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Benjamin Netanyahu is ready to fully occupy the Gaza Strip to achieve his war objectives in the region. He claimed that he is not planning to annexe the strip but will surely escalate his military offensive in the region. Even after extreme criticism from various countries and leaders from his own nation, the Israeli PM kept insisting that this was the only way Israel could achieve its biggest objective in Gaza - which is the fall of Hamas. On August 8, Netanyahu repeated his claim, saying, "We are not going to occupy Gaza - we are going to free Gaza from Hamas. Gaza will be demilitarised, and a peaceful civilian administration will be established, one that is not the Palestinian Authority, not Hamas, and not any other terrorist organisation."&nbsp;"This will help free our hostages and ensure Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future," he added.But here is certainly something that the Israeli PM might be missing. His master plan might create problems for the Palestinian terror group, but it would not be beneficial for his people either. After Gazans, people who will be adversely affected by Netanyahu's occupation plan will be the Israeli hostages trapped in Gaza.<h2>'Will not be a picnic'</h2>Hamas said on August 8 in a stern warning that Netanyahu's plan to occupy the region "is an adventure that will cost it a heavy price and will not be a picnic." The group added, "Our people and their resistance are resilient to being broken or surrendered, and Netanyahu's plans and illusions will fail."&nbsp;Moreover, Hamas even said that they were ready to release all the hostages from Gaza in exchange for stopping the war and withdrawing its forces. But Netanyahu has not responded to this offer yet. Rather, he posted on X reaffiring his plan. This raised doubts around Netanyahu's claim that releasing the hostages is his priority.&nbsp;The militant group said that “Netanyahu’s plans to escalate the aggression confirm beyond any doubt his desire to get rid of the captives and sacrifice them in pursuit of his personal interests and extremist ideological agenda."<h2>‘A disaster for generations’</h2>The Israeli opposition also slammed the present government by calling the latest plan a "disaster" that will lead to more deaths of Israeli people. The Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said that the plan was made in “complete contradiction to the opinion of the military and security ranks.”&nbsp;Lapid added that the National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich “dragged” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “into a move that will take months, lead to the deaths of the hostages, the killing of many soldiers, cost tens of billions to the Israeli taxpayer, and lead to a political collapse." &nbsp; “This is exactly what Hamas wanted: for Israel to be trapped in the field without a goal, without defining the picture of the day after, in a useless occupation that no one understands where it is leading," he said.<h2>Israelis protest the plan</h2>Hundreds of Israelis gathered outside Netanyahu's office on Friday to protest against his plan to escalate the war in Gaza, citing the lives of the hostages held by Hamas. Not just that, over a hundred UK-based Israelis and allies led by the grassroots activist group Mi-neged staged a protest outside the Foreign Office to put pressure on Keir Starmer to impose immediate sanctions on Israel and end the war.<h2>What does Netanyahu really want?</h2>As per BBC, many Israeli leaders believe that the reason behind Netanyahu prolonging the conflict is to ensure a guarantee of his coalition's survival - which is solely based on the support of ultranationalist ministers who have threatened to quit the government if the war ends.&nbsp;This does make sense as the country is already 305 days into the war and Netanyahu is yet to offer a vision for Gaza. It also must be noted that the October 7 attack killed around &nbsp;1,200 people, and 251 were taken as hostages by Hamas. Meanwhile, Israel's military occupation in Gaza has killed over &nbsp;61,000 Palestinians, as per the region's health ministry.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is ready to fully occupy the Gaza Strip to achieve his war objectives in the region. He claimed that he is not planning to annexe the strip but will surely escalate his military offensive in the region, despite massive outrage over the decision.

Benjamin Netanyahu is ready to fully occupy the Gaza Strip to achieve his war objectives in the region. He claimed that he is not planning to annexe the strip but will surely escalate his military offensive in the region. Even after extreme criticism from various countries and leaders from his own nation, the Israeli PM kept insisting that this was the only way Israel could achieve its biggest objective in Gaza - which is the fall of Hamas. On August 8, Netanyahu repeated his claim, saying, "We are not going to occupy Gaza - we are going to free Gaza from Hamas. Gaza will be demilitarised, and a peaceful civilian administration will be established, one that is not the Palestinian Authority, not Hamas, and not any other terrorist organisation." "This will help free our hostages and ensure Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future," he added. But here is certainly something that the Israeli PM might be missing. His master plan might create problems for the Palestinian terror group, but it would not be beneficial for his people either. After Gazans, people who will be adversely affected by Netanyahu's occupation plan will be the Israeli hostages trapped in Gaza. 'Will not be a picnic' Hamas said on August 8 in a stern warning that Netanyahu's plan to occupy the region "is an adventure that will cost it a heavy price and will not be a picnic." The group added, "Our people and their resistance are resilient to being broken or surrendered, and Netanyahu's plans and illusions will fail." Moreover, Hamas even said that they were ready to release all the hostages from Gaza in exchange for stopping the war and withdrawing its forces. But Netanyahu has not responded to this offer yet. Rather, he posted on X reaffiring his plan. This raised doubts around Netanyahu's claim that releasing the hostages is his priority. The militant group said that “Netanyahu’s plans to escalate the aggression confirm beyond any doubt his desire to get rid of the captives and sacrifice them in pursuit of his personal interests and extremist ideological agenda." ‘A disaster for generations’ The Israeli opposition also slammed the present government by calling the latest plan a "disaster" that will lead to more deaths of Israeli people. The Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said that the plan was made in “complete contradiction to the opinion of the military and security ranks.” Lapid added that the National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich “dragged” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “into a move that will take months, lead to the deaths of the hostages, the killing of many soldiers, cost tens of billions to the Israeli taxpayer, and lead to a political collapse." “This is exactly what Hamas wanted: for Israel to be trapped in the field without a goal, without defining the picture of the day after, in a useless occupation that no one understands where it is leading," he said. Israelis protest the plan Hundreds of Israelis gathered outside Netanyahu's office on Friday to protest against his plan to escalate the war in Gaza, citing the lives of the hostages held by Hamas. Not just that, over a hundred UK-based Israelis and allies led by the grassroots activist group Mi-neged staged a protest outside the Foreign Office to put pressure on Keir Starmer to impose immediate sanctions on Israel and end the war. What does Netanyahu really want? As per BBC, many Israeli leaders believe that the reason behind Netanyahu prolonging the conflict is to ensure a guarantee of his coalition's survival - which is solely based on the support of ultranationalist ministers who have threatened to quit the government if the war ends. This does make sense as the country is already 305 days into the war and Netanyahu is yet to offer a vision for Gaza. It also must be noted that the October 7 attack killed around 1,200 people, and 251 were taken as hostages by Hamas. Meanwhile, Israel's military occupation in Gaza has killed over 61,000 Palestinians, as per the region's health ministry.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is ready to fully occupy the Gaza Strip to achieve his war objectives in the region. He claimed that he is not planning to annexe the strip but will surely escalate his military offensive in the region, despite massive outrage over the decision.

Netanyahu's Gaza takeover plan is bad for Hamas and worse for Israel

Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper, one of the world's biggest by circulation, is suing US-based AI firm Perplexity for allegedly "free-riding" on its content on its search engine. The lawsuit filed Thursday is one of a slew by media companies worldwide against AI firms using their material and is the first by a major Japanese news organisation, Yomiuri said.&nbsp;It accuses Perplexity of "free-riding on the results of the activities of news organisations, which have invested a great deal of effort and expense". A spokesman for the paper added that this "could have a negative impact on accurate journalism... and shake the foundations of democracy".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/perplexity-denies-cloudflare-accusation-of-secretly-scraping-restricted-websites-1754488233534">Perplexity denies Cloudflare accusation of secretly scraping restricted websites</a>&nbsp;The lawsuit filed in Tokyo seeks damages of 2.2 billion yen ($14.7 million), equivalent to 120,000 Yomuiri articles used "without permission" between February and June. It is also seeking damages for lost advertising revenue, saying that Perplexity users click only on its search summaries and not on the newspaper's website, reducing traffic.&nbsp;The Yomiuri, with a daily circulation of around six million -- down from over 10 million in 2010 -- and some 2,500 reporters, is one of five major daily newspapers in Japan. Perplexity was not immediately available for comment.&nbsp;After a lawsuit by the Wall Street Journal and the New York Post in October, Perplexity criticised the "adversarial posture" of many media as "shortsighted, unnecessary, and self-defeating".&nbsp;They "prefer to live in a world where publicly reported facts are owned by corporations, and no one can do anything with those publicly reported facts without paying a toll," it said."We should all be working together to offer people amazing new tools and build genuinely pie-expanding businesses." &nbsp;

Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper, one of the world's biggest by circulation, is suing US-based AI firm Perplexity for allegedly "free-riding" on its content on its search engine. 

Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper, one of the world's biggest by circulation, is suing US-based AI firm Perplexity for allegedly "free-riding" on its content on its search engine. The lawsuit filed Thursday is one of a slew by media companies worldwide against AI firms using their material and is the first by a major Japanese news organisation, Yomiuri said. It accuses Perplexity of "free-riding on the results of the activities of news organisations, which have invested a great deal of effort and expense". A spokesman for the paper added that this "could have a negative impact on accurate journalism... and shake the foundations of democracy". Also read: Perplexity denies Cloudflare accusation of secretly scraping restricted websites The lawsuit filed in Tokyo seeks damages of 2.2 billion yen ($14.7 million), equivalent to 120,000 Yomuiri articles used "without permission" between February and June. It is also seeking damages for lost advertising revenue, saying that Perplexity users click only on its search summaries and not on the newspaper's website, reducing traffic. The Yomiuri, with a daily circulation of around six million -- down from over 10 million in 2010 -- and some 2,500 reporters, is one of five major daily newspapers in Japan. Perplexity was not immediately available for comment. After a lawsuit by the Wall Street Journal and the New York Post in October, Perplexity criticised the "adversarial posture" of many media as "shortsighted, unnecessary, and self-defeating". They "prefer to live in a world where publicly reported facts are owned by corporations, and no one can do anything with those publicly reported facts without paying a toll," it said. "We should all be working together to offer people amazing new tools and build genuinely pie-expanding businesses."

Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper, one of the world's biggest by circulation, is suing US-based AI firm Perplexity for allegedly "free-riding" on its content on its search engine.&nbsp;

'120,000 articles without permission': Japan newspaper accuses Perplexity AI

China on Friday (Aug 8) welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, which is expected to take place later this month on August 31. The SCO currently has nine members- China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Uzbekistan. As per the PTI, PM Narendra Modi is likely to attend the SCO Summit scheduled for August 31 to September 1 in Tianjin, and this will be his first trip to China in seven years (since 2018). Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, told reporters that China is happy to welcome PM Modi for the Tianjin Summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;"China welcomes Prime Minister Modi to China for the SCO Tianjin Summit. We believe that with the concerted effort of all parties, the Tianjin summit will be a gathering of solidarity, friendship and fruitful results, and the SCO will enter a new stage of high-quality development featuring greater solidarity, coordination, dynamism and productiveness,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated, according to ANI.&nbsp;According to Guo Jiakun, leaders from over 20 countries, including all SCO member nations and heads of 10 global organisations, are expected to attend the summit. He added that this would be the largest SCO Summit since its establishment.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-likely-to-join-sco-summit-in-china-as-india-china-ties-remain-tense-1752313497654">https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-likely-to-join-sco-summit-in-china-as-india-china-ties-remain-tense-1752313497654</a>&nbsp;PM Modi’s visit to China is part of a two-nation tour, which also includes Japan. He is expected to go to Japan around August 29 before heading to Tianjin for the SCO Summit. This visit aims to improve the ties between the two countries (India and China), which deteriorated after a clash between their armies in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. So far, there has been no official confirmation of the visit.&nbsp;PM Modi's last visit to China was in June 2018 for the SCO summit, and Chinese President Xi Jinping last visited India in October 2019 for an informal meeting.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to reach Tianjin after a stop in Japan, where he will hold the annual India-Japan summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on August 30.

China on Friday (Aug 8) welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, which is expected to take place later this month on August 31. The SCO currently has nine members- China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Uzbekistan. As per the PTI, PM Narendra Modi is likely to attend the SCO Summit scheduled for August 31 to September 1 in Tianjin, and this will be his first trip to China in seven years (since 2018). Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, told reporters that China is happy to welcome PM Modi for the Tianjin Summit. "China welcomes Prime Minister Modi to China for the SCO Tianjin Summit. We believe that with the concerted effort of all parties, the Tianjin summit will be a gathering of solidarity, friendship and fruitful results, and the SCO will enter a new stage of high-quality development featuring greater solidarity, coordination, dynamism and productiveness,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated, according to ANI. According to Guo Jiakun, leaders from over 20 countries, including all SCO member nations and heads of 10 global organisations, are expected to attend the summit. He added that this would be the largest SCO Summit since its establishment. Also Read - https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-likely-to-join-sco-summit-in-china-as-india-china-ties-remain-tense-1752313497654 PM Modi’s visit to China is part of a two-nation tour, which also includes Japan. He is expected to go to Japan around August 29 before heading to Tianjin for the SCO Summit. This visit aims to improve the ties between the two countries (India and China), which deteriorated after a clash between their armies in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. So far, there has been no official confirmation of the visit. PM Modi's last visit to China was in June 2018 for the SCO summit, and Chinese President Xi Jinping last visited India in October 2019 for an informal meeting.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to reach Tianjin after a stop in Japan, where he will hold the annual India-Japan summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on August 30.

'Gathering of solidarity, friendship...': China welcomes PM Modi for SCO Summit visit

Lip-Bu Tan, the CEO of Intel, attempted to clear the air about his alleged links to Chinese firms, saying misinformation has been circulated about his past roles at some China-linked firms and that he has been engaging with the US administration to address its concerns. US President Donald Trump demanded his resignation over an alleged conflict&nbsp;of interest.&nbsp;"There has been a lot of misinformation circulating about my past roles at Walden International and Cadence Design Systems. I want to be clear: Over 40+ years in the industry, I’ve built relationships around the world and across our diverse ecosystem – and I have always operated within the highest legal and ethical standards. My reputation has been built on trust – on doing what I say I’ll do, and doing it the right way. This is the same way I am leading Intel," he said.&nbsp;He said he and Intel are in touch with the US administration.&nbsp;He said Intel's board is supportive of his work.&nbsp;"It’s especially exciting to see us ramping toward high-volume manufacturing using the most advanced semiconductor process technology in the country later this year. It will be a major milestone that’s a testament to your work and the important role Intel plays in the US technology ecosystem," he added.&nbsp;Tan said he has been living in the United States for 40 years, and he loves the country. He called leading Intel a "privilege".&nbsp;Donald Trump said on Thursday that the Intel CEO must resign.&nbsp;"The CEO of INTEL is highly CONFLICTED and must resign, immediately. There is no other solution to this problem. Thank you for your attention to this problem!" he wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;US Senator Tom Cotton alleged that the Intel CEO had investments in chip firms in China linked to the Chinese military or the Communist Party.

Lip-Bu Tan, the CEO of Intel, attempted to clear the air about his alleged links to Chinese firms, saying misinformation has been circulated about his past roles at some China-linked firms and that he has been engaging with the US administration to address its concerns. 

Lip-Bu Tan, the CEO of Intel, attempted to clear the air about his alleged links to Chinese firms, saying misinformation has been circulated about his past roles at some China-linked firms and that he has been engaging with the US administration to address its concerns. US President Donald Trump demanded his resignation over an alleged conflict of interest. "There has been a lot of misinformation circulating about my past roles at Walden International and Cadence Design Systems. I want to be clear: Over 40+ years in the industry, I’ve built relationships around the world and across our diverse ecosystem – and I have always operated within the highest legal and ethical standards. My reputation has been built on trust – on doing what I say I’ll do, and doing it the right way. This is the same way I am leading Intel," he said. He said he and Intel are in touch with the US administration. He said Intel's board is supportive of his work. "It’s especially exciting to see us ramping toward high-volume manufacturing using the most advanced semiconductor process technology in the country later this year. It will be a major milestone that’s a testament to your work and the important role Intel plays in the US technology ecosystem," he added. Tan said he has been living in the United States for 40 years, and he loves the country. He called leading Intel a "privilege". Donald Trump said on Thursday that the Intel CEO must resign. "The CEO of INTEL is highly CONFLICTED and must resign, immediately. There is no other solution to this problem. Thank you for your attention to this problem!" he wrote on Truth Social. US Senator Tom Cotton alleged that the Intel CEO had investments in chip firms in China linked to the Chinese military or the Communist Party.

Donald Trump on Thursday flagged alleged conflict of interest of Lip-Bu Tan and sought his resignation.

Lip-Bu Tan, Intel CEO, responds to Donald Trump's 'resign' post: 'Misinformation...'

US President Donald Trump on Friday defended his decision to impose tariffs and said they are having a huge positive impact on the US stock market. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “Tariffs are having a huge positive impact on the Stock Market. Almost every day, new records are set. In addition, Hundreds of Billions of Dollars are pouring into our Country’s coffers.(sic)”&nbsp;Trump then warned that striking down his reciprocal tariffs policy by a court could plunge the United States into an economic collapse reminiscent of the Great Depression of 1929.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump further argued that if a “Radical Left Court” rules against the tariffs at this stage, then it would “disturb the largest amount of money, wealth creation and influence the U.S.A. has ever seen” and cause losses so severe “it would be impossible to ever recover, or pay back.” It would be 1929 all over again, he warned.&nbsp;“If a Radical Left Court ruled against us at this late date, in an attempt to bring down or disturb the largest amount of money, wealth creation and influence the U.S.A. has ever seen, it would be impossible to ever recover, or pay back, these massive sums of money and honor. It would be 1929 all over again, a GREAT DEPRESSION! If they were going to rule against the wealth, strength, and power of America, they should have done so LONG AGO, at the beginning of the case, where our entire Country, while never having a chance at this kind of GREATNESS again, would not have been put in 1929 style jeopardy.”&nbsp;

Calling such a verdict a “judicial tragedy,” Trump added that America would not be able to recover from it.“Our Country deserves SUCCESS AND GREATNESS, NOT TURMOIL, FAILURE, AND DISGRACE. GOD BLESS AMERICA!” he concluded.

Donald Trump warned that if any court strikes down his reciprocal tariffs policy, then it could plunge the United States into an economic collapse reminiscent of the Great Depression of 1929. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday defended his decision to impose tariffs and said they are having a huge positive impact on the US stock market. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “Tariffs are having a huge positive impact on the Stock Market. Almost every day, new records are set. In addition, Hundreds of Billions of Dollars are pouring into our Country’s coffers.(sic)” Trump then warned that striking down his reciprocal tariffs policy by a court could plunge the United States into an economic collapse reminiscent of the Great Depression of 1929. Trump further argued that if a “Radical Left Court” rules against the tariffs at this stage, then it would “disturb the largest amount of money, wealth creation and influence the U.S.A. has ever seen” and cause losses so severe “it would be impossible to ever recover, or pay back.” It would be 1929 all over again, he warned. “If a Radical Left Court ruled against us at this late date, in an attempt to bring down or disturb the largest amount of money, wealth creation and influence the U.S.A. has ever seen, it would be impossible to ever recover, or pay back, these massive sums of money and honor. It would be 1929 all over again, a GREAT DEPRESSION! If they were going to rule against the wealth, strength, and power of America, they should have done so LONG AGO, at the beginning of the case, where our entire Country, while never having a chance at this kind of GREATNESS again, would not have been put in 1929 style jeopardy.”

Donald Trump warned that if any court strikes down his reciprocal tariffs policy, then it could plunge the United States into an economic collapse reminiscent of the Great Depression of 1929.&nbsp;

‘Stock market setting new records’: Trump defends his tariffs

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Friday (August 8) that it was ready for a comprehensive deal with Israel to release all the hostages in Gaza. This came amid the chaos around Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to take over the Gaza Strip. In an official statement posted on its social media, Hamas said, “We have shown all flexibility through Egyptian and Qatari mediators to make the ceasefire a success. We are ready for a comprehensive deal to release all occupation prisoners in exchange for stopping the war and withdrawing its forces.”&nbsp;The militant group also said that the plan to occupy Gaza "is an adventure that will cost it a heavy price and will not be a picnic."&nbsp;"Our people and their resistance are resilient to being broken or surrendered, and Netanyahu's plans and illusions will fail," the group added.<h2>Netanyahu's plan 'won't defeat Hamas or free hostages'</h2>Meanwhile, the former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that expanding military action in Gaza will not defeat Hamas or free the hostages. "To assume that now we are going to reach out for what remained of Hamas and rescue the hostages is a fantasy. It will not happen," Olmert said during an interview with The Associated Press. Not only him, but Netanyahu's plan to fully occupy the Gaza Strip has drawn massive outrage from several countries as well, including Saudi Arabia and the UK.<h2>What's in the plan?</h2>As per a report by Channel 12, in the first phase of the plan, the Netanyahu government will issue an evacuation notice to 1 million residents of Gaza City - almost 50 per cent of the entire Palestinian population. This will, as per Netanyahu, give some time for his officials to establish civilian infrastructure like hospitals and camps in the Gaza Strip for evacuees. This process is said to last for several weeks.&nbsp;In the second phase of the plan, the Israeli military will launch an offensive in the region. At that time, US President Donald Trump would give a speech in which he would announce the acceleration of humanitarian aid in coordination with Israel, the Channel 12 report said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg News on Wednesday (August 6) that there was an effort to add 12 aid sites to the already existing four, operated by the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.&nbsp;Huckabee said, "A quadrupling over two months, if possible. It’s all about funding." He added, “I think there’s still some question about areas of the north that may depend on whether the IDF can clear those areas and make it safe.”&nbsp;The US, along with other countries, would fund this expansion by donating around $1 billion to Israel. In addition, the plan also said that the civilian population of the strip is expected to be further pushed toward the southern Strip, while manoeuvres take place in areas where hostages are believed to be held, with efforts toward avoiding any harm to them.&nbsp;

Amid the chaos around the plan to take over Gaza, the Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Friday (August 8) that it was ready for a comprehensive deal with Israel to release all the hostages in Gaza. 

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Friday (August 8) that it was ready for a comprehensive deal with Israel to release all the hostages in Gaza. This came amid the chaos around Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to take over the Gaza Strip. In an official statement posted on its social media, Hamas said, “We have shown all flexibility through Egyptian and Qatari mediators to make the ceasefire a success. We are ready for a comprehensive deal to release all occupation prisoners in exchange for stopping the war and withdrawing its forces.” The militant group also said that the plan to occupy Gaza "is an adventure that will cost it a heavy price and will not be a picnic." "Our people and their resistance are resilient to being broken or surrendered, and Netanyahu's plans and illusions will fail," the group added. Netanyahu's plan 'won't defeat Hamas or free hostages' Meanwhile, the former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that expanding military action in Gaza will not defeat Hamas or free the hostages. "To assume that now we are going to reach out for what remained of Hamas and rescue the hostages is a fantasy. It will not happen," Olmert said during an interview with The Associated Press. Not only him, but Netanyahu's plan to fully occupy the Gaza Strip has drawn massive outrage from several countries as well, including Saudi Arabia and the UK. What's in the plan? As per a report by Channel 12, in the first phase of the plan, the Netanyahu government will issue an evacuation notice to 1 million residents of Gaza City - almost 50 per cent of the entire Palestinian population. This will, as per Netanyahu, give some time for his officials to establish civilian infrastructure like hospitals and camps in the Gaza Strip for evacuees. This process is said to last for several weeks. In the second phase of the plan, the Israeli military will launch an offensive in the region. At that time, US President Donald Trump would give a speech in which he would announce the acceleration of humanitarian aid in coordination with Israel, the Channel 12 report said. Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg News on Wednesday (August 6) that there was an effort to add 12 aid sites to the already existing four, operated by the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Huckabee said, "A quadrupling over two months, if possible. It’s all about funding." He added, “I think there’s still some question about areas of the north that may depend on whether the IDF can clear those areas and make it safe.” The US, along with other countries, would fund this expansion by donating around $1 billion to Israel. In addition, the plan also said that the civilian population of the strip is expected to be further pushed toward the southern Strip, while manoeuvres take place in areas where hostages are believed to be held, with efforts toward avoiding any harm to them.

Amid the chaos around Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to take over Gaza, the Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Friday (August 8) that it was ready for a comprehensive deal with Israel to release all the hostages in Gaza.&nbsp;

'WON'T BE A PICNIC': Hamas warns Netanyahu over Gaza takeover plan, says 'ready' to release all hostages

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.<h2>Trump and his love for peace prize</h2>Trump has been repeatedly endorsed for the Nobel Prize. In 2024, he was endorsed by his party's leader, Buddy Carter, for his efforts in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Pakistan also nominated him for his alleged role in establishing peace between India and Pakistan during a cross-border crisis. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been named a war criminal by the UN for his occupation in Gaza, nominated Trump for the peace prize.&nbsp;Trump himself has repeatedly expressed his keen interest in getting the recognition for which he often compared himself with former winners like former US president Barack Obama. Even on Friday (August 8), the White House again claimed "a ceasefire between India and Pakistan" among the list of US President Donald Trump's "Foreign Policy Victories."

https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1953579654784462949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1953579654784462949%7Ctwgr%5E87cacd073c65e54345f4cc7add1755c7fc7da065%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aninews.in%2Fnews%2Fworld%2Fasia%2Ftwo-things-president-trump-loves-tariffs-and-nobel-prize-former-diplomat-rakesh-sood20250808174131

<h2>Trump's 'tariff tantrum' risks years of US-India ties</h2>Representative Gregory Meeks, a Democrat and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Dems posted on the social media platform X on Friday (August 8) and said, “The US has deep strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties with India. Trump’s latest tariff tantrum risks years of careful work to build a stronger US-India partnership." Meeks added that any concerns should be addressed in a mutually respectful manner.&nbsp;

Amid the chaos due to Donald Trump tariff imposition on India, a former diplomat said that the American president loves two things most - tariffs and the Nobel Peace Prize. He hinted it was due to India not recognising Trump repeated credit claims of halting tensions with Pakistan. 

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. Trump and his love for peace prize Trump has been repeatedly endorsed for the Nobel Prize. In 2024, he was endorsed by his party's leader, Buddy Carter, for his efforts in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Pakistan also nominated him for his alleged role in establishing peace between India and Pakistan during a cross-border crisis. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been named a war criminal by the UN for his occupation in Gaza, nominated Trump for the peace prize. Trump himself has repeatedly expressed his keen interest in getting the recognition for which he often compared himself with former winners like former US president Barack Obama. Even on Friday (August 8), the White House again claimed "a ceasefire between India and Pakistan" among the list of US President Donald Trump's "Foreign Policy Victories."

Amid the chaos due to Donald Trump's tariff imposition on India, a former diplomat said that the American president loves two things most - tariffs and the Nobel Peace Prize. He hinted it was due to India not recognising Trump's repeated credit claims of halting tensions with Pakistan.&nbsp;

Trump LOVES two things most - tariff and Nobel Peace Prize. Ex-diplomat hints at why US imposed tariffs on India

Israel's plan to seize control of Gaza triggered global condemnation, with world leaders drawing attention to the humanitarian crises in the besieged&nbsp;city. Thousands of Gazans have died in Israeli assaults since October 2023, following Hamas's attack on Israeli cities,&nbsp;killing over 1200, mostly civilians.&nbsp;Reacting to Israel's plan, the UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement on Friday that the planned takeover must be immediately halted.&nbsp;"The Israeli Government’s plan for a complete military takeover of the occupied Gaza Strip must be immediately halted," the UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.&nbsp;Turkiye lambasted Israel, saying it aims to displace Palestinians by force. It also called on the global community to prevent the implementation of Israel's decision.&nbsp;United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Israel’s decision wrong and called for restraint. He said the decision to escalate the hostilities will spill more blood and will do nothing to end the conflict.&nbsp;A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told AFP that Gaza belongs to the people of Palestine, calling for Israel to “cease its dangerous actions”.&nbsp;German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his country will not approve any exports of military equipment to Israel.&nbsp;Australia said Israel's plan will be tantamount to the violation of international law. It called for a ceasefire and the return of hostages.&nbsp;The Netherlands said the Netanyahu government's&nbsp;plan to intensify Israeli operations in Gaza is a wrong move.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia also condemned Israel's move to take control of Gaza. It accused Israel of committing crimes of starvation, brutal practices, and ethnic cleansing.&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the EU’s executive branch, urged Israel to reconsider its plan to take control of Gaza.&nbsp;"The Israeli government’s decision to further extend its military operation in Gaza must be reconsidered,” she wrote on X.

Israel's plan to seize control of Gaza triggered global condemnation, with world leaders drawing attention to the humanitarian crises in the besieged city. 

Israel's plan to seize control of Gaza triggered global condemnation, with world leaders drawing attention to the humanitarian crises in the besieged city. Thousands of Gazans have died in Israeli assaults since October 2023, following Hamas's attack on Israeli cities, killing over 1200, mostly civilians. Reacting to Israel's plan, the UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement on Friday that the planned takeover must be immediately halted. "The Israeli Government’s plan for a complete military takeover of the occupied Gaza Strip must be immediately halted," the UN human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement. Turkiye lambasted Israel, saying it aims to displace Palestinians by force. It also called on the global community to prevent the implementation of Israel's decision. United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Israel’s decision wrong and called for restraint. He said the decision to escalate the hostilities will spill more blood and will do nothing to end the conflict. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told AFP that Gaza belongs to the people of Palestine, calling for Israel to “cease its dangerous actions”. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his country will not approve any exports of military equipment to Israel. Australia said Israel's plan will be tantamount to the violation of international law. It called for a ceasefire and the return of hostages. The Netherlands said the Netanyahu government's plan to intensify Israeli operations in Gaza is a wrong move. Saudi Arabia also condemned Israel's move to take control of Gaza. It accused Israel of committing crimes of starvation, brutal practices, and ethnic cleansing. Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the EU’s executive branch, urged Israel to reconsider its plan to take control of Gaza. "The Israeli government’s decision to further extend its military operation in Gaza must be reconsidered,” she wrote on X.

Israel's Gaza plan: A strong reaction came from Turkiye, which lambasted Israel, saying it aims to displace Palestinians by force.

Shocked world reacts to Israel's Gaza takeover plan: 'Wrong, immediately halt'

AI a boon or a bane? And looks like UK Member of Parliament Mark Sewards is only working on the brighter side as he has introduced an AI prototype in which the people of his constituency could interact with him which he calls 'AI Mark'. Sewards claims it’s ‘the first AI prototype of a British MP’.&nbsp;Speaking of the latest update, the MP posted on X, he wrote, “When constituent and local business owner, Jeremy Smith approached me with this idea, I was very excited to work with him. The AI revolution is happening and we must embrace it or be left behind.” The AI prototype is made in collaboration with Neural Voice.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-uk-to-seal-historic-post-brexit-trade-deal-with-keir-starmer-what-does-it-mean-for-both-countries-1753297335082">PM Modi lands in UK to seal historic post-Brexit trade deal with Keir Starmer - What does it mean for both countries?</a>&nbsp;“This prototype AI model offers my constituents an additional way to engage with their MP on local casework and policy issues. It can't ever replace any of the oher work I do and it simply gives people another option to contact me, anytime of day,” he added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Introducing the first AI prototype of a British MP🇬🇧🤖 When constituent and local business owner, Jeremy Smith, approached me with this idea, I was very excited to work with him. The AI revolution is happening and we must embrace it or be left behind. <a href="https://t.co/Em9aIKaW6K">https://t.co/Em9aIKaW6K</a>&mdash; Mark Sewards MP (@MarkJSewards) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkJSewards/status/1952752998582485495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;He encouraged residents of Leeds South West and Morley to give AI Mark a try. The MP also said it's only a prototype and will only get better. He said, “This is only a prototype, and everything request will be used to train it to make it better."

AI a boon or a bane? And looks like UK Member of Parliament Mark Sewards is only working on the brighter side as he has introduced an AI prototype in which the people of his constituency could interact with him which he calls 'AI Mark'. 

AI a boon or a bane? And looks like UK Member of Parliament Mark Sewards is only working on the brighter side as he has introduced an AI prototype in which the people of his constituency could interact with him which he calls 'AI Mark'. Sewards claims it’s ‘the first AI prototype of a British MP’. Speaking of the latest update, the MP posted on X, he wrote, “When constituent and local business owner, Jeremy Smith approached me with this idea, I was very excited to work with him. The AI revolution is happening and we must embrace it or be left behind.” The AI prototype is made in collaboration with Neural Voice. Also read: PM Modi lands in UK to seal historic post-Brexit trade deal with Keir Starmer - What does it mean for both countries? “This prototype AI model offers my constituents an additional way to engage with their MP on local casework and policy issues. It can't ever replace any of the oher work I do and it simply gives people another option to contact me, anytime of day,” he added.

AI a boon or a bane? And looks like UK Member of Parliament Mark Sewards is only working on the brighter side as he has introduced an AI prototype in which the people of his constituency could interact with him which he calls 'AI Mark'.&nbsp;

'First AI prototype of a British MP': Meet Mark Sewards, the politician using AI to interact with people

Germany's University Hospital Leipzig (UKL) is in the midst of controversy after posting a picture of the neonatal board on Instagram featuring the name of the October 7 terror attack mastermind, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. However, hospital staff have claimed that they have not noticed the name or are not aware of its popular association.The post immediately sparked a backlash. The hospital deleted the picture and issued an apology. The screenshot of the picture shows a heart drawn over the &nbsp;'i' of the Sinwar. &nbsp;&nbsp;

picture shows a heart drawn over the  'i' of the Sinwar.

In Germany, parents have leeway to name their kids as they want to. However, there are local naming laws prohibiting some of the names that could have social stigma or violent connotations. Leipzig's civil registry office has indicated that they are likely to reject the approval of the name 'Yahya Sinwar'. However, if the parents contest it, they can take it to court.&nbsp;The name Yahya is the Arabic for John the Baptist, and is very common among the Muslim community. In 2023, a total of 583 baby boys were given the name in UK. "Should it be allowed in Germany to name your child after a terrorist and mass murderer?" said a Jewish German rapper, Ben Salamo, according to the German outlet Bild.&nbsp;This is not confirmed that the parents chose this name to honour Sinwar, but it has drawn strong public reaction. The hospital claims its mistake stems from unawareness. But authorities are in a moral conundrum where freedom, social stigma co-occur.&nbsp;

German parents in Leipzig have named their newborn son Yahya Sinwar; the name's validity depends upon the approval of the registry office. The screenshot of the name on the hospital board has drawn significant criticism online.

Germany's University Hospital Leipzig (UKL) is in the midst of controversy after posting a picture of the neonatal board on Instagram featuring the name of the October 7 terror attack mastermind, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. However, hospital staff have claimed that they have not noticed the name or are not aware of its popular association. The post immediately sparked a backlash. The hospital deleted the picture and issued an apology. The screenshot of the picture shows a heart drawn over the 'i' of the Sinwar.

German parents in Leipzig have named their newborn son Yahya Sinwar; the name's validity depends upon the approval of the registry office. The screenshot of the name on the hospital board has drawn significant criticism online.

Newborn baby named after Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar: Hospital post ignites firestorm!

The Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand experienced heavy rain on Friday, days after the flash flood that killed several people. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued a rain alert for the next 2 days in the district. Additionally, IMD has forecasted heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places in the Dehradun, Udham Singh Nagar, Bageshwar, and Nainital districts of Uttarakhand for Friday.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the weather agency issued an 'orange alert' predicting heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places in Bageshwar district on the coming Sunday. The official data indicated that at least 128 people were rescued by Friday noon following the flash flood that wreaked havoc in Uttarkashi.&nbsp;With this, the total number of people rescued mounted to 566 since Tuesday, when mud triggered by torrential rains swallowed homes, hotels, and cars. Officials have also said that five people were killed in the flash floods. Additionally, 16 people, including nine Army personnel and seven civilians, are missing, the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) said, India TV reported.&nbsp;The IMD has also forecast heavy to very heavy rains in several districts of Uttarakhand for the next four days.<h3>How many have been found and are still missing?</h3>Residents of nearby villages who witnessed the disaster confirmed that the number of missing people is likely to be higher. And these numbers are of locals and labourers from Bihar and Nepal who were working at under-construction hotels. In addition, they also said that the missing persons include guests from about two dozen big hotels in Dharali when the disaster hit the area.&nbsp;The USDMA confirmed that over 800 rescue personnel from the Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and police are working in joint cooperation in rescue operations.&nbsp;

Just days after the flash flood claimed the lives of several people, the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand was hit by heavy rain again on Friday. The weather agency has forecast more rain for the next two days in Uttarkashi.

The Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand experienced heavy rain on Friday, days after the flash flood that killed several people. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued a rain alert for the next 2 days in the district. Additionally, IMD has forecasted heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places in the Dehradun, Udham Singh Nagar, Bageshwar, and Nainital districts of Uttarakhand for Friday. Meanwhile, the weather agency issued an 'orange alert' predicting heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places in Bageshwar district on the coming Sunday. The official data indicated that at least 128 people were rescued by Friday noon following the flash flood that wreaked havoc in Uttarkashi. With this, the total number of people rescued mounted to 566 since Tuesday, when mud triggered by torrential rains swallowed homes, hotels, and cars. Officials have also said that five people were killed in the flash floods. Additionally, 16 people, including nine Army personnel and seven civilians, are missing, the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) said, India TV reported. The IMD has also forecast heavy to very heavy rains in several districts of Uttarakhand for the next four days. How many have been found and are still missing? Residents of nearby villages who witnessed the disaster confirmed that the number of missing people is likely to be higher. And these numbers are of locals and labourers from Bihar and Nepal who were working at under-construction hotels. In addition, they also said that the missing persons include guests from about two dozen big hotels in Dharali when the disaster hit the area. The USDMA confirmed that over 800 rescue personnel from the Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and police are working in joint cooperation in rescue operations.

Just days after the flash flood claimed the lives of several people, the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand was hit by heavy rain again on Friday. The weather agency has forecast more rain for the next two days in Uttarkashi.

Heavy rain lashes Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi days after deadly flash flood; IMD forecasts more rain for next 2 days

US President Donald Trump's traiff on India has been opposed within America itself as the Democrats called it a step that will ruin the years of diplomatic relations between the US and India. Representative Gregory Meeks, a Democrat and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Dems posted on the social media platform X on Friday (August 8) and said, “The US has deep strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties with India. Trump’s latest tariff tantrum risks years of careful work to build a stronger US-India partnership." Meeks added that any concerns should be addressed in a mutually respectful manner.&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold a cabinet meeting on Friday (August 8) to assess the impact of the 50 per cent tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump recently. Earlier, the American president announced a 25 per cent tariff on India, citing the purchase of Russian oil by the country. But this week, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, and imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India.&nbsp;Trump's punitive tariff on India appeared to aim at bringing economic pressure on Moscow to agree to a ceasefire, as India is the second-biggest customer for its oil.<h2>Putin-Modi talks&nbsp;</h2>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a phone call on Friday, and both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen India-Russia ties, days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian oil purchases by New Delhi.&nbsp;PM Modi said in a post on X, “Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid the chaos around Donald Trump 50 per cent tariff imposed on India, the US opposition seemed to be taking India side as a Democrat said Trump tariff tantrum might ruin years of US-India ties. 

US President Donald Trump's traiff on India has been opposed within America itself as the Democrats called it a step that will ruin the years of diplomatic relations between the US and India. Representative Gregory Meeks, a Democrat and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Dems posted on the social media platform X on Friday (August 8) and said, “The US has deep strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties with India. Trump’s latest tariff tantrum risks years of careful work to build a stronger US-India partnership." Meeks added that any concerns should be addressed in a mutually respectful manner. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold a cabinet meeting on Friday (August 8) to assess the impact of the 50 per cent tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump recently. Earlier, the American president announced a 25 per cent tariff on India, citing the purchase of Russian oil by the country. But this week, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, and imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump's punitive tariff on India appeared to aim at bringing economic pressure on Moscow to agree to a ceasefire, as India is the second-biggest customer for its oil. Putin-Modi talks Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a phone call on Friday, and both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen India-Russia ties, days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian oil purchases by New Delhi. PM Modi said in a post on X, “Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.”

Amid the chaos around Donald Trump's 50 per cent tariff imposed on India, the US opposition seemed to be taking India's side as a Democrat said Trump's tariff tantrum might ruin years of US-India ties.&nbsp;

Democrat sides with India, says Trump's 'tariff tantrum' risks years of US-India ties

Tesla CEO and billionaire Elon Musk is reportedly the most disliked global figure in the US. According to a Gallup survey, the Former DOGE head was the most hated person, followed by the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to the poll, 61 per cent of randomly selected 1000 respondents view Elon Musk unfavourably, followed by Benjamin Netanyahu, who is second with 52 per cent responded unfavourably.&nbsp;Elon Musk's net favourability has decreased from -4 in January to -28 in July. Elon Musk's political views and public activity have contributed to the decrease in his public approval. In October 2024, during the Presidential campaign of Donald Trump, Musk had warned that Americans had to endure severe hardship if Donald Trump were elected as President. His time at the White House, along with his history of substance abuse, has turned him into the most polarising figure in the United States. His public fallout with the US President Donald Trump has also made him despised among his Republican fan base.Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had been widely accused of genocide in Gaza, comes next to him. His 52 per cent unfavourability is a drastic turnaround, as Americans back in 2023 had a more favourable view of Netanyahu. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has created a negative perception of the wartime leader. Moreover, views on Netanyahu hold a partisan divide, while 63 per cent of Republicans view him favourably, only 9 per cent of Democrats have a positive opinion about him. Some of Netanyahu's policies and statements, particularly regarding the war in Gaza, have faced criticism from within the US and internationally.But the same is not true for Elon Musk. The richest person in the world has seen the share price of his company plummet. Violent incidents, including vandalism and arson, were reported, at Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations. across the US and overseas.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has become the most polarising global figure in the United States, followed by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a recent survey by Gallup News.

Tesla CEO and billionaire Elon Musk is reportedly the most disliked global figure in the US. According to a Gallup survey, the Former DOGE head was the most hated person, followed by the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to the poll, 61 per cent of randomly selected 1000 respondents view Elon Musk unfavourably, followed by Benjamin Netanyahu, who is second with 52 per cent responded unfavourably. Elon Musk's net favourability has decreased from -4 in January to -28 in July. Elon Musk's political views and public activity have contributed to the decrease in his public approval. In October 2024, during the Presidential campaign of Donald Trump, Musk had warned that Americans had to endure severe hardship if Donald Trump were elected as President. His time at the White House, along with his history of substance abuse, has turned him into the most polarising figure in the United States. His public fallout with the US President Donald Trump has also made him despised among his Republican fan base. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had been widely accused of genocide in Gaza, comes next to him. His 52 per cent unfavourability is a drastic turnaround, as Americans back in 2023 had a more favourable view of Netanyahu. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has created a negative perception of the wartime leader. Moreover, views on Netanyahu hold a partisan divide, while 63 per cent of Republicans view him favourably, only 9 per cent of Democrats have a positive opinion about him. Some of Netanyahu's policies and statements, particularly regarding the war in Gaza, have faced criticism from within the US and internationally. But the same is not true for Elon Musk. The richest person in the world has seen the share price of his company plummet. Violent incidents, including vandalism and arson, were reported, at Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations. across the US and overseas.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has become the most polarising global figure in the United States, followed by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a recent survey by Gallup.

Elon Musk and Benjamin Netanyahu are the most hated global figures in America now

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a phone call on Friday, and both the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen India-Russia ties, days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian oil purchases by New Delhi.President Putin briefed the Prime Minister on the latest developments concerning Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin for his detailed assessment and once again reiterated India’s consistent position for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;PM Modi said in a post on X, “Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.”&nbsp;The two leaders also reviewed progress in the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1953804374158840158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Thursday, President Putin had received India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval at the Kremlin, marking a significant moment in the evolving strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow, and held a meeting in the presence of senior Russian officials, including Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov.Ambassador Vinay Kumar also joined the high-level discussions, which focused on regional security, defence cooperation, and preparations for the forthcoming leadership-level engagement.&nbsp;The meeting was deemed highly significant, as it was held a day after US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on India, citing continued purchase of Russian oil by Indian entities.&nbsp;The Kremlin released footage showing Doval shaking hands with Putin. Doval is visiting Moscow at a time when India is facing pressure from the West, particularly US, over its energy ties with Russia.

At a bilateral conference earlier this year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that India and Russia share “close or even coinciding views” on the emerging multipolar world order. He also emphasised that the relationship has “stood the test of time” and continues to evolve on the basis of mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared global interests.&nbsp;Earlier on Thursday, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called PM Modi and the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health and people-to-people ties.They also reiterated their commitment to take India-Brazil Strategic Partnership to new heights. The two leaders exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had also called PM Narendra Modi on Thursday, and the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a phone call on Friday, and both the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen India-Russia ties, days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian oil purchases by New Delhi. President Putin briefed the Prime Minister on the latest developments concerning Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin for his detailed assessment and once again reiterated India’s consistent position for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict. PM Modi said in a post on X, “Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.” The two leaders also reviewed progress in the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had also called PM Narendra Modi on Thursday, and the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties.

PM Modi speaks with Putin, reiterates resolve to deepen India-Russia ties amid Trump tariff row

Israel's national airline, El-Al's office, was vandalised in Paris on Thursday, August 7. The office premises had graffiti markings like 'Free Palestine' and 'El Al genocide airline'. The incident did not result in any injury or violence. According to media reports, the office was not operational at that time. El Al called the act 'deeply disturbing'.Israeli transportation minister , Miri Regev, condemned the incident, “Today it’s El Al, tomorrow it’s Air France.” Israel's Foreign Ministry labelled the vandalism an anti-Semitic attack. Earlier in August, several reports suggested that France was considering recognition of Palestinian statehood. According to Miri Regev, France's pro-Palestinian stance is fueling these attacks.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Activists splash red paint on the office of Israeli airline El Al in Paris, calling El Al a genocide airline. Israel’s ambassador to France, Joshua Zarka, called the incident an &quot;attack against an Israeli company, and against the state of Israel&quot;. <a href="https://t.co/hWHb2Xhyag">pic.twitter.com/hWHb2Xhyag</a>&mdash; Palestine Highlights (@PalHighlight) <a href="https://twitter.com/PalHighlight/status/1953436891669319725?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot publicly condemned the attack, writing on X (formerly Twitter), “Acts of hatred and anti‑Semitism have no place in our Republic.” A formal hate crime investigation has been launched to investigate the perpetrators of the crime.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Je condamne avec la plus grande fermeté les actes de vandalisme visant les locaux de la compagnie israélienne El Al la nuit dernière, à Paris. J’apporte tout mon soutien aux équipes d&#39;El Al. Les actes de haine et d&#39;antisémitisme n’ont pas leur place dans notre République.&mdash; Philippe Tabarot (@PhilippeTabarot) <a href="https://twitter.com/PhilippeTabarot/status/1953385980662059183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

These incidents are part of the growing trend of anti-Israel campaigns in France. There had been several instances of protest in France against Israel's war on Gaza by left-wing organisations and movements such as Boycott Divestment and Sanctions. There had been global and cultural protests against the Israeli war and occupation.&nbsp;These protests have been seen globally, from campus occupation in the Netherlands, to Mass demonstrations across Europe and Asia, like in Hague, Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, Rennes, Dhaka in Bangladesh, to name a notable few. There were huge demonstrations at the Tour de France, protests against Cargo shipping giants Maersk to halt military shipments to Israel. At times, these protests turned violent, like the case of El Al, or Kosher restaurant, or the violent murder of two embassy staffers in Washington.&nbsp;Israel has been engaged in a war with Gaza since the attack on October 7, 2023. This has resulted in lots of death, destruction, drawing widespread international criticism. Today, Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan for the full occupation of the Gaza Strip, which had been rebuked by its allies like the UK and the Netherlands.&nbsp;

Rising cases of anti-Israeli sentiment are being reported across Europe, in a latest incident, Israeli National airline El-Al's office was vandalised with red ink graffiti.

Israel's national airline, El-Al's office, was vandalised in Paris on Thursday, August 7. The office premises had graffiti markings like 'Free Palestine' and 'El Al genocide airline'. The incident did not result in any injury or violence. According to media reports, the office was not operational at that time. El Al called the act 'deeply disturbing'. Israeli transportation minister , Miri Regev, condemned the incident, “Today it’s El Al, tomorrow it’s Air France.” Israel's Foreign Ministry labelled the vandalism an anti-Semitic attack. Earlier in August, several reports suggested that France was considering recognition of Palestinian statehood. According to Miri Regev, France's pro-Palestinian stance is fueling these attacks.

Rising cases of anti-Israeli sentiment are being reported across Europe, in a latest incident, Israeli National airline El-Al's office was vandalised with red ink graffiti.

Paris vandalism targets El Al with 'genocide airline' graffiti amid rising Anti-Israel sentiment in Europe

In protest against Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza takeover plan, Germany has announced the suspension of arms exports to Israel. The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the decision on Friday (August 8), marking it the clearest shift yet in response to Israel’s escalating military campaign in the Gaza Strip. “Under these circumstances, the German government will, until further notice, not approve any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip,” Merz said in a government press release. The chancellor added that Netanyahu's plan to intensify the military occupation in Gaza, overnight, has made it &nbsp;“increasingly difficult” to see how stated goals like the release of hostages or the disarmament of Hamas can be achieved.&nbsp;Germany has long been a supporter of Israel's stance that it has the right to defend itself amid the war with Hamas. However, &nbsp;Merz sharply criticised the humanitarian aid situation in the strip and urged the Israeli &nbsp;government to allow “full access for aid deliveries, including for UN organisations and other non-governmental institutions.” “The Israeli government carries greater responsibility than ever for the civilian population’s supply,” Merz said.<h2>What's inside Netanyahu's 'Gaza takeover' plan?</h2>As per a report by Channel 12, in the first phase of the plan, the Netanyahu government will issue an evacuation notice to 1 million residents of Gaza City - almost 50 per cent of the entire Palestinian population. This will, as per Netanyahu, give some time for his officials to establish civilian infrastructure like hospitals and camps in the Gaza Strip for evacuees. This process is said to last for several weeks.&nbsp;In the second phase of the plan, the Israeli military will launch an offensive in the region. At that time, US President Donald Trump would give a speech in which he would announce the acceleration of humanitarian aid in coordination with Israel, the Channel 12 report said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg News on Wednesday (August 6) that there was an effort to add 12 aid sites to the already existing four, operated by the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid the chaos around Gaza takeover plan, Germany has decided to halt arms exports to Israel. The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that his country will not approve military equipment that could be used the strip. 

In protest against Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza takeover plan, Germany has announced the suspension of arms exports to Israel. The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the decision on Friday (August 8), marking it the clearest shift yet in response to Israel’s escalating military campaign in the Gaza Strip. “Under these circumstances, the German government will, until further notice, not approve any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip,” Merz said in a government press release. The chancellor added that Netanyahu's plan to intensify the military occupation in Gaza, overnight, has made it “increasingly difficult” to see how stated goals like the release of hostages or the disarmament of Hamas can be achieved. Germany has long been a supporter of Israel's stance that it has the right to defend itself amid the war with Hamas. However, Merz sharply criticised the humanitarian aid situation in the strip and urged the Israeli government to allow “full access for aid deliveries, including for UN organisations and other non-governmental institutions.” “The Israeli government carries greater responsibility than ever for the civilian population’s supply,” Merz said. What's inside Netanyahu's 'Gaza takeover' plan? As per a report by Channel 12, in the first phase of the plan, the Netanyahu government will issue an evacuation notice to 1 million residents of Gaza City - almost 50 per cent of the entire Palestinian population. This will, as per Netanyahu, give some time for his officials to establish civilian infrastructure like hospitals and camps in the Gaza Strip for evacuees. This process is said to last for several weeks. In the second phase of the plan, the Israeli military will launch an offensive in the region. At that time, US President Donald Trump would give a speech in which he would announce the acceleration of humanitarian aid in coordination with Israel, the Channel 12 report said. Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg News on Wednesday (August 6) that there was an effort to add 12 aid sites to the already existing four, operated by the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

Amid the chaos around Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza takeover plan, Germany has decided to halt arms exports to Israel. The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that his country will not approve military equipment that could be used the strip.&nbsp;

Germany halts arms export to Israel amid Netanyahu's Gaza takeover plan

Cameroon leader Paul Biya has been ruling since 1975. At the age of 92, he is the world's oldest leader, and is seeking an eighth term. He is not the only non-royal leader with continuous or near-continuous tenures. Here's the top five 

Who is ruling the most years? As world's oldest leader seeks another term at age 92 after 50 years, here's list of those longest in power

For the first time in 90 years, Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital on Friday (August 8). This move comes amid Tokyo's efforts to deepen strategic ties in the South Pacific Ocean. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury. The warships arrived from Sydney, where the Japanese military participated in the war games in August, which involved New Zealand, Australia and other countries.&nbsp;Japan's only treaty ally is the US, and it has increasingly sought to deepen bilateral military cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions. Makoto Osawa, Japan's envoy to Wellington, was quoted by news agency AFP, he said, "Our defence force are developing cooperative work, not only with New Zealand and Australia but also many Pacific Island countries."&nbsp;He added, "Our main goal is the free and open Indo-Pacific."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vs-russia-who-rules-under-the-sea-how-the-submarine-fleets-of-the-countries-compare-in-firepower-1754631320166">US vs Russia: Who rules under the sea? How do the submarine fleets of the countries compare in firepower</a>&nbsp;"On August 8, helicopter carrier JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force arrived at Wellington Port. Japan and New Zealand share a strong, long-standing relationship, as well as a commitment to global and regional security. Both countries recently took part in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia. This visit marks another step toward deeper maritime ties and lasting peace and stability in the region," the Embassy of Japan in New Zealand posted on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On August 8, helicopter carrier JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force arrived at Wellington Port. 🇯🇵🤝🇳🇿 Japan and New Zealand share a strong, long-standing relationship, as well as a commitment to global and regional security. Both countries… <a href="https://t.co/VcqBnVzmoE">pic.twitter.com/VcqBnVzmoE</a>&mdash; Embassy of Japan, New Zealand 🇳🇿 🇨🇰 🇳🇺 (@AmbassadorofJa1) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbassadorofJa1/status/1953749868381606102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The envoy's statement came after Australia's government announced that Japanese firm Mitsubishi Heavy Industries had won the bid for a contract to build Australian warships. Officials in Canberra hailed it as the biggest defence industry agreement between the countries. They also called the Japanese proposal the best and cheapest after they beat a German company in the bid.

On Friday (August 8), Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital for the first time since 1936. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury.

For the first time in 90 years, Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital on Friday (August 8). This move comes amid Tokyo's efforts to deepen strategic ties in the South Pacific Ocean. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury. The warships arrived from Sydney, where the Japanese military participated in the war games in August, which involved New Zealand, Australia and other countries. Japan's only treaty ally is the US, and it has increasingly sought to deepen bilateral military cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions. Makoto Osawa, Japan's envoy to Wellington, was quoted by news agency AFP, he said, "Our defence force are developing cooperative work, not only with New Zealand and Australia but also many Pacific Island countries." He added, "Our main goal is the free and open Indo-Pacific." Also read: US vs Russia: Who rules under the sea? How do the submarine fleets of the countries compare in firepower "On August 8, helicopter carrier JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force arrived at Wellington Port. Japan and New Zealand share a strong, long-standing relationship, as well as a commitment to global and regional security. Both countries recently took part in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia. This visit marks another step toward deeper maritime ties and lasting peace and stability in the region," the Embassy of Japan in New Zealand posted on X.

On Friday (August 8), Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital for the first time since 1936. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury.

First time in 90 years, Japanese warships dock in New Zealand

At least 10 people are killed and 33 are missing as flash floods hit China's Gansu province. State broadcaster CCTV reported that continuous heavy rain since August 7 triggered flash floods. Chinese President Xi Jinping directed the local authorities to search for those missing. He also blamed "frequent occurrence of extreme weather" for the tragedy and asked all regions to "resolutely overcome complacency" and strengthen efforts to identify risks.&nbsp;Visuals show inundated areas in China's Gansu and Zhengzhou regions. Rescuers were seen guiding people through rushing grey water in a village.&nbsp;Roads were covered in silt and large stones. Natural disasters are common in China, especially during the summer when many regions are hit by extreme rain. At the same time, many areas bake in the heat.&nbsp;Last month, heavy rains in China's Beijing killed 44 people. The heavy rains ravaged roads and houses in northern China.&nbsp;Over 80,000 people had been evacuated to safer grounds. The power supply and communications in about 130 villages had been cut off because of the rains and floods.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Severe flooding hits Gansu and Zhengzhou regions of China. Floodwaters rise and transport disrupted.<a href="https://twitter.com/SehgalRahesha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SehgalRahesha</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnikalra6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajnikalra6</a> explain. <a href="https://t.co/NQLao3gqxH">pic.twitter.com/NQLao3gqxH</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1953751044493902245?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;China, one of the fastest-growing economies, is the world's biggest emitter of greenhouse gases.&nbsp;These gases cause climate change and make extreme weather more frequent. Many other parts of the world are also facing similar weather conditions.&nbsp;China aims to make its economy carbon neutral by 2060.

At least 10 people are killed and 33 are missing as flash floods hit China's Gansu province. State broadcaster CCTV reported that continuous heavy rain since August 7 triggered flash floods. 

At least 10 people are killed and 33 are missing as flash floods hit China's Gansu province. State broadcaster CCTV reported that continuous heavy rain since August 7 triggered flash floods. Chinese President Xi Jinping directed the local authorities to search for those missing. He also blamed "frequent occurrence of extreme weather" for the tragedy and asked all regions to "resolutely overcome complacency" and strengthen efforts to identify risks. Visuals show inundated areas in China's Gansu and Zhengzhou regions. Rescuers were seen guiding people through rushing grey water in a village. Roads were covered in silt and large stones. Natural disasters are common in China, especially during the summer when many regions are hit by extreme rain. At the same time, many areas bake in the heat. Last month, heavy rains in China's Beijing killed 44 people. The heavy rains ravaged roads and houses in northern China. Over 80,000 people had been evacuated to safer grounds. The power supply and communications in about 130 villages had been cut off because of the rains and floods.

44 people were killed in China last month due to rain-linked incidents in the Beijing region.

Watch: Shocking flood visuals from China emerge, Xi Jinping blames 'frequent extreme weather'; 10 killed

The world's costliest gem used in jewellery is considered to be the Pink Diamond. Here is the list of the world's top five costliest gems.

Only billioniare's can afford this: Shocking price of world's costliest gems

As the Israeli security cabinet approved a plan to occupy Gaza Strip, several journalists and aid workers have captured the destruction of the Palestinian enclave from the air and shared the visuals on social media this week. After two years of war, the destruction makes one wonder: What's left there to occupy?<h2>What's happening in Gaza City?</h2>The relentless war since October 2023 has forced nearly all 2 million Gazans into repeated displacement and devastated the region’s landscape. Even as aid trickles in very slowly, a starvation crisis unfolded, with many children dying of hunger. The population is on the brink of famine, with the United Nations estimating that more than 60 per cent of buildings and vital infrastructure have been destroyed. The military takeover of Gaza City could intensify global concerns over civilian protection and aid access.<h2>A land turned into dust: What the aerial visuals of Gaza reveal</h2>Sharing a purported video of Gaza from the air, New York city's Democratic Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani wrote on X: “Israel doesn’t want the world to see what Gaza looks like from above... From the sky, it’s all there: entire neighborhoods flattened, endless tent cities, a land turned to dust.”Ben Trew, The Independent newspaper’s chief international correspondent, flew in an aid plane over Gaza. Sharing what she saw, Trew posted on X: “This is Gaza from the sky: ashen destruction and a maze of makeshift tents stretching to the horizon.” "I spent two days filming &amp; photographing Gaza from a Jordanian plane. 22 months of Israel’s bombardment, blockade &amp; war with Hamas have left a blasted hellscape. Unimaginable," she wrote.Heidi Levine, an acclaimed photojournalist, shared some pictures that demonstrated how much devastation was caused by Israeli bombing. Reacting to the photo, &nbsp;Jeff Shawn, a X user wrote: "This is as breath-taking as it is heart-breaking...I am in awe. And in tears."Adwait, another X user wrote: "Israel doesn’t want you to see this picture. They told countries air-dropping aid not to take images. This is what Israel has done to Gaza."Below, you can see the aerial videos of Gaza City taken from aircraft during airdrop operations this week.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-s-netanyahu-reportedly-plans-full-occupation-of-gaza-1754570676783/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-s-netanyahu-reportedly-plans-full-occupation-of-gaza-1754570676783/embed</a><h2>Gaza braces for Israeli occupation</h2>On Thursday (Aug 7), the Israeli security cabinet approved Prime Minister Bejnamin Netanyahu’s plan for the militarily occupation of Gaza City. The plan is for the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to take control of Gaza City while giving limited humanitarian aid outside combat zones.The plan aims five things: Disarmament of Hamas, return of all Israeli hostages it had taken on 7 October 2023, full demilitarisation of Gaza, Israeli control over the territory, and the establishment of a new civilian government to replace Hamas rule.The plan, awaiting final approval from Israel’s full cabinet, will be a major escalation in Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, and cause further mass displacement of already starving and exhausted civilian population.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🌐 Gaza seen from an airplane ...unbelievable 😳 <a href="https://t.co/0NQFRpA1H1">pic.twitter.com/0NQFRpA1H1</a>— Erik Warsaw (@WarsawErik) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarsawErik/status/1953308866210382024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This is Gaza from the sky: ashen destruction and a maze of makeshift tents stretching to the horizon. I spent two days filming & photographing Gaza from a Jordanian plane. 22 months of Israel’s bombardment, blockade & war with Hamas have left a blasted hellscape. Unimaginable. <a href="https://t.co/eJIndgO9qD">pic.twitter.com/eJIndgO9qD</a>— Bel Trew (@Beltrew) <a href="https://twitter.com/Beltrew/status/1953130838297645497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Videos captured by a French news broadcaster showed a rare glimpse of a levelled Gaza from the air.<a href="https://t.co/VfDoFfeyxX">https://t.co/VfDoFfeyxX</a> <a href="https://t.co/dy3YRZWwJp">pic.twitter.com/dy3YRZWwJp</a>— Sky News (@SkyNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1952402353182626259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Israel doesn’t want the world to see what Gaza looks like from above — but journalist Dalal Mawad from Al Araby TV got the footage. From the sky, it’s all there: entire neighborhoods flattened, endless tent cities, a land turned to dust. <a href="https://t.co/1A8xlssJgn">pic.twitter.com/1A8xlssJgn</a>— Zohran Mamdani (@zohranmamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/zohranmamdani/status/1952431667416584450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sharing a purported video of Gaza from the air, New York city's Democratic Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani wrote on X: “From the sky, it’s all there: entire neighborhoods flattened, endless tent cities, a land turned to dust.”

As the Israeli security cabinet approved a plan to occupy Gaza Strip, several journalists and aid workers have captured the destruction of the Palestinian enclave from the air and shared the visuals on social media this week. After two years of war, the destruction makes one wonder: What's left there to occupy? What's happening in Gaza City? The relentless war since October 2023 has forced nearly all 2 million Gazans into repeated displacement and devastated the region’s landscape. Even as aid trickles in very slowly, a starvation crisis unfolded, with many children dying of hunger. The population is on the brink of famine, with the United Nations estimating that more than 60 per cent of buildings and vital infrastructure have been destroyed. The military takeover of Gaza City could intensify global concerns over civilian protection and aid access. A land turned into dust: What the aerial visuals of Gaza reveal Sharing a purported video of Gaza from the air, New York city's Democratic Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani wrote on X: “Israel doesn’t want the world to see what Gaza looks like from above... From the sky, it’s all there: entire neighborhoods flattened, endless tent cities, a land turned to dust.” Ben Trew, The Independent newspaper’s chief international correspondent, flew in an aid plane over Gaza. Sharing what she saw, Trew posted on X: “This is Gaza from the sky: ashen destruction and a maze of makeshift tents stretching to the horizon.” "I spent two days filming & photographing Gaza from a Jordanian plane. 22 months of Israel’s bombardment, blockade & war with Hamas have left a blasted hellscape. Unimaginable," she wrote. Heidi Levine, an acclaimed photojournalist, shared some pictures that demonstrated how much devastation was caused by Israeli bombing. Reacting to the photo, Jeff Shawn, a X user wrote: "This is as breath-taking as it is heart-breaking...I am in awe. And in tears." Adwait, another X user wrote: "Israel doesn’t want you to see this picture. They told countries air-dropping aid not to take images. This is what Israel has done to Gaza." Below, you can see the aerial videos of Gaza City taken from aircraft during airdrop operations this week. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-gaza-war-israel-s-netanyahu-reportedly-plans-full-occupation-of-gaza-1754570676783/embed Gaza braces for Israeli occupation On Thursday (Aug 7), the Israeli security cabinet approved Prime Minister Bejnamin Netanyahu’s plan for the militarily occupation of Gaza City. The plan is for the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to take control of Gaza City while giving limited humanitarian aid outside combat zones. The plan aims five things: Disarmament of Hamas, return of all Israeli hostages it had taken on 7 October 2023, full demilitarisation of Gaza, Israeli control over the territory, and the establishment of a new civilian government to replace Hamas rule. The plan, awaiting final approval from Israel’s full cabinet, will be a major escalation in Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, and cause further mass displacement of already starving and exhausted civilian population.

Sharing a purported video of Gaza from the air, New York city's Democratic Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani wrote on X: “From the sky, it’s all there: entire neighborhoods flattened, endless tent cities, a land turned to dust.”

Breathtaking, heartbreaking: Gaza seen from air is all rubble and graves. What's left to occupy? WATCH

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently had a phone conversation where they discussed the situation of humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip. A report came on Thursday (August 7) claiming that the American president shouted at Netanyahu for his stance on the aid to the strip. NBC News cited senior US officials saying that during the call, which was made on July 28, as claimed by Netanyahu, the Israeli PM denied that there was any starvation in Gaza. This was despite multiple reports of children dying in the strip due to hunger. After this claim, Trump publicly responded the next day that he was “not particularly convinced” by Netanyahu’s assurance, saying there was “real starvation” in the Strip and adding: “You can’t fake that.”&nbsp;Following this, the Israeli PM requested a phone call with Trump, where he told the American president that the reports of starvation in Gaza had been “fabricated” by Hamas and that hunger was not widespread in the enclave. In response, Trump began yelling at his ally, saying that his aides had &nbsp;shown him proof that children in Gaza were starving and that he didn’t want to hear it dismissed as “fake.” The Thursday report called the conversation a direct, mostly one-way conversation about the status of humanitarian aid,” where Trump was doing most of the talking." The senior officials cited in the report said that Washington “not only feels like the situation is dire, but they own it because of GHFa reference to the US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.<h2>‘Complete fake news’&nbsp;</h2>Israel has the report of Trump shouting at the PM. Moreover, Netanyahu's cabinet claimed that the government recently increased the flow of supplies, after having barred aid for 11 weeks between March and May. When NBC News approached the US and Israel for comments, it did not receive any response. But on Friday (August 8), Netanyahu’s office dismissed the report as “fake news.”&nbsp;“The claim that there was supposedly a ‘shouting match’ between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump is complete fake news,” the Prime Minister’s Office wrote in a brief statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A recent report claimed that US President Donald Trump yelled at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he claimed that there was no starvation in Gaza, despite multiple visuals and reports of dying children in the region. 

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently had a phone conversation where they discussed the situation of humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip. A report came on Thursday (August 7) claiming that the American president shouted at Netanyahu for his stance on the aid to the strip. NBC News cited senior US officials saying that during the call, which was made on July 28, as claimed by Netanyahu, the Israeli PM denied that there was any starvation in Gaza. This was despite multiple reports of children dying in the strip due to hunger. After this claim, Trump publicly responded the next day that he was “not particularly convinced” by Netanyahu’s assurance, saying there was “real starvation” in the Strip and adding: “You can’t fake that.” Following this, the Israeli PM requested a phone call with Trump, where he told the American president that the reports of starvation in Gaza had been “fabricated” by Hamas and that hunger was not widespread in the enclave. In response, Trump began yelling at his ally, saying that his aides had shown him proof that children in Gaza were starving and that he didn’t want to hear it dismissed as “fake.” The Thursday report called the conversation a direct, mostly one-way conversation about the status of humanitarian aid,” where Trump was doing most of the talking." The senior officials cited in the report said that Washington “not only feels like the situation is dire, but they own it because of GHFa reference to the US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. ‘Complete fake news’ Israel has the report of Trump shouting at the PM. Moreover, Netanyahu's cabinet claimed that the government recently increased the flow of supplies, after having barred aid for 11 weeks between March and May. When NBC News approached the US and Israel for comments, it did not receive any response. But on Friday (August 8), Netanyahu’s office dismissed the report as “fake news.” “The claim that there was supposedly a ‘shouting match’ between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump is complete fake news,” the Prime Minister’s Office wrote in a brief statement.

A recent report claimed that US President Donald Trump yelled at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he claimed that there was no starvation in Gaza, despite multiple visuals and reports of dying children in the region.&nbsp;

Trump YELLED at Netanyahu over Gaza starvation on call? Here's what we know

The Coldplay concert in Boston, Massachusetts will remain etched in people's mind for days to come. Not particularly for the performance of the British rock band but for the 'kiss scam' involving former Astronomer CEO, Andy Byron with his HR head, Kristin Cabot. Now, a new controversy seems to surround Byron. According to media reports, the former Astronomer CEO spent big money on OnlyFans, the adult content subscription platform.&nbsp;Byron reportedly spent over $250,000 on subscriptions, custom videos, and steamy video calls with multiple OnlyFans creators.&nbsp;A amount of $40,000 was spent by Byron on intimate video calls alone with a 23-year-old OnlyFans creator named Sophie Rain, whose real name is Izabella Blair, reported The Blast. Blair is a popular content creator associated with influencer collective Bop House.&nbsp;Private messages shared by Byron's wife Megan Kerrigan reveals, he used a secret Instagram account to arrange explicit video calls with Sophie Rain. The leaked messages Byron's wife Megan has drawn support as well as criticism online, sparking a debate on the issue.&nbsp;“All good. Most guys I talk to are married," Byron allegedly said in a message. “Okay, call me in 5 mins (emoji with a wink)," Rain responded.&nbsp;“As a Christian, I don’t condone this type of behaviour. I’m here for his wife if she needs a friend during this time. I would love to talk to her and reassure her that this guy is just a bump in the road," Rain told The Blast.&nbsp;A Brazilian model Camilla Araujo, 29, has claimed Byron did the same with other models on the platform.&nbsp;“I saw the receipts. We’re talking a quarter million in sub fees, custom content and video calls! Not just with Sophie, with multiple girls," said Araujo.&nbsp;What was the 'kiss cam scandal'&nbsp;Byron and Cabot were caught on camera sharing an intimate moment. The video set the internet on fire, and everyone has been talking about the incident. The video showed the duo enjoying the concert in an intimate pose when the camera zoomed in on them, and they panicked and hid. That's when everyone came to know that both were having an extramarital affair.&nbsp;After the incident Byron's wife Megan Kerrigan reportedly removed Byron as her last name on her Facebook handle before deactivating the account. &nbsp;

Private messages shared by Byrons wife Megan Kerrigan reveals, he used a secret Instagram account to arrange explicit video calls with Sophie Rain.

The Coldplay concert in Boston, Massachusetts will remain etched in people's mind for days to come. Not particularly for the performance of the British rock band but for the 'kiss scam' involving former Astronomer CEO, Andy Byron with his HR head, Kristin Cabot. Now, a new controversy seems to surround Byron. According to media reports, the former Astronomer CEO spent big money on OnlyFans, the adult content subscription platform. Byron reportedly spent over $250,000 on subscriptions, custom videos, and steamy video calls with multiple OnlyFans creators. A amount of $40,000 was spent by Byron on intimate video calls alone with a 23-year-old OnlyFans creator named Sophie Rain, whose real name is Izabella Blair, reported The Blast. Blair is a popular content creator associated with influencer collective Bop House. Private messages shared by Byron's wife Megan Kerrigan reveals, he used a secret Instagram account to arrange explicit video calls with Sophie Rain. The leaked messages Byron's wife Megan has drawn support as well as criticism online, sparking a debate on the issue. “All good. Most guys I talk to are married," Byron allegedly said in a message. “Okay, call me in 5 mins (emoji with a wink)," Rain responded. “As a Christian, I don’t condone this type of behaviour. I’m here for his wife if she needs a friend during this time. I would love to talk to her and reassure her that this guy is just a bump in the road," Rain told The Blast. A Brazilian model Camilla Araujo, 29, has claimed Byron did the same with other models on the platform. “I saw the receipts. We’re talking a quarter million in sub fees, custom content and video calls! Not just with Sophie, with multiple girls," said Araujo. What was the 'kiss cam scandal' Byron and Cabot were caught on camera sharing an intimate moment. The video set the internet on fire, and everyone has been talking about the incident. The video showed the duo enjoying the concert in an intimate pose when the camera zoomed in on them, and they panicked and hid. That's when everyone came to know that both were having an extramarital affair. After the incident Byron's wife Megan Kerrigan reportedly removed Byron as her last name on her Facebook handle before deactivating the account.

Private messages shared by Byron's wife Megan Kerrigan reveals, he used a secret Instagram account to arrange explicit video calls with Sophie Rain.

It doesn't end: Kiss-cam scandal's CEO Andy Byron spent millions on steamy video calls with Onlyfans model

Ukraine’s invasion by Russia could be ‘freezing’ soon, said Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk after talking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday morning as US President Donald Trump’s deadline for sanctions on Moscow ends. PM Tusk told reporters, “There are certain signals, I also have an intuition—that perhaps a freezing of the conflict—I don’t want to say the end of the war, but a freezing of the conflict—could happen sooner rather than later.” He added, “There is hope for this. Today is the deadline for the ultimatum. President Zelensky is very cautious, but still optimistic.”&nbsp;“The Ukrainian side is very keen for Europe, including Poland, to take part in shaping this future ceasefire and, later, peace. We are also very keen on this, so that peace can prevail in our region, because that would also have a very positive impact on our security,” PM Tusk added.Poland and Russia have a long history of conflict and mistrust, and their ties deteriorated after Ukraine’s invasion War.&nbsp;<h2>‘Finland hopes Trump will move with sanctions on Russia’: Foreign Minister</h2>The Finnish foreign minister, Elina Valtonen, said on Friday that she hoped Trump will move ahead with sanctions on Russia.Speaking to Reuters, she said, “I certainly hope that President Trump will move forward with those sanctions. What we do see – and suspect now as well – is that the reason that Russia has again shown some willingness to talk, is that the increased arms deliveries [to Ukraine] are definitely piling up the pressure on Russia to find a way out of the war.”Valtonen also argued that “the only strategy to end the war in Ukraine is to keep aiding Ukraine”.Trump’s original deadline for Russia to move on ending its invasion of Ukraine ends Friday.Asked Thursday night, if he was ready to go ahead with his threats of sanctions and secondary tariffs, Trump told reporters, “It’s going to be up to him. We’re going to see what he has to say.”&nbsp;He added that he was “very disappointed” in Putin, but said he would be ready to meet the Russian leader, regardless of whether he meets with Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Putin-Trump meeting may take place in an Arab country’</h2>&nbsp;A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump may be held in an Arab country, a source told TASS news agency.“The opportunity [of holding a Putin-Trump meeting] in an Arab country has been discussed,” the source said.At a meeting with the president of the UAE, Putin said the Arab nation would be an “entirely suitable” venue for the meeting but stopped short of confirming it would be the host.&nbsp;Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed Putin and Trump would discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine. The venue for the meeting had been decided and was due to be announced later, he added.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could meet in an Arab country, as a source told TASS news agency that the possibility of holding a Putin-Trump meeting has been discussed. At a meeting with the president of the UAE, Putin said the Arab nation could be a venue.

Ukraine’s invasion by Russia could be ‘freezing’ soon, said Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk after talking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday morning as US President Donald Trump’s deadline for sanctions on Moscow ends. PM Tusk told reporters, “There are certain signals, I also have an intuition—that perhaps a freezing of the conflict—I don’t want to say the end of the war, but a freezing of the conflict—could happen sooner rather than later.” He added, “There is hope for this. Today is the deadline for the ultimatum. President Zelensky is very cautious, but still optimistic.” “The Ukrainian side is very keen for Europe, including Poland, to take part in shaping this future ceasefire and, later, peace. We are also very keen on this, so that peace can prevail in our region, because that would also have a very positive impact on our security,” PM Tusk added. Poland and Russia have a long history of conflict and mistrust, and their ties deteriorated after Ukraine’s invasion War. ‘Finland hopes Trump will move with sanctions on Russia’: Foreign Minister The Finnish foreign minister, Elina Valtonen, said on Friday that she hoped Trump will move ahead with sanctions on Russia. Speaking to Reuters, she said, “I certainly hope that President Trump will move forward with those sanctions. What we do see – and suspect now as well – is that the reason that Russia has again shown some willingness to talk, is that the increased arms deliveries [to Ukraine] are definitely piling up the pressure on Russia to find a way out of the war.” Valtonen also argued that “the only strategy to end the war in Ukraine is to keep aiding Ukraine”. Trump’s original deadline for Russia to move on ending its invasion of Ukraine ends Friday. Asked Thursday night, if he was ready to go ahead with his threats of sanctions and secondary tariffs, Trump told reporters, “It’s going to be up to him. We’re going to see what he has to say.” He added that he was “very disappointed” in Putin, but said he would be ready to meet the Russian leader, regardless of whether he meets with Zelensky. ‘Putin-Trump meeting may take place in an Arab country’ A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump may be held in an Arab country, a source told TASS news agency. “The opportunity [of holding a Putin-Trump meeting] in an Arab country has been discussed,” the source said. At a meeting with the president of the UAE, Putin said the Arab nation would be an “entirely suitable” venue for the meeting but stopped short of confirming it would be the host. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed Putin and Trump would discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine. The venue for the meeting had been decided and was due to be announced later, he added.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could meet in an Arab country, as a source told TASS news agency that the possibility of holding a Putin-Trump meeting has been discussed. At a meeting with the president of the UAE, Putin said the Arab nation could be a venue.

Russian invasion of Ukraine could be ‘frozen’ soon, says Poland’s PM Tusk as Trump’s deadline for Moscow ends

The mayor of a northern Mexico border city said Thursday that US authorities had revoked his visa, the latest Mexican official to lose the privilege. Juan Francisco Gim, the mayor of Nogales, which borders the US state of Arizona, said in a video posted on X that "the United States government has taken a measure regarding my immigration status, which I respect."&nbsp;In May last year, Marina del Pilar Avila, the governor of the northwestern Mexican state of Baja California, which also borders the United States, said US authorities had canceled her visa.&nbsp;Both politicians are members of the ruling Morena party.&nbsp;Under US law, foreign visa records are confidential, and immigration authorities declined to provide details.&nbsp;Gim did not specify the reason behind the visa revocation, but stated it was part of "an administrative process" and that US authorities had not accused him of "anything improper at all."&nbsp;"I continue to work normally... I even participate in binational meetings on security issues," the Nogales mayor said in the video.&nbsp;Last month, the Nogales mayor praised the Donald Trump administration's immigration crackdown as "cleaning house" in an interview on Fox News.&nbsp;In recent months, popular Mexican musicians including Grupo Firme, Julion Alvarez and Lorenzo de Monteclaro had to cancel or postpone performances in the United States due to visa issues.&nbsp;The visas of Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco were revoked last April for displaying images of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, alias "El Mencho", leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during a concert.&nbsp;Washington has designated the group as a terrorist organization.&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.

Under US law, foreign visa records are confidential, and immigration authorities declined to provide details.

Under US law, foreign visa records are confidential, and immigration authorities declined to provide details.

US authorities revoke visa of Mexican mayor of bordering state

United States President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed to meet on Ukraine war next week. Putin's special envoy Kirill A Dmitriev confirmed the news about the meeting between both the leaders. So, has the Trump tariff on India got to do something with the meeting? Trump's social media post hints towards that.&nbsp;Taking to Truth Social Trump wrote, "We put a 50 per cent tariff on India".&nbsp;He then goes on to say, "I don't know if that had anything to do with it, but we've had very productive talks today (with Russia),"&nbsp;The news of Trump-Putin meet on Ukraine war came hours after additional 25% tariff was imposed on India by the US President as punishment for its purchases of Russian energy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vs-modi-tariff-war-those-touting-india-russia-china-alliance-hold-your-horses-and-read-this-it-s-not-a-good-idea-ric-alliance-tariff-war-1754631308849">Those touting India, Russia, China alliance, HOLD YOUR HORSES and read this. It's not...</a>&nbsp;In an earlier post on Truth Social Trump accused India of selling products made form Russian oil to other countries at a higher price.&nbsp;"India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits. They don't care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine," Trump wrote.&nbsp;Replying to a question whether the tariff imposed on India would end if Russia and Ukraine agreed to halt the war, Trump said, "We'll determine that later, but right now, they're paying a 50 per cent tariff."&nbsp;Trump-Putin Meet on Ukraine War&nbsp;Putin's three-hour-long meeting with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow also helped both the countries agree on having talks. However, there is still no clarity on Volodymyr Zelenskyy being part of the meet as the Russian president refused to meet Ukraine’s leader, a potential condition for the US-Russia talks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-s-proposal-to-take-over-gaza-city-gets-final-cabinet-approval-what-s-next-for-israel-hamas-war-1754622829132">Netanyahu’s proposal to take over Gaza City gets final cabinet approval: What’s next in Israel-Hamas war?</a>&nbsp;On Thursday, conflicting statements from Washington and Moscow suggested deep confusion over the planned summit. While the Kremlin claimed talks were progressing for a bilateral Trump-Putin meeting next week, Putin dismissed the idea of a meeting with Zelensky. “I have nothing against it in general,” Putin said, “but certain conditions must be created for this… we are still far from creating such conditions.”&nbsp;UAE Likely Venue For Meet?&nbsp;However, it has been confirmed that the two leaders (Trump and Putin) are meeting and the venue is being finalised. According to reports, Putin hinted that the United Arab Emirates, where he met Mohamed bin Zayed this week, could host the summit. “We have many friends… one of them is the president of the UAE,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The news of Trump-Putin meet on Ukraine war came hours after addition 25% tariff was slapped on India by the US President as punitive measure for purchasing Russian oil.

United States President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed to meet on Ukraine war next week. Putin's special envoy Kirill A Dmitriev confirmed the news about the meeting between both the leaders. So, has the Trump tariff on India got to do something with the meeting? Trump's social media post hints towards that. Taking to Truth Social Trump wrote, "We put a 50 per cent tariff on India". He then goes on to say, "I don't know if that had anything to do with it, but we've had very productive talks today (with Russia)," The news of Trump-Putin meet on Ukraine war came hours after additional 25% tariff was imposed on India by the US President as punishment for its purchases of Russian energy. Also Read: Those touting India, Russia, China alliance, HOLD YOUR HORSES and read this. It's not... In an earlier post on Truth Social Trump accused India of selling products made form Russian oil to other countries at a higher price. "India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits. They don't care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine," Trump wrote. Replying to a question whether the tariff imposed on India would end if Russia and Ukraine agreed to halt the war, Trump said, "We'll determine that later, but right now, they're paying a 50 per cent tariff." Trump-Putin Meet on Ukraine War Putin's three-hour-long meeting with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow also helped both the countries agree on having talks. However, there is still no clarity on Volodymyr Zelenskyy being part of the meet as the Russian president refused to meet Ukraine’s leader, a potential condition for the US-Russia talks. Also Read: Netanyahu’s proposal to take over Gaza City gets final cabinet approval: What’s next in Israel-Hamas war? On Thursday, conflicting statements from Washington and Moscow suggested deep confusion over the planned summit. While the Kremlin claimed talks were progressing for a bilateral Trump-Putin meeting next week, Putin dismissed the idea of a meeting with Zelensky. “I have nothing against it in general,” Putin said, “but certain conditions must be created for this… we are still far from creating such conditions.” UAE Likely Venue For Meet? However, it has been confirmed that the two leaders (Trump and Putin) are meeting and the venue is being finalised. According to reports, Putin hinted that the United Arab Emirates, where he met Mohamed bin Zayed this week, could host the summit. “We have many friends… one of them is the president of the UAE,” he said.

The news of Trump-Putin meet on Ukraine war came hours after addition 25% tariff was slapped on India by the US President as punitive measure for purchasing Russian oil.

Did Trump tariff heat on India lead Putin to direct talks for ending Ukraine war?

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Did Trump tariff on India lead Putin to direct talks for ending Ukraine war?