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24-year-old Sri Lankan Anojan Sivarasa embarked on his career barely a year ago, as he moved to Saudi Arabia to work as a technical engineer at a battery factory.In a shocking turn of events, he now faces execution for posting an alleged blasphemous comment on Facebook.The case has sent shockwaves across Sri Lanka and sparked widespread concern, with multiple political parties, civil society groups and religious leaders seeking clemency for the young Hindu man.Let's break this down further for you.His ordeal started in June with a viral video showing a Muslim man kicking a stray dog accompanying Hindu pilgrims. This sparked a debate online.After a user allegedly posted derogatory remarks about a Hindu deity, Anojan posted a response in Tamil, which was deemed insulting to Prophet Mohammed.While he subsequently deleted the comment and even posted a video apology expressing remorse, some users took a screenshot of his comment and sent it to his employers.After being arrested in July, he was prosecuted within weeks and sentenced to five years in jail and fined eight hundred thousand US dollars under the country's cybercrime law.However, the prosecutors filed an appeal, seeking Anojan to be tried under Sharia law.Less than two months later, he was sentenced to death.While Saudi officials are yet to announce a timeline for his execution, his parents have not received any update about their son since September 28.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/24-year-old-sri-lankan-man-sentenced-to-death-for-blasphemy-in-saudi-1791479159383/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/24-year-old-sri-lankan-man-sentenced-to-death-for-blasphemy-in-saudi-1791479159383/embed</a>On its part, the Sri Lankan government has reportedly assured his family that it would leave no stone unturned to obtain a pardon for Anojan.The country's Foreign Minister Vijetha Herath revealed that a parliamentary delegation would soon travel to Riyadh, with a clemency appeal from the president himself.At the same time, Sri Lankan officials are also working with two legal teams in Saudi Arabia to overturn the death penalty.Additionally, six minority lawmakers have written to the Saudi foreign minister, seeking clemency for the 24-year-old man.Now, Amnesty International has also taken up this matter.It urged Saudi Arabia's government to overturn Anojan's death penalty and immediately release him, citing his right to freedom of expression.The organisation said, and I am quoting it, "Saudi authorities should immediately establish a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, as a first move towards its full abolition."Now, this case also assumes significance in the wake of Saudi Arabia's human rights record.According to Amnesty International, Saudi Arabia is the third-highest executioner after China and Iran.Last year alone, it carried out a record 356 executions.Until July 2026, at least 175 more people have been put to death. This includes 94 foreign nationals from over twenty countries.This raises a larger question.Can a mere social media post justify a punishment as drastic as the death penalty?With his parents pleading for mercy, all eyes are now on Saudi Arabia's next course of action.

After being arrested in July, he was prosecuted within weeks and sentenced to five years in jail and fined eight hundred thousand US dollars under the country's cybercrime law.

24-year-old Sri Lankan Anojan Sivarasa embarked on his career barely a year ago, as he moved to Saudi Arabia to work as a technical engineer at a battery factory. In a shocking turn of events, he now faces execution for posting an alleged blasphemous comment on Facebook. The case has sent shockwaves across Sri Lanka and sparked widespread concern, with multiple political parties, civil society groups and religious leaders seeking clemency for the young Hindu man. Let's break this down further for you. His ordeal started in June with a viral video showing a Muslim man kicking a stray dog accompanying Hindu pilgrims. This sparked a debate online. After a user allegedly posted derogatory remarks about a Hindu deity, Anojan posted a response in Tamil, which was deemed insulting to Prophet Mohammed. While he subsequently deleted the comment and even posted a video apology expressing remorse, some users took a screenshot of his comment and sent it to his employers. After being arrested in July, he was prosecuted within weeks and sentenced to five years in jail and fined eight hundred thousand US dollars under the country's cybercrime law. However, the prosecutors filed an appeal, seeking Anojan to be tried under Sharia law. Less than two months later, he was sentenced to death. While Saudi officials are yet to announce a timeline for his execution, his parents have not received any update about their son since September 28. https://www.wionews.com/videos/24-year-old-sri-lankan-man-sentenced-to-death-for-blasphemy-in-saudi-1791479159383/embed On its part, the Sri Lankan government has reportedly assured his family that it would leave no stone unturned to obtain a pardon for Anojan. The country's Foreign Minister Vijetha Herath revealed that a parliamentary delegation would soon travel to Riyadh, with a clemency appeal from the president himself. At the same time, Sri Lankan officials are also working with two legal teams in Saudi Arabia to overturn the death penalty. Additionally, six minority lawmakers have written to the Saudi foreign minister, seeking clemency for the 24-year-old man. Now, Amnesty International has also taken up this matter. It urged Saudi Arabia's government to overturn Anojan's death penalty and immediately release him, citing his right to freedom of expression. The organisation said, and I am quoting it, "Saudi authorities should immediately establish a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, as a first move towards its full abolition." Now, this case also assumes significance in the wake of Saudi Arabia's human rights record. According to Amnesty International, Saudi Arabia is the third-highest executioner after China and Iran. Last year alone, it carried out a record 356 executions. Until July 2026, at least 175 more people have been put to death. This includes 94 foreign nationals from over twenty countries. This raises a larger question. Can a mere social media post justify a punishment as drastic as the death penalty? With his parents pleading for mercy, all eyes are now on Saudi Arabia's next course of action.

After being arrested in July, he was prosecuted within weeks and sentenced to five years in jail and fined eight hundred thousand US dollars under the country's cybercrime law.

24-year-old Sri Lankan man sentenced to death for blasphemy in Saudi Arabia

Russia-Ukraine war intensifies with deadly strikes in Pryluky and Kramatorsk, fresh drone barrages across Ukraine and a fire at a Yandex data centre in Russia.

Russia-Ukraine war intensifies with deadly strikes in Pryluky and Kramatorsk, fresh drone barrages across Ukraine and a fire at a Yandex data centre in Russia.

From Kramatorsk buses to Yandex fire: Russia-Ukraine war in the last 48 hours

At least one aircraft at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport was severely damaged after Yemen’s Houthis launched strikes on Saudi capital on Thursday (Oct 8), according to reports. This comes amid renewed tensions as an Iran-backed group launched attacks at airports in the country. The attacks have also disrupted flight operations as several airlines cancelled flights to Riyadh. Many countries, including India and the United States, have also urged their nationals to stay vigilant.A source briefed on the matter told AFP that an aircraft suffered “catastrophic damage”, while another said three planes were hit. The reports came after multiple explosions were heard across Riyadh.<h2>Houthi attacks target Riyadh</h2>Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the group carried out three separate attacks targeting Riyadh airport. He also said missiles were launched towards an airport in Najran and an airbase in Khamis Mushait.The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted two missiles fired towards Riyadh. However, debris from the interceptions caused damage elsewhere in the capital. Saudi Arabia’s civil defence agency said “interception debris” struck a kindergarten and a medical complex. It did not immediately provide details on the extent of the damage or report casualties.The Houthis have repeatedly targeted Saudi Arabia since the wider Middle East war intensified. Their latest attacks have also increasingly focused on critical infrastructure, including oil facilities.<h2>Flights disrupted, residents told to take precautions</h2>The attacks caused significant disruption at Riyadh airport, with numerous flights delayed or cancelled, according to information displayed at the facility.The airport itself had not confirmed the reported damage, advising passengers to contact their airlines before travelling.Diplomats in Riyadh were instructed to shelter in place at their respective embassies after explosions echoed through the city. Some international schools also took precautions, with at least one reportedly moving children into a basement. Several businesses in the King Abdullah Financial District were also reported to have evacuated staff.The United States urged its citizens in Saudi Arabia to “exercise heightened vigilance” following the attacks. Indian Embassy in Riyadh urged its nationals to remain “alert and vigilant”.The escalation comes as fighting in Yemen intensifies. More than 200,000 people have been displaced since July, according to UN figures, adding to a humanitarian crisis in which much of the population depends on aid. &nbsp;

Houthi attacks targeted Riyadh airport with missiles, reportedly damaging up to three planes and disrupting flights, while debris from interceptions hit a kindergarten and medical complex in Riyadh.

At least one aircraft at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport was severely damaged after Yemen’s Houthis launched strikes on Saudi capital on Thursday (Oct 8), according to reports. This comes amid renewed tensions as an Iran-backed group launched attacks at airports in the country. The attacks have also disrupted flight operations as several airlines cancelled flights to Riyadh. Many countries, including India and the United States, have also urged their nationals to stay vigilant. A source briefed on the matter told AFP that an aircraft suffered “catastrophic damage”, while another said three planes were hit. The reports came after multiple explosions were heard across Riyadh. Houthi attacks target Riyadh Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the group carried out three separate attacks targeting Riyadh airport. He also said missiles were launched towards an airport in Najran and an airbase in Khamis Mushait. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted two missiles fired towards Riyadh. However, debris from the interceptions caused damage elsewhere in the capital. Saudi Arabia’s civil defence agency said “interception debris” struck a kindergarten and a medical complex. It did not immediately provide details on the extent of the damage or report casualties. The Houthis have repeatedly targeted Saudi Arabia since the wider Middle East war intensified. Their latest attacks have also increasingly focused on critical infrastructure, including oil facilities. Flights disrupted, residents told to take precautions The attacks caused significant disruption at Riyadh airport, with numerous flights delayed or cancelled, according to information displayed at the facility. The airport itself had not confirmed the reported damage, advising passengers to contact their airlines before travelling. Diplomats in Riyadh were instructed to shelter in place at their respective embassies after explosions echoed through the city. Some international schools also took precautions, with at least one reportedly moving children into a basement. Several businesses in the King Abdullah Financial District were also reported to have evacuated staff. The United States urged its citizens in Saudi Arabia to “exercise heightened vigilance” following the attacks. Indian Embassy in Riyadh urged its nationals to remain “alert and vigilant”. The escalation comes as fighting in Yemen intensifies. More than 200,000 people have been displaced since July, according to UN figures, adding to a humanitarian crisis in which much of the population depends on aid.

Houthi attacks targeted Riyadh airport with missiles, reportedly damaging up to three planes and disrupting flights, while debris from interceptions hit a kindergarten and medical complex in Riyadh.

At least one plane ‘catastrophically damaged’ at Riyadh airport after Houthi strikes: Report

Despite the Indian government's clarification on Starlink's licence and regulatory process, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has doubled down on his claims that his satellite internet company is being blocked from entering the Indian market.&nbsp;Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also responded to Musk's latest post on X, leading to a brief exchange between the two.<h3>What did Musk say?</h3>Musk, in a series of posts on X, alleged that "certain oligarchs" were blocking Starlink's entry into India despite the company's efforts to secure regulatory approvals.&nbsp;In his latest post, Musk questioned why Starlink was still waiting to begin commercial operations in India despite being licensed in more than 165 countries.&nbsp;"Starlink is licenced in over 165 countries and has spent five years complying with every single law and requirement of the government of India, so why still no license? Is Ambani the real boss of India?" Musk wrote on X.&nbsp;He made the post while sharing a claim that the Indian government was more interested in protecting "crony capitalists" than the interests of citizens.&nbsp;Musk had made a similar allegation on Wednesday night, writing, “Unfortunately, we are being blocked by certain oligarchs to maintain their monopolistic chokehold on the Indian people. You can guess who they are …,”<h3>How did Rahul Gandhi respond?</h3>Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi responded to Musk's latest post on X.&nbsp;"Welcome to India, Elon. Wait till you discover the other guy," Gandhi wrote.&nbsp;Musk replied within an hour, saying, "Thank you, Rahul. This is indeed troubling."<h3>India makes stance clear on Starlink licence</h3>Earlier in the day, the Indian government responded to the broader claims about the country's regulatory framework for satellite communication services without directly naming Musk.&nbsp;"A post is being circulated on social media regarding the fairness of India's regulatory framework for satellite communication services and suggesting that it is being applied in a discriminatory manner," the government said.&nbsp;It said India has a "fair and non-discriminatory authorisation framework" for all telecommunication services, including satellite communication.&nbsp;The government said licences have been granted to three companies providing satellite communication services based on non-geosynchronous satellite orbit technology.&nbsp;"Under the terms and conditions of license, every such licensee is required to demonstrate compliance with security conditions," the government said, adding that the process is aimed at ensuring the safety of users and their data.&nbsp;"Security assessment as part of this process is currently under way in respect of all the three licensees. As and when this process is completed for a licensed entity, it may proceed to the next step of seeking assignment of spectrum," it added.<h3>Where do things stand?</h3>Starlink already holds a licence to provide satellite communication services in India, but commercial operations have not yet started because the company still needs to complete remaining government requirements, including security-related approvals.&nbsp;Starlink has received Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) authorisation, while IN-SPACe authorised its first-generation constellation in 2025.&nbsp;However, spectrum assignment and security-related requirements are still pending. Starlink has also renewed its push for approval of a larger Gen 2 constellation, including direct-to-device capabilities.The three companies that have received licences are Musk's Starlink, Reliance Jio's satellite venture Jio Satcom and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb.&nbsp;None of the three companies can begin commercial services until the required security assessments and spectrum-related approvals are completed.

Elon Musk stepped up the ante over Starlink’s delayed entry into India, saying the company is licensed in 165 countries and has spent five years complying with Indian laws and government requirements, and got a response from Rahul Gandhi.

Despite the Indian government's clarification on Starlink's licence and regulatory process, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has doubled down on his claims that his satellite internet company is being blocked from entering the Indian market. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also responded to Musk's latest post on X, leading to a brief exchange between the two. What did Musk say? Musk, in a series of posts on X, alleged that "certain oligarchs" were blocking Starlink's entry into India despite the company's efforts to secure regulatory approvals. In his latest post, Musk questioned why Starlink was still waiting to begin commercial operations in India despite being licensed in more than 165 countries. "Starlink is licenced in over 165 countries and has spent five years complying with every single law and requirement of the government of India, so why still no license? Is Ambani the real boss of India?" Musk wrote on X. He made the post while sharing a claim that the Indian government was more interested in protecting "crony capitalists" than the interests of citizens. Musk had made a similar allegation on Wednesday night, writing, “Unfortunately, we are being blocked by certain oligarchs to maintain their monopolistic chokehold on the Indian people. You can guess who they are …,” How did Rahul Gandhi respond? Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi responded to Musk's latest post on X. "Welcome to India, Elon. Wait till you discover the other guy," Gandhi wrote. Musk replied within an hour, saying, "Thank you, Rahul. This is indeed troubling." India makes stance clear on Starlink licence Earlier in the day, the Indian government responded to the broader claims about the country's regulatory framework for satellite communication services without directly naming Musk. "A post is being circulated on social media regarding the fairness of India's regulatory framework for satellite communication services and suggesting that it is being applied in a discriminatory manner," the government said. It said India has a "fair and non-discriminatory authorisation framework" for all telecommunication services, including satellite communication. The government said licences have been granted to three companies providing satellite communication services based on non-geosynchronous satellite orbit technology. "Under the terms and conditions of license, every such licensee is required to demonstrate compliance with security conditions," the government said, adding that the process is aimed at ensuring the safety of users and their data. "Security assessment as part of this process is currently under way in respect of all the three licensees. As and when this process is completed for a licensed entity, it may proceed to the next step of seeking assignment of spectrum," it added. Where do things stand? Starlink already holds a licence to provide satellite communication services in India, but commercial operations have not yet started because the company still needs to complete remaining government requirements, including security-related approvals. Starlink has received Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) authorisation, while IN-SPACe authorised its first-generation constellation in 2025. However, spectrum assignment and security-related requirements are still pending. Starlink has also renewed its push for approval of a larger Gen 2 constellation, including direct-to-device capabilities. The three companies that have received licences are Musk's Starlink, Reliance Jio's satellite venture Jio Satcom and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb. None of the three companies can begin commercial services until the required security assessments and spectrum-related approvals are completed.

Elon Musk stepped up the ante over Starlink’s delayed entry into India, saying the company is licensed in 165 countries and has spent five years complying with Indian laws and government requirements, and gets a response from Rahul Gandhi.

Musk doubles down on Starlink India licence allegations; Rahul Gandhi says ‘wait till...’

President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States ⁠is having productive discussions with Iran and will ⁠not attack the country before US midterm congressional elections in November.“We ‌are having productive discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We will ⁠not be ⁠attacking Iran at any time prior to the Midterm Elections to be ‌held in the United States on November 3rd,” Trump ‌said.&nbsp;He said Iran is in very bad condition, both economically and militarily, and the US blockade of ⁠Iranian ports remains in full force and effect.Trump added that oil is flowing through ⁠the Strait of Hormuz in record numbers of barrels through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Trump's post came at a crucial time as several US media outlets reported on Thursday that he was considering new strikes on Iran before the midterm elections. The reports had led to an increase in the crude oil price.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brent crude, the international standard, was up to $105 a barrel, about a 4% increase from Wednesday close, before Trump's post on social media. Brent dropped to $103 a barrel after Trump’s post.&nbsp;<h2>Iran reviewing US reaction to peace proposal: Araghchi</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also confirmed on Thursday that negotiations with the United States are continuing through intermediaries. Araghchi said Tehran is reviewing Washington’s response to an Iranian proposal described as a “seven-day plan.”&nbsp;Speaking to the Students News Network, an official news agency, after attending a funeral ceremony in Tehran on Thursday, Araghchi said, “The negotiating process is still continuing, and, through intermediaries, messages are being exchanged.”&nbsp;He said Iran had presented its proposal and had subsequently heard the US position in response.“We presented our plan, which was the plan referred to as the seven-day plan. We heard the Americans’ views in response. We are now reviewing them.”“I think we will respond within a few days,” he added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also confirmed on Thursday that negotiations with the United States are continuing through intermediaries. Araghchi said Tehran is reviewing Washington’s response to an Iranian proposal described as a “seven-day plan.”

President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States ⁠is having productive discussions with Iran and will ⁠not attack the country before US midterm congressional elections in November. “We ‌are having productive discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. “We will ⁠not be ⁠attacking Iran at any time prior to the Midterm Elections to be ‌held in the United States on November 3rd,” Trump ‌said. He said Iran is in very bad condition, both economically and militarily, and the US blockade of ⁠Iranian ports remains in full force and effect. Trump added that oil is flowing through ⁠the Strait of Hormuz in record numbers of barrels through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump's post came at a crucial time as several US media outlets reported on Thursday that he was considering new strikes on Iran before the midterm elections. The reports had led to an increase in the crude oil price. Brent crude, the international standard, was up to $105 a barrel, about a 4% increase from Wednesday close, before Trump's post on social media. Brent dropped to $103 a barrel after Trump’s post. Iran reviewing US reaction to peace proposal: Araghchi Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also confirmed on Thursday that negotiations with the United States are continuing through intermediaries. Araghchi said Tehran is reviewing Washington’s response to an Iranian proposal described as a “seven-day plan.” Speaking to the Students News Network, an official news agency, after attending a funeral ceremony in Tehran on Thursday, Araghchi said, “The negotiating process is still continuing, and, through intermediaries, messages are being exchanged.” He said Iran had presented its proposal and had subsequently heard the US position in response. “We presented our plan, which was the plan referred to as the seven-day plan. We heard the Americans’ views in response. We are now reviewing them.” “I think we will respond within a few days,” he added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also confirmed on Thursday that negotiations with the United States are continuing through intermediaries. Araghchi said Tehran is reviewing Washington’s response to an Iranian proposal described as a “seven-day plan.”

Trump says US won’t attack Iran before midterm elections in November

The Trump administration has suspended Microsoft from a US programme that allows companies to seek green cards for foreign workers employed in the country on H-1B visas.&nbsp;Vice President JD Vance and US Labour Department officials announced the action on Thursday, accusing Microsoft and other major technology and outsourcing companies of abusing the H-1B visa system at the expense of American workers.&nbsp;The administration said the suspension followed an ongoing investigation into the company's use of the visa system. Vance said the government had decided to suspend Microsoft's participation in the PERM programme, which is a key step for employers seeking permanent residency for foreign workers.&nbsp;"Thanks to an ongoing investigation, we have decided to suspend the PERM program for Microsoft, which means they will no longer be able to take those H1-Bs and apply for permanent resident status within the United States of America," Vance said in a post on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vice President JD Vance announces the suspension of the PERM Program for Microsoft:

&quot;Thanks to an ongoing investigation, we have decided to suspend the PERM program for Microsoft, which means they will no longer be able to take those H-1Bs and apply for permanent resident status within the United States of America. Now our message to Microsoft and to any other foreign or domestic corporation is quite simple. We obviously want you to thrive in the United States of America. We want people to invest in the United States of America, particularly the American technology sector. We’re the biggest boosters of your industry. We want you to continue to grow and to employ a lot of people, but we want you to employ American workers. And so our message to Microsoft is, you’re great American company, but you’ve got to hire great American workers. You cannot lay off American workers and then replace them with foreign indentured servants.&quot;&mdash; Vice President JD Vance (@VP) <a href="https://x.com/VP/status/2108215063702036519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The vice president also accused Microsoft of using foreign workers in a way that undercut US wages and displaced American employees.&nbsp;"There has been no company in the United States, unfortunately, that has abused the system more than Microsoft," Vance said at a White House news conference.&nbsp;He claimed Microsoft laid off 6,000 American workers last year while benefiting from 6,300 H-1B visas and nearly 3,000 green cards.&nbsp;"For every worker that Microsoft laid off, they replaced that worker with 1½ foreign indentured servants," Vance said.&nbsp;Microsoft had not immediately responded to requests for comment.<h3>Other IT companies also targeted</h3>US Labour Secretary Keith Sonderling said Microsoft was not the only company facing action.&nbsp;The administration also announced the suspension of several other companies from the programme, including Cognizant, Infosys, Tata, Wipro, HCL, Capgemini and Adobe.&nbsp;The move expands the administration's scrutiny of companies that rely heavily on foreign workers and comes as the Trump administration continues its wider push to tighten the H-1B visa system.<h3>Universities also under investigation</h3>The Labour Department also announced investigations into nine universities over allegations involving international students and US wages. The institutions include Harvard, Yale and Stanford.&nbsp;Labour Department Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito said subpoenas had already been served as part of the investigations.&nbsp;The administration has increasingly focused on alleged misuse of programmes involving foreign workers and international students, arguing that such practices can affect employment opportunities and wages for American workers.

Trump administration has suspended Microsoft and several other major technology companies from the US green card programme for H-1B workers, accusing them of abusing the visa system and disadvantaging American workers.

The Trump administration has suspended Microsoft from a US programme that allows companies to seek green cards for foreign workers employed in the country on H-1B visas. Vice President JD Vance and US Labour Department officials announced the action on Thursday, accusing Microsoft and other major technology and outsourcing companies of abusing the H-1B visa system at the expense of American workers. The administration said the suspension followed an ongoing investigation into the company's use of the visa system. Vance said the government had decided to suspend Microsoft's participation in the PERM programme, which is a key step for employers seeking permanent residency for foreign workers. "Thanks to an ongoing investigation, we have decided to suspend the PERM program for Microsoft, which means they will no longer be able to take those H1-Bs and apply for permanent resident status within the United States of America," Vance said in a post on X.

Trump administration has suspended Microsoft and several other major technology companies from the US green card programme for H-1B workers, accusing them of abusing the visa system and disadvantaging American workers.

US suspends Microsoft, Infosys, Tata, Wipro from green card programme over alleged H-1B abuse

Oil prices surged more than five per cent on Thursday after reports that the United States could launch fresh attacks on Iran before next month's midterm elections, raising fears of further disruptions to global oil supplies.&nbsp;International benchmark Brent crude rose to $105.46 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed to $92.82 per barrel.&nbsp;The rise came after The Atlantic reported that the White House had asked the Pentagon to prepare options for strikes on sites in Iran ahead of the November 3 vote.&nbsp;With Donald Trump's Republicans facing the possibility of losing both houses of Congress, any escalation in the US-Iran conflict could put further pressure on the president. Americans are already dealing with record-high diesel prices.&nbsp;The conflict has also affected shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil supplies. Smaller-scale Iranian attacks on commercial shipping have reduced traffic through the waterway to a fraction of prewar levels.&nbsp;According to MarineTraffic data, daily traffic through the Strait of Hormuz averaged fewer than 23 ships between September 28 and October 4. Before the war, hundreds of ships passed through the waterway each day carrying crude oil and related products to global markets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gst-council-bets-on-easier-compliance-removes-arrest-powers-and-raises-prosecution-threshold-to-5-crore-1791463045107">GST Council bets on easier compliance, removes arrest powers and raises prosecution threshold to ₹5 crore</a><h2>Qatar says US-Iran talks still ongoing</h2>Despite growing differences between Washington and Tehran, Qatar said on Tuesday that indirect talks between the United States and Iran were still continuing.&nbsp;Qatari Foreign Ministry official Ibrahim Al-Hashmi said messages were being exchanged between the two sides through Qatar and its regional partners. He said the discussions were taking into account the concerns of all parties involved.&nbsp;"I can confirm that the talks are continuing and the exchange of messages between different parties is continuing via Qatar and its regional partners," Al-Hashmi said.&nbsp;Earlier this month, Trump rejected a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week and resume nuclear talks in return for lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports.<h2>G7 agrees to release 100 million barrels</h2>The oil market remains under pressure despite efforts to increase fuel supplies.&nbsp;On Friday, G7 countries agreed to coordinate the release of 100 million barrels of oil and fuel stocks through the International Energy Agency. The plan includes a substantial release of diesel within the first 20 days and will continue for four months.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump also said European countries had agreed to release a "massive amount" of diesel from their reserves, with the process beginning immediately.&nbsp;Despite the move, oil prices remain high, adding to inflation concerns in the United States and Europe.

Oil prices surged more than 5% as fears of fresh US strikes on Iran raised concerns over global supplies, even as Qatar said on October 6 that indirect US-Iran talks were continuing and the G7 moved to release 100 million barrels of oil and fuel stocks.

Oil prices surged more than five per cent on Thursday after reports that the United States could launch fresh attacks on Iran before next month's midterm elections, raising fears of further disruptions to global oil supplies. International benchmark Brent crude rose to $105.46 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed to $92.82 per barrel. The rise came after The Atlantic reported that the White House had asked the Pentagon to prepare options for strikes on sites in Iran ahead of the November 3 vote. With Donald Trump's Republicans facing the possibility of losing both houses of Congress, any escalation in the US-Iran conflict could put further pressure on the president. Americans are already dealing with record-high diesel prices. The conflict has also affected shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil supplies. Smaller-scale Iranian attacks on commercial shipping have reduced traffic through the waterway to a fraction of prewar levels. According to MarineTraffic data, daily traffic through the Strait of Hormuz averaged fewer than 23 ships between September 28 and October 4. Before the war, hundreds of ships passed through the waterway each day carrying crude oil and related products to global markets. Also Read: GST Council bets on easier compliance, removes arrest powers and raises prosecution threshold to ₹5 crore Qatar says US-Iran talks still ongoing Despite growing differences between Washington and Tehran, Qatar said on Tuesday that indirect talks between the United States and Iran were still continuing. Qatari Foreign Ministry official Ibrahim Al-Hashmi said messages were being exchanged between the two sides through Qatar and its regional partners. He said the discussions were taking into account the concerns of all parties involved. "I can confirm that the talks are continuing and the exchange of messages between different parties is continuing via Qatar and its regional partners," Al-Hashmi said. Earlier this month, Trump rejected a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week and resume nuclear talks in return for lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. G7 agrees to release 100 million barrels The oil market remains under pressure despite efforts to increase fuel supplies. On Friday, G7 countries agreed to coordinate the release of 100 million barrels of oil and fuel stocks through the International Energy Agency. The plan includes a substantial release of diesel within the first 20 days and will continue for four months. US President Donald Trump also said European countries had agreed to release a "massive amount" of diesel from their reserves, with the process beginning immediately. Despite the move, oil prices remain high, adding to inflation concerns in the United States and Europe.

Oil prices surged more than 5% as fears of fresh US strikes on Iran raised concerns over global supplies, even as Qatar said on October 6 that indirect US-Iran talks were continuing and the G7 moved to release 100 million barrels of oil and fuel stocks.

Oil prices climb above $105 as Trump considers renewed strikes on Iran

Christa Pike, the Tennessee death-row inmate who survived a failed lethal injection last week, is now walking around her hospital room, according to her lawyer. Pike was initially taken to hospital in a critical condition after prison staff administered two doses of pentobarbital during the execution. Her lawyers had warned beforehand that a medical condition could make the lethal injection procedure difficult.Stephen Ferrell, a member of Pike’s legal team, told BBC that the 50-year-old remained mentally “foggy” but had begun moving around for the first time since the botched execution on September 30.“She is up and walking for the first time today, but just around the room, not very far,” Ferrell said.He said Pike’s arms had suffered significant injuries and that she was struggling to use them.<h2>‘Somewhat foggy’ after lethal injection</h2>Ferrell said Pike appeared to be improving physically but continued to experience confusion.Describing her mental state, he said, “I think it’s kind of good and bad. Good that she is fairly with it, but she’s also somewhat foggy. She can lose her train of thought really easily and forgets where she’s going.”Her lawyers remain uncertain about whether the effects of the failed execution could cause lasting harm.“I assume [the situation for Pike] will keep improving, but there could be some permanent damage. We don’t know that yet,” Ferrell said.Pike’s legal team is seeking psychological support for her and is opposing any attempt to execute her again using lethal injection.<h2>Court orders evidence preserved</h2>A Tennessee judge has ordered authorities to preserve evidence from the execution attempt, potentially laying the foundation for further legal action. Judge I’Ashea Myles ordered the state to retain items from the execution chamber, including IV lines, syringes, packaging, inserts and labels.She also sought records documenting Pike’s psychological condition before, during and after the attempt, warning the state to take “special care” with potentially relevant information.Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has paused executions in the state for the remainder of the year while officials investigate what went wrong.Pike was sentenced to death for the 1995 murder of 19-year-old Colleen Slemmer. She is believed to be the only person to have survived a US lethal injection execution attempt.

Christa Pike is now walking in the hospital after surviving a failed lethal injection execution in Tennessee, while her lawyer says she remains mentally “foggy” and may face lasting damage.

Christa Pike, the Tennessee death-row inmate who survived a failed lethal injection last week, is now walking around her hospital room, according to her lawyer. Pike was initially taken to hospital in a critical condition after prison staff administered two doses of pentobarbital during the execution. Her lawyers had warned beforehand that a medical condition could make the lethal injection procedure difficult. Stephen Ferrell, a member of Pike’s legal team, told BBC that the 50-year-old remained mentally “foggy” but had begun moving around for the first time since the botched execution on September 30. “She is up and walking for the first time today, but just around the room, not very far,” Ferrell said. He said Pike’s arms had suffered significant injuries and that she was struggling to use them. ‘Somewhat foggy’ after lethal injection Ferrell said Pike appeared to be improving physically but continued to experience confusion. Describing her mental state, he said, “I think it’s kind of good and bad. Good that she is fairly with it, but she’s also somewhat foggy. She can lose her train of thought really easily and forgets where she’s going.” Her lawyers remain uncertain about whether the effects of the failed execution could cause lasting harm. “I assume [the situation for Pike] will keep improving, but there could be some permanent damage. We don’t know that yet,” Ferrell said. Pike’s legal team is seeking psychological support for her and is opposing any attempt to execute her again using lethal injection. Court orders evidence preserved A Tennessee judge has ordered authorities to preserve evidence from the execution attempt, potentially laying the foundation for further legal action. Judge I’Ashea Myles ordered the state to retain items from the execution chamber, including IV lines, syringes, packaging, inserts and labels. She also sought records documenting Pike’s psychological condition before, during and after the attempt, warning the state to take “special care” with potentially relevant information. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has paused executions in the state for the remainder of the year while officials investigate what went wrong. Pike was sentenced to death for the 1995 murder of 19-year-old Colleen Slemmer. She is believed to be the only person to have survived a US lethal injection execution attempt.

Christa Pike is now walking in the hospital after surviving a failed lethal injection execution in Tennessee, while her lawyer says she remains mentally “foggy” and may face lasting damage.

Christa Pike ‘up and walking’ after botched execution – What we know

The mother of the Russian lab worker who allegedly died after contracting pneumonic plague has broken her silence on her daughter's death. Reports claim that 29-year-old Darya Shipilova died of the infection on October 2 after she accidentally broke a test tube at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia. However, her mother, Svetlana, who is also a scientist, told the Russian outlet Glubina, "I know the truth."&nbsp;Referring to the broken test tube theory, she said, "I’m having to fend off stupid acquaintances who believed all this, the clever ones didn’t believe it, of course." Svetlana has refuted claims that her daughter came in contact with the live bacteria because she broke a test tube. She said it is "impossible to break a test tube like that, even if you fling it at the wall."&nbsp;"Even hypothetically, you simply can’t spill what’s inside or break the tube – they’re that well protected," Svetlana added.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-plague-scare-second-person-succumbs-to-infection-reports-claim-1791341387398">Russia plague scare: Second person succumbs to infection, reports claim</a>&nbsp;While she did not confirm what exactly led to her daughter's death, she slammed authorities for not doing enough to save Darya. They "simply let my daughter die," she told the outlet.<h2>Russia denies second death from plague</h2>Russia has dismissed reports that Darya died of plague, maintaining that she developed a case of severe pneumonia. There have been reports that a second person has also died of the deadly infection. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called it "false information."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-breaks-silence-on-possible-pneumonic-plague-in-russia-seeks-clarity-on-second-reported-death-1791344075932">WHO breaks silence on possible pneumonic plague in Russia, seeks clarity on second reported death</a>&nbsp;Moscow Times had initially reported that Darya died of a deadly strain of plague in Siberia. It said that over 200 people were being monitored. Later, Russian authorities said in a note, "Test results showed no presence of dangerous infectious disease pathogens in any of the contacts." It added that “medical monitoring for 100 per cent of the contacts had been concluded and the epidemiological situation is stable and remains under monitoring.”<h2>What Trump and WHO said about possible plague outbreak in Russia&nbsp;</h2>United States has said that it is monitoring the situation in the country. President Donald Trump is said to have spoken with Putin and was reportedly assured that the situation is "very much under control." Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has assured that the supposed pneumonic plague scare presents a "very low" risk outside the country.&nbsp;Russia's neighbouring countries, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, have tightened their border health controls amid the report.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Russia plague situation: Lab worker Darya Shipilova's mother has spoken out for the first time since her daughter's death. She said that her daughter did not die from breaking a test tube and that the authorities let her daughter die. 

The mother of the Russian lab worker who allegedly died after contracting pneumonic plague has broken her silence on her daughter's death. Reports claim that 29-year-old Darya Shipilova died of the infection on October 2 after she accidentally broke a test tube at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute of Siberia. However, her mother, Svetlana, who is also a scientist, told the Russian outlet Glubina, "I know the truth." Referring to the broken test tube theory, she said, "I’m having to fend off stupid acquaintances who believed all this, the clever ones didn’t believe it, of course." Svetlana has refuted claims that her daughter came in contact with the live bacteria because she broke a test tube. She said it is "impossible to break a test tube like that, even if you fling it at the wall." "Even hypothetically, you simply can’t spill what’s inside or break the tube – they’re that well protected," Svetlana added. Also Read: Russia plague scare: Second person succumbs to infection, reports claim While she did not confirm what exactly led to her daughter's death, she slammed authorities for not doing enough to save Darya. They "simply let my daughter die," she told the outlet. Russia denies second death from plague Russia has dismissed reports that Darya died of plague, maintaining that she developed a case of severe pneumonia. There have been reports that a second person has also died of the deadly infection. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called it "false information." Also Read: WHO breaks silence on possible pneumonic plague in Russia, seeks clarity on second reported death Moscow Times had initially reported that Darya died of a deadly strain of plague in Siberia. It said that over 200 people were being monitored. Later, Russian authorities said in a note, "Test results showed no presence of dangerous infectious disease pathogens in any of the contacts." It added that “medical monitoring for 100 per cent of the contacts had been concluded and the epidemiological situation is stable and remains under monitoring.” What Trump and WHO said about possible plague outbreak in Russia United States has said that it is monitoring the situation in the country. President Donald Trump is said to have spoken with Putin and was reportedly assured that the situation is "very much under control." Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has assured that the supposed pneumonic plague scare presents a "very low" risk outside the country. Russia's neighbouring countries, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, have tightened their border health controls amid the report.

Russia plague situation: Lab worker Darya Shipilova's mother has spoken out for the first time since her daughter's death. She said that her daughter did not die from breaking a test tube and that the authorities let her daughter die.&nbsp;

'They let my daughter die': Russian lab worker's mother speaks up amid plague scare

South Korea on Thursday (Oct 8) flight-tested its first domestically developed hypersonic weapon. This marks a significant step in Seoul’s push to build advanced conventional weapons capable of challenging sophisticated missile defence systems. The weapon, tested in the presence of President Lee Jae Myung, is designed to travel at least five times the speed of sound and manoeuvre during flight, making it harder to detect and intercept.According to a statement from Lee’s office, the weapon separated from its booster at the planned altitude before descending and carrying out both vertical and horizontal manoeuvres. It then struck a designated test target.The military did not disclose where the test was conducted.Once operational, the weapon is expected to give South Korea the ability to launch surprise strikes against key targets across the “Korean Peninsula theater of operations,” according to the statement.<h2>Lee calls for stronger self-reliance</h2>Lee described the test as an important move towards strengthening South Korea’s conventional defence capabilities.South Korea “must secure our security through our own strength,” Lee said, according to his office.He also inspected the country’s most powerful Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile during the visit.The test comes as Seoul faces mounting security concerns over North Korea’s expanding weapons programme and increasingly hostile stance towards the South.<h2>North Korea’s own hypersonic test</h2>Pyongyang conducted its own hypersonic missile test on October 3, saying the intermediate-range weapon travelled more than 1,000 kilometres before landing in waters near Japan.South Korea estimated the missile travelled more than 700 kilometres, while Japan assessed its range at about 680 kilometres.Kim Yo Jong, the North Korean leader’s sister, seized on the differing assessments, arguing that the two US allies lacked the ability to properly track or intercept such weapons.Tensions have also risen after three South Korean soldiers were injured by land mines near the inter-Korean border. Seoul and the US-led UN Command blamed North Korea for planting the mines, a charge Pyongyang has rejected.North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has meanwhile continued expanding his nuclear weapons programme while rejecting US calls to revive stalled diplomacy.

South Korea has tested its first domestically developed hypersonic weapon as tensions with North Korea rise following Pyongyang’s latest hypersonic missile test.

South Korea on Thursday (Oct 8) flight-tested its first domestically developed hypersonic weapon. This marks a significant step in Seoul’s push to build advanced conventional weapons capable of challenging sophisticated missile defence systems. The weapon, tested in the presence of President Lee Jae Myung, is designed to travel at least five times the speed of sound and manoeuvre during flight, making it harder to detect and intercept. According to a statement from Lee’s office, the weapon separated from its booster at the planned altitude before descending and carrying out both vertical and horizontal manoeuvres. It then struck a designated test target. The military did not disclose where the test was conducted. Once operational, the weapon is expected to give South Korea the ability to launch surprise strikes against key targets across the “Korean Peninsula theater of operations,” according to the statement. Lee calls for stronger self-reliance Lee described the test as an important move towards strengthening South Korea’s conventional defence capabilities. South Korea “must secure our security through our own strength,” Lee said, according to his office. He also inspected the country’s most powerful Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile during the visit. The test comes as Seoul faces mounting security concerns over North Korea’s expanding weapons programme and increasingly hostile stance towards the South. North Korea’s own hypersonic test Pyongyang conducted its own hypersonic missile test on October 3, saying the intermediate-range weapon travelled more than 1,000 kilometres before landing in waters near Japan. South Korea estimated the missile travelled more than 700 kilometres, while Japan assessed its range at about 680 kilometres. Kim Yo Jong, the North Korean leader’s sister, seized on the differing assessments, arguing that the two US allies lacked the ability to properly track or intercept such weapons. Tensions have also risen after three South Korean soldiers were injured by land mines near the inter-Korean border. Seoul and the US-led UN Command blamed North Korea for planting the mines, a charge Pyongyang has rejected. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has meanwhile continued expanding his nuclear weapons programme while rejecting US calls to revive stalled diplomacy.

South Korea has tested its first domestically developed hypersonic weapon as tensions with North Korea rise following Pyongyang’s latest hypersonic missile test.

South Korea tests first hypersonic weapon amid rising tensions with North Korea

A drone attack forced Russian tech giant Yandex to shut down a major data centre in Ryazan on Thursday (Oct 8) as the deadly war with Ukraine continues for more than four years. The attack resulted in a fire at the company’s data centre and damaged its infrastructure. Meanwhile, a Russian strike on two buses in Ukraine’s frontline city of Kramatorsk killed 30 people. The attacks underline the widening reach of the Russia-Ukraine war, with infrastructure and civilian areas increasingly caught in the crossfire.<h2>Russia’s Yandex facility halted after fire</h2>The drone strike sparked a fire at Yandex’s data centre in Sasovo, Ryazan, disrupting part of the company’s infrastructure. Yandex said the facility had stopped operating entirely and warned that some of its services could become unavailable.“There are no casualties, and emergency services are on site dealing with the aftermath,” the company said.Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the attack. Kyiv has, however, intensified strikes on Russian energy and industrial infrastructure in recent months, arguing that facilities such as oil refineries help finance Moscow’s war effort.The attacks come as Russia continues to target Ukraine’s energy system. Kyiv imposed emergency power cuts on Thursday amid continuing strikes on its electricity infrastructure, raising concerns ahead of winter.

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-status="hidden">🔥 The first of Yandex's few large data centers was attacked in response to the Russia’s terrorist attacks last night. 

❌ The data center is now completely down. https://t.co/1J22t2qtz5&mdash; MAKS 26 🇺🇦👀 (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) <a href="https://x.com/Maks_NAFO_FELLA/status/2108093169208344850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-status="hidden">Ukrainian attack drones hit Russia's Sasta machine-tool plant tonight, colocated with a major datacenter belonging to the Russian internet giant Yandex. 

Multiple explosions and a large fire were reported at the complex in Ryazan Oblast. https://t.co/kPZwmd0IDq&mdash; OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) <a href="https://x.com/Osinttechnical/status/2107990034305765794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>30 killed in Ukraine’s Kramatorsk</h2>In Kramatorsk, Ukrainian authorities said two buses were struck by a Russian glide bomb, killing 30 people. Images released by local officials showed the burned-out remains of the vehicles and debris scattered along the road.Donetsk Governor Vadym Filashkin accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians, saying the attack violated “every conceivable rule of warfare and norm of international humanitarian law”.The strike came a day after a Russian missile attack on an apartment building in Pryluky killed 22 people, including five children.The latest casualties add to growing fears over attacks beyond the immediate frontline. The United Nations has verified more than 17,000 civilian deaths since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022, while warning that the actual toll is considerably higher.Kramatorsk, a major Ukrainian logistics hub before the war, remains one of the key cities in Donetsk still under Kyiv’s control. With Russian forces pressing closer, local authorities have now suspended public transport in Kramatorsk and neighbouring Sloviansk, citing concerns for passengers and drivers.“Under these circumstances, we cannot risk the lives of passengers and drivers,” Filashkin said. “The safety of the residents of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk is now our top priority.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Russia has again brought death to ordinary Ukrainians. Its strike on two passenger buses in Kramatorsk killed at least 33 people and wounded 18.

My deepest condolences to their families. My heart is with the wounded and all Ukrainians facing this terror. Russia must be stopped. https://t.co/FLyFDh4t2y&mdash; Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya (@Tsihanouskaya) <a href="https://x.com/Tsihanouskaya/status/2108145457285186014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
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A drone attack sparked a fire at Russia’s Yandex data centre, forcing it to shut down, while a Russian strike on two buses in Ukraine’s Kramatorsk killed 30 people, authorities said Thursday.

A drone attack forced Russian tech giant Yandex to shut down a major data centre in Ryazan on Thursday (Oct 8) as the deadly war with Ukraine continues for more than four years. The attack resulted in a fire at the company’s data centre and damaged its infrastructure. Meanwhile, a Russian strike on two buses in Ukraine’s frontline city of Kramatorsk killed 30 people. The attacks underline the widening reach of the Russia-Ukraine war, with infrastructure and civilian areas increasingly caught in the crossfire. Russia’s Yandex facility halted after fire The drone strike sparked a fire at Yandex’s data centre in Sasovo, Ryazan, disrupting part of the company’s infrastructure. Yandex said the facility had stopped operating entirely and warned that some of its services could become unavailable. “There are no casualties, and emergency services are on site dealing with the aftermath,” the company said. Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the attack. Kyiv has, however, intensified strikes on Russian energy and industrial infrastructure in recent months, arguing that facilities such as oil refineries help finance Moscow’s war effort. The attacks come as Russia continues to target Ukraine’s energy system. Kyiv imposed emergency power cuts on Thursday amid continuing strikes on its electricity infrastructure, raising concerns ahead of winter.

A drone attack sparked a fire at Russia’s Yandex data centre, forcing it to shut down, while a Russian strike on two buses in Ukraine’s Kramatorsk killed 30 people, authorities said Thursday.

Video shows Russia’s Yandex data centre on fire after drone attack; 30 killed in Ukraine bus strike

The Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded to 76-year-old Canadian poet and writer Anne Carson. The Swedish Academy stated that Carson was named as this year's Nobel Literature recipient for her “bold and inventive oeuvre that, in playful dialogue with the classical tradition, has created new forms for contemporary literature.”&nbsp;Carson will also receive 12 million Swedish kronor (about $1.2 million) alongside the prestigious award. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING NEWS
The 2026 #NobelPrize in Literature is awarded to the Canadian author Anne Carson, “for her bold and inventive oeuvre that, in playful dialogue with the classical tradition, has created new forms for contemporary literature.” https://t.co/YRvlRghlGG&mdash; The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) <a href="https://x.com/NobelPrize/status/2108150755790369160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Who is Anne Carson?</h2>The Canadian poet, classicist and translator is best known for Autobiography of Red, a queer coming-of-age story which reimagines a poem by the ancient Greek poet Stesichorus.&nbsp;Born in 1950 in Toronto, Carson has a PhD in classics and has taught at a number of universities throughout her career. Her other notable works include Plainwater, Wrong Norma and The Beauty of the Husband. She became the first woman to ever win the TS Eliot prize with the latter in 2001.&nbsp;Carson is the second child of a banker and a housewife.She was introduced to Hellenic literature, which deeply influenced her writings, by a Latin instructor in high school who agreed to tutor her during lunch hours.&nbsp;Carson twice dropped out of university before returning to complete her doctorate. She went on to teach at several respected universities in Canada and the United States, including the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.&nbsp;A professor of classics with a background in dead languages, literature, anthropology and history, she was described by The New York Times in 2001 as "one of the great pasticheurs."&nbsp;Her work, however, was ignored for years, until a series of recent critical and commercial hits -- including the Princess of Asturias Award for Letters in 2020 and now the Nobel Prize.&nbsp;The 76-year-old Carson is notoriously private, preferring interviews by email from her home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she lives with her husband.&nbsp;Among her many admirers are literary luminaries Alice Munro, Michael Ondaatje, Harold Bloom and Susan Sontag.&nbsp;"She is one of the few writers writing in English that I would read anything that she wrote," said Sontag, quoted in The New York Times in 2000.&nbsp;"When you're reading her work, you're taking in a huge range of intellect and wit and emotion, which are not usually found in the same person," said Ondaatje, also quoted in the Times.&nbsp;Her publishing career began in 1986 with "Eros the Bittersweet: An Essay," which charts the concept of "eros" in ancient Greek poetry and showcases her unique approach."In the abbreviated, free-associative mode that she instantly established as her trademark, any thought might set off any other thought, or even a demi-thought," said the Times in 2001.<h2>- Opposites attract -</h2>Carson's unique contemporary poetry earned her several key literary prizes in the 1990s, including the 1996 Lannan Award and the 1997 Pushcart Prize.&nbsp;A year later, "Autobiography of Red: A Novel in Verse" -- loosely based on the Greek myth of the monster Geryon and Herakles but transformed into a modern tale of a gay love triangle -- received widespread praise.&nbsp;"She brings the ancient Greeks alive, and makes them speak in the 20th century without betraying what's been bequeathed to us from antiquity," said academic Emmet Robbins in the Times in 2001.&nbsp;"Men in the Off Hours" (2001) is a collection of poetry and prose in which Carson characteristically mixes opposites -- classical/modern, cinema/print, narrative/verse -- and reimagines famous figures.&nbsp;In 2001, Carson also became the first woman to receive the T.S. Eliot Prize for Poetry, and in 2010 she won the PEN Award for Poetry in Translation.<h2>- Timeless struggle -</h2>In 2014, Carson received a second Griffin Poetry Prize for her verse novel "Red Doc&gt;," a kind of sequel to her acclaimed "Autobiography of Red."&nbsp;"To engage so fluidly, so originally and compellingly, with a story first told more than 3,000 years ago, is astonishing: her ambition is one thing; the fact that it is so completely achieved is, frankly, something else," said The Guardian in 2013, the year the book was published.&nbsp;Her spoken and sung performance piece "Norma Jeane Baker of Troy," released in 2019, was inspired by Euripides' "Helen." Carson superimposes Marilyn Monroe over the legendary character from Greek mythology.&nbsp;And then in 2021, she released "The Trojan Women: A Comic" -- a comic book reimagining of the Euripides classic.&nbsp;Despite her exceptional writing skills, Carson says she struggles with language, its inaccuracy and clumsiness.&nbsp;"We're talking about the struggle to drag a thought over from the mush of the unconscious into some kind of grammar, syntax, human sense," she told The New York Times in 2013."I feel I am blundering in concepts too fine for me."&nbsp;(With agency inputs)

Canadian author and poet Anne Carson has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2026. The Swedish Academy announced Carson's name at a press conference on Thursday. 

The Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded to 76-year-old Canadian poet and writer Anne Carson. The Swedish Academy stated that Carson was named as this year's Nobel Literature recipient for her “bold and inventive oeuvre that, in playful dialogue with the classical tradition, has created new forms for contemporary literature.” Carson will also receive 12 million Swedish kronor (about $1.2 million) alongside the prestigious award.

Canadian author and poet Anne Carson has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2026. The Swedish Academy announced Carson's name at a press conference on Thursday.&nbsp;

Canadian writer Anne Carson wins the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature

The People's Bank of China (PBC), the country's central bank, extended its buying streak of gold reserves for the 23rd consecutive month in September 2026, marking the longest official purchase by any bank in the world. This has brought China's official gold reserves to 77.47 million ounces, up from 76.73 million ounces in August, official data showed on Wednesday (October 7). By the end of July, China's gold reserves reached nearly 76.08 million troy ounces, valuing at around $306 billion. By the end of August, its estimated value rose to $350 billion. According to Cryptometer, the People's Bank of China (PBC) added 20 tonnes in July alone, lifting official holdings to a record 2,366 tonnes.<h3>Why is China buying more gold?</h3>China's central bank has maintained a sustained gold-buying streak in world history. It has been buying gold consistently for nearly two years. Multiple reasons have been cited for the bank's move, including geopolitical uncertainty, reserve diversification, evading sanctions and de-dollarisation. De-dollarisation and reserve diversification: China holds a huge pile of foreign exchange reserves historically weighted toward US dollar assets like Treasury bonds. Gold offers a way to reduce that concentration without relying on another country's currency or financial system. Protection against sanctions: After Russia's central bank reserves were frozen due to international pressure following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, it has became wakeup call for countries like China. The move indicates that dollar- and euro-denominated reserves can be frozen by Western governments in a crisis, but gold held in domestic vaults cannot be sanctioned the same way, since it doesn't depend on a foreign issuer. Geopolitical risk management: A 2026 survey by the OMFIF (a central-bank research network) found that most reserve managers cited protection from geopolitical risk as a key reason for buying gold, and the large majority said they see the global monetary system becoming more "multipolar," i.e., less centred on the US dollar. The scale of buying: According to the People's Bank of China, official holdings reached roughly 2,366 tonnes by July 2026, after what was reported as the longest continuous buying streak in the central bank's history, 21 months in a row. However, analysts, including Goldman Sachs, believe China's actual purchases are significantly higher than the official figures suggest, since much of its buying happens through markets like London's over-the-counter gold market rather than being disclosed directly. Broader trend: China isn't alone. Central banks globally have been buying gold at near-record levels for several years, and some forecasters expect this to continue given ongoing geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and a more fragmented global financial system.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-proposes-70-000-fee-for-international-students-to-work-in-us-1791446308714">Trump administration proposes $70,000 fee for international students to work in US</a><h3>How do India and China's central banks see gold reserves?</h3>Reacting to the ongoing development, Siddharth Maurya, Managing Director of Vibhavangal Anukulkara Pvt Ltd, said, "China’s central bank has been buying gold for 23 consecutive months, accumulating 740,000 ounces of the precious metal worth $3.1 billion in the latest round. Over that period, Beijing has added 4.67 million ounces—about $19.5 billion — and grown its gold reserves to roughly $323.5 billion in total. It is not a fleeting exercise in short-term trading. It is a deepening conviction in the virtues of hard assets as a hedge against devaluation and de-dollarisation." "Meanwhile, there is an equally compelling story unfolding around India, which has official gold reserves of 880 tonnes valued at near $115–120 billion, placing it among the world’s top ten. China holds far more. But India’s true gold strength lies with its households, which own an estimated 25,000 tonnes—worth over $4 trillion, a stockpile larger than the combined reserves of the world’s largest central banks," he added. "The RBI has also been withdrawing gold from overseas repositories, and focusing more closely on its domestic gold holdings. The India connection therefore goes far beyond a desire to emulate China’s monthly gold-buying binge, and is instead about recognising that India already possesses an immense and undervalued stock of gold bullion that, if leveraged through monetisation, gold-backed finance or sovereign wealth, could create powerful economic opportunities that harness its unique cultural attachment to gold, " Maurya said.&nbsp;In September, the US dollar index rose, and prices of major financial assets declined overall globally. This comes after being influenced by the global macroeconomic environment and the monetary policies of major developed and developing economies. It prompted the country's foreign exchange reserves to fall over the month after the combined effect of exchange rate translation and changes in asset prices. Therefore, China stepped in to focus more on diversifying its reserves by buying more gold to maintain the overall stability of its foreign exchange reserves.

China's central bank has maintained a sustained gold-buying streak in world history. It has been buying gold consistently for nearly two years. Multiple reasons have been cited for the bank's move, including geopolitical uncertainty, reserve diversification, sanctions and de-dollarisation.

The People's Bank of China (PBC), the country's central bank, extended its buying streak of gold reserves for the 23rd consecutive month in September 2026, marking the longest official purchase by any bank in the world. This has brought China's official gold reserves to 77.47 million ounces, up from 76.73 million ounces in August, official data showed on Wednesday (October 7). By the end of July, China's gold reserves reached nearly 76.08 million troy ounces, valuing at around $306 billion. By the end of August, its estimated value rose to $350 billion. According to Cryptometer, the People's Bank of China (PBC) added 20 tonnes in July alone, lifting official holdings to a record 2,366 tonnes. Why is China buying more gold? China's central bank has maintained a sustained gold-buying streak in world history. It has been buying gold consistently for nearly two years. Multiple reasons have been cited for the bank's move, including geopolitical uncertainty, reserve diversification, evading sanctions and de-dollarisation. De-dollarisation and reserve diversification: China holds a huge pile of foreign exchange reserves historically weighted toward US dollar assets like Treasury bonds. Gold offers a way to reduce that concentration without relying on another country's currency or financial system. Protection against sanctions: After Russia's central bank reserves were frozen due to international pressure following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, it has became wakeup call for countries like China. The move indicates that dollar- and euro-denominated reserves can be frozen by Western governments in a crisis, but gold held in domestic vaults cannot be sanctioned the same way, since it doesn't depend on a foreign issuer. Geopolitical risk management: A 2026 survey by the OMFIF (a central-bank research network) found that most reserve managers cited protection from geopolitical risk as a key reason for buying gold, and the large majority said they see the global monetary system becoming more "multipolar," i.e., less centred on the US dollar. The scale of buying: According to the People's Bank of China, official holdings reached roughly 2,366 tonnes by July 2026, after what was reported as the longest continuous buying streak in the central bank's history, 21 months in a row. However, analysts, including Goldman Sachs, believe China's actual purchases are significantly higher than the official figures suggest, since much of its buying happens through markets like London's over-the-counter gold market rather than being disclosed directly. Broader trend: China isn't alone. Central banks globally have been buying gold at near-record levels for several years, and some forecasters expect this to continue given ongoing geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and a more fragmented global financial system. Also read: Trump administration proposes $70,000 fee for international students to work in US How do India and China's central banks see gold reserves? Reacting to the ongoing development, Siddharth Maurya, Managing Director of Vibhavangal Anukulkara Pvt Ltd, said, "China’s central bank has been buying gold for 23 consecutive months, accumulating 740,000 ounces of the precious metal worth $3.1 billion in the latest round. Over that period, Beijing has added 4.67 million ounces—about $19.5 billion — and grown its gold reserves to roughly $323.5 billion in total. It is not a fleeting exercise in short-term trading. It is a deepening conviction in the virtues of hard assets as a hedge against devaluation and de-dollarisation." "Meanwhile, there is an equally compelling story unfolding around India, which has official gold reserves of 880 tonnes valued at near $115–120 billion, placing it among the world’s top ten. China holds far more. But India’s true gold strength lies with its households, which own an estimated 25,000 tonnes—worth over $4 trillion, a stockpile larger than the combined reserves of the world’s largest central banks," he added. "The RBI has also been withdrawing gold from overseas repositories, and focusing more closely on its domestic gold holdings. The India connection therefore goes far beyond a desire to emulate China’s monthly gold-buying binge, and is instead about recognising that India already possesses an immense and undervalued stock of gold bullion that, if leveraged through monetisation, gold-backed finance or sovereign wealth, could create powerful economic opportunities that harness its unique cultural attachment to gold, " Maurya said. In September, the US dollar index rose, and prices of major financial assets declined overall globally. This comes after being influenced by the global macroeconomic environment and the monetary policies of major developed and developing economies. It prompted the country's foreign exchange reserves to fall over the month after the combined effect of exchange rate translation and changes in asset prices. Therefore, China stepped in to focus more on diversifying its reserves by buying more gold to maintain the overall stability of its foreign exchange reserves.

China's central bank has maintained a sustained gold-buying streak in world history. It has been buying gold consistently for nearly two years. Multiple reasons have been cited for the bank's move, including geopolitical uncertainty, reserve diversification, sanctions and de-dollarisation.

New Cold War: Why is China buying more gold? Explained

Isaias turned into a hurricane less than 20 hours after becoming a tropical storm on Wednesday night (October 7). It is a Category 1 storm right now and is expected to make landfall on the US coast on October 9 as a dangerous Category 2 hurricane. Isaias is now the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season. The National Hurricane Center said it is moving north-northeast toward the northern Gulf Coast, targeting the region between Louisiana and the Florida Panhandle.&nbsp;Wind speeds could cross the 100 mph mark by Friday and will peak before making landfall. Heavy rain is expected to begin on Friday. The hurricane centre said that even then it is expected to pack in strong winds and flooding rain and will dramatically weaken later.&nbsp;Mike Brennan, National Hurricane Center director, said Wednesday, "We are expecting multiple dangerous, life-threatening impacts along portions of the northern Gulf coast on Friday." He warned that the region from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, to Indian Pass, Florida, is expected to witness storm surge. He has predicted 5 to 7 feet of inundation above ground level in some areas in this stretch. Tornadoes are also possible in some places.<h2>Hurricane Isaias: Wind strength</h2>&nbsp;On October 8 early morning, maximum sustained winds were 80 mph. The NHC has forecasted that the storm will reach 100 mph later on Thursday, and peak at nearly 110 mph on Friday morning. It will make landfall near Pensacola, Florida, or Mobile late Friday.<h2>Hurricane Isaias landfall</h2> As mentioned above, the Florida Panhandle, coastal Alabama, and eastern coastal Mississippi will get damaging winds, heavy rain and storm surge. Storm surge is expected to reach around 4 to 6 feet from the mouth of the Mississippi River to the area of Gulfport.&nbsp;&nbsp;Isaiah could also strengthen to Category 3 before landfall, as per some forecasts. If Isaias makes landfall as a hurricane, it will be the first hurricane to make landfall anywhere in the United States in two years. The last one was Hurricane Milton in 2024 that slammed into Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm on October 9, 2024.&nbsp;Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Alabama Governor Kay Ivey have declared states of emergency. The entire west end of Dauphin Island in Alabama and Zones A and B in Okaloosa County in Florida are under evacuation order.<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

The National Hurricane Center declared Isaias a Category 1 hurricane late Wednesday night.  It is now the first hurricane in the Atlantic this season. Storm surge and tornado warnings have been issued, as it moves to make landfall on the Gulf Coast on October 9. 

Isaias turned into a hurricane less than 20 hours after becoming a tropical storm on Wednesday night (October 7). It is a Category 1 storm right now and is expected to make landfall on the US coast on October 9 as a dangerous Category 2 hurricane. Isaias is now the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season. The National Hurricane Center said it is moving north-northeast toward the northern Gulf Coast, targeting the region between Louisiana and the Florida Panhandle. Wind speeds could cross the 100 mph mark by Friday and will peak before making landfall. Heavy rain is expected to begin on Friday. The hurricane centre said that even then it is expected to pack in strong winds and flooding rain and will dramatically weaken later. Mike Brennan, National Hurricane Center director, said Wednesday, "We are expecting multiple dangerous, life-threatening impacts along portions of the northern Gulf coast on Friday." He warned that the region from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, to Indian Pass, Florida, is expected to witness storm surge. He has predicted 5 to 7 feet of inundation above ground level in some areas in this stretch. Tornadoes are also possible in some places. Hurricane Isaias: Wind strength On October 8 early morning, maximum sustained winds were 80 mph. The NHC has forecasted that the storm will reach 100 mph later on Thursday, and peak at nearly 110 mph on Friday morning. It will make landfall near Pensacola, Florida, or Mobile late Friday. Hurricane Isaias landfall As mentioned above, the Florida Panhandle, coastal Alabama, and eastern coastal Mississippi will get damaging winds, heavy rain and storm surge. Storm surge is expected to reach around 4 to 6 feet from the mouth of the Mississippi River to the area of Gulfport. Isaiah could also strengthen to Category 3 before landfall, as per some forecasts. If Isaias makes landfall as a hurricane, it will be the first hurricane to make landfall anywhere in the United States in two years. The last one was Hurricane Milton in 2024 that slammed into Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm on October 9, 2024. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Alabama Governor Kay Ivey have declared states of emergency. The entire west end of Dauphin Island in Alabama and Zones A and B in Okaloosa County in Florida are under evacuation order.

The National Hurricane Center declared Isaias a Category 1 hurricane late Wednesday night. &nbsp;It is now the first hurricane in the Atlantic this season. Storm surge and tornado warnings have been issued as it moves to make landfall on the Gulf Coast on October 9.&nbsp;

Atlantic hurricane Isaias could make landfall as a strong Category 2 storm, tornado warnings issued

Countdown has began for US Midterms elections scheduled on Nov 3. Both Republicans and Democrats are on campaign trail in an election that US President Donald Trump said would be a referendum for his administration. This article particularly examines the role of Muslim voters in the US – who have wandered from Republican roots to Democratic realignment. With Trump's anti-Muslim rhetoric, their role in spoiling the number game for Republicans gets even more interesting.&nbsp;<h3>From past to present</h3>Till 2000s, major Muslim organisations endorsed George W. Bush. Voters aligned with the GOP's conservative social values and fiscal policies. Crucially, Bush campaigned on ending the use of "secret evidence," which the community viewed as a tool for ethnic and racial profiling. However, things changed after the 9/11 attacks. The September 11 attacks fundamentally transformed the community's domestic reality. The introduction of the Patriot Act, surveillance programs and widespread racial profiling pushed many Muslim voters towards the Democratic Party.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-why-the-latino-vote-could-shape-control-of-congress-1791401910853">US midterms 2026: Why the Latino vote could shape control of Congress</a>&nbsp;Since then, Muslim communities have felt the “institutional exclusion” in the US when it came to Republicans. Muslim voters voted overwhelmingly for Joe Biden in 2020 (around 65% to 70%) to counter explicit xenophobia, as per reports. However, disillusionment over the Biden administration's handling of the Israel-Hamas war contributed to a sharp decline in support for the Democratic ticket. Cut to present, under Donald Trump, the travel ban on several Muslim-majority nations has reinforced a sense of institutional exclusion. Concerns over domestic profiling, discrimination and anti-Muslim rhetoric has only increased under Trump. Adding to this, in the geopolitical reality. While domestic civil liberties had long kept many Muslim voters within the Democratic coalition, the Palestinian cause remained a major source of friction over US foreign policy in the West Asia. Trump administration has been a strong ally of Israel and is seen to have backed Gaza war, despite Trump's attempt to be a peacemaker with his ‘Board of Peace.’&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-where-does-trump-s-approval-rating-stand-today-1791271237485">US midterms 2026: Where does Trump’s approval rating stand today?</a>&nbsp;Now, a significant section of the Muslim electorate have also turned to third-party candidates. A CAIR national exit poll cited in the copy showed Jill Stein receiving 53% of the Muslim vote, followed by Donald Trump at 21% and Kamala Harris at 20%. In critical swing states like Michigan, the "uncommitted" movement actively used electoral leverage to protest US military aid to Israel. The spectacular victory of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani can be seen as an example of the community's choices. While being Democrat, Mamdani has projected himself more like a socialist – with Trump calling him a ‘radical’ - much to his satisfaction, it seems. &nbsp;<h3>A growing political infrastructure</h3>With 255 Muslims reportedly serving in public office across 26 states, Muslim Americans are building a stronger political presence at the local and state levels. The community enters the next political cycle less as a reliable partisan bloc and more as a highly mobilised constituency balancing two priorities: domestic civil liberties and representation at home, and US foreign policy, particularly on Palestine, abroad.

As the November 3 US midterms approach, Muslim American voters are emerging as a politically fluid constituency. Once aligned with Republicans, many shifted towards Democrats after 9/11, while Gaza, civil liberties and Trump's rhetoric have since pushed parts of the electorate elsewhere

Countdown has began for US Midterms elections scheduled on Nov 3. Both Republicans and Democrats are on campaign trail in an election that US President Donald Trump said would be a referendum for his administration. This article particularly examines the role of Muslim voters in the US – who have wandered from Republican roots to Democratic realignment. With Trump's anti-Muslim rhetoric, their role in spoiling the number game for Republicans gets even more interesting. From past to present Till 2000s, major Muslim organisations endorsed George W. Bush. Voters aligned with the GOP's conservative social values and fiscal policies. Crucially, Bush campaigned on ending the use of "secret evidence," which the community viewed as a tool for ethnic and racial profiling. However, things changed after the 9/11 attacks. The September 11 attacks fundamentally transformed the community's domestic reality. The introduction of the Patriot Act, surveillance programs and widespread racial profiling pushed many Muslim voters towards the Democratic Party. Also Read: US midterms 2026: Why the Latino vote could shape control of Congress Since then, Muslim communities have felt the “institutional exclusion” in the US when it came to Republicans. Muslim voters voted overwhelmingly for Joe Biden in 2020 (around 65% to 70%) to counter explicit xenophobia, as per reports. However, disillusionment over the Biden administration's handling of the Israel-Hamas war contributed to a sharp decline in support for the Democratic ticket. Cut to present, under Donald Trump, the travel ban on several Muslim-majority nations has reinforced a sense of institutional exclusion. Concerns over domestic profiling, discrimination and anti-Muslim rhetoric has only increased under Trump. Adding to this, in the geopolitical reality. While domestic civil liberties had long kept many Muslim voters within the Democratic coalition, the Palestinian cause remained a major source of friction over US foreign policy in the West Asia. Trump administration has been a strong ally of Israel and is seen to have backed Gaza war, despite Trump's attempt to be a peacemaker with his ‘Board of Peace.’ Also Read: US midterms 2026: Where does Trump’s approval rating stand today? Now, a significant section of the Muslim electorate have also turned to third-party candidates. A CAIR national exit poll cited in the copy showed Jill Stein receiving 53% of the Muslim vote, followed by Donald Trump at 21% and Kamala Harris at 20%. In critical swing states like Michigan, the "uncommitted" movement actively used electoral leverage to protest US military aid to Israel. The spectacular victory of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani can be seen as an example of the community's choices. While being Democrat, Mamdani has projected himself more like a socialist – with Trump calling him a ‘radical’ - much to his satisfaction, it seems. A growing political infrastructure With 255 Muslims reportedly serving in public office across 26 states, Muslim Americans are building a stronger political presence at the local and state levels. The community enters the next political cycle less as a reliable partisan bloc and more as a highly mobilised constituency balancing two priorities: domestic civil liberties and representation at home, and US foreign policy, particularly on Palestine, abroad.

As the November 3 US midterms approach, Muslim American voters are emerging as a politically fluid constituency. Once aligned with Republicans, many shifted towards Democrats after 9/11, while Gaza, civil liberties and Trump's rhetoric have since pushed parts of the electorate elsewhere

US Midterms: How Palestine, Iran war, and Trump's rhetoric will shape Muslim vote

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shared a Lego-style video depicting the October 7 Hamas attack and Israel's subsequent war in Gaza, using the animated clip to reject accusations that Israel is committing genocide in the Palestinian territory. The one-minute-19-second video was posted on the official X account of the Prime Minister of Israel late Tuesday (Oct 06), a day before Israel marked the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attack.The video recreates the Hamas assault using Lego figures, showing militants abducting Israeli civilians before shifting to Israel's military operation in Gaza. It depicts Israeli soldiers entering tunnels through what appears to be a kitchen and later presents a classroom-style discussion about the legal definition of genocide.Its caption reads, "Terrorism is Not a Game. Remember October 7th."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/october-7-three-years-later-haunting-images-that-captured-the-horror-of-the-hamas-attack-on-israel-1791349365953">October 7, three years later: Haunting images that captured the horror of the Hamas attack on Israel</a><h2>What does Netanyahu's Lego video say?</h2>The clip opens with protesters, apparently in London, holding a sign that reads, "Israel commits genocide." It then asks: "Do the facts support this accusation?"The narrator says Hamas invaded Israeli communities on October 7, "massacred civilians and took hostages", while highlighting statements by a senior Hamas leader about repeating the attack.The video says Israel's stated objective in Gaza is to prevent Hamas from being able to carry out another attack on Israeli communities. It also accuses Hamas of building military infrastructure inside civilian neighbourhoods and beneath streets, portraying Israeli soldiers as fighting through those areas while suffering casualties.The clip then turns to the meaning of genocide. A teacher tells students that genocide requires a specific intent to annihilate a national, ethnic, racial or religious group, in whole or in part.The video also highlights Israel's claims that it issued millions of evacuation warnings, facilitated deliveries of food, water and medicine, and agreed to pauses that allowed a polio vaccination campaign to reach nearly 560,000 children in Gaza.It concludes by arguing that the war can end only if Hamas disarms.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secret-technology-in-china-s-hands-missed-email-blamed-for-sensitive-f-35-jet-parts-reaching-hong-kong-1791445576903">US secret technology in China’s hands? Missed email blamed for sensitive F-35 jet parts reaching Hong Kong</a><h2>Genocide allegations against Israel</h2>Israel has repeatedly rejected allegations that its military campaign in Gaza amounts to genocide. The issue remains the subject of international legal and political dispute.A UN independent commission of inquiry has concluded that Israel committed genocide in Gaza, while organisations including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have also accused Israel of genocidal acts.Proceedings brought by South Africa against Israel under the Genocide Convention remain before the International Court of Justice.There's also a separate case at the International Criminal Court involving Netanyahu. In November 2024, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The court said there were reasonable grounds to believe he was responsible for the alleged war crimes of starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population, as well as the alleged crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts.Netanyahu has rejected the allegations and described the ICC's action as antisemitic.<h2>October 7 attack and Gaza war</h2>The Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023 killed about 1,200 people and resulted in 251 people being taken hostage, according to current reporting.Israel responded with a major military campaign in Gaza. Gaza health authorities now report more than 74,000 Palestinian deaths since the start of the war. Much of Gaza's infrastructure has been destroyed or damaged, while the majority of the territory's population has experienced repeated displacement and severe humanitarian hardship.

Netanyahu has released a striking Lego-style video recreating the October 7 Hamas attack and Israel’s war in Gaza. The clip directly addresses genocide allegations against Israel — but what exactly does it claim?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shared a Lego-style video depicting the October 7 Hamas attack and Israel's subsequent war in Gaza, using the animated clip to reject accusations that Israel is committing genocide in the Palestinian territory. The one-minute-19-second video was posted on the official X account of the Prime Minister of Israel late Tuesday (Oct 06), a day before Israel marked the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attack. The video recreates the Hamas assault using Lego figures, showing militants abducting Israeli civilians before shifting to Israel's military operation in Gaza. It depicts Israeli soldiers entering tunnels through what appears to be a kitchen and later presents a classroom-style discussion about the legal definition of genocide. Its caption reads, "Terrorism is Not a Game. Remember October 7th." Also read | October 7, three years later: Haunting images that captured the horror of the Hamas attack on Israel What does Netanyahu's Lego video say? The clip opens with protesters, apparently in London, holding a sign that reads, "Israel commits genocide." It then asks: "Do the facts support this accusation?" The narrator says Hamas invaded Israeli communities on October 7, "massacred civilians and took hostages", while highlighting statements by a senior Hamas leader about repeating the attack. The video says Israel's stated objective in Gaza is to prevent Hamas from being able to carry out another attack on Israeli communities. It also accuses Hamas of building military infrastructure inside civilian neighbourhoods and beneath streets, portraying Israeli soldiers as fighting through those areas while suffering casualties. The clip then turns to the meaning of genocide. A teacher tells students that genocide requires a specific intent to annihilate a national, ethnic, racial or religious group, in whole or in part. The video also highlights Israel's claims that it issued millions of evacuation warnings, facilitated deliveries of food, water and medicine, and agreed to pauses that allowed a polio vaccination campaign to reach nearly 560,000 children in Gaza. It concludes by arguing that the war can end only if Hamas disarms. Also read | US secret technology in China’s hands? Missed email blamed for sensitive F-35 jet parts reaching Hong Kong Genocide allegations against Israel Israel has repeatedly rejected allegations that its military campaign in Gaza amounts to genocide. The issue remains the subject of international legal and political dispute. A UN independent commission of inquiry has concluded that Israel committed genocide in Gaza, while organisations including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have also accused Israel of genocidal acts. Proceedings brought by South Africa against Israel under the Genocide Convention remain before the International Court of Justice. There's also a separate case at the International Criminal Court involving Netanyahu. In November 2024, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The court said there were reasonable grounds to believe he was responsible for the alleged war crimes of starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population, as well as the alleged crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts. Netanyahu has rejected the allegations and described the ICC's action as antisemitic. October 7 attack and Gaza war The Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023 killed about 1,200 people and resulted in 251 people being taken hostage, according to current reporting. Israel responded with a major military campaign in Gaza. Gaza health authorities now report more than 74,000 Palestinian deaths since the start of the war. Much of Gaza's infrastructure has been destroyed or damaged, while the majority of the territory's population has experienced repeated displacement and severe humanitarian hardship.

Netanyahu has released a striking Lego-style video recreating the October 7 Hamas attack and Israel’s war in Gaza. The clip directly addresses genocide allegations against Israel — but what exactly does it claim?

Netanyahu posts Lego video denying Israel is committing genocide in Gaza on October 7 anniversary

A Wall Street Journal report has claimed that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent spat in his own food and stormed out of a Washington, D.C., restaurant after being confronted by anti-war protesters. The report is part of a larger investigation into Bessent's management style and work conduct in the 20 months in office in the administration of President Donald Trump.<h2>What happened with Bessent in the DC restaurant?</h2>Last December, Code Pink members interrupted Bessent's dinner. The activist group criticised the Trump administration's use of economic sanctions. Describing the protesters as ignorant, Bessent got angry with the restaurant's owner for failing to remove them. As per the owner and a nearby diner, Bessent then spat in his food before leaving, claimed the WSJ report.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bessent-he-lifeng-us-china-talks-trump-xi-summit-trade-ai-1789928530751">Bessent meets China’s He Lifeng to prepare for Trump-Xi summit</a><h2>Bessent is on short fuse? What his aides think of him</h2>The paper called this evidence of Bessent's volatile temperament, with its report relying on interviews with more than 30 current and former officials. In the high-pressure environment at the Treasury Department, aides discuss Bessent's mood before approaching him, and they feel relieved when he is away from the office, said the report.&nbsp;It also calimed that Bessent's behaviour was a factor in the departure of several senior officials.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-bessent-unveils-economic-d-day-sanctions-on-iran-1787643625446/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-bessent-unveils-economic-d-day-sanctions-on-iran-1787643625446/embed</a><h2>Binders fly in Bessent's Treasury office</h2>Bessent became angry over the organisation of his daily briefing book and threw a binder containing papers against a wall, an account he denied to the Journal.In January, he confronted John Hurley, then undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, over the pace of a probe into alleged fraud in Minnesota's Somali community. Bessent yelled profanities at Hurley so that staff nearby could hear, claimed the report.&nbsp;Hurley later left the Treasury and was appointed the US envoy to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).The Journal reported that seven Senate-confirmed Treasury officials left the department by the end of August, compared with zero to two departures during similar periods under the previous four administrations, even as several key positions remain vacant.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-hails-global-crackdown-on-iranian-banks-and-airlines-1790495066849">US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hails global crackdown on Iranian banks and airlines</a><h2>Bessent has Trump's backing despite not delivering on promises and plans</h2>Bessent had been promoting Trump's "3-3-3" economic strategy: 3 per cent GDP growth, a budget deficit at 3 per cent of GDP by 2028, and three million barrels of additional daily oil production. Currently, however, the GDP growth of US has remained around 2 per cent, oil output has risen by less than one million barrels a day, and the deficit is above 6 per cent of GDP. US government debt meanwhile, surpassed $40 trillion.But Trump has said he likes Bessent's "feisty public persona". Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon described Bessent as a good person with a "a tripwire and ... a temper".The Treasury Department meanwhile defended Bessent, saying he approaches the job with "responsibility and urgency" and has high expectations for the department. The White House defended his management style, citing professionalism and accountability.

A Wall Street Journal report details Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s alleged short temper, including a restaurant confrontation with protesters, outbursts at staff, and departures of officials from his department. Despite not delivering on his promises, Trump administration defends him

A Wall Street Journal report has claimed that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent spat in his own food and stormed out of a Washington, D.C., restaurant after being confronted by anti-war protesters. The report is part of a larger investigation into Bessent's management style and work conduct in the 20 months in office in the administration of President Donald Trump. What happened with Bessent in the DC restaurant? Last December, Code Pink members interrupted Bessent's dinner. The activist group criticised the Trump administration's use of economic sanctions. Describing the protesters as ignorant, Bessent got angry with the restaurant's owner for failing to remove them. As per the owner and a nearby diner, Bessent then spat in his food before leaving, claimed the WSJ report. Also read: Bessent meets China’s He Lifeng to prepare for Trump-Xi summit Bessent is on short fuse? What his aides think of him The paper called this evidence of Bessent's volatile temperament, with its report relying on interviews with more than 30 current and former officials. In the high-pressure environment at the Treasury Department, aides discuss Bessent's mood before approaching him, and they feel relieved when he is away from the office, said the report. It also calimed that Bessent's behaviour was a factor in the departure of several senior officials. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-bessent-unveils-economic-d-day-sanctions-on-iran-1787643625446/embed Binders fly in Bessent's Treasury office Bessent became angry over the organisation of his daily briefing book and threw a binder containing papers against a wall, an account he denied to the Journal. In January, he confronted John Hurley, then undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, over the pace of a probe into alleged fraud in Minnesota's Somali community. Bessent yelled profanities at Hurley so that staff nearby could hear, claimed the report. Hurley later left the Treasury and was appointed the US envoy to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The Journal reported that seven Senate-confirmed Treasury officials left the department by the end of August, compared with zero to two departures during similar periods under the previous four administrations, even as several key positions remain vacant. Also read: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hails global crackdown on Iranian banks and airlines Bessent has Trump's backing despite not delivering on promises and plans Bessent had been promoting Trump's "3-3-3" economic strategy: 3 per cent GDP growth, a budget deficit at 3 per cent of GDP by 2028, and three million barrels of additional daily oil production. Currently, however, the GDP growth of US has remained around 2 per cent, oil output has risen by less than one million barrels a day, and the deficit is above 6 per cent of GDP. US government debt meanwhile, surpassed $40 trillion. But Trump has said he likes Bessent's "feisty public persona". Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon described Bessent as a good person with a "a tripwire and ... a temper". The Treasury Department meanwhile defended Bessent, saying he approaches the job with "responsibility and urgency" and has high expectations for the department. The White House defended his management style, citing professionalism and accountability.

A Wall Street Journal report details Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s alleged short temper, including a restaurant confrontation with protesters, outbursts at staff, and departures of officials from his department. Despite not delivering on his promises, Trump administration defends him

Scott Bessent spat in his food after protesters confronted him at restaurant, threw binders, yelled at officials, claims report

India on Thursday (Oct 8) condemned the attacks targeting airports in Riyadh, which have resulted in civilian deaths and injuries. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said, "India condemns the attacks over the past few days targeting Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which have resulted in civilian deaths and injuries. The targeting of civilian infrastructure is completely unacceptable. We express our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We wish speedy recovery for those injured. We express solidarity and stand with the people and government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."&nbsp;The statement by India comes after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group ​said on ‌Thursday it had attacked King ​Khalid ​International Airport in the ⁠Saudi capital ​Riyadh with ​a ballistic missile.&nbsp;Three people have been killed in attacks on Saudi Arabia airports over two days, authorities said.&nbsp;Two people were killed and 28 wounded in an attack at Abha International Airport, while one person was killed and eight were wounded in an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabiya capital Riyadh.&nbsp;Earlier, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said on Monday that it had carried out strikes against ‘military targets’ belonging to the Iran-backed Houthis in Hodeida, a key port city on Yemen’s Red Sea coast. Coalition spokesman Turki Al-Malki said on X that naval forces had destroyed weapons depots, facilities storing booby-trapped boats and naval mines as part of the operation. He added that the coalition had also thwarted a planned attack targeting waterways in the southern Red Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The statement by India comes after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group ​said on ‌Thursday it had attacked King ​Khalid ​International Airport in the ⁠Saudi capital ​Riyadh with ​a ballistic missile.

India on Thursday (Oct 8) condemned the attacks targeting airports in Riyadh, which have resulted in civilian deaths and injuries. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said, "India condemns the attacks over the past few days targeting Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which have resulted in civilian deaths and injuries. The targeting of civilian infrastructure is completely unacceptable. We express our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We wish speedy recovery for those injured. We express solidarity and stand with the people and government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia." The statement by India comes after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group said on ‌Thursday it had attacked King Khalid International Airport in the ⁠Saudi capital Riyadh with a ballistic missile. Three people have been killed in attacks on Saudi Arabia airports over two days, authorities said. Two people were killed and 28 wounded in an attack at Abha International Airport, while one person was killed and eight were wounded in an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabiya capital Riyadh. Earlier, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said on Monday that it had carried out strikes against ‘military targets’ belonging to the Iran-backed Houthis in Hodeida, a key port city on Yemen’s Red Sea coast. Coalition spokesman Turki Al-Malki said on X that naval forces had destroyed weapons depots, facilities storing booby-trapped boats and naval mines as part of the operation. He added that the coalition had also thwarted a planned attack targeting waterways in the southern Red Sea.

The statement by India comes after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group ​said on ‌Thursday it had attacked King ​Khalid ​International Airport in the ⁠Saudi capital ​Riyadh with ​a ballistic missile.

'Targeting civilian infrastructure unacceptable': India condemns attack on Riyadh international airport

Syria’s information ministry on Wednesday (October 7) denied claims that Damascus is getting involved in the Yemen war. It reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia amid ongoing escalation with the Houthis, saying “Syria’s policy in the region is focused on stability, peace and cooperation, not opening new fronts.” "Syria’s position is clear: we stand firmly with Saudi Arabia against threats to its security and stability," the ministry said in a post on social media platform X, and added that the country's priority is "rebuilding the country, strengthening its institutions, working with our partners on reconstruction and improving the lives of Syrians". The ministry also confirmed that any involvement from Syria would come only through official channels and existing bilateral frameworks.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Syria’s position is clear: we stand firmly with Saudi Arabia against threats to its security and stability.

At the same time, Syria’s policy in the region is focused on stability, peace and cooperation, not opening new fronts.

Our priority is Syria: rebuilding the country, strengthening its institutions, working with our partners on reconstruction and improving the lives of Syrians.

Any military cooperation with partner countries would take place only through official channels and existing bilateral frameworks.&mdash; Syrian Response (@SyrianResponse) <a href="https://x.com/SyrianResponse/status/2107880991289184366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secret-technology-in-china-s-hands-missed-email-blamed-for-sensitive-f-35-jet-parts-reaching-hong-kong-1791445576903">US secret technology in China’s hands? Missed email blamed for sensitive F-35 jet parts reaching Hong Kong</a><h3>Absolute priority</h3>The directorate stated that Damascus’ “absolute priority” has always been Syria itself, including rebuilding the country, strengthening state institutions, working alongside partners focusing on reconstruction efforts and improving living conditions for Syrians. It further announced that any military cooperation with partner nations will happen only through official channels and existing bilateral frameworks. The statement followed media reports that Saudi Arabia and Syria were discussing possible Syrian military cooperation amid the ongoing war in Yemen, including the potential deployment of Syrian troops to support Saudi-backed Yemeni forces against the Houthis. It comes as fighting in Yemen intensifies and Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia continue, with the Saudi-led coalition stepping up military operations against Houthi positions. Saudi Arabia has led a military coalition backing Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Houthis since March 2015.

The statement came after several media reports claiming that Saudi Arabia and Syria were discussing possible Syrian military cooperation amid the ongoing war in Yemen, including the potential deployment of Syrian troops to support Saudi-backed Yemeni forces against the Houthis.

Syria’s information ministry on Wednesday (October 7) denied claims that Damascus is getting involved in the Yemen war. It reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia amid ongoing escalation with the Houthis, saying “Syria’s policy in the region is focused on stability, peace and cooperation, not opening new fronts.” "Syria’s position is clear: we stand firmly with Saudi Arabia against threats to its security and stability," the ministry said in a post on social media platform X, and added that the country's priority is "rebuilding the country, strengthening its institutions, working with our partners on reconstruction and improving the lives of Syrians". The ministry also confirmed that any involvement from Syria would come only through official channels and existing bilateral frameworks.

The statement came after several media reports claiming that Saudi Arabia and Syria were discussing possible Syrian military cooperation amid the ongoing war in Yemen, including the potential deployment of Syrian troops to support Saudi-backed Yemeni forces against the Houthis.

'No new fronts': Syria denies involvement in Yemen war, reaffirms support for Saudi Arabia

In latest effort from the Trump administration to crack down on foreign enrollment, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a $70,000 fee for every foreign student seeking to participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme aimed at allowing students to work in jobs related to their filed of study.&nbsp;DHS' new proposal will also require schools to pay $30,000 per student for every subsequent OPT recommendation.&nbsp;Students are generally eligible for one year of work post-graduation, but those pursuing science, technology, engineering, math or any other majors are given additional two years.&nbsp;This comes as a major blow to American colleges and universities that seek foreign enrolments for higher tuition revenue. Tech companies and industries that hire international students for technical roles will also face problems if the proposed rules come into effect.&nbsp;The DHS argues that measure is an effort to check fraud and abuse in the OPT programme, strengthen the immigration system and protect US workers.&nbsp;The proposal, which gives public a 60 day window to comment, is likely to face legal challenges from higher education groups or business associations.&nbsp;The Trump administration is trying to adopt measures &nbsp;to crack down on immigration and reshape higher education.&nbsp;<h2>Judge blocks Trump new international student restrictions rule</h2>&nbsp;Last month, the Department of Homeland Security’s rule of limiting how long international students can stay in the country was blocked by a &nbsp;federal judge. The US District Judge F Dennis Saylor in Boston postponed the rule as part of a lawsuit by a coalition of unions and higher education advocacy groups challenging the policy which was going to come into effect.&nbsp;The agency had cited national security and the need to prevent fraud ​in the visa program as reasons for adopting the policy which was rejected by Saylor, who said the policy was based on "exceptionally weak" rationales.&nbsp;According to the current policy, F visas for international students and J visas that allows visitors on cultural exchange programs to work in the U.S. would be capped at four years, while I visas for journalists, which currently can last years, would be up ​to 240 days.&nbsp;

This comes as a major blow not only to international students but also to American colleges and universities that seek foreign enrolments for higher tuition revenue. 

In latest effort from the Trump administration to crack down on foreign enrollment, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a $70,000 fee for every foreign student seeking to participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme aimed at allowing students to work in jobs related to their filed of study. DHS' new proposal will also require schools to pay $30,000 per student for every subsequent OPT recommendation. Students are generally eligible for one year of work post-graduation, but those pursuing science, technology, engineering, math or any other majors are given additional two years. This comes as a major blow to American colleges and universities that seek foreign enrolments for higher tuition revenue. Tech companies and industries that hire international students for technical roles will also face problems if the proposed rules come into effect. The DHS argues that measure is an effort to check fraud and abuse in the OPT programme, strengthen the immigration system and protect US workers. The proposal, which gives public a 60 day window to comment, is likely to face legal challenges from higher education groups or business associations. The Trump administration is trying to adopt measures to crack down on immigration and reshape higher education. Judge blocks Trump new international student restrictions rule Last month, the Department of Homeland Security’s rule of limiting how long international students can stay in the country was blocked by a federal judge. The US District Judge F Dennis Saylor in Boston postponed the rule as part of a lawsuit by a coalition of unions and higher education advocacy groups challenging the policy which was going to come into effect. The agency had cited national security and the need to prevent fraud in the visa program as reasons for adopting the policy which was rejected by Saylor, who said the policy was based on "exceptionally weak" rationales. According to the current policy, F visas for international students and J visas that allows visitors on cultural exchange programs to work in the U.S. would be capped at four years, while I visas for journalists, which currently can last years, would be up to 240 days.

This comes as a major blow not only to international students but also to American colleges and universities that seek foreign enrolments for higher tuition revenue.&nbsp;

Trump administration proposes $70,000 fee for international students to work in US

In September 2026, news broke that China may have gained access to sensitive components of the highly classified F-35 jets that were on their way from Australia to the United States for repairs. At the time, the one question being raised repeatedly was, 'How could Beijing have gotten its hands on the technology used in the highly classified aircraft?' Now, reports suggest that a missed email may be to blame for sensitive US weapons technology falling into the hands of a US adversary.<h2>What happened?</h2>Sensitive components from the F-35 fighter jet were unexpectedly diverted to Hong Kong this summer while being shipped from Australia to the United States for repairs, according to reports. This raised concerns in Washington that China could gain access to technology used in the highly classified aircraft.The shipment was reportedly being moved by an intermediary working for F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin when it was rerouted while crossing the Pacific, according to three people familiar with the matter. The Pentagon also confirmed that some F-35 components went missing. The parts eventually turned up in Hong Kong.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-have-gained-access-to-us-s-classified-f-35-jets-parts-meant-for-repairs-diverted-to-hong-kong-sparking-pentagon-inquiry-1789789538070">China may have gained access to US's classified F-35 jets; parts meant for repairs diverted to Hong Kong, sparking Pentagon inquiry</a><h2>Missed email leads to monumental secret technology compromise</h2>As per a Bloomberg report, an employee of United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS) allegedly missed an email warning not to route the shipment containing an F-35 cockpit canopy and weapons-bay door coated in radar-absorbing material through Hong Kong.Citing people in the know, the publication reported that the email from freight forwarder firm DSV A/S, working on behalf of Lockheed Martin, had alerted that the classified technology must not transit through certain countries to comply with the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Notably, ITAR rules are meant, in part, to keep sensitive technology from being compromised.However, the shipment with warplane parts which was meant to travel to San Francisco via US defence partners South Korea and Taiwan was delayed in Australia. This led to the shipment being mistakenly rerouted through Hong Kong to speed up the delivery.According to the report, the email may have been sent through a different IT system than the one used by the UPS agent.<h2>Why does the missing shipment matter?</h2>One of the missing components was an F-35 canopy. This part of the aircraft is more than just a protective cover for the cockpit. It incorporates stealth technology designed to reduce the aircraft's radar signature. An adversary with access to an actual canopy could study its materials and construction and potentially use that information to improve or verify intelligence already obtained through espionage.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-turkey-still-barred-from-f-35-program-until-it-gives-up-russian-s-400-system-report-1784958381256">US says Turkey still barred from F-35 program until it gives up Russian S-400 system: Report</a>According to J.J. Gertler, a former House Armed Services Committee staff member and military aviation analyst at the Congressional Research Service, China had long sought information on the F-35. “It’s no secret that China has been aggressively trying to get F-35 data through electronic espionage, among other means,” Gertler said previously.He added that possessing an actual component could give Chinese intelligence “even more to go on” and help verify or refine information obtained through other means.Diana Maurer, who oversees F-35 support reviews at the non-partisan Government Accountability Office, said that the missing shipment was a "big deal" and that the Chinese must have gotten "busy trying to reverse engineer it and figure out how to counter it with their own technical capabilities".

A shipment carrying sensitive F-35 components was unexpectedly diverted to Hong Kong, raising fears that China could gain access to US stealth technology. Now, a missed email warning may explain how the shipment took the wrong route.

In September 2026, news broke that China may have gained access to sensitive components of the highly classified F-35 jets that were on their way from Australia to the United States for repairs. At the time, the one question being raised repeatedly was, 'How could Beijing have gotten its hands on the technology used in the highly classified aircraft?' Now, reports suggest that a missed email may be to blame for sensitive US weapons technology falling into the hands of a US adversary. What happened? Sensitive components from the F-35 fighter jet were unexpectedly diverted to Hong Kong this summer while being shipped from Australia to the United States for repairs, according to reports. This raised concerns in Washington that China could gain access to technology used in the highly classified aircraft. The shipment was reportedly being moved by an intermediary working for F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin when it was rerouted while crossing the Pacific, according to three people familiar with the matter. The Pentagon also confirmed that some F-35 components went missing. The parts eventually turned up in Hong Kong. Also read | China may have gained access to US's classified F-35 jets; parts meant for repairs diverted to Hong Kong, sparking Pentagon inquiry Missed email leads to monumental secret technology compromise As per a Bloomberg report, an employee of United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS) allegedly missed an email warning not to route the shipment containing an F-35 cockpit canopy and weapons-bay door coated in radar-absorbing material through Hong Kong. Citing people in the know, the publication reported that the email from freight forwarder firm DSV A/S, working on behalf of Lockheed Martin, had alerted that the classified technology must not transit through certain countries to comply with the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Notably, ITAR rules are meant, in part, to keep sensitive technology from being compromised. However, the shipment with warplane parts which was meant to travel to San Francisco via US defence partners South Korea and Taiwan was delayed in Australia. This led to the shipment being mistakenly rerouted through Hong Kong to speed up the delivery. According to the report, the email may have been sent through a different IT system than the one used by the UPS agent. Why does the missing shipment matter? One of the missing components was an F-35 canopy. This part of the aircraft is more than just a protective cover for the cockpit. It incorporates stealth technology designed to reduce the aircraft's radar signature. An adversary with access to an actual canopy could study its materials and construction and potentially use that information to improve or verify intelligence already obtained through espionage. Also read | US says Turkey still barred from F-35 program until it gives up Russian S-400 system: Report According to J.J. Gertler, a former House Armed Services Committee staff member and military aviation analyst at the Congressional Research Service, China had long sought information on the F-35. “It’s no secret that China has been aggressively trying to get F-35 data through electronic espionage, among other means,” Gertler said previously. He added that possessing an actual component could give Chinese intelligence “even more to go on” and help verify or refine information obtained through other means. Diana Maurer, who oversees F-35 support reviews at the non-partisan Government Accountability Office, said that the missing shipment was a "big deal" and that the Chinese must have gotten "busy trying to reverse engineer it and figure out how to counter it with their own technical capabilities".

A shipment carrying sensitive F-35 components was unexpectedly diverted to Hong Kong, raising fears that China could gain access to US stealth technology. Now, a missed email warning may explain how the shipment took the wrong route.

US secret technology in China’s hands? Missed email blamed for sensitive F-35 jet parts reaching Hong Kong

Donald Trump once again left people wondering about his mental faculties during a meeting at the Oval Office on Wednesday (Oct 7). Not only did he struggle to stay awake in the midst of journalists and his administrative team, but he also said something so bizarre that left everyone watching wondering if he was seriously saying the words. His latest gaffe comes at a time when he again pitched himself for the Nobel Peace Prize, after repeatedly asking for it last year. Critics have dubbed Trump "deranged" for his bizarre antics, with California Governor Gavin Newsom recently saying he is "mentally ill."&nbsp;The 80-year-old was practically snoozing at the Oval meeting as venture capitalist Brad Gerstner praised his “Trump Accounts” for American children in front of the press. And when he was shaken out of his slumber by a journalist with a question on the plague scare in Russia, the American president blurted out the most unexpected thing.<h2>Trump remembers Putin's birthday when asked about the plague</h2>When asked whether he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the possible plague outbreak in Siberia, he said, "Today is his birthday. Today is Vladimir Putin’s birthday; I’m sure you’re gonna celebrate it." Trump's words caught everyone in the room by surprise.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-should-win-it-trump-renews-nobel-peace-prize-claim-ahead-of-2026-announcement-1791424780096">'I should win it': Trump renews Nobel Peace Prize claim ahead of 2026 announcement</a>&nbsp;Trump said that he had a call set up, and asked the journalist, "Are you gonna celebrate his birthday? No, I have a call set up." That the president chose to bring up Putin's birthday and the accompanying celebrations at a time when the country is in the midst of a major health scare is another example of his badly placed priorities.&nbsp;His response that he had a call set up also left many wondering whether the plan is to extend best wishes on his birthday or discuss the grave matter of plague. Going by the things he has done and said in the past, either case could be true.<h2>Trump renews calls for Nobel Peace Prize</h2>&nbsp;At the same gathering, Trump again talked about his longstanding desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. "I’ve done stuff that nobody else has ever done. I’m not bragging, I’m just telling you the facts. No president has probably ever settled any wars. I settled eight wars," Trump told reporters. He added that he is working to settle another war, adding that no other president had done it before.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-approval-ratings-hit-new-low-republican-party-faces-voter-backlash-gravitas-1791392724668/embed&nbsp;"They have a reputation for maybe not giving it to people like me. But, whether I get it or not, I have done far more. And I think it would be a great discredit to them. And I’m not saying that out of scorn; I’m saying that when you settle eight wars, and nobody’s never," he said.<h2>Questions on Trump's physical and mental health</h2>The 80-year-old has had countless such moments in this tenure as president, with snoozing during meetings on top of the list. Just last week, he fell asleep after announcing a new steel plant in Iowa. He has been seen with his eyes shut on several occasions. His mental health has been under the scanner as he continues to say the strangest things and make claims without any proof.<h2>Trump's strange statements&nbsp;</h2>He shocked the world when he threatened Iran, saying that "a whole civilisation will die tonight." Concerned politicians called to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. On Monday, at a rally in Nebraska, Trump said, "Let Iran take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles. Let them take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay." A flabbergasted Newsom said, "Donald Trump is mentally ill. TIME FOR THE 25TH!"&nbsp;He has also repeatedly claimed that he won the presidential elections thrice - 2016, 2020 and 2024 - as he continues to push his belief that he was burgled of a win in the 2020 elections. Trump has also said quite a few times that he wants to run for president again, even though the American Constitution limits it to two terms.<h2>Trump's bizarre ‘vegan’ rant at Texas rally</h2>&nbsp;At a Texas rally on Wednesday, Trump went on a bizarre tirade, telling the crowd that Melania calls him "sir" when correcting his pronunciation of the word "vegan." Trump recalled, "You know, my wife told me 'sir, you have to do me a favor — it's not vay-gan, it's vee-gan.'" He also attacked Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton's Democratic opponent, James Talarico, alleging he pretends to eat meat for political reasons in Texas, but is secretly vegan.&nbsp;"Now he says he loves meat, but he's a vegan — see, Melania? I got that right. He's a vegan. He wants to eat a piece of lettuce, a little piece of lettuce, please."&nbsp;Such strange and sudden tirades have become common for the American president who goes off the tracks every other day.

Donald Trump wants the Nobel Peace Prize, but he thinks Putin's birthday is more important than the supposed plague situation in Russia. He is also fine with Iran taking out “two US cities”, and yet he believes he is fit to become president a third time.

Donald Trump once again left people wondering about his mental faculties during a meeting at the Oval Office on Wednesday (Oct 7). Not only did he struggle to stay awake in the midst of journalists and his administrative team, but he also said something so bizarre that left everyone watching wondering if he was seriously saying the words. His latest gaffe comes at a time when he again pitched himself for the Nobel Peace Prize, after repeatedly asking for it last year. Critics have dubbed Trump "deranged" for his bizarre antics, with California Governor Gavin Newsom recently saying he is "mentally ill." The 80-year-old was practically snoozing at the Oval meeting as venture capitalist Brad Gerstner praised his “Trump Accounts” for American children in front of the press. And when he was shaken out of his slumber by a journalist with a question on the plague scare in Russia, the American president blurted out the most unexpected thing. Trump remembers Putin's birthday when asked about the plague When asked whether he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the possible plague outbreak in Siberia, he said, "Today is his birthday. Today is Vladimir Putin’s birthday; I’m sure you’re gonna celebrate it." Trump's words caught everyone in the room by surprise. Also Read: 'I should win it': Trump renews Nobel Peace Prize claim ahead of 2026 announcement Trump said that he had a call set up, and asked the journalist, "Are you gonna celebrate his birthday? No, I have a call set up." That the president chose to bring up Putin's birthday and the accompanying celebrations at a time when the country is in the midst of a major health scare is another example of his badly placed priorities. His response that he had a call set up also left many wondering whether the plan is to extend best wishes on his birthday or discuss the grave matter of plague. Going by the things he has done and said in the past, either case could be true. Trump renews calls for Nobel Peace Prize At the same gathering, Trump again talked about his longstanding desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. "I’ve done stuff that nobody else has ever done. I’m not bragging, I’m just telling you the facts. No president has probably ever settled any wars. I settled eight wars," Trump told reporters. He added that he is working to settle another war, adding that no other president had done it before. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-approval-ratings-hit-new-low-republican-party-faces-voter-backlash-gravitas-1791392724668/embed "They have a reputation for maybe not giving it to people like me. But, whether I get it or not, I have done far more. And I think it would be a great discredit to them. And I’m not saying that out of scorn; I’m saying that when you settle eight wars, and nobody’s never," he said. Questions on Trump's physical and mental health The 80-year-old has had countless such moments in this tenure as president, with snoozing during meetings on top of the list. Just last week, he fell asleep after announcing a new steel plant in Iowa. He has been seen with his eyes shut on several occasions. His mental health has been under the scanner as he continues to say the strangest things and make claims without any proof. Trump's strange statements He shocked the world when he threatened Iran, saying that "a whole civilisation will die tonight." Concerned politicians called to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. On Monday, at a rally in Nebraska, Trump said, "Let Iran take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles. Let them take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay." A flabbergasted Newsom said, "Donald Trump is mentally ill. TIME FOR THE 25TH!" He has also repeatedly claimed that he won the presidential elections thrice - 2016, 2020 and 2024 - as he continues to push his belief that he was burgled of a win in the 2020 elections. Trump has also said quite a few times that he wants to run for president again, even though the American Constitution limits it to two terms. Trump's bizarre ‘vegan’ rant at Texas rally At a Texas rally on Wednesday, Trump went on a bizarre tirade, telling the crowd that Melania calls him "sir" when correcting his pronunciation of the word "vegan." Trump recalled, "You know, my wife told me 'sir, you have to do me a favor — it's not vay-gan, it's vee-gan.'" He also attacked Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton's Democratic opponent, James Talarico, alleging he pretends to eat meat for political reasons in Texas, but is secretly vegan. "Now he says he loves meat, but he's a vegan — see, Melania? I got that right. He's a vegan. He wants to eat a piece of lettuce, a little piece of lettuce, please." Such strange and sudden tirades have become common for the American president who goes off the tracks every other day.

Donald Trump wants the Nobel Peace Prize, but he thinks Putin's birthday is more important than the supposed plague situation in Russia. He is also fine with Iran taking out “two US cities”, and yet he believes he is fit to become president a third time.

From Putin’s birthday to nuking LA: Trump’s latest bizarre ramblings fuel fresh mental health fears

India slammed Pakistan at the United Nations (UN) over its terror networks adding that even Pakistan’s leaders have begun to acknowledge it now. India also urged the international community to take stronger action against states accused of sponsoring terrorism. Exposing Islamabad's duplicity before the international community, Raghoo Puri, a first secretary in India’s UN mission, said that Islamabad has stated that the rogue Pakistani state has completely lost control of the 'Frankenstein’s monster of terrorism' it engineered.' Puri was delivering India's right of reply in response to an unprovoked tirade launched against New Delhi by Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative Usman Jadoon during proceedings at the UN General Assembly’s Sixth Committee, which handles legal affairs. “Pakistan has presented itself as a frontline state in combating terrorism and as a victim, while masking the fact that the Frankenstein’s (monster) the Pakistani state has created and lost control over have moved from wreaking havoc in neighbouring countries to doing the same in Pakistan,” said on Wednesday (local time). "This was exposed recently by a provincial chief minister of Pakistan, and may I jog the memory of colleagues to an interview in 2018 by her father and former prime minister of Pakistan, exposing this dark secret. You cannot run with the hares and hunt with the hounds," he stated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-flags-brutal-violence-in-pak-occupied-jammu-kashmir-1790407228648">India flags brutal violence in Pak-occupied Jammu Kashmir</a> Drawing international scrutiny to Islamabad's elaborate smokescreens designed to shield high-value terrorist masterminds, Puri highlighted the farcical hike in the bounty announced by Pakistan for Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, which saw the reward raised merely from Pakistani rupees 50 lakh to 70 lakh. "Pakistan glosses over its state support for terrorism by announcing enhanced rewards for apprehending UN-listed head of Jaish-e-Mohammed, terrorist and mastermind of several attacks against my country," he stated. "When the media can reach Masood Azhar and get confirmation from him about the success of Operation Sindoor, surely the Pakistani state knows his whereabouts," he pointed out. Puri cautioned that "when terrorist groups are allowed to operate under state political power, international commitments become meaningless, and when perpetrators are provided safe havens, the victims of terrorism are denied justice."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-pakistan-to-rapidly-deploy-troops-to-saudi-arabia-under-mecca-joint-defence-agreement-as-houthi-attacks-escalate-1791227340249">Turkey, Pakistan to rapidly deploy troops to Saudi Arabia under Mecca Joint Defence Agreement as Houthi attacks escalate</a><h2>Pakistan's terror record listed</h2>Recalling the tragic carnage orchestrated by the Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy, The Resistance Front, during last year's Pahalgam terror attack, he reminded the international community how the jihadists systematically singled out Hindu and Christian tourists by interrogating their religious identity prior to execution. He said that Osama bin Laden, whose al-Qaeda network masterminded the 9/11 attacks was ultimately tracked down by US Navy SEALs residing comfortably within a fortified compound situated a stone's throw from the elite Pakistan Military Academy in Abbottabad. "The world has not forgotten 26/11," when Pakistani terrorists mercilessly slaughtered 166 innocent lives across Mumbai in 2008, he stressed. “The world has not forgotten Pahalgam.”

India accused Pakistan at the UN of losing control of terror groups it had helped foster, citing remarks by Maryam Nawaz and Nawaz Sharif. Diplomat Raghoo Puri also rejected Pakistan's claims over Operation Sindoor and highlighted 26/11, Pahalgam and Masood Azhar

India slammed Pakistan at the United Nations (UN) over its terror networks adding that even Pakistan’s leaders have begun to acknowledge it now. India also urged the international community to take stronger action against states accused of sponsoring terrorism. Exposing Islamabad's duplicity before the international community, Raghoo Puri, a first secretary in India’s UN mission, said that Islamabad has stated that the rogue Pakistani state has completely lost control of the 'Frankenstein’s monster of terrorism' it engineered.' Puri was delivering India's right of reply in response to an unprovoked tirade launched against New Delhi by Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative Usman Jadoon during proceedings at the UN General Assembly’s Sixth Committee, which handles legal affairs. “Pakistan has presented itself as a frontline state in combating terrorism and as a victim, while masking the fact that the Frankenstein’s (monster) the Pakistani state has created and lost control over have moved from wreaking havoc in neighbouring countries to doing the same in Pakistan,” said on Wednesday (local time). "This was exposed recently by a provincial chief minister of Pakistan, and may I jog the memory of colleagues to an interview in 2018 by her father and former prime minister of Pakistan, exposing this dark secret. You cannot run with the hares and hunt with the hounds," he stated. Also Read: India flags brutal violence in Pak-occupied Jammu Kashmir Drawing international scrutiny to Islamabad's elaborate smokescreens designed to shield high-value terrorist masterminds, Puri highlighted the farcical hike in the bounty announced by Pakistan for Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, which saw the reward raised merely from Pakistani rupees 50 lakh to 70 lakh. "Pakistan glosses over its state support for terrorism by announcing enhanced rewards for apprehending UN-listed head of Jaish-e-Mohammed, terrorist and mastermind of several attacks against my country," he stated. "When the media can reach Masood Azhar and get confirmation from him about the success of Operation Sindoor, surely the Pakistani state knows his whereabouts," he pointed out. Puri cautioned that "when terrorist groups are allowed to operate under state political power, international commitments become meaningless, and when perpetrators are provided safe havens, the victims of terrorism are denied justice." Also Read: Turkey, Pakistan to rapidly deploy troops to Saudi Arabia under Mecca Joint Defence Agreement as Houthi attacks escalate Pakistan's terror record listed Recalling the tragic carnage orchestrated by the Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy, The Resistance Front, during last year's Pahalgam terror attack, he reminded the international community how the jihadists systematically singled out Hindu and Christian tourists by interrogating their religious identity prior to execution. He said that Osama bin Laden, whose al-Qaeda network masterminded the 9/11 attacks was ultimately tracked down by US Navy SEALs residing comfortably within a fortified compound situated a stone's throw from the elite Pakistan Military Academy in Abbottabad. "The world has not forgotten 26/11," when Pakistani terrorists mercilessly slaughtered 166 innocent lives across Mumbai in 2008, he stressed. “The world has not forgotten Pahalgam.”

India accused Pakistan at the UN of losing control of terror groups it had helped foster, citing remarks by Maryam Nawaz and Nawaz Sharif. Diplomat Raghoo Puri also rejected Pakistan's claims over Operation Sindoor and highlighted 26/11, Pahalgam and Masood Azhar

'Frankenstein’s monster': India tears into Pakistan at UN over terror links

Georgia has detained a man who planned to sell uranium-238 to a foreign national ​for $700,000, the national security service said on Wednesday (Oct 9). According to official statement, the ‌Georgian citizen was allegedly trying to sell nuclear material. The security agency shared a video of ​armed security personnel pulling a man out ⁠of a white sedan and handcuffing him on ​the ground. The investigation is being conducted under Part 1 of Article 19-230 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, covering the attempt to illegally handle nuclear material or equipment, radioactive waste, and radioactive substances. If convicted, the detainees face five to ten years in prison.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/gravitas/russia-ukraine-war-eu-fears-russian-hybrid-attack-europe-1791396194779">Russia warns Lithuania over nuclear weapons, Europe braces for massive hybrid attack</a>&nbsp;Uranium-238 is the most ‌common ⁠uranium isotope and, while radioactive, is not ordinarily usable on its own to make a nuclear bomb. The footage shared by security agency showed agents testing two small containers in the trunk of ​the vehicle with a handheld radiation detector. One ​of them appeared to contain a light-coloured powder.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-nuclear-arsenal-grows-to-190-warheads-surpasses-pakistan-1789149916200">India's nuclear arsenal grows to 190 warheads, surpasses Pakistan</a>&nbsp;The security of nuclear materials was one of the ​biggest concerns ​after the ⁠1991 fall of the Soviet Union, of which Georgia was part. There have ​been several serious incidents involving the ​illicit trade ⁠in nuclear materials in Georgia over recent decades. Earlier in February this year, the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG) detained two foreign nationals in Kutaisi for attempting to illegally purchase nuclear and radioactive materials and transport them abroad. &nbsp;The agency did not disclose the suspects’ nationality or the country where they intended to transport the materials.&nbsp;First Deputy Head of the SSSG, Lasha Magradze, had then said that the suspects were planning to “illegally purchase nuclear material uranium and radioactive substance cesium-137 for USD 3 million and transport it illegally to another country.” According to Magradze, the suspects had been regularly traveling to Georgia “in recent weeks” to arrange “favorable conditions” for acquiring and transporting the materials. He noted the substances in question are “usually used for criminal purposes, including terrorism.”&nbsp;

Georgia's State Security Service has detained a man accused of attempting to sell uranium-238 to a foreign national for $700,000. Authorities said the suspect was trying to illegally handle nuclear material, amid Georgia's history of illicit radioactive material trafficking.

Georgia has detained a man who planned to sell uranium-238 to a foreign national for $700,000, the national security service said on Wednesday (Oct 9). According to official statement, the ‌Georgian citizen was allegedly trying to sell nuclear material. The security agency shared a video of armed security personnel pulling a man out ⁠of a white sedan and handcuffing him on the ground. The investigation is being conducted under Part 1 of Article 19-230 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, covering the attempt to illegally handle nuclear material or equipment, radioactive waste, and radioactive substances. If convicted, the detainees face five to ten years in prison. Also Read: Russia warns Lithuania over nuclear weapons, Europe braces for massive hybrid attack Uranium-238 is the most ‌common ⁠uranium isotope and, while radioactive, is not ordinarily usable on its own to make a nuclear bomb. The footage shared by security agency showed agents testing two small containers in the trunk of the vehicle with a handheld radiation detector. One of them appeared to contain a light-coloured powder. Also Read: India's nuclear arsenal grows to 190 warheads, surpasses Pakistan The security of nuclear materials was one of the biggest concerns after the ⁠1991 fall of the Soviet Union, of which Georgia was part. There have been several serious incidents involving the illicit trade ⁠in nuclear materials in Georgia over recent decades. Earlier in February this year, the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG) detained two foreign nationals in Kutaisi for attempting to illegally purchase nuclear and radioactive materials and transport them abroad. The agency did not disclose the suspects’ nationality or the country where they intended to transport the materials. First Deputy Head of the SSSG, Lasha Magradze, had then said that the suspects were planning to “illegally purchase nuclear material uranium and radioactive substance cesium-137 for USD 3 million and transport it illegally to another country.” According to Magradze, the suspects had been regularly traveling to Georgia “in recent weeks” to arrange “favorable conditions” for acquiring and transporting the materials. He noted the substances in question are “usually used for criminal purposes, including terrorism.”

Georgia's State Security Service has detained a man accused of attempting to sell uranium-238 to a foreign national for $700,000. Authorities said the suspect was trying to illegally handle nuclear material, amid Georgia's history of illicit radioactive material trafficking.

Georgia man attempts to sell uranium for $700,000: Here's what happened next

Elon Musk's latest comments on Starlink's delayed entry into India have triggered a fresh debate over the country's satellite internet market, with the Tesla and SpaceX CEO accusing unnamed "oligarchs" of trying to protect their hold over India's connectivity sector. At the centre of the exchange was an X account known as DogeDesigner, whose post was amplified by Musk before he made the allegations. So, who is DogeDesigner and why does the account have such a close connection to Musk?<h2>Who is DogeDesigner?</h2>DogeDesigner is the X handle used by an account identified only as @cb_doge, who is a UX/UI and graphic designer for the DOGE team. The account is known to be associated with Dogecoin projects and frequently engages with Musk's posts.The account has developed a close association with Musk and has publicly shared posts expressing gratitude for opportunities to meet him and work around his companies and projects.In one post, DogeDesigner wrote about witnessing Starship's maiden launch and meeting Musk, whom the account referred to as "our Technoking"."I will be forever grateful for the confidence that Elon distills so kindly... 'You are talented!'... powerful words that I will always carry with me," the account said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">During the last couple of months, I’ve gained friends &amp; memories that I will cherish forever! From witnessing the Starship’s maiden launch to meeting our Technoking. I will be forever grateful for the confidence that Elon distills so kindly…”You are talented!”…powerful words that I will always carry with me. It really makes a big difference. Thank you, @elonmusk 🫡&mdash; DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) <a href="https://x.com/cb_doge/status/1666836242330275841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>How did DogeDesigner trigger the India-Starlink row?</h2>Musk's October 7 comments came in response to a post shared by DogeDesigner that cited government data on India's connectivity gap. The post claimed that 11,256 listed Indian villages still lacked 4G internet coverage as of May 2026. The supplied material notes that these figures had not been independently confirmed.Musk responded by alleging that Starlink was being blocked by unnamed "oligarchs" seeking to preserve what he called a "monopolistic chokehold" over India's people. "Unfortunately, we are being blocked by certain oligarchs to maintain their monopolistic chokehold on the Indian people. You can guess who they are …," Musk wrote.Musk has previously argued that "Starlink would help the least served in India, especially in rural areas."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/musk-alleges-oligarchs-blocking-starlink-in-india-here-is-what-we-know-so-far-1791404796061">Musk alleges ‘oligarchs’ blocking Starlink in India, here is what we know so far</a><h2>Musk denies Starlink terminals were active in India</h2>The controversy also involved claims that Starlink terminals were being used near the Manipur-Myanmar border. Musk dismissed those claims, saying they were false and technologically impossible because Starlink's beams remain deactivated over India.Starlink is awaiting completion of India's regulatory and security requirements before commercial services can begin.<h2>What has India said about Starlink's regulatory approval?</h2>India's Ministry of Communications rejected suggestions that its satellite communications framework is discriminatory. According to a PIB statement, India has granted licences to three global mobile personal communications by satellite services using non-geosynchronous satellite orbits. All three licensees are required to meet security conditions before proceeding further.The government said security assessments for all three licensees are currently under way and that all three are broadly at the same regulatory stage. It described suggestions that India's regulatory framework was unfair or discriminatory as "baseless and misconceived".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baseless-and-misconceived-india-issues-statement-after-elon-musk-s-oligarchs-claim-over-starlink-delay-1791428405437">India responds to Elon Musk's 'oligarchs' claim over Starlink delay</a><h2>Starlink says it has built India-specific infrastructure</h2>Notably, at the India Mobile Congress 2026, Starlink Vice President for Business Operations Lauren Dreyer said the company had developed India-specific security controls and built 20 gateway sites in the country.Dreyer said Starlink had established controls at every layer to meet Indian security requirements and was keeping Indian users' data within India.

Elon Musk's India-Starlink row was sparked by a post from an X account DogeDesigner, which highlighted India's rural connectivity gap. But who is behind the mysterious account? All we know of its close association with Musk and its role in the latest ‘oligarchs’ controversy.

Elon Musk's latest comments on Starlink's delayed entry into India have triggered a fresh debate over the country's satellite internet market, with the Tesla and SpaceX CEO accusing unnamed "oligarchs" of trying to protect their hold over India's connectivity sector. At the centre of the exchange was an X account known as DogeDesigner, whose post was amplified by Musk before he made the allegations. So, who is DogeDesigner and why does the account have such a close connection to Musk? Who is DogeDesigner? DogeDesigner is the X handle used by an account identified only as @cb_doge, who is a UX/UI and graphic designer for the DOGE team. The account is known to be associated with Dogecoin projects and frequently engages with Musk's posts. The account has developed a close association with Musk and has publicly shared posts expressing gratitude for opportunities to meet him and work around his companies and projects. In one post, DogeDesigner wrote about witnessing Starship's maiden launch and meeting Musk, whom the account referred to as "our Technoking". "I will be forever grateful for the confidence that Elon distills so kindly... 'You are talented!'... powerful words that I will always carry with me," the account said.

Elon Musk's India-Starlink row was sparked by a post from an X account DogeDesigner, which highlighted India's rural connectivity gap. But who is behind the mysterious account? All we know of its close association with Musk and its role in the latest ‘oligarchs’ controversy.

Who is DogeDesigner? All we know about the X account that sparked India-Musk-Starlink ‘oligarchs’ controversy

Sivarasa Anojan, a Sri Lankan migrant worker is facing death sentence in Saudi Arabia after an appellate court reportedly increased his punishment over a Facebook comment that was deemed insulting to Islam and Prophet Muhammad. The case has sparked widespread concerns in Sri Lanka. The civil society is seeking clemency while political parties and government bodies have taken diplomatic channel to seek pardon for him.&nbsp;But the 24-year-old Sivarasa Anojan's family hasn't heard anything from him or have no clue about how he is doing since 28 September.&nbsp;Anojan's mother Rasamanickam Yogalakshmi in an interview to BBC pleaded for forgiveness with the Saudi authorities and said, "I plead for mercy for the wrongs committed by my son. Please forgive him and send him back to us."&nbsp;Saudi authorities have not official said anything about the execution so far and it also remains unclear when the sentence will be carried out.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a legal delegation from Sri Lanka is travelling to Saudi Arabia this week to meet Sivarasa’s local defence lawyers.&nbsp;"There are two law firms in Saudi Arabia handling Anojan's case. We are going there to meet the lawyers from these two firms, discuss the case and plan what can be done next," one of the team, Upul Kumarapperuma, President's Counsel, told BBC Sinhala.&nbsp;<h2>What was the incident and how it happened?</h2>&nbsp;It all started with an online argument over a video in which a Muslim man was seen kicking a dog during a Hindu pilgrimage. During the argument, a user posted derogatory content against Lord Shiva to which Sivarasa replied in Tamil with an insulting comment about Prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;However, Sivarasa soon deleted the comment and posted an apology video. But someone had already complained to his employer in Saudi Arabia about the incident with a screenshot attached. After receiving the complaint the employer informed Saudi authorities, who arrested Sivarasa and seized his electronic devices.&nbsp;After his arrest in July, Sivarasa was presented before the Al-Ahsa Criminal Court that sentenced him to five years in prison and fined 3 million Saudi riyals, around $800,000. On September 17, Saudi prosecutors appealed the case and asked the court to deal with it under Sharia law instead of cybercrime laws. On the appeal, the court changed Sivarasa's sentence to death penalty.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Sivarasa Anojan's family hasn't heard anything from him or have no clue about how he is doing since 28 September.

Sivarasa Anojan, a Sri Lankan migrant worker is facing death sentence in Saudi Arabia after an appellate court reportedly increased his punishment over a Facebook comment that was deemed insulting to Islam and Prophet Muhammad. The case has sparked widespread concerns in Sri Lanka. The civil society is seeking clemency while political parties and government bodies have taken diplomatic channel to seek pardon for him. But the 24-year-old Sivarasa Anojan's family hasn't heard anything from him or have no clue about how he is doing since 28 September. Anojan's mother Rasamanickam Yogalakshmi in an interview to BBC pleaded for forgiveness with the Saudi authorities and said, "I plead for mercy for the wrongs committed by my son. Please forgive him and send him back to us." Saudi authorities have not official said anything about the execution so far and it also remains unclear when the sentence will be carried out. Meanwhile, a legal delegation from Sri Lanka is travelling to Saudi Arabia this week to meet Sivarasa’s local defence lawyers. "There are two law firms in Saudi Arabia handling Anojan's case. We are going there to meet the lawyers from these two firms, discuss the case and plan what can be done next," one of the team, Upul Kumarapperuma, President's Counsel, told BBC Sinhala. What was the incident and how it happened? It all started with an online argument over a video in which a Muslim man was seen kicking a dog during a Hindu pilgrimage. During the argument, a user posted derogatory content against Lord Shiva to which Sivarasa replied in Tamil with an insulting comment about Prophet Muhammad. However, Sivarasa soon deleted the comment and posted an apology video. But someone had already complained to his employer in Saudi Arabia about the incident with a screenshot attached. After receiving the complaint the employer informed Saudi authorities, who arrested Sivarasa and seized his electronic devices. After his arrest in July, Sivarasa was presented before the Al-Ahsa Criminal Court that sentenced him to five years in prison and fined 3 million Saudi riyals, around $800,000. On September 17, Saudi prosecutors appealed the case and asked the court to deal with it under Sharia law instead of cybercrime laws. On the appeal, the court changed Sivarasa's sentence to death penalty.

The 24-year-old Sivarasa Anojan's family hasn't heard anything from him or have no clue about how he is doing since 28 September.

Sri Lankan Tamil worker gets death sentence in Saudi Arabia over blasphemy, calls for pardon intensify

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