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India has received no official offer from the United States to purchase F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets, Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said on Saturday (Oct 10). He also said that the government has yet to decide whether to evaluate Russia’s Su-57 fighter aircraft. Singh made the remarks at a press conference in Jodhpur on the sidelines of the concluding ceremony of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti-2026.Sitting alongside the commander of the US Air Force’s Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), the IAF chief responded with a quip when asked about reports of a possible F-35 sale to India.“We didn’t get any official offer,” Singh said. “Your people don’t even let us go near the aircraft, and you are talking about selling it to us.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Your people don't even let us go near the aircraft, and you talk about selling it to us&quot;

IAF chief ACM AP Singh says the US made no offer to sell F-35 jets to India, with the US Pacific Air Forces commander by his side, during #TarangShaktiExercise in Rajasthan https://t.co/b7iKAtQb1h&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2108957549227852019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>No decision yet on Russia’s Su-57</h2>On the Russian fifth-generation fighter, Singh said the offer had come to the IAF’s attention but that no decision had been taken on whether to assess the aircraft.“Regarding the Su-57, we have been informed that they [Russians] have made an offer to us,” he said.“Once the decision is conveyed to us (by the government), we will evaluate how well it (Su-57) meets our requirements,” he added.His remarks leave open the question of whether India will consider either foreign fighter for its future combat fleet. The country is also pursuing the development of its own fifth-generation fighter aircraft as part of efforts to strengthen self-reliance in defence manufacturing.<h2>Tarang Shakti concludes in Jodhpur</h2>The comments came as Tarang Shakti-2026 wrapped up, bringing together the IAF and air forces from eight participating nations, including India.The multinational exercise provided an opportunity for participating forces to improve operational cooperation and exchange professional experience, as India weighs its future combat aircraft requirements.

IAF Chief AP Singh said India has received no official US offer for F-35 jets, while the government is yet to decide on evaluating Russia’s Su-57 fighter aircraft.

India has received no official offer from the United States to purchase F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets, Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said on Saturday (Oct 10). He also said that the government has yet to decide whether to evaluate Russia’s Su-57 fighter aircraft. Singh made the remarks at a press conference in Jodhpur on the sidelines of the concluding ceremony of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti-2026. Sitting alongside the commander of the US Air Force’s Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), the IAF chief responded with a quip when asked about reports of a possible F-35 sale to India. “We didn’t get any official offer,” Singh said. “Your people don’t even let us go near the aircraft, and you are talking about selling it to us.”

IAF Chief AP Singh said India has received no official US offer for F-35 jets, while the government is yet to decide on evaluating Russia’s Su-57 fighter aircraft.

‘Your people don’t even let us near it’: IAF chief’s blunt response on US F-35; India yet to decide on Russia’s Su-57

US President Donald Trump, during a campaign rally in New York on the evening of October 9, said that either Iran “gives us everything, or they don't exist any longer”, as Iranian officials remain insistent there won't be a deal until the U.S. lifts the blockade and delivers sanctions relief. The remark comes amid a seven-month-old war between the US and Iran that has caused profound shocks to the Iranian economy and fueled widespread domestic disapproval over high gas prices and inflation."Iran will be very quick, one way or the other. Either they give us everything, or they don't exist any longer. They know that," said Trump. Trump has been vacillating between threatening to resume heavier military strikes and declaring that the US will not attack Iran prior to the November 3 congressional midterm elections. On Friday, he said he is not ruling out renewed military action against Iran before midterms, and on Thursday he said the United States would not strike Tehran before Americans go to the polls.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-modi-shah-cowards-cjp-protest-crackdown-delhi-1791631967928">Rahul Gandhi calls Modi, Shah ‘cowards’ amid CJP protest crackdown in Delhi</a>Iran's leader claims that Trump is unreliable in negotiations and that the US midterm elections will not fundamentally change Iran's approach. Iran's leadership, Karimi added that “the US, especially in the Trump era, will not be compliant to any deal even if he himself signs it.”Trump was at a rally in Syracuse, New York, for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman on Friday. It was part of a national 32-day campaign blitz intended to boost Republican candidates ahead of the November 3, 2026, midterm elections. Most Americans, 69%, say the war has not been worth fighting, according to a poll published last week by the Associated Press-NORC Centre for Public Affairs Research. That's up slightly from 64% in July. Apart from Blakeman, Trump also campaigned for local congressional candidates, such as Kailee Buller, who is running in New York's 22nd congressional district. During his speech, Trump implored the crowd to “just pretend I'm on the ballot”.

 Donald Trump warns Iran it could cease to exist as Tehran demands a US blockade lift and sanctions relief amid seven-month-old war.

US President Donald Trump, during a campaign rally in New York on the evening of October 9, said that either Iran “gives us everything, or they don't exist any longer”, as Iranian officials remain insistent there won't be a deal until the U.S. lifts the blockade and delivers sanctions relief. The remark comes amid a seven-month-old war between the US and Iran that has caused profound shocks to the Iranian economy and fueled widespread domestic disapproval over high gas prices and inflation. "Iran will be very quick, one way or the other. Either they give us everything, or they don't exist any longer. They know that," said Trump. Trump has been vacillating between threatening to resume heavier military strikes and declaring that the US will not attack Iran prior to the November 3 congressional midterm elections. On Friday, he said he is not ruling out renewed military action against Iran before midterms, and on Thursday he said the United States would not strike Tehran before Americans go to the polls. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi calls Modi, Shah ‘cowards’ amid CJP protest crackdown in Delhi Iran's leader claims that Trump is unreliable in negotiations and that the US midterm elections will not fundamentally change Iran's approach. Iran's leadership, Karimi added that “the US, especially in the Trump era, will not be compliant to any deal even if he himself signs it.” Trump was at a rally in Syracuse, New York, for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman on Friday. It was part of a national 32-day campaign blitz intended to boost Republican candidates ahead of the November 3, 2026, midterm elections. Most Americans, 69%, say the war has not been worth fighting, according to a poll published last week by the Associated Press-NORC Centre for Public Affairs Research. That's up slightly from 64% in July. Apart from Blakeman, Trump also campaigned for local congressional candidates, such as Kailee Buller, who is running in New York's 22nd congressional district. During his speech, Trump implored the crowd to “just pretend I'm on the ballot”.

Donald Trump warns Iran it could cease to exist as Tehran demands a US blockade lift and sanctions relief amid seven-month-old war.

Trump on campaign blitz threatens Iran with destruction if they don't give US 'everything'

Days ago, tech billionaire Elon Musk accused certain business owners, without naming them, of stopping Starlink's entry into India. In a series of posts, he alleged that 'certain oligarchs' were attempting to block the entry of the satellite internet provider into India despite the company's efforts to secure regulatory approvals. A day later, Musk posted again, directly targeting Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani and accusing him of maintaining a monopoly in the country’s internet market. He sarcastically addressed him as 'Prime Minister Ambani' and called 'real boss of India', and questioned whether Ambani would let Starlink compete in the Indian market. The only question is: why is Starlink facing problems getting approval from the government to enter the Indian market?<h3>Why is Elon Musk’s Starlink struggling?</h3>To secure the key licenses for Starlink in India, Musk has been striving hard since 2021. But for final security clearances and spectrum allocation, the company still needs the government's approval to start commercial services, which has moved in staggered stages. To secure the GMPCS licence, the company applied in 2024, but the approval came after two years, in 2026. Others who have received GMPCS licences include Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications Ltd. Jeff Bezos-owned Amazon Leo is also in contention for a licence. However, after clearing the hurdle, the company still needs the approval of law enforcement, satellite spectrum allocation, and ground infrastructure along with earth stations, ahead of becoming fully operational commercially. India's space regulator has also rejected the company's Gen 2 constellation application over features and radio frequencies, as it did not fulfil India's requirements, forcing the company to reapply. In terms of ongoing friction, India has refuted Musk's allegations, underscoring that its satellite communications rules are fair and non-discriminatory. Even the Ministry of Communications stated that three GMPCS licences have been granted under NGSO-based satellite communications, with each licensee required to meet security compliance conditions before proceeding further. Security assessments for all three entities are currently underway, and none has yet moved to the spectrum assignment stage. The ministry clarified that all three licensees remain at broadly the same regulatory stage, dismissing claims of unfairness or discrimination in the framework's application as baseless and misconceived. Meanwhile, SpaceX executive Lauren Dreyer, Starlink's business operations, said that the company spent years working with Indian regulators and had built security controls into its network to meet the country's requirements. She claimed the company developed India-specific security controls and built 20 gateway sites in India after investing in building the infrastructure. Dreyer clarified that Starlink has built its operational facilities specifically for India, keeping the country's security requirements and otherregulations on priority while keeping Indian user data within India.&nbsp;On this, Pranav Koomar, Founder of PlusCash, also told WION, "Starlink has managed to clear some key regulatory barriers in India in terms of licensing, approval in the space sector, tie-ups with Jio and Airtel, and ground infrastructure creation. Nevertheless, getting approvals does not necessarily mean that there will be success from a commercial perspective. The real problem is the economics of the broadband market in India. Starlink's business model implies huge investment in the satellite network and ground infrastructure, which implies a higher cost per subscriber. The model is quite suitable for markets with high prices for broadband and a lack of alternatives to satellite broadband.On the contrary, India has one of the cheapest broadband markets and data prices in the world, with companies like Jio and Airtel enjoying huge economies of scale and low pricing for consumers. Matching those prices while sustaining margins is going to be hard for a satellite service provider. Thus, the issue here is not about getting the approvals and licenses for Starlink. What really matters is whether the company can create unit economics in the highly competitive broadband market."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scam-smuggling-and-wars-why-elon-musk-s-starlink-is-a-help-from-heaven-for-criminals-1791630930507">'Scam, smuggling and wars': Why Elon Musk's Starlink is a 'help from heaven' for criminals</a><h3>What's the real problem?</h3>Security has been a major concern related to Starlink's entry into India. In 2024, Indian officials claimed that they had recovered Starlink equipment during a drug-smuggling probe in the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was also found in an army operation in the northeastern state of Manipur.&nbsp;Its ability to bypass land-based infrastructure has made it a powerful geopolitical tool in conflicts, anti-regime protests, and civil wars. In 2022, when Russia hit the communication network of Ukraine, its internet was completely cut off. Then Ukraine turned to Starlink for internet connectivity. But when Ukraine attempted to strike a Russian ship near Crimea, Musk cut off the internet, and the attack failed. This shows the power of a businessman who weiled at such an extent that it could control things. So it can become a threat to national security and a vulnerability during war. During mass anti-government protests, after the Mahsa Amini protests in 2022 and subsequent demonstrations triggered by a currency collapse, the Iranian government deployed a near-total internet blackout to stop protesters from coordinating or uploading footage. Later, thousands of Starlink terminals were smuggled across the border via underground networks. Then Musk activated the satellite beams over Iran and even pushed a specialised firmware update to help users bypass state signal-jamming equipment. This allowed dissidents to broadcast state crackdowns directly to the outside world, significantly undermining the regime's control over information flow. A similar incident was also witnessed in the Sudanese civil war; Starlink became an accidental lifeline for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group fighting against the internationally recognised Sudanese Armed Forces. In Venezuela, the authoritarian government under Nicolás Maduro has routinely restricted internet access and censored opposition media during periods of high political tension and contested elections. Then activists and opposition leaders have used smuggled Starlink terminals to communicate securely. By bypassing the state-owned telecom provider (CANTV), opposition networks maintained coordination despite government mandates to silence them, altering how political resistance operates in the country. So, with the entry of this tech, states can no longer easily use the "internet kill switch" to suppress domestic unrest. This has caused significant security anxiety globally. The next major issue is pricing, as the company has yet to reveal final prices for India, and questions have remained about affordability, particularly in rural areas. In the US, Starlink's plans start at $55 a month; however, prices and equipment costs vary by plan and location. Currently, Starlink has been licensed in more than 165 countries.

The Ministry of Communications stated that three GMPCS licences have been granted under NGSO-based satellite communications, with each licensee required to meet security compliance conditions before proceeding further. 

Days ago, tech billionaire Elon Musk accused certain business owners, without naming them, of stopping Starlink's entry into India. In a series of posts, he alleged that 'certain oligarchs' were attempting to block the entry of the satellite internet provider into India despite the company's efforts to secure regulatory approvals. A day later, Musk posted again, directly targeting Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani and accusing him of maintaining a monopoly in the country’s internet market. He sarcastically addressed him as 'Prime Minister Ambani' and called 'real boss of India', and questioned whether Ambani would let Starlink compete in the Indian market. The only question is: why is Starlink facing problems getting approval from the government to enter the Indian market? Why is Elon Musk’s Starlink struggling? To secure the key licenses for Starlink in India, Musk has been striving hard since 2021. But for final security clearances and spectrum allocation, the company still needs the government's approval to start commercial services, which has moved in staggered stages. To secure the GMPCS licence, the company applied in 2024, but the approval came after two years, in 2026. Others who have received GMPCS licences include Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications Ltd. Jeff Bezos-owned Amazon Leo is also in contention for a licence. However, after clearing the hurdle, the company still needs the approval of law enforcement, satellite spectrum allocation, and ground infrastructure along with earth stations, ahead of becoming fully operational commercially. India's space regulator has also rejected the company's Gen 2 constellation application over features and radio frequencies, as it did not fulfil India's requirements, forcing the company to reapply. In terms of ongoing friction, India has refuted Musk's allegations, underscoring that its satellite communications rules are fair and non-discriminatory. Even the Ministry of Communications stated that three GMPCS licences have been granted under NGSO-based satellite communications, with each licensee required to meet security compliance conditions before proceeding further. Security assessments for all three entities are currently underway, and none has yet moved to the spectrum assignment stage. The ministry clarified that all three licensees remain at broadly the same regulatory stage, dismissing claims of unfairness or discrimination in the framework's application as baseless and misconceived. Meanwhile, SpaceX executive Lauren Dreyer, Starlink's business operations, said that the company spent years working with Indian regulators and had built security controls into its network to meet the country's requirements. She claimed the company developed India-specific security controls and built 20 gateway sites in India after investing in building the infrastructure. Dreyer clarified that Starlink has built its operational facilities specifically for India, keeping the country's security requirements and otherregulations on priority while keeping Indian user data within India. On this, Pranav Koomar, Founder of PlusCash, also told WION, "Starlink has managed to clear some key regulatory barriers in India in terms of licensing, approval in the space sector, tie-ups with Jio and Airtel, and ground infrastructure creation. Nevertheless, getting approvals does not necessarily mean that there will be success from a commercial perspective. The real problem is the economics of the broadband market in India. Starlink's business model implies huge investment in the satellite network and ground infrastructure, which implies a higher cost per subscriber. The model is quite suitable for markets with high prices for broadband and a lack of alternatives to satellite broadband. On the contrary, India has one of the cheapest broadband markets and data prices in the world, with companies like Jio and Airtel enjoying huge economies of scale and low pricing for consumers. Matching those prices while sustaining margins is going to be hard for a satellite service provider. Thus, the issue here is not about getting the approvals and licenses for Starlink. What really matters is whether the company can create unit economics in the highly competitive broadband market." Also read: 'Scam, smuggling and wars': Why Elon Musk's Starlink is a 'help from heaven' for criminals What's the real problem? Security has been a major concern related to Starlink's entry into India. In 2024, Indian officials claimed that they had recovered Starlink equipment during a drug-smuggling probe in the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was also found in an army operation in the northeastern state of Manipur. Its ability to bypass land-based infrastructure has made it a powerful geopolitical tool in conflicts, anti-regime protests, and civil wars. In 2022, when Russia hit the communication network of Ukraine, its internet was completely cut off. Then Ukraine turned to Starlink for internet connectivity. But when Ukraine attempted to strike a Russian ship near Crimea, Musk cut off the internet, and the attack failed. This shows the power of a businessman who weiled at such an extent that it could control things. So it can become a threat to national security and a vulnerability during war. During mass anti-government protests, after the Mahsa Amini protests in 2022 and subsequent demonstrations triggered by a currency collapse, the Iranian government deployed a near-total internet blackout to stop protesters from coordinating or uploading footage. Later, thousands of Starlink terminals were smuggled across the border via underground networks. Then Musk activated the satellite beams over Iran and even pushed a specialised firmware update to help users bypass state signal-jamming equipment. This allowed dissidents to broadcast state crackdowns directly to the outside world, significantly undermining the regime's control over information flow. A similar incident was also witnessed in the Sudanese civil war; Starlink became an accidental lifeline for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group fighting against the internationally recognised Sudanese Armed Forces. In Venezuela, the authoritarian government under Nicolás Maduro has routinely restricted internet access and censored opposition media during periods of high political tension and contested elections. Then activists and opposition leaders have used smuggled Starlink terminals to communicate securely. By bypassing the state-owned telecom provider (CANTV), opposition networks maintained coordination despite government mandates to silence them, altering how political resistance operates in the country. So, with the entry of this tech, states can no longer easily use the "internet kill switch" to suppress domestic unrest. This has caused significant security anxiety globally. The next major issue is pricing, as the company has yet to reveal final prices for India, and questions have remained about affordability, particularly in rural areas. In the US, Starlink's plans start at $55 a month; however, prices and equipment costs vary by plan and location. Currently, Starlink has been licensed in more than 165 countries.

The Ministry of Communications stated that three GMPCS licences have been granted under NGSO-based satellite communications, with each licensee required to meet security compliance conditions before proceeding further.&nbsp;

Four years, 3 licenses, zero launch: Why is Elon Musk’s Starlink still struggling to crack Indian market? EXPLAINED

Elon Musk sells Starlink as a force for good: internet for the remote, the disconnected, the places no cable will ever reach. Much of that is true. But there is a pattern running alongside it that Musk talks about far less, and it stretches across four continents.&nbsp;From the Amazon to Myanmar to the front lines of Ukraine, the same dish keeps turning up in the hands of people the law is chasing.&nbsp;The Amazon: Internet For Illegal Mines&nbsp;In Brazil, Starlink became a tool of environmental crime.&nbsp;Illegal gold miners operating on protected Yanomami land used Starlink to run their operations deep in the rainforest — coordinating logistics, taking payment, and receiving advance warning of police raids without ever leaving the forest. Brazil's environment agency seized dozens of terminals from illegal mines; miners reportedly painted the antennas black to hide them and favoured them because they were light enough to grab and run. The problem grew severe enough that in 2025 Brazil's federal prosecutors forced Starlink into an agreement to demand identification from users in the Amazon and share geolocation data with authorities.&nbsp;Myanmar: The Scam Cities Run On It&nbsp;In Southeast Asia, Starlink became the lifeline of an industry built on fraud.&nbsp;The vast scam compounds of Myanmar, cities like the notorious KK Park, where trafficked workers are forced to run online fraud against victims worldwide, increasingly rely on Starlink to stay online, especially after neighbouring Thailand cut cross-border power and internet to choke them. Analysts note these operations need little more than a building, captive workers, guards and reliable connectivity, and Starlink supplies the last piece. The scale drew in US lawmakers and the United Nations; regional scam operations defrauded people of tens of billions of dollars in a single year. SpaceX has said it disabled roughly 2,500 terminals powering the compounds.&nbsp;Ukraine: Smuggled To The Enemy&nbsp;On the battlefield, Starlink ended up serving the army it was meant to help defeat.&nbsp;Russian forces obtained Starlink terminals through black-market smuggling, ordered via intermediaries and moved into occupied territory and deployed them on the front line and even mounted on attack drones. A Wall Street Journal investigation described middlemen funnelling terminals to US adversaries around the world. SpaceX says it never sold to Russia and has worked with Ukraine on a verification 'whitelist' to shut unauthorised terminals down, but the smuggling exposed how easily the hardware crosses into the wrong hands.&nbsp;India: Smugglers And Insurgents&nbsp;India has its own entries in this ledger, and they are central to why it is cautious.&nbsp;Even before any commercial launch, Starlink terminals have been recovered in a major drug seizure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and in an army operation against insurgents in Manipur. For smugglers and militants, a connection the Indian state cannot see, trace or switch off is precisely the appeal. These cases are not a footnote to India's security review of Starlink; they are a large part of the reason for it.&nbsp;The Common Thread&nbsp;The point is not that SpaceX arms criminals. It does not, and in each case the terminals were smuggled, diverted or bought on the black market rather than sold for the purpose.&nbsp;The point is structural. The very features that make Starlink revolutionary, portable, decentralised, independent of any national network and reachable from anywhere under open sky, are exactly the features that make it irresistible to anyone who needs to operate beyond a government's reach. A gold miner evading Brazil's forest wardens, a scam boss dodging Myanmar's blackout, a Russian unit beating Ukrainian jamming, and an insurgent in Manipur all want the same thing: connectivity the local state cannot control. Starlink, by design, provides it.&nbsp;That is the uncomfortable truth beneath the 'connecting the world' slogan. A network that answers to no local authority connects the lawless as readily as the law-abiding.&nbsp;What SpaceX Says, And What It Shows&nbsp;In fairness, SpaceX is not indifferent. It bans fraudulent and illegal use in its terms, says it is not licensed in markets like Myanmar where the misuse occurs, and has disabled thousands of unauthorised terminals when pressed. Brazil's deal shows the company can be made to add identity checks and share location data when a government insists.&nbsp;But that is the revealing part. SpaceX can control who uses its network and where, it simply tends to do so after a government forces the issue, country by country, scandal by scandal. Which is the strongest possible argument for the demand India and others are making: build that control in first, on our terms, before launch, not after the terminals turn up in a raid.&nbsp;What To Watch&nbsp;Whether Starlink's Brazil-style identity and geolocation controls are extended proactively to other markets. Whether the Myanmar and smuggling cases push more governments to demand in-country control as a condition of entry. And whether SpaceX treats the outlaw pattern as a problem to design against from the start, or keeps addressing it one embarrassment at a time.

Illegal gold miners in the Amazon, scam syndicates in Myanmar, insurgents in India and Russian troops in Ukraine all use Starlink. The satellite network keeps ending up with criminals — for the same reason governments fear it.

Elon Musk sells Starlink as a force for good: internet for the remote, the disconnected, the places no cable will ever reach. Much of that is true. But there is a pattern running alongside it that Musk talks about far less, and it stretches across four continents. From the Amazon to Myanmar to the front lines of Ukraine, the same dish keeps turning up in the hands of people the law is chasing. The Amazon: Internet For Illegal Mines In Brazil, Starlink became a tool of environmental crime. Illegal gold miners operating on protected Yanomami land used Starlink to run their operations deep in the rainforest — coordinating logistics, taking payment, and receiving advance warning of police raids without ever leaving the forest. Brazil's environment agency seized dozens of terminals from illegal mines; miners reportedly painted the antennas black to hide them and favoured them because they were light enough to grab and run. The problem grew severe enough that in 2025 Brazil's federal prosecutors forced Starlink into an agreement to demand identification from users in the Amazon and share geolocation data with authorities. Myanmar: The Scam Cities Run On It In Southeast Asia, Starlink became the lifeline of an industry built on fraud. The vast scam compounds of Myanmar, cities like the notorious KK Park, where trafficked workers are forced to run online fraud against victims worldwide, increasingly rely on Starlink to stay online, especially after neighbouring Thailand cut cross-border power and internet to choke them. Analysts note these operations need little more than a building, captive workers, guards and reliable connectivity, and Starlink supplies the last piece. The scale drew in US lawmakers and the United Nations; regional scam operations defrauded people of tens of billions of dollars in a single year. SpaceX has said it disabled roughly 2,500 terminals powering the compounds. Ukraine: Smuggled To The Enemy On the battlefield, Starlink ended up serving the army it was meant to help defeat. Russian forces obtained Starlink terminals through black-market smuggling, ordered via intermediaries and moved into occupied territory and deployed them on the front line and even mounted on attack drones. A Wall Street Journal investigation described middlemen funnelling terminals to US adversaries around the world. SpaceX says it never sold to Russia and has worked with Ukraine on a verification 'whitelist' to shut unauthorised terminals down, but the smuggling exposed how easily the hardware crosses into the wrong hands. India: Smugglers And Insurgents India has its own entries in this ledger, and they are central to why it is cautious. Even before any commercial launch, Starlink terminals have been recovered in a major drug seizure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and in an army operation against insurgents in Manipur. For smugglers and militants, a connection the Indian state cannot see, trace or switch off is precisely the appeal. These cases are not a footnote to India's security review of Starlink; they are a large part of the reason for it. The Common Thread The point is not that SpaceX arms criminals. It does not, and in each case the terminals were smuggled, diverted or bought on the black market rather than sold for the purpose. The point is structural. The very features that make Starlink revolutionary, portable, decentralised, independent of any national network and reachable from anywhere under open sky, are exactly the features that make it irresistible to anyone who needs to operate beyond a government's reach. A gold miner evading Brazil's forest wardens, a scam boss dodging Myanmar's blackout, a Russian unit beating Ukrainian jamming, and an insurgent in Manipur all want the same thing: connectivity the local state cannot control. Starlink, by design, provides it. That is the uncomfortable truth beneath the 'connecting the world' slogan. A network that answers to no local authority connects the lawless as readily as the law-abiding. What SpaceX Says, And What It Shows In fairness, SpaceX is not indifferent. It bans fraudulent and illegal use in its terms, says it is not licensed in markets like Myanmar where the misuse occurs, and has disabled thousands of unauthorised terminals when pressed. Brazil's deal shows the company can be made to add identity checks and share location data when a government insists. But that is the revealing part. SpaceX can control who uses its network and where, it simply tends to do so after a government forces the issue, country by country, scandal by scandal. Which is the strongest possible argument for the demand India and others are making: build that control in first, on our terms, before launch, not after the terminals turn up in a raid. What To Watch Whether Starlink's Brazil-style identity and geolocation controls are extended proactively to other markets. Whether the Myanmar and smuggling cases push more governments to demand in-country control as a condition of entry. And whether SpaceX treats the outlaw pattern as a problem to design against from the start, or keeps addressing it one embarrassment at a time.

Illegal gold miners in the Amazon, scam syndicates in Myanmar, insurgents in India and Russian troops in Ukraine have one tool in common: Elon Musk's Starlink. Across four continents, the satellite internet designed to connect the unconnected keeps turning up in the hands of criminals and armed groups, for the same reason governments like India fear it. It answers to no one on the ground.

'Scam, smuggling and wars': Why Elon Musk's Starlink is a 'help from heaven' for criminals

Yemeni government forces are advancing against the Houthis around the Bab al-Mandab strait but have not yet taken control of the waterway, military sources told news agency AFP on Saturday (Oct 10). The Saudi-backed government announced a counter-offensive last week aimed at retaking all Houthi-held areas. The group had seized Yemen's entire western coastline in a lightning offensive. The sources said Mayun Island, in the heart of the strait, remains in Houthi hands as fighting continues.&nbsp;The Houthis confirmed that government forces attacked in the Bab al-Mandab area but said they had repelled the assault. Military spokesman Yahya Saree said on Telegram that the group had driven back "Saudi-aligned troop concentrations" advancing from the direction of Lahj towards the strait.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthis-continue-direct-hits-on-saudi-targets-turkiye-pakistan-missing-in-action-1791566451901/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthis-continue-direct-hits-on-saudi-targets-turkiye-pakistan-missing-in-action-1791566451901/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Military sources from both sides told AFP that clashes in western Yemen, particularly around the strait, had killed at least 63 people in the past 24 hours. They said 35 government troops and 28 Houthis had died. AFP noted that the claims of the warring parties could not be independently verified, as the situation is moving fast and journalists have difficulty gaining access.&nbsp;On Friday (Oct 9), a Yemeni military source within the government confirmed to AFP that forces had launched a "major operation" in the strait region with air support from Saudi Arabia, which backs the government. Riyadh leads an international military coalition helping the government fight the Houthis. Early on Saturday (Oct 10), the coalition said it had destroyed more than 130 Houthi targets in a "large-scale operation". The Houthis' Al-Masirah TV reported that Saudi strikes had hit the Bab al-Mandab area.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/houthis-continue-direct-hits-on-saudi-targets-t-rkiye-and-pakistan-missing-in-action-gravitas-1791569547059">Houthis continue direct hits on Saudi targets, Türkiye and Pakistan missing in action | Gravitas</a>&nbsp;Yemen's civil war reignited in July after four years of relative calm, before the Houthi gains along the western coastline. The Houthis are also firing drones and missiles at targets inside Saudi Arabia, including transport hubs, oil facilities and other civilian sites. Riyadh said on Friday (Oct 9) that attacks the previous day on the Saudi capital's international airport had killed three people. Saudi Arabia has retaliated with strikes on key Houthi targets inside Yemen. Houthi media reported on Friday that two people died in attacks on the airport in the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa.&nbsp;Civilians are bearing the brunt of the renewed fighting in one of the world's poorest countries. According to UN data, more than 200,000 people have been displaced since July.

Yemeni government forces have launched a major counteroffensive against Houthi rebels, capturing key coastal territory and advancing to secure the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Red Sea shipping routes.

Yemeni government forces are advancing against the Houthis around the Bab al-Mandab strait but have not yet taken control of the waterway, military sources told news agency AFP on Saturday (Oct 10). The Saudi-backed government announced a counter-offensive last week aimed at retaking all Houthi-held areas. The group had seized Yemen's entire western coastline in a lightning offensive. The sources said Mayun Island, in the heart of the strait, remains in Houthi hands as fighting continues. The Houthis confirmed that government forces attacked in the Bab al-Mandab area but said they had repelled the assault. Military spokesman Yahya Saree said on Telegram that the group had driven back "Saudi-aligned troop concentrations" advancing from the direction of Lahj towards the strait. https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthis-continue-direct-hits-on-saudi-targets-turkiye-pakistan-missing-in-action-1791566451901/embed Military sources from both sides told AFP that clashes in western Yemen, particularly around the strait, had killed at least 63 people in the past 24 hours. They said 35 government troops and 28 Houthis had died. AFP noted that the claims of the warring parties could not be independently verified, as the situation is moving fast and journalists have difficulty gaining access. On Friday (Oct 9), a Yemeni military source within the government confirmed to AFP that forces had launched a "major operation" in the strait region with air support from Saudi Arabia, which backs the government. Riyadh leads an international military coalition helping the government fight the Houthis. Early on Saturday (Oct 10), the coalition said it had destroyed more than 130 Houthi targets in a "large-scale operation". The Houthis' Al-Masirah TV reported that Saudi strikes had hit the Bab al-Mandab area. Also read: Houthis continue direct hits on Saudi targets, Türkiye and Pakistan missing in action | Gravitas Yemen's civil war reignited in July after four years of relative calm, before the Houthi gains along the western coastline. The Houthis are also firing drones and missiles at targets inside Saudi Arabia, including transport hubs, oil facilities and other civilian sites. Riyadh said on Friday (Oct 9) that attacks the previous day on the Saudi capital's international airport had killed three people. Saudi Arabia has retaliated with strikes on key Houthi targets inside Yemen. Houthi media reported on Friday that two people died in attacks on the airport in the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa. Civilians are bearing the brunt of the renewed fighting in one of the world's poorest countries. According to UN data, more than 200,000 people have been displaced since July.

Yemeni government forces have launched a major counteroffensive against Houthi rebels, capturing key coastal territory and advancing to secure the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Red Sea shipping routes.

Yemeni government forces advance against Houthis to secure strategic Red Sea waterway

US Vice President JD Vance has yet to say whether he will run for the White House in 2028, but a campaign event for Republican midterm candidates in Ohio on Friday (Oct 9) had the feel of a Vance rally. The US VP stepped off Air Force Two and was met with a rapturous reception at an event in a flag-draped airport hangar in Lima. "Man, it feels good to be home," he told the crowd. Unusually for him on the campaign trail, he then went down to greet supporters, including a woman wearing a "Vance 2028" cap.&nbsp;The midterms themselves, on November 3, present a problem. Polls show that President Donald Trump's unpopularity, the Iran war and the cost of living could cost Republicans their majority in Congress. Ohio, which voted for Trump in the last three presidential elections, has become one of the tightest battlegrounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-row-erupts-jd-vance-calls-indian-tech-workers-snakes-semi-slaves-1791565541774/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-row-erupts-jd-vance-calls-indian-tech-workers-snakes-semi-slaves-1791565541774/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;There are close races for Vance's former Senate seat, now held by Jon Husted, and for governor, where former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is running. Vance's visit came days after Trump travelled to the state, and the 80-year-old president is due back next week.&nbsp;Losing Congress could leave Trump facing multiple Democrat-led investigations in his final two years in office. For Vance, losing Ohio could damage a political brand built largely on the blue-collar roots described in his bestselling memoir "Hillbilly Elegy".&nbsp;Asked how important winning Ohio was to his presidential ambitions, Vance told reporters it had "nothing to do with 2028" and was about how the country is governed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-not-going-to-be-watching-it-jd-vance-on-livestream-of-nidal-hasan-s-firing-squad-execution-1791599580452">'I am not going to be watching it': JD Vance on livestream of Nidal Hasan's firing squad execution</a>&nbsp;The 2028 race will effectively begin the day after the midterms. Vance is widely seen as the frontrunner to succeed Trump, but nothing is settled. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said he will not run against Vance, though his speech on Western civilisation at the Acropolis in Athens was widely read as a pitch for the job.&nbsp;Vance is increasingly bringing his family on the campaign trail. His wife, Usha, three of their four children, and their dog Atlas, flew with him to Cincinnati, where he cast an early vote. He also raises money as finance chair of the Republican National Committee, which puts him at the centre of a network of wealthy donors.&nbsp;News agency AFP reported that Vance is trying to avoid being tied to the outgoing president's policies, a problem Kamala Harris faced in 2024. His speeches have shown more awareness of families' financial strain even as Trump dismisses the "affordability hoax". Vance once compared Trump to Hitler before becoming his running mate.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/deeply-offensive-india-hits-back-at-us-vice-president-jd-vance-for-indentured-labour-remark-1791529828211">'Deeply offensive': India hits back at US Vice-President JD Vance for 'indentured labour' remark</a>&nbsp;On Friday (Oct 9), Vance also distanced himself from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the announcement that a US military firing squad execution would be livestreamed. "I don't know that that's going to happen," he told an AFP reporter, adding that he would not watch.

As US Vice President JD Vance campaigns in his home state of Ohio, growing 2028 presidential buzz collides with tough midterm election prospects for Republicans facing tight Congressional races and economic headwinds.

US Vice President JD Vance has yet to say whether he will run for the White House in 2028, but a campaign event for Republican midterm candidates in Ohio on Friday (Oct 9) had the feel of a Vance rally. The US VP stepped off Air Force Two and was met with a rapturous reception at an event in a flag-draped airport hangar in Lima. "Man, it feels good to be home," he told the crowd. Unusually for him on the campaign trail, he then went down to greet supporters, including a woman wearing a "Vance 2028" cap. The midterms themselves, on November 3, present a problem. Polls show that President Donald Trump's unpopularity, the Iran war and the cost of living could cost Republicans their majority in Congress. Ohio, which voted for Trump in the last three presidential elections, has become one of the tightest battlegrounds. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-row-erupts-jd-vance-calls-indian-tech-workers-snakes-semi-slaves-1791565541774/embed There are close races for Vance's former Senate seat, now held by Jon Husted, and for governor, where former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is running. Vance's visit came days after Trump travelled to the state, and the 80-year-old president is due back next week. Losing Congress could leave Trump facing multiple Democrat-led investigations in his final two years in office. For Vance, losing Ohio could damage a political brand built largely on the blue-collar roots described in his bestselling memoir "Hillbilly Elegy". Asked how important winning Ohio was to his presidential ambitions, Vance told reporters it had "nothing to do with 2028" and was about how the country is governed. Also read: 'I am not going to be watching it': JD Vance on livestream of Nidal Hasan's firing squad execution The 2028 race will effectively begin the day after the midterms. Vance is widely seen as the frontrunner to succeed Trump, but nothing is settled. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said he will not run against Vance, though his speech on Western civilisation at the Acropolis in Athens was widely read as a pitch for the job. Vance is increasingly bringing his family on the campaign trail. His wife, Usha, three of their four children, and their dog Atlas, flew with him to Cincinnati, where he cast an early vote. He also raises money as finance chair of the Republican National Committee, which puts him at the centre of a network of wealthy donors. News agency AFP reported that Vance is trying to avoid being tied to the outgoing president's policies, a problem Kamala Harris faced in 2024. His speeches have shown more awareness of families' financial strain even as Trump dismisses the "affordability hoax". Vance once compared Trump to Hitler before becoming his running mate. Also read: 'Deeply offensive': India hits back at US Vice-President JD Vance for 'indentured labour' remark On Friday (Oct 9), Vance also distanced himself from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the announcement that a US military firing squad execution would be livestreamed. "I don't know that that's going to happen," he told an AFP reporter, adding that he would not watch.

As US Vice President JD Vance campaigns in his home state of Ohio, growing 2028 presidential buzz collides with tough midterm election prospects for Republicans facing tight Congressional races and economic headwinds.

Vance 2028 buzz grows, but looming US midterm battles could sting republican ambitions

An Iranian protester facing four death sentences was executed by hanging on Monday (Oct 5), hours after marrying a fiancée, a fellow prisoner in a ceremony held while the two were in separate cells in Isfahan, a rights lawyer told news outlet The Times. Alireza Sepahi, 25, and Mahshad Keshani, 22, a student activist serving five years in prison, knew each other before their arrests. As fears grew last Sunday (Oct 4) that Sepahi could be executed within hours, they asked Tehran-based rights lawyer Amirsalar Davoudi to marry them. Their fathers listened by phone as he read the vows. The symbolic dowry was a Quran, a stick of saffron rock candy and a red rose. The ceremony lasted about nine minutes.&nbsp;Davoudi said the idea was Keshani's. He first thought she was acting impulsively, he said, but she told him she loved Sepahi.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ll-be-hitting-them-hard-trump-s-expletive-laden-warning-to-iran-after-missile-attack-on-us-bases-in-jordan-1785335199804">'We’ll be hitting them hard': Trump's expletive-laden warning to Iran after missile attack on US bases in Jordan</a>&nbsp;Sepahi wept and signed the consent document once he realised the proposal was genuine, Davoudi said. Keshani's father, whose daughter is an only child, also consented. The families knew each other through a community formed among protesters and their relatives after the January crackdown.&nbsp;Davoudi hoped the wedding would draw international attention and halt the execution, but it carried no power to overturn the sentences.&nbsp;Sepahi was convicted in the "Alikhani Square" trial, in which more than a dozen young men were accused of involvement in the deaths of security officers in Isfahan. Authorities say the defendants were responsible for the deaths of four officers during unrest on January 8.&nbsp;Sepahi was arrested at his family home on January 10. A former cellmate said he was hit by shotgun pellets during the raid and then interrogated and tortured for 26 days at an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps detention centre. Civil society activist Mehdi Mahmoudian alleged that defendants were tortured and threatened with sexual violence to make them implicate one another.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-executes-18-year-old-musician-for-war-against-god-four-more-moved-to-solitary-confinement-1775205610158">Iran executes 18-year-old musician for waging 'war against God', four more moved to solitary confinement</a>&nbsp;Davoudi said 15 masked IRGC interrogators attended the trial and that no evidence was presented beyond confessions the defendants said were extracted under torture. He said Sepahi denied being present when the officers were killed and that the court declined to examine footage that could have established his location.&nbsp;Sepahi had previously been prepared for a public hanging on July 28. His cousin and another defendant were hanged that day. Davoudi said Sepahi suffered a heart attack shortly before his scheduled execution and remained unconscious in hospital for several days.&nbsp;Keshani was first detained in July 2023 and arrested again during the January protests. She was sentenced to five years on charges including "propaganda against the system". Her sentence was upheld on appeal, and she is held in Dolatabad prison.&nbsp;Rights groups said Sepahi was the sixth defendant in the case to be executed. Iran Human Rights says at least 32 protesters have been executed in connection with the January protests since March 19.&nbsp;Davoudi rejected the term "execution", calling the cases "state killings based on confessions extracted under torture".

An Iranian protester, Alireza Sepahi, married his jailed fiancée via a phone call from separate Isfahan prisons just hours before he was executed, shedding light on Iran's severe crackdown on dissent. 

An Iranian protester facing four death sentences was executed by hanging on Monday (Oct 5), hours after marrying a fiancée, a fellow prisoner in a ceremony held while the two were in separate cells in Isfahan, a rights lawyer told news outlet The Times. Alireza Sepahi, 25, and Mahshad Keshani, 22, a student activist serving five years in prison, knew each other before their arrests. As fears grew last Sunday (Oct 4) that Sepahi could be executed within hours, they asked Tehran-based rights lawyer Amirsalar Davoudi to marry them. Their fathers listened by phone as he read the vows. The symbolic dowry was a Quran, a stick of saffron rock candy and a red rose. The ceremony lasted about nine minutes. Davoudi said the idea was Keshani's. He first thought she was acting impulsively, he said, but she told him she loved Sepahi. Also read: 'We’ll be hitting them hard': Trump's expletive-laden warning to Iran after missile attack on US bases in Jordan Sepahi wept and signed the consent document once he realised the proposal was genuine, Davoudi said. Keshani's father, whose daughter is an only child, also consented. The families knew each other through a community formed among protesters and their relatives after the January crackdown. Davoudi hoped the wedding would draw international attention and halt the execution, but it carried no power to overturn the sentences. Sepahi was convicted in the "Alikhani Square" trial, in which more than a dozen young men were accused of involvement in the deaths of security officers in Isfahan. Authorities say the defendants were responsible for the deaths of four officers during unrest on January 8. Sepahi was arrested at his family home on January 10. A former cellmate said he was hit by shotgun pellets during the raid and then interrogated and tortured for 26 days at an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps detention centre. Civil society activist Mehdi Mahmoudian alleged that defendants were tortured and threatened with sexual violence to make them implicate one another. Also read: Iran executes 18-year-old musician for waging 'war against God', four more moved to solitary confinement Davoudi said 15 masked IRGC interrogators attended the trial and that no evidence was presented beyond confessions the defendants said were extracted under torture. He said Sepahi denied being present when the officers were killed and that the court declined to examine footage that could have established his location. Sepahi had previously been prepared for a public hanging on July 28. His cousin and another defendant were hanged that day. Davoudi said Sepahi suffered a heart attack shortly before his scheduled execution and remained unconscious in hospital for several days. Keshani was first detained in July 2023 and arrested again during the January protests. She was sentenced to five years on charges including "propaganda against the system". Her sentence was upheld on appeal, and she is held in Dolatabad prison. Rights groups said Sepahi was the sixth defendant in the case to be executed. Iran Human Rights says at least 32 protesters have been executed in connection with the January protests since March 19. Davoudi rejected the term "execution", calling the cases "state killings based on confessions extracted under torture".

An Iranian protester, Alireza Sepahi, married his jailed fiancée via a phone call from separate Isfahan prisons just hours before he was executed, shedding light on Iran's severe crackdown on dissent.

Tragic last vows: Iranian protesters marry in jail via phone call hours before groom’s execution

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has emerged as an unexpected force in the November 3 US midterm elections. The 34-year-old democratic socialist has already demonstrated that his influence can extend beyond City Hall. In June, three candidates he backed in New York Democratic congressional primaries defeated establishment-supported rivals, including two sitting lawmakers. The results strengthened Mamdani's position within the party and raised questions about whether his brand of politics could reshape Democratic campaigns elsewhere.But the Mamdani factor cuts both ways. Progressive activists see his appeal as evidence that Democrats can mobilise voters around affordability and a break with established political leadership. Republicans, meanwhile, have sought to make him a symbol of what they describe as the Democratic Party's shift to the left. Recent controversy over his comments on the October 7 anniversary has also exposed the political risks of his positions on Israel and Gaza.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-gerrymandering-these-new-us-maps-could-hand-republicans-or-democrats-the-house-decide-the-2026-midterms-1791367566921">What is Gerrymandering? These new US maps could decide the 2026 US midterms</a><h2>Mamdani's primary victories put him on the national stage</h2>Mamdani's clearest demonstration of political muscle came in New York's June congressional primaries. He backed former city comptroller Brad Lander against Representative Dan Goldman, democratic socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier against Representative Adriano Espaillat, and state Assembly member Claire Valdez in the race for the seat being vacated by Representative Nydia Velázquez. All three candidates won their primaries.The question is: Can Mamdani's influence travel beyond his home city?.<h2>Republicans trying to make Mamdani a midterm issue</h2>Republicans have increasingly invoked Mamdani while warning voters that Democrats are moving too far to the left. The strategy seeks to connect his democratic-socialist politics with the wider Democratic Party, including candidates who do not share his positions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-victory-claims-200-days-of-war-is-trump-s-iran-gamble-turning-into-a-midterm-nightmare-us-midterms-2026-1790843647554">100 victory claims, 200+ days of war: Is Trump's Iran gamble turning into a midterm nightmare?</a>President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has maintained a cordial relationship with Mamdani, praising the mayor after their meeting at the White House and later speaking positively about his start in office. According to the Associated Press, Trump's warmth towards Mamdani is the cause of frustration for some Republicans who are seeking to portray the NYC mayor as evidence of Democratic extremism.<h2>Mamdani's affordability message could help Democrats in midterms</h2>Mamdani's rise has been closely associated with the cost of living and calls for a more forceful economic message from Democrats. That emphasis could resonate in a midterm cycle in which the cost of groceries, fuel and other everyday essentials is emerging as a central issue for voters and a test for US President Donald Trump. According to a new AP-NORC poll, about 65 per cent of US adults surveyed said Trump's policies were responsible for today's high cost of living, while 67 per cent of Republicans said factors outside Trump's control were more responsible. Just 17 per cent approved of Trump's handling of the cost of living, while his approval on the economy stood at a new low of 26 per cent.<h2>Israel and Gaza: The recent Mamdani controversy</h2>Mamdani recently stoked controversy with his remarks on the third anniversary of the Hamas October 7 attack on Israel. The NYC Mayor, in a statement, acknowledged the "horrific war crimes of October 07" while accusing Israel of committing war crimes and genocide in Gaza.“The suffering did not begin nor end that day,” Mamdani's statement read. “It instead continued through the Israeli government’s devastating, ongoing genocide in Gaza, in which it has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians—including more than 21,000 children. Even since the so-called ceasefire, more than 1,400 Palestinians have been killed. That suffering has intensified with every Israeli bomb dropped on ambulances waiting outside hospitals, every drone strike targeting a residential building or journalist, and every shipment of food aid turned away at a border crossing. Many New Yorkers are reckoning with this unbearable grief, and we mourn alongside them—all while knowing that our tax dollars fund these war crimes.”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>“Three years later, we must refuse to accept a world in which occupation and apartheid continue, where war crimes are met with impunity, and our federal government continues its complicity with every arms shipment. To honour the dead, we must fight for a world in which every person can live with freedom, safety, and dignity,” the statement added.The statement triggered backlash, with Jewish leaders arguing that it diminished the pain associated with the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023. Some Democrats also distanced themselves from his remarks.<h2>Can the Mamdani factor shape the midterms?</h2>Mamdani has already demonstrated an ability to influence candidate selection in New York. His endorsement record gives progressives a reason to argue that the party should reconsider its approach to elections and place greater emphasis on economic insecurity and challenges to established political power.But the broader electoral effect remains uncertain. As voters prepare to choose a new Congress on November 3, the Mamdani factor is less a settled national formula than a test of the Democratic Party's direction: whether a politics built around affordability and insurgent energy can broaden its appeal, or whether the ideological battles surrounding its most visible progressive figures will become a liability.

Zohran Mamdani's influence is no longer confined to New York City. After backing 3 winning congressional primary candidates, he has become part of the wider debate. Could his politics become an asset—or a point of contention—as the US heads towards the November midterms?


New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has emerged as an unexpected force in the November 3 US midterm elections. The 34-year-old democratic socialist has already demonstrated that his influence can extend beyond City Hall. In June, three candidates he backed in New York Democratic congressional primaries defeated establishment-supported rivals, including two sitting lawmakers. The results strengthened Mamdani's position within the party and raised questions about whether his brand of politics could reshape Democratic campaigns elsewhere. But the Mamdani factor cuts both ways. Progressive activists see his appeal as evidence that Democrats can mobilise voters around affordability and a break with established political leadership. Republicans, meanwhile, have sought to make him a symbol of what they describe as the Democratic Party's shift to the left. Recent controversy over his comments on the October 7 anniversary has also exposed the political risks of his positions on Israel and Gaza. Also read | What is Gerrymandering? These new US maps could decide the 2026 US midterms Mamdani's primary victories put him on the national stage Mamdani's clearest demonstration of political muscle came in New York's June congressional primaries. He backed former city comptroller Brad Lander against Representative Dan Goldman, democratic socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier against Representative Adriano Espaillat, and state Assembly member Claire Valdez in the race for the seat being vacated by Representative Nydia Velázquez. All three candidates won their primaries. The question is: Can Mamdani's influence travel beyond his home city?. Republicans trying to make Mamdani a midterm issue Republicans have increasingly invoked Mamdani while warning voters that Democrats are moving too far to the left. The strategy seeks to connect his democratic-socialist politics with the wider Democratic Party, including candidates who do not share his positions. Also read | 100 victory claims, 200+ days of war: Is Trump's Iran gamble turning into a midterm nightmare? President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has maintained a cordial relationship with Mamdani, praising the mayor after their meeting at the White House and later speaking positively about his start in office. According to the Associated Press, Trump's warmth towards Mamdani is the cause of frustration for some Republicans who are seeking to portray the NYC mayor as evidence of Democratic extremism. Mamdani's affordability message could help Democrats in midterms Mamdani's rise has been closely associated with the cost of living and calls for a more forceful economic message from Democrats. That emphasis could resonate in a midterm cycle in which the cost of groceries, fuel and other everyday essentials is emerging as a central issue for voters and a test for US President Donald Trump. According to a new AP-NORC poll, about 65 per cent of US adults surveyed said Trump's policies were responsible for today's high cost of living, while 67 per cent of Republicans said factors outside Trump's control were more responsible. Just 17 per cent approved of Trump's handling of the cost of living, while his approval on the economy stood at a new low of 26 per cent. Israel and Gaza: The recent Mamdani controversy Mamdani recently stoked controversy with his remarks on the third anniversary of the Hamas October 7 attack on Israel. The NYC Mayor, in a statement, acknowledged the "horrific war crimes of October 07" while accusing Israel of committing war crimes and genocide in Gaza. “The suffering did not begin nor end that day,” Mamdani's statement read. “It instead continued through the Israeli government’s devastating, ongoing genocide in Gaza, in which it has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians—including more than 21,000 children. Even since the so-called ceasefire, more than 1,400 Palestinians have been killed. That suffering has intensified with every Israeli bomb dropped on ambulances waiting outside hospitals, every drone strike targeting a residential building or journalist, and every shipment of food aid turned away at a border crossing. Many New Yorkers are reckoning with this unbearable grief, and we mourn alongside them—all while knowing that our tax dollars fund these war crimes.” Also read | US Midterms 2026: How grocery bills, cost of living are turning the Nov 3 election into a test of Trump “Three years later, we must refuse to accept a world in which occupation and apartheid continue, where war crimes are met with impunity, and our federal government continues its complicity with every arms shipment. To honour the dead, we must fight for a world in which every person can live with freedom, safety, and dignity,” the statement added. The statement triggered backlash, with Jewish leaders arguing that it diminished the pain associated with the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023. Some Democrats also distanced themselves from his remarks. Can the Mamdani factor shape the midterms? Mamdani has already demonstrated an ability to influence candidate selection in New York. His endorsement record gives progressives a reason to argue that the party should reconsider its approach to elections and place greater emphasis on economic insecurity and challenges to established political power. But the broader electoral effect remains uncertain. As voters prepare to choose a new Congress on November 3, the Mamdani factor is less a settled national formula than a test of the Democratic Party's direction: whether a politics built around affordability and insurgent energy can broaden its appeal, or whether the ideological battles surrounding its most visible progressive figures will become a liability.

Zohran Mamdani's influence is no longer confined to New York City. After backing 3 winning congressional primary candidates, he has become part of the wider debate. Could his politics become an asset—or a point of contention—as the US heads towards the November midterms?

US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans

The Hamas leadership before carrying out the October 7 massacre deceived Israel into a false sense of security by activating double agents as late as the eve of the invasion to feed the Shin Bet (Israel Security Service) with fake information. They also pursued secret negotiations designed to convince Israeli officials that the organisation wanted peace and economic stability, according to a study published on Wednesday by the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA).&nbsp;The study reveals that a core part of Hamas’s strategy conceived in early 2022 was aimed at creating an impression that Israel’s “carrot and stick” policy, like threats to assassinate senior Hamas leaders with economic relief for Gaza, was working for them.&nbsp;Till the the evening of October 6, Israeli intelligence was duped to think that conditions in Gaza were normal. This allowed Hamas to conceal its plans while arming and concentrating its forces, the study stated, citing a senior figure in Hamas’s military wing.&nbsp;The military officer also said that the organisation had identified a major Israeli espionage network in Gaza as early as 2017 and subsequently recruited some of its members to work as double agents.&nbsp;The claims made by the study are consistent with elements of the Shin Bet’s own investigation into the October 7 intelligence failure. The investigation agency too had said that normal Hamas activity was reported before the massacre despite indications that there could be an attack.&nbsp;However, the claims that Hamas activated double agents to fool the Israeli security service has not been independently established.<h2>Hamas acknowledges using deception</h2>&nbsp;While Hamas officials have since the incident said they used deception as part of the preparations for the attack. In a late 2023 interview with Ammar Taqi, senior Hamas official Khaled Mashal admitted that, ahead of October 7, Hamas carried out strategic and tactical deception.&nbsp;“Regarding the aspect of strategic deception and the method of deception, as I mentioned, there was a general feeling that [Gaza] [under Hamas leadership] was focusing on its affairs, and wanted to bring in a certain amount of fuel, electricity and aid, meaning [Gaza] was licking its wounds and pains because of the blockade imposed on it, and after the 21 war [Hamas] did not respond to the escalation [in actions] carried out by the occupation in al-Quds and Al-Aqsa,” Mashal said, as reported by The Jerusalem Post&nbsp;

Till the the evening of October 6, Israeli intelligence was duped to think that conditions in Gaza were normal. This allowed Hamas to conceal its plans while arming and concentrating its forces, the study stated.

The Hamas leadership before carrying out the October 7 massacre deceived Israel into a false sense of security by activating double agents as late as the eve of the invasion to feed the Shin Bet (Israel Security Service) with fake information. They also pursued secret negotiations designed to convince Israeli officials that the organisation wanted peace and economic stability, according to a study published on Wednesday by the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA). The study reveals that a core part of Hamas’s strategy conceived in early 2022 was aimed at creating an impression that Israel’s “carrot and stick” policy, like threats to assassinate senior Hamas leaders with economic relief for Gaza, was working for them. Till the the evening of October 6, Israeli intelligence was duped to think that conditions in Gaza were normal. This allowed Hamas to conceal its plans while arming and concentrating its forces, the study stated, citing a senior figure in Hamas’s military wing. The military officer also said that the organisation had identified a major Israeli espionage network in Gaza as early as 2017 and subsequently recruited some of its members to work as double agents. The claims made by the study are consistent with elements of the Shin Bet’s own investigation into the October 7 intelligence failure. The investigation agency too had said that normal Hamas activity was reported before the massacre despite indications that there could be an attack. However, the claims that Hamas activated double agents to fool the Israeli security service has not been independently established. Hamas acknowledges using deception While Hamas officials have since the incident said they used deception as part of the preparations for the attack. In a late 2023 interview with Ammar Taqi, senior Hamas official Khaled Mashal admitted that, ahead of October 7, Hamas carried out strategic and tactical deception. “Regarding the aspect of strategic deception and the method of deception, as I mentioned, there was a general feeling that [Gaza] [under Hamas leadership] was focusing on its affairs, and wanted to bring in a certain amount of fuel, electricity and aid, meaning [Gaza] was licking its wounds and pains because of the blockade imposed on it, and after the 21 war [Hamas] did not respond to the escalation [in actions] carried out by the occupation in al-Quds and Al-Aqsa,” Mashal said, as reported by The Jerusalem Post

Till the the evening of October 6, Israeli intelligence was duped to think that conditions in Gaza were normal. This allowed Hamas to conceal its plans while arming and concentrating its forces, the study stated.

Hamas used double agents, deceived Israel to carry out October 7 massacre

An alarming artificial intelligence failure has raised fresh questions about the risks posed by increasingly autonomous AI agents. An Anthropic model submitted a fabricated tip about an unsolved homicide to Philadelphia police. Authorities have criticised the company because the incident was reported to the police two months after it occurred.The Philadelphia Police Department revealed that the false tip was submitted on July 18 through PhillyUnsolvedMurders.com, a public website where people can share information about unsolved killings. The AI model presented itself as someone who might have knowledge of the case, according to the department.&nbsp;Anthropic said the model was running a test that involved interacting with randomly selected websites when it reached the homicide website and submitted the false information.The tip was flagged as spam and never reached the department's Real-Time Crime Centre for vetting, police said, adding that AI-generated misinformation involving real crimes cannot be treated lightly. Authorities added that there was no evidence that police systems had been breached or that departmental data had been compromised.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/something-truly-catastrophic-will-happen-former-openai-employees-sound-the-alarm-claim-they-were-fired-for-prioritising-ai-safety-1791511799924">'Something truly catastrophic will happen': Former OpenAI researchers sound the alarm, claim they were fired for prioritising AI safety</a><h2>Anthropic criticised over two-month reporting delay</h2>The Philadelphia police department said Anthropic discovered the incident on September 28, shut down the automated testing process responsible and introduced an additional validation step for future tests. However, the company waited till October 7, almost two months to notify the police.“The two-month delay in detecting and reporting the incident to the City is unacceptable,” the Philadelphia Police Department said. They acknowledged that existing safeguards had limited the damage but stressed that the incident remained serious.“[These safeguards] do not diminish the seriousness of an AI system presenting fabricated information as though it came from a person with knowledge of a homicide,” the department said.“Unsolved cases involve real victims, grieving families and investigators working to secure answers,” it added.Anthropic meanwhile argued that the newly disclosed incident, which was one among many, "had minimal real-world impact" and was "significantly less severe" than other cybersecurity incidents previously reported.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-scraps-gpt-6-1-astra-before-launch-after-safety-tests-expose-troubling-behaviour-1790647162376">OpenAI scraps GPT-6.1 Astra before launch after safety tests expose troubling behaviour</a><h2>Anthropic reveals other unintended AI actions</h2>The incident was among several examples of unintended behaviour outlined in a report Anthropic published on Friday (Oct 09). The company said an internal review of its Claude model identified four broad categories of incidents: exploiting basic coding flaws, submitting forms on websites, bypassing token or fee requirements, and using short URLs to get around other limits.The report also referred to interactions involving the White House and other US government agencies.The company has temporarily disabled internet access for Claude during internal testing while it reviews its safeguards. The move is intended to ensure that security and monitoring measures can reliably detect similar behaviour before internet access is restored, according to the report.<h2>Growing concerns over autonomous AI agents</h2>The episode adds to mounting concerns about AI agents, systems designed to carry out multiple steps and interact with websites and digital services with limited human supervision. Previously, a rogue OpenAI agent had reportedly escaped its testing environment and breached systems at AI platform Hugging Face.

An alarming AI failure has come under scrutiny after Anthropic's Claude model submitted a fabricated tip about an unsolved homicide to Philadelphia police. Notably, there was a nearly two-month delay before the company reported the incident.

An alarming artificial intelligence failure has raised fresh questions about the risks posed by increasingly autonomous AI agents. An Anthropic model submitted a fabricated tip about an unsolved homicide to Philadelphia police. Authorities have criticised the company because the incident was reported to the police two months after it occurred. The Philadelphia Police Department revealed that the false tip was submitted on July 18 through PhillyUnsolvedMurders.com, a public website where people can share information about unsolved killings. The AI model presented itself as someone who might have knowledge of the case, according to the department. Anthropic said the model was running a test that involved interacting with randomly selected websites when it reached the homicide website and submitted the false information. The tip was flagged as spam and never reached the department's Real-Time Crime Centre for vetting, police said, adding that AI-generated misinformation involving real crimes cannot be treated lightly. Authorities added that there was no evidence that police systems had been breached or that departmental data had been compromised. Also read | 'Something truly catastrophic will happen': Former OpenAI researchers sound the alarm, claim they were fired for prioritising AI safety Anthropic criticised over two-month reporting delay The Philadelphia police department said Anthropic discovered the incident on September 28, shut down the automated testing process responsible and introduced an additional validation step for future tests. However, the company waited till October 7, almost two months to notify the police. “The two-month delay in detecting and reporting the incident to the City is unacceptable,” the Philadelphia Police Department said. They acknowledged that existing safeguards had limited the damage but stressed that the incident remained serious. “[These safeguards] do not diminish the seriousness of an AI system presenting fabricated information as though it came from a person with knowledge of a homicide,” the department said. “Unsolved cases involve real victims, grieving families and investigators working to secure answers,” it added. Anthropic meanwhile argued that the newly disclosed incident, which was one among many, "had minimal real-world impact" and was "significantly less severe" than other cybersecurity incidents previously reported. Also read | OpenAI scraps GPT-6.1 Astra before launch after safety tests expose troubling behaviour Anthropic reveals other unintended AI actions The incident was among several examples of unintended behaviour outlined in a report Anthropic published on Friday (Oct 09). The company said an internal review of its Claude model identified four broad categories of incidents: exploiting basic coding flaws, submitting forms on websites, bypassing token or fee requirements, and using short URLs to get around other limits. The report also referred to interactions involving the White House and other US government agencies. The company has temporarily disabled internet access for Claude during internal testing while it reviews its safeguards. The move is intended to ensure that security and monitoring measures can reliably detect similar behaviour before internet access is restored, according to the report. Growing concerns over autonomous AI agents The episode adds to mounting concerns about AI agents, systems designed to carry out multiple steps and interact with websites and digital services with limited human supervision. Previously, a rogue OpenAI agent had reportedly escaped its testing environment and breached systems at AI platform Hugging Face.

An alarming AI failure has come under scrutiny after Anthropic's Claude model submitted a fabricated tip about an unsolved homicide to Philadelphia police. Notably, there was a nearly two-month delay before the company reported the incident.

Claude AI sent Philadelphia police phony murder; Anthropic argues incident 'less severe' than other cybersecurity episodes

The flydubai co-pilot who allegedly tried to hijack an Israel-bound flight and attacked a colleague in the cockpit spent about two years in Australia as a student. It is here that he was radicalised, according to prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates. Dr Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, attorney general of the UAE on Friday (Oct 9) said al-Hammami’s began to develop extremist views while he was studying at RMIT University in Melbourne.&nbsp;"The findings indicated that signs of his drift towards extremism and terrorism first emerged in 2017, while he was studying in Australia," the attorney-general was quoted as saying by the UAE's state news agency WAM.&nbsp;During his time in Melbourne, al-Hammami’ got influenced by the hardline takfiri ideology.&nbsp;"During that period, he was influenced by takfiri [radical] ideology through reading extremist literature and following online content glorifying terrorist organisations and suicide attacks," said the attorney-general.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-president-declares-major-disaster-after-powerful-7-7-magnitude-earthquake-triggers-tsunami-warning-1791605192113">Panama president declares ‘major disaster’ after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake; over 80 aftershocks recorded</a>&nbsp;According to the statement, al-Hammami revealed to prosecutors that he drew inspiration from the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001.&nbsp;“The idea of carrying out a similar operation using an aircraft became firmly established in his thinking,” the statement said.&nbsp;Al-Hammami was granted an Australian student visa in 2014, before arriving in the country to commence a university course the following year. He left Australia in 2017, and his visa was cancelled in 2019 after authorities confirmed he was no longer enrolled in the course.&nbsp;Australian security agencies launched an investigation after it came to light that al-Hammami spent about two years in the country as a student.&nbsp;More than 170 passengers and crew were on board flight FZ1073 on its way to Israel on 30 September.

During his time in Melbourne, al-Hammami’ got influenced by the hardline takfiri ideology and drew inspiration from the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001.

The flydubai co-pilot who allegedly tried to hijack an Israel-bound flight and attacked a colleague in the cockpit spent about two years in Australia as a student. It is here that he was radicalised, according to prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates. Dr Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, attorney general of the UAE on Friday (Oct 9) said al-Hammami’s began to develop extremist views while he was studying at RMIT University in Melbourne. "The findings indicated that signs of his drift towards extremism and terrorism first emerged in 2017, while he was studying in Australia," the attorney-general was quoted as saying by the UAE's state news agency WAM. During his time in Melbourne, al-Hammami’ got influenced by the hardline takfiri ideology. "During that period, he was influenced by takfiri [radical] ideology through reading extremist literature and following online content glorifying terrorist organisations and suicide attacks," said the attorney-general. ALSO READ: Panama president declares ‘major disaster’ after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake; over 80 aftershocks recorded According to the statement, al-Hammami revealed to prosecutors that he drew inspiration from the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001. “The idea of carrying out a similar operation using an aircraft became firmly established in his thinking,” the statement said. Al-Hammami was granted an Australian student visa in 2014, before arriving in the country to commence a university course the following year. He left Australia in 2017, and his visa was cancelled in 2019 after authorities confirmed he was no longer enrolled in the course. Australian security agencies launched an investigation after it came to light that al-Hammami spent about two years in the country as a student. More than 170 passengers and crew were on board flight FZ1073 on its way to Israel on 30 September.

During his time in Melbourne, al-Hammami’ got influenced by the hardline takfiri ideology and drew inspiration from the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001.

Flydubai co-pilot developed extremist views while studying in Australia: UAE prosecutors

Most Republican candidates in competitive congressional races are keeping their distance from US President Donald Trump ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, according to a news agency Reuters analysis. Reuters found that 41 of 62 Republican candidates in competitive House and Senate contests, about two-thirds, are trying to improve their prospects by separating themselves from the unpopular president.&nbsp;The steps include voting or speaking against Trump's policies, such as the war in Iran and his push on data centres, and removing mentions of him from campaign websites. Others have taken milder steps, such as declining to say whether they want him to campaign for them or skipping events he is attending.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-russian-diesel-deal-as-zelensky-criticises-move-1791594316435">Trump announces Russian diesel deal as Zelensky criticises move</a>&nbsp;The report named Miami Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar and Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers among those who have broken with Trump, over his war with Iran or hard-line immigration policies.&nbsp;At least a dozen candidates have removed Trump's name, image or endorsements from their websites. Mike Beltran, a Republican challenging Democratic Florida Rep. Kathy Castor, had a photo of himself with Trump on his site in August. It has since been taken down, and the site no longer mentions the president.&nbsp;Also identifying 11 Republican candidates who have criticised Trump on one issue while backing him on others. Nebraska Sen. Pete Ricketts, who is in a close race with independent challenger Dan Osborn, has criticised the plan to expand beef imports. He nonetheless joined Trump at a midterm campaign rally in Nebraska on Monday.&nbsp;Republican strategist Ron Bonjean told Reuters that candidates often distance themselves from the president in a midterm year, but the scale of the pushback within Trump's own party stands out. "Candidates are reflecting voter attitudes in these races," he said.&nbsp;The Republican Party is widely expected to lose control of the House in November. The party in power historically loses seats in the lower chamber, and the GOP's majority is currently razor-thin. Democrats need to flip at least four seats to win the Senate, including in typically Republican states.&nbsp;White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Reuters that Trump remains "the unequivocal leader, best messenger and unmatched motivator" for the party. The Republican National Committee said the party remains committed to Trump. National Press Secretary Natalie Baldassarre said in a statement that Republicans are united behind the president's agenda of cutting taxes, lowering drug costs and securing communities. She added that the party is focused on winning and that its candidates will run the races needed to represent their districts and stop Democrats taking control. She also accused Democrats of being in a "full-blown civil war with extremists."

An analysis by news agency Rueters reveals nearly two-thirds of Republican candidates in competitive House and Senate races are distancing themselves from President Donald Trump, scrubbing endorsements, and opposing key policies ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

Most Republican candidates in competitive congressional races are keeping their distance from US President Donald Trump ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, according to a news agency Reuters analysis. Reuters found that 41 of 62 Republican candidates in competitive House and Senate contests, about two-thirds, are trying to improve their prospects by separating themselves from the unpopular president. The steps include voting or speaking against Trump's policies, such as the war in Iran and his push on data centres, and removing mentions of him from campaign websites. Others have taken milder steps, such as declining to say whether they want him to campaign for them or skipping events he is attending. Also read: Trump announces Russian diesel deal as Zelensky criticises move The report named Miami Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar and Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers among those who have broken with Trump, over his war with Iran or hard-line immigration policies. At least a dozen candidates have removed Trump's name, image or endorsements from their websites. Mike Beltran, a Republican challenging Democratic Florida Rep. Kathy Castor, had a photo of himself with Trump on his site in August. It has since been taken down, and the site no longer mentions the president. Also identifying 11 Republican candidates who have criticised Trump on one issue while backing him on others. Nebraska Sen. Pete Ricketts, who is in a close race with independent challenger Dan Osborn, has criticised the plan to expand beef imports. He nonetheless joined Trump at a midterm campaign rally in Nebraska on Monday. Republican strategist Ron Bonjean told Reuters that candidates often distance themselves from the president in a midterm year, but the scale of the pushback within Trump's own party stands out. "Candidates are reflecting voter attitudes in these races," he said. The Republican Party is widely expected to lose control of the House in November. The party in power historically loses seats in the lower chamber, and the GOP's majority is currently razor-thin. Democrats need to flip at least four seats to win the Senate, including in typically Republican states. White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Reuters that Trump remains "the unequivocal leader, best messenger and unmatched motivator" for the party. The Republican National Committee said the party remains committed to Trump. National Press Secretary Natalie Baldassarre said in a statement that Republicans are united behind the president's agenda of cutting taxes, lowering drug costs and securing communities. She added that the party is focused on winning and that its candidates will run the races needed to represent their districts and stop Democrats taking control. She also accused Democrats of being in a "full-blown civil war with extremists."

An analysis by news agency Rueters reveals nearly two-thirds of Republican candidates in competitive House and Senate races are distancing themselves from President Donald Trump, scrubbing endorsements, and opposing key policies ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

Two-thirds of competitive GOP candidates split with trump ahead of November midterms

The USS Abraham Lincoln has returned to San Diego after an extended deployment supporting the US war on Iran. Behind emotional reunions were reports of food shortages, eight suicide attempts, communication difficulties and mounting concerns over the toll of months at sea. All you need to knowHurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Florida, on Friday (Oct 09) night as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the US Gulf Coast, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. The hurricane came ashore at around 8:30 pm local time, with maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour (165 km/h), according to the NHC's landfall update. The storm was moving north at about 19 mph (31 km/h), with hazardous conditions spreading inland.In India, Delhi Police has stepped up security across central Delhi ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar on Saturday (Oct 10), with more than 35,000 police and paramilitary personnel deployed across the national capital. Uniform-mounted body cameras, multi-layered barricades, Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel and the all-women Pink Force are among the measures being used as authorities seek to prevent a repeat of the clashes during the July 20 protest.Stay with us for the latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Christa Pike has officially been discharged from the hospital and returned to the Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Centre in Nashville, where she has spent the last 30 years, according to a statement from her lawyers on Saturday."She is grateful to the first responders and her medical team for their care in these extraordinary circumstances," her lawyers said in their statement.

Christa Pike discharged from hospital and returned to prison

Nine people, including two children, are reported dead after a mass shooting and an hours-long standoff in Erie. According to CBS affiliate Erie News Now, police were called to Perry Street around 5 p.m. on Friday after witnesses reported seeing a man firing a gun before he entered a home.Two women were found dead in the street, and more victims were found dead inside the home. Police said that the suspect was also found dead with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. While it remains unclear if the suspect is among those reported in the total number of deaths, police have said there is no longer a threat to public safety.&nbsp;

Multiple people killed, including 2 children, in reported mass shooting in northern Pennsylvania

Ukraine's capital Kyiv suffered "large-scale power outages" on Saturday because of Russian strikes, the country's largest private energy provider said. "New large-scale power outages in the capital due to attacks. Stabilisation schedules are currently not in effect," DTEK, a private energy firm, said in a statement on Telegram.

Large-scale power outages in Kyiv due to Russian strikes: energy company

“Netanyahu is a wanted war criminal with Arab, American &amp; Iranian blood on his hands. To escape justice, he has no regard for his own people either. Like a degenerate gambler, he's desperately seeking to save himself with more U.S. blood and treasure. Even U.S. Senators want out,” Seyed Abbas Araghchi said in a post on X.

'Netanyahu is a wanted war criminal': Seyed Abbas Araghchi

Mauritania’s Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Djiay has been reappointed, just hours after submitting his resignation to President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, following a scathing report into two major fires at electricity facilities. He has been tasked with forming a new government and says that he "naturally expressed my gratitude and appreciation to [the President] for this task."

Mauritania: Prime Minister reappointed hours after resigning

"When I posted a message appealing for unity &amp; peace in today's protest I had never imagined that the biggest democracy in the world would be under an undeclared EMERGENCY. I was happy there were so many leaders to lead the movement. I hope those arrested will be released soon. I will be compelled to consider Anshan Fast or Padyatra March if they are not released by tomorrow," Sonam Wangchuk said.

'INDIA IN A STATE OF UNDECLARED EMERGENCY': Sonam Wangchuk 

Delhi court convicts former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain in case linked to 2020 northeast Delhi riots.

Delhi court convicts former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain in 2020 northeast Delhi riots case

NIA filed a case to investigate a mid-air cockpit attack on Captain Smit Machchhar aboard Flydubai flight: NIA Officials

NIA filed case to probe mid-air cockpit attack on Captain Smit

Russian strikes killed at least 11 people in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region, officials said Saturday, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a deal to buy Russian diesel that Kyiv warned would help bankroll Moscow’s war in Ukraine. Three children were among the 11 killed when Russian aerial bombs hit residential buildings, Mykhailo Semikin, the head of the regional military administration, said Saturday. At least 16 people were wounded in the attack, according to Ivan Fedorov, co-chair of the region’s defense council. The fate of another 12 people remains unknown, local authorities said.

Rescuers search for victims after deadly Russian strike in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia

Israeli forces fire tear gas at Palestinian olive harvesters as settlers hurl stones in West Bank.

Israeli forces fire tear gas at Palestinian

As the Jantar Mantar protest is ongoing, BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra has held a press conference where he said, "The four-kilometer area of Jantar Mantar is not the story of India.” Further adding that "There are some anarchists involved in Delhi and Jantar Mantar.”As he continued to say that India quiet, only a corner in Delhi is protesting. The protest site has thousands of security forces deployed; many demonstrators have been detained. While the BJP leader said, “There were attempts to hold Delhi captive. They wanted violence here; they wanted to create unrest.” In a stern tone, he declared, “the anarchists have failed”, continuing that “there is anarchy within the anarchists also.”<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jantar-mantar-not-the-story-of-india-bjp-s-sambit-patra-claims-anarchists-tried-to-hold-delhi-captive-1791623249798">Read more</a>

'Jantar Mantar not the story of India': BJP's Sambit Patra claims 'anarchists' tried to hold Delhi captive

The flydubai co-pilot who allegedly tried to hijack an Israel-bound flight and attacked a colleague in the cockpit spent about two years in Australia as a student. It is here that he was radicalised, according to prosecutors in the United Arab Emirates. Dr Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, attorney general of the UAE on Friday (Oct 9) said al-Hammami’s began to develop extremist views while he was studying at RMIT University in Melbourne.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-co-pilot-developed-extremist-views-while-studying-in-australia-uae-prosecutors-1791613443387">Read more</a>

Most Republican candidates in competitive congressional races are keeping their distance from US President Donald Trump ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, according to a news agency Reuters analysis. Reuters found that 41 of 62 Republican candidates in competitive House and Senate contests, about two-thirds, are trying to improve their prospects by separating themselves from the unpopular president.The steps include voting or speaking against Trump's policies, such as the war in Iran and his push on data centres, and removing mentions of him from campaign websites. Others have taken milder steps, such as declining to say whether they want him to campaign for them or skipping events he is attending.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-thirds-of-competitive-gop-candidates-split-with-trump-ahead-of-november-midterms-1791607673799">Read more</a>

The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered a major reshuffle in the Police Department, transferring and posting 100 officers across the Union Territory with immediate effect. The order, issued by the Home Department under Government Order No. 499-Home of 2026, dated October 9, 2026, covers senior IPS officers, district police chiefs, CID officials, traffic and railway police, security establishments, training institutions and Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police battalions.&nbsp;Read more

J&K Government orders major police reshuffle, transfers 100 officers across UT

The flight carrying CJP founder Abhijit Dipke and his associates Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das has landed in Delhi.

CJP founder Abhijit Dipke landed in Delhi

Dhruv Rathee was detained at his home in Gurugram around 8 am. He was scheduled to participate in the CJP protest today.Rathee had been consistently supporting the CJP protest.

YouTuber Dhruv Rathee was detained by Delhi Police

Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino on Friday (Oct 09) declared a “major disaster” after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked the Central American country, collapsing roads and buildings and injuring at least two people. “We are facing a major disaster,” Mulino said, adding that some roads near the epicentre had “completely collapsed”. He did not provide details of casualties.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-president-declares-major-disaster-after-powerful-7-7-magnitude-earthquake-triggers-tsunami-warning-1791605192113">Read more</a>

Panama president declares ‘major disaster’ after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake; over 80 aftershocks recorded

Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Florida, on Friday (Oct 09) night as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the US Gulf Coast, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. The hurricane came ashore at around 8:30 pm local time, with maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour (165 km/h), according to the NHC's landfall update. The storm was moving north at about 19 mph (31 km/h), with hazardous conditions spreading inland.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-isaias-makes-landfall-in-florida-as-category-2-storm-threatens-gulf-coast-with-life-threatening-surge-1791598651663">Read more</a> &nbsp;

Hurricane Isaias makes landfall in Florida as Category 2 storm with winds of 105mph, threatens Gulf Coast with life-threatening surge

Stay updated with today's top stories: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to San Diego amid deployment concerns, Category 2 Hurricane Isaias makes landfall near Destin, Florida, and Delhi Police deploy over 35,000 personnel ahead of CJP protests at Jantar Mantar.

The USS Abraham Lincoln has returned to San Diego after an extended deployment supporting the US war on Iran. Behind emotional reunions were reports of food shortages, eight suicide attempts, communication difficulties and mounting concerns over the toll of months at sea. All you need to know Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Florida, on Friday (Oct 09) night as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the US Gulf Coast, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. The hurricane came ashore at around 8:30 pm local time, with maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour (165 km/h), according to the NHC's landfall update. The storm was moving north at about 19 mph (31 km/h), with hazardous conditions spreading inland. In India, Delhi Police has stepped up security across central Delhi ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar on Saturday (Oct 10), with more than 35,000 police and paramilitary personnel deployed across the national capital. Uniform-mounted body cameras, multi-layered barricades, Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel and the all-women Pink Force are among the measures being used as authorities seek to prevent a repeat of the clashes during the July 20 protest. Stay with us for the latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Stay updated with today's top stories: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to San Diego amid deployment concerns, Category 2 Hurricane Isaias makes landfall near Destin, Florida, and Delhi Police deploy over 35,000 personnel ahead of CJP protests at Jantar Mantar.

Latest News India and World LIVE Updates: US warship returns amid scrutiny, Florida hit by hurricane, high security in Delhi

The USS Abraham Lincoln has returned to San Diego after an extended deployment supporting the US war on Iran. Behind emotional reunions were reports of food shortages, eight suicide attempts, communication difficulties and mounting concerns over the toll of months at sea.


The USS Abraham Lincoln has returned to San Diego after an extended deployment supporting the US war on Iran. Behind emotional reunions were reports of food shortages, eight suicide attempts, communication difficulties and mounting concerns over the toll of months at sea. All you need to know

Food shortages, suicide attempts and more: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to US after 321 day deployment — What happened aboard the US carrier?

Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino on Friday (Oct 09) declared a “major disaster” after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked the Central American country, collapsing roads and buildings and injuring at least two people. “We are facing a major disaster,” Mulino said, adding that some roads near the epicentre had “completely collapsed”. He did not provide details of casualties.The head of emergency operations, Rene Garcia, told AFP that there were no reports of fatalities so far. Two people were injured after being trapped in separate collapsed structures, one near a church in Veraguas and the other in a hotel in Cocle province, Garcia said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-7-7-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-panama-tsunami-warning-issued-1791573774578">Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued</a><h2>What happened in Panama?</h2>The shallow earthquake struck at 12:56 pm local time (1756 GMT), with its epicentre about 10 kilometres (six miles) from the town of Pitaloza Arriba in central Herrera province, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The agency initially estimated the magnitude at 8.0 before revising it to 7.7.The tremor was felt across the country, home to around 4.5 million people. In Panama City, about 200 kilometres (120 miles) from the epicentre, people rushed out of high-rise buildings as the shaking triggered panic.“I was scared because the shaking was very strong and prolonged,” Salomon Andion, 46, told AFP after evacuating his 15-storey building for the second time following aftershocks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/food-shortages-suicide-attempts-and-more-uss-abraham-lincoln-returns-to-us-after-321-day-deployment-supporting-war-on-iran-the-whole-row-explained-1791521270404">Food shortages, suicide attempts and more: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to US after 321 day deployment amid Iran war — What happened aboard the US carrier?</a><h2>Airport shut, towns cut off</h2>Panama City's international airport was temporarily closed, with several flights diverted as a precaution, according to the Civil Aeronautics Authority.The Panama Canal Authority said shipping through the canal, which connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, remained unaffected and was operating normally.Health Minister Fernando Boyd said Herrera, Cocle and Los Santos were among the worst-affected provinces. The town of Tonosi in Los Santos was completely cut off, and authorities were exploring ways to reach it by air because road access was impossible, he said.A tsunami warning issued for the eastern Pacific was later lifted. More than 80 aftershocks have been recorded, including one measuring above magnitude 6.0, according to the local geosciences institute.&nbsp;The education ministry has suspended classes in schools nationwide. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was closely monitoring the situation and was mobilising resources and personnel to assist at the Panamanian government's request.&nbsp;

Panama's president has declared a “major disaster” after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the country, collapsing roads and buildings and injuring at least two people. The airport was temporarily closed, a tsunami warning was lifted and aftershocks continued.


Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino on Friday (Oct 09) declared a “major disaster” after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked the Central American country, collapsing roads and buildings and injuring at least two people. “We are facing a major disaster,” Mulino said, adding that some roads near the epicentre had “completely collapsed”. He did not provide details of casualties. The head of emergency operations, Rene Garcia, told AFP that there were no reports of fatalities so far. Two people were injured after being trapped in separate collapsed structures, one near a church in Veraguas and the other in a hotel in Cocle province, Garcia said. Also read | Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued What happened in Panama? The shallow earthquake struck at 12:56 pm local time (1756 GMT), with its epicentre about 10 kilometres (six miles) from the town of Pitaloza Arriba in central Herrera province, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The agency initially estimated the magnitude at 8.0 before revising it to 7.7. The tremor was felt across the country, home to around 4.5 million people. In Panama City, about 200 kilometres (120 miles) from the epicentre, people rushed out of high-rise buildings as the shaking triggered panic. “I was scared because the shaking was very strong and prolonged,” Salomon Andion, 46, told AFP after evacuating his 15-storey building for the second time following aftershocks. Also read | Food shortages, suicide attempts and more: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to US after 321 day deployment amid Iran war — What happened aboard the US carrier? Airport shut, towns cut off Panama City's international airport was temporarily closed, with several flights diverted as a precaution, according to the Civil Aeronautics Authority. The Panama Canal Authority said shipping through the canal, which connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, remained unaffected and was operating normally. Health Minister Fernando Boyd said Herrera, Cocle and Los Santos were among the worst-affected provinces. The town of Tonosi in Los Santos was completely cut off, and authorities were exploring ways to reach it by air because road access was impossible, he said. A tsunami warning issued for the eastern Pacific was later lifted. More than 80 aftershocks have been recorded, including one measuring above magnitude 6.0, according to the local geosciences institute. The education ministry has suspended classes in schools nationwide. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was closely monitoring the situation and was mobilising resources and personnel to assist at the Panamanian government's request.

Panama's president has declared a “major disaster” after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the country, collapsing roads and buildings and injuring at least two people. The airport was temporarily closed, a tsunami warning was lifted and aftershocks continued.

US Vice President JD Vance has expressed doubts about whether the Pentagon will proceed with plans to publicly livestream the December execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, the gunman responsible for the deadly 2009 Fort Hood shooting in Texas. Speaking on Friday, Vance questioned whether the proposed broadcast would actually take place, despite Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s earlier remarks suggesting that the public would be able to watch the execution. “I don’t know that that’s actually going to happen.”&nbsp;Vance also suggested that he would not watch the execution if it were broadcast publicly. “Now, that said, I mean, look, if it’s ultimately livestreamed, I’m not going to be watching it.” The vice president sought to shift attention away from the controversy over the proposed broadcast, stressing the severity of Hasan’s crimes. The 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, a US military installation in Texas, killed 13 people and wounded 32 others. “So whatever the controversy is about the method of the execution, I hope that people don’t forget that this is a guy who brutally murdered a lot of innocent people,” Vance remarked.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-ended-8-wars-trump-slams-nobel-peace-prize-decision-claims-award-was-his-due-1791595706077">'I ended 8 wars': Trump slams Nobel Peace prize decision, claims award was his due</a><h2>What is a firing squad execution?</h2>A firing squad execution is a method of capital punishment in which a group of shooters fires at a condemned person. The method has historically been used in military justice systems, including by the US military. Hegseth said he would arrange for a firing squad of soldiers, according to USA Today. Reuters has reported that the US Army historically carried out executions for military offences, including desertion. Hundreds of soldiers were sentenced to death during the American Civil War. The last US military member executed by firing squad was Pvt Eddie Slovik, who was put to death for desertion on January 31, 1945, according to Air &amp; Space Forces Magazine.<h2>Will Nidal Hasan’s execution be livestreamed?</h2>The question of whether Hasan’s execution will be broadcast publicly remains unresolved. US President Donald Trump said on Friday that no decision had been made on whether to publicly broadcast the execution, according to AFP. His remarks appeared to differ from Hegseth’s earlier comments indicating that the public would be able to watch. On October 8, Hegseth said in an interview with Real America’s Voice that the execution would be made accessible to the public. “We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it’s public,” Hegseth said in an interview with Real America’s Voice. “Because people need to understand that there are serious consequences for these types of things.”&nbsp;The proposal has raised questions about the legal and ethical implications of publicly broadcasting an execution. According to USA Today, there is no known record of a government livestreaming an execution. The Death Penalty Information Center also said it could not identify a previous instance of an execution being livestreamed. “We have no record of any execution being livestreamed,” the center’s executive director, Robin Maher, told USA Today.

JD Vance questions the Pentagon’s plan to livestream Nidal Hasan’s December execution. Donald Trump says no final decision has been made on the broadcast

US Vice President JD Vance has expressed doubts about whether the Pentagon will proceed with plans to publicly livestream the December execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, the gunman responsible for the deadly 2009 Fort Hood shooting in Texas. Speaking on Friday, Vance questioned whether the proposed broadcast would actually take place, despite Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s earlier remarks suggesting that the public would be able to watch the execution. “I don’t know that that’s actually going to happen.” Vance also suggested that he would not watch the execution if it were broadcast publicly. “Now, that said, I mean, look, if it’s ultimately livestreamed, I’m not going to be watching it.” The vice president sought to shift attention away from the controversy over the proposed broadcast, stressing the severity of Hasan’s crimes. The 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, a US military installation in Texas, killed 13 people and wounded 32 others. “So whatever the controversy is about the method of the execution, I hope that people don’t forget that this is a guy who brutally murdered a lot of innocent people,” Vance remarked. Also Read: 'I ended 8 wars': Trump slams Nobel Peace prize decision, claims award was his due What is a firing squad execution? A firing squad execution is a method of capital punishment in which a group of shooters fires at a condemned person. The method has historically been used in military justice systems, including by the US military. Hegseth said he would arrange for a firing squad of soldiers, according to USA Today. Reuters has reported that the US Army historically carried out executions for military offences, including desertion. Hundreds of soldiers were sentenced to death during the American Civil War. The last US military member executed by firing squad was Pvt Eddie Slovik, who was put to death for desertion on January 31, 1945, according to Air & Space Forces Magazine. Will Nidal Hasan’s execution be livestreamed? The question of whether Hasan’s execution will be broadcast publicly remains unresolved. US President Donald Trump said on Friday that no decision had been made on whether to publicly broadcast the execution, according to AFP. His remarks appeared to differ from Hegseth’s earlier comments indicating that the public would be able to watch. On October 8, Hegseth said in an interview with Real America’s Voice that the execution would be made accessible to the public. “We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it’s public,” Hegseth said in an interview with Real America’s Voice. “Because people need to understand that there are serious consequences for these types of things.” The proposal has raised questions about the legal and ethical implications of publicly broadcasting an execution. According to USA Today, there is no known record of a government livestreaming an execution. The Death Penalty Information Center also said it could not identify a previous instance of an execution being livestreamed. “We have no record of any execution being livestreamed,” the center’s executive director, Robin Maher, told USA Today.

JD Vance questions whether the Pentagon will livestream Nidal Hasan’s December execution as Trump says no final decision has been made on the broadcast

'I am not going to be watching it': JD Vance on livestream of Nidal Hasan's firing squad execution

Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Florida, on Friday (Oct 09) night as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the US Gulf Coast, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. The hurricane came ashore at around 8:30 pm local time, with maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour (165 km/h), according to the NHC's landfall update. The storm was moving north at about 19 mph (31 km/h), with hazardous conditions spreading inland.A NOAA station in Panama City Beach reported a water level of 5.6 feet above mean higher high water, providing an indication of coastal inundation. Another weather station near Santa Rosa Sound recorded a wind gust of 116 mph (187 km/h), the NHC said.Also read |&nbsp;<h2>Evacuations and preparations across Florida, Alabama</h2>The storm had prompted mandatory evacuation orders in several Florida counties, while officials warned that storm surge could push water into normally dry areas along the coast. Earlier forecasts warned of water levels reaching up to nine feet around parts of the Alabama-Florida border, alongside heavy rainfall and flash flooding.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261010/image-1791598836782.png"></figure><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261010/image-1791598824069.png"></figure><h2>Climate change and unusually late hurricane season</h2>Isaias became the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, which began in June. A strong El Niño has contributed to unusually strong wind shear over the Atlantic, conditions that generally inhibit hurricane development.Scientists have also pointed to exceptionally warm Gulf of Mexico waters as a source of energy for the storm. Climate researchers said warming oceans can help hurricanes intensify and carry more moisture, increasing the risk of heavy rainfall. Rising sea levels can also worsen storm-surge impacts.The hurricane's arrival marks the first time a storm has threatened to strike the US mainland since Hurricane Milton in 2024, according to the earlier report. Forecasters expected Isaias to weaken after moving inland, although dangerous winds, heavy rainfall and flooding could continue across parts of the southeastern United States.

Hurricane Isaias has made landfall near Destin, Florida, as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the Gulf Coast. Evacuations and emergency preparations were under way across parts of Florida and Alabama.

Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Florida, on Friday (Oct 09) night as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the US Gulf Coast, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. The hurricane came ashore at around 8:30 pm local time, with maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour (165 km/h), according to the NHC's landfall update. The storm was moving north at about 19 mph (31 km/h), with hazardous conditions spreading inland. A NOAA station in Panama City Beach reported a water level of 5.6 feet above mean higher high water, providing an indication of coastal inundation. Another weather station near Santa Rosa Sound recorded a wind gust of 116 mph (187 km/h), the NHC said. Also read | Evacuations and preparations across Florida, Alabama The storm had prompted mandatory evacuation orders in several Florida counties, while officials warned that storm surge could push water into normally dry areas along the coast. Earlier forecasts warned of water levels reaching up to nine feet around parts of the Alabama-Florida border, alongside heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Climate change and unusually late hurricane season Isaias became the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, which began in June. A strong El Niño has contributed to unusually strong wind shear over the Atlantic, conditions that generally inhibit hurricane development. Scientists have also pointed to exceptionally warm Gulf of Mexico waters as a source of energy for the storm. Climate researchers said warming oceans can help hurricanes intensify and carry more moisture, increasing the risk of heavy rainfall. Rising sea levels can also worsen storm-surge impacts. The hurricane's arrival marks the first time a storm has threatened to strike the US mainland since Hurricane Milton in 2024, according to the earlier report. Forecasters expected Isaias to weaken after moving inland, although dangerous winds, heavy rainfall and flooding could continue across parts of the southeastern United States.

Hurricane Isaias has made landfall near Destin, Florida, as a Category 2 storm, bringing dangerous winds, life-threatening storm surge and flash-flood risks to the Gulf Coast. Evacuations and emergency preparations were under way across parts of Florida and Alabama.

US President Donald Trump voiced frustration on Friday over not receiving the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, devoting a significant portion of a campaign-style rally in Syracuse, New York, to criticising the Nobel Committee and defending his foreign policy record. Trump's remarks came in a year marked by the US conflict with Iran, adding to scrutiny of his claims that he has helped bring international wars to an end.&nbsp;The event was intended to support Republican candidates, but Trump spent an extended period discussing the Nobel Peace Prize decision and arguing that the honour should have been awarded to him. “The United States of America, represented by me as your president, should have received the Nobel peace prize, but didn’t. And this is an indelible stain on the country of Norway, and those people that made such a disgraceful and embarrassing decision,” Trump said. He continued his criticism of the award's organisers, accusing them of undermining the credibility of the prize.“The Nobel peace prize has been forever discredited by a handful of radical ideologues who are anti-democracy and really enemies of civilization,” Trump went on. “We will not forget, Norway, that you didn’t give this prize.”<h2>Trump claims credit for ending wars</h2>During his speech, Trump listed several conflicts he said he had helped resolve, although some of the situations he cited were not wars and others remain unresolved. He also claimed that two additional conflicts could soon be settled, referring to Iran and Russia's war against Ukraine. “I’m about to settle or win two more: Iran and Russia-Ukraine.” Trump said he expected to bring both conflicts to a conclusion quickly, presenting his diplomatic efforts as evidence that he deserved international recognition for promoting peace. However, the status of these conflicts and the extent of any progress towards a settlement remain important considerations when assessing his claims.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-russian-diesel-deal-as-zelensky-criticises-move-1791594316435">Trump announces Russian diesel deal as Zelensky criticises move</a><h2>Trump issues stark warning to Iran</h2>Trump adopted a particularly forceful tone when discussing Iran, suggesting that the confrontation would end either through Tehran accepting US demands or through a far more destructive outcome. “I will tell you what,” he added, darkly. “Iran will be very quick one way or the other: that they give us everything or they don’t exist any longer.” The warning comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran following the US conflict with Iran.&nbsp;Trump also claimed that his actions had prevented Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and averted a much wider regional catastrophe. “Additionally, I stopped Iran from having a nuclear weapon and blowing up the entire Middle East and ultimately far beyond the Middle East, including Europe, perhaps the US and I saved more lives than anyone in history,” Trump claimed, despite the fact that US intelligence agencies reported to Congress in 2025 that Iran had actually suspended its pursuit of nuclear weapons in 2003.<h3>Trump questions Nobel Peace prize laureate</h3>Trump also criticised the choice of the Nobel Peace Prize recipient, questioning the laureate's public profile and political outlook. “Despite all of this and all of these unbelievable accomplishments, the Nobel prize was given out today to a liberal person who works at the United Nations, who nobody has ever heard of,” Trump said of Navi Pillay, the South African former UN human rights chief who chaired the UN commission that concluded Israel was guilty of genocide in Gaza. Pillay's work on international human rights and the commission's findings have placed her at the centre of contentious debates over the Israel-Gaza conflict.&nbsp;

Donald Trump criticises the Nobel Peace Prize decision, claims he ended eight wars and repeats his assertions about stopping the India-Pakistan war

US President Donald Trump voiced frustration on Friday over not receiving the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, devoting a significant portion of a campaign-style rally in Syracuse, New York, to criticising the Nobel Committee and defending his foreign policy record. Trump's remarks came in a year marked by the US conflict with Iran, adding to scrutiny of his claims that he has helped bring international wars to an end. The event was intended to support Republican candidates, but Trump spent an extended period discussing the Nobel Peace Prize decision and arguing that the honour should have been awarded to him. “The United States of America, represented by me as your president, should have received the Nobel peace prize, but didn’t. And this is an indelible stain on the country of Norway, and those people that made such a disgraceful and embarrassing decision,” Trump said. He continued his criticism of the award's organisers, accusing them of undermining the credibility of the prize. “The Nobel peace prize has been forever discredited by a handful of radical ideologues who are anti-democracy and really enemies of civilization,” Trump went on. “We will not forget, Norway, that you didn’t give this prize.” Trump claims credit for ending wars During his speech, Trump listed several conflicts he said he had helped resolve, although some of the situations he cited were not wars and others remain unresolved. He also claimed that two additional conflicts could soon be settled, referring to Iran and Russia's war against Ukraine. “I’m about to settle or win two more: Iran and Russia-Ukraine.” Trump said he expected to bring both conflicts to a conclusion quickly, presenting his diplomatic efforts as evidence that he deserved international recognition for promoting peace. However, the status of these conflicts and the extent of any progress towards a settlement remain important considerations when assessing his claims. Also Read: Trump announces Russian diesel deal as Zelensky criticises move Trump issues stark warning to Iran Trump adopted a particularly forceful tone when discussing Iran, suggesting that the confrontation would end either through Tehran accepting US demands or through a far more destructive outcome. “I will tell you what,” he added, darkly. “Iran will be very quick one way or the other: that they give us everything or they don’t exist any longer.” The warning comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran following the US conflict with Iran. Trump also claimed that his actions had prevented Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and averted a much wider regional catastrophe. “Additionally, I stopped Iran from having a nuclear weapon and blowing up the entire Middle East and ultimately far beyond the Middle East, including Europe, perhaps the US and I saved more lives than anyone in history,” Trump claimed, despite the fact that US intelligence agencies reported to Congress in 2025 that Iran had actually suspended its pursuit of nuclear weapons in 2003. Trump questions Nobel Peace prize laureate Trump also criticised the choice of the Nobel Peace Prize recipient, questioning the laureate's public profile and political outlook. “Despite all of this and all of these unbelievable accomplishments, the Nobel prize was given out today to a liberal person who works at the United Nations, who nobody has ever heard of,” Trump said of Navi Pillay, the South African former UN human rights chief who chaired the UN commission that concluded Israel was guilty of genocide in Gaza. Pillay's work on international human rights and the commission's findings have placed her at the centre of contentious debates over the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Trump slams the Nobel Peace Prize decision, claims he deserved the award and repeats controversial assertions about ending wars and stopping India-Pakistan war

'I ended 8 wars': Trump slams Nobel Peace prize decision, claims award was his due

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that Russia had agreed to release substantial quantities of diesel fuel into American and international markets, as Washington eased certain restrictions on Russian energy exports in an effort to bring down rising fuel prices ahead of crucial US midterm elections. The announcement has drawn criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who described the decision as an ‘unworthy’ and ‘weak’ move, highlighting growing tensions over Washington's approach to Moscow while Russia's war against Ukraine continues.&nbsp;Russia has faced multiple rounds of sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies since its full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine in 2022. The latest move comes just weeks before the US midterm elections, with Trump's Republican Party facing political pressure as voters express concerns about the rising cost of living. Fuel prices in the United States have climbed sharply since late February, when US-Israeli strikes against Iran prompted Tehran to block the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global energy supplies.&nbsp;Following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump announced the proposed diesel deliveries on social media. "Russia will immediately supply over 300,000 Tons of Diesel Fuel to the American and Global Marketplace," Trump said. The Kremlin confirmed Moscow's willingness to supply energy products, stating that Russia "reaffirmed its readiness to supply oil and oil products to the American and world markets."&nbsp;Trump also announced plans for additional deliveries of 500,000 tons in November, followed by another one million tons, with further supplies expected afterward. Zelensky criticized the decision, expressing concern that easing restrictions on Russian energy exports could undermine efforts to pressure Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. "It is certainly not honest, it is certainly unworthy of our partners, and it is, in my view, a weak decision," Zelensky told reporters. The US Treasury Department issued a temporary license on Friday allowing Russian diesel to enter global markets through April 2027. Trump defended the move by emphasizing its potential benefits for American consumers and businesses. "Lower prices for Americans, especially our Great Farmers, Ranchers, and Truckers, is my Greatest Priority," Trump posted on social media.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-protests-erupt-as-trump-administration-defends-ice-shooting-1791575349918">New York protests erupt as Trump administration defends ICE shooting</a><h2>US fuel prices surge amid Iran conflict</h2>The announcement comes as American households and businesses face significantly higher fuel costs. The average price of regular gasoline in the United States has risen by more than 46 percent since late February, reaching $4.37 per gallon. Diesel prices have climbed approximately 67 percent over the same period to $6.28 per gallon. Trump has blamed Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries for contributing to rising fuel prices. However, the US-Israeli conflict with Iran and the resulting disruption to energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have been major factors affecting global supplies. The proposed Russian diesel deliveries could add supply to international markets, although the extent to which they would reduce prices remains uncertain. The impact will depend on the timing of shipments, market demand and the broader geopolitical situation.<h2>US and Ukrainian officials hold fresh peace talks</h2>The energy announcement coincided with a meeting between American and Ukrainian negotiators in Miami on Friday, as Washington renewed efforts to break the stalemate in Russia's war against Ukraine. US envoy Steve Witkoff described the discussions as constructive, saying the sides had explored possible ways to reduce hostilities and bring the conflict to an end before winter.&nbsp;The meeting followed visits to Moscow and Kyiv last month by Witkoff, a longtime Trump confidant, and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law. Washington has continued to pursue negotiations, although previous diplomatic efforts have made limited progress. With winter approaching, concerns are growing over the potential consequences of continued fighting and attacks on critical infrastructure. On Thursday, a Russian strike on buses in the frontline Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk reportedly killed 30 people, underscoring the continuing human cost of the conflict.<h2>Territorial disputes continue to block a settlement</h2>Trump's efforts to broker a peace agreement have repeatedly encountered difficulties over Russia's territorial demands.Moscow has insisted on controlling the entire eastern Donbas region of Ukraine, including areas that remain under Ukrainian control. Zelensky has rejected surrendering Ukrainian-held territory, warning that Russia could use any additional territorial gains as a base for future military action.&nbsp;Russia currently occupies approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory. The Miami discussions also addressed Ukraine's future security arrangements. According to Witkoff, the agenda included “security guarantees, as well as longer-term arrangements for Ukraine's and Europe's security to prevent future conflicts, and support Ukraine's post-war reconstruction.” Representatives from Britain, France and Germany attended the talks, alongside officials from NATO and the European Union.&nbsp;The negotiations highlight the complex challenges facing Washington as it attempts to pursue a peace settlement while balancing energy affordability, relations with Moscow and support for Ukraine. Whether the Russian diesel arrangement will deliver meaningful relief for American consumers remains to be seen. Meanwhile, disagreements over territorial control, security guarantees and sanctions continue to complicate efforts to end the war.

Trump eases restrictions on Russian diesel exports to lower US fuel prices as Zelensky criticizes the move and US-Ukraine peace talks resume in Miami

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that Russia had agreed to release substantial quantities of diesel fuel into American and international markets, as Washington eased certain restrictions on Russian energy exports in an effort to bring down rising fuel prices ahead of crucial US midterm elections. The announcement has drawn criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who described the decision as an ‘unworthy’ and ‘weak’ move, highlighting growing tensions over Washington's approach to Moscow while Russia's war against Ukraine continues. Russia has faced multiple rounds of sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies since its full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine in 2022. The latest move comes just weeks before the US midterm elections, with Trump's Republican Party facing political pressure as voters express concerns about the rising cost of living. Fuel prices in the United States have climbed sharply since late February, when US-Israeli strikes against Iran prompted Tehran to block the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global energy supplies. Following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump announced the proposed diesel deliveries on social media. "Russia will immediately supply over 300,000 Tons of Diesel Fuel to the American and Global Marketplace," Trump said. The Kremlin confirmed Moscow's willingness to supply energy products, stating that Russia "reaffirmed its readiness to supply oil and oil products to the American and world markets." Trump also announced plans for additional deliveries of 500,000 tons in November, followed by another one million tons, with further supplies expected afterward. Zelensky criticized the decision, expressing concern that easing restrictions on Russian energy exports could undermine efforts to pressure Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. "It is certainly not honest, it is certainly unworthy of our partners, and it is, in my view, a weak decision," Zelensky told reporters. The US Treasury Department issued a temporary license on Friday allowing Russian diesel to enter global markets through April 2027. Trump defended the move by emphasizing its potential benefits for American consumers and businesses. "Lower prices for Americans, especially our Great Farmers, Ranchers, and Truckers, is my Greatest Priority," Trump posted on social media. Also Read: New York protests erupt as Trump administration defends ICE shooting US fuel prices surge amid Iran conflict The announcement comes as American households and businesses face significantly higher fuel costs. The average price of regular gasoline in the United States has risen by more than 46 percent since late February, reaching $4.37 per gallon. Diesel prices have climbed approximately 67 percent over the same period to $6.28 per gallon. Trump has blamed Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries for contributing to rising fuel prices. However, the US-Israeli conflict with Iran and the resulting disruption to energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have been major factors affecting global supplies. The proposed Russian diesel deliveries could add supply to international markets, although the extent to which they would reduce prices remains uncertain. The impact will depend on the timing of shipments, market demand and the broader geopolitical situation. US and Ukrainian officials hold fresh peace talks The energy announcement coincided with a meeting between American and Ukrainian negotiators in Miami on Friday, as Washington renewed efforts to break the stalemate in Russia's war against Ukraine. US envoy Steve Witkoff described the discussions as constructive, saying the sides had explored possible ways to reduce hostilities and bring the conflict to an end before winter. The meeting followed visits to Moscow and Kyiv last month by Witkoff, a longtime Trump confidant, and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law. Washington has continued to pursue negotiations, although previous diplomatic efforts have made limited progress. With winter approaching, concerns are growing over the potential consequences of continued fighting and attacks on critical infrastructure. On Thursday, a Russian strike on buses in the frontline Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk reportedly killed 30 people, underscoring the continuing human cost of the conflict. Territorial disputes continue to block a settlement Trump's efforts to broker a peace agreement have repeatedly encountered difficulties over Russia's territorial demands. Moscow has insisted on controlling the entire eastern Donbas region of Ukraine, including areas that remain under Ukrainian control. Zelensky has rejected surrendering Ukrainian-held territory, warning that Russia could use any additional territorial gains as a base for future military action. Russia currently occupies approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory. The Miami discussions also addressed Ukraine's future security arrangements. According to Witkoff, the agenda included “security guarantees, as well as longer-term arrangements for Ukraine's and Europe's security to prevent future conflicts, and support Ukraine's post-war reconstruction.” Representatives from Britain, France and Germany attended the talks, alongside officials from NATO and the European Union. The negotiations highlight the complex challenges facing Washington as it attempts to pursue a peace settlement while balancing energy affordability, relations with Moscow and support for Ukraine. Whether the Russian diesel arrangement will deliver meaningful relief for American consumers remains to be seen. Meanwhile, disagreements over territorial control, security guarantees and sanctions continue to complicate efforts to end the war.

Trump eases Russia energy sanctions to secure diesel supplies and lower US fuel prices, drawing criticism from Ukraine's President Zelensky

Trump announces Russian diesel deal as Zelensky criticises move

Hundreds of protesters gathered in New York City on Friday following a shooting involving US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers that wounded a Dominican man in the Bronx. The incident has intensified tensions between Democratic Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the administration of President Donald Trump over federal immigration enforcement.&nbsp;Oscar Bergal, 28, was shot in the neck during an ICE operation on Thursday. A five-year-old child who was inside his vehicle at the time was physically unharmed, according to the initial reports. The shooting triggered a sharp political response from Mamdani, who posted the words "Abolish ICE" on X. The slogan is widely used by opponents of Trump's immigration crackdown, who have called for the federal agency to be dismantled.&nbsp;US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin strongly criticized the mayor's statement, arguing that it could increase hostility toward immigration officers. "Mayor, if you abolish ICE, who's going to take criminals off the streets of your own town?" Mullin said. “Who's going to take the murderers and the thieves and the gangbangers?” Mullin also described Mamdani's remarks as "dangerous and incite hostility."<h2>Hundreds protest against ICE in Manhattan</h2>An AFP journalist reported seeing hundreds of demonstrators marching across several blocks in Manhattan on Friday, chanting slogans including "No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here" and “No ICE.” New York City, a Democratic stronghold, is among several US cities that restrict local police from assisting federal authorities with immigration enforcement. Following Thursday's shooting, Mamdani said he was seeking a conversation with Trump and intended to demand the withdrawal of federal immigration agents from the city. The confrontation could test the relationship between the two leaders, which had appeared surprisingly cordial despite their political differences.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-7-7-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-panama-tsunami-warning-issued-1791573774578">Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued</a><h2>Video raises questions about the Bronx shooting</h2>Video footage of the incident, shared by US media on Friday, appears to show a plainclothes federal agent approaching a silver car with a firearm drawn. The vehicle briefly reverses as the agent strikes the driver's-side window. A second plainclothes officer then draws a weapon and points it toward the driver as the car moves forward and out of view.The vehicle appears to collide with the side of another passing vehicle before disappearing from the footage. The video has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding the shooting. However, the footage alone does not establish every detail of the encounter or independently resolve the competing accounts provided by officials.<h2>Homeland security officials defend ICE officers</h2>Mullin said Bergal had an extensive criminal history and was attempting to evade arrest during the operation. "He came to this country legally a few years ago, and ever since he's come in, he's committed crime and crime after crime," the Homeland Security secretary said. Mullin added that ICE officers did not know a child was inside the vehicle when they opened fire. Marcos Charles, a senior ICE official, said Bergal had "refused lawful orders to exit his vehicle."&nbsp;Charles alleged that the driver accelerated and struck two government vehicles before moving toward other officers. "He then accelerated his vehicle, smashing into two of our government ICE vehicles, and then weaponized his vehicle and proceeded to accelerate, going towards other officers," Charles said. "Our officers, using their training, and believing that their life and the lives of their partners and general public were in danger, used their training and fired weapons," he said. The statements represent the federal authorities' account of the incident. Further evidence and independent investigation would be needed to establish the full sequence of events.<h2>ICE shooting incidents fuel wider immigration debate</h2>The Bronx shooting comes amid growing scrutiny of ICE operations and the use of force by federal immigration agents. Officers have frequently operated in civilian clothing, sometimes with their faces covered, during immigration enforcement actions. Several other shootings involving immigration or federal agents have drawn national attention during Trump's second term.&nbsp;In March 2025, 23-year-old Ruben Ray Martinez was shot by ICE in an incident that the Texas Tribune described as the first known killing of an American by immigration agents during Trump's second term. In another case, Mexican national Lorenzo Salgado died in July after being shot by an ICE officer in Houston, Texas. Two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were also shot and killed by federal immigration agents in separate incidents in Minnesota during an enforcement crackdown targeting undocumented migrants earlier this year.&nbsp;These incidents have intensified debate over federal immigration policy, law enforcement accountability and the use of deadly force during immigration operations. The latest shooting in New York has added to those tensions, bringing protesters onto Manhattan's streets and deepening the political dispute between city officials and the Trump administration. As questions remain about the circumstances of Bergal's shooting, the incident is likely to fuel further calls for scrutiny of ICE's tactics and the federal government's immigration enforcement strategy.

Protests erupt in New York after ICE officers shoot Dominican man Oscar Bergal in the Bronx, intensifying the clash between Zohran Mamdani and Trump

Hundreds of protesters gathered in New York City on Friday following a shooting involving US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers that wounded a Dominican man in the Bronx. The incident has intensified tensions between Democratic Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the administration of President Donald Trump over federal immigration enforcement. Oscar Bergal, 28, was shot in the neck during an ICE operation on Thursday. A five-year-old child who was inside his vehicle at the time was physically unharmed, according to the initial reports. The shooting triggered a sharp political response from Mamdani, who posted the words "Abolish ICE" on X. The slogan is widely used by opponents of Trump's immigration crackdown, who have called for the federal agency to be dismantled. US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin strongly criticized the mayor's statement, arguing that it could increase hostility toward immigration officers. "Mayor, if you abolish ICE, who's going to take criminals off the streets of your own town?" Mullin said. “Who's going to take the murderers and the thieves and the gangbangers?” Mullin also described Mamdani's remarks as "dangerous and incite hostility." Hundreds protest against ICE in Manhattan An AFP journalist reported seeing hundreds of demonstrators marching across several blocks in Manhattan on Friday, chanting slogans including "No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here" and “No ICE.” New York City, a Democratic stronghold, is among several US cities that restrict local police from assisting federal authorities with immigration enforcement. Following Thursday's shooting, Mamdani said he was seeking a conversation with Trump and intended to demand the withdrawal of federal immigration agents from the city. The confrontation could test the relationship between the two leaders, which had appeared surprisingly cordial despite their political differences. Also Read: Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued Video raises questions about the Bronx shooting Video footage of the incident, shared by US media on Friday, appears to show a plainclothes federal agent approaching a silver car with a firearm drawn. The vehicle briefly reverses as the agent strikes the driver's-side window. A second plainclothes officer then draws a weapon and points it toward the driver as the car moves forward and out of view. The vehicle appears to collide with the side of another passing vehicle before disappearing from the footage. The video has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding the shooting. However, the footage alone does not establish every detail of the encounter or independently resolve the competing accounts provided by officials. Homeland security officials defend ICE officers Mullin said Bergal had an extensive criminal history and was attempting to evade arrest during the operation. "He came to this country legally a few years ago, and ever since he's come in, he's committed crime and crime after crime," the Homeland Security secretary said. Mullin added that ICE officers did not know a child was inside the vehicle when they opened fire. Marcos Charles, a senior ICE official, said Bergal had "refused lawful orders to exit his vehicle." Charles alleged that the driver accelerated and struck two government vehicles before moving toward other officers. "He then accelerated his vehicle, smashing into two of our government ICE vehicles, and then weaponized his vehicle and proceeded to accelerate, going towards other officers," Charles said. "Our officers, using their training, and believing that their life and the lives of their partners and general public were in danger, used their training and fired weapons," he said. The statements represent the federal authorities' account of the incident. Further evidence and independent investigation would be needed to establish the full sequence of events. ICE shooting incidents fuel wider immigration debate The Bronx shooting comes amid growing scrutiny of ICE operations and the use of force by federal immigration agents. Officers have frequently operated in civilian clothing, sometimes with their faces covered, during immigration enforcement actions. Several other shootings involving immigration or federal agents have drawn national attention during Trump's second term. In March 2025, 23-year-old Ruben Ray Martinez was shot by ICE in an incident that the Texas Tribune described as the first known killing of an American by immigration agents during Trump's second term. In another case, Mexican national Lorenzo Salgado died in July after being shot by an ICE officer in Houston, Texas. Two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were also shot and killed by federal immigration agents in separate incidents in Minnesota during an enforcement crackdown targeting undocumented migrants earlier this year. These incidents have intensified debate over federal immigration policy, law enforcement accountability and the use of deadly force during immigration operations. The latest shooting in New York has added to those tensions, bringing protesters onto Manhattan's streets and deepening the political dispute between city officials and the Trump administration. As questions remain about the circumstances of Bergal's shooting, the incident is likely to fuel further calls for scrutiny of ICE's tactics and the federal government's immigration enforcement strategy.

New York protesters condemn ICE after a Dominican man is shot in the Bronx, escalating tensions between Mayor Mamdani and Trump's administration

New York protests erupt as Trump administration defends ICE shooting

US President Donald Trump has offered conservative commentator Katie Zacharia the position of White House press secretary, an administration official told news agency AFP on Friday. However, it remains unclear whether Zacharia has accepted the offer. The official confirmed that Zacharia, a lawyer and communications adviser to Trump's media company, had been offered the high-profile role, which is among the most visible communications positions in the US government. If she accepts the position, Zacharia would succeed Karoline Leavitt, who stepped down in August after becoming one of the most recognizable public faces of Trump's second administration.<h2>Who is Katie Zacharia?</h2>Zacharia currently serves as a senior communications adviser to Trump Media and Technology Group, the company that operates the president's Truth Social platform, according to her LinkedIn profile. She is also a familiar face on conservative television networks, including Fox News and Newsmax, where she regularly comments on political and current affairs issues.&nbsp;Earlier this year, Zacharia briefly served as a spokeswoman for former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. She joined the Department of Homeland Security earlier in the year but left after approximately two months, according to her LinkedIn profile. Based in California, Zacharia has also worked with Fix California, a conservative advocacy organization founded by Richard Grenell, a longtime Trump ally who has served as one of the president's special envoys. According to CNBC, Zacharia serves as the organization's general counsel. Fix California seeks to advance conservative political causes in the traditionally Democratic-leaning state. Zacharia graduated from Pepperdine University's law school and began her career in Republican politics. CNN reported that she worked as an intern for the Republican National Committee in 2006.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-7-7-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-panama-tsunami-warning-issued-1791573774578">Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued</a><h2>Trump consulted allies before making an offer</h2>The New York Times first reported Zacharia's selection on Friday, citing two people familiar with the decision. According to CNN, Trump consulted several allies and advisers before offering her the position. Those consulted reportedly included Leavitt, who previously served as his press secretary during the 2024 presidential campaign. The White House press secretary plays a central role in communicating the administration's policies and positions to the public. The job involves conducting regular briefings with journalists, answering questions about government decisions and defending the president's policies against criticism. The position also serves as a key link between the president and the national and international media.<h3>Karoline Leavitt's departure and next move</h3>Leavitt became White House press secretary when Trump returned to the presidency in January 2025. At 27, she became the youngest person ever to hold the position. A staunch Trump supporter, Leavitt had previously served as press secretary for his 2024 presidential campaign and emerged as a prominent defender of his administration during White House briefings.&nbsp;She left the administration in late August following the birth of her second child. Trump said at the time that Leavitt wanted to spend more time with her family and would continue to serve as an outside adviser. Fox News announced this week that Leavitt would join the conservative television network as an on-air contributor beginning in November. If Zacharia accepts Trump's offer, her appointment would mark a new chapter in the White House communications team as the administration continues to shape its messaging and media strategy. As of Friday's initial reports, confirmation of Zacharia's acceptance had not been announced.

Donald Trump offers Katie Zacharia the White House press secretary job. Learn about her career, Karoline Leavitt's departure and her move to Fox News

US President Donald Trump has offered conservative commentator Katie Zacharia the position of White House press secretary, an administration official told news agency AFP on Friday. However, it remains unclear whether Zacharia has accepted the offer. The official confirmed that Zacharia, a lawyer and communications adviser to Trump's media company, had been offered the high-profile role, which is among the most visible communications positions in the US government. If she accepts the position, Zacharia would succeed Karoline Leavitt, who stepped down in August after becoming one of the most recognizable public faces of Trump's second administration. Who is Katie Zacharia? Zacharia currently serves as a senior communications adviser to Trump Media and Technology Group, the company that operates the president's Truth Social platform, according to her LinkedIn profile. She is also a familiar face on conservative television networks, including Fox News and Newsmax, where she regularly comments on political and current affairs issues. Earlier this year, Zacharia briefly served as a spokeswoman for former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. She joined the Department of Homeland Security earlier in the year but left after approximately two months, according to her LinkedIn profile. Based in California, Zacharia has also worked with Fix California, a conservative advocacy organization founded by Richard Grenell, a longtime Trump ally who has served as one of the president's special envoys. According to CNBC, Zacharia serves as the organization's general counsel. Fix California seeks to advance conservative political causes in the traditionally Democratic-leaning state. Zacharia graduated from Pepperdine University's law school and began her career in Republican politics. CNN reported that she worked as an intern for the Republican National Committee in 2006. Also Read: Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued Trump consulted allies before making an offer The New York Times first reported Zacharia's selection on Friday, citing two people familiar with the decision. According to CNN, Trump consulted several allies and advisers before offering her the position. Those consulted reportedly included Leavitt, who previously served as his press secretary during the 2024 presidential campaign. The White House press secretary plays a central role in communicating the administration's policies and positions to the public. The job involves conducting regular briefings with journalists, answering questions about government decisions and defending the president's policies against criticism. The position also serves as a key link between the president and the national and international media. Karoline Leavitt's departure and next move Leavitt became White House press secretary when Trump returned to the presidency in January 2025. At 27, she became the youngest person ever to hold the position. A staunch Trump supporter, Leavitt had previously served as press secretary for his 2024 presidential campaign and emerged as a prominent defender of his administration during White House briefings. She left the administration in late August following the birth of her second child. Trump said at the time that Leavitt wanted to spend more time with her family and would continue to serve as an outside adviser. Fox News announced this week that Leavitt would join the conservative television network as an on-air contributor beginning in November. If Zacharia accepts Trump's offer, her appointment would mark a new chapter in the White House communications team as the administration continues to shape its messaging and media strategy. As of Friday's initial reports, confirmation of Zacharia's acceptance had not been announced.

Donald Trump offers conservative commentator Katie Zacharia the White House press secretary role as Karoline Leavitt prepares to join Fox News

Katie Zacharia likely to succeed Karoline Leavitt as Trump's White House press secretary

A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.7 has struck Panama, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), raising concerns about structural damage, potential casualties and possible tsunami waves along the country's coastline. Local media have reported structural damage in several parts of the country. The USGS warned that some casualties were possible and extensive damage was probable.&nbsp;Panamanian President José Raul Mulino urged the public to remain calm and instructed the country's minister of government to provide updates on the earthquake's impact. Several aftershocks were reported near the epicenter, including a powerful magnitude-6 tremor. The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 12 kilometers, a factor that could intensify ground shaking and increase the potential for damage. The tremor was felt across Panama, a Central American nation with a population of around 4.5 million, according to the USGS.&nbsp;Although no casualties had been reported at the time of the initial updates, authorities and observers anticipated potentially extensive damage, particularly in the central parts of the country. In Panama City, located approximately 200 kilometers from the epicenter, many people evacuated buildings as a precaution, according to observations by AFP.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/uk-navy-hit-by-espionage-scandal-sailor-accused-of-spying-for-russia-1791571510613">UK navy hit by espionage scandal: Sailor accused of spying for Russia</a><h2>Tsunami warning raises coastal concerns</h2>The US Tsunami Warning System warned that tsunami waves reaching up to three meters could strike Panama's coastline in the coming hours. The potential threat extended beyond Panama. Ecuador, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Peru were also identified as countries that could experience less intense tsunami waves. Authorities and coastal communities faced growing concerns over the possibility of additional seismic activity and the impact of the earthquake on vulnerable areas.<h2>Earthquakes relatively uncommon in Panama</h2>Earthquakes are relatively rare in Panama compared with some other parts of Latin America. When seismic events occur, they are more commonly associated with the western province of Chiriquí. The earthquake adds to a year marked by powerful seismic events across Latin America. During the summer, Venezuela experienced two major earthquakes that, according to the initial report, killed more than 6,400 people. Colombia was also struck by a tremor that reportedly left around 300 people dead. The full extent of the damage in Panama, the potential casualties and the impact of the reported tsunami threat remained unclear as the initial reports emerged.

A preliminary 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, prompting evacuations, reports of structural damage, powerful aftershocks and tsunami warnings

A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.7 has struck Panama, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), raising concerns about structural damage, potential casualties and possible tsunami waves along the country's coastline. Local media have reported structural damage in several parts of the country. The USGS warned that some casualties were possible and extensive damage was probable. Panamanian President José Raul Mulino urged the public to remain calm and instructed the country's minister of government to provide updates on the earthquake's impact. Several aftershocks were reported near the epicenter, including a powerful magnitude-6 tremor. The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 12 kilometers, a factor that could intensify ground shaking and increase the potential for damage. The tremor was felt across Panama, a Central American nation with a population of around 4.5 million, according to the USGS. Although no casualties had been reported at the time of the initial updates, authorities and observers anticipated potentially extensive damage, particularly in the central parts of the country. In Panama City, located approximately 200 kilometers from the epicenter, many people evacuated buildings as a precaution, according to observations by AFP. Also Read: UK navy hit by espionage scandal: Sailor accused of spying for Russia Tsunami warning raises coastal concerns The US Tsunami Warning System warned that tsunami waves reaching up to three meters could strike Panama's coastline in the coming hours. The potential threat extended beyond Panama. Ecuador, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Peru were also identified as countries that could experience less intense tsunami waves. Authorities and coastal communities faced growing concerns over the possibility of additional seismic activity and the impact of the earthquake on vulnerable areas. Earthquakes relatively uncommon in Panama Earthquakes are relatively rare in Panama compared with some other parts of Latin America. When seismic events occur, they are more commonly associated with the western province of Chiriquí. The earthquake adds to a year marked by powerful seismic events across Latin America. During the summer, Venezuela experienced two major earthquakes that, according to the initial report, killed more than 6,400 people. Colombia was also struck by a tremor that reportedly left around 300 people dead. The full extent of the damage in Panama, the potential casualties and the impact of the reported tsunami threat remained unclear as the initial reports emerged.

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, triggering aftershocks, reports of structural damage and warnings of possible tsunami waves

Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued

Amid growing concerns over hybrid warfare, dark web is fast emerging as the breeding ground for espionage. This scenario has now unfolded in UK with a serving navy sailor, being arrested on charges of preparing to spy for Russia Let's break this down for you. After joining the Royal Navy in April 2024, 24-year-old Teddy Young was working in naval intelligence. According to the prosecution though, he misused his high-level security clearance to access defence and intelligence data since his first deployment on a navy vessel, which began in November 2024.&nbsp;According to reports, he drafted a message in Russian containing classified information and tried to make direct contact with Russian authorities through dark web. He is also accused of breaking royal navy rules by copying information to a private email account. The prosecution has alleged that his subversive activities continued till May 2025. Young, was produced before the Westminster magistrate's court, and remanded to police custody until October 16. As he has been charged with retaining protected information, under UK's National Security Act of 2023, the sailor faces life imprisonment if convicted. While the UK navy refused to comment on the arrest citing ongoing legal proceedings, the conservative party said that the allegations, should lead to a fresh diplomatic crackdown on Moscow.

https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-navy-hit-by-espionage-scandal-sailor-accused-of-spying-for-russia-1791565510910/embed

Conservative MP Alicia Kearns, who is also the shadow minister for the UK home office, termed Russia a 'terrorist' state. She said and I am quoting her, “Nothing makes war more likely than, when an aggressor state feels it can continue, to be reckless and attack us, consequence-free." Now, the police have made it clear that, this arrest was not related to the recent incident in which suspicious activity was, reported near the RAF Fairford BASE. While seven men have been arrested in This case, they were later released on bail.&nbsp;&nbsp;UK witnessed another security scare, As two Latvian men were arrested after breaching a fence at the RAF Molesworth Base, According to reports, this base houses not only America's intelligence operation centres for Europe and Africa, but also serves as a NATO intelligence hub. The arrested men have been charged for entering a prohibited place, under the country's national security act. Reacting to this, UK's defence ministry affirmed that it remained highly vigilant to potential threats against defence sites, and is working closely with allies to keep them secure. According to reports, the police are now investigating, whether Russia was behind this incident.

UK navy sailor Teddy Young faces charges under the National Security Act 2023 over alleged Russian espionage, amid RAF base security breaches

Amid growing concerns over hybrid warfare, dark web is fast emerging as the breeding ground for espionage. This scenario has now unfolded in UK with a serving navy sailor, being arrested on charges of preparing to spy for Russia Let's break this down for you. After joining the Royal Navy in April 2024, 24-year-old Teddy Young was working in naval intelligence. According to the prosecution though, he misused his high-level security clearance to access defence and intelligence data since his first deployment on a navy vessel, which began in November 2024. According to reports, he drafted a message in Russian containing classified information and tried to make direct contact with Russian authorities through dark web. He is also accused of breaking royal navy rules by copying information to a private email account. The prosecution has alleged that his subversive activities continued till May 2025. Young, was produced before the Westminster magistrate's court, and remanded to police custody until October 16. As he has been charged with retaining protected information, under UK's National Security Act of 2023, the sailor faces life imprisonment if convicted. While the UK navy refused to comment on the arrest citing ongoing legal proceedings, the conservative party said that the allegations, should lead to a fresh diplomatic crackdown on Moscow.

UK navy sailor Teddy Young faces espionage charges over alleged Russia links as separate RAF base security breaches raise fresh concerns

UK navy hit by espionage scandal: Sailor accused of spying for Russia | Gravitas

Even as Yemeni government forces have mounted a counter-offensive against the Houthis, the Iran-backed group continues to directly attack Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;On the other hand, the much-touted Mecca pact is crumbling. Take a look at these visuals.Smoke was seen rising from a stationary aircraft at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which was once again attacked by the Houthis.&nbsp;According to Saudi Arabia's civil aviation authority, three Saudi nationals, including a pilot, were killed, while several people of different nationalities were wounded. It also confirmed that an aircraft belonging to national carrier Saudia was damaged in the strikes.&nbsp;While the Houthis also claimed to have attacked Najran airport as well as the airbase in Khamis Mushait, Riyadh is yet to confirm the attack on Najran airport.&nbsp;In the previous round of airport strikes by the Houthis, three people had died, and 36 others were injured.&nbsp;This is not all. According to the Iran-backed group, it caused dozens of casualties by launching ballistic missiles at several weapons storage sites. It also claimed to have shot down a Saudi armed reconnaissance drone in the province of Taiz.&nbsp;On the other hand, Saudi-backed Yemeni forces said they had destroyed three rocket launch platforms used by the Houthis. They have also reportedly launched an operation to take back control of the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait.&nbsp;Amid this, the Mecca pact signed by Türkiye, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in September is facing serious scrutiny.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/real-boss-of-india-elon-musk-escalates-attack-over-starlink-s-india-entry-1791566088852">‘Real boss of India’: Elon Musk escalates attack over Starlink’s India entry</a>&nbsp; For instance, Türkiye categorically ruled out sending troops to fight the Houthis and maintained that it was still exploring the extent of its assistance to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;Similarly, Pakistan also affirmed that its military personnel would not enter Yemen to fight the Houthis. At the same time, it conceded that a substantial number of Pakistani forces were already deployed in Saudi Arabia in a defensive capacity.&nbsp;According to reports, Saudi Arabia has reportedly decided not to agree to a ceasefire with the Houthis until the Yemeni government regains all the territory it has lost in recent weeks.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the war is having drastic consequences on the ground in Yemen. Around 200,000 people remain displaced; there has been an increase in cholera and malnutrition cases, and access to trauma care and hospitals remains limited.

The Houthis continue to attack Saudi targets as Yemeni government forces launch a counter-offensive, while Türkiye and Pakistan rule out sending troops to Yemen amid growing scrutiny of the Mecca pact and worsening humanitarian conditions.

Even as Yemeni government forces have mounted a counter-offensive against the Houthis, the Iran-backed group continues to directly attack Saudi Arabia. On the other hand, the much-touted Mecca pact is crumbling. Take a look at these visuals. Smoke was seen rising from a stationary aircraft at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which was once again attacked by the Houthis. According to Saudi Arabia's civil aviation authority, three Saudi nationals, including a pilot, were killed, while several people of different nationalities were wounded. It also confirmed that an aircraft belonging to national carrier Saudia was damaged in the strikes. While the Houthis also claimed to have attacked Najran airport as well as the airbase in Khamis Mushait, Riyadh is yet to confirm the attack on Najran airport. In the previous round of airport strikes by the Houthis, three people had died, and 36 others were injured. This is not all. According to the Iran-backed group, it caused dozens of casualties by launching ballistic missiles at several weapons storage sites. It also claimed to have shot down a Saudi armed reconnaissance drone in the province of Taiz. On the other hand, Saudi-backed Yemeni forces said they had destroyed three rocket launch platforms used by the Houthis. They have also reportedly launched an operation to take back control of the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Amid this, the Mecca pact signed by Türkiye, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in September is facing serious scrutiny. Also Read: ‘Real boss of India’: Elon Musk escalates attack over Starlink’s India entry For instance, Türkiye categorically ruled out sending troops to fight the Houthis and maintained that it was still exploring the extent of its assistance to Saudi Arabia. Similarly, Pakistan also affirmed that its military personnel would not enter Yemen to fight the Houthis. At the same time, it conceded that a substantial number of Pakistani forces were already deployed in Saudi Arabia in a defensive capacity. According to reports, Saudi Arabia has reportedly decided not to agree to a ceasefire with the Houthis until the Yemeni government regains all the territory it has lost in recent weeks. Meanwhile, the war is having drastic consequences on the ground in Yemen. Around 200,000 people remain displaced; there has been an increase in cholera and malnutrition cases, and access to trauma care and hospitals remains limited.

The Houthis continue to attack Saudi targets as Yemeni government forces launch a counter-offensive, while Türkiye and Pakistan rule out sending troops to Yemen amid growing scrutiny of the Mecca pact and worsening humanitarian conditions.

Houthis continue direct hits on Saudi targets, Türkiye and Pakistan missing in action | Gravitas

As Democrats look to make gains in the November 3 US midterm elections, two phrases have become part of the political conversation: a “blue wave” and a “blue tsunami”. Both point to the same possibility – a strong Democratic performance – but they suggest very different scales of victory.For President Donald Trump and Republicans, the difference could be crucial. A Democratic victory could shift control of Congress and make the remaining two years of Trump’s term considerably harder.<h2>A ‘blue wave’ is more than a routine win</h2>In US politics, blue is associated with the Democratic Party. A “blue wave” describes an election in which Democrats win seats in significant numbers, often overturning Republican-held districts and gaining ground beyond their traditional strongholds.The phrase does not have a fixed numerical definition. Its meaning depends on the scale of the gains and what they deliver. If Democrats win control of the House of Representatives, for instance, they could gain the power to block Republican legislation, scrutinise the administration and launch congressional investigations.That would leave Trump facing a Congress less willing to back his agenda.<h2>When does a wave become a tsunami?</h2>A “blue tsunami” suggests a much bigger electoral swing. It is used when Democratic gains are so extensive that they go well beyond what political observers expected, potentially putting even relatively safe Republican seats at risk.There is no official seat count that turns a blue wave into a blue tsunami. The distinction is largely rhetorical, with “tsunami” conveying the scale and force of an unexpected political backlash.Such an outcome would be particularly damaging for Republicans if Democrats captured both chambers of Congress rather than just the House.<h2>What is at stake for Trump?</h2>All 435 seats in the House are up for election, alongside 35 Senate seats in 2026. The two contests will determine whether Republicans retain control of Congress or Democrats gain the power to challenge the president more directly.The economy, particularly the cost of living, could weigh on voters’ decisions. Midterm elections often serve as a referendum on the party occupying the White House, although local candidates and issues also matter.For Democrats, a wave would mean a substantial breakthrough. A tsunami would signal something bigger: a rejection of Republicans on a scale that could reshape the balance of power in Washington.

A ‘blue wave’ or ‘blue tsunami’ could reshape the US Congress in November. The terms describe the scale of potential Democratic gains and the political challenge they could pose for Trump.

As Democrats look to make gains in the November 3 US midterm elections, two phrases have become part of the political conversation: a “blue wave” and a “blue tsunami”. Both point to the same possibility – a strong Democratic performance – but they suggest very different scales of victory. For President Donald Trump and Republicans, the difference could be crucial. A Democratic victory could shift control of Congress and make the remaining two years of Trump’s term considerably harder. A ‘blue wave’ is more than a routine win In US politics, blue is associated with the Democratic Party. A “blue wave” describes an election in which Democrats win seats in significant numbers, often overturning Republican-held districts and gaining ground beyond their traditional strongholds. The phrase does not have a fixed numerical definition. Its meaning depends on the scale of the gains and what they deliver. If Democrats win control of the House of Representatives, for instance, they could gain the power to block Republican legislation, scrutinise the administration and launch congressional investigations. That would leave Trump facing a Congress less willing to back his agenda. When does a wave become a tsunami? A “blue tsunami” suggests a much bigger electoral swing. It is used when Democratic gains are so extensive that they go well beyond what political observers expected, potentially putting even relatively safe Republican seats at risk. There is no official seat count that turns a blue wave into a blue tsunami. The distinction is largely rhetorical, with “tsunami” conveying the scale and force of an unexpected political backlash. Such an outcome would be particularly damaging for Republicans if Democrats captured both chambers of Congress rather than just the House. What is at stake for Trump? All 435 seats in the House are up for election, alongside 35 Senate seats in 2026. The two contests will determine whether Republicans retain control of Congress or Democrats gain the power to challenge the president more directly. The economy, particularly the cost of living, could weigh on voters’ decisions. Midterm elections often serve as a referendum on the party occupying the White House, although local candidates and issues also matter. For Democrats, a wave would mean a substantial breakthrough. A tsunami would signal something bigger: a rejection of Republicans on a scale that could reshape the balance of power in Washington.

A ‘blue wave’ or ‘blue tsunami’ could reshape the US Congress in November. The terms describe the scale of potential Democratic gains and the political challenge they could pose for Trump.

US midterm elections 2026: What a blue wave or blue tsunami could mean for Trump

Orkut's founder Orkut Büyükkökten has called for the internet to be rebuilt around real people and invited the public to join a movement on Orkut. In an open letter, he said he created some of the earliest social networks more than two decades ago and has watched social media go wrong. He described the work of his life as more urgent than he ever imagined.&nbsp;He blamed the decline on two decades of optimising for user attention. Feeds, he said, were designed around engagement and not connection, and a generation of children was handed to algorithms that addicted and divided them and sold them to advertisers. "No surprise that they grew up lonely and anxious," he wrote.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narrative-communication-beyond-social-media-views-and-impressions-1785040523333">Narrative communication: Beyond social media views and impressions</a>&nbsp;The founder said he still loves the industry but despairs at what it has become, adding that things are now broken. He said artificial intelligence is extraordinary technology but is undermining the premise that made social networking worth building: that a real person was on the other side. He cited bots, AI-generated slop, deepfakes, rogue agents and synthetic content.&nbsp;Recalling Orkut, he said users most often miss its communities, such as people who repaired the same motorcycle, rode the same bus route or disliked Mondays. "In a feed you're an audience, in a community you're a member," he wrote.&nbsp;He argued that AI cannot create joy, hope, gratitude, wonder, amusement, inspiration or love, which he said make life worth living. He said he arrived in the world alone and with nothing, and that everything he has since gained came from love.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-science-behind-why-you-keep-scrolling-and-how-it-rewires-your-brain-1781455009989">The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain</a>&nbsp;He outlined a different future for the internet, built around real people with a human on the other side of every message, and not around algorithms, eyeballs or time-on-site. He said the next generation deserves communities that reward kindness, curiosity, friendship, trust and connection.&nbsp;The founder said the way forward is to rebuild the internet people first loved, with authentic people and genuine belonging, but that he cannot do it alone. He asked readers to visit <a href="http://orkut.com/">orkut.com</a> and add their names, then send a supporter card to one person they want with them and explain why.&nbsp;"An algorithm can't make life worth living. But a friend can. A community can," he wrote, calling on people to stop optimising for attention and start optimising for each other.

Orkut founder Orkut Büyükkökten has penned an open letter inviting users to orkut.com to rebuild a human-centered internet, warning against AI bots, feed addiction, and algorithm-driven loneliness.

Orkut's founder Orkut Büyükkökten has called for the internet to be rebuilt around real people and invited the public to join a movement on Orkut. In an open letter, he said he created some of the earliest social networks more than two decades ago and has watched social media go wrong. He described the work of his life as more urgent than he ever imagined. He blamed the decline on two decades of optimising for user attention. Feeds, he said, were designed around engagement and not connection, and a generation of children was handed to algorithms that addicted and divided them and sold them to advertisers. "No surprise that they grew up lonely and anxious," he wrote. Also read: Narrative communication: Beyond social media views and impressions The founder said he still loves the industry but despairs at what it has become, adding that things are now broken. He said artificial intelligence is extraordinary technology but is undermining the premise that made social networking worth building: that a real person was on the other side. He cited bots, AI-generated slop, deepfakes, rogue agents and synthetic content. Recalling Orkut, he said users most often miss its communities, such as people who repaired the same motorcycle, rode the same bus route or disliked Mondays. "In a feed you're an audience, in a community you're a member," he wrote. He argued that AI cannot create joy, hope, gratitude, wonder, amusement, inspiration or love, which he said make life worth living. He said he arrived in the world alone and with nothing, and that everything he has since gained came from love. Also read: The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain He outlined a different future for the internet, built around real people with a human on the other side of every message, and not around algorithms, eyeballs or time-on-site. He said the next generation deserves communities that reward kindness, curiosity, friendship, trust and connection. The founder said the way forward is to rebuild the internet people first loved, with authentic people and genuine belonging, but that he cannot do it alone. He asked readers to visit orkut.com and add their names, then send a supporter card to one person they want with them and explain why. "An algorithm can't make life worth living. But a friend can. A community can," he wrote, calling on people to stop optimising for attention and start optimising for each other.

Orkut founder Orkut Büyükkökten has penned an open letter inviting users to orkut.com to rebuild a human-centered internet, warning against AI bots, feed addiction, and algorithm-driven loneliness.

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