on the social media platform X in Halloween costumes. The images included the President, Vice President, and two Democratic lawmakers, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, who are regularly mocked by the Trump administration.&nbsp;JD Vance's “costume” featured ironic references to his February White House encounter with Volodymyr Zelensky, in which Vance scolded the Ukrainian President for his lack of gratitude.&nbsp;The post has an image of JD Vance written ‘JD Vance’ - includes: the word please, you didn't say thank you memes - not included: fat JD curly hair.&nbsp;Reacting to the recent post in which the White House asked netizens to “choose wisely” among 4 leaders, one X user wrote: “Never thought the actual White House X account would be some of the funniest content on the platform."&nbsp;“It’s hard to stay apolitical when yall are letting loose hard core insta-classics like this,” another person said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Choose wisely… 👻 <a href="https://t.co/B3YvsTh7f2">pic.twitter.com/B3YvsTh7f2</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1983330613861187864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, poeple shared memes in the comment section of the post.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://t.co/6qbTjjp3HD">pic.twitter.com/6qbTjjp3HD</a>&mdash; Brent Henderson 🇺🇸 (@bighurtrocks) <a href="https://twitter.com/bighurtrocks/status/1983330924415856766?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Vance in limelight recentlyAfter a divorce rumour spread by former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, US Vice President JD Vance laughed off the claims, saying he is very grateful to have Usha by her side. When he was asked about Psaki's claim that the Vance couple were facing troubles in their marriage, the US VP said, “I think it’s disgraceful, but of course the second lady can speak for herself.”“I am very lucky to have a wonderful wife, and I know — at least I hope — that my wife feels the same about me. I’m honored to have Usha by my side," he added.Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary, made a claim without proof that the marital life of the US Vice President JD Vance and Usha Vance is not going great. Talking at an episode of the "I've Had It" series, she said, without any proof, that the couple might be heading for a divorce.“I always wonder what’s going on in the mind of his wife. Like, are you OK? Please blink four times. Come over here, we’ll save you," Psaki said.

The images included the President, Vice President, and two Democratic lawmakers, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, who are regularly mocked by the Trump administration.

The White House on Wednesday (Oct 29) shared funny images of four political personalities on the social media platform X in Halloween costumes. The images included the President, Vice President, and two Democratic lawmakers, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, who are regularly mocked by the Trump administration. JD Vance's “costume” featured ironic references to his February White House encounter with Volodymyr Zelensky, in which Vance scolded the Ukrainian President for his lack of gratitude. The post has an image of JD Vance written ‘JD Vance’ - includes: the word please, you didn't say thank you memes - not included: fat JD curly hair. Reacting to the recent post in which the White House asked netizens to “choose wisely” among 4 leaders, one X user wrote: “Never thought the actual White House X account would be some of the funniest content on the platform." “It’s hard to stay apolitical when yall are letting loose hard core insta-classics like this,” another person said.

The images included the President, Vice President, and two Democratic lawmakers, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, who are regularly mocked by the Trump administration.

‘Fat JD with curly hair’: White House’s Halloween post leaves internet amazed

Pakistan-based UN-listed terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has unveiled Jamat-ul-Mominat, a women's unit aimed at recruiting and deploying female fighters. An exclusive 21-minute audio recording of JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar, delivered recently at the group's Markaz Usman o Ali complex in Bahawalpur, outlines a detailed blueprint for training, indoctrinating, and mobilising women, mirroring the structure long used for male recruits.Azhar declared that branches of Jamat-ul-Mominat will be established in every district of Pakistan, each headed by a District Muntazima responsible for recruiting women into the organisation. He imposes strict communication rules: women joining the brigade must not speak to any unrelated men through phone or messenger, except their husbands or immediate family members.Azhar appointed his sister, Sadiya Azhar, as the head of the women’s brigade. His other sister, Samaira Azhar, and Afeera Farooq, widow of Pulwama attacker Umar Farooq, are also part of the leadership. They are tasked with conducting daily online sessions to motivate and recruit women.JeM has since confirmed these details through a new poster naming Umme Masood (real name Samaira Azhar) as the instructor for online classes, held five days a week starting October 25. Azhar reveals that Jamat-ul-Mominat includes 4–5 women whose male relatives were killed in encounters with the Indian Army. These women, he says, will be used to inspire new recruits under a campaign titled “Shoba-e-Dawat.”Drawing parallels to JeM's male program, Azhar states that just as recruits undergo the 15-day “Daura-e-Tarbiat” course for indoctrination—brainwashing them that jihad against India ensures paradise—women will receive “Daura-e-Taskiya” at Bahawalpur. He promises that any woman who joins Jamat-ul-Mominat “will go straight to paradise from her grave after death.” Graduates later advance to “Daura-Ayat-ul-Nisah".14 family members, including Yousuf Azhar, Jameel Ahmed, Hamza Jameel, and Huzaifa Azhar, were neutralized during India’s counterterror, Operation Sindoor.

Azhar declared that branches of Jamat-ul-Mominat will be established in every district of Pakistan, each headed by a District Muntazima responsible for recruiting women into the organisation.

Pakistan-based UN-listed terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has unveiled Jamat-ul-Mominat, a women's unit aimed at recruiting and deploying female fighters. An exclusive 21-minute audio recording of JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar, delivered recently at the group's Markaz Usman o Ali complex in Bahawalpur, outlines a detailed blueprint for training, indoctrinating, and mobilising women, mirroring the structure long used for male recruits. Azhar declared that branches of Jamat-ul-Mominat will be established in every district of Pakistan, each headed by a District Muntazima responsible for recruiting women into the organisation. He imposes strict communication rules: women joining the brigade must not speak to any unrelated men through phone or messenger, except their husbands or immediate family members. Azhar appointed his sister, Sadiya Azhar, as the head of the women’s brigade. His other sister, Samaira Azhar, and Afeera Farooq, widow of Pulwama attacker Umar Farooq, are also part of the leadership. They are tasked with conducting daily online sessions to motivate and recruit women. JeM has since confirmed these details through a new poster naming Umme Masood (real name Samaira Azhar) as the instructor for online classes, held five days a week starting October 25. Azhar reveals that Jamat-ul-Mominat includes 4–5 women whose male relatives were killed in encounters with the Indian Army. These women, he says, will be used to inspire new recruits under a campaign titled “Shoba-e-Dawat.” Drawing parallels to JeM's male program, Azhar states that just as recruits undergo the 15-day “Daura-e-Tarbiat” course for indoctrination—brainwashing them that jihad against India ensures paradise—women will receive “Daura-e-Taskiya” at Bahawalpur. He promises that any woman who joins Jamat-ul-Mominat “will go straight to paradise from her grave after death.” Graduates later advance to “Daura-Ayat-ul-Nisah". 14 family members, including Yousuf Azhar, Jameel Ahmed, Hamza Jameel, and Huzaifa Azhar, were neutralized during India’s counterterror, Operation Sindoor.

Azhar declared that branches of Jamat-ul-Mominat will be established in every district of Pakistan, each headed by a District Muntazima responsible for recruiting women into the organisation.

UN-listed terror group JeM's chief unveils women’s unit in Pakistan

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif boasted of his country’s military arsenal on Wednesday and said it would completely obliterate the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and push them back to the caves while reminding them of “their rout at Tora Bora with their tails between the legs”. In a post on X, Asif warned the Afghan Taliban that another attack on Pakistani soil would prompt Pakistan to “wipe them out” and force them “back into the caves.” Asif's warning after a four-day dialogue in Istanbul failed to produce any breakthrough on Pakistan’s key demand—that the Taliban take firm action against militants using Afghan territory to launch attacks in Pakistan.&nbsp;He said Pakistan had agreed to the talks at the request of “brotherly countries” to give peace a chance but added that “venomous statements by certain Afghan officials clearly reflect the devious and fractured mindset of the Taliban regime.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-admits-country-s-past-role-in-supporting-afghanistan-taliban-1761755033225">Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban</a>&nbsp;“Let me assure them that Pakistan does not require to employ even a fraction of its full arsenal to completely obliterate the Taliban regime and push them back to the caves for hiding. If they wish so, the repeat of the scenes of their rout at Tora Bora with their tails between the legs would surely be a spectacle to watch for the people of the region,” Asif said in a derogatory remark.&nbsp;He said the warmongers amongst the Taliban regime have vested interests in continued instability, but they have probably misread Pakistan’s resolve and courage.&nbsp;<h2>‘Their threats are only performative circus!’</h2>&nbsp;Asif said if the Taliban regime wants to fight, “The world will INSHAALLAH (God willing) see that their threats are only performative circus!”“We have borne your treachery and mockery for too long, but no more. Any terrorist attack or any suicide bombing inside Pakistan shall give you the bitter taste of such misadventures. Be rest assured and test our resolve and capabilities, if you wish so, at your own peril and doom,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nvidia-scripts-history-becomes-first-firm-to-reach-5-trillion-market-value-following-ai-boom-1761748694795">Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value</a>&nbsp;Responding to the Afghan narrative that it has defeated several empires, Asif said, “As far as the narrative of ‘graveyard of empires’, Pakistan certainly doesn’t claim to be an empire, but Afghanistan is definitely a graveyard, surely for its own people. Never a graveyard of empires but certainly a playground of empires you have been throughout history,” he said.The Pakistan minister said that the Taliban regime is “blindly pushing Afghanistan into yet another conflict” just to retain its usurped rule and maintain the war economy that sustains them.”&nbsp;“If the Afghan Taliban regime is madly hell-bent upon ruining Afghanistan and its innocent people once again, then so be it,” he warned.&nbsp;WATCH: Pacific Anti-Drug Campaign: US Military Strikes Drug Vessels in Pacific, 14 Dead<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pacific-anti-drug-campaign-us-military-strikes-drug-vessels-in-pacific-14-dead-1761735192243/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pacific-anti-drug-campaign-us-military-strikes-drug-vessels-in-pacific-14-dead-1761735192243/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Pak-Afghan peace talks collapse in Istanbul</h2>&nbsp;Asif’s remarks came hours after a pre-dawn announcement by Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar about the collapse of latest round of talks in Istanbul. He blamed the Taliban government in Kabul for refusing to take action against militants accused of carrying out deadly cross-border attacks.An earlier round in Doha had resulted in a temporary ceasefire on October 19. Pakistan accuses the Taliban of providing shelter to militants linked to a rise in attacks across its border, but Kabul denies that Afghan territory is being used to launch assaults against Pakistan.Kabul has blamed Pakistan for the failed peace talks in Turkey after Islamabad did not agree “to stop violating Afghan airspace and prevent US drone flights.”

Pakistan’s Minister Khawaja Asif said that the Taliban regime is “blindly pushing Afghanistan into yet another conflict” just to retain its usurped rule. He warned the Afghan Taliban that another attack on Pakistani soil would prompt Pakistan to “wipe them out”.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif boasted of his country’s military arsenal on Wednesday and said it would completely obliterate the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and push them back to the caves while reminding them of “their rout at Tora Bora with their tails between the legs”. In a post on X, Asif warned the Afghan Taliban that another attack on Pakistani soil would prompt Pakistan to “wipe them out” and force them “back into the caves.” Asif's warning after a four-day dialogue in Istanbul failed to produce any breakthrough on Pakistan’s key demand—that the Taliban take firm action against militants using Afghan territory to launch attacks in Pakistan. He said Pakistan had agreed to the talks at the request of “brotherly countries” to give peace a chance but added that “venomous statements by certain Afghan officials clearly reflect the devious and fractured mindset of the Taliban regime.” Also Read: Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits country’s past role in supporting Afghanistan Taliban “Let me assure them that Pakistan does not require to employ even a fraction of its full arsenal to completely obliterate the Taliban regime and push them back to the caves for hiding. If they wish so, the repeat of the scenes of their rout at Tora Bora with their tails between the legs would surely be a spectacle to watch for the people of the region,” Asif said in a derogatory remark. He said the warmongers amongst the Taliban regime have vested interests in continued instability, but they have probably misread Pakistan’s resolve and courage. ‘Their threats are only performative circus!’ Asif said if the Taliban regime wants to fight, “The world will INSHAALLAH (God willing) see that their threats are only performative circus!” “We have borne your treachery and mockery for too long, but no more. Any terrorist attack or any suicide bombing inside Pakistan shall give you the bitter taste of such misadventures. Be rest assured and test our resolve and capabilities, if you wish so, at your own peril and doom,” he said. Also Read: Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value Responding to the Afghan narrative that it has defeated several empires, Asif said, “As far as the narrative of ‘graveyard of empires’, Pakistan certainly doesn’t claim to be an empire, but Afghanistan is definitely a graveyard, surely for its own people. Never a graveyard of empires but certainly a playground of empires you have been throughout history,” he said. The Pakistan minister said that the Taliban regime is “blindly pushing Afghanistan into yet another conflict” just to retain its usurped rule and maintain the war economy that sustains them.” “If the Afghan Taliban regime is madly hell-bent upon ruining Afghanistan and its innocent people once again, then so be it,” he warned. WATCH: Pacific Anti-Drug Campaign: US Military Strikes Drug Vessels in Pacific, 14 Dead https://www.wionews.com/videos/pacific-anti-drug-campaign-us-military-strikes-drug-vessels-in-pacific-14-dead-1761735192243/embed Pak-Afghan peace talks collapse in Istanbul Asif’s remarks came hours after a pre-dawn announcement by Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar about the collapse of latest round of talks in Istanbul. He blamed the Taliban government in Kabul for refusing to take action against militants accused of carrying out deadly cross-border attacks. An earlier round in Doha had resulted in a temporary ceasefire on October 19. Pakistan accuses the Taliban of providing shelter to militants linked to a rise in attacks across its border, but Kabul denies that Afghan territory is being used to launch assaults against Pakistan. Kabul has blamed Pakistan for the failed peace talks in Turkey after Islamabad did not agree “to stop violating Afghan airspace and prevent US drone flights.”

Pakistan’s Minister Khawaja Asif said that the Taliban regime is “blindly pushing Afghanistan into yet another conflict” just to retain its usurped rule. He warned the Afghan Taliban that another attack on Pakistani soil would prompt Pakistan to “wipe them out”.

‘Will push them back into caves…tails between their legs’: Pak minister says will ‘obliterate’ Afghan Taliban

Candace Owens launched an attack on FBI Director Kash Patel, saying that she does “not trust him at all.” She accused him of being “upset” because Tulsi Gabbard and Joe Kent are “trying to do their jobs and solve” the murder of Charlie Kirk, a Trump ally who was assassinated on September 10. Owens, a former Turning Point USA member, slammed Patel after The New York Times claimed in an article that he was “alarmed” by an inquiry by Kent, who leads the National Counterterrorism Center.Sharing the image of the article, Owens wrote on X, “This article is literally about how Kash Patel is upset that Joe Kent and Tulsi Gabbard are trying to do their jobs and solve the Charlie Kirk murder case.”“It’s like Kash Patel wants to be the sole point person on this—why?” she added. “I do not trust him at all.”In the article, The New York Times reported, “The inquiry by Joe Kent, the director of the counterterrorism center, alarmed Kash Patel, the director of the F.B.I. Mr. Patel and other senior officials believed Mr. Kent was overstepping, treading on F.B.I. responsibilities and potentially interfering with the investigation and the prosecution of the suspect, Tyler Robinson.”The article further reported, citing people familiar with the matter, that the FBI director was “troubled” because Kent went through the FBI material related to the case. It added that Kent’s efforts were “a topic at a White House meeting” which included Patel, Kent and Gabbard. Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles were also present at the meeting.Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.”Kirk, 31, was shot dead during a university event in Utah on September 10. Tyler Robinson, the prime accused, was apprehended by the police just 33 hours after his assassination.

Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.”

Candace Owens launched an attack on FBI Director Kash Patel, saying that she does “not trust him at all.” She accused him of being “upset” because Tulsi Gabbard and Joe Kent are “trying to do their jobs and solve” the murder of Charlie Kirk, a Trump ally who was assassinated on September 10. Owens, a former Turning Point USA member, slammed Patel after The New York Times claimed in an article that he was “alarmed” by an inquiry by Kent, who leads the National Counterterrorism Center. Sharing the image of the article, Owens wrote on X, “This article is literally about how Kash Patel is upset that Joe Kent and Tulsi Gabbard are trying to do their jobs and solve the Charlie Kirk murder case.” “It’s like Kash Patel wants to be the sole point person on this—why?” she added. “I do not trust him at all.” In the article, The New York Times reported, “The inquiry by Joe Kent, the director of the counterterrorism center, alarmed Kash Patel, the director of the F.B.I. Mr. Patel and other senior officials believed Mr. Kent was overstepping, treading on F.B.I. responsibilities and potentially interfering with the investigation and the prosecution of the suspect, Tyler Robinson.” The article further reported, citing people familiar with the matter, that the FBI director was “troubled” because Kent went through the FBI material related to the case. It added that Kent’s efforts were “a topic at a White House meeting” which included Patel, Kent and Gabbard. Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles were also present at the meeting. Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.” Kirk, 31, was shot dead during a university event in Utah on September 10. Tyler Robinson, the prime accused, was apprehended by the police just 33 hours after his assassination.

Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.”

‘I do not trust him at all’: Candace Owens questions Kash Patel on Charlie Kirk murder case

Speculations and conspiracy theories of aliens surveilling the Earth have always been around. But a breakthrough study has provided verified evidence suggesting that something or someone has been keeping an eye on our nuclear sites from space, way before the first human satellites made it into orbit. According to the research, thousands of objects sent by a non-human intelligence may have been spying on the nuclear tests in the world since the 1940s.Dr Beatriz Villarroel from the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics in Sweden drew a clear connection between nuclear tests between 1949 and 1957, with an increased number of sightings of mysterious bright spots called ‘transients’ in the sky. These transients are not believed to be a natural occurrence, but rather showed signs of being highly reflective, like a mirror, and even spinning like a flying saucer, Villarroel said.The findings of the study, which have been peer reviewed by other scientists, mark a major milestone, as most papers that talk about the existence of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) have been rejected by the scientific community.The researchers concluded that the mysterious transients were 45 per cent more likely to be seen flying above just before or right after a nuclear test. In addition, the total number of transients spotted also increased by 8.5 per cent on days when a nuclear test was taking place.The scientists discovered over 100,000 transients during their observations, with about 35,000 just in the northern hemisphere. The study found that nearly 60 of these objects were present in the orbit on days of nuclear testing, with witnesses reporting seeing UFOs, and 40 transients on days when only one of these two events took place.“These are objects before Sputnik One when humans had nothing up there, and these things, no matter what they are, they need to be really flat, reflective like a mirror, and I personally don’t know anything natural that looks like that,” Villarroel said.The study, which was published in Scientific Reports by Villarroel and Dr Stephen Bruehl, examined mysterious star-like objects spotted in old photographs from the Palomar Observatory Sky Survey in California during the early nuclear testing of the US, UK, and Soviet Union. Researchers focused on 124 nuclear tests which happened above-ground by the three nations, unlike the modern-day underground tests that are carried out now.The researchers observed unknown objects, which were caught in the photographs, that briefly appeared and vanished. It was ruled out that they were human-made craft since humans had not started launching any kind of satellites or devices into space at that time.Ruling out streaks or clouds created by the explosions, Villarroel told NewsNation, “Nature can always surprise us with something we could never have imagined. So, I cannot exclude that there might be some other explanation that is just outside my imagination.” She added, “But from what I see, I cannot find any other consistent explanation than that we are looking at something artificial.”Villarroel could not determine whether these objects were still there, but noted that they were truly constructed by a non-human intelligence, adding that they may still be around.Earlier, CIA documents have revealed a secret government program that established communications with UFOs in 1959. However, the FBI has claimed that those files are fake. The US government has also denied a speculation of an alleged UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947. While whistleblowers have said that this was just one of several non-human craft the US military has recovered since 1947.

The researchers concluded that the mysterious transients were 45 per cent more likely to be seen flying above just before or right after a nuclear test.

Speculations and conspiracy theories of aliens surveilling the Earth have always been around. But a breakthrough study has provided verified evidence suggesting that something or someone has been keeping an eye on our nuclear sites from space, way before the first human satellites made it into orbit. According to the research, thousands of objects sent by a non-human intelligence may have been spying on the nuclear tests in the world since the 1940s. Dr Beatriz Villarroel from the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics in Sweden drew a clear connection between nuclear tests between 1949 and 1957, with an increased number of sightings of mysterious bright spots called ‘transients’ in the sky. These transients are not believed to be a natural occurrence, but rather showed signs of being highly reflective, like a mirror, and even spinning like a flying saucer, Villarroel said. The findings of the study, which have been peer reviewed by other scientists, mark a major milestone, as most papers that talk about the existence of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) have been rejected by the scientific community. The researchers concluded that the mysterious transients were 45 per cent more likely to be seen flying above just before or right after a nuclear test. In addition, the total number of transients spotted also increased by 8.5 per cent on days when a nuclear test was taking place. The scientists discovered over 100,000 transients during their observations, with about 35,000 just in the northern hemisphere. The study found that nearly 60 of these objects were present in the orbit on days of nuclear testing, with witnesses reporting seeing UFOs, and 40 transients on days when only one of these two events took place. “These are objects before Sputnik One when humans had nothing up there, and these things, no matter what they are, they need to be really flat, reflective like a mirror, and I personally don’t know anything natural that looks like that,” Villarroel said. The study, which was published in Scientific Reports by Villarroel and Dr Stephen Bruehl, examined mysterious star-like objects spotted in old photographs from the Palomar Observatory Sky Survey in California during the early nuclear testing of the US, UK, and Soviet Union. Researchers focused on 124 nuclear tests which happened above-ground by the three nations, unlike the modern-day underground tests that are carried out now. The researchers observed unknown objects, which were caught in the photographs, that briefly appeared and vanished. It was ruled out that they were human-made craft since humans had not started launching any kind of satellites or devices into space at that time. Ruling out streaks or clouds created by the explosions, Villarroel told NewsNation, “Nature can always surprise us with something we could never have imagined. So, I cannot exclude that there might be some other explanation that is just outside my imagination.” She added, “But from what I see, I cannot find any other consistent explanation than that we are looking at something artificial.” Villarroel could not determine whether these objects were still there, but noted that they were truly constructed by a non-human intelligence, adding that they may still be around. Earlier, CIA documents have revealed a secret government program that established communications with UFOs in 1959. However, the FBI has claimed that those files are fake. The US government has also denied a speculation of an alleged UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947. While whistleblowers have said that this was just one of several non-human craft the US military has recovered since 1947.

The researchers concluded that the mysterious transients were 45 per cent more likely to be seen flying above just before or right after a nuclear test.

Aliens spying on Earth's dangerous nuclear sites for last 85 years? Alarming study claims...

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Donald Trump embarked on the last leg of his Asia Trip. The US president has been optimistic about settling tariff deal with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. "We did. We reached a deal. We did a lot of different things. Great session," Trump told journalists when asked if a deal had been reached.&nbsp;And a little later, he said the deal was&nbsp;"pretty much finalised". Reached or pretty much there is something only time will tell. Earlier in July, Trump had agreed on cutting tariffs on South Korean imports to 15% but it came with a catch which was in exchange for a $350 billion investment pledge.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seven-brand-new-beautiful-planes-were-shot-down-trump-rakes-up-india-pak-conflict-once-again-1761689090510">Seven "brand new, beautiful planes" were shot down: Trump rakes up India-Pak conflict once again</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But steep auto tariffs remained in place, and the two governments were divided over the structure of the investment pledge. Speaking to reporters, top Seoul presidential aide Kim Yong-beom confirmed a broad deal had been struck.Seoul and Washington had "reached an agreement on the details of the tariff negotiations", Kim confirmed. He said the two sides had agreed to maintain reciprocal tariffs at 15 percent following the preliminary agreement made in July.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-he-is-a-killer-trump-praises-nicest-looking-pm-modi-at-luncheon-with-south-korean-business-leaders-1761721568391">‘He is a killer’: Trump praises ‘nicest looking’ PM Modi at luncheon with South Korean business leaders</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The two sides also agreed to "cutting tariffs on automobiles and auto parts to 15 percent", down from 25 percent, said Kim, the president's policy chief. "South Korea's financial investment package for the United States, worth $350 billion, consists of $200 billion in cash investment and $150 billion in shipbuilding cooperation," Kim added.&nbsp;&nbsp;(With agency inputs) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Donald Trump embarked on the last leg of his Asia Trip. The US president has been optimistic about settling tariff deal with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. "

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Donald Trump embarked on the last leg of his Asia Trip. The US president has been optimistic about settling tariff deal with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. "We did. We reached a deal. We did a lot of different things. Great session," Trump told journalists when asked if a deal had been reached. And a little later, he said the deal was "pretty much finalised". Reached or pretty much there is something only time will tell. Earlier in July, Trump had agreed on cutting tariffs on South Korean imports to 15% but it came with a catch which was in exchange for a $350 billion investment pledge. Also read: Seven "brand new, beautiful planes" were shot down: Trump rakes up India-Pak conflict once again But steep auto tariffs remained in place, and the two governments were divided over the structure of the investment pledge. Speaking to reporters, top Seoul presidential aide Kim Yong-beom confirmed a broad deal had been struck. Seoul and Washington had "reached an agreement on the details of the tariff negotiations", Kim confirmed. He said the two sides had agreed to maintain reciprocal tariffs at 15 percent following the preliminary agreement made in July. Also read: ‘He is a killer’: Trump praises ‘nicest looking’ PM Modi at luncheon with South Korean business leaders The two sides also agreed to "cutting tariffs on automobiles and auto parts to 15 percent", down from 25 percent, said Kim, the president's policy chief. "South Korea's financial investment package for the United States, worth $350 billion, consists of $200 billion in cash investment and $150 billion in shipbuilding cooperation," Kim added. (With agency inputs)

On Wednesday (Oct 29), Donald Trump embarked on the last leg of his Asia Trip. The US president has been optimistic about settling tariff deal with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. "

'We reached a deal': Trump on trade deal with South Korea

NATO said Wednesday it had been informed in advance of US plans to reduce some of its troops deployed on the alliance's eastern flank, describing the move as an "adjustment" and nothing "unusual". Washington's commitment to the alliance remained "clear" and its presence in Europe sizeable, a NATO official told AFP. "Even with this adjustment, the US force posture in Europe remains larger than it has been for many years, with many more US forces on the continent than before 2022," the official said. The US has been expected to announce drawdowns in Europe following a review of its military deployments worldwide -- but no move has been officially communicated yet.&nbsp;Romania's defence ministry however previewed the scale-down Wednesday, saying Washington was to halt the rotation of a brigade that had elements in several NATO countries, including Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia and Hungary.The prospect of a US pullout is fraying the nerves of allies, especially given fears that Russia could look to attack a NATO country within the next few years if the war in Ukraine dies down.&nbsp;But NATO swiftly downplayed the significance of the planned US reduction in personnel. "The US commitment to NATO is clear," the official said. "NATO has robust defence plans in place and we are working to ensure we maintain the right forces and capabilities to deter potential aggression and provide for our collective defence."&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience. &nbsp;

The US has been expected to announce drawdowns in Europe following a review of its military deployments worldwide -- but no move has been officially communicated yet.

NATO said Wednesday it had been informed in advance of US plans to reduce some of its troops deployed on the alliance's eastern flank, describing the move as an "adjustment" and nothing "unusual". Washington's commitment to the alliance remained "clear" and its presence in Europe sizeable, a NATO official told AFP. "Even with this adjustment, the US force posture in Europe remains larger than it has been for many years, with many more US forces on the continent than before 2022," the official said. The US has been expected to announce drawdowns in Europe following a review of its military deployments worldwide -- but no move has been officially communicated yet. Romania's defence ministry however previewed the scale-down Wednesday, saying Washington was to halt the rotation of a brigade that had elements in several NATO countries, including Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia and Hungary. The prospect of a US pullout is fraying the nerves of allies, especially given fears that Russia could look to attack a NATO country within the next few years if the war in Ukraine dies down. But NATO swiftly downplayed the significance of the planned US reduction in personnel. "The US commitment to NATO is clear," the official said. "NATO has robust defence plans in place and we are working to ensure we maintain the right forces and capabilities to deter potential aggression and provide for our collective defence." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The US has been expected to announce drawdowns in Europe following a review of its military deployments worldwide -- but no move has been officially communicated yet.

Reduced US military presence in Europe an 'adjustment': NATO

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Cuba on early Wednesday (Oct 29) after leaving a trail of destruction across Jamaica, which has been designated a “disaster area” by authorities. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described the Atlantic storm as an “extremely dangerous hurricane”. The storm had weakened to Category 3 from Category 5 as it struck Santiago de Cuba province on the island’s southern coast.&nbsp;The hurricane hit with maximum sustained winds of approximately 120 mph (195 kmph), the NHC said. Local authorities have declared a “state of alert” in six eastern provinces of the country as residents fled the coast. Haiti authorities ordered the closure of schools, businesses and government offices on Wednesday. About 735,000 people have been evacuated, as per authorities.

In a post on X, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said, “We have just checked with the provinces the measures in the face of the passage of Melissa. The number of evacuees exceeds 735 thousand, and work continues.”&nbsp;“It will be a very difficult night for all of #Cuba, but we will recover, always with the faith in victory that Fidel and Raúl instilled in us,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>Jamaica declares ‘disaster area’</h2>&nbsp;Hours before it hit Cuba, Hurricane Melissa caused destruction in Jamaica as it made landfall as a Category 5 storm around midday Tuesday (Oct 28) with sustained winds of up to 185 mph (295 km/h). The hurricane is the worst to his the island country since meteorological records began.&nbsp;Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the island a “disaster area”. Authorities have warned residents to remain sheltered due to continued flooding and the risk of landslides. The scale of damage caused by Melissa is not clear yet as the island remains without power and disrupted communication networks. &nbsp;Minister Desmond McKenzie said several hospitals were damaged in the storm, including in Saint Elizabeth, a coastal district which he said was “underwater.”&nbsp;“The damage to Saint Elizabeth is extensive, based on what we have seen,” he said in a briefing. “Saint Elizabeth is the breadbasket of the country, and that has taken a beating. The entire Jamaica has felt the brunt of Melissa.”

The hurricane hit with maximum sustained winds of approximately 120 mph (195 kmph), the NHC said.

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Cuba on early Wednesday (Oct 29) after leaving a trail of destruction across Jamaica, which has been designated a “disaster area” by authorities. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described the Atlantic storm as an “extremely dangerous hurricane”. The storm had weakened to Category 3 from Category 5 as it struck Santiago de Cuba province on the island’s southern coast. The hurricane hit with maximum sustained winds of approximately 120 mph (195 kmph), the NHC said. Local authorities have declared a “state of alert” in six eastern provinces of the country as residents fled the coast. Haiti authorities ordered the closure of schools, businesses and government offices on Wednesday. About 735,000 people have been evacuated, as per authorities.

The hurricane hit with maximum sustained winds of approximately 120 mph (195 kmph), the NHC said.

‘Difficult night for all’: Hurricane Melissa makes landfall in Cuba, 735,000 evacuated

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‘Difficult night for all’: Hurricane Melissa makes landfall in Cuba