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

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

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

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

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

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

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

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

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

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

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday (Aug 10) made a nuclear threat against India and the world. During his ongoing visit to the United States, he warned that if his country were ever pushed to the brink in a conflict with India, it would "take half the world down" with it. Speaking at a private black-tie dinner in Tampa hosted for businessman Adnan Asad, Munir said Pakistan is a nuclear power and would use its arsenal if necessary. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River, saying India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could put hundreds of millions at risk of starvation.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan will take down "half the world"</h2>Munir, as quoted by ThePrint, noted that Pakistan was a nuclear nation and said, "if we think we are going down, we'll take half the world down with us".&nbsp;Speaking at the dinner he hosted for Adnan Asad, who serves as Pakistan's honorary consul in Tampa, he also raked up the Indus Water Treaty issue. According to ThePrint, phones and recording devices were banned at the dinner, and the Pakistani army chief's comments were later recounted by attendees.&nbsp;Watch | Pakistan suffers $14.4 MN loss after closing airspace to India<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed</a><h2>Munir's India tirade</h2>&nbsp;The Pakistani army chief, as per the report, made several references to India and the recent tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Referring to an earlier post, he said, "Ek tweet karwaya tha with Surah Fil and a picture of (the industrialist) Mukesh Ambani to show them what we will do the next time," he said. Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is the 105th chapter of the Quran, composed of 5 verses. It narrates the story of the "People of the Elephant" and how Allah protected the Ka'aba in Mecca from their attack. The surah describes how Allah sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, which destroyed the army of the elephant.&nbsp;"We'll start from India's East, where they have located their most valuable resources, and then move westwards," he announced. Using what he called a crude analogy, Munir added that "India is shining Mercedes coming on a highway like Ferrari, but we are a dump truck full of gravel. If the truck hits the car, who is going to be the loser?"&nbsp;The army chief also poked at India's recent trade disputes with the US and joked about Pakistan's diplomatic balancing skills, even saying his country nominated Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize. "The real reason for our success is that we are not misers. If someone does good work, we praise and appreciate them. That is why we nominated President Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize," he said.&nbsp;Munir was in Tampa for the change of command at US Central Command, meeting with US military leaders, including Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine. This was Munir’s second trip to the US since clashes with India in Operation Sindoor. His visit included a private lunch with Trump, after which the two announced expanded cooperation, including an oil deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, during a US visit, threatened nuclear retaliation against India, saying his country will “take half the world down.” He also vowed to destroy future Indian dams on the Indus while making multiple provocative remarks about India.

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Sunday (Aug 10) made a nuclear threat against India and the world. During his ongoing visit to the United States, he warned that if his country were ever pushed to the brink in a conflict with India, it would "take half the world down" with it. Speaking at a private black-tie dinner in Tampa hosted for businessman Adnan Asad, Munir said Pakistan is a nuclear power and would use its arsenal if necessary. He also threatened to target any future Indian dams on the Indus River, saying India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could put hundreds of millions at risk of starvation. Pakistan will take down "half the world" Munir, as quoted by ThePrint, noted that Pakistan was a nuclear nation and said, "if we think we are going down, we'll take half the world down with us". Speaking at the dinner he hosted for Adnan Asad, who serves as Pakistan's honorary consul in Tampa, he also raked up the Indus Water Treaty issue. According to ThePrint, phones and recording devices were banned at the dinner, and the Pakistani army chief's comments were later recounted by attendees. Watch | Pakistan suffers $14.4 MN loss after closing airspace to India https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-suffers-14-4-mn-loss-after-closing-airspace-to-india-1754837074932/embed Munir's India tirade The Pakistani army chief, as per the report, made several references to India and the recent tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Referring to an earlier post, he said, "Ek tweet karwaya tha with Surah Fil and a picture of (the industrialist) Mukesh Ambani to show them what we will do the next time," he said. Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant) is the 105th chapter of the Quran, composed of 5 verses. It narrates the story of the "People of the Elephant" and how Allah protected the Ka'aba in Mecca from their attack. The surah describes how Allah sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, which destroyed the army of the elephant. "We'll start from India's East, where they have located their most valuable resources, and then move westwards," he announced. Using what he called a crude analogy, Munir added that "India is shining Mercedes coming on a highway like Ferrari, but we are a dump truck full of gravel. If the truck hits the car, who is going to be the loser?" The army chief also poked at India's recent trade disputes with the US and joked about Pakistan's diplomatic balancing skills, even saying his country nominated Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize. "The real reason for our success is that we are not misers. If someone does good work, we praise and appreciate them. That is why we nominated President Donald Trump for the Nobel Prize," he said. Munir was in Tampa for the change of command at US Central Command, meeting with US military leaders, including Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine. This was Munir’s second trip to the US since clashes with India in Operation Sindoor. His visit included a private lunch with Trump, after which the two announced expanded cooperation, including an oil deal.

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, during a US visit, threatened nuclear retaliation against India, saying his country will “take half the world down.” He also vowed to destroy future Indian dams on the Indus while making multiple provocative remarks about India.

Pakistan army chief makes nuclear threat against India and world, says 'if we go down, we'll take half the world down with us'

A 6.1-magnitude quake struck Sindirgi in western Turkey on Sunday, the Turkish disaster management agency (AFAD) said on Sunday.The quake was felt across several cities in the west of the country, including Istanbul and the tourist hotspot of Izmir, said officials, who are yet to comment on any potential damages or deaths.Several buildings collapsed in the Balikesir province after the quake, according to images broadcast by Turkish media.The quake hit at 7:53 pm (1653 GMT), with a 4.6-magnitude aftershock following several minutes later, according to AFAD."All AFAD teams and the relevant institutions have immediately begun searches on the ground. No undesirable event has been flagged up till now," Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on X.Turkey is crisscrossed by several geological fault lines, which have previously caused catastrophes in the country.A quake in February 2023 in the southwest killed at least 53,000 people and devastated Antakya, the site of the ancient city of Antioch.More recently, a 5.8-magnitude tremor in the same region resulted in one death and injured 69 people at the beginning of July.

A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Sindirgi, western Turkey, on Sunday, shaking cities like Istanbul and Izmir. Several buildings collapsed in Balikesir province, followed by a 4.6-magnitude aftershock minutes later.

A 6.1-magnitude quake struck Sindirgi in western Turkey on Sunday, the Turkish disaster management agency (AFAD) said on Sunday. The quake was felt across several cities in the west of the country, including Istanbul and the tourist hotspot of Izmir, said officials, who are yet to comment on any potential damages or deaths. Several buildings collapsed in the Balikesir province after the quake, according to images broadcast by Turkish media. The quake hit at 7:53 pm (1653 GMT), with a 4.6-magnitude aftershock following several minutes later, according to AFAD. "All AFAD teams and the relevant institutions have immediately begun searches on the ground. No undesirable event has been flagged up till now," Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on X. Turkey is crisscrossed by several geological fault lines, which have previously caused catastrophes in the country. A quake in February 2023 in the southwest killed at least 53,000 people and devastated Antakya, the site of the ancient city of Antioch. More recently, a 5.8-magnitude tremor in the same region resulted in one death and injured 69 people at the beginning of July.

A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Sindirgi, western Turkey, on Sunday, shaking cities like Istanbul and Izmir. Several buildings collapsed in Balikesir province, followed by a 4.6-magnitude aftershock minutes later.

Powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake hits western Turkey; buildings collapse, aftershock follows

After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out his vision for victory in Gaza at a press conference on Sunday, Hamas slammed the Israeli leader and accused him of telling a “series of lies”. “Netanyahu continues to lie, deceive and try to mislead the public. Everything Netanyahu said in the press conference is a series of lies, and he cannot face the truth; instead, he works on distortion and hiding it,”said Taher al-Nunu, the media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, while speaking to AFP.&nbsp;Addressing media, Netanyahu said that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip. He said Hamas had a de facto state in Gaza, which it used “to launch a war of terror against Israel,” and that it will do so again if it is able.Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank “are educated with exactly the same textbooks,” and the PA maintains a “pay for slay” policy to encourage the murder of Jews, the Israeli premier said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Problem is not absence of Palestinian state’</h2>&nbsp;Bibi also dismissed “the prevailing assumption… that the problem that we have with the Palestinians is the absence of a Palestinian state. And [that] if they were given a Palestinian state, they would stop the efforts to destroy the Jewish state. But the Palestinians were offered a state many times, including in the partition resolution, and they turned it down.”&nbsp;“They were offered statehood by my predecessors, with lavish, lavish concessions. They turned it down.”This is “because the Palestinians are not about creating a state. They’re about destroying a state. That’s why they opposed the Jewish National Movement to create a state. It’s called Zionism. They opposed it before the inception of the Jewish state, and they’ve opposed it since. Their goal is the destruction of a state, Netanyahu asserted.&nbsp;“The real reason that this conflict persists is not because of the absence of a Palestinian state, but the persistent Palestinian refusal to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary,” Bibi said.&nbsp;<h2>‘If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived’</h2>&nbsp;He also denied allegations of starvation in Gaza and insisted that Israel allowed sufficient aid in throughout the war, and accused Hamas of disrupting aid flow.&nbsp;“If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” Netanyahu said, while claiming that Israel has provided two million tons of aid to Gaza since the outbreak of the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Israeli leader said that the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.&nbsp;&nbsp;Then Jews were accused of spreading vermin, poisoning wells and slaughtering Christian children for their blood, leading to pogroms and violence which ultimately culminated in the Holocaust, Netanyahu said.&nbsp;He singled out the New York Times for running a front-page photo of a “starving” Gaza boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and said he was looking into filing an Israeli government suit against the newspaper which “buried” a correction.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.

After Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu laid out his vision for victory in Gaza at a press conference on Sunday, Hamas slammed the Israeli leader and accused him of telling a “series of lies”. “Netanyahu continues to lie, deceive and try to mislead the public. Everything Netanyahu said in the press conference is a series of lies, and he cannot face the truth; instead, he works on distortion and hiding it,”said Taher al-Nunu, the media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, while speaking to AFP. Addressing media, Netanyahu said that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip. He said Hamas had a de facto state in Gaza, which it used “to launch a war of terror against Israel,” and that it will do so again if it is able. Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank “are educated with exactly the same textbooks,” and the PA maintains a “pay for slay” policy to encourage the murder of Jews, the Israeli premier said. ‘Problem is not absence of Palestinian state’ Bibi also dismissed “the prevailing assumption… that the problem that we have with the Palestinians is the absence of a Palestinian state. And [that] if they were given a Palestinian state, they would stop the efforts to destroy the Jewish state. But the Palestinians were offered a state many times, including in the partition resolution, and they turned it down.” “They were offered statehood by my predecessors, with lavish, lavish concessions. They turned it down.” This is “because the Palestinians are not about creating a state. They’re about destroying a state. That’s why they opposed the Jewish National Movement to create a state. It’s called Zionism. They opposed it before the inception of the Jewish state, and they’ve opposed it since. Their goal is the destruction of a state, Netanyahu asserted. “The real reason that this conflict persists is not because of the absence of a Palestinian state, but the persistent Palestinian refusal to recognize the Jewish state in any boundary,” Bibi said. ‘If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived’ He also denied allegations of starvation in Gaza and insisted that Israel allowed sufficient aid in throughout the war, and accused Hamas of disrupting aid flow. “If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” Netanyahu said, while claiming that Israel has provided two million tons of aid to Gaza since the outbreak of the war. The Israeli leader said that the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages. Then Jews were accused of spreading vermin, poisoning wells and slaughtering Christian children for their blood, leading to pogroms and violence which ultimately culminated in the Holocaust, Netanyahu said. He singled out the New York Times for running a front-page photo of a “starving” Gaza boy who suffers from cerebral palsy and said he was looking into filing an Israeli government suit against the newspaper which “buried” a correction.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the international press had bought Hamas lies and propaganda “hook line and sinker,” and was defaming the Jewish state in a similar way to how the Jewish people were maligned during the Middle Ages.

Hamas accuses Netanyahu of reeling out ‘series of lies’ in Gaza press conference

US President Donald Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (August 15), and they chose Alaska as their place of choice for their business, and it is anything but random. From 1737 until 1867, Alaska was part of the Russian Empire, separated from the rest of Russia yet sharing a border with another country. Tsar Alexander II sold the territory to the United States for $7.2 million, a move designed to keep it out of British hands and strengthen ties with Washington.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-hopes-zelensky-is-at-the-table-during-trump-putin-meet-in-alaska-1754843008498">'There will finally be a ceasefire': Germany 'hopes' Zelensky is at the table during Trump-Putin meet in Alaska</a><h2>From wartime ally to cultural legacy</h2>During the Second World War, Fairbanks played a vital role in the Lend-Lease programme, which saw US aircraft and supplies sent to the Soviet Union. Today, Alaska remains the “most Russian” of US states, home to Orthodox churches, Russian place names, and descendants of settlers known as Old Believers.<h2>Keeping intermediaries away</h2>For Trump, Alaska is not only about history. By picking the most remote US state, far from any Euro-Atlantic capital, he avoids the presence of intermediaries such as Türkiye’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan or the UAE’s Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose involvement could alter the tone of the summit. The isolation also underscores Trump’s distance from NATO allies and Democratic critics, many of whom are sceptical of any breakthrough with Moscow.<h2>Security and legal considerations</h2>Alaska’s sparse population makes it easier for security teams to guard against terrorist threats or provocations. It also sidesteps any complications linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Putin, as the US does not recognise the ICC’s jurisdiction.<h2>The Arctic factor</h2>As America’s only Arctic state, Alaska plays into the strategic interests of both Washington and Moscow. The two powers have overlapping concerns in the high north, from shipping routes like the Northern Sea Route to offshore oil and gas reserves. Projects in the Arctic could foster cooperation, though the region could just as easily become another front for military rivalry.<h2>Ukraine’s war in the background</h2>The conflict in Ukraine will overshadow the talks. Western reports have suggested potential territorial swaps, with Russia potentially offering concessions in some regions in return for Ukraine’s withdrawal from others. Alaska, with its own history of a major territorial transfer, serves as a symbolic place to discuss such possibilities.<h2>A test for direct diplomacy</h2>This summit is more than a meeting. It is a return to direct talks without mediators, a nod to shared history, and a chance to explore whether Washington and Moscow can work together where their interests align. Alaska’s story began as Russian, became American, and now could serve as the stage for a new chapter in US–Russia relations.

Presidents Trump and Putin will meet in Alaska, a symbolic choice due to its Russian imperial history and cultural legacy. Alaska once linked both nations and still reflects strong Russian influence today.

US President Donald Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (August 15), and they chose Alaska as their place of choice for their business, and it is anything but random. From 1737 until 1867, Alaska was part of the Russian Empire, separated from the rest of Russia yet sharing a border with another country. Tsar Alexander II sold the territory to the United States for $7.2 million, a move designed to keep it out of British hands and strengthen ties with Washington. Also read: 'There will finally be a ceasefire': Germany 'hopes' Zelensky is at the table during Trump-Putin meet in Alaska From wartime ally to cultural legacy During the Second World War, Fairbanks played a vital role in the Lend-Lease programme, which saw US aircraft and supplies sent to the Soviet Union. Today, Alaska remains the “most Russian” of US states, home to Orthodox churches, Russian place names, and descendants of settlers known as Old Believers. Keeping intermediaries away For Trump, Alaska is not only about history. By picking the most remote US state, far from any Euro-Atlantic capital, he avoids the presence of intermediaries such as Türkiye’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan or the UAE’s Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose involvement could alter the tone of the summit. The isolation also underscores Trump’s distance from NATO allies and Democratic critics, many of whom are sceptical of any breakthrough with Moscow. Security and legal considerations Alaska’s sparse population makes it easier for security teams to guard against terrorist threats or provocations. It also sidesteps any complications linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Putin, as the US does not recognise the ICC’s jurisdiction. The Arctic factor As America’s only Arctic state, Alaska plays into the strategic interests of both Washington and Moscow. The two powers have overlapping concerns in the high north, from shipping routes like the Northern Sea Route to offshore oil and gas reserves. Projects in the Arctic could foster cooperation, though the region could just as easily become another front for military rivalry. Ukraine’s war in the background The conflict in Ukraine will overshadow the talks. Western reports have suggested potential territorial swaps, with Russia potentially offering concessions in some regions in return for Ukraine’s withdrawal from others. Alaska, with its own history of a major territorial transfer, serves as a symbolic place to discuss such possibilities. A test for direct diplomacy This summit is more than a meeting. It is a return to direct talks without mediators, a nod to shared history, and a chance to explore whether Washington and Moscow can work together where their interests align. Alaska’s story began as Russian, became American, and now could serve as the stage for a new chapter in US–Russia relations.

Presidents Trump and Putin will meet in Alaska, a symbolic choice due to its Russian imperial history and cultural legacy. Alaska once linked both nations and still reflects strong Russian influence today.

'The history, politics and strategy': Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York

A senior Chinese diplomat, Liu Jianchao, who was being seen as a name for the next finance minister of the country, has been taken into custody by the authorities for questioning after his return from a foreign visit. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday (August 10) that Liu was taken away after returning to Beijing in late July from an overseas work trip. China's State Council Information Office, which handles media queries for the Chinese government, and the Chinese Communist Party International Liaison Department have not yet responded to the matter when Reuters approached them.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 61-year-old has a history of recording the Communist Party's body in charge of managing ties with foreign political parties. Since he took the role in 2022, he has travelled to more than 20 nations and met officials from more than 160 countries. He had a busy schedule, especially his meetings with the former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, stoked expectations that the former ambassador and ministry spokesman was being groomed to be the next foreign minister.&nbsp;His detention has marked the highest-level probe that involves a diplomat since China ousted its former foreign minister and President Xi Jinping's protégé, Qin Gang. He was born in the northeastern province of Jilin. He had a major in English at Beijing Foreign Studies University and studied international relations at Oxford before taking up his first post as a translator with the foreign ministry. He has served in China's mission to Britain and later as ambassador to Indonesia and the Philippines.&nbsp;

The 61-year-old has a history of recording the Communist Party body in charge of managing ties with foreign political parties. Since he took the role in 2022, he has travelled to more than 20 nations and met officials from more than 160 countries. 

A senior Chinese diplomat, Liu Jianchao, who was being seen as a name for the next finance minister of the country, has been taken into custody by the authorities for questioning after his return from a foreign visit. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday (August 10) that Liu was taken away after returning to Beijing in late July from an overseas work trip. China's State Council Information Office, which handles media queries for the Chinese government, and the Chinese Communist Party International Liaison Department have not yet responded to the matter when Reuters approached them. The 61-year-old has a history of recording the Communist Party's body in charge of managing ties with foreign political parties. Since he took the role in 2022, he has travelled to more than 20 nations and met officials from more than 160 countries. He had a busy schedule, especially his meetings with the former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, stoked expectations that the former ambassador and ministry spokesman was being groomed to be the next foreign minister. His detention has marked the highest-level probe that involves a diplomat since China ousted its former foreign minister and President Xi Jinping's protégé, Qin Gang. He was born in the northeastern province of Jilin. He had a major in English at Beijing Foreign Studies University and studied international relations at Oxford before taking up his first post as a translator with the foreign ministry. He has served in China's mission to Britain and later as ambassador to Indonesia and the Philippines.

The 61-year-old has a history of recording the Communist Party's body in charge of managing ties with foreign political parties. Since he took the role in 2022, he has travelled to more than 20 nations and met officials from more than 160 countries.&nbsp;

Senior Chinese diplomat, in line for foreign minister post, detained after foreign trip

In a rerun of the Kerala episode, another F-35B fighter jet of the UK Royal Air Force made an emergency landing at the Kagoshima airport in Japan on Sunday after experiencing a mechanical problem mid-air. Kagoshima Airport officials told Kyodo News that the British F-35B stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing due to a malfunction. The emergency landing took place at around 11:30 am (local time) and resulted in closure of the runway for about 20 minutes, which delayed several commercial flights.&nbsp;The malfunction in the 5th-generation stealth fighter happened when British forces were taking part in a joint drill with Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force and the US military. The drill began on 4 August and will continue till Tuesday.&nbsp;An aircraft carrier strike group was dispatched to the western Pacific by the UK as part of the exercise, Kyodo reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;Japanese broadcaster NHK said the jet was operating from the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.&nbsp;For F-35 jet, this is the second such mishap in less than two months. On 14 June, another UK F-35B from HMS Prince of Wales made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala after a hydraulic fault and remained grounded for more than five weeks.The British High Commission had publicly thanked Indian authorities for their assistance after repairs were completed. However, the grounding of F-35B in Kerala sparked a wave of humorous memes, and the jet became a tourist attraction and subject of online jokes.&nbsp;<h2>Chinese, Russian state media indulge in humour&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;This time, the Chinese and Russian state media are mocking RAF. Russia’s Sputnik India posted on its X account, “British F-35 makes emergency landing... Again. Just weeks after one F-35 was stranded in India, another was forced into an emergency landing at Japan’s Kagoshima Airport. Collecting emergency landings like souvenirs.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇬🇧🛬British F-35 makes emergency landing... AGAIN Just weeks after one F-35 was stranded in India, another was forced into an emergency landing at Japan’s Kagoshima Airport. 🤡 Collecting emergency landings like souvenirs <a href="https://t.co/e8u12zed3K">https://t.co/e8u12zed3K</a> <a href="https://t.co/1XB2LrYLSB">pic.twitter.com/1XB2LrYLSB</a>&mdash; Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sputnik_India/status/1954528812894454187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;China’s state-run Global Times humorously suggested that the malfunctions “underscored the F-35B’s overly complex systems and highly demanding maintainability”, something UK sailors “could be struggling to deal with in far seas deployments.”It reminded readers that the jet stranded in India for over five weeks became “a subject of jokes and memes,” raising questions over “how such a modern aircraft could remain stuck in a foreign country for so long.” In a pointed swipe, Global Times claimed the UK’s carrier deployments were “following the US’ global strategy” and dependent on “US-made equipment,” adding that Britain’s naval operational capabilities “are no longer what they once were” and that the recent malfunctions should prompt London to “reconsider its policy of accommodating US interests.”&nbsp;F-35Bs are highly advanced stealth jets, built by Lockheed Martin, and are prized for their short take-off and vertical landing capability.

The malfunction in the F-35 happened when British forces were taking part in a joint drill with Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force and the US military. F-35Bs are highly advanced stealth jets, built by Lockheed Martin, and are famous for their short take-off and vertical landing capability.

In a rerun of the Kerala episode, another F-35B fighter jet of the UK Royal Air Force made an emergency landing at the Kagoshima airport in Japan on Sunday after experiencing a mechanical problem mid-air. Kagoshima Airport officials told Kyodo News that the British F-35B stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing due to a malfunction. The emergency landing took place at around 11:30 am (local time) and resulted in closure of the runway for about 20 minutes, which delayed several commercial flights. The malfunction in the 5th-generation stealth fighter happened when British forces were taking part in a joint drill with Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force and the US military. The drill began on 4 August and will continue till Tuesday. An aircraft carrier strike group was dispatched to the western Pacific by the UK as part of the exercise, Kyodo reported. Japanese broadcaster NHK said the jet was operating from the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. For F-35 jet, this is the second such mishap in less than two months. On 14 June, another UK F-35B from HMS Prince of Wales made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala after a hydraulic fault and remained grounded for more than five weeks. The British High Commission had publicly thanked Indian authorities for their assistance after repairs were completed. However, the grounding of F-35B in Kerala sparked a wave of humorous memes, and the jet became a tourist attraction and subject of online jokes. Chinese, Russian state media indulge in humour This time, the Chinese and Russian state media are mocking RAF. Russia’s Sputnik India posted on its X account, “British F-35 makes emergency landing... Again. Just weeks after one F-35 was stranded in India, another was forced into an emergency landing at Japan’s Kagoshima Airport. Collecting emergency landings like souvenirs.”

The malfunction in the F-35 happened when British forces were taking part in a joint drill with Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force and the US military. F-35Bs are highly advanced stealth jets, built by Lockheed Martin, and are famous for their short take-off and vertical landing capability.

After Kerala, UK’s F-35 jet makes emergency landing in Japan; Chinese and Russian media mock RAF

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood "multiple times" previously, but they did not consider it. “Today, most of the Jewish public is against the Palestinian state for the simple reason that they know it won’t bring peace, it will bring war,” he said.&nbsp;“To have European countries and Australia march into that rabbit hole … is disappointing, and I think it’s actually shameful,” Netanyahu said. “But it’s not going to take, it’s not going to change our position. We will not commit national suicide to get a good op-ed for two minutes. We won’t do that," the Israeli PM added.<h2>‘Destruction in Gaza is a result of booby traps by Hamas’</h2>When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of "booby traps." Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area. "The physical destruction [In Gaza] is not because Israel is destroying structures with people in them. That's not what's happening. Israel, in fact, is clearing the population, as in Rafah. But the Hamas terrorists who stay in those areas have booby trapped just about every single building. Not every single building, but a lot of them. And every road and every street, and every junction, every intersection. So one of the things we do is we place old APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) with tons of explosives. And we detonate them, and they set off all the booby traps. That's why you see the destruction," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;"And we do similar things in tunnels, in terror tunnels. We put TNT in them and we detonate them, after people have left, but they are under the building, so the buildings collapse. That's why you see destruction," the Israeli PM added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood multiple times previously, but they did not consider it. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood "multiple times" previously, but they did not consider it. “Today, most of the Jewish public is against the Palestinian state for the simple reason that they know it won’t bring peace, it will bring war,” he said. “To have European countries and Australia march into that rabbit hole … is disappointing, and I think it’s actually shameful,” Netanyahu said. “But it’s not going to take, it’s not going to change our position. We will not commit national suicide to get a good op-ed for two minutes. We won’t do that," the Israeli PM added. ‘Destruction in Gaza is a result of booby traps by Hamas’ When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of "booby traps." Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area. "The physical destruction [In Gaza] is not because Israel is destroying structures with people in them. That's not what's happening. Israel, in fact, is clearing the population, as in Rafah. But the Hamas terrorists who stay in those areas have booby trapped just about every single building. Not every single building, but a lot of them. And every road and every street, and every junction, every intersection. So one of the things we do is we place old APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) with tons of explosives. And we detonate them, and they set off all the booby traps. That's why you see the destruction," Netanyahu said. "And we do similar things in tunnels, in terror tunnels. We put TNT in them and we detonate them, after people have left, but they are under the building, so the buildings collapse. That's why you see destruction," the Israeli PM added.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood "multiple times" previously, but they did not consider it.&nbsp;

'They were offered statehood multiple times, but they rejected': Netanyahu on Palestinian statehood

South Korea’s active-duty military has dropped by 20% in the last six years and now stands at about 450,000 troops. The reason behind the decline of the army is the unavailability of young men for the country’s compulsory military service, according to a defence ministry report. One of the major problems for the decline is South Korea's low birth rate (the lowest in the world), and the shortage is making it harder to recruit soldiers and threatening operational readiness..The report, shared with Democratic Party lawmaker Choo Mi-ae, shows that the active military had around 563,000 troops in 2019, which is down from roughly 690,000 in the early 2000s. The number of 20-year-old men, the usual age for enlistment in the army, has fallen sharply, dropping 30% between 2019 and 2025 to about 230,000.&nbsp;In comparison with North Korea, it is believed that North Korea have an army of about 1.2 million active-duty soldiers.&nbsp;South Korea is considered one of the fastest ageing populations in the world and has the lowest birth rate ratio (only 0.75 babies expected per woman in 2024). According to the government data, the population, which reached 51.8 million in 2020, is projected to fall to 36.2 million by 2072.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-starving-children-netanyahu-slams-gaza-famine-claims-introduces-three-step-plan-to-improve-aid-distribution-1754839172593">‘Fake starving children’: Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces three-step plan to improve aid distribution</a>The country's armed forces have cited better technology, strong ties with the United States (US), and a growing defence industry (major arms exporter) are the main reasons for shortening service periods. Back in 1953, when the Korean War ended in an armistice, able-bodied men served for 36 months.&nbsp;The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than North Korea’s entire estimated economy. However, the armed forces in South Korea are still short by 50,000 troops, according to the report by the defence ministry.&nbsp;

The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than the North Korea’s entire estimated economy. 

South Korea’s active-duty military has dropped by 20% in the last six years and now stands at about 450,000 troops. The reason behind the decline of the army is the unavailability of young men for the country’s compulsory military service, according to a defence ministry report. One of the major problems for the decline is South Korea's low birth rate (the lowest in the world), and the shortage is making it harder to recruit soldiers and threatening operational readiness.. The report, shared with Democratic Party lawmaker Choo Mi-ae, shows that the active military had around 563,000 troops in 2019, which is down from roughly 690,000 in the early 2000s. The number of 20-year-old men, the usual age for enlistment in the army, has fallen sharply, dropping 30% between 2019 and 2025 to about 230,000. In comparison with North Korea, it is believed that North Korea have an army of about 1.2 million active-duty soldiers. South Korea is considered one of the fastest ageing populations in the world and has the lowest birth rate ratio (only 0.75 babies expected per woman in 2024). According to the government data, the population, which reached 51.8 million in 2020, is projected to fall to 36.2 million by 2072. Also Read: ‘Fake starving children’: Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces three-step plan to improve aid distribution The country's armed forces have cited better technology, strong ties with the United States (US), and a growing defence industry (major arms exporter) are the main reasons for shortening service periods. Back in 1953, when the Korean War ended in an armistice, able-bodied men served for 36 months. The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than North Korea’s entire estimated economy. However, the armed forces in South Korea are still short by 50,000 troops, according to the report by the defence ministry.

The defence budget of South Korea in 2025 is over 61 trillion (£33bn), which is bigger than the North Korea’s entire estimated economy.&nbsp;

South Korea’s military shrinks by 20% in six years due to drops in male population

Germany expects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to take part in a planned summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said. The meeting is aimed at finding a resolution to the three-year war between Russia and Ukraine, but Kyiv and European leaders have insisted Ukraine must be directly involved in any negotiations. “We hope and assume that the government of Ukraine, that President Zelensky, will be involved in this meeting,” Merz told German broadcaster ARD.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-will-happen-at-trump-putin-meeting-moscow-to-push-ukraine-to-cede-territory-us-likely-to-back-kyiv-to-oppose-1754765227471">What will happen at Trump-Putin meeting? Moscow to push Ukraine to cede territory, US likely to back, Kyiv to oppose</a><h2>Talks to secure Zelensky’s presence</h2>Merz said Berlin is working closely with Washington to secure Zelensky’s attendance. “We cannot accept in any case that territorial questions are discussed or even decided between Russia and America over the heads of Europeans and Ukrainians,” he stressed. “I assume that the American government sees it the same way,” he added.The chancellor said he hopes the Alaska talks can achieve “significant progress” towards peace and even deliver a breakthrough. “We hope that there will be a breakthrough on Friday,” Merz said. “Above all, that there will finally be a ceasefire and that there can be peace negotiations in Ukraine,” he added.<h2>Previous talks failed to yield results</h2>So far, three rounds of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine this year have failed to produce results. Tens of thousands have died and millions have been displaced since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Putin, in power for over 25 years, has ruled out meeting Zelensky at this stage. He maintains that the invasion was needed to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and safeguard Russia’s security.<h2>Zelensky still pushing for three-way summit</h2>Zelensky has been calling for a direct three-way summit involving himself, Trump and Putin, arguing that only face-to-face talks with the Russian leader can open a path to peace.

Ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that he hopes that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gets a seat at the table during the meeting in Alaska.

Germany expects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to take part in a planned summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said. The meeting is aimed at finding a resolution to the three-year war between Russia and Ukraine, but Kyiv and European leaders have insisted Ukraine must be directly involved in any negotiations. “We hope and assume that the government of Ukraine, that President Zelensky, will be involved in this meeting,” Merz told German broadcaster ARD. Also read: What will happen at Trump-Putin meeting? Moscow to push Ukraine to cede territory, US likely to back, Kyiv to oppose Talks to secure Zelensky’s presence Merz said Berlin is working closely with Washington to secure Zelensky’s attendance. “We cannot accept in any case that territorial questions are discussed or even decided between Russia and America over the heads of Europeans and Ukrainians,” he stressed. “I assume that the American government sees it the same way,” he added. The chancellor said he hopes the Alaska talks can achieve “significant progress” towards peace and even deliver a breakthrough. “We hope that there will be a breakthrough on Friday,” Merz said. “Above all, that there will finally be a ceasefire and that there can be peace negotiations in Ukraine,” he added. Previous talks failed to yield results So far, three rounds of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine this year have failed to produce results. Tens of thousands have died and millions have been displaced since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Putin, in power for over 25 years, has ruled out meeting Zelensky at this stage. He maintains that the invasion was needed to protect Russian speakers in Ukraine and safeguard Russia’s security. Zelensky still pushing for three-way summit Zelensky has been calling for a direct three-way summit involving himself, Trump and Putin, arguing that only face-to-face talks with the Russian leader can open a path to peace.

Ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that he hopes that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gets a seat at the table during the meeting in Alaska.

'There will finally be a ceasefire': Germany 'hopes' Zelensky is at the table during Trump-Putin meet in Alaska

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference on Sunday (August 10) discussing his takeover plan for Gaza. When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of "booby traps." Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area.&nbsp;"The physical destruction [In Gaza] is not because Israel is destroying structures with people in them. That's not what's happening. Israel, in fact, is clearing the population, as in Rafah. But the Hamas terrorists who stay in those areas have booby trapped just about every single building. Not every single building, but a lot of them. And every road and every street, and every junction, every intersection. So one of the things we do is we place old APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) with tons of explosives. And we detonate them, and they set off all the booby traps. That's why you see the destruction," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;"And we do similar things in tunnels, in terror tunnels. We put TNT in them and we detonate them, after people have left, but they are under the building, so the buildings collapse. That's why you see destruction," the Israeli PM added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-says-gaza-faces-severe-aid-shortages-starvation-deaths-rise-to-217-1754837092099/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-says-gaza-faces-severe-aid-shortages-starvation-deaths-rise-to-217-1754837092099/embed</a><h2>Starving Gaza children are ‘all fake'</h2>Netanyahu claimed in the conference that all the visuals of starving kids in the Gaza Strip shared by the international media are actually a "false propaganda," a “global campaign of lies,” as he denoted them. While 2 million people in Gaza are now getting access to humanitarian aid, “the only ones who are being deliberately starved in Gaza are our hostages,” the Israeli leader added. Meanwhile, he showed a picture of the Israeli hostage, Evyatar David, and said, &nbsp;“Look at his hand, at his arm. He is being deliberately starved by these Hamas monsters."&nbsp;"Every massacre of the Jewish people was preceded by massive vilification,” he said. “We were said to be spreading vermin to Christian society. We were said to be poisoning the wells. We were told to slaughter Christian children for their blood. And as these lies spread around the globe, they were followed by horrific massacres, pogroms, displacements, finally culminating in the worst massacre of them all: The Holocaust," he added.

When he was asked about the destruction his occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of booby traps set by Hamas. Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a press conference on Sunday (August 10) discussing his takeover plan for Gaza. When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of "booby traps." Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area. "The physical destruction [In Gaza] is not because Israel is destroying structures with people in them. That's not what's happening. Israel, in fact, is clearing the population, as in Rafah. But the Hamas terrorists who stay in those areas have booby trapped just about every single building. Not every single building, but a lot of them. And every road and every street, and every junction, every intersection. So one of the things we do is we place old APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) with tons of explosives. And we detonate them, and they set off all the booby traps. That's why you see the destruction," Netanyahu said. "And we do similar things in tunnels, in terror tunnels. We put TNT in them and we detonate them, after people have left, but they are under the building, so the buildings collapse. That's why you see destruction," the Israeli PM added. https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-says-gaza-faces-severe-aid-shortages-starvation-deaths-rise-to-217-1754837092099/embed Starving Gaza children are ‘all fake' Netanyahu claimed in the conference that all the visuals of starving kids in the Gaza Strip shared by the international media are actually a "false propaganda," a “global campaign of lies,” as he denoted them. While 2 million people in Gaza are now getting access to humanitarian aid, “the only ones who are being deliberately starved in Gaza are our hostages,” the Israeli leader added. Meanwhile, he showed a picture of the Israeli hostage, Evyatar David, and said, “Look at his hand, at his arm. He is being deliberately starved by these Hamas monsters." "Every massacre of the Jewish people was preceded by massive vilification,” he said. “We were said to be spreading vermin to Christian society. We were said to be poisoning the wells. We were told to slaughter Christian children for their blood. And as these lies spread around the globe, they were followed by horrific massacres, pogroms, displacements, finally culminating in the worst massacre of them all: The Holocaust," he added.

When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of “booby traps” set by Hamas. Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area.

'Destruction in Gaza is a result of booby traps by Hamas': Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied accusations that his government is starving Gaza’s civilian population, saying that only hostages held by Hamas are being deliberately deprived of food. Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu claimed the media had relied on Hamas-provided figures and “distorted” the reality on the ground. He criticised images of “fake starving children”, including one used on the front page of the New York Times. He also drew a historical comparison, saying, “Every massacre of the Jewish people was preceded by massive vilification.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-best-way-to-end-war-netanyahu-says-he-doesn-t-want-to-occupy-gaza-as-israel-prepares-short-timeline-offensive-1754837171195">'Best way to end war': Netanyahu says he doesn't want to 'occupy Gaza' as Israel prepares short-timeline offensive</a><h2>Plans to expand humanitarian aid routes</h2>Netanyahu said he was in discussions with the United States about “additional measures” to boost humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza. The territory is experiencing severe food shortages due to Israel’s blockade and ongoing restrictions.“In the meantime, what we are doing, as I said, is designate safe quarters, expand the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) distribution points and they are trying to bring in more resources, hope to recruit some international organisations, maybe, god willing, the UN if they ever decide to actually do something for the Palestinian people that does not go through Hamas,” he said. He added that Israel is looking to increase airdrops of supplies, though he stressed that ground routes remain more effective for delivering aid.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-demilitarisation-security-zone-hamas-surrender-netanyahu-reveals-five-point-plan-for-gaza-after-the-war-1754835330233">'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war</a><h2>Hamas accused of stealing supplies</h2>Netanyahu again blamed Hamas for the crisis, accusing the group of stealing aid intended for civilians. He showed an image of what he said were tonnes of uncollected supplies in Gaza, brought in through the Kerem Shalom crossing.He outlined a three-step plan to improve aid distribution:1. Creating safe corridors for humanitarian delivery.2. Increasing GHF-run distribution points.3. Expanding airdrops by Israeli forces and partner countries.<h2>Safe zones for civilians</h2>Netanyahu reiterated that civilians would be allowed to leave combat areas and move to designated safe zones where they would receive food, water and medical care. “If Israel was implementing a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said, adding that “hundreds of trucks” have entered Gaza and millions of messages have been sent to warn residents to avoid danger.

Prime Minister Netanyahu denied claims of starving Gaza’s civilians, blaming media distortion and Hamas. He announced plans to expand aid routes, including safe quarters, increased distribution points, and potential international cooperation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied accusations that his government is starving Gaza’s civilian population, saying that only hostages held by Hamas are being deliberately deprived of food. Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu claimed the media had relied on Hamas-provided figures and “distorted” the reality on the ground. He criticised images of “fake starving children”, including one used on the front page of the New York Times. He also drew a historical comparison, saying, “Every massacre of the Jewish people was preceded by massive vilification.” Also read: 'Best way to end war': Netanyahu says he doesn't want to 'occupy Gaza' as Israel prepares short-timeline offensive Plans to expand humanitarian aid routes Netanyahu said he was in discussions with the United States about “additional measures” to boost humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza. The territory is experiencing severe food shortages due to Israel’s blockade and ongoing restrictions. “In the meantime, what we are doing, as I said, is designate safe quarters, expand the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) distribution points and they are trying to bring in more resources, hope to recruit some international organisations, maybe, god willing, the UN if they ever decide to actually do something for the Palestinian people that does not go through Hamas,” he said. He added that Israel is looking to increase airdrops of supplies, though he stressed that ground routes remain more effective for delivering aid. Also read: 'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war Hamas accused of stealing supplies Netanyahu again blamed Hamas for the crisis, accusing the group of stealing aid intended for civilians. He showed an image of what he said were tonnes of uncollected supplies in Gaza, brought in through the Kerem Shalom crossing. He outlined a three-step plan to improve aid distribution: 1. Creating safe corridors for humanitarian delivery. 2. Increasing GHF-run distribution points. 3. Expanding airdrops by Israeli forces and partner countries. Safe zones for civilians Netanyahu reiterated that civilians would be allowed to leave combat areas and move to designated safe zones where they would receive food, water and medical care. “If Israel was implementing a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said, adding that “hundreds of trucks” have entered Gaza and millions of messages have been sent to warn residents to avoid danger.

Prime Minister Netanyahu denied claims of starving Gaza’s civilians, blaming media distortion and Hamas. He announced plans to expand aid routes, including safe quarters, increased distribution points, and potential international cooperation.

‘Fake starving children’: Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces three-step plan to improve aid distribution

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his government has no intention of occupying Gaza but plans to set up a civilian administration unconnected to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. Speaking at a press conference on Sunday (Aug 10), he said, “Our goal is not to occupy Gaza, but to establish a civilian administration in the Strip that is not affiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.” He added that Israel will create safe corridors for the delivery of aid to civilians in the territory. “We will designate safe corridors for the passage and distribution of aid in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-demilitarisation-security-zone-hamas-surrender-netanyahu-reveals-five-point-plan-for-gaza-after-the-war-1754835330233">'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war</a><h2>Military operation to be completed ‘in a fairly short timetable’</h2>Netanyahu confirmed that the military is preparing a new operation to seize Gaza City, aiming to conclude it quickly. “Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily,” he said.&nbsp;Watch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Briefs Media on Gaza Planhttps://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-briefs-media-on-gaza-plan-1754837059658/embed“We will do so by first enabling the civilian population to safely leave combat areas to designated safe zones and in these safe zones they will be given ample food, water and medical care, as we have done before,” he added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/far-right-demands-full-takeover-families-push-for-hostage-deal-with-netanyahu-s-gaza-announcement-hours-away-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-1754823098035">Far-right demands full takeover, families push for hostage deal: With Netanyahu's Gaza announcement hours away, here's all you need to know</a>The prime minister rejected accusations of blocking humanitarian supplies. He said Israel had allowed close to two million tonnes of aid into Gaza since the war began. “If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war. But our policy has been the exact opposite,” he said.

Prime Minister Netanyahu stated Israel won't occupy Gaza but aims to establish a civilian administration separate from Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, while ensuring safe corridors for humanitarian aid delivery.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his government has no intention of occupying Gaza but plans to set up a civilian administration unconnected to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. Speaking at a press conference on Sunday (Aug 10), he said, “Our goal is not to occupy Gaza, but to establish a civilian administration in the Strip that is not affiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.” He added that Israel will create safe corridors for the delivery of aid to civilians in the territory. “We will designate safe corridors for the passage and distribution of aid in the Gaza Strip,” Netanyahu said. Also read: 'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war Military operation to be completed ‘in a fairly short timetable’ Netanyahu confirmed that the military is preparing a new operation to seize Gaza City, aiming to conclude it quickly. “Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily,” he said. Watch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Briefs Media on Gaza Plan https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-briefs-media-on-gaza-plan-1754837059658/embed “We will do so by first enabling the civilian population to safely leave combat areas to designated safe zones and in these safe zones they will be given ample food, water and medical care, as we have done before,” he added. Also read: Far-right demands full takeover, families push for hostage deal: With Netanyahu's Gaza announcement hours away, here's all you need to know The prime minister rejected accusations of blocking humanitarian supplies. He said Israel had allowed close to two million tonnes of aid into Gaza since the war began. “If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war. But our policy has been the exact opposite,” he said.

Prime Minister Netanyahu stated Israel won't occupy Gaza but aims to establish a civilian administration separate from Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, while ensuring safe corridors for humanitarian aid delivery.

'Best way to end war': Netanyahu says he doesn't want to 'occupy Gaza' as Israel prepares short-timeline offensive

Tuvalu, a remote island nation in the Pacific Ocean, is set to become the first country in history to be evacuated entirely because of rising sea levels. With an average elevation of just 6.5 feet above sea level, the nation’s 11,000 residents face an unavoidable future: much of their land and infrastructure is predicted to be underwater by 2050. The government has already signed a landmark agreement with Australia to ensure a planned migration for its people before the ocean claims the islands.&nbsp;<h2>The climate migration plan</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Under the Falepili Union Treaty, agreed in 2023, Australia will accept 280 Tuvaluan citizens each year as permanent residents through a ballot-based “climate visa” scheme. The programme opens in 2025, granting recipients the same rights to health care, education, housing and employment as Australian citizens. Demand has been immediate and overwhelming — more than 5,000 applications were submitted in the first month, representing almost half the population. Within just four days of opening, one-third of the nation had registered for the chance to relocate.The migration scheme is designed to be gradual, but if current interest continues, close to 40 per cent of Tuvalu’s population could move to Australia within a decade. Residents will also have the option to return home if conditions allow, though scientists warn that worsening floods and storms will make permanent return unlikely.&nbsp;Tuvalu, climate change, rising sea levels, Pacific islands, global warming, climate migration, Australia climate visa, Falepili Union Treaty, climate refugees, island evacuation, sea level rise, Tuvalu relocation, coastal flooding, climate crisis, environmental migration, disappearing nations, ocean levels, Pacific relocation, climate impact, sinking islands &nbsp;

Tuvalu is made up of nine small coral atolls and islands, home to just over 11,000 people.

&nbsp;<h2>The urgency behind the exodus</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Tuvalu’s vulnerability stems from a combination of rising sea levels, more intense storms and the loss of freshwater sources to salinisation. According to recent studies, sea levels in the region were already 15 centimetres higher in 2023 than they were 30 years earlier. By mid-century, high tides could submerge much of the country’s habitable land, eroding its cultural and economic foundations.&nbsp;The government has attempted to preserve its heritage through innovative measures such as 3D-scanning the islands, creating a digital record of the nation in case its physical territory is lost. However, this technological safeguard cannot prevent the displacement of its people.&nbsp;<h2>A global warning</h2>&nbsp;Tuvalu is not alone in facing such existential threats. Low-lying nations like the Maldives, Kiribati, the Solomon Islands, Fiji and Vanuatu are similarly at risk. Even wealthier nations, including the United States, face the prospect of relocating communities as rising seas threaten coastal states like Florida and Louisiana. Scientists warn that by 2070, over three billion people worldwide could find themselves living outside the climate conditions that have sustained human civilisation for millennia. Tuvalu’s exodus is a stark demonstration that climate change is no longer a distant forecast but a present reality.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under the Falepili Union Treaty, agreed in 2023, Australia will accept 280 Tuvaluan citizens each year as permanent residents through a ballot-based ‘climate visa’ scheme. 

Tuvalu, a remote island nation in the Pacific Ocean, is set to become the first country in history to be evacuated entirely because of rising sea levels. With an average elevation of just 6.5 feet above sea level, the nation’s 11,000 residents face an unavoidable future: much of their land and infrastructure is predicted to be underwater by 2050. The government has already signed a landmark agreement with Australia to ensure a planned migration for its people before the ocean claims the islands. The climate migration plan Under the Falepili Union Treaty, agreed in 2023, Australia will accept 280 Tuvaluan citizens each year as permanent residents through a ballot-based “climate visa” scheme. The programme opens in 2025, granting recipients the same rights to health care, education, housing and employment as Australian citizens. Demand has been immediate and overwhelming — more than 5,000 applications were submitted in the first month, representing almost half the population. Within just four days of opening, one-third of the nation had registered for the chance to relocate. The migration scheme is designed to be gradual, but if current interest continues, close to 40 per cent of Tuvalu’s population could move to Australia within a decade. Residents will also have the option to return home if conditions allow, though scientists warn that worsening floods and storms will make permanent return unlikely. Tuvalu, climate change, rising sea levels, Pacific islands, global warming, climate migration, Australia climate visa, Falepili Union Treaty, climate refugees, island evacuation, sea level rise, Tuvalu relocation, coastal flooding, climate crisis, environmental migration, disappearing nations, ocean levels, Pacific relocation, climate impact, sinking islands

Under the Falepili Union Treaty, agreed in 2023, Australia will accept 280 Tuvaluan citizens each year as permanent residents through a ballot-based ‘climate visa’ scheme.&nbsp;

This entire country is being evacuated due to global warming! Have you visited it before?

The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting on Sunday (August 10) to discuss the developing situation in Gaza ahead of Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to take over the strip. Speaking at the meeting, Head of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Geneva, Ramesh Rajasingham, said that over 61,000 people have been killed in the region by the Israeli occupation, including 18,000 children. He said around 50 Israeli hostages are in captivity by the Palestinian terror group Hamas. More than 500 humanitarian workers have been killed, and the condition of humanitarian aid is "horrific" in the strip. He said that Israel's plan to take full control of the region will risk "another calamity."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-demilitarisation-security-zone-hamas-surrender-netanyahu-reveals-five-point-plan-for-gaza-after-the-war-1754835330233">'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war</a>&nbsp;"If these plans are implemented, they will likely trigger another calamity in Gaza, reverberating across the region and causing further forced displacements, killings and destruction, compounding the unbearable suffering of the population," Miroslav Jenca, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, the UK representative in the meeting said that the plan will deepen the Palestinian people's suffering. "This Israel plan will bring nothing to rescue the hostages; rather, it will create more risk for the hostages," the representative said.&nbsp;The Danish representative "fully rejected" the plan of Netanyahu by calling it completely against international law. She said that the entire region is facing a famine-like situation. She also demanded an investigation into the situation. The representative asked for the return of UN-led humanitarian aid into the strip.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Denmark firmly condemns the heinous terrorist attack of October 7 by Hamas. There can be no justification for that. However, Israel's response must be exercised in compliance with international law," the representative said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Ramesh Rajasingham, said that over 61,000 people have been killed in the region by the Israeli occupation, including 18,000 children. He said around 50 Israeli hostages are in captivity by the Palestinian terror group Hamas. 

The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting on Sunday (August 10) to discuss the developing situation in Gaza ahead of Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to take over the strip. Speaking at the meeting, Head of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Geneva, Ramesh Rajasingham, said that over 61,000 people have been killed in the region by the Israeli occupation, including 18,000 children. He said around 50 Israeli hostages are in captivity by the Palestinian terror group Hamas. More than 500 humanitarian workers have been killed, and the condition of humanitarian aid is "horrific" in the strip. He said that Israel's plan to take full control of the region will risk "another calamity." Also read: 'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war "If these plans are implemented, they will likely trigger another calamity in Gaza, reverberating across the region and causing further forced displacements, killings and destruction, compounding the unbearable suffering of the population," Miroslav Jenca, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, said. Moreover, the UK representative in the meeting said that the plan will deepen the Palestinian people's suffering. "This Israel plan will bring nothing to rescue the hostages; rather, it will create more risk for the hostages," the representative said. The Danish representative "fully rejected" the plan of Netanyahu by calling it completely against international law. She said that the entire region is facing a famine-like situation. She also demanded an investigation into the situation. The representative asked for the return of UN-led humanitarian aid into the strip. "Denmark firmly condemns the heinous terrorist attack of October 7 by Hamas. There can be no justification for that. However, Israel's response must be exercised in compliance with international law," the representative said.

&nbsp;Ramesh Rajasingham, said that over 61,000 people have been killed in the region by the Israeli occupation, including 18,000 children. He said around 50 Israeli hostages are in captivity by the Palestinian terror group Hamas.&nbsp;

'18,000 children killed in Gaza so far': Senior UN official says Netanyahu's takeover plan risks 'another calamity'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has set out his vision for Gaza’s future as the country’s military presses deeper into the territory. Speaking ahead of an emergency UN Security Council meeting, Netanyahu vowed to “puncture the lies” and tell “the truth” about the ongoing conflict. He insisted that Hamas still has “thousands of armed terrorists” in Gaza whose sole aim is to “destroy” Israel. Gazans, he claimed, are “begging us and begging the world” to be freed from the militant group.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/far-right-demands-full-takeover-families-push-for-hostage-deal-with-netanyahu-s-gaza-announcement-hours-away-here-s-all-you-need-to-know-1754823098035">Far-right demands full takeover, families push for hostage deal: With Netanyahu's Gaza announcement hours away, here's all you need to know</a>Describing Hamas as a “genocidal organisation”, Netanyahu stressed, “No nation would put up with having an entity committed to its annihilation a stone’s throw away from its border.”<h2>Five-point plan for Gaza after the war</h2>Netanyahu said Israel’s objective is not to occupy Gaza but to “free it from Hamas terrorists” and set the stage for a demilitarised future. He outlined a five-point plan for the “day after Hamas”:1. Gaza will be fully demilitarised.2. Israel will hold overriding security responsibility.3. A security zone will be created on the border to prevent future attacks.4. A civilian administration will govern Gaza and seek peaceful relations with Israel.5. Hostages must be released, and Hamas must surrender.“The war can end if Gaza lays down its arms and releases all the remaining hostages,” Netanyahu said.<h2>Targeting Hamas strongholds</h2>The Israeli leader revealed that 70-75% of Gaza is now under Israeli military control, but two Hamas strongholds remain, Gaza City and the “central camps”. The security cabinet has instructed the Israel Defense Forces to dismantle both. “This is the best way to end the war,” Netanyahu said, adding that civilians would be allowed to move to designated safe zones with “ample” food, water, medical care and security.<h2>Rejecting claims of a starvation policy</h2>Netanyahu dismissed accusations that Israel is starving the population. “If Israel was implementing a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said. He added that “hundreds of trucks” carrying supplies had entered Gaza, alongside millions of phone calls and messages warning civilians to move to safety.Despite his firm stance, Netanyahu faces growing criticism from his far-right coalition partners. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called the latest cabinet decision “half-hearted”, accusing the government of avoiding a “decisive victory”. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir went further, telling Kan radio: “I want all of Gaza, transfer and colonisation.” Outside politics, pressure mounted from the families of hostages still held in Gaza. In Tel Aviv, demonstrators displayed photographs of loved ones, warning Netanyahu of the risks in his current approach.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined his vision for Gaza, vowing to expose Hamas, which he called genocidal, and emphasising Israel’s right to defend itself from ongoing militant threats near its border.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has set out his vision for Gaza’s future as the country’s military presses deeper into the territory. Speaking ahead of an emergency UN Security Council meeting, Netanyahu vowed to “puncture the lies” and tell “the truth” about the ongoing conflict. He insisted that Hamas still has “thousands of armed terrorists” in Gaza whose sole aim is to “destroy” Israel. Gazans, he claimed, are “begging us and begging the world” to be freed from the militant group. Also read: Far-right demands full takeover, families push for hostage deal: With Netanyahu's Gaza announcement hours away, here's all you need to know Describing Hamas as a “genocidal organisation”, Netanyahu stressed, “No nation would put up with having an entity committed to its annihilation a stone’s throw away from its border.” Five-point plan for Gaza after the war Netanyahu said Israel’s objective is not to occupy Gaza but to “free it from Hamas terrorists” and set the stage for a demilitarised future. He outlined a five-point plan for the “day after Hamas”: 1. Gaza will be fully demilitarised. 2. Israel will hold overriding security responsibility. 3. A security zone will be created on the border to prevent future attacks. 4. A civilian administration will govern Gaza and seek peaceful relations with Israel. 5. Hostages must be released, and Hamas must surrender. “The war can end if Gaza lays down its arms and releases all the remaining hostages,” Netanyahu said. Targeting Hamas strongholds The Israeli leader revealed that 70-75% of Gaza is now under Israeli military control, but two Hamas strongholds remain, Gaza City and the “central camps”. The security cabinet has instructed the Israel Defense Forces to dismantle both. “This is the best way to end the war,” Netanyahu said, adding that civilians would be allowed to move to designated safe zones with “ample” food, water, medical care and security. Rejecting claims of a starvation policy Netanyahu dismissed accusations that Israel is starving the population. “If Israel was implementing a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said. He added that “hundreds of trucks” carrying supplies had entered Gaza, alongside millions of phone calls and messages warning civilians to move to safety. Despite his firm stance, Netanyahu faces growing criticism from his far-right coalition partners. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called the latest cabinet decision “half-hearted”, accusing the government of avoiding a “decisive victory”. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir went further, telling Kan radio: “I want all of Gaza, transfer and colonisation.” Outside politics, pressure mounted from the families of hostages still held in Gaza. In Tel Aviv, demonstrators displayed photographs of loved ones, warning Netanyahu of the risks in his current approach.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined his vision for Gaza, vowing to expose Hamas, which he called genocidal, and emphasising Israel’s right to defend itself from ongoing militant threats near its border.

'Demilitarisation, security zone, Hamas' surrender': Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war

America is ending the “Dropbox” program for the majority of visa categories, including H1-B, on September 2, 2025. &nbsp;After this, people who need to renew their H1-B, L1, F1, or O1 visas will be heavily impacted, as this would require children under the age of 14 and seniors over 79 to attend interviews with a consular officer at a US consulate abroad. The only people who are likely to be exempted from this move are people with tourist visa renewals and diplomatic visas.<h2>All about the recent modification</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/trump-asked-emma-thompson-out-oscar-winning-actress-calls-him-a-stalker-reveals-us-president-s-1998-call-for-dinner-1754804331773">Trump asked Emma Thompson out? Oscar-winning actress calls him a 'stalker', reveals US president's 1998 call for dinner</a>&nbsp;The Dropbox Interview Waiver Program is over &nbsp;For the majority of non-immigrant visa renewals like &nbsp;H-1B (and H-4) visas, interview waivers will no longer be available.&nbsp;Interviews in personNow, everyone will be required to appear for an interview for their visa approval. People who were previously exempt from it (children under 14, elders over 79) will now be included in this rule.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-tammy-bruce-trump-s-pick-for-next-us-deputy-representative-to-un-1754819516652">Who is Tammy Bruce? Trump’s pick for the next US deputy representative to UN</a>&nbsp;Limited exceptionsThose having official or diplomatic visas (such as A, G, NATO, TECRO, etc.) may still be eligible for interview waivers.&nbsp;Applicants are being asked to show up for in-person interviews sooner than anticipated, and several Dropbox spots for August and September have already been suspended. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a police update saying that a visa will now be deemed “available” for the purposes of the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) age calculation. Children of highly qualified immigrants from the nations with the largest backlogs, like India and China, are likely to suffer the most under this move.&nbsp;

After this, people who need to renew their H1-B, L1, F1, or O1 visas will be heavily impacted, as this would require children under the age of 14 and seniors over 79 to attend interviews with a consular officer at a US consulate abroad. 

America is ending the “Dropbox” program for the majority of visa categories, including H1-B, on September 2, 2025. After this, people who need to renew their H1-B, L1, F1, or O1 visas will be heavily impacted, as this would require children under the age of 14 and seniors over 79 to attend interviews with a consular officer at a US consulate abroad. The only people who are likely to be exempted from this move are people with tourist visa renewals and diplomatic visas. All about the recent modification Also read: Trump asked Emma Thompson out? Oscar-winning actress calls him a 'stalker', reveals US president's 1998 call for dinner The Dropbox Interview Waiver Program is over For the majority of non-immigrant visa renewals like H-1B (and H-4) visas, interview waivers will no longer be available. Interviews in person Now, everyone will be required to appear for an interview for their visa approval. People who were previously exempt from it (children under 14, elders over 79) will now be included in this rule. Also read: Who is Tammy Bruce? Trump’s pick for the next US deputy representative to UN Limited exceptions Those having official or diplomatic visas (such as A, G, NATO, TECRO, etc.) may still be eligible for interview waivers. Applicants are being asked to show up for in-person interviews sooner than anticipated, and several Dropbox spots for August and September have already been suspended. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a police update saying that a visa will now be deemed “available” for the purposes of the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) age calculation. Children of highly qualified immigrants from the nations with the largest backlogs, like India and China, are likely to suffer the most under this move.

After this, people who need to renew their H1-B, L1, F1, or O1 visas will be heavily impacted, as this would require children under the age of 14 and seniors over 79 to attend interviews with a consular officer at a US consulate abroad.&nbsp;

EXPLAINED: US nulls interview waiver program for H1-B and other visas. Here's what India and China will face from September 2

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed on Sunday that India is progressing towards becoming one of the world’s top three economies days after US President Donald Trump had claimed that India was a ‘dead economy’. In his address at an event in Bengaluru, PM Modi said the spirit of reform, performance, and transformation backed by clear intentions and honest efforts has helped India gain momentum.“We are rapidly moving towards becoming the top three economies. This speed came to us from the spirit of reform, perform, and transform. This speed came to us from clear intention and honest efforts. In 2014, Metro was limited to only five cities. And now there is a network of more than 1000 km in 24 cities,” the Prime Minister said.&nbsp;“Before 2014, about 20,000 km of rail route was electrified. We have electrified more than 40,000 km of rail route in the last 11 years itself... Till 2014, there were only 74 airports in India. Now, their number has increased to more than 160. The figures for waterways are also equally impressive. In 2014, only 3 national waterways were operational. Now, this number has increased to 30,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent</h2>&nbsp;The PM’s remarks come amid India’s escalating trade tensions with the US. Trump had last week doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, targeting the country for continuing to import crude oil from Russia despite US sanctions.Earlier, Trump had described India as a “dead economy” in frustration over New Delhi’s refusal to halt oil purchases from Moscow. “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together,” Trump had said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Unfair, unjustified and unreasonable’</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, India condemned the imposition of an additional 25 per cent tariff as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable” by the US.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests. “We reiterate that these actions are unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” it said.

India condemned the imposition of an additional 25 per cent tariff as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable” by Donald Trump and the Ministry of External Affairs said that India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed on Sunday that India is progressing towards becoming one of the world’s top three economies days after US President Donald Trump had claimed that India was a ‘dead economy’. In his address at an event in Bengaluru, PM Modi said the spirit of reform, performance, and transformation backed by clear intentions and honest efforts has helped India gain momentum. “We are rapidly moving towards becoming the top three economies. This speed came to us from the spirit of reform, perform, and transform. This speed came to us from clear intention and honest efforts. In 2014, Metro was limited to only five cities. And now there is a network of more than 1000 km in 24 cities,” the Prime Minister said. “Before 2014, about 20,000 km of rail route was electrified. We have electrified more than 40,000 km of rail route in the last 11 years itself... Till 2014, there were only 74 airports in India. Now, their number has increased to more than 160. The figures for waterways are also equally impressive. In 2014, only 3 national waterways were operational. Now, this number has increased to 30,” he added. Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent The PM’s remarks come amid India’s escalating trade tensions with the US. Trump had last week doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, targeting the country for continuing to import crude oil from Russia despite US sanctions. Earlier, Trump had described India as a “dead economy” in frustration over New Delhi’s refusal to halt oil purchases from Moscow. “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together,” Trump had said. ‘Unfair, unjustified and unreasonable’ Meanwhile, India condemned the imposition of an additional 25 per cent tariff as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable” by the US. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests. “We reiterate that these actions are unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” it said.

India condemned the imposition of an additional 25 per cent tariff as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable” by Donald Trump and the Ministry of External Affairs said that India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests.

‘India racing to slot in top three economies,’ says PM Modi after Trump’s ‘dead economy’ comment

Israel is bracing for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s first international press conference since his security cabinet decided to expand the war in Gaza and capture Gaza City. The announcement, set for Sunday afternoon, comes as divisions within the country grow sharper. While some Israelis demand an end to the war and a deal to free the remaining hostages, others insist Hamas must be crushed entirely. Protests in Tel Aviv on Saturday saw thousands demanding the government prioritise hostage negotiations over further military action.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-graveyard-for-trump-s-mercenaries-iran-vows-to-block-us-brokered-azerbaijan-armenia-corridor-near-its-border-1754760969131">'Graveyard for Trump’s mercenaries': Iran vows to block US-brokered Azerbaijan-Armenia corridor near its border</a><h2>Far right pushes for total victory over Hamas</h2>Pressure on Netanyahu has intensified from his far-right coalition partners. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticised the latest cabinet decision, calling it “half-hearted.” “The prime minister and the cabinet gave in to weakness. Emotion overcame reason, and they once again chose to do more of the same, launching a military operation whose goal is not a decisive victory,” he said.National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir went further, telling Kan radio, “I want all of Gaza, transfer and colonisation. This plan will not endanger the troops.” Their influence remains crucial to Netanyahu’s grip on power, as his coalition depends on maintaining at least 61 seats in parliament.Demonstrators in Tel Aviv held up photographs of those still held in Gaza, with relatives warning Netanyahu of the consequences of his plan.“If you invade parts of Gaza and the hostages are murdered, we will pursue you in the town squares, in election campaigns and at every time and place,” said Shahar Mor Zahiro, a relative of a slain hostage. Of the 251 people taken hostage during Hamas’s October 2023 attack, 49 remain in Gaza, including 27, the military says, are dead.<h2>International criticism mounts ahead of UN meeting</h2>The cabinet’s decision has drawn widespread condemnation from abroad, including from allies urging Israel to pursue a negotiated truce to free the hostages and ease Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The UN Security Council is due to meet on Sunday to discuss the latest escalation. Humanitarian groups warn of famine taking hold in Gaza, where the health ministry says at least 61,430 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. Gaza’s civil defence agency reported at least 27 more deaths from Israeli fire on Sunday, including 11 near aid distribution centres.<h2>Netanyahu unmoved by backlash</h2>Despite criticism from both international partners and reported dissent within the Israeli military, Netanyahu has stood by the decision. “We are not going to occupy Gaza, we are going to free Gaza from Hamas,” he wrote on social media late Friday. The war began after Hamas’s 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,219 people, according to official figures. The conflict has since devastated Gaza, with the situation now reaching a critical juncture ahead of Netanyahu’s announcement.

Israel awaits Netanyahu’s first global press conference since expanding the Gaza war. As internal divisions deepen, protests grow, with some demanding a hostage deal and others calling for Hamas’s defeat.

Israel is bracing for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s first international press conference since his security cabinet decided to expand the war in Gaza and capture Gaza City. The announcement, set for Sunday afternoon, comes as divisions within the country grow sharper. While some Israelis demand an end to the war and a deal to free the remaining hostages, others insist Hamas must be crushed entirely. Protests in Tel Aviv on Saturday saw thousands demanding the government prioritise hostage negotiations over further military action. Also read: 'Graveyard for Trump’s mercenaries': Iran vows to block US-brokered Azerbaijan-Armenia corridor near its border Far right pushes for total victory over Hamas Pressure on Netanyahu has intensified from his far-right coalition partners. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticised the latest cabinet decision, calling it “half-hearted.” “The prime minister and the cabinet gave in to weakness. Emotion overcame reason, and they once again chose to do more of the same, launching a military operation whose goal is not a decisive victory,” he said. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir went further, telling Kan radio, “I want all of Gaza, transfer and colonisation. This plan will not endanger the troops.” Their influence remains crucial to Netanyahu’s grip on power, as his coalition depends on maintaining at least 61 seats in parliament. Demonstrators in Tel Aviv held up photographs of those still held in Gaza, with relatives warning Netanyahu of the consequences of his plan. “If you invade parts of Gaza and the hostages are murdered, we will pursue you in the town squares, in election campaigns and at every time and place,” said Shahar Mor Zahiro, a relative of a slain hostage. Of the 251 people taken hostage during Hamas’s October 2023 attack, 49 remain in Gaza, including 27, the military says, are dead. International criticism mounts ahead of UN meeting The cabinet’s decision has drawn widespread condemnation from abroad, including from allies urging Israel to pursue a negotiated truce to free the hostages and ease Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The UN Security Council is due to meet on Sunday to discuss the latest escalation. Humanitarian groups warn of famine taking hold in Gaza, where the health ministry says at least 61,430 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. Gaza’s civil defence agency reported at least 27 more deaths from Israeli fire on Sunday, including 11 near aid distribution centres. Netanyahu unmoved by backlash Despite criticism from both international partners and reported dissent within the Israeli military, Netanyahu has stood by the decision. “We are not going to occupy Gaza, we are going to free Gaza from Hamas,” he wrote on social media late Friday. The war began after Hamas’s 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,219 people, according to official figures. The conflict has since devastated Gaza, with the situation now reaching a critical juncture ahead of Netanyahu’s announcement.

Israel awaits Netanyahu’s first global press conference since expanding the Gaza war. As internal divisions deepen, protests grow, with some demanding a hostage deal and others calling for Hamas’s defeat.

Far-right demands full takeover, families push for hostage deal: With Netanyahu's Gaza announcement hours away, here's all you need to know

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took an indirect jibe at US President Donald Trump for his tariff imposition on the country. Singh accused that "some boss" is jealous of India's economic growth. Speaking from Madhya Pradesh, the Indian minister said, “Some 'boss' is jealous, unable to accept India's growth; trying to disrupt the country’s economy.”&nbsp;“There are some people who are not happy with the speed at which India is developing. They are not liking it. ‘I am everyone's boss, how is India growing at such a fast pace',” Singh told a gathering.&nbsp;The comment came amid the tension between India and the United States over the 50 per cent tariff Trump levied on the fourth-largest economy in the world. It was apparently over India's continuous purchase of oil from Russia. Trump wants India to stop it within 20 days, or the country will have to pay the price in the form of tariffs. The American president termed India a "dead economy."&nbsp;that when prices rise, the world will stop buying them.” But he insisted, “India is advancing so rapidly that I say with full confidence: no power in the world can now stop India from becoming a major global power.”<h2>Trump LOVES two things most</h2>Amid the chaos around Donald Trump's tariff imposed on India, former Indian diplomat Rakesh Sood said that the American president loves two things the most: tariffs and the Nobel Peace Prize. He hinted that Trump's moibe must be a prize India has to pay for not endorsing him for the peace prize, as done by Benjamin Netanyahu. Talking to the news agency ANI, Sood said, “There are two things that President Trump loves - One is tariffs, and the second is the Nobel Peace Prize, so he will do anything to get to the bottom of these two.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The former diplomat said that Trump many a time claimed credit for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan during the Operation Sindoor, but India did not give any importance to his claims. "We've not given him comfort on the Nobel, so I guess we are facing the tariffs. We'll see how we deal with it," Sood said.&nbsp;

Amid the chaos due to Donald Trump tariff imposition on India, the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took an indirect jibe at himsaying that some boss is jealous of Indian economic growth. 

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took an indirect jibe at US President Donald Trump for his tariff imposition on the country. Singh accused that "some boss" is jealous of India's economic growth. Speaking from Madhya Pradesh, the Indian minister said, “Some 'boss' is jealous, unable to accept India's growth; trying to disrupt the country’s economy.” “There are some people who are not happy with the speed at which India is developing. They are not liking it. ‘I am everyone's boss, how is India growing at such a fast pace',” Singh told a gathering. The comment came amid the tension between India and the United States over the 50 per cent tariff Trump levied on the fourth-largest economy in the world. It was apparently over India's continuous purchase of oil from Russia. Trump wants India to stop it within 20 days, or the country will have to pay the price in the form of tariffs. The American president termed India a "dead economy." that when prices rise, the world will stop buying them.” But he insisted, “India is advancing so rapidly that I say with full confidence: no power in the world can now stop India from becoming a major global power.” Trump LOVES two things most Amid the chaos around Donald Trump's tariff imposed on India, former Indian diplomat Rakesh Sood said that the American president loves two things the most: tariffs and the Nobel Peace Prize. He hinted that Trump's moibe must be a prize India has to pay for not endorsing him for the peace prize, as done by Benjamin Netanyahu. Talking to the news agency ANI, Sood said, “There are two things that President Trump loves - One is tariffs, and the second is the Nobel Peace Prize, so he will do anything to get to the bottom of these two.” The former diplomat said that Trump many a time claimed credit for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan during the Operation Sindoor, but India did not give any importance to his claims. "We've not given him comfort on the Nobel, so I guess we are facing the tariffs. We'll see how we deal with it," Sood said.

Amid the chaos due to Donald Trump's tariff imposition on India, the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took an indirect jibe at himsaying that "some boss" is jealous of India's economic growth.&nbsp;

Some 'boss' is jealous of India's growth: Defence minister's indirect jab at Trump over tariff row

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Aug 9) nominated State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce as the next US deputy representative to the United Nations. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that Bruce has done a “fantastic job” since the beginning of his second term in the White House.&nbsp;“I am pleased to announce that I am nominating Tammy Bruce, a Great Patriot, Television Personality, and Bestselling Author, as our next Deputy Representative of the United States to the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador. Since the beginning of my Second Term, Tammy has been serving with distinction as Spokesperson of the State Department, where she did a fantastic job. Tammy Bruce will represent our Country brilliantly at the United Nations. Congratulations Tammy!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Tammy Bruce?</h2>&nbsp;Born in August 1962 in Los Angeles, Bruce only attended high school for two weeks before passing the state proficiency exam. She later completed a degree in political science from the University of Southern California in 2002.&nbsp;In the 1990s, Bruce was a liberal activist and served as the president of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) from 1990 to 1996. Following controversies, including a censure by NOW for comments deemed racially insensitive during the OJ Simpson trial, she resigned from her position.&nbsp;Before being appointed as the spokesperson for the US Department of State since January this year, Tammy Bruce had been hosting ‘Get Tammy Bruce’ on Fox Nation for the last 20 years. She has authored several books, including The New Thought Police (2001), The Death of Right and Wrong (2003), and The New American Revolution (2005). She critiqued left-wing ideologies and reflected her advocacy for personal liberty in her works.&nbsp;Later, she moved to conservative politics, becoming an independent conservative and a vocal critic of progressive feminism.&nbsp;As the spokeswoman of the State Department, Bruce has defended several controversial policies of the Trump administration, including the immigration crackdown and sending private military contractors to Gaza for aid distribution.

As the spokeswoman of the State Department, Bruce has defended several controversial policies of the Trump administration.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Aug 9) nominated State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce as the next US deputy representative to the United Nations. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that Bruce has done a “fantastic job” since the beginning of his second term in the White House. “I am pleased to announce that I am nominating Tammy Bruce, a Great Patriot, Television Personality, and Bestselling Author, as our next Deputy Representative of the United States to the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador. Since the beginning of my Second Term, Tammy has been serving with distinction as Spokesperson of the State Department, where she did a fantastic job. Tammy Bruce will represent our Country brilliantly at the United Nations. Congratulations Tammy!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Who is Tammy Bruce? Born in August 1962 in Los Angeles, Bruce only attended high school for two weeks before passing the state proficiency exam. She later completed a degree in political science from the University of Southern California in 2002. In the 1990s, Bruce was a liberal activist and served as the president of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) from 1990 to 1996. Following controversies, including a censure by NOW for comments deemed racially insensitive during the OJ Simpson trial, she resigned from her position. Before being appointed as the spokesperson for the US Department of State since January this year, Tammy Bruce had been hosting ‘Get Tammy Bruce’ on Fox Nation for the last 20 years. She has authored several books, including The New Thought Police (2001), The Death of Right and Wrong (2003), and The New American Revolution (2005). She critiqued left-wing ideologies and reflected her advocacy for personal liberty in her works. Later, she moved to conservative politics, becoming an independent conservative and a vocal critic of progressive feminism. As the spokeswoman of the State Department, Bruce has defended several controversial policies of the Trump administration, including the immigration crackdown and sending private military contractors to Gaza for aid distribution.

As the spokeswoman of the State Department, Bruce has defended several controversial policies of the Trump administration.

Who is Tammy Bruce? Trump’s pick for next US deputy representative to UN

Bangladesh's poll body chief on Saturday said general elections would be held in the first week of February 2026 but ensuring it in a free, fair and impartial manner remained a major challenge.Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin, however, said the exact date would be disclosed two months before the schedule was announced.&nbsp;"People have lost confidence in the election system, the Election Commission and the administrative machinery involved in the electoral process," state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) quoted Uddin as saying at a function in northwestern Rangpur district.&nbsp;Uddin said his office, however, was "working tirelessly to restore this lost trust." The CEC's comments come four days after interim government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced that the polls would be held in February next year. Yunus had made the announcement coinciding with the first anniversary of the ouster of prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League regime on August 5.&nbsp;The February 2026 polls would be the 13th Parliamentary elections.&nbsp;Uddin attended a meeting with deputy commissioners and superintendents of police of the eight districts of Rangpur division at the Divisional Commissioner's Office in Rangpur on the issue of law and order.&nbsp;The CEC feared that there was a growing apathy among voters as "over the years, people have become disengaged from the voting process" but added "as long as the Election Commission remains conscious of its responsibilities, all actions will strictly follow the rules, regulations and laws." Contrary to civic and rights groups' concerns over the law and order situation in the country, Uddin said, "the law and order is currently stable and we aim to make it even better so that citizens can vote peacefully and without fear."&nbsp;The CEC, however, said the exact date of election would be disclosed two months before the schedule was announced while his office was preparing to conduct the polls within a short time frame despite various challenges.&nbsp;Meanwhile, former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has emerged as the single largest party in Awami League's absence after Yunus' government disbanded its activities under an executive order.&nbsp;BNP's self-exiled acting chairman and Zia's son Tarique Rahman on Friday said the party and its like-minded partners would take part in the February polls as an alliance.&nbsp;The BNP earlier formed a 12-party alliance, mostly centre right groups and a left leaning one, but the party has visibly distanced itself from its once crucial ally, the far right Jamaat-e-Islami.Jamaat was a key-partner in the BNP-led four-party alliance government that ran the country from 2001-2006.&nbsp;Earlier in the 2018 national election, BNP included Jamaat-e-Islami as part of its electoral alliance but since the ouster of the Awami League regime last year, there has been a visible rift between them.&nbsp;Analysts said BNP's decision to distance itself from Jamaat was both political and strategic as it would give BNP a more liberal and contemporary image to civil society, the youth, and centrist political forces.&nbsp;A violent street protest by Students Against Discrimination (SAD) ousted the Awami League government on August 5, 2024. Three days after Hasina fled the country, Yunus had taken over as the chief adviser on August 8. A large offshoot of the SAD formed the National Citizen Party (NCP) in February this year. &nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

The CECs comments come four days after interim government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced that the polls would be held in February next year.

Bangladesh's poll body chief on Saturday said general elections would be held in the first week of February 2026 but ensuring it in a free, fair and impartial manner remained a major challenge. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin, however, said the exact date would be disclosed two months before the schedule was announced. "People have lost confidence in the election system, the Election Commission and the administrative machinery involved in the electoral process," state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) quoted Uddin as saying at a function in northwestern Rangpur district. Uddin said his office, however, was "working tirelessly to restore this lost trust." The CEC's comments come four days after interim government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced that the polls would be held in February next year. Yunus had made the announcement coinciding with the first anniversary of the ouster of prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League regime on August 5. The February 2026 polls would be the 13th Parliamentary elections. Uddin attended a meeting with deputy commissioners and superintendents of police of the eight districts of Rangpur division at the Divisional Commissioner's Office in Rangpur on the issue of law and order. The CEC feared that there was a growing apathy among voters as "over the years, people have become disengaged from the voting process" but added "as long as the Election Commission remains conscious of its responsibilities, all actions will strictly follow the rules, regulations and laws." Contrary to civic and rights groups' concerns over the law and order situation in the country, Uddin said, "the law and order is currently stable and we aim to make it even better so that citizens can vote peacefully and without fear." The CEC, however, said the exact date of election would be disclosed two months before the schedule was announced while his office was preparing to conduct the polls within a short time frame despite various challenges. Meanwhile, former prime minister Khaleda Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has emerged as the single largest party in Awami League's absence after Yunus' government disbanded its activities under an executive order. BNP's self-exiled acting chairman and Zia's son Tarique Rahman on Friday said the party and its like-minded partners would take part in the February polls as an alliance. The BNP earlier formed a 12-party alliance, mostly centre right groups and a left leaning one, but the party has visibly distanced itself from its once crucial ally, the far right Jamaat-e-Islami. Jamaat was a key-partner in the BNP-led four-party alliance government that ran the country from 2001-2006. Earlier in the 2018 national election, BNP included Jamaat-e-Islami as part of its electoral alliance but since the ouster of the Awami League regime last year, there has been a visible rift between them. Analysts said BNP's decision to distance itself from Jamaat was both political and strategic as it would give BNP a more liberal and contemporary image to civil society, the youth, and centrist political forces. A violent street protest by Students Against Discrimination (SAD) ousted the Awami League government on August 5, 2024. Three days after Hasina fled the country, Yunus had taken over as the chief adviser on August 8. A large offshoot of the SAD formed the National Citizen Party (NCP) in February this year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The CEC's comments come four days after interim government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced that the polls would be held in February next year.

Bangladesh to hold election in first week of February, says poll body

Ukraine and European powers have rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a ceasefire in exchange for its eastern territories to Russia. Instead, the Ukrainian and EU officials have presented a counterproposal to the US ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart on August 15 in Alaska. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed that Putin is trying to legalise the occupation of Kyiv’s territories.&nbsp;Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea.&nbsp;Zelensky said on Saturday (Aug 9) that Ukraine “will not give Russia any rewards for what it has done.” He added, “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” The Ukrainian leader’s remarks came after Trump suggested that a peace deal could include “some swapping of territories.”&nbsp;The Wall Street Journal, citing two European officials familiar with the matter, reported that Ukrainian and European officials have responded to Russia’s ceasefire proposal with a counterproposal of their own. It was presented to US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg and Steve Witkoff.&nbsp;The proposal reiterated that Ukraine and Europe should be a part of any negotiations held with Russia. It also demanded the implementation of a ceasefire before any further steps are taken.&nbsp;The recent development comes after the US president said on Friday (Aug 15) that he would meet Putin regardless of whether the Russian leader meets with Zelensky or not. The upcoming meeting is being viewed as a potential breakthrough in more than three years of war between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;Responding to Trump’s announcement, Zelensky warned that any negotiations to end the war must include Kyiv. “Any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace. They will not bring anything. These are dead decisions. They will never work,” he said.&nbsp;European leaders, including France’s President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, expressed support with Ukraine.&nbsp;“Ukraine’s future cannot be decided without the Ukrainians. Europeans will also necessarily be part of the solution, as their own security is at stake,” Macron said.&nbsp;<h2>‘The end of war must be fair’</h2>&nbsp;In a post on X, Zelensky on Sunday (Aug 10) said that the end of the war must be fair. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who stands with Ukraine.&nbsp;“The end of the war must be fair, and I am grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine and our people today for the sake of peace in Ukraine, which is defending the vital security interests of our European nations,” he said. “Ukraine values and fully supports the statement by President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Tusk, Prime Minister Starmer, President Ursula von der Leyen, and President Stubb on peace for Ukraine.”&nbsp;

Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea.

Ukraine and European powers have rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a ceasefire in exchange for its eastern territories to Russia. Instead, the Ukrainian and EU officials have presented a counterproposal to the US ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart on August 15 in Alaska. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed that Putin is trying to legalise the occupation of Kyiv’s territories. Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea. Zelensky said on Saturday (Aug 9) that Ukraine “will not give Russia any rewards for what it has done.” He added, “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” The Ukrainian leader’s remarks came after Trump suggested that a peace deal could include “some swapping of territories.” The Wall Street Journal, citing two European officials familiar with the matter, reported that Ukrainian and European officials have responded to Russia’s ceasefire proposal with a counterproposal of their own. It was presented to US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg and Steve Witkoff. The proposal reiterated that Ukraine and Europe should be a part of any negotiations held with Russia. It also demanded the implementation of a ceasefire before any further steps are taken. The recent development comes after the US president said on Friday (Aug 15) that he would meet Putin regardless of whether the Russian leader meets with Zelensky or not. The upcoming meeting is being viewed as a potential breakthrough in more than three years of war between Russia and Ukraine. Responding to Trump’s announcement, Zelensky warned that any negotiations to end the war must include Kyiv. “Any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace. They will not bring anything. These are dead decisions. They will never work,” he said. European leaders, including France’s President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, expressed support with Ukraine. “Ukraine’s future cannot be decided without the Ukrainians. Europeans will also necessarily be part of the solution, as their own security is at stake,” Macron said. ‘The end of war must be fair’ In a post on X, Zelensky on Sunday (Aug 10) said that the end of the war must be fair. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who stands with Ukraine. “The end of the war must be fair, and I am grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine and our people today for the sake of peace in Ukraine, which is defending the vital security interests of our European nations,” he said. “Ukraine values and fully supports the statement by President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Tusk, Prime Minister Starmer, President Ursula von der Leyen, and President Stubb on peace for Ukraine.”

Earlier on August 6, Putin told the US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia would agree to a complete ceasefire if Ukraine withdrew its forces from Donetsk Oblast and gave Moscow control of Donetsk, Luhansk Oblasts, and Crimea.

Ukraine, Europe present counter ceasefire proposal, reject Putin’s land swap demand: Report

Negotiations for a comprehensive trade deal between India and Oman, which commenced in 2023, have been concluded. "India-Oman CEPA negotiations have been concluded," Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada informed Rajya Sabha in a written reply this week while responding to a question from Congress member Hebi Mather Hisham relating to India's trade deals. &nbsp;India and Oman share a longstanding history of friendship and cooperation, built on the foundation of mutual trust and respect, and strong people-to-people ties going back centuries. &nbsp;The two countries are strategic partners, and the bilateral trade and investment relationship between them has flourished since diplomatic relations were established in 1955, which was upgraded to a strategic partnership in 2008. &nbsp;The minister, in his reply, however, didn't mention any date or timeline on the expected signing ceremony for the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. &nbsp;Further, the Minister apprised the Upper House that India has strengthened its trade ties over the past five years, signing five major Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and progressing on several new deals. &nbsp;Congress member Jebi Mather Hisham asked the Minister to apprise the House about the number of international trade agreements that have been signed by India in the last five years, besides details of their implementation. &nbsp;The agreements inked over the past 5 years include the India-Mauritius Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) implemented in 2021, the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) in 2022, the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) in 2024, and the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed in 2025, which is yet to come into force. &nbsp;The India-European Union Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) is expected to be implemented later this year once all parties complete their ratification processes. Meanwhile, India is in talks for several other agreements, including the India-EU FTA, India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement, India-Peru FTA, India-Chile CEPA, India-New Zealand FTA, and a bilateral trade agreement with the United States.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India and Oman share a longstanding history of friendship and cooperation, built on the foundation of mutual trust and respect, and strong people-to-people ties going back centuries.

Negotiations for a comprehensive trade deal between India and Oman, which commenced in 2023, have been concluded. "India-Oman CEPA negotiations have been concluded," Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada informed Rajya Sabha in a written reply this week while responding to a question from Congress member Hebi Mather Hisham relating to India's trade deals. India and Oman share a longstanding history of friendship and cooperation, built on the foundation of mutual trust and respect, and strong people-to-people ties going back centuries. The two countries are strategic partners, and the bilateral trade and investment relationship between them has flourished since diplomatic relations were established in 1955, which was upgraded to a strategic partnership in 2008. The minister, in his reply, however, didn't mention any date or timeline on the expected signing ceremony for the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Further, the Minister apprised the Upper House that India has strengthened its trade ties over the past five years, signing five major Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and progressing on several new deals. Congress member Jebi Mather Hisham asked the Minister to apprise the House about the number of international trade agreements that have been signed by India in the last five years, besides details of their implementation. The agreements inked over the past 5 years include the India-Mauritius Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) implemented in 2021, the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) in 2022, the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) in 2024, and the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed in 2025, which is yet to come into force. The India-European Union Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) is expected to be implemented later this year once all parties complete their ratification processes. Meanwhile, India is in talks for several other agreements, including the India-EU FTA, India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement, India-Peru FTA, India-Chile CEPA, India-New Zealand FTA, and a bilateral trade agreement with the United States. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India and Oman share a longstanding history of friendship and cooperation, built on the foundation of mutual trust and respect, and strong people-to-people ties going back centuries.

India and Oman conclude trade deal negotiations

US President Donald Trump's move to slap high tariffs and begin a trade war across the world was not just for prospering America's economy, as he claims, but was also aimed at serving the interests of individual companies, including Elon Musk's Starlink, a Washington Post report stated, citing internal government documents obtained by the outlet.&nbsp;With imposing a whopping 50 per cent tariff on India, citing the imports of Russian oil amid the Ukraine war, asking Israel to eliminate a Chinese company's control of a key port and also pushing South Korea to publicly support deploying US troops to deter China, Trump has taken several measures amid his ongoing trade war, the documents read.&nbsp;In the eight-page documents of "supplemental negotiating objectives", US officials acknowledged that potential accords would cover issues, including military basing, which is not usually found in a trade agreement.&nbsp;The US officials also discussed forcing other nations to provide concessions for individual companies, including Elon Musk's Starlink and Chevron, which is one of the world's 10 largest oil producers.&nbsp;The documents also revealed that in the first weeks after Trump paused his "reciprocal tariffs", the US officials made plans to press countries near China for better defence relations, including the purchase of US equipment and port visits.&nbsp;“This is the first time I’ve seen that type of request in a trade agreement. When you’re sitting at the negotiating table, you’re not talking about this stuff,” Wendy Cutler, who spent more than a quarter century in the Office of the US Trade Representative, said.&nbsp;One State Department employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "The document sent shock waves through the government. This isn't normally how it works."&nbsp;In the past months, Trump has mixed trade and other unrelated issues, which have concerned him. He threatened Brazil to halt its prosecution of former president Jair Bolsonaro, or face 50 per cent tariffs.In January, he threatened to impose tariffs on Colombian goods unless the leader agreed to accept deported migrants.

The US officials also discussed forcing other nations to provide concessions for individual companies, including Elon Musk's Starlink and Chevron, which is one of the world's 10 largest oil producers.

US President Donald Trump's move to slap high tariffs and begin a trade war across the world was not just for prospering America's economy, as he claims, but was also aimed at serving the interests of individual companies, including Elon Musk's Starlink, a Washington Post report stated, citing internal government documents obtained by the outlet. With imposing a whopping 50 per cent tariff on India, citing the imports of Russian oil amid the Ukraine war, asking Israel to eliminate a Chinese company's control of a key port and also pushing South Korea to publicly support deploying US troops to deter China, Trump has taken several measures amid his ongoing trade war, the documents read. In the eight-page documents of "supplemental negotiating objectives", US officials acknowledged that potential accords would cover issues, including military basing, which is not usually found in a trade agreement. The US officials also discussed forcing other nations to provide concessions for individual companies, including Elon Musk's Starlink and Chevron, which is one of the world's 10 largest oil producers. The documents also revealed that in the first weeks after Trump paused his "reciprocal tariffs", the US officials made plans to press countries near China for better defence relations, including the purchase of US equipment and port visits. “This is the first time I’ve seen that type of request in a trade agreement. When you’re sitting at the negotiating table, you’re not talking about this stuff,” Wendy Cutler, who spent more than a quarter century in the Office of the US Trade Representative, said. One State Department employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "The document sent shock waves through the government. This isn't normally how it works." In the past months, Trump has mixed trade and other unrelated issues, which have concerned him. He threatened Brazil to halt its prosecution of former president Jair Bolsonaro, or face 50 per cent tariffs. In January, he threatened to impose tariffs on Colombian goods unless the leader agreed to accept deported migrants.

The US officials also discussed forcing other nations to provide concessions for individual companies, including Elon Musk's Starlink and Chevron, which is one of the world's 10 largest oil producers.

Trump's tariff twist: Shocking documents reveal boost for big corporate allies – including Musk's Starlink

The United States blocked a planned visit by Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to Pakistan by refusing to approve a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) travel ban exemption, according to a report by Dawn.According to Dawn, Muttaqi was scheduled to visit Pakistan on August 4 as part of a recent push to improve relations between Kabul and Islamabad. The engagement followed Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's earlier visit to Kabul, which had been facilitated by China.Citing diplomatic sources, Dawn said that as the Afghan foreign minister is under international sanctions, he is barred from foreign travel without a special waiver from the UN sanctions committee. The committee, set up under UNSC Resolution 1988 (2011), oversees travel bans, asset freezes, and arms embargoes on Taliban-linked figures.The Dawn report stated that Washington delayed its decision until the last moment before ultimately refusing to grant the waiver, effectively scuttling the trip.Dawn noted that the US decision is believed to have been influenced by concerns over the Taliban government's growing closeness with China.When asked at a recent briefing whether the US had blocked Muttaqi's travel, the State Department said, "We do not comment on rumours," Dawn reported.Pakistan's Foreign Office, however, did not directly confirm the US role. At a weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan told reporters there were "certain procedural issues" being worked out and maintained that no official dates had been confirmed for Muttaqi's visit. As quoted by Dawn, he added, "Once these procedural matters are resolved, we look forward to welcoming the Afghan foreign minister to Pakistan."The Dawn report also highlighted that the US has often clashed with China and Russia in the UNSC sanctions committee, with Beijing and Moscow supporting more lenient travel exemptions for Taliban officials.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION&nbsp;audience.

Washington delayed its decision until the last moment before ultimately refusing to grant the waiver, effectively scuttling the trip, according to reports. 

The United States blocked a planned visit by Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to Pakistan by refusing to approve a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) travel ban exemption, according to a report by Dawn. According to Dawn, Muttaqi was scheduled to visit Pakistan on August 4 as part of a recent push to improve relations between Kabul and Islamabad. The engagement followed Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's earlier visit to Kabul, which had been facilitated by China. Citing diplomatic sources, Dawn said that as the Afghan foreign minister is under international sanctions, he is barred from foreign travel without a special waiver from the UN sanctions committee. The committee, set up under UNSC Resolution 1988 (2011), oversees travel bans, asset freezes, and arms embargoes on Taliban-linked figures. The Dawn report stated that Washington delayed its decision until the last moment before ultimately refusing to grant the waiver, effectively scuttling the trip. Dawn noted that the US decision is believed to have been influenced by concerns over the Taliban government's growing closeness with China. When asked at a recent briefing whether the US had blocked Muttaqi's travel, the State Department said, "We do not comment on rumours," Dawn reported. Pakistan's Foreign Office, however, did not directly confirm the US role. At a weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan told reporters there were "certain procedural issues" being worked out and maintained that no official dates had been confirmed for Muttaqi's visit. As quoted by Dawn, he added, "Once these procedural matters are resolved, we look forward to welcoming the Afghan foreign minister to Pakistan." The Dawn report also highlighted that the US has often clashed with China and Russia in the UNSC sanctions committee, with Beijing and Moscow supporting more lenient travel exemptions for Taliban officials. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Washington delayed its decision until the last moment before ultimately refusing to grant the waiver, effectively scuttling the trip, according to reports.&nbsp;

US allegedly blocks Afghan's foreign minister Pakistan visit over UN travel ban waiver

In this contemporary warfare world, UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) technology has reached its unique and new heights, with advanced drones that are reshaping battlefield strategies and bolstering military capabilities with effectiveness.

'From spies to strikers': Meet the world’s 7 most advanced combat military drones

world

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

world news

Pakistan army chief makes nuclear threat against India and world, says 'if we go down, we'll take half the world down with us'

Powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake hits western Turkey; buildings collapse

Hamas accuses Netanyahu of reeling out ‘series of lies’ in Gaza press conference

Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York

Senior Chinese diplomat detained after foreign trip

UK’s F-35 jet makes emergency landing in Japan; Chinese, Russian media mock RAF

'They were offered statehood multiple times, but they rejected': Netanyahu

South Korea’s military shrinks by 20% in six years due to drops in population

Germany 'hopes' Zelensky is at the table during Trump-Putin meet in Alaska

'Destruction in Gaza is a result of booby traps by Hamas': Netanyahu

Netanyahu slams Gaza famine claims; introduces plan to improve aid distribution

Netanyahu says he doesn't want to 'occupy Gaza' as Israel prepares for offensive

This country is being evacuated due to global warming!

'18,000 children killed in Gaza so far': Senior UN official says Netanyahu's takeover plan risks 'another calamity'

Netanyahu reveals five-point plan for Gaza after the war

EXPLAINED: US nulls interview waiver program for H1-B and other visas

‘India racing to top 3 economies,’ says PM after Trump’s ‘dead economy’ comment

With Netanyahu's Gaza announcement hours away, here's all you need to know

Some 'boss' is jealous of India's growth: Defence minister

Who is Tammy Bruce? Trump’s pick for next US deputy representative to UN

Bangladesh to hold election in first week of February, says poll body

Ukraine, Europe present counter ceasefire proposal, reject Putin’s demand

India and Oman conclude trade deal negotiations

Trump's tariff twist: Docs show boost for big allies, including Musk's Starlink

US allegedly blocks Afghan's FM Pakistan visit over UN travel ban waiver

'From spies to strikers': Meet the world’s 7 most advanced combat drones