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Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who heads the Awami League, used her Sharadiya Durgotsav message to accuse Bangladesh's current authorities of failing to protect religious and ethnic minorities, drawing a sharp contrast with her party's record.&nbsp;In the statement, Hasina extended greetings to followers of the Sanatan faith in Bangladesh and abroad, describing Durga Puja as "a shining example of the thousand-year-old heritage, culture and communal harmony of timeless Bengal."&nbsp;&nbsp;Invoking the festival's central theme, she said: "Mother Durga is the symbol of strength and courage." She added that the festival reminds people that "however powerful injustice may be, in the end it is truth and the forces of good that triumph."&nbsp;Her tone shifted as she turned to the present. This year's festival, she said, "has come at a time when a deep sense of insecurity prevails among the religious and ethnic minorities of Bangladesh." She alleged that since 5 August 2024, the date she was removed from power, minority communities have faced "killings, persecution, vandalism of idols, attacks on temples and homes, seizure of property, extortion, violence against women and intimidation."&nbsp;Hasina directed much of her criticism at the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which she called "illegal," accusing it of creating "an environment of impunity for killers, attackers and communal forces." She said the problem had not eased under the BNP, which she claimed came to power "through a staged, non-participatory election."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-inflation-hits-3-7-as-rising-fuel-prices-pose-challenge-for-trump-ahead-of-midterms-1791990738117">US inflation hits 3.7% as rising fuel prices pose challenge for Trump ahead of midterms</a>&nbsp;She cited specific cases, including the killing of Rangpur teacher Ganapati Chakraborty and his family, which she said lacked a "credible and fair investigation," and that of Dipu Chandra Das of Bhaluka, whose accused killers she said had been granted bail. She also highlighted the detention of Hindu leader Chinmoy Prabhu, who she said was allowed only five hours of parole to attend his mother's funeral. "What kind of state system is this," she asked, "where those accused of murder walk free, yet a religious leader remains in prison year after year?"&nbsp;The message reflects the Awami League's effort to reposition itself as a defender of minorities while its own activities remain constrained. Hasina fled the country after mass protests in August 2024. Her remarks are political and contested: her allegations about attacks on Awami League members and minorities, and her characterisation of successive governments, are claims made by a party leader with a stake in the outcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;Still, minority safety during Durga Puja has long been a sensitive issue in Bangladesh, where Hindus are the largest religious minority.&nbsp;Hasina pledged that the Awami League would form a National Minority Commission and enact a Minority Protection Act, as promised in its 2024 manifesto. She urged supporters to "stand beside your Sanatan brothers and sisters" and told Hindus: "You are not alone."

Sheikh Hasina flags minority insecurity in Bangladesh, accuses successive governments of failing to protect religious communities and pledges a Minority Protection Act.

Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who heads the Awami League, used her Sharadiya Durgotsav message to accuse Bangladesh's current authorities of failing to protect religious and ethnic minorities, drawing a sharp contrast with her party's record. In the statement, Hasina extended greetings to followers of the Sanatan faith in Bangladesh and abroad, describing Durga Puja as "a shining example of the thousand-year-old heritage, culture and communal harmony of timeless Bengal." Invoking the festival's central theme, she said: "Mother Durga is the symbol of strength and courage." She added that the festival reminds people that "however powerful injustice may be, in the end it is truth and the forces of good that triumph." Her tone shifted as she turned to the present. This year's festival, she said, "has come at a time when a deep sense of insecurity prevails among the religious and ethnic minorities of Bangladesh." She alleged that since 5 August 2024, the date she was removed from power, minority communities have faced "killings, persecution, vandalism of idols, attacks on temples and homes, seizure of property, extortion, violence against women and intimidation." Hasina directed much of her criticism at the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which she called "illegal," accusing it of creating "an environment of impunity for killers, attackers and communal forces." She said the problem had not eased under the BNP, which she claimed came to power "through a staged, non-participatory election." Also Read: US inflation hits 3.7% as rising fuel prices pose challenge for Trump ahead of midterms She cited specific cases, including the killing of Rangpur teacher Ganapati Chakraborty and his family, which she said lacked a "credible and fair investigation," and that of Dipu Chandra Das of Bhaluka, whose accused killers she said had been granted bail. She also highlighted the detention of Hindu leader Chinmoy Prabhu, who she said was allowed only five hours of parole to attend his mother's funeral. "What kind of state system is this," she asked, "where those accused of murder walk free, yet a religious leader remains in prison year after year?" The message reflects the Awami League's effort to reposition itself as a defender of minorities while its own activities remain constrained. Hasina fled the country after mass protests in August 2024. Her remarks are political and contested: her allegations about attacks on Awami League members and minorities, and her characterisation of successive governments, are claims made by a party leader with a stake in the outcome. Still, minority safety during Durga Puja has long been a sensitive issue in Bangladesh, where Hindus are the largest religious minority. Hasina pledged that the Awami League would form a National Minority Commission and enact a Minority Protection Act, as promised in its 2024 manifesto. She urged supporters to "stand beside your Sanatan brothers and sisters" and told Hindus: "You are not alone."

Sheikh Hasina flags minority insecurity in Bangladesh, accuses successive governments of failing to protect religious communities and pledges a Minority Protection Act.

Sheikh Hasina warns of 'deep sense of insecurity' among Bangladesh's minorities in Durga Puja message

Donald Trump has had a remarkable run in the Republican primaries this year. But as the United States heads towards the November 3 midterm elections, a more important question hangs over his endorsement record: can he help Republicans keep control of Congress?The president's backing has proved difficult for many Republican challengers to overcome. By July 10, 220 of the 227 Trump-endorsed candidates whose primaries had been held had won, according to Ballotpedia. That put his success rate at nearly 97 per cent at the time.The figure makes for an impressive headline. It also comes with a caveat. A Republican primary is one contest; a general election, with a broader electorate and control of Congress at stake, is another.And Trump's choices have not always gone to plan.<h2>When Trump's endorsement wasn't enough</h2>Georgia was a particularly bruising example. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones had support from both Trump and Governor Brian Kemp in his bid for the Republican gubernatorial nomination. He lost the runoff to healthcare entrepreneur Rick Jackson.Jackson's campaign spent more than $100 million, the Associated Press reported. The result was a reminder that even a candidate with powerful political backing can be beaten by a rival with deep pockets and a compelling campaign of his own.Other Trump-backed candidates also fell short. Representative Randy Feenstra lost Iowa's Republican gubernatorial primary to Zach Lahn. In Minnesota, MyPillow chief executive Mike Lindell lost to state House Speaker Lisa Demuth. Florida Representative Cory Mills also lost his primary to Ryan Elijah. Trump had initially backed Mills but later said he had advised him to leave the race, endorsing Elijah after the defeat.These races do not tell the whole story of Trump's endorsements. Most of his candidates who had contested primaries by early July won. But the defeats make it harder to argue that his support alone can decide a race.<h2>The bigger fight is for Congress</h2>Several of Trump's preferred candidates have secured important Senate nominations. Mike Collins won the Republican runoff in Georgia, while Barry Moore prevailed in Alabama.Their primary victories are now behind them. The tougher work lies ahead.Collins faces Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in Georgia, a contest that could help determine which party controls the Senate. Georgia is one of several competitive Senate races that could shape the balance of power in November. Across the country, Republicans must also defend their House majority against Democrats hoping to capitalise on voter dissatisfaction with the administration.For Trump, the stakes are personal as well as political. A strong Republican performance would give him a reason to claim that his influence remains a decisive force in the party. Significant losses would invite questions about whether his standing with Republican primary voters translates into support at the ballot box more broadly.<h2>The money behind the races</h2>Campaign spending is another part of the story, although the figures need to be treated carefully.Jackson's spending in Georgia stands out, but it cannot be taken as the typical cost of defeating a Trump-backed candidate. Nor can spending across all congressional campaigns be attributed to the president's endorsement operation.The Federal Election Commission reported that congressional candidates raised approximately $2.8 billion and spent $2.04 billion between January 2025 and June 2026. These figures cover congressional candidates across the political spectrum, not just Trump's picks. A candidate-by-candidate comparison is needed to establish how much his preferred candidates spent and how their spending compared with that of their rivals.That is where a fuller audit could reveal more than a simple win-loss tally.<h2>November is the real test</h2>For now, Trump can point to a strong primary record, even with several prominent defeats on it. But the November 3 election will determine whether that record translates into something more consequential.Winning nominations has helped Trump shape the Republican field. Keeping Congress in Republican hands is a different matter. The results in November will show whether his endorsement power extends beyond the party's primaries — and whether it can help deliver the majorities Republicans need.

Trump's endorsement record is strong in Republican primaries, but November 3 poses a tougher test. With Congress at stake, his candidates must win over voters beyond the party's base.

Donald Trump has had a remarkable run in the Republican primaries this year. But as the United States heads towards the November 3 midterm elections, a more important question hangs over his endorsement record: can he help Republicans keep control of Congress? The president's backing has proved difficult for many Republican challengers to overcome. By July 10, 220 of the 227 Trump-endorsed candidates whose primaries had been held had won, according to Ballotpedia. That put his success rate at nearly 97 per cent at the time. The figure makes for an impressive headline. It also comes with a caveat. A Republican primary is one contest; a general election, with a broader electorate and control of Congress at stake, is another. And Trump's choices have not always gone to plan. When Trump's endorsement wasn't enough Georgia was a particularly bruising example. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones had support from both Trump and Governor Brian Kemp in his bid for the Republican gubernatorial nomination. He lost the runoff to healthcare entrepreneur Rick Jackson. Jackson's campaign spent more than $100 million, the Associated Press reported. The result was a reminder that even a candidate with powerful political backing can be beaten by a rival with deep pockets and a compelling campaign of his own. Other Trump-backed candidates also fell short. Representative Randy Feenstra lost Iowa's Republican gubernatorial primary to Zach Lahn. In Minnesota, MyPillow chief executive Mike Lindell lost to state House Speaker Lisa Demuth. Florida Representative Cory Mills also lost his primary to Ryan Elijah. Trump had initially backed Mills but later said he had advised him to leave the race, endorsing Elijah after the defeat. These races do not tell the whole story of Trump's endorsements. Most of his candidates who had contested primaries by early July won. But the defeats make it harder to argue that his support alone can decide a race. The bigger fight is for Congress Several of Trump's preferred candidates have secured important Senate nominations. Mike Collins won the Republican runoff in Georgia, while Barry Moore prevailed in Alabama. Their primary victories are now behind them. The tougher work lies ahead. Collins faces Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in Georgia, a contest that could help determine which party controls the Senate. Georgia is one of several competitive Senate races that could shape the balance of power in November. Across the country, Republicans must also defend their House majority against Democrats hoping to capitalise on voter dissatisfaction with the administration. For Trump, the stakes are personal as well as political. A strong Republican performance would give him a reason to claim that his influence remains a decisive force in the party. Significant losses would invite questions about whether his standing with Republican primary voters translates into support at the ballot box more broadly. The money behind the races Campaign spending is another part of the story, although the figures need to be treated carefully. Jackson's spending in Georgia stands out, but it cannot be taken as the typical cost of defeating a Trump-backed candidate. Nor can spending across all congressional campaigns be attributed to the president's endorsement operation. The Federal Election Commission reported that congressional candidates raised approximately $2.8 billion and spent $2.04 billion between January 2025 and June 2026. These figures cover congressional candidates across the political spectrum, not just Trump's picks. A candidate-by-candidate comparison is needed to establish how much his preferred candidates spent and how their spending compared with that of their rivals. That is where a fuller audit could reveal more than a simple win-loss tally. November is the real test For now, Trump can point to a strong primary record, even with several prominent defeats on it. But the November 3 election will determine whether that record translates into something more consequential. Winning nominations has helped Trump shape the Republican field. Keeping Congress in Republican hands is a different matter. The results in November will show whether his endorsement power extends beyond the party's primaries — and whether it can help deliver the majorities Republicans need.

Trump's endorsement record is strong in Republican primaries, but November 3 poses a tougher test. With Congress at stake, his candidates must win over voters beyond the party's base.

US midterm elections 2026: Trump’s picks won primaries. Will they deliver in November?

India’s top diplomat in Kabul has held talks with Afghanistan’s foreign minister, with both sides highlighting growing trade and the need for closer cooperation, against a backdrop of substantial Indian development assistance. Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, met Yatin Patel, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Indian Embassy, in a courtesy call in the Afghan capital. According to an Afghan readout of the meeting, Muttaqi wished Patel success in his new assignment and said the Islamic Emirate, “in line with its balanced policy, attaches importance to relations with India.” He noted that the volume of trade between the two countries is increasing and called for greater contact and cooperation between government and private-sector actors “to make maximum use of the capacities of both sides.” Patel, for his part, said India wishes to expand its engagement and relations with Afghanistan in the economic, political, and humanitarian fields. While India has not formally recognised the Islamic Emirate administration that came to power in 2021, it has maintained regular diplomatic contact and sustained humanitarian and development support. The exchange comes as India continues a long-standing development partnership that has encompassed more than 500 projects across all 34 Afghan provinces. In recent months, visits by Afghan ministers to India have focused on practical cooperation in humanitarian assistance, healthcare, food security, capacity-building, counter-narcotics, education, trade, and connectivity, aimed at addressing the needs of Afghanistan’s population of more than 48 million.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-inflation-hits-3-7-as-rising-fuel-prices-pose-challenge-for-trump-ahead-of-midterms-1791990738117">US inflation hits 3.7% as rising fuel prices pose challenge for Trump ahead of midterms</a>&nbsp;On the healthcare front, India has supplied specialised equipment including neonatal and paediatric care devices, ventilators, patient monitors, and surgical kits, along with additional essential medicines and consumables. It has also supported maternity clinic construction and, working with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, provided medical supplies and social-support items for the rehabilitation of drug addicts. Since August 2021, New Delhi has delivered more than 50,000 tonnes of wheat, over 450 tonnes of medicines and vaccines, and 40,000 litres of pesticides. Education links have expanded as well: more than 3,000 Afghan students, including 1,000 women, have received opportunities in India since 2023, with a further 1,000 scholarships offered for the current academic year. India has also extended financial and logistical support to women-led self-help groups. New Delhi withdrew its diplomats and shut the mission amid the chaotic US-led withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. In June 2022, it deployed a limited “technical team” to facilitate humanitarian aid, medical support, trade and consular services. In October 2025, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the upgrade during the first high-level visit by Afghan FM Amir Khan Muttaqi to Delhi. India formally restored embassy status with immediate effect later that month. The mission is headed by a chargé d’affaires.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met India's Chargé d’Affaires Yatin Patel in Kabul, stressing the importance of ties with New Delhi as both sides called for greater trade, economic engagement and cooperation.

India’s top diplomat in Kabul has held talks with Afghanistan’s foreign minister, with both sides highlighting growing trade and the need for closer cooperation, against a backdrop of substantial Indian development assistance. Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, met Yatin Patel, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Indian Embassy, in a courtesy call in the Afghan capital. According to an Afghan readout of the meeting, Muttaqi wished Patel success in his new assignment and said the Islamic Emirate, “in line with its balanced policy, attaches importance to relations with India.” He noted that the volume of trade between the two countries is increasing and called for greater contact and cooperation between government and private-sector actors “to make maximum use of the capacities of both sides.” Patel, for his part, said India wishes to expand its engagement and relations with Afghanistan in the economic, political, and humanitarian fields. While India has not formally recognised the Islamic Emirate administration that came to power in 2021, it has maintained regular diplomatic contact and sustained humanitarian and development support. The exchange comes as India continues a long-standing development partnership that has encompassed more than 500 projects across all 34 Afghan provinces. In recent months, visits by Afghan ministers to India have focused on practical cooperation in humanitarian assistance, healthcare, food security, capacity-building, counter-narcotics, education, trade, and connectivity, aimed at addressing the needs of Afghanistan’s population of more than 48 million. Also Read: US inflation hits 3.7% as rising fuel prices pose challenge for Trump ahead of midterms On the healthcare front, India has supplied specialised equipment including neonatal and paediatric care devices, ventilators, patient monitors, and surgical kits, along with additional essential medicines and consumables. It has also supported maternity clinic construction and, working with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, provided medical supplies and social-support items for the rehabilitation of drug addicts. Since August 2021, New Delhi has delivered more than 50,000 tonnes of wheat, over 450 tonnes of medicines and vaccines, and 40,000 litres of pesticides. Education links have expanded as well: more than 3,000 Afghan students, including 1,000 women, have received opportunities in India since 2023, with a further 1,000 scholarships offered for the current academic year. India has also extended financial and logistical support to women-led self-help groups. New Delhi withdrew its diplomats and shut the mission amid the chaotic US-led withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. In June 2022, it deployed a limited “technical team” to facilitate humanitarian aid, medical support, trade and consular services. In October 2025, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the upgrade during the first high-level visit by Afghan FM Amir Khan Muttaqi to Delhi. India formally restored embassy status with immediate effect later that month. The mission is headed by a chargé d’affaires.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met India's Chargé d’Affaires Yatin Patel in Kabul, stressing the importance of ties with New Delhi as both sides called for greater trade, economic engagement and cooperation.

Afghan FM Muttaqi to CdA Yatin Patel: We attach importance to relations with India

Three Indian nationals were found dead after a fire tore through a residential building in Bochum, Germany, early Tuesday (October 13). Five other people were injured in the blaze; however, their nationalities are not known. Investigators suspect that the fire may have been caused by arson. According to reports, German police have arrested a 41-year-old Romanian man who lived in the same building on suspicion of murder. Authorities have ruled out a technical fault as the cause of the fire, but have yet to establish whether it was deliberately set or started accidentally.<h2>What we know about fire incident</h2>The victims were two women, aged 25 and 27, and a 26-year-old man. Their identities and home states have not been disclosed yet. Firefighters found their bodies inside a second-floor apartment as emergency crews worked to bring the situation under control. The five injured in the incident suffered from smoke inhalation and were taken to hospitals in Bochum.German public broadcaster WDR said police had initial grounds to suspect the arrested resident of murder. He was questioned by officers from the homicide squad before police and prosecutors.<h2>Fire hampered rescue operations</h2>The incident happened at a multi-family residential building in Bochum’s Hofstede district. Emergency services were alerted around 4:15 am local time on Tuesday.The fire spread upwards through the building's stairwell, making it difficult for firefighters to reach residents on the upper floors. The smoke and flames blocked access through the staircase, forcing rescue teams to use alternative methods to evacuate people. According to reports, firefighters rescued two people using a turntable ladder, two others with portable ladders and another person with a safety cushion.Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the fire, including whether it was deliberately started. The arrested man remains under suspicion as authorities work to establish what led to the deaths of the three Indian nationals.

Three Indians nationals have died in a Bochum residential fire, while five others suffered smoke inhalation. Police arrested a Romanian resident as investigators examine suspected arson and murder.

Three Indian nationals were found dead after a fire tore through a residential building in Bochum, Germany, early Tuesday (October 13). Five other people were injured in the blaze; however, their nationalities are not known. Investigators suspect that the fire may have been caused by arson. According to reports, German police have arrested a 41-year-old Romanian man who lived in the same building on suspicion of murder. Authorities have ruled out a technical fault as the cause of the fire, but have yet to establish whether it was deliberately set or started accidentally. What we know about fire incident The victims were two women, aged 25 and 27, and a 26-year-old man. Their identities and home states have not been disclosed yet. Firefighters found their bodies inside a second-floor apartment as emergency crews worked to bring the situation under control. The five injured in the incident suffered from smoke inhalation and were taken to hospitals in Bochum. German public broadcaster WDR said police had initial grounds to suspect the arrested resident of murder. He was questioned by officers from the homicide squad before police and prosecutors. Fire hampered rescue operations The incident happened at a multi-family residential building in Bochum’s Hofstede district. Emergency services were alerted around 4:15 am local time on Tuesday. The fire spread upwards through the building's stairwell, making it difficult for firefighters to reach residents on the upper floors. The smoke and flames blocked access through the staircase, forcing rescue teams to use alternative methods to evacuate people. According to reports, firefighters rescued two people using a turntable ladder, two others with portable ladders and another person with a safety cushion. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the fire, including whether it was deliberately started. The arrested man remains under suspicion as authorities work to establish what led to the deaths of the three Indian nationals.

Three Indians nationals have died in a Bochum residential fire, while five others suffered smoke inhalation. Police arrested a Romanian resident as investigators examine suspected arson and murder.

Three Indians killed in suspected arson attack in Germany, Romanian resident arrested

New Delhi: The decision by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan to sign a joint defence agreement in Mecca rather than in any of their capitals was never merely logistical. By gathering Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for both the signing, the three governments converted a military compact into a claim of broader Islamic legitimacy. The text itself, however, remains strikingly thin on operational detail.&nbsp;Supporters describe the pact as a pragmatic instrument of collective deterrence at a time of regional instability. Pakistan already has several thousand troops, aircraft and air defence systems in the kingdom under a bilateral arrangement from September 2025; the trilateral document simply widens the political umbrella. Turkey brings the weight of a large NATO army and advanced technical capabilities, while Saudi Arabia supplies the geographic and financial centrality. Pakistani officials have since suggested that six or seven other Muslim-majority states may seek to join, framing the arrangement as open-ended rather than exclusive.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rise-up-young-patriots-american-singer-mary-millben-says-us-donors-funding-cjp-backs-modi-govt-1791978203856">‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt</a>&nbsp;Yet the absence of a named adversary is both the pact’s selling point and its principal weakness. Without a clear definition of the threat it is meant to address, the threshold for activation remains opaque. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has insisted that any Pakistani role will be supportive and that Saudi forces will conduct direct combat. What “supportive” covers, reconnaissance, air defence, logistics or something broader, has not been spelt out.&nbsp;&nbsp;The same ambiguity surrounds the nuclear question. Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed party; the published text is silent on whether its deterrent is included, and no official has ruled the possibility out. In the absence of explicit language, speculation fills the gap.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-not-a-middle-power-but-a-power-in-the-middle-says-eam-jaishankar-cites-pm-modi-s-definition-1791974178456">India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition</a>&nbsp;Turkey’s posture adds a further layer of uncertainty. Ankara has so far limited its public commitments to air defence and technical assistance, and its parliament had not ratified the agreement two months after the Mecca ceremony. If the political weight of the pact rests disproportionately on Islamabad and Riyadh, the arrangement risks becoming less trilateral than bilateral in practice.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-seeking-to-attack-iran-again-before-the-israel-election-says-benjamin-netanyahu-1791986105697">‘Not seeking to attack Iran again before Israel elections,’ says Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;Domestic considerations in Pakistan also deserve scrutiny. The country hosts a large Shia minority whose security has repeatedly been tested by sectarian violence. Field Marshal Asim Munir’s reported remarks to Shia clerics in Rawalpindi, warning that loyalty to foreign causes would not be permitted to create disorder at home, were widely read by community leaders as signalling an uncompromising line. Whether a Saudi-led defence framework can remain insulated from Pakistan’s own sectarian tensions is an open question that officials have so far declined to address in detail.&nbsp;Financial context is equally difficult to separate from the security one. Saudi deposits arrived shortly before Pakistani aircraft reached the kingdom in April; the Mecca pact followed weeks later. No official has linked the money to the military commitments, yet the sequence invites scrutiny of the conditions under which Pakistan’s resources are being committed abroad.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-flydubai-co-pilot-attack-air-france-bans-pakistani-muslim-majority-crew-on-israel-flights-1791993498720">After flydubai co-pilot attack, Air France bans Pakistani, Muslim-majority crew on Israel flights</a>&nbsp;The Mecca agreement has succeeded in projecting unity and resolve. What it has not yet done is define the precise circumstances in which that resolve would be tested, or how the three capitals would share the political and military costs. Until those questions are answered, the pact remains more a declaration than a doctrine. The ongoing Houthi attacks have only raised more questions, especially on Islamabad's commitment, given it faces several challenges at home, including separatist one in restive Balochistan province.

Ambiguity surrounds the nuclear question also as Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed party; the published text is silent on whether its deterrent is included, and no official has ruled the possibility out. In the absence of explicit language, speculation fills the gap.

New Delhi: The decision by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan to sign a joint defence agreement in Mecca rather than in any of their capitals was never merely logistical. By gathering Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for both the signing, the three governments converted a military compact into a claim of broader Islamic legitimacy. The text itself, however, remains strikingly thin on operational detail. Supporters describe the pact as a pragmatic instrument of collective deterrence at a time of regional instability. Pakistan already has several thousand troops, aircraft and air defence systems in the kingdom under a bilateral arrangement from September 2025; the trilateral document simply widens the political umbrella. Turkey brings the weight of a large NATO army and advanced technical capabilities, while Saudi Arabia supplies the geographic and financial centrality. Pakistani officials have since suggested that six or seven other Muslim-majority states may seek to join, framing the arrangement as open-ended rather than exclusive. Also Read: ‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt Yet the absence of a named adversary is both the pact’s selling point and its principal weakness. Without a clear definition of the threat it is meant to address, the threshold for activation remains opaque. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has insisted that any Pakistani role will be supportive and that Saudi forces will conduct direct combat. What “supportive” covers, reconnaissance, air defence, logistics or something broader, has not been spelt out. The same ambiguity surrounds the nuclear question. Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed party; the published text is silent on whether its deterrent is included, and no official has ruled the possibility out. In the absence of explicit language, speculation fills the gap. Also Read: India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition Turkey’s posture adds a further layer of uncertainty. Ankara has so far limited its public commitments to air defence and technical assistance, and its parliament had not ratified the agreement two months after the Mecca ceremony. If the political weight of the pact rests disproportionately on Islamabad and Riyadh, the arrangement risks becoming less trilateral than bilateral in practice. Also Read: ‘Not seeking to attack Iran again before Israel elections,’ says Benjamin Netanyahu Domestic considerations in Pakistan also deserve scrutiny. The country hosts a large Shia minority whose security has repeatedly been tested by sectarian violence. Field Marshal Asim Munir’s reported remarks to Shia clerics in Rawalpindi, warning that loyalty to foreign causes would not be permitted to create disorder at home, were widely read by community leaders as signalling an uncompromising line. Whether a Saudi-led defence framework can remain insulated from Pakistan’s own sectarian tensions is an open question that officials have so far declined to address in detail. Financial context is equally difficult to separate from the security one. Saudi deposits arrived shortly before Pakistani aircraft reached the kingdom in April; the Mecca pact followed weeks later. No official has linked the money to the military commitments, yet the sequence invites scrutiny of the conditions under which Pakistan’s resources are being committed abroad. Also Read: After flydubai co-pilot attack, Air France bans Pakistani, Muslim-majority crew on Israel flights The Mecca agreement has succeeded in projecting unity and resolve. What it has not yet done is define the precise circumstances in which that resolve would be tested, or how the three capitals would share the political and military costs. Until those questions are answered, the pact remains more a declaration than a doctrine. The ongoing Houthi attacks have only raised more questions, especially on Islamabad's commitment, given it faces several challenges at home, including separatist one in restive Balochistan province.

Ambiguity surrounds the nuclear question also as Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed party; the published text is silent on whether its deterrent is included, and no official has ruled the possibility out. In the absence of explicit language, speculation fills the gap.

A Mecca defence pact that leaves more questions than answers

US inflation accelerated in September as rising gasoline prices and persistent price pressures increased the cost of living for American households, adding to the challenges facing President Donald Trump ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.&nbsp;The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.7 per cent year-on-year, up from 3.4 per cent in August, according to data released by the US Labour Department on Wednesday. On a monthly basis, prices increased 0.6 per cent, compared with 0.4 per cent in the previous month. The annual rate was above economists' expectations of 3.6 per cent.&nbsp;Higher energy costs following the US-Israeli war with Iran have added to inflationary pressure. Gasoline prices rose 9.1 per cent in September, accounting for more than half of the monthly increase in consumer prices. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, also edged higher, reaching 2.6 per cent year-on-year from 2.4 per cent in August.&nbsp;Rising fuel costs have affected other sectors, including travel. Airfares increased 1.2 per cent during the month and were up around 22 per cent from a year earlier, while hotel prices rose 2 per cent. The continued rise in household expenses has made affordability a major concern ahead of the elections.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-us-starlink-of-aiding-russia-as-strikes-hit-kyiv-disrupt-power-1791988540349">Ukraine accuses US, Starlink of aiding Russia as strikes hit Kyiv, disrupt power supply</a><h2>Inflation adds to Trump's midterm challenges</h2>The rising cost of living could create further difficulties for Trump's Republican Party as it seeks to retain control of Congress. NBC News polling figures published in September showed Democrats leading Republicans by 52 per cent to 43 per cent on the question of which party should control Congress. Trump's approval rating has also weakened, adding to concerns for Republicans ahead of the vote.&nbsp;Facing pressure to bring down fuel prices, Trump struck a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to allow Russian diesel supplies to reach the US and other markets. The move marked a shift from Washington's previous efforts to restrict Russian energy revenues following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The deal has drawn criticism from Kyiv, with Zelensky arguing that it could help fund Russia's war effort.&nbsp;Trump has also urged Zelensky to stop attacking Russian oil refineries and suggested that Ukraine should have a new president. His push for an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine has added another layer to the tensions between Washington and Kyiv, as the US president faces growing domestic pressure over energy prices.

US inflation rose to 3.7 per cent in September as gasoline prices surged, putting further pressure on Donald Trump ahead of the midterm elections and prompting his administration to seek Russian diesel supplies to ease fuel costs.

US inflation accelerated in September as rising gasoline prices and persistent price pressures increased the cost of living for American households, adding to the challenges facing President Donald Trump ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.7 per cent year-on-year, up from 3.4 per cent in August, according to data released by the US Labour Department on Wednesday. On a monthly basis, prices increased 0.6 per cent, compared with 0.4 per cent in the previous month. The annual rate was above economists' expectations of 3.6 per cent. Higher energy costs following the US-Israeli war with Iran have added to inflationary pressure. Gasoline prices rose 9.1 per cent in September, accounting for more than half of the monthly increase in consumer prices. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, also edged higher, reaching 2.6 per cent year-on-year from 2.4 per cent in August. Rising fuel costs have affected other sectors, including travel. Airfares increased 1.2 per cent during the month and were up around 22 per cent from a year earlier, while hotel prices rose 2 per cent. The continued rise in household expenses has made affordability a major concern ahead of the elections. Also Read: Ukraine accuses US, Starlink of aiding Russia as strikes hit Kyiv, disrupt power supply Inflation adds to Trump's midterm challenges The rising cost of living could create further difficulties for Trump's Republican Party as it seeks to retain control of Congress. NBC News polling figures published in September showed Democrats leading Republicans by 52 per cent to 43 per cent on the question of which party should control Congress. Trump's approval rating has also weakened, adding to concerns for Republicans ahead of the vote. Facing pressure to bring down fuel prices, Trump struck a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to allow Russian diesel supplies to reach the US and other markets. The move marked a shift from Washington's previous efforts to restrict Russian energy revenues following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The deal has drawn criticism from Kyiv, with Zelensky arguing that it could help fund Russia's war effort. Trump has also urged Zelensky to stop attacking Russian oil refineries and suggested that Ukraine should have a new president. His push for an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine has added another layer to the tensions between Washington and Kyiv, as the US president faces growing domestic pressure over energy prices.

US inflation rose to 3.7 per cent in September as gasoline prices surged, putting further pressure on Donald Trump ahead of the midterm elections and prompting his administration to seek Russian diesel supplies to ease fuel costs.

US inflation hits 3.7% as rising fuel prices pose challenge for Trump ahead of midterms

Air France has banned Pakistani pilots and crew members from operating flights to and from Israel, after the Jewish nation reinforced restrictions for airline crew from countries that don’t have diplomatic relations with it. The action comes after the attempted terror attack by an Omani co-pilot aboard a flydubai flight on September 30. Oman is one of the countries that doesn’t have diplomatic ties with Israel.The restrictions could affect crew members who hold citizenship of any of the listed countries, including those who also hold another nationality.&nbsp;Following the Air France ban on airline crew from 31 nations, including Pakistan, Chicago-based United Airlines has informed their pilots and cabin crew about nationality-based rules for flights to and from Israel. The restrictions have raised questions about their implications for international aviation and if more airlines would follow the same to comply with Israeli rules.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-seeking-to-attack-iran-again-before-the-israel-election-says-benjamin-netanyahu-1791986105697">‘Not seeking to attack Iran again before Israel elections,’ says Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;According to reports of French investigative publication Mediapart and aviation intelligence company ch-aviation, both airlines have informed flight and cabin crew about the restrictions imposed by Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Mediapart report, Air France has reportedly instructed employees to disclose any second nationality, warning that failure to do so could result in disciplinary action.&nbsp;While Air France has confirmed that it is complying with the requirements, United Airlines has incorporated them into its crew-planning procedures.&nbsp;“The staff concerned have been informed of the new regulations implemented by the Israeli authorities for flights to Tel Aviv,” Air France said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rise-up-young-patriots-american-singer-mary-millben-says-us-donors-funding-cjp-backs-modi-govt-1791978203856">‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt</a>&nbsp;According to Israeli broadcaster N12, Israel’s Ministry of Transport and Road Safety informed foreign airlines on October 1 that pilots and cabin crew operating flights into Israeli airspace must not hold the nationality or dual nationality of countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel.&nbsp;The restrictions could affect dozens of airlines operating flights to, from or over Israel.The Israeli directive came a day after an Omani co-pilot allegedly attempted to hijack a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv and crash it into Israel’s Ben Gurion airport on September 30. The co-pilot is accused of attacking the aircraft’s Indian pilot.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Crew of which nationalities are banned from Israel flights</h2>&nbsp;Israel’s directive covers 31 countries, many of them Muslim-majority nations. The countries are Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Comoros, Cuba, Djibouti, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Venezuela and Yemen.&nbsp;The Israeli restrictions were in place before the flydubai terror attack attempt but were not strictly enforced.&nbsp;Israeli authorities relied largely on foreign airlines to ensure that crew members from countries with which Israel does not have diplomatic relations were excluded from flights to the country, instead of independently verifying their nationalities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-not-a-middle-power-but-a-power-in-the-middle-says-eam-jaishankar-cites-pm-modi-s-definition-1791974178456">India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition</a>&nbsp;The Shin Bet security service of Israel did not routinely conduct such checks. Israel’s transportation ministry also acknowledged that it lacked the intelligence infrastructure to systematically monitor airline crew rosters.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a result, pilots from countries including Oman, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan and Lebanon operated flights into Tel Aviv for years despite the existing guidelines.&nbsp;<h2>Ethiopian flight with Indonesian pilot ordered to turn back by Israel</h2>&nbsp;A flight of Ethiopian Airlines was the first to be affected by the new Israeli restrictions. The flight on Tuesday was about an hour into its journey and still in Ethiopian airspace when Israeli authorities ordered it to turn back after identifying an Indonesian pilot on board, reported The Jerusalem Post.The aircraft returned to Addis Ababa (the Ethiopian capital), where the pilot was replaced, before departing again and landing in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

Israel’s directive covers 31 countries, including Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Comoros, Cuba, Djibouti, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, and Yemen.

Air France has banned Pakistani pilots and crew members from operating flights to and from Israel, after the Jewish nation reinforced restrictions for airline crew from countries that don’t have diplomatic relations with it. The action comes after the attempted terror attack by an Omani co-pilot aboard a flydubai flight on September 30. Oman is one of the countries that doesn’t have diplomatic ties with Israel. The restrictions could affect crew members who hold citizenship of any of the listed countries, including those who also hold another nationality. Following the Air France ban on airline crew from 31 nations, including Pakistan, Chicago-based United Airlines has informed their pilots and cabin crew about nationality-based rules for flights to and from Israel. The restrictions have raised questions about their implications for international aviation and if more airlines would follow the same to comply with Israeli rules. Also Read: ‘Not seeking to attack Iran again before Israel elections,’ says Benjamin Netanyahu According to reports of French investigative publication Mediapart and aviation intelligence company ch-aviation, both airlines have informed flight and cabin crew about the restrictions imposed by Israel. According to Mediapart report, Air France has reportedly instructed employees to disclose any second nationality, warning that failure to do so could result in disciplinary action. While Air France has confirmed that it is complying with the requirements, United Airlines has incorporated them into its crew-planning procedures. “The staff concerned have been informed of the new regulations implemented by the Israeli authorities for flights to Tel Aviv,” Air France said. Also Read: ‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt According to Israeli broadcaster N12, Israel’s Ministry of Transport and Road Safety informed foreign airlines on October 1 that pilots and cabin crew operating flights into Israeli airspace must not hold the nationality or dual nationality of countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel. The restrictions could affect dozens of airlines operating flights to, from or over Israel. The Israeli directive came a day after an Omani co-pilot allegedly attempted to hijack a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv and crash it into Israel’s Ben Gurion airport on September 30. The co-pilot is accused of attacking the aircraft’s Indian pilot. Crew of which nationalities are banned from Israel flights Israel’s directive covers 31 countries, many of them Muslim-majority nations. The countries are Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Comoros, Cuba, Djibouti, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Venezuela and Yemen. The Israeli restrictions were in place before the flydubai terror attack attempt but were not strictly enforced. Israeli authorities relied largely on foreign airlines to ensure that crew members from countries with which Israel does not have diplomatic relations were excluded from flights to the country, instead of independently verifying their nationalities. Also Read: India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition The Shin Bet security service of Israel did not routinely conduct such checks. Israel’s transportation ministry also acknowledged that it lacked the intelligence infrastructure to systematically monitor airline crew rosters. As a result, pilots from countries including Oman, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan and Lebanon operated flights into Tel Aviv for years despite the existing guidelines. Ethiopian flight with Indonesian pilot ordered to turn back by Israel A flight of Ethiopian Airlines was the first to be affected by the new Israeli restrictions. The flight on Tuesday was about an hour into its journey and still in Ethiopian airspace when Israeli authorities ordered it to turn back after identifying an Indonesian pilot on board, reported The Jerusalem Post. The aircraft returned to Addis Ababa (the Ethiopian capital), where the pilot was replaced, before departing again and landing in Tel Aviv.

Israel’s directive covers 31 countries, including Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Comoros, Cuba, Djibouti, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, and Yemen.

After flydubai co-pilot attack, Air France bans Pakistani, Muslim-majority crew on Israel flights

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Oct 14) called on US President Donald Trump to impose tougher sanctions on Russia after a massive overnight aerial assault damaged energy infrastructure, leaving at least 600,000 people without electricity. Zelensky accused Moscow of deliberately targeting facilities despite Trump’s announcement of an “energy ceasefire”. He questioned whether Russian President Vladimir Putin took Washington’s position seriously.“Russia does not consider the American President’s statements strong,” Zelensky said in a statement posted on X, describing the missile strike as a deliberate demonstration of disregard for the United States.<h2>Russia continues to target energy facilities</h2>Zelensky said that Russian forces launched 39 ballistic missiles and more than 120 attack drones and loitering munitions against critical infrastructure in Kyiv, the surrounding region and Kharkiv. The attack caused significant damage to 26 facilities within the country’s power system and four facilities in the oil and gas sector. The Ukrainian president warned that electricity outages could spread further as repair teams worked to restore supplies.The attack came days after Trump announced an agreement between Moscow and Kyiv to halt strikes on energy infrastructure, saying the arrangement was “effective immediately”.However, Ukraine has accused Russia of violating the proposed truce within hours of its announcement. Zelensky had earlier said six Ukrainian energy facilities were struck, leaving 33 people injured.Russia’s Defence Ministry on Wednesday said it had carried out a “massive strike by ground-launched high-precision weapons and long-range drones against communication and energy infrastructure facilities” in Kyiv and Kharkiv.<h2>Zelensky calls for sanctions, additional Patriot systems</h2>Zelensky called on Washington and the international community to respond firmly, urging Trump to impose stronger sanctions on Russia and provide Ukraine with additional Patriot missile interceptors.“We ask President Trump to impose STRONG sanctions on Russia,” he said, pointing to legislation associated with US Senator Lindsey Graham that he said authorised such measures.The overnight assault also damaged residential infrastructure in Kyiv. European Union Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova reported that a nine-storey apartment building had been hit, with rescuers helping residents escape as fire spread through homes.Zelensky thanked emergency personnel and energy workers responding to the damage, while warning that Ukraine should not be left to confront Russia alone.“Peace can only come through strength,” he said, calling on the United States to uphold that principle. &nbsp;

At least 600,000 people lost power in Ukraine after Russian missiles and drones struck energy facilities despite Trump’s announced ceasefire. Zelensky urged tougher sanctions and more Patriot interceptors.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Oct 14) called on US President Donald Trump to impose tougher sanctions on Russia after a massive overnight aerial assault damaged energy infrastructure, leaving at least 600,000 people without electricity. Zelensky accused Moscow of deliberately targeting facilities despite Trump’s announcement of an “energy ceasefire”. He questioned whether Russian President Vladimir Putin took Washington’s position seriously. “Russia does not consider the American President’s statements strong,” Zelensky said in a statement posted on X, describing the missile strike as a deliberate demonstration of disregard for the United States. Russia continues to target energy facilities Zelensky said that Russian forces launched 39 ballistic missiles and more than 120 attack drones and loitering munitions against critical infrastructure in Kyiv, the surrounding region and Kharkiv. The attack caused significant damage to 26 facilities within the country’s power system and four facilities in the oil and gas sector. The Ukrainian president warned that electricity outages could spread further as repair teams worked to restore supplies. The attack came days after Trump announced an agreement between Moscow and Kyiv to halt strikes on energy infrastructure, saying the arrangement was “effective immediately”. However, Ukraine has accused Russia of violating the proposed truce within hours of its announcement. Zelensky had earlier said six Ukrainian energy facilities were struck, leaving 33 people injured. Russia’s Defence Ministry on Wednesday said it had carried out a “massive strike by ground-launched high-precision weapons and long-range drones against communication and energy infrastructure facilities” in Kyiv and Kharkiv. Zelensky calls for sanctions, additional Patriot systems Zelensky called on Washington and the international community to respond firmly, urging Trump to impose stronger sanctions on Russia and provide Ukraine with additional Patriot missile interceptors. “We ask President Trump to impose STRONG sanctions on Russia,” he said, pointing to legislation associated with US Senator Lindsey Graham that he said authorised such measures. The overnight assault also damaged residential infrastructure in Kyiv. European Union Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova reported that a nine-storey apartment building had been hit, with rescuers helping residents escape as fire spread through homes. Zelensky thanked emergency personnel and energy workers responding to the damage, while warning that Ukraine should not be left to confront Russia alone. “Peace can only come through strength,” he said, calling on the United States to uphold that principle.

At least 600,000 people lost power in Ukraine after Russian missiles and drones struck energy facilities despite Trump’s announced ceasefire. Zelensky urged tougher sanctions and more Patriot interceptors.

‘600,000 people without electricity’: Zelensky calls for ‘strong’ US sanctions on Russia, accuses Moscow of violating Trump’s energy ceasefire

Ukraine has accused the United States of failing to provide timely warnings about Russian missile strikes and raised concerns over restrictions on Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet system, which its forces rely on for battlefield communications and frontline logistics.&nbsp;The accusations come amid worsening ties between Kyiv and Washington after US President Donald Trump lifted sanctions on Russian diesel last week and criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump has also urged Kyiv to stop attacking Russian oil refineries and suggested Ukraine should replace its wartime leader, amid pressure to bring down fuel prices that have risen since the US launched its war against Iran.<h3>Russian strikes kill nine, disrupt power supply</h3>Russian air attacks killed at least nine people in Ukraine on Wednesday and left hundreds of thousands without electricity after sustained strikes on energy infrastructure. The Russian Defence Ministry said its forces had carried out a "massive" strike on communications and energy infrastructure, hitting power and heating plants in Kyiv and the surrounding region, along with an electricity substation.&nbsp;The attacks followed two consecutive nights of ballistic missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital, with missiles reportedly hitting before air raid sirens could provide timely warnings. Damage to energy facilities cut electricity supplies to more than 600,000 people.&nbsp;Reacting to the attacks, Zelensky said Russia had shown open disrespect towards the United States."Russia does not consider the American President's statements strong," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-s-dipke-calls-for-lehra-do-tiranga-protest-at-delhi-s-connaught-place-on-oct-16-1791985165138">CJP's Dipke calls for 'Lehra do Tiranga' protest at Delhi's Connaught Place on Oct 16</a><h3>Ukraine questions US support as Washington denies policy shift</h3>Zelensky said the failure of Ukraine's Western partners to provide advance warnings about Russian ballistic missile launches was "completely unjust".&nbsp;&nbsp;Such gaps have been reported only rarely during the nearly five-year conflict, with Ukrainian officials previously pointing to hard-to-detect missiles or possible technical issues.&nbsp;Zelensky's adviser Sergiy Beskrestnov also linked the attacks to Starlink restrictions, describing the satellite network as the "most effective solution" for protecting Ukraine against Russian jet-powered attacks that can travel at up to 600 kilometres per hour.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Kremlin said it was monitoring developments for signs of a shift in US support for Kyiv."We are carefully noting all this. It is too early to draw any systemic conclusions," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.&nbsp;However, Trump insisted on Tuesday that Washington was still helping Ukraine. A US official told AFP on Wednesday that the country's policy had "not changed", while the European Union said there were no indications that intelligence sharing had stopped.

Ukraine has accused the United States of failing to provide timely warnings about Russian missile strikes and raised concerns over Starlink restrictions as deadly Russian attacks disrupt power supplies.

Ukraine has accused the United States of failing to provide timely warnings about Russian missile strikes and raised concerns over restrictions on Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet system, which its forces rely on for battlefield communications and frontline logistics. The accusations come amid worsening ties between Kyiv and Washington after US President Donald Trump lifted sanctions on Russian diesel last week and criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump has also urged Kyiv to stop attacking Russian oil refineries and suggested Ukraine should replace its wartime leader, amid pressure to bring down fuel prices that have risen since the US launched its war against Iran. Russian strikes kill nine, disrupt power supply Russian air attacks killed at least nine people in Ukraine on Wednesday and left hundreds of thousands without electricity after sustained strikes on energy infrastructure. The Russian Defence Ministry said its forces had carried out a "massive" strike on communications and energy infrastructure, hitting power and heating plants in Kyiv and the surrounding region, along with an electricity substation. The attacks followed two consecutive nights of ballistic missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital, with missiles reportedly hitting before air raid sirens could provide timely warnings. Damage to energy facilities cut electricity supplies to more than 600,000 people. Reacting to the attacks, Zelensky said Russia had shown open disrespect towards the United States. "Russia does not consider the American President's statements strong," he said. Also Read: CJP's Dipke calls for 'Lehra do Tiranga' protest at Delhi's Connaught Place on Oct 16 Ukraine questions US support as Washington denies policy shift Zelensky said the failure of Ukraine's Western partners to provide advance warnings about Russian ballistic missile launches was "completely unjust". Such gaps have been reported only rarely during the nearly five-year conflict, with Ukrainian officials previously pointing to hard-to-detect missiles or possible technical issues. Zelensky's adviser Sergiy Beskrestnov also linked the attacks to Starlink restrictions, describing the satellite network as the "most effective solution" for protecting Ukraine against Russian jet-powered attacks that can travel at up to 600 kilometres per hour. Meanwhile, the Kremlin said it was monitoring developments for signs of a shift in US support for Kyiv. "We are carefully noting all this. It is too early to draw any systemic conclusions," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. However, Trump insisted on Tuesday that Washington was still helping Ukraine. A US official told AFP on Wednesday that the country's policy had "not changed", while the European Union said there were no indications that intelligence sharing had stopped.

Ukraine has accused the United States of failing to provide timely warnings about Russian missile strikes and raised concerns over Starlink restrictions as deadly Russian attacks disrupt power supplies.

Ukraine accuses US, Starlink of aiding Russia as strikes hit Kyiv, disrupt power supply

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that he has no plans to go for a preemptive strike against Iran before the October 27 elections in the country but strictly warned Tehran and its proxies against ‌striking Israel. Israel and Iran have not traded fire since June.&nbsp;“It is not convenient for us, it’s no good,” Netanyahu said in an interview on Israel’s Army Radio when asked about the possibility of a preemptive strike and allegations by his political rivals that he was seeking a military confrontation ahead of the election.&nbsp;“They will blame me even if Iran fires missiles at us,” Netanyahu said, but he again warned Iran, ⁠saying Israel would respond forcefully if attacked.&nbsp;Netanyahu did not elaborate on the possibility of a preemptive strike after the election. He also did not share details of his recent discussions with Washington about Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rise-up-young-patriots-american-singer-mary-millben-says-us-donors-funding-cjp-backs-modi-govt-1791978203856">‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt</a>&nbsp;The United States and Iran have been at war since February 28, when the US and Israel attacked Iran, and Tehran responded with its own strikes on Israel and Gulf states.&nbsp;<h2>‘Many countries in the Middle East are turning to us following…’</h2>&nbsp;On being asked whether Israel was assisting Saudi Arabia against attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis, Netanyahu said, “I can only tell you that many countries in the Middle East are turning to us following our massive ‌success ⁠and tremendous achievements.”Saudi Arabia is witnessing escalation in Houthi strikes over the past week, including an attack on Riyadh airport on Saturday that killed 13 people.Netanyahu said Iran’s proxies were also looking to launch attacks on Israel before the election.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-not-a-middle-power-but-a-power-in-the-middle-says-eam-jaishankar-cites-pm-modi-s-definition-1791974178456">India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition</a><h2>Defence Minister Katz warns ⁠Hezbollah against attacking Israel</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Iran-backed Lebanese group ⁠Hezbollah against attacking Israel.“Hezbollah will suffer a severe blow and lose additional territories in southern Lebanon within the Nabatieh and Litani regions, which will become part of Israel’s permanent security zone,” he said.Katz added that a million Shi’ites would be displaced and that Hezbollah's stronghold in Beirut would not be spared.Israel launched air strikes and a ground invasion in southern Lebanon this year ⁠in parallel with the war in Iran, after Hezbollah fired into Israel in revenge for the attacks against Tehran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied allegations by his political rivals that he was seeking a military confrontation ahead of the election and said he has no plans to go for a preemptive strike against Iran before the October 27 elections.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that he has no plans to go for a preemptive strike against Iran before the October 27 elections in the country but strictly warned Tehran and its proxies against ‌striking Israel. Israel and Iran have not traded fire since June. “It is not convenient for us, it’s no good,” Netanyahu said in an interview on Israel’s Army Radio when asked about the possibility of a preemptive strike and allegations by his political rivals that he was seeking a military confrontation ahead of the election. “They will blame me even if Iran fires missiles at us,” Netanyahu said, but he again warned Iran, ⁠saying Israel would respond forcefully if attacked. Netanyahu did not elaborate on the possibility of a preemptive strike after the election. He also did not share details of his recent discussions with Washington about Iran. Also Read: ‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt The United States and Iran have been at war since February 28, when the US and Israel attacked Iran, and Tehran responded with its own strikes on Israel and Gulf states. ‘Many countries in the Middle East are turning to us following…’ On being asked whether Israel was assisting Saudi Arabia against attacks by the Iran-backed Houthis, Netanyahu said, “I can only tell you that many countries in the Middle East are turning to us following our massive ‌success ⁠and tremendous achievements.” Saudi Arabia is witnessing escalation in Houthi strikes over the past week, including an attack on Riyadh airport on Saturday that killed 13 people. Netanyahu said Iran’s proxies were also looking to launch attacks on Israel before the election. Also Read: India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition Defence Minister Katz warns ⁠Hezbollah against attacking Israel Meanwhile, Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Iran-backed Lebanese group ⁠Hezbollah against attacking Israel. “Hezbollah will suffer a severe blow and lose additional territories in southern Lebanon within the Nabatieh and Litani regions, which will become part of Israel’s permanent security zone,” he said. Katz added that a million Shi’ites would be displaced and that Hezbollah's stronghold in Beirut would not be spared. Israel launched air strikes and a ground invasion in southern Lebanon this year ⁠in parallel with the war in Iran, after Hezbollah fired into Israel in revenge for the attacks against Tehran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied allegations by his political rivals that he was seeking a military confrontation ahead of the election and said he has no plans to go for a preemptive strike against Iran before the October 27 elections.

‘Not seeking to attack Iran again before Israel elections,’ says Benjamin Netanyahu

Not only Generation Z, but every generation, irrespective of age and gender, had another a social media another option to consume news or ongoing developments on social media. But Gen Z are ahead of all generations, relying on social media as a source of information and entertainment. Social media became attractive as it is convenient to access and retrieve a lot of sources for political campaigns to share their messaging or meet their agenda. In recent years, political campaigns have also incorporated social media into their communication strategy for reaching voters. While TV remains the overall go-to source for election coverage, the study found that social media has become the more powerful force for Gen Z and Millennials in terms of influencing voting decisions and how they perceive political candidates. The Q3 2026 Pulse Survey Analysis revealed that close to half of Gen Z respondents had their voting choice shifted by something they saw in a single social media post.<h3>Social media shapes more than half of Gen Z voters in US</h3>The influence runs even deeper when it comes to opinion formation more broadly: more than half of all US voters, and a striking 79 per cent of Gen Z voters, said social media content has shaped or altered their views on candidates. With the November midterms drawing closer, the report also found that one in five Gen Z and Millennial users intend to turn to social platforms as their main way of tracking election developments. The report also indicates that nearly half of Gen Z say a single social media post has changed their opinion on who to vote for. Talking about TikTok, it has emerged as the unlikely newsroom for this generation in the US. Among young Americans, 44 per cent access news daily via social media, and a quarter name TikTok as their primary news platform, ahead of dedicated news apps. Instagram isn't far behind, functioning as a hybrid space for political content and social connection. Trust is notably high too: 53 per cent find social media news trustworthy, with only 16 per cent expressing active distrust.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-100-000-h-1b-fee-why-neither-republicans-nor-democrats-want-to-make-it-a-2026-us-midterm-issue-1791971903938">Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue</a> Gen Z is nearly twice as likely as the general population to lean on creators and influencers they follow for election information, and roughly 70 per cent of Gen Z follow at least one politician directly on social media, collapsing the distance between voters and candidates that once ran through press conferences and campaign ads. Surprisingly, one in five Gen Z and Millennial users decide to use social media specifically for election news as polling dates approach, making their feeds a running ballot briefing rather than a passive scroll, and making them more likely to be controlled by the algorithm. &nbsp;Yet this digital-first approach comes with caveats. Algorithmic feeds risk narrowing exposure to confirming viewpoints, and misinformation spreads as quickly as genuine civic content. Still, for a generation that treats TikTok and Instagram as search engines, news desks, and town halls rolled into one, the ballot box is increasingly being shaped scroll by scroll, making digital fluency as decisive to this election cycle as any traditional campaign strategy.

TikTok has emerged as the unlikely newsroom for this generation in the US. Among young Americans, 44 per cent access news daily via social media, and a quarter name TikTok as their primary news platform, ahead of dedicated news apps. 

Not only Generation Z, but every generation, irrespective of age and gender, had another a social media another option to consume news or ongoing developments on social media. But Gen Z are ahead of all generations, relying on social media as a source of information and entertainment. Social media became attractive as it is convenient to access and retrieve a lot of sources for political campaigns to share their messaging or meet their agenda. In recent years, political campaigns have also incorporated social media into their communication strategy for reaching voters. While TV remains the overall go-to source for election coverage, the study found that social media has become the more powerful force for Gen Z and Millennials in terms of influencing voting decisions and how they perceive political candidates. The Q3 2026 Pulse Survey Analysis revealed that close to half of Gen Z respondents had their voting choice shifted by something they saw in a single social media post. Social media shapes more than half of Gen Z voters in US The influence runs even deeper when it comes to opinion formation more broadly: more than half of all US voters, and a striking 79 per cent of Gen Z voters, said social media content has shaped or altered their views on candidates. With the November midterms drawing closer, the report also found that one in five Gen Z and Millennial users intend to turn to social platforms as their main way of tracking election developments. The report also indicates that nearly half of Gen Z say a single social media post has changed their opinion on who to vote for. Talking about TikTok, it has emerged as the unlikely newsroom for this generation in the US. Among young Americans, 44 per cent access news daily via social media, and a quarter name TikTok as their primary news platform, ahead of dedicated news apps. Instagram isn't far behind, functioning as a hybrid space for political content and social connection. Trust is notably high too: 53 per cent find social media news trustworthy, with only 16 per cent expressing active distrust. Also read: Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue Gen Z is nearly twice as likely as the general population to lean on creators and influencers they follow for election information, and roughly 70 per cent of Gen Z follow at least one politician directly on social media, collapsing the distance between voters and candidates that once ran through press conferences and campaign ads. Surprisingly, one in five Gen Z and Millennial users decide to use social media specifically for election news as polling dates approach, making their feeds a running ballot briefing rather than a passive scroll, and making them more likely to be controlled by the algorithm. Yet this digital-first approach comes with caveats. Algorithmic feeds risk narrowing exposure to confirming viewpoints, and misinformation spreads as quickly as genuine civic content. Still, for a generation that treats TikTok and Instagram as search engines, news desks, and town halls rolled into one, the ballot box is increasingly being shaped scroll by scroll, making digital fluency as decisive to this election cycle as any traditional campaign strategy.

TikTok has emerged as the unlikely newsroom for this generation in the US. Among young Americans, 44 per cent access news daily via social media, and a quarter name TikTok as their primary news platform, ahead of dedicated news apps.&nbsp;

US midterm elections 2026: How Gen Z voters consume elections on Social Media and are poised to vote - EXPLAINED

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has overturned the death sentence of a 27-year-old Sri Lankan migrant worker convicted of blasphemy over a Facebook comment, prompting relief in Colombo after weeks of diplomatic efforts to save his life. Anojan Sivarasa was sentenced to death in September after an appellate court convicted him of blasphemy against Islam and the Prophet Muhammad. The decision came after months of diplomatic efforts by Colombo to secure a reprieve for the migrant worker.Deputy Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra confirmed the latest ruling in a Facebook post, thanking Saudi authorities and the legal teams involved in the case. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also welcomed the decision.“I express my sincere appreciation to the Government of Saudi Arabia for this humane and just outcome,” Dissanayake said on X.<h2>How a Facebook comment led to death sentence</h2>The case can be traced to a social media controversy in late June. A video showing a young Muslim man kicking a dog after Hindu pilgrims passed by circulated online, prompting a heated exchange over religion.During the argument, a user posted derogatory remarks about a Hindu deity. Sivarasa responded in Tamil with an insulting comment about the Prophet Muhammad.He deleted the comment and posted an apology video, but a screenshot reportedly reached his employer and Saudi authorities. He was arrested in July.The Al-Ahsa Criminal Court initially sentenced him to five years in prison and imposed a fine of three million Saudi riyals. Sivarasa appealed the ruling, but the appellate court subsequently increased his punishment to death.<h2>His future remains uncertain</h2>While the Supreme Court’s decision removes the death sentence, it is not yet clear whether Sivarasa will face further proceedings or remain in custody. Sri Lankan lawmaker Faizer Mustafa, who has been involved in negotiations with Saudi Arabia, told BBC Sinhala that the latest ruling was being reviewed.Sivarasa’s family had earlier said they had not been in direct contact with him since September 28.Human Rights Watch had called on Saudi Arabia to spare his life. The case also brought back memories of Sri Lankan domestic worker Rizana Nafeek, who was executed in Saudi Arabia in 2013 after being convicted of murdering her employer’s baby, despite appeals for clemency.For Sivarasa, the latest ruling marks a significant turn in a case that began with an online exchange. Whether it will lead to his release, however, remains unanswered.

Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has overturned Sri Lankan worker Anojan Sivarasa's death sentence over a Facebook comment deemed blasphemous. His detention and the next legal steps remain unclear.

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has overturned the death sentence of a 27-year-old Sri Lankan migrant worker convicted of blasphemy over a Facebook comment, prompting relief in Colombo after weeks of diplomatic efforts to save his life. Anojan Sivarasa was sentenced to death in September after an appellate court convicted him of blasphemy against Islam and the Prophet Muhammad. The decision came after months of diplomatic efforts by Colombo to secure a reprieve for the migrant worker. Deputy Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra confirmed the latest ruling in a Facebook post, thanking Saudi authorities and the legal teams involved in the case. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also welcomed the decision. “I express my sincere appreciation to the Government of Saudi Arabia for this humane and just outcome,” Dissanayake said on X. How a Facebook comment led to death sentence The case can be traced to a social media controversy in late June. A video showing a young Muslim man kicking a dog after Hindu pilgrims passed by circulated online, prompting a heated exchange over religion. During the argument, a user posted derogatory remarks about a Hindu deity. Sivarasa responded in Tamil with an insulting comment about the Prophet Muhammad. He deleted the comment and posted an apology video, but a screenshot reportedly reached his employer and Saudi authorities. He was arrested in July. The Al-Ahsa Criminal Court initially sentenced him to five years in prison and imposed a fine of three million Saudi riyals. Sivarasa appealed the ruling, but the appellate court subsequently increased his punishment to death. His future remains uncertain While the Supreme Court’s decision removes the death sentence, it is not yet clear whether Sivarasa will face further proceedings or remain in custody. Sri Lankan lawmaker Faizer Mustafa, who has been involved in negotiations with Saudi Arabia, told BBC Sinhala that the latest ruling was being reviewed. Sivarasa’s family had earlier said they had not been in direct contact with him since September 28. Human Rights Watch had called on Saudi Arabia to spare his life. The case also brought back memories of Sri Lankan domestic worker Rizana Nafeek, who was executed in Saudi Arabia in 2013 after being convicted of murdering her employer’s baby, despite appeals for clemency. For Sivarasa, the latest ruling marks a significant turn in a case that began with an online exchange. Whether it will lead to his release, however, remains unanswered.

Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has overturned Sri Lankan worker Anojan Sivarasa's death sentence over a Facebook comment deemed blasphemous. His detention and the next legal steps remain unclear.

Saudi Arabia overturns Sri Lankan man’s death sentence over Facebook comment

American singer Mary Millben has made an explosive claim and alleged that the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is being funded by donors in the United States opposed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She also urged young Indians to rise up and protest against the disruptive outfit.She alleged that Abhijeet Dipke and CJP were “being funded by donors in the US who are against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your future under his leadership”.“To all the beautiful young patriots in India: This is not the time to be silent,” Millben wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Do not fear, my young patriots. Your Prime Minister, who has served India for 25 years, 12 years as Prime Minister, elected three consecutive terms, is not going to bow to disruptive forces from my country,” she wrote.&nbsp;Millben further alleged that the donors followed a pattern globally of targeting conservative leaders.&nbsp;“Find a US-educated person from the country, radicalise them, send them back to the country, and fund them to start chaos and destruction,” she wrote, adding that while such efforts had not succeeded, they had “impacted the development and governance of the country”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">To all the beautiful young patriots in India:

This is not the time to be silent. @abhijeet_dipke and the @Cockroachisback are being funded by donors in the U.S. who are against Prime Minister @NarendraModi and your future under his leadership. Do not fear, my young patriots. Your Prime Minister, who has served India for 25 years, 12 years as Prime Minister, elected three consecutive terms, is not going to bow to disruptive forces from my country. 

And these select donors have a pattern globally - target conservative global leaders, find an U.S. educated person from the country, radicalize them, send them back to the country, and fund them to start chaos and destruction. None of them have been successful but have impacted the development and governance of the country. 

It is time for a new voice in #India, born, raised, educated on the soil of India, to RISE UP, organize, and peacefully protest the disruptive spirit of the Cockroach Party. There should always be a counter movement to uphold democracy and freedom. 

Rise up, young patriots! Rise up!&mdash; Mary Millben (@MaryMillben) <a href="https://x.com/MaryMillben/status/2110211574807879750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Calls on young patriots to ‘rise up’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Calling for a new voice in India, Millben said it was time for people “born, raised, educated on the soil of India, to RISE UP, organize, and peacefully protest the disruptive spirit of the Cockroach Party”.&nbsp;“There should always be a counter-movement to uphold democracy and freedom,” she added, ending her post with the appeal: “Rise up, young patriots! Rise up!”&nbsp;This is not the first time Millben has expressed support for the Modi government. Just a few days ago, she congratulated the prime minister on completing 25 years in public service, describing him as a “shining beacon of the Indian dream”. She also called for unity across communities to mark the milestone.&nbsp;<h2>Singer targeted Mamdani for opposing RRS event&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;In August, Millben criticised those opposing an upcoming Madison Square Garden event featuring Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat.&nbsp;Millben, known for her patriotic performances, came into the spotlight during India’s 75th Independence Day celebrations in 2022. A year later, she performed India’s national anthem during PM Modi’s visit to the US.&nbsp;In a post on X, she targeted New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and alleged that opponents were against the event because they opposed Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).&nbsp;Last year, Millben described Modi as “a good friend” and praised his leadership in India and on the global stage. She also called her experiences with the prime minister “memorable and inspiring”.&nbsp;<h2>Dipke and CJP face scrutiny over their finances&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;CJP and Dipke have previously faced scrutiny and RTI enquiries over their finances. Surat-based RTI activist Amit Tiwari had raised questions about how Dipke funded his education at Boston University in the US.&nbsp;Dipke has denied the allegations, saying his studies were funded through a university scholarship and an education loan.&nbsp;The allegations come amid questions raised by BJP leaders over the funding of CJP and its founder, Abhijeet Dipke. BJP president Nitin Nabin accused opposition leaders and the CJP of attempting to destabilise India with foreign backing, while BJP MP Nishikant Dubey questioned the sources of funding behind Dipke.Dipke rejected allegations of foreign funding and challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to explain how foreign funding could enter the country under his watch.

American singer Mary Millben has alleged that Abhijeet Dipke and the Cockroach Janta Party were being funded by donors in the US who are against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She exhorted people born and educated on Indian soil to rise up and protest against the disruptive spirit of CJP.

American singer Mary Millben has made an explosive claim and alleged that the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is being funded by donors in the United States opposed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She also urged young Indians to rise up and protest against the disruptive outfit. She alleged that Abhijeet Dipke and CJP were “being funded by donors in the US who are against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your future under his leadership”. “To all the beautiful young patriots in India: This is not the time to be silent,” Millben wrote in a post on X. “Do not fear, my young patriots. Your Prime Minister, who has served India for 25 years, 12 years as Prime Minister, elected three consecutive terms, is not going to bow to disruptive forces from my country,” she wrote. Millben further alleged that the donors followed a pattern globally of targeting conservative leaders. “Find a US-educated person from the country, radicalise them, send them back to the country, and fund them to start chaos and destruction,” she wrote, adding that while such efforts had not succeeded, they had “impacted the development and governance of the country”.

American singer Mary Millben has alleged that Abhijeet Dipke and the Cockroach Janta Party were being funded by donors in the US who are against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She exhorted people born and educated on Indian soil to rise up and protest against the disruptive spirit of CJP.

‘Rise up, young patriots!’: American singer Mary Millben says US donors funding CJP, backs Modi govt

Prominent African-American singer and media personality Mary Millben is back in the news. The singer has recently alleged that political activists and groups like the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) are receiving foreign funding from US-based donors, who are seeking to influence Indian politics and disrupt governance in the country.&nbsp;Millben is known for her regular commentary on Indian politics. She often uses social media platforms to praise Prime Minister Modi has his global leadership and is often critical of opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi.<h2>Who is Mary Millben?</h2>Raised in Oklahoma City, Millben began her career in Washington, DC, working as a White House intern and later as a Presidential Appointee under George W Bush.&nbsp;She has performed the US National Anthem and patriotic music for four consecutive US administrations, including George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden.<h2>Mary Millben's popularity in India</h2>Millben gained massive popularity within India and the Indian diaspora through her soulful renditions of the Indian National Anthem and the devotional hymn Om Jai Jagdish Hare.She first captured international attention in India after releasing a virtual performance of Jana Gana Mana to celebrate India’s 74th Independence Day during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, she also released a virtual performance of the Hindu aarti as a Diwali gift to her Indian audience worldwide.&nbsp;A year later, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) officially invited her to India as a cultural ambassador for the country’s 75th Independence Day celebrations.&nbsp;Then during PM Modi's US visit in 2023, she performed Jana Gana Mana at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C., during the diaspora event concluding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US State Visit.<h2>Allegations regarding CJP and US funding</h2>Mary Millben has recently publicly alleged that political activists and groups operating in India—specifically targeting organisations like the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)—are receiving foreign funding from US-based donors seeking to influence Indian politics and disrupt governance.&nbsp;Millben stated that US-based donors and special interest groups opposed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi are funding political groups and protest movements in India to destabilise the country's development. &nbsp;&nbsp;In a post on X, Millben appealed to young Indians to speak out, saying, “This is not the time to be silent.”&nbsp;

She urged young Indians to recognise these foreign influence efforts and peacefully resist disruptive political movements, expressing strong support for Prime Minister Modi and stating that India’s leadership will not bow to external disruptive forces.&nbsp;Millben urged young Indians to peacefully protest against what she described as the “disruptive spirit of the Cockroach Party”.&nbsp;She added, “There should always be a counter movement to uphold democracy and freedom,” before concluding her appeal with, “Rise up, young patriots! Rise up!”

Mary Millben, US singer and media commentator, has claimed that CJP-led protests in India are being funded by US-based donors. Here's all that you need to know about the singer.

Prominent African-American singer and media personality Mary Millben is back in the news. The singer has recently alleged that political activists and groups like the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) are receiving foreign funding from US-based donors, who are seeking to influence Indian politics and disrupt governance in the country. Millben is known for her regular commentary on Indian politics. She often uses social media platforms to praise Prime Minister Modi has his global leadership and is often critical of opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi. Who is Mary Millben? Raised in Oklahoma City, Millben began her career in Washington, DC, working as a White House intern and later as a Presidential Appointee under George W Bush. She has performed the US National Anthem and patriotic music for four consecutive US administrations, including George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. Mary Millben's popularity in India Millben gained massive popularity within India and the Indian diaspora through her soulful renditions of the Indian National Anthem and the devotional hymn Om Jai Jagdish Hare. She first captured international attention in India after releasing a virtual performance of Jana Gana Mana to celebrate India’s 74th Independence Day during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, she also released a virtual performance of the Hindu aarti as a Diwali gift to her Indian audience worldwide. A year later, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) officially invited her to India as a cultural ambassador for the country’s 75th Independence Day celebrations. Then during PM Modi's US visit in 2023, she performed Jana Gana Mana at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C., during the diaspora event concluding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US State Visit. Allegations regarding CJP and US funding Mary Millben has recently publicly alleged that political activists and groups operating in India—specifically targeting organisations like the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)—are receiving foreign funding from US-based donors seeking to influence Indian politics and disrupt governance. Millben stated that US-based donors and special interest groups opposed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi are funding political groups and protest movements in India to destabilise the country's development. In a post on X, Millben appealed to young Indians to speak out, saying, “This is not the time to be silent.”

Mary Millben, US singer and media commentator, has claimed that CJP-led protests in India are being funded by US-based donors. Here's all that you need to know about the singer.

US Singer Mary Millben alleges foreign funding for CJP, warns against anti-Modi forces: All you need to know

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday that India does not identify itself as a middle power but rather as a power in the middle. He pointed out that India is the world’s most populous country with a GDP of around four trillion dollars and significant growth potential, and hence the term ‘middle power’ does not reflect India’s position and ambitions adequately.&nbsp;He also quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his definition of a “middle power” as “the countries who have the power to empower”.&nbsp;“More than a middle power, in a way, we are powers in the middle. What would really define a middle power? To use the Prime Minister’s words, the countries who have the power to empower,” EAM Jaishankar said at a Bloomberg event in New Delhi.“Would India be a middle power? It’s not a comfortable description because if you are the most populous country in the world, you have a GDP of $4 trillion, give or take, and you have a lot of growth ahead of you, staring you in the face, then the middle power somehow seems to be limiting itself by that definition,” he added.&nbsp;The EAM further said that middle powers will now define their own interests, formulate independent policies and reach agreements with one another. “This would enable middle powers to play a more active role in shaping the emerging international order,” he said.&nbsp;“The middle powers would now each apply their own mind, stake out their own interests, figure out their own policies, and then reach arrangements with each other,” Jaishankar said.&nbsp;EAM also highlighted the growing importance of economic interdependence and the risks posed by the weaponisation of strategic resources in the changing global order.&nbsp;<h2>‘World of choke points’</h2>&nbsp;Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and financial mechanisms to exert pressure on others.“It’s also today a world of choke points, and you know the tendency to weaponise. We tend to think of rare earths as an example, but the fact is even finance is a choke point. I mean, sanctions are a choke point. I mean, people are weaponising their grip on finance or on the US dollar,” Jaishankar said.&nbsp;He said global competition would increasingly revolve around what different countries could offer and the agreements they could negotiate to advance their respective interests.&nbsp;“The point, I think, is we are moving to a world where the competition is going to be, to some degree, who has what to bring to the table, and then deals among them saying, you know, you do this, I do this. Let’s develop this together. Let’s trade this for each other,” he said in a discussion with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.&nbsp;Jaishankar also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically. He added that the current transition should not be seen as a shift from order to disorder but as the evolution of a different kind of order.

Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, EAM S Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and finances to exert pressure on others. He also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday that India does not identify itself as a middle power but rather as a power in the middle. He pointed out that India is the world’s most populous country with a GDP of around four trillion dollars and significant growth potential, and hence the term ‘middle power’ does not reflect India’s position and ambitions adequately. He also quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his definition of a “middle power” as “the countries who have the power to empower”. “More than a middle power, in a way, we are powers in the middle. What would really define a middle power? To use the Prime Minister’s words, the countries who have the power to empower,” EAM Jaishankar said at a Bloomberg event in New Delhi. “Would India be a middle power? It’s not a comfortable description because if you are the most populous country in the world, you have a GDP of $4 trillion, give or take, and you have a lot of growth ahead of you, staring you in the face, then the middle power somehow seems to be limiting itself by that definition,” he added. The EAM further said that middle powers will now define their own interests, formulate independent policies and reach agreements with one another. “This would enable middle powers to play a more active role in shaping the emerging international order,” he said. “The middle powers would now each apply their own mind, stake out their own interests, figure out their own policies, and then reach arrangements with each other,” Jaishankar said. EAM also highlighted the growing importance of economic interdependence and the risks posed by the weaponisation of strategic resources in the changing global order. ‘World of choke points’ Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and financial mechanisms to exert pressure on others. “It’s also today a world of choke points, and you know the tendency to weaponise. We tend to think of rare earths as an example, but the fact is even finance is a choke point. I mean, sanctions are a choke point. I mean, people are weaponising their grip on finance or on the US dollar,” Jaishankar said. He said global competition would increasingly revolve around what different countries could offer and the agreements they could negotiate to advance their respective interests. “The point, I think, is we are moving to a world where the competition is going to be, to some degree, who has what to bring to the table, and then deals among them saying, you know, you do this, I do this. Let’s develop this together. Let’s trade this for each other,” he said in a discussion with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Jaishankar also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically. He added that the current transition should not be seen as a shift from order to disorder but as the evolution of a different kind of order.

Describing the current international environment as a “world of choke points”, EAM S Jaishankar said countries could use their control over critical resources and finances to exert pressure on others. He also cautioned against viewing the ongoing changes in the global order pessimistically.

India not a ‘middle power’ but a power in the middle, says EAM Jaishankar, cites PM Modi’s definition

With the US midterm elections approaching, candidates are talking about inflation, jobs, healthcare, and the cost of living. Immigration remains part of the debate, particularly for Republicans. Yet one policy with direct consequences for Indian professionals and US employers, the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, has received far less attention in the broader campaign conversation.President Donald Trump’s administration has presented the fee as a way to protect American workers from cheaper foreign labour. For Indian professionals, technology companies and families planning careers in the United States, however, it has raised questions about the cost and accessibility of one of the country's main skilled-worker visa routes.<h2>A policy with consequences beyond Silicon Valley</h2>The Trump administration introduced the $100,000 payment requirement in September 2025 for certain new H-1B petitions. It argued that employers had used the programme to replace American workers with lower-paid foreign employees. In September 2026, the White House renewed the measure, extending its intended duration through September 2027.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-how-grocery-bills-cost-of-living-are-turning-the-nov-3-election-into-a-test-of-trump-1791022350055">US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump</a>The fee was a dramatic departure from the previous cost structure. Reuters reported that H-1B-related fees had typically totalled around $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances. The new payment requirement therefore raised concerns about whether some employers would reconsider hiring workers from abroad.India has a particularly large stake in the debate. According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, citing US Citizenship and Immigration Services data, people of Indian origin accounted for 71 per cent of new H-1B petitions in fiscal year 2024. In Carnegie's 2026 Indian American Attitudes Survey, about two-thirds of respondents opposed the $100,000 fee.<h2>Why the issue struggles to break through</h2>The first reason is the campaign's broader economic focus. In an analysis published on October 8, The Washington Post reviewed more than 8,000 advertisements in competitive congressional and gubernatorial races. Nearly three in five mentioned the economy, with affordability, housing, groceries and other costs featuring prominently. Immigration remained a major Republican advertising issue, but it was no longer as prominent as in the 2024 election. Democrats, in comparison, devoted relatively little advertising to immigration.For Republicans, mentioning the issue comes with its own political complication. The fee is part of Trump's effort to restrict what his administration describes as abuse of the H-1B programme. Challenging it could alienate voters who believe foreign workers compete with Americans for jobs. On the other hand, defending it without qualification, meanwhile, risks concerns among technology employers and skilled workers who depend on international recruitment.For Democrats, opposing the fee offers a way to challenge a Trump administration policy and appeal to workers, employers and immigrant communities. But a broad defence of immigration can be politically difficult in an environment where campaigns are concentrating on affordability and where candidates in competitive districts must respond to local concerns.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-mamdani-factor-how-nyc-s-mayor-could-influence-the-november-2026-midterm-elections-1791622472019">US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans</a><h2>Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Latest court order</h2>There is another reason the issue may be difficult to campaign on: the fee's legal status has changed. On September 30, a federal judge in California blocked the requirement in a separate case brought by a coalition of unions, employers and nonprofit organisations. In Global Nurse Force v. Trump, U.S. District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., in the Northern District of California, wrote, “The Agency Policies are VACATED and REMANDED to Agency Defendants. Agency Defendants, and all persons acting under their direction, are enjoined from enforcing or implementing the Agency Policies made pursuant to or in implementation of Proclamation No. 10973 and its extension in Proclamation No. 11069, until notice-and-comment rulemaking under the APA (Administrative Procedure Act) and regulatory flexibility analyses under the RFA have been conducted.”The decision followed an earlier ruling in June by a federal judge in Boston, which was upheld when an appeals court declined to pause it in July. The legal challenges concern the administration's authority and its failure to follow required procedures.<h2>What happens after November?</h2>The November 3 midterms will determine who controls Congress, but the result will not automatically settle the H-1B dispute. The immediate outcome will depend heavily on the courts and on the administration's next legal steps. Three broad possibilities remain.- First, the legal challenge continues. If the court orders remain in force, the administration cannot simply treat the fee as enforceable because it has renewed the proclamation. Further proceedings will determine the limits of its authority and whether the policy can survive judicial review.- Second, Congress takes up the question. Lawmakers could debate legislation governing H-1B fees, employer obligations and protections for American workers.- Third, the dispute moves into a different policy framework. Reuters reported that the Department of Homeland Security had moved in August to adopt a permanent fee of about $103,000. Notably, the agency's proposal could raise separate legal questions from those challenging Trump's original requirement.

The $100,000 H-1B fee has major implications for Indian professionals, but it has yet to become a defining issue in the US midterm campaign. Why are neither Republicans nor Democrats making it a 2026 US Midterm issue?

With the US midterm elections approaching, candidates are talking about inflation, jobs, healthcare, and the cost of living. Immigration remains part of the debate, particularly for Republicans. Yet one policy with direct consequences for Indian professionals and US employers, the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, has received far less attention in the broader campaign conversation. President Donald Trump’s administration has presented the fee as a way to protect American workers from cheaper foreign labour. For Indian professionals, technology companies and families planning careers in the United States, however, it has raised questions about the cost and accessibility of one of the country's main skilled-worker visa routes. A policy with consequences beyond Silicon Valley The Trump administration introduced the $100,000 payment requirement in September 2025 for certain new H-1B petitions. It argued that employers had used the programme to replace American workers with lower-paid foreign employees. In September 2026, the White House renewed the measure, extending its intended duration through September 2027. Also read | US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump The fee was a dramatic departure from the previous cost structure. Reuters reported that H-1B-related fees had typically totalled around $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances. The new payment requirement therefore raised concerns about whether some employers would reconsider hiring workers from abroad. India has a particularly large stake in the debate. According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, citing US Citizenship and Immigration Services data, people of Indian origin accounted for 71 per cent of new H-1B petitions in fiscal year 2024. In Carnegie's 2026 Indian American Attitudes Survey, about two-thirds of respondents opposed the $100,000 fee. Why the issue struggles to break through The first reason is the campaign's broader economic focus. In an analysis published on October 8, The Washington Post reviewed more than 8,000 advertisements in competitive congressional and gubernatorial races. Nearly three in five mentioned the economy, with affordability, housing, groceries and other costs featuring prominently. Immigration remained a major Republican advertising issue, but it was no longer as prominent as in the 2024 election. Democrats, in comparison, devoted relatively little advertising to immigration. For Republicans, mentioning the issue comes with its own political complication. The fee is part of Trump's effort to restrict what his administration describes as abuse of the H-1B programme. Challenging it could alienate voters who believe foreign workers compete with Americans for jobs. On the other hand, defending it without qualification, meanwhile, risks concerns among technology employers and skilled workers who depend on international recruitment. For Democrats, opposing the fee offers a way to challenge a Trump administration policy and appeal to workers, employers and immigrant communities. But a broad defence of immigration can be politically difficult in an environment where campaigns are concentrating on affordability and where candidates in competitive districts must respond to local concerns. Also read | US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Latest court order There is another reason the issue may be difficult to campaign on: the fee's legal status has changed. On September 30, a federal judge in California blocked the requirement in a separate case brought by a coalition of unions, employers and nonprofit organisations. In Global Nurse Force v. Trump, U.S. District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., in the Northern District of California, wrote, “The Agency Policies are VACATED and REMANDED to Agency Defendants. Agency Defendants, and all persons acting under their direction, are enjoined from enforcing or implementing the Agency Policies made pursuant to or in implementation of Proclamation No. 10973 and its extension in Proclamation No. 11069, until notice-and-comment rulemaking under the APA (Administrative Procedure Act) and regulatory flexibility analyses under the RFA have been conducted.” The decision followed an earlier ruling in June by a federal judge in Boston, which was upheld when an appeals court declined to pause it in July. The legal challenges concern the administration's authority and its failure to follow required procedures. What happens after November? The November 3 midterms will determine who controls Congress, but the result will not automatically settle the H-1B dispute. The immediate outcome will depend heavily on the courts and on the administration's next legal steps. Three broad possibilities remain. - First, the legal challenge continues. If the court orders remain in force, the administration cannot simply treat the fee as enforceable because it has renewed the proclamation. Further proceedings will determine the limits of its authority and whether the policy can survive judicial review. - Second, Congress takes up the question. Lawmakers could debate legislation governing H-1B fees, employer obligations and protections for American workers. - Third, the dispute moves into a different policy framework. Reuters reported that the Department of Homeland Security had moved in August to adopt a permanent fee of about $103,000. Notably, the agency's proposal could raise separate legal questions from those challenging Trump's original requirement.

The $100,000 H-1B fee has major implications for Indian professionals, but it has yet to become a defining issue in the US midterm campaign. Why are neither Republicans nor Democrats making it a 2026 US Midterm issue?

Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue

While the US remains the top destination for Indian students wanting to pursue Undergraduate-level courses abroad, there has been a 10 per cent decline in Indian student applications to the country between 2024-26, SAT entrance exam data shows. "Three years ago, about 80 to 85percent of Indian students' SAT scores were heading to the United States. Now in 2026, that 80 to 85percent is closer to 70 to 75 per cent. So within three years, a 10percent drop, which to us is significant," Mr Rushi Sheth, Vice President, College Board, highlighted in a conversation with this author. College Board has been conducting the SAT exam for 100years.When this author asked Rushi about the reasons he assigned for this US-specific decline, he cited "changing geopolitical conditions." Different countries create or remove policies, which send different signals. As a result of this, families take time to reflect and re-assess, adjust accordingly, he reasoned.Interestingly, the 2024-26 period broadly coincides with the ongoing Trump Presidency 2.0. Donald Trump and his officials and supporters have repeatedly made hostile speeches and blatantly racist public remarks against India and its people, while the policies of the Trump administration have further cemented this animosity towards India. It is widely acknowledged that hateful and racist content targeting Indians has been spreading rampantly on controversial US tech mogul Elon Musk's social media platform X(formerly Twitter). Several accounts linked with Elon Musk and Trump's MAGA political movement are known to be creating and spreading such content targeting Indians.Queried if such a decline in Indian student applications to the US was unprecedented, College Board's VP told this author that similar trends were seen during the 2008-10 economic slowdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, both of which were major global disruptions and crises.Asked if he saw this US-aversion among a section of Indian students as a temporary or a long-term trend, Sheth replied that he was not a politician and that he did not have a qualified opinion on future policies or geopolitical conditions. "About one generation ago, I imagine most Indian students thought of the SAT as a one-way ticket to the United States. And today, that is no longer true. The SAT is more of a global passport, and I don't think that will ever reverse," he added.<h2>Amid decline in US applications, where are Indian students heading?</h2>Referring to the 2024-26 period, Rushi mentioned that the number of Indian students taking the SAT had risen during the period. While there has been a drop in applications going to the US, Indian students are applying in larger numbers to Universities in the UK, European Union, Canada, Singapore, among other destinations, he added."The one country that's really surprising us with how fast it's growing is Australia... For Indian student applications, Australia has now replaced Canada as the number two destination after the United States. Within the Group of Eight, which are some of the most selective and highly prestigious universities in Australia, six of eight universities give unconditional offers to students based on their SAT scores. That's among the reasons driving this spike in applications heading for Australia," shared Rushi.Further, he expressed surprise to see Japan as a trending destination among Indian students. He explained that the Japanese government is welcoming talented young men and young women from India to attend university, to learn, to help build jobs that are in high demand and to enter the workforce in Japan. We are seeing more SAT scores heading to Japan than we'd ever seen historically, he said.When asked about the growth of the SAT exam globally, he said that they are seeing huge uptake in China, India, Vietnam, Egypt, and Uzbekistan.<h2>SAT scores are accepted in a few Indian Universities</h2>According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission. "There are now 70 universities in India which are accepting the SAT score. Flame and Ashoka are among the Indian universities accepting SAT scores", Rushi added.Asked specifically if the $111 fee for taking the SAT, plus the associated coaching charges, is affordable for a vast majority of Indian students who wish to apply to Indian universities that accept SAT, Rushi said that SAT has created some partnerships in India to give fee waivers for the SAT registration for students who can demonstrate financial need. "Generally, students who can demonstrate family income of less than 8 lakh rupees are eligible for a reduced fee waiver or a full fee waiver. Students can also access free SAT practice tests online, based on the results of which they can decide their approach towards taking the SAT," he said.Further, he mentioned that SAT has more than 200 Test centres in India presently, compared to barely 50 metrocity-centric centres about two decades ago.&nbsp;<h2>In the era of all-pervasive AI, is SAT using AI to assess students?</h2>According to Vice President Rushi Sheth, College Board, like any company, is experimenting with AI, but SAT still very much has human design at the centre. "Being a multiple-choice test, machines can score a multiple-choice test, not only for our SAT, but just about any assessment company. With AI, we are still looking into what it can do in terms of evaluation or insights. And these are very exciting technologies. There's nothing that we have even come close to perfecting. And so we will not deploy anything to a student unless it has evidence-based research that supports the value. But we do think, hopefully, AI will allow us to deliver more value to students in terms of insights, career readiness mechanisms, or just new and novel ways of testing. So it's early for us, as I imagine it is for most people, but we're excited to experiment," he elaborated.&nbsp;

According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission.

While the US remains the top destination for Indian students wanting to pursue Undergraduate-level courses abroad, there has been a 10 per cent decline in Indian student applications to the country between 2024-26, SAT entrance exam data shows. "Three years ago, about 80 to 85percent of Indian students' SAT scores were heading to the United States. Now in 2026, that 80 to 85percent is closer to 70 to 75 per cent. So within three years, a 10percent drop, which to us is significant," Mr Rushi Sheth, Vice President, College Board, highlighted in a conversation with this author. College Board has been conducting the SAT exam for 100years. When this author asked Rushi about the reasons he assigned for this US-specific decline, he cited "changing geopolitical conditions." Different countries create or remove policies, which send different signals. As a result of this, families take time to reflect and re-assess, adjust accordingly, he reasoned. Interestingly, the 2024-26 period broadly coincides with the ongoing Trump Presidency 2.0. Donald Trump and his officials and supporters have repeatedly made hostile speeches and blatantly racist public remarks against India and its people, while the policies of the Trump administration have further cemented this animosity towards India. It is widely acknowledged that hateful and racist content targeting Indians has been spreading rampantly on controversial US tech mogul Elon Musk's social media platform X(formerly Twitter). Several accounts linked with Elon Musk and Trump's MAGA political movement are known to be creating and spreading such content targeting Indians. Queried if such a decline in Indian student applications to the US was unprecedented, College Board's VP told this author that similar trends were seen during the 2008-10 economic slowdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, both of which were major global disruptions and crises. Asked if he saw this US-aversion among a section of Indian students as a temporary or a long-term trend, Sheth replied that he was not a politician and that he did not have a qualified opinion on future policies or geopolitical conditions. "About one generation ago, I imagine most Indian students thought of the SAT as a one-way ticket to the United States. And today, that is no longer true. The SAT is more of a global passport, and I don't think that will ever reverse," he added. Amid decline in US applications, where are Indian students heading? Referring to the 2024-26 period, Rushi mentioned that the number of Indian students taking the SAT had risen during the period. While there has been a drop in applications going to the US, Indian students are applying in larger numbers to Universities in the UK, European Union, Canada, Singapore, among other destinations, he added. "The one country that's really surprising us with how fast it's growing is Australia... For Indian student applications, Australia has now replaced Canada as the number two destination after the United States. Within the Group of Eight, which are some of the most selective and highly prestigious universities in Australia, six of eight universities give unconditional offers to students based on their SAT scores. That's among the reasons driving this spike in applications heading for Australia," shared Rushi. Further, he expressed surprise to see Japan as a trending destination among Indian students. He explained that the Japanese government is welcoming talented young men and young women from India to attend university, to learn, to help build jobs that are in high demand and to enter the workforce in Japan. We are seeing more SAT scores heading to Japan than we'd ever seen historically, he said. When asked about the growth of the SAT exam globally, he said that they are seeing huge uptake in China, India, Vietnam, Egypt, and Uzbekistan. SAT scores are accepted in a few Indian Universities According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission. "There are now 70 universities in India which are accepting the SAT score. Flame and Ashoka are among the Indian universities accepting SAT scores", Rushi added. Asked specifically if the $111 fee for taking the SAT, plus the associated coaching charges, is affordable for a vast majority of Indian students who wish to apply to Indian universities that accept SAT, Rushi said that SAT has created some partnerships in India to give fee waivers for the SAT registration for students who can demonstrate financial need. "Generally, students who can demonstrate family income of less than 8 lakh rupees are eligible for a reduced fee waiver or a full fee waiver. Students can also access free SAT practice tests online, based on the results of which they can decide their approach towards taking the SAT," he said. Further, he mentioned that SAT has more than 200 Test centres in India presently, compared to barely 50 metrocity-centric centres about two decades ago. In the era of all-pervasive AI, is SAT using AI to assess students? According to Vice President Rushi Sheth, College Board, like any company, is experimenting with AI, but SAT still very much has human design at the centre. "Being a multiple-choice test, machines can score a multiple-choice test, not only for our SAT, but just about any assessment company. With AI, we are still looking into what it can do in terms of evaluation or insights. And these are very exciting technologies. There's nothing that we have even come close to perfecting. And so we will not deploy anything to a student unless it has evidence-based research that supports the value. But we do think, hopefully, AI will allow us to deliver more value to students in terms of insights, career readiness mechanisms, or just new and novel ways of testing. So it's early for us, as I imagine it is for most people, but we're excited to experiment," he elaborated.

According to data from College Board, there has been a rise in the number of Indian students taking the SAT, and a small number of those students are sending their applications to Indian universities that are accepting SAT score-based admission.

Trump's racism? 10% drop in Indian applications to US Universities in 3 yrs

Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year, according to a study by Unicef, ECPAT International and INTERPOL. The findings come as a senior United Nations official warns that artificial intelligence, conflict and climate-related emergencies are exposing children to new and overlapping risks.Najat Maalla M’jid, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Violence Against Children, presented her final report to the UN General Assembly on Monday (Oct 12), urging governments to strengthen protections for children facing multiple crises. “Almost 45 million children are displaced because of conflict, but also because of natural disasters, because of the climate crisis,” she told journalists at UN Headquarters in New York.M’jid also warned that rapid advances in technology, while creating opportunities for learning and communication, were opening new avenues for abuse. She pointed to AI-enabled sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, deepfakes and the recruitment of children into criminal activities.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/imf-world-economic-outlook-10-economies-to-watch-for-growth-in-fy27-and-fy28-where-does-india-stand-1791868386918">IMF World Economic Outlook: 10 economies to watch for growth in FY27 and FY28 - Where does India stand?</a><h2>Most children knew their alleged abusers</h2>The study, Disrupting Harm in Pakistan, published in September 2026, found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 had experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse over 12 months.The reported abuse included unwanted sexual images or conversations, demands for intimate photographs, the non-consensual sharing of children's images, and sexual threats or blackmail.The findings also challenge the assumption that strangers primarily committed online abuse. Shockingly, in 85 per cent of the incidents reported by children, the perpetrator was someone they already knew. Social media was the most commonly reported digital setting, accounting for 44 per cent of cases.Fear and stigma can make it difficult for children to seek help, it noted. Some worry that their families will blame them, humiliate them or impose restrictions on their internet access. Boys may face additional barriers because of social expectations around masculinity and reluctance to discuss sexual abuse.According to UNICEF, more than half of the children who experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse did not tell anyone. None of the children surveyed reported their experiences through formal channels such as helplines, social workers or the police.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatsapp-parental-controls-for-teens-what-parents-can-see-and-change-is-it-available-in-india-and-more-all-you-need-to-know-meta-ai-1790834115201">WhatsApp parental controls for teens: Can parents read messages? What they can see and change. All you need to know</a><h2>Poverty and displacement deepen risks</h2>Online abuse is part of a broader child-protection crisis shaped by poverty, displacement and interruptions to essential services, M’jid warned. Food insecurity and rising prices can leave families struggling to protect children, while conflict and natural disasters can disrupt schooling and weaken support networks.Climate-related emergencies have also caused widespread disruption across South Asia. Unicef estimates that weather-related disasters displaced 15.6 million children in the region between 2016 and 2022. In Bangladesh, climate-related events disrupted schooling for 35 million children in 2024. &nbsp;

Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a year, a study has found. The UN is warning that AI, poverty, conflict and climate emergencies are creating overlapping risks for children.


Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year, according to a study by Unicef, ECPAT International and INTERPOL. The findings come as a senior United Nations official warns that artificial intelligence, conflict and climate-related emergencies are exposing children to new and overlapping risks. Najat Maalla M’jid, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Violence Against Children, presented her final report to the UN General Assembly on Monday (Oct 12), urging governments to strengthen protections for children facing multiple crises. “Almost 45 million children are displaced because of conflict, but also because of natural disasters, because of the climate crisis,” she told journalists at UN Headquarters in New York. M’jid also warned that rapid advances in technology, while creating opportunities for learning and communication, were opening new avenues for abuse. She pointed to AI-enabled sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, deepfakes and the recruitment of children into criminal activities. Also read | IMF World Economic Outlook: 10 economies to watch for growth in FY27 and FY28 - Where does India stand? Most children knew their alleged abusers The study, Disrupting Harm in Pakistan, published in September 2026, found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 had experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse over 12 months. The reported abuse included unwanted sexual images or conversations, demands for intimate photographs, the non-consensual sharing of children's images, and sexual threats or blackmail. The findings also challenge the assumption that strangers primarily committed online abuse. Shockingly, in 85 per cent of the incidents reported by children, the perpetrator was someone they already knew. Social media was the most commonly reported digital setting, accounting for 44 per cent of cases. Fear and stigma can make it difficult for children to seek help, it noted. Some worry that their families will blame them, humiliate them or impose restrictions on their internet access. Boys may face additional barriers because of social expectations around masculinity and reluctance to discuss sexual abuse. According to UNICEF, more than half of the children who experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse did not tell anyone. None of the children surveyed reported their experiences through formal channels such as helplines, social workers or the police. Also read | WhatsApp parental controls for teens: Can parents read messages? What they can see and change. All you need to know Poverty and displacement deepen risks Online abuse is part of a broader child-protection crisis shaped by poverty, displacement and interruptions to essential services, M’jid warned. Food insecurity and rising prices can leave families struggling to protect children, while conflict and natural disasters can disrupt schooling and weaken support networks. Climate-related emergencies have also caused widespread disruption across South Asia. Unicef estimates that weather-related disasters displaced 15.6 million children in the region between 2016 and 2022. In Bangladesh, climate-related events disrupted schooling for 35 million children in 2024.

Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a year, a study has found. The UN is warning that AI, poverty, conflict and climate emergencies are creating overlapping risks for children.

UN study exposes Pakistan's child abuse crisis; 1.5 million children experienced online sexual abuse in a year

New Zealand’s first resident defence advisor in New Delhi has described the rapidly expanding India–New Zealand military relationship as moving beyond novelty, with both sides planning a first bilateral naval exercise next year and deeper involvement in India’s Tarang Shakti air exercise in 2028.&nbsp;Commodore Andy Dowling said the relationship has been revived after New Zealand commanded Combined Task Force 150 and India served as deputy commander. Subsequent high-level visits, including by New Zealand’s prime minister in March last year and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to New Zealand in July, produced a Defence Cooperation Agreement. A strategic dialogue has since produced a joint plan covering the next two to three years.&nbsp;“I’m now here as the first resident, so we are taking this relationship very seriously,” Dowling said. “The aim is to remove the novelty so that we see each other as business-as-usual partners who are happy and comfortable working together.”New Zealand’s participation in the recent Tarang Shakti multinational air exercise, hosted by India, offered a practical test. Dowling praised the Indian Air Force’s organisation of a complex event involving multiple nations and aircraft types, saying it generated genuine training value in a geographical setting unfamiliar to New Zealand crews.&nbsp;“That was good. That was something we want to do,” he said. “When it comes back again in a couple of years’ time, then we’d like to be more involved.” He expressed hope that New Zealand aircraft would take part in a more substantial way in 2028.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-politicians-mistakenly-use-indian-russian-warship-images-for-navy-s-birthday-posts-1791955000426">US politicians mistakenly use Indian, Russian warship images for Navy's birthday posts</a>&nbsp;Maritime cooperation is expected to remain the central pillar. Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces. “We’re both maritime nations by heart; we’re both trading nations. We depend on free and open oceans,” he noted.&nbsp;On defence industry, Dowling highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s production and export base, citing systems such as the BrahMos missile supplied to the Philippines. With the India–New Zealand free-trade agreement entering into force on 20 October, he said the framework would make defence-industry partnerships easier to operationalise. “It offers opportunities for us to partner together and not be transactional,” he said. “The FTA for us will be really good. The trick is now to operationalise it and to use it.”&nbsp;Dowling also pointed to a longer shared military history, from Gallipoli and the two world wars to the wartime service of a New Zealand ship that later became the Indian Navy’s flagship.

Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces.

New Zealand’s first resident defence advisor in New Delhi has described the rapidly expanding India–New Zealand military relationship as moving beyond novelty, with both sides planning a first bilateral naval exercise next year and deeper involvement in India’s Tarang Shakti air exercise in 2028. Commodore Andy Dowling said the relationship has been revived after New Zealand commanded Combined Task Force 150 and India served as deputy commander. Subsequent high-level visits, including by New Zealand’s prime minister in March last year and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to New Zealand in July, produced a Defence Cooperation Agreement. A strategic dialogue has since produced a joint plan covering the next two to three years. “I’m now here as the first resident, so we are taking this relationship very seriously,” Dowling said. “The aim is to remove the novelty so that we see each other as business-as-usual partners who are happy and comfortable working together.” New Zealand’s participation in the recent Tarang Shakti multinational air exercise, hosted by India, offered a practical test. Dowling praised the Indian Air Force’s organisation of a complex event involving multiple nations and aircraft types, saying it generated genuine training value in a geographical setting unfamiliar to New Zealand crews. “That was good. That was something we want to do,” he said. “When it comes back again in a couple of years’ time, then we’d like to be more involved.” He expressed hope that New Zealand aircraft would take part in a more substantial way in 2028. Also read: US politicians mistakenly use Indian, Russian warship images for Navy's birthday posts Maritime cooperation is expected to remain the central pillar. Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces. “We’re both maritime nations by heart; we’re both trading nations. We depend on free and open oceans,” he noted. On defence industry, Dowling highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s production and export base, citing systems such as the BrahMos missile supplied to the Philippines. With the India–New Zealand free-trade agreement entering into force on 20 October, he said the framework would make defence-industry partnerships easier to operationalise. “It offers opportunities for us to partner together and not be transactional,” he said. “The FTA for us will be really good. The trick is now to operationalise it and to use it.” Dowling also pointed to a longer shared military history, from Gallipoli and the two world wars to the wartime service of a New Zealand ship that later became the Indian Navy’s flagship.

Under the maritime cooperation agreement signed in July, the two navies are already discussing the shape of a bilateral exercise next year. Dowling said the aim was not merely to hold an activity for its own sake but to produce relevant training for both forces.

New Zealand aiming to firm up defence ties with India, says Defence Advisor Commodore Andy Dowling

Recent polls suggest that many Americans have doubts about the fairness and integrity of the November 3 midterm elections. A NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll among likely voters from October 5 to 9, pointed to concerns about election administration and vote-counting. &nbsp;Other surveys highlighted concerns about fairness, honesty, and accuracy. A nationwide survey by the University of California, San Diego, found that fewer than half of respondents expected the elections to be free and fair. Here is a roundup<h2>What polls and surveys say about Americans' distrust of their election</h2>In the survey of 5,016 American adults, conducted on September 1 -9 by UC San Diego’s Center for Transparent and Trusted Elections, 49 per cent - &nbsp;or less than half of respondents - expected the elections to be free and fair. Another 23 per cent did not, while 28 per cent said they did not know what to expect. The survey also found that 55 per cent trusted that ballots would be counted accurately. This was down from 77 per cent confidence expressed after the 2024 election and 60 per cent in January 2026.The Pew Research Center’s survey of 3,554 US adults, done on July 6 - 12, found that 55 per cent were confident the midterms would be conducted fairly and accurately. This confidence level was lower than the 61 per cent recorded ahead of the 2024 elections and the 64 per cent before the 2022 midterms.Gallup’s 2026 survey found that 49 per cent of Americans were confident in the honesty of US elections, while 51 per cent were not.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-brings-iran-war-into-us-midterm-election-debate-1791773417784/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-brings-iran-war-into-us-midterm-election-debate-1791773417784/embed</a><h2>Why are voters losing trust in US midterms?</h2>Concerns about mail-in ballots are a key issue in the NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll. While 27 per cent of respondents cited the handling of mail-in ballots as the main concern, 14 per cent believe Republicans would manipulate the count, and 13 per cent think Democrats would do so.Decision Desk HQ chief elections analyst Geoffrey Skelley said Republicans expressed greater doubts, reflecting concerns associated with the 2020 presidential election and President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of electoral fraud. Trump lost that election to Democrat Joe Biden, but till date, he claims he had won.&nbsp;Such claims, amplified by Trump aides and surrogates, shaped debate about election integrity, despite courts and election officials finding no evidence of fraud sufficient to overturn the results.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-democratic-house-india-trump-modi-relations-1791131467809">US midterms: Could a Democratic House be good for India?</a><h2>Both Republicans and Democrats distrust the election</h2>Supporters of both parties have doubts about the election administration, voter access, and the potential politicisation of election oversight.The UC San Diego survey identified artificial intelligence, foreign interference and cyberattacks as sources of anxiety. It also found sharp partisan divisions over mail-in voting, and federal immigration enforcement.&nbsp;At least 36 new voting laws took effect in Republican-controlled states in 2026, including measures tightening identification requirements and restricting aspects of mail voting. While supporters of the measures argue it protects election integrity, critics feel voting would become more difficult for eligible citizens.An Associated Press-NORC survey from September found that trust in federal government information about elections and politics is down from 22 per cent in 2024 to 13 per cent in 2026.&nbsp;These surveys and polls are a reflection of what voters think about the process, transparency, impartiality, and reliability of information from public institutions.

A new survey found that less than half of Americans expect the upcoming 2026 US midterms to be free and fair. Other polls have revealed declining trust in vote counting, mail-in ballots, election security, and government certifications. Can the oldest democracy ‘fix’ its elections?

Recent polls suggest that many Americans have doubts about the fairness and integrity of the November 3 midterm elections. A NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll among likely voters from October 5 to 9, pointed to concerns about election administration and vote-counting. Other surveys highlighted concerns about fairness, honesty, and accuracy. A nationwide survey by the University of California, San Diego, found that fewer than half of respondents expected the elections to be free and fair. Here is a roundup What polls and surveys say about Americans' distrust of their election In the survey of 5,016 American adults, conducted on September 1 -9 by UC San Diego’s Center for Transparent and Trusted Elections, 49 per cent - or less than half of respondents - expected the elections to be free and fair. Another 23 per cent did not, while 28 per cent said they did not know what to expect. The survey also found that 55 per cent trusted that ballots would be counted accurately. This was down from 77 per cent confidence expressed after the 2024 election and 60 per cent in January 2026. The Pew Research Center’s survey of 3,554 US adults, done on July 6 - 12, found that 55 per cent were confident the midterms would be conducted fairly and accurately. This confidence level was lower than the 61 per cent recorded ahead of the 2024 elections and the 64 per cent before the 2022 midterms. Gallup’s 2026 survey found that 49 per cent of Americans were confident in the honesty of US elections, while 51 per cent were not. https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-brings-iran-war-into-us-midterm-election-debate-1791773417784/embed Why are voters losing trust in US midterms? Concerns about mail-in ballots are a key issue in the NewsNation–Decision Desk HQ poll. While 27 per cent of respondents cited the handling of mail-in ballots as the main concern, 14 per cent believe Republicans would manipulate the count, and 13 per cent think Democrats would do so. Decision Desk HQ chief elections analyst Geoffrey Skelley said Republicans expressed greater doubts, reflecting concerns associated with the 2020 presidential election and President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of electoral fraud. Trump lost that election to Democrat Joe Biden, but till date, he claims he had won. Such claims, amplified by Trump aides and surrogates, shaped debate about election integrity, despite courts and election officials finding no evidence of fraud sufficient to overturn the results. Also read: US midterms: Could a Democratic House be good for India? Both Republicans and Democrats distrust the election Supporters of both parties have doubts about the election administration, voter access, and the potential politicisation of election oversight. The UC San Diego survey identified artificial intelligence, foreign interference and cyberattacks as sources of anxiety. It also found sharp partisan divisions over mail-in voting, and federal immigration enforcement. At least 36 new voting laws took effect in Republican-controlled states in 2026, including measures tightening identification requirements and restricting aspects of mail voting. While supporters of the measures argue it protects election integrity, critics feel voting would become more difficult for eligible citizens. An Associated Press-NORC survey from September found that trust in federal government information about elections and politics is down from 22 per cent in 2024 to 13 per cent in 2026. These surveys and polls are a reflection of what voters think about the process, transparency, impartiality, and reliability of information from public institutions.

A new survey found that less than half of Americans expect the upcoming 2026 US midterms to be free and fair. Other polls have revealed declining trust in vote counting, mail-in ballots, election security, and government certifications. Can the oldest democracy ‘fix’ its elections?

US Midterms 2026 in shadow of public distrust: Less than half in a poll believe elections will be free and fair. Other surveys say...

America’s Navy turned 251 on Tuesday (Oct 13), and some US politicians, eager to join the birthday celebrations, committed a big blunder. The wishes were meant for US Navy fleet, but the ships in the posts that several prominent Republican lawmakers and state governors shared were from India and Russia instead. While the US Navy Day is observed annually on October 27, a separate commemoration from the official US Navy Birthday is celebrated on October 13.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-president-zi-blunder-goes-viral-as-trump-campaign-mocked-over-tiktok-typo-during-china-visit-1778892424559">'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo during China visit</a>&nbsp;The incident came to limelight when Dave Brown, a journalist with The Wall Street Journal pointed out on X that Georgia Governor Brian P Kemp, a Republican, had shared Indian warships in his post wishing US Navy. He wrote on X, "From the early days of our nation's founding, the Navy has stood watch over our country and defended freedom across the seas. On its birthday, we salute the sailors whose service, sacrifice, and courage carry that legacy forward." The image shared by Kemp had three warships sailing in line astern, emblazoned with the words "Happy Birthday US Navy" and the seal of the state of Georgia. Brown reshared the post and wrote on X: "Those are Indian warships". The three warships were Indian Navy frigates, INS Godavari, INS Brahmaputra and INS Beas. &nbsp;A Community Note on Kemp's X post also identified the vessels as Kolkata-class guided-missile destroyers.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HUhRB80WYAAVBkc?format=png&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-gaffe-trump-mixes-up-india-and-brazil-in-social-post-attacking-us-voting-speed-1791181445745">Viral gaffe: Trump mixes up India and Brazil in social post attacking us voting speed</a>&nbsp;Jeffrey J Dinise, an official with the US Border Patrol, used an image of a Russian Kirov-class battlecruiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791963309557.png"></figure>&nbsp;US Congressman Tim Moore of North Carolina, meanwhile, used the same image of the three Indian Navy frigates shared by Kemp.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-10/huhaszzwcaavjgq.png?VersionId=01EuFcfUXACQcVG34gY2dY7hwDeQ0s.r"></figure>&nbsp;Ohio State Representative Mike Dovilla, a Republican and, a former US Navy lieutenant commander, was seen wishing the US Navy a happy birthday with an image of warships that Brown identified as belonging to the Russian Navy.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HUhRuVBXsAExefX?format=png&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>&nbsp; Democratic politician and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, whose city is home to one of the US Navy's largest naval bases, used an image of the Soviet-era cruiser Mikhail Kutuzov, which is now a museum ship in Novorossiysk, Russia.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-10/huiqgx3wkaa4tzm.png?VersionId=W6UchGExdkTt_a1o9M0SwpAw8Q2ZDtIa"></figure>&nbsp; Additionally, the social media account of the Freedom Caucus Foundation, a Republican-aligned think tank, also joined in, using an image of the Indian Navy frigate INS Trikand.&nbsp;<img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-10/huiw4ukwmaa8xbi.jpg?VersionId=HltVRzbYqxpASZcouqyy1oUe3beSNq6p&amp;size=750:*"> &nbsp;

American politicians and public figures marked the US Navy's 251st birthday by sharing images of Indian and Russian warships. The posts included Indian Navy frigates and Russian vessels, with a journalist pointing out the errors on social media.

America’s Navy turned 251 on Tuesday (Oct 13), and some US politicians, eager to join the birthday celebrations, committed a big blunder. The wishes were meant for US Navy fleet, but the ships in the posts that several prominent Republican lawmakers and state governors shared were from India and Russia instead. While the US Navy Day is observed annually on October 27, a separate commemoration from the official US Navy Birthday is celebrated on October 13. Also Read: 'President Zi' blunder goes viral as Trump campaign mocked over TikTok typo during China visit The incident came to limelight when Dave Brown, a journalist with The Wall Street Journal pointed out on X that Georgia Governor Brian P Kemp, a Republican, had shared Indian warships in his post wishing US Navy. He wrote on X, "From the early days of our nation's founding, the Navy has stood watch over our country and defended freedom across the seas. On its birthday, we salute the sailors whose service, sacrifice, and courage carry that legacy forward." The image shared by Kemp had three warships sailing in line astern, emblazoned with the words "Happy Birthday US Navy" and the seal of the state of Georgia. Brown reshared the post and wrote on X: "Those are Indian warships". The three warships were Indian Navy frigates, INS Godavari, INS Brahmaputra and INS Beas. A Community Note on Kemp's X post also identified the vessels as Kolkata-class guided-missile destroyers. Also Read: Viral gaffe: Trump mixes up India and Brazil in social post attacking us voting speed Jeffrey J Dinise, an official with the US Border Patrol, used an image of a Russian Kirov-class battlecruiser. US Congressman Tim Moore of North Carolina, meanwhile, used the same image of the three Indian Navy frigates shared by Kemp. Ohio State Representative Mike Dovilla, a Republican and, a former US Navy lieutenant commander, was seen wishing the US Navy a happy birthday with an image of warships that Brown identified as belonging to the Russian Navy. Democratic politician and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, whose city is home to one of the US Navy's largest naval bases, used an image of the Soviet-era cruiser Mikhail Kutuzov, which is now a museum ship in Novorossiysk, Russia. Additionally, the social media account of the Freedom Caucus Foundation, a Republican-aligned think tank, also joined in, using an image of the Indian Navy frigate INS Trikand.

American politicians and public figures marked the US Navy's 251st birthday by sharing images of Indian and Russian warships. The posts included Indian Navy frigates and Russian vessels, with a journalist pointing out the errors on social media.

US politicians mistakenly use Indian, Russian warship images for Navy's birthday posts

Iran is reportedly strengthening its military capabilities and defenses around sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites, anticipating renewed US attacks after the November midterm elections. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Islamic establishment has been telling regional officials that Tehran will retaliate to any new strikes across the Middle East.&nbsp;The WSJ report stated that Iran is preparing to respond with a wider retaliation in response to any fresh US strikes. The US military has continued enforcing a blockade around the Strait of Hormuz. A commercial cargo ship was recently stopped from attempting to run the blockade.<h2>Iran preparing its population for war</h2>The report further claims that the regime is holding rallies to prepare its citizens for war. Paramilitary forces are reading war stories to young children. Training in firing defensive missiles is being advertised. Iran is almost sure of a wider war once the midterm elections in US are over, the report states. US President Donald Trump has said that it would not attack Iran before the midterm election. However, at a campaign rally, he issued a warning, saying, "Wait till you see what we do to Iran."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-strikes-yemen-oil-sites-as-houthi-missiles-target-riyadh-and-aramco-1791927799375">Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco</a>&nbsp;Iran is also trying to keep oil prices high ahead of US midterms. Two senior Iranian officials told Reuters that deploying new tactics to target ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has imposed blockade on the Strait after the US started a war with Iran on February 28.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-claim-riyadh-airport-attacks-aramco-strikes-issue-fresh-warning-to-airlines-travellers-and-workers-1791737446536">Houthis claim Riyadh airport attacks, Aramco strikes; issue fresh warning to airlines, travellers and workers</a>&nbsp;The passage is used to carry approximately 20 million barrels per day of crude oil, condensate, and refined petroleum products. The blockade inflicted a huge blow to these operations, thus decreasing supply and increasing prices.<h2>Riyadh airport attacked</h2> Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels have launched a series of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has been under attack since last week, with energy facilities and airports being struck. Several people died in an attack on the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. A pilot working for Saudi carrier Saudia was among those dead.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-killed-in-attack-on-riyadh-airport-part-of-airport-fell-on-mohammad-yousuf-during-attack-1791789653517/embed&nbsp;The Riyadh airport was shut down and the closure has been extended until Saturday. On Monday, the US Federal Aviation Administration urged airlines to exercise caution when flying above or near Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition launched targeted airstrikes against Houthi-held oil and military sites across Sanaa and western Yemen. &nbsp;

Iran is preparing for a wider war and strengthening its nuclear sites in preparation of possible fresh attack by the United States attacks after the midterm elections. A report said the country is also preparing its population for a war and soldiers are reading war stories to young children.

Iran is reportedly strengthening its military capabilities and defenses around sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites, anticipating renewed US attacks after the November midterm elections. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Islamic establishment has been telling regional officials that Tehran will retaliate to any new strikes across the Middle East. The WSJ report stated that Iran is preparing to respond with a wider retaliation in response to any fresh US strikes. The US military has continued enforcing a blockade around the Strait of Hormuz. A commercial cargo ship was recently stopped from attempting to run the blockade. Iran preparing its population for war The report further claims that the regime is holding rallies to prepare its citizens for war. Paramilitary forces are reading war stories to young children. Training in firing defensive missiles is being advertised. Iran is almost sure of a wider war once the midterm elections in US are over, the report states. US President Donald Trump has said that it would not attack Iran before the midterm election. However, at a campaign rally, he issued a warning, saying, "Wait till you see what we do to Iran." Also Read: Saudi Arabia strikes Yemen oil sites as Houthi missiles target Riyadh; 'limited fire' breaks out at Aramco Iran is also trying to keep oil prices high ahead of US midterms. Two senior Iranian officials told Reuters that deploying new tactics to target ships sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has imposed blockade on the Strait after the US started a war with Iran on February 28. Also Read: Houthis claim Riyadh airport attacks, Aramco strikes; issue fresh warning to airlines, travellers and workers The passage is used to carry approximately 20 million barrels per day of crude oil, condensate, and refined petroleum products. The blockade inflicted a huge blow to these operations, thus decreasing supply and increasing prices. Riyadh airport attacked Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels have launched a series of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has been under attack since last week, with energy facilities and airports being struck. Several people died in an attack on the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. A pilot working for Saudi carrier Saudia was among those dead. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-killed-in-attack-on-riyadh-airport-part-of-airport-fell-on-mohammad-yousuf-during-attack-1791789653517/embed The Riyadh airport was shut down and the closure has been extended until Saturday. On Monday, the US Federal Aviation Administration urged airlines to exercise caution when flying above or near Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition launched targeted airstrikes against Houthi-held oil and military sites across Sanaa and western Yemen.

Iran is preparing for a wider war and strengthening its nuclear sites in preparation of possible fresh attack by the United States attacks after the midterm elections. A report said the country is also preparing its population for a war and soldiers are reading war stories to young children.

Iran bolstering nuclear sites, preparing people for war: Report

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in an alert has warned that North Korean IT workers are expanding their efforts to secure jobs at Western companies by using American intermediaries, stolen identities and increasingly complex recruitment schemes. In an alert issued on Tuesday (Oct 13), the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said North Korean operatives were paying people in the US to help conceal their identities and locations while working remotely for American businesses. The agency said the money generated through these jobs helps fund the North Korean government, including its nuclear weapons and military programmes.The latest warning describes a growing network of facilitators who help applicants get hired, attend interviews, verify identities and keep company-issued laptops connected to the internet from locations in the United States. Some are asked to lend their social media or professional networking accounts, receive work devices at home or complete identity checks on behalf of someone else."These actions are illegal, and participating in them puts individuals at risk of law enforcement scrutiny," it warned.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-hits-bank-of-america-with-over-1-2-billion-in-penalties-over-suspicious-transactions-and-chinese-money-laundering-links-1791946441112">US Treasury hits Bank of America with over $1.2 billion in penalties over suspicious transactions and Chinese money-laundering links</a><h2>Americans facing financial pressure among targets</h2>According to the FBI, North Korean IT workers are increasingly "strategically target(ing) those under financial stress," offering payment in exchange for help with employment-related tasks. <a href="https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2026/PSA261013">FBI alert here</a>.The agency said some use elaborate backstories, fake companies and forged documents to make their requests appear legitimate. In some cases, they claim to be Chinese or other East Asian nationals seeking a temporary presence in the US, or Eastern Europeans displaced by the Russia-Ukraine war.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791968839807.png"></figure>The arrangements can extend well beyond recruitment. The FBI said facilitators are sometimes paid to host laptops in their homes, allowing North Korean workers to access the devices remotely while appearing to work from within the United States. These setups, commonly known as “laptop farms”, have been used for years, but operators are now spreading devices across more locations to reduce the risk of disruption.The agency also reported that North Korean workers are subcontracting some assignments to freelancers, often in countries including India, Pakistan and Nigeria. Other freelancers are hired to submit job applications or attend interviews on their behalf.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-peace-prize-winner-navi-pillay-calls-on-us-to-get-back-to-being-defender-of-human-rights-1791948321793">Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay calls on US to 'get back to' being defender of human rights</a><h2>FBI reports threats and attempts to extort companies</h2>The warning describes a more troubling aspect of the operation: intimidation and extortion.The FBI said it had observed North Korean IT workers threatening former managers and their families after being dismissed, demanding additional payments. Others allegedly threatened to leak sensitive company data, publish proprietary information or damage a business’s reputation unless they received large sums of money.In some cases, US-based facilitators were allegedly sent to companies or the homes of people operating laptop farms to intimidate them.The agency said stolen personal information remains central to the scheme. Operatives use identities belonging to other people to apply for jobs and may obtain access to sensitive personal data through their employment. The FBI also reported cases in which people whose identities had been stolen were contacted and threatened.<h2>Companies urged to strengthen hiring checks</h2>The FBI cautioned employers against relying on a single warning sign to identify fraudulent applicants. Instead, it recommended combining identity checks, access controls and monitoring throughout the recruitment and employment process.Companies were also advised to bring together human resources, IT, security and management teams to identify suspicious patterns. The agency warned that overly broad screening could wrongly exclude legitimate applicants or harm people whose identities have been stolen.

The FBI has warned that North Korean IT workers are using American facilitators, stolen identities and fake job applications to infiltrate US companies. The agency says the schemes are evolving, with some operatives now using threats and extortion to demand payments.


The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in an alert has warned that North Korean IT workers are expanding their efforts to secure jobs at Western companies by using American intermediaries, stolen identities and increasingly complex recruitment schemes. In an alert issued on Tuesday (Oct 13), the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said North Korean operatives were paying people in the US to help conceal their identities and locations while working remotely for American businesses. The agency said the money generated through these jobs helps fund the North Korean government, including its nuclear weapons and military programmes. The latest warning describes a growing network of facilitators who help applicants get hired, attend interviews, verify identities and keep company-issued laptops connected to the internet from locations in the United States. Some are asked to lend their social media or professional networking accounts, receive work devices at home or complete identity checks on behalf of someone else. "These actions are illegal, and participating in them puts individuals at risk of law enforcement scrutiny," it warned. Also read | US Treasury hits Bank of America with over $1.2 billion in penalties over suspicious transactions and Chinese money-laundering links Americans facing financial pressure among targets According to the FBI, North Korean IT workers are increasingly "strategically target(ing) those under financial stress," offering payment in exchange for help with employment-related tasks. FBI alert here. The agency said some use elaborate backstories, fake companies and forged documents to make their requests appear legitimate. In some cases, they claim to be Chinese or other East Asian nationals seeking a temporary presence in the US, or Eastern Europeans displaced by the Russia-Ukraine war. The arrangements can extend well beyond recruitment. The FBI said facilitators are sometimes paid to host laptops in their homes, allowing North Korean workers to access the devices remotely while appearing to work from within the United States. These setups, commonly known as “laptop farms”, have been used for years, but operators are now spreading devices across more locations to reduce the risk of disruption. The agency also reported that North Korean workers are subcontracting some assignments to freelancers, often in countries including India, Pakistan and Nigeria. Other freelancers are hired to submit job applications or attend interviews on their behalf. Also read | Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay calls on US to 'get back to' being defender of human rights FBI reports threats and attempts to extort companies The warning describes a more troubling aspect of the operation: intimidation and extortion. The FBI said it had observed North Korean IT workers threatening former managers and their families after being dismissed, demanding additional payments. Others allegedly threatened to leak sensitive company data, publish proprietary information or damage a business’s reputation unless they received large sums of money. In some cases, US-based facilitators were allegedly sent to companies or the homes of people operating laptop farms to intimidate them. The agency said stolen personal information remains central to the scheme. Operatives use identities belonging to other people to apply for jobs and may obtain access to sensitive personal data through their employment. The FBI also reported cases in which people whose identities had been stolen were contacted and threatened. Companies urged to strengthen hiring checks The FBI cautioned employers against relying on a single warning sign to identify fraudulent applicants. Instead, it recommended combining identity checks, access controls and monitoring throughout the recruitment and employment process. Companies were also advised to bring together human resources, IT, security and management teams to identify suspicious patterns. The agency warned that overly broad screening could wrongly exclude legitimate applicants or harm people whose identities have been stolen.

The FBI has warned that North Korean IT workers are using American facilitators, stolen identities and fake job applications to infiltrate US companies. The agency says the schemes are evolving, with some operatives now using threats and extortion to demand payments.

North Korean IT workers a 'global threat'? FBI warns thousands infiltrating companies, gaining access to sensitive corporate networks

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. In the Middle East, tensions are escalating between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, with reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought Riyadh’s approval for Israel to join the campaign against the Iran-linked group, only for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to reject the proposal.In India, the detention of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka following the Jantar Mantar protest continues to draw attention, with the duo being sent to five-day judicial custody. Meanwhile, an Air India Frankfurt-Delhi flight was diverted to Jaipur after a hijacking alert, with authorities launching a probe into the incident.In the United States, the midterm election campaign is gathering pace as political parties and candidates step up their outreach ahead of the crucial polls. The campaigns are expected to dominate the US political landscape as candidates focus on key issues and seek to consolidate support.Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Restrictions of Starlink internet terminal operations were "depriving" Ukraine of defence against Russia's jet-powered drones, a technology adviser to the Ukrainian president said Wednesday after a night of&nbsp;massive Russian strikes."Through their actions, our partners are depriving us of one of the few chances we have to defend the country against jet-powered Shahed drones," Sergiy Beskrestnov said on Telegram.

Starlink restrictions 'depriving' Ukraine of defence means: Zelensky adviser

NATO chief Mark Rutte on Wednesday urged alliance members to step up support for Ukraine's air defences, as Russia's strikes pound the country."With winter coming and with Russia's aggression unrelenting, allies need to do more, especially in support of air defence," Rutte said at a press conference in Estonia.

NATO countries 'need to do more' to boost Ukraine air defences: Rutte

France's tallest mountain was nearly two metres higher last month than its last reported measurement in 2023, surveyors said Wednesday, putting the Alpine peak at 4,807.47 metres (15,772.5 feet).

Mont Blanc nearly two metres taller than in 2023: French surveyors

The Income Tax Department has notified amendments to the India-Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), introducing a principal purpose test (PPT) that allows tax treaty benefits to be denied if obtaining such benefits was one of the main purposes of a transaction or arrangement. According to the notification, treaty benefits will not be granted if, based on the relevant facts and circumstances, it is reasonable to conclude that obtaining the benefit was one of the principal purposes of an arrangement or transaction, unless granting the benefit is consistent with the objectives of the relevant treaty provisions. The amendment aims to prevent the misuse of tax treaty provisions to avoid or reduce taxes through tax evasion or avoidance.

India notifies amended tax treaty with Mauritius, introduces principal purpose test

Traders across Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) shut down markets in protest against taxation policies and the implementation of the Food Act 2022, accusing the authorities of imposing additional financial burdens on local businesses already struggling with economic pressures. The protest was directed against strict fee structures, mandatory registration requirements and tax enforcement measures introduced under the Food Act 2022. Traders and their representative unions have raised concerns over the government’s policies, arguing that the measures are creating further difficulties for the business community in the region.

Traders shut markets in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan over taxation, food act

The trial opened in Germany on Wednesday of a Ukrainian former military officer over the bombing of the Nord Stream pipelines, an AFP journalist said.Sergiy Kuznietsov, accused of leading a team of Ukrainians that blew up the gas pipelines in 2022, entered the courtroom in Hamburg accompanied by officials and gave his personal details in response to questions from a judge.

Trial begins in Germany of Ukrainian over Nord Stream sabotage

NVIDIA has announced a USD 250 million investment over five years to strengthen artificial intelligence (AI) safety and security research in the United Kingdom, according to a statement by the company. Under the initiative, NVIDIA will provide USD 50 million annually in computing resources to support research on agentic AI safety and security across the UK. Most of the funding will support the wider AI research community, while a portion will be allocated to the British Open-Ended Learning and Discovery Lab (BOLD), the Science of Fundamental AI Research Lab (SOFAIR) and Imperial College London.

NVIDIA to invest USD 250 million in UK AI safety research over five years

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday said the state government has imposed a one-year ban on the sale of gutkha, paan masala and tobacco products, stressing the need to curb addiction and protect the younger generation.Explaining the decision, Dhami said the matter is reviewed every year and the adverse effects of narcotic substances necessitate steps to restrict their use.He said, “This is reviewed every year, and after the review, the conclusion that emerges is that all these things need to be stopped. The adverse effects of narcotic substances are evident to all of us, and there should be a curb on them. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also has a clear goal and resolve to prevent the country's new generation from going astray due to addiction. If the new generation veers in the wrong direction, it will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the nation's future. Uttarakhand is the land of the gods, and we are advancing this effort at every level.”

Uttarakhand bans sale of gutkha, paan masala, tobacco products for one year: Uttarakhand CM Dhami

Iran on Wednesday said it had hanged a man convicted of carrying out "terrorist attacks" in support of Israel, as authorities step up executions linked to the Middle East war.The judiciary said Ali-Sina Mostafavi, "an armed terrorist and agent of the American-Zionist enemy during the war", had been executed, according to a report by state media.It did not disclose the date of his arrest or trial.

Iran executes man accused of attacks in support of Israel

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis said on Wednesday they had targeted facilities belonging to Saudi oil giant Aramco as well as Riyadh airport, as they vowed to conduct more attacks."The Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a high-quality military operation targeting Aramco in Dhahran, in the Eastern Province, King Khalid International Airport, and the Aramco refinery in Riyadh. This was carried out using a large number of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones," military spokesperson Yahya Saree said, adding, "operations toward Saudi depths will continue in the coming days, targeting Saudi enemy airports and oil facilities".

Houthis say they targeted Saudi oil giant Aramco, airport, refinery

Demand for diesel fuel will remain unusually high into 2027 because of reduced supply from Gulf producers stemming from the US war against Iran, the International Energy Agency said Wednesday."The gasoil market balance will remain tight well into 2027 and is dependent on a recovery of product supply from the Middle East," the Paris-based agency said in its monthly energy markets report.

Diesel supplies to remain 'tight' into 2027, warns IEA

Massive students protests have erupted in Albania as hundreds of students took to streets to seek Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation and better education. Riot police was seen on the street using tear gas and water cannons on the protesting students and protesters were seen throwing stones and eggs at the security personnel. AFP reported that the protesting students smashed windows of the education ministry, defaced the property, tore down a fence and set billboards on fire. In a statement, police said that six officers and one female journalist were injured and at least 23 people were arrested. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tear-gas-molotov-cocktails-smashed-windows-violence-erupts-in-albania-as-students-protest-for-better-education-seeks-pm-s-resignation-1791953312357">READ MORE</a>

Tear gas, Molotov cocktails, smashed windows: Violence erupts in Albania as students protest for better education, seeks PM's resignation

Iran is reportedly strengthening its military capabilities and defenses around sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites, anticipating renewed US attacks after the November midterm elections. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Islamic establishment has been telling regional officials that Tehran will retaliate to any new strikes across the Middle East. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-bolstering-nuclear-sites-preparing-people-for-war-report-1791961067159">READ MORE</a>

Some AI researchers are such firm believers in the power of the technology that they have taken up smoking. As bizarre as it might sound, this is a claim made by Palantir chief technology officer Shyam Sankar. He said that "mass psychosis" has gripped the Silicon Valley where companies are racing to create artificial general intelligence, or AGI, a machine as intelligent as, or even more than humans.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/case-of-mass-psychosis-ai-researchers-are-smoking-to-prove-it-can-cure-cancer-1791962968140"> READ MORE</a> &nbsp;

Case of 'mass psychosis': AI researchers are smoking because they are sure AGI can cure cancer

Katie Zacharia, the new White House Press Secretary who replaced Karoline Leavitt, made headlines on Tuesday (Oct 13) as she made her briefing room debut. A conservative commentator and former State Department employee, Zacharia had a disastrous debut that was marked by remarkably few questions from journalists and loads of praise for US President Donald Trump. Notably, the briefing lasted only 14 minutes and included questions from only three conservative outlets before she deferred all questions to Trump himself.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-katie-zacharia-trump-s-new-press-secretary-under-fire-after-china-law-degree-gaffe-past-links-to-maga-inner-circle-emerge-1791963477582"> READ MORE</a>

Trump's new press secretary under fire after China bar exam remark; Polymarket bets on how long Katie Zacharia will last

Talismanic Indian batter Virat Kohli broke the internet with his LinkedIn debut, joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, and Robin Uthappa on the professional networking platform. His move is significant, considering his reach and social media following are among the top five athletes worldwide. Kohli has over 273 million Instagram followers, the third-highest behind Cristiano Ronaldo (680 million) and Lionel Messi (517 million), making him the most-followed Indian on Instagram. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-linkedin-debut-agilitas-one8world-1791965696854">READ MORE</a>

Virat Kohli breaks the internet with LinkedIn debut: ‘Time to build something’

In the first public display of support for the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi slammed the arrest of the group's leaders for protesting at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday morning. The support evoked a prompt thank you message from the CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261014/image-1791966248223.png"></figure>

Rahul Gandhi backs jailed CJP leaders, questions action over hoisting national flag

The house of the man accused of shooting anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota is being demolished in Mansa. Police personnel are present at the spot. The accused was arrested in Churu, Rajasthan, earlier today.

Man accused of shooting anti-drug activist arrested, house demolished 

At least six people have been killed after Russia launched air attacks in Ukraine, causing power cuts in parts of the capital, Kyiv. This comes days after United States President Donald Trump announced an “energy ceasefire” in the more-than-four-year war. The ⁠Russian Defence Ministry stated on Wednesday (October 14) that its forces had carried out a “massive” strike ‌against communications and energy infrastructure facilities ⁠in Ukraine, the Interfax ⁠news ⁠agency reported.

At least six die after Russia launches attack on Ukraine, cuts power in Kyiv

Congress leader Pawan Khera on Wednesday (October 14) said Jantar Mantar “belongs to the people of India”, days after it was de-notified as a protest site. “Jantar Mantar belongs to the people of India. It is not anyone’s private property that they can decide who gets to enter and who must stay away,” Khera said in a post on X.He added, “The RSS-BJP’s project of dividing Indians and turning them against one another has suffered a massive setback. Rahul Gandhi’s unifying call has brought the focus back where it belongs: a united struggle against this Vote Chor regime to save our Constitution, democracy and Republic.”

‘Jantar Mantar belongs to people of India…not private property,’ says Congress leader Pawan Khera

At the ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, "I would like to suggest some practical outcomes from this forum. First, let us develop a joint India-ASEAN research agenda on maritime security, cyber threats, emerging technologies, disaster response, and defence industry cooperation. Second, let us encourage regular exchanges among researchers, including young scholars, through fellowships, visiting programs, and joint publications. Third, let us identify a small number of pilot projects, for example, a tabletop exercise on maritime disaster response, a joint study on counter-drone solutions, or a research project on secure maritime information sharing. Fourth, let us promote Track 1.5 and Track 2 dialogues so that researchers, practitioners, and policymakers can continue their discussions between formal meetings... India seeks an Indo-Pacific where all countries, large and small, can make their own choices, protect their interests, and pursue development in peace... Let this forum help us move from shared understanding to practical cooperation, from discussion to joint research, and from joint research to solutions to improve the security and well-being of our people..."

Rajnath Singh on joint India-ASEAN research agenda

An Air India flight from Frankfurt to Delhi was diverted to Jaipur following a security alert and landed safely at Jaipur International Airport. While preliminary reports suggested a bomb threat, an airport source said that the alert was related to a hijacking rumour.&nbsp;

Frankfurt-Delhi Air India flight diverted to Jaipur after security alert, probe on

A Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) on Wednesday (October 14) sent Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka to five days of judicial custody. Action against them was taken a day after the duo, along with several others from the outfit, breached the de-notified Jantar Mantar protest site.&nbsp;

CJP's Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were sent to 5-day judicial custody

Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry claimed that a strike caused a small fire at an Aramco building in Dhahran with no injuries, following a Houthi warning for civilians to evacuate Saudi oil sites it described as a “legitimate target”.

Houthis hit Aramco hours after Saudi-led coalition strikes Sanaa Oil site

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including India's immediate neighbourhood, major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. In the Middle East, tensions are escalating between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, with reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought Riyadh’s approval for Israel to join the campaign against the Iran-linked group, only for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to reject the proposal. In India, the detention of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka following the Jantar Mantar protest continues to draw attention, with the duo being sent to five-day judicial custody. Meanwhile, an Air India Frankfurt-Delhi flight was diverted to Jaipur after a hijacking alert, with authorities launching a probe into the incident. In the United States, the midterm election campaign is gathering pace as political parties and candidates step up their outreach ahead of the crucial polls. The campaigns are expected to dominate the US political landscape as candidates focus on key issues and seek to consolidate support. Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including India's immediate neighbourhood, major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

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