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China started the controversial hydroelectric dam over the Yarlung Tsangpo River, also known as the downstream of the Brahmaputra in Tibet’s Nyingchi prefecture, just a few km north of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is being developed by a newly state-backed entity called China Yajiang Group. The $167.8 billion project is expected to generate 300 billion kWh of electricity annually. The location and timing should have rung alarms at New Delhi.<h2>Why does this dam worry India and Bangladesh?</h2>The Brahmaputra is not just any river; it's a lifeline for millions in India's northeast region. The massive new dam is not the first dam to be built over the Brahmaputra. China has already built several smaller ones, and these dams “should be considered as one of the major flashpoints between India and China,” said B Deepak, a professor at JNU, Delhi.Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma stated in June that the Brahmaputra is a river that expands as it flows through India, due to the country's geography and topography. China contributes only 30-35 per cent of the water in the Brahmaputra. He was responding to Pakistan's threat of a hypothetical scenario, “What if China stops the water of Brahmaputra”, calling it another baseless "scare tactic".Experts in India fear that Beijing’s unilateral control over the river’s upper reaches could give it the ability to manipulate water flow, especially during the monsoon or periods of heightened geopolitical tension. Environmentalists called it a ticking time bomb. The dam, being situated in a seismic zone, can trigger massive floods and landslides, not only in Tibet but also in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and even in Bangladesh. On January 7, a 7.1-scale earthquake killed at least 126 people. The pattern of earthquakes continues in Tibet, and this should also concern India. Following the earthquake, at least five out of the 14 existing dams showed cracks.The Indian government had previously conveyed its objections during bilateral talks in January, demanding transparency, data sharing, and environmental assessment. However, with China breaking ground on the project, New Delhi’s alarm bells are ringing louder. Throughout Beijing, the crucial turning point of the river is called the ‘Great Bend', from where they say the “river goes rogue”.&nbsp;India and China do not have a water sharing agreement; it has a hydrological data (water level, rainfall) sharing agreement, which China have previously suspended. The Memorandum of Understanding expired in June 2023, since it is not a treaty, so it is non-binding.Beijing maintains that the dam will not adversely affect downstream countries, claiming its intent is clean energy generation and regional development. However, the dam is not just a technical tool for power generation; it has significant implications. As Himalayan glaciers recede, whoever holds control over the hardwater source will have a massive advantage in the diplomatic talks. The threat from Pakistan about China's influence over the Brahmaputra is not completely unfounded. Its location also makes this dam one of the most difficult and dangerous engineering feats in the world, keeping northeastern India in a chokehold.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

China officially began construction of the world’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) in Tibet on July 19, 2025. The colossal project was launched under the newly formed ‘China Yajiang Group Co’. What does it mean for India? 

China started the controversial hydroelectric dam over the Yarlung Tsangpo River, also known as the downstream of the Brahmaputra in Tibet’s Nyingchi prefecture, just a few km north of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is being developed by a newly state-backed entity called China Yajiang Group. The $167.8 billion project is expected to generate 300 billion kWh of electricity annually. The location and timing should have rung alarms at New Delhi. Why does this dam worry India and Bangladesh? The Brahmaputra is not just any river; it's a lifeline for millions in India's northeast region. The massive new dam is not the first dam to be built over the Brahmaputra. China has already built several smaller ones, and these dams “should be considered as one of the major flashpoints between India and China,” said B Deepak, a professor at JNU, Delhi. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma stated in June that the Brahmaputra is a river that expands as it flows through India, due to the country's geography and topography. China contributes only 30-35 per cent of the water in the Brahmaputra. He was responding to Pakistan's threat of a hypothetical scenario, “What if China stops the water of Brahmaputra”, calling it another baseless "scare tactic". Experts in India fear that Beijing’s unilateral control over the river’s upper reaches could give it the ability to manipulate water flow, especially during the monsoon or periods of heightened geopolitical tension. Environmentalists called it a ticking time bomb. The dam, being situated in a seismic zone, can trigger massive floods and landslides, not only in Tibet but also in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and even in Bangladesh. On January 7, a 7.1-scale earthquake killed at least 126 people. The pattern of earthquakes continues in Tibet, and this should also concern India. Following the earthquake, at least five out of the 14 existing dams showed cracks. The Indian government had previously conveyed its objections during bilateral talks in January, demanding transparency, data sharing, and environmental assessment. However, with China breaking ground on the project, New Delhi’s alarm bells are ringing louder. Throughout Beijing, the crucial turning point of the river is called the ‘Great Bend', from where they say the “river goes rogue”. India and China do not have a water sharing agreement; it has a hydrological data (water level, rainfall) sharing agreement, which China have previously suspended. The Memorandum of Understanding expired in June 2023, since it is not a treaty, so it is non-binding. Beijing maintains that the dam will not adversely affect downstream countries, claiming its intent is clean energy generation and regional development. However, the dam is not just a technical tool for power generation; it has significant implications. As Himalayan glaciers recede, whoever holds control over the hardwater source will have a massive advantage in the diplomatic talks. The threat from Pakistan about China's influence over the Brahmaputra is not completely unfounded. Its location also makes this dam one of the most difficult and dangerous engineering feats in the world, keeping northeastern India in a chokehold.

China officially began construction of the world’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) in Tibet on July 19, 2025. The colossal project was launched under the newly formed ‘China Yajiang Group Co’. What does it mean for India?&nbsp;

China begins world's largest dam on Brahmaputra: A ticking water bomb for India?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (July 19) that Kyiv has proposed a new round of peace talks with Russia next week, after negotiations came to a halt in early June. In his evening address, Zelensky said, “Security Council Secretary Umerov… reported that he had proposed the next meeting with the Russian side for next week. The momentum of the negotiations must be stepped up.” He also restated his willingness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin directly, “A meeting at the leadership level is needed to truly ensure peace–lasting peace.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-300-strike-drones-30-missiles-russia-launches-massive-attack-on-ukraine-despite-trump-s-ultimatum-and-eu-sanctions-1752947748781">'300 strike drones, 30 missiles': Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine, despite Trump's ULTIMATUM and EU sanctions</a><h2>What happened at the last round of talks?</h2>The last two rounds of negotiations, held in Istanbul, did not lead to any breakthroughs. Instead of reaching a ceasefire, both sides agreed to carry out prisoner exchanges and return the bodies of fallen soldiers. Last month, Russia presented a list of demands, which included Ukraine giving up more territory and rejecting all Western military aid. Kyiv rejected the proposals outright, saying they were unacceptable and raised doubts about the purpose of further talks.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-get-patriots-sooner-us-skips-switzerland-sends-patriot-system-to-germany-to-speed-up-kyiv-delivery-1752928133649">Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery</a><h2>What is Russia’s response?</h2>The Kremlin has said it is open to continuing discussions. Earlier this month, it expressed readiness to talk again following pressure from US President Donald Trump, who warned Russia to reach a deal within 50 days or face new sanctions. Trump also pledged military aid to Ukraine, backed by NATO countries, to support Kyiv as Russian aerial attacks continue to escalate.<h2>Russian airstrikes kill civilians</h2>On Saturday, Russian missile and drone attacks killed at least three people across Ukraine. Two people died in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, a key industrial area recently targeted by Russian advances. Another person was killed in a separate drone strike on the port city of Odesa overnight. Meanwhile, Russia faced disruption when Ukrainian drones attacked the southern Rostov region, injuring a railway worker and halting train services for four hours. Both sides now rely heavily on drones to conduct daily attacks and to try to overwhelm each other’s air defences.<h2>Bodies returned as part of Istanbul deal</h2>As part of the Istanbul agreements, Ukraine on Thursday received the bodies of 1,000 soldiers. Russia said it received 19 bodies from Ukraine. Despite the absence of a ceasefire, such exchanges have continued as humanitarian efforts on both sides try to maintain some level of cooperation.

The last two rounds of negotiations, held in Istanbul, did not lead to any breakthroughs. Instead of reaching a ceasefire, both sides agreed to carry out prisoner exchanges and return the bodies of fallen soldiers.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (July 19) that Kyiv has proposed a new round of peace talks with Russia next week, after negotiations came to a halt in early June. In his evening address, Zelensky said, “Security Council Secretary Umerov… reported that he had proposed the next meeting with the Russian side for next week. The momentum of the negotiations must be stepped up.” He also restated his willingness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin directly, “A meeting at the leadership level is needed to truly ensure peace–lasting peace.” Also read: '300 strike drones, 30 missiles': Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine, despite Trump's ULTIMATUM and EU sanctions What happened at the last round of talks? The last two rounds of negotiations, held in Istanbul, did not lead to any breakthroughs. Instead of reaching a ceasefire, both sides agreed to carry out prisoner exchanges and return the bodies of fallen soldiers. Last month, Russia presented a list of demands, which included Ukraine giving up more territory and rejecting all Western military aid. Kyiv rejected the proposals outright, saying they were unacceptable and raised doubts about the purpose of further talks. Also read: Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery What is Russia’s response? The Kremlin has said it is open to continuing discussions. Earlier this month, it expressed readiness to talk again following pressure from US President Donald Trump, who warned Russia to reach a deal within 50 days or face new sanctions. Trump also pledged military aid to Ukraine, backed by NATO countries, to support Kyiv as Russian aerial attacks continue to escalate. Russian airstrikes kill civilians On Saturday, Russian missile and drone attacks killed at least three people across Ukraine. Two people died in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, a key industrial area recently targeted by Russian advances. Another person was killed in a separate drone strike on the port city of Odesa overnight. Meanwhile, Russia faced disruption when Ukrainian drones attacked the southern Rostov region, injuring a railway worker and halting train services for four hours. Both sides now rely heavily on drones to conduct daily attacks and to try to overwhelm each other’s air defences. Bodies returned as part of Istanbul deal As part of the Istanbul agreements, Ukraine on Thursday received the bodies of 1,000 soldiers. Russia said it received 19 bodies from Ukraine. Despite the absence of a ceasefire, such exchanges have continued as humanitarian efforts on both sides try to maintain some level of cooperation.

The last two rounds of negotiations, held in Istanbul, did not lead to any breakthroughs. Instead of reaching a ceasefire, both sides agreed to carry out prisoner exchanges and return the bodies of fallen soldiers.

Zelensky ready for direct talks with Putin? Ukraine proposes fresh peace talks amid massive Russian strikes

The head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea, visited Washington this week to seek US support for a controversial plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, according to a report by Axios. During his meeting with White House envoy Steve Witkoff, Barnea said that Israel has been in talks with Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Libya to accept large numbers of Palestinians displaced by the war in Gaza.He reportedly urged the US to offer incentives to those countries and help Israel make the plan a reality. Witkoff did not commit to anything during the discussion, and it is unclear whether the US government will get involved.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-much-better-off-starting-anew-trump-tells-iran-to-rebuild-nuclear-sites-elsewhere-so-they-can-be-obliterated-again-1752940619494">'Much better off starting anew': Trump tells Iran to rebuild nuclear sites elsewhere so they can be ‘obliterated’ again</a><h2>Why is the plan controversial?</h2>Israel’s government has described the move as a “voluntary” relocation, but both American and Israeli legal experts have said such actions could amount to a war crime. Nearly all of Gaza’s two million residents have been displaced during the ongoing conflict. Most buildings in the territory have been damaged or destroyed, and people have been forced to flee repeatedly, often with nowhere safe to go.Israel has been developing a strategy to move all Gazans to a narrow “humanitarian zone” near the Egyptian border. The plan has triggered serious concerns in Egypt and several Western capitals, where leaders fear it could be a step toward the mass removal of Palestinians from the territory.<h2>What countries are involved?</h2>Barnea told the US that Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Libya had shown “openness” to accepting displaced Palestinians. A senior Israeli official later claimed that any relocation would be “voluntary and not forced,” and that Palestinians who leave would be allowed to return to Gaza at any time. However, this claim has been widely questioned, with critics pointing out that people fleeing war zones with nowhere to live cannot truly be said to be making a free choice.<h2>Has this been proposed before?</h2>Back in February, US President Donald Trump proposed a similar plan to remove all Palestinians from Gaza and rebuild the region. But following strong opposition from Arab nations, the White House stepped back from the idea, according to US officials. Later, Trump’s administration told Israeli leaders that if Netanyahu wanted to go ahead with the idea, he would need to secure agreements from other countries willing to take in Palestinians. Netanyahu then tasked Mossad with finding those partners, leading to Barnea’s recent visit to Washington.<h2>What are leaders saying now?</h2>Speaking during his visit to the White House last week, Netanyahu said Israel was “working very closely” with the US to identify countries willing to accept Palestinians. He also referred to Trump’s earlier proposal, “I think President Trump had a brilliant vision. It’s called free choice. You know, if people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave. It shouldn’t be a prison,” Netanyahu said. Following a private dinner, a senior Israeli official told reporters that Trump remains interested in pursuing the idea of Palestinian relocation. However, the White House has not publicly commented on the issue.

Israel has been developing a strategy to move all Gazans to a narrow ‘humanitarian zone’ near the Egyptian border. The plan has triggered serious concerns in Egypt and several Western capitals, where leaders fear it could be a step toward the mass removal of Palestinians from the territory.

The head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea, visited Washington this week to seek US support for a controversial plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, according to a report by Axios. During his meeting with White House envoy Steve Witkoff, Barnea said that Israel has been in talks with Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Libya to accept large numbers of Palestinians displaced by the war in Gaza. He reportedly urged the US to offer incentives to those countries and help Israel make the plan a reality. Witkoff did not commit to anything during the discussion, and it is unclear whether the US government will get involved. Also read: 'Much better off starting anew': Trump tells Iran to rebuild nuclear sites elsewhere so they can be ‘obliterated’ again Why is the plan controversial? Israel’s government has described the move as a “voluntary” relocation, but both American and Israeli legal experts have said such actions could amount to a war crime. Nearly all of Gaza’s two million residents have been displaced during the ongoing conflict. Most buildings in the territory have been damaged or destroyed, and people have been forced to flee repeatedly, often with nowhere safe to go. Israel has been developing a strategy to move all Gazans to a narrow “humanitarian zone” near the Egyptian border. The plan has triggered serious concerns in Egypt and several Western capitals, where leaders fear it could be a step toward the mass removal of Palestinians from the territory. What countries are involved? Barnea told the US that Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Libya had shown “openness” to accepting displaced Palestinians. A senior Israeli official later claimed that any relocation would be “voluntary and not forced,” and that Palestinians who leave would be allowed to return to Gaza at any time. However, this claim has been widely questioned, with critics pointing out that people fleeing war zones with nowhere to live cannot truly be said to be making a free choice. Has this been proposed before? Back in February, US President Donald Trump proposed a similar plan to remove all Palestinians from Gaza and rebuild the region. But following strong opposition from Arab nations, the White House stepped back from the idea, according to US officials. Later, Trump’s administration told Israeli leaders that if Netanyahu wanted to go ahead with the idea, he would need to secure agreements from other countries willing to take in Palestinians. Netanyahu then tasked Mossad with finding those partners, leading to Barnea’s recent visit to Washington. What are leaders saying now? Speaking during his visit to the White House last week, Netanyahu said Israel was “working very closely” with the US to identify countries willing to accept Palestinians. He also referred to Trump’s earlier proposal, “I think President Trump had a brilliant vision. It’s called free choice. You know, if people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave. It shouldn’t be a prison,” Netanyahu said. Following a private dinner, a senior Israeli official told reporters that Trump remains interested in pursuing the idea of Palestinian relocation. However, the White House has not publicly commented on the issue.

Israel has been developing a strategy to move all Gazans to a narrow ‘humanitarian zone’ near the Egyptian border. The plan has triggered serious concerns in Egypt and several Western capitals, where leaders fear it could be a step toward the mass removal of Palestinians from the territory.

Trump to help Israel relocate Palestinians out of Gaza? Ethiopia, Indonesia and Libya named as options

Amid concerns about US President Donald Trump's swollen ankles and bruised hand, his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also revealed details about his heart health. She said that the US president underwent an echocardiogram as part of the evaluation and his heart function was normal. This came even as Leavitt revealed that Trump is suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, a blood circulation issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Karoline Leavitt said, "Amid all the tests, the President underwent bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasound, which assesses the blood flow to the legs, according to Levitt. His tests also included a total blood count, and he underwent an echocardiogram as part of the evaluation. The heart test “confirmed normal cardiac structure and function.”<h2>Trump diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency</h2>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Thursday revealed that Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a blood circulation issue, after “mild swelling was noticed in his lower legs.” Leavitt was addressing concerns over visible swelling in President Trump’s ankles and bruising on his hand when she made the disclosure and said that it was assessed to be “minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin” as a preventative heart-health measure. After investigating ankle swelling, doctors determined that Trump has blood pooling in his veins, a condition Leavitt described as common among individuals over the age of 70. As for the bruising on the hand, Leavitt said it was “consistent” with irritation from “frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin”.&nbsp;&nbsp;She emphasised that the tests showed “no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.” “I know that many in the media have been speculating about bruising on the president’s hand and also swelling in the president’s legs. In the effort of transparency, the president wanted me to share a note from his physician ... all results were within normal limits,” Leavitt said.<h3>Rumours about POTUS' health</h3>An X user shared photos of Trump's hand and ankles and pointed out that it was swollen. “Swollen ankles at the World Cup. Bruised hand at today’s press availability. Is the Trump administration hiding the President’s health?” the X user said. Another X user commented on the sitting posture of the POTUS, "He walks slumped over and sits in a way that looks like he is compensating for some breathing difficulty." Another user added, "He also looks like he has some skin health issues that should be looked into." A user said, “Yup I saw the ankles, and that can be a sign of cardiac or BP sometimes, chemo treatments, some medication too. I bet Trump falsified his health report. Well, obviously did where he said he was 224 lbs, and clearly that is not accurate just by looking at him.”<h2>Donald Trump's health report&nbsp;</h2>In April this year, the White House released a report by its physician stating Trump is in "excellent cognitive and physical health." In the first annual physical of his second presidential term, Trump was also found to have scarring "on the right ear from a gunshot wound", after an assassination attempt last July. "President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function," his doctor, Captain Sean Barbabella, said in a memo. At 78, Trump is the oldest president to take office.

Amid concerns about US President Donald Trump's swollen ankles and bruised hand, his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also revealed details about his heart health

Amid concerns about US President Donald Trump's swollen ankles and bruised hand, his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also revealed details about his heart health. She said that the US president underwent an echocardiogram as part of the evaluation and his heart function was normal. This came even as Leavitt revealed that Trump is suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, a blood circulation issue. Karoline Leavitt said, "Amid all the tests, the President underwent bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasound, which assesses the blood flow to the legs, according to Levitt. His tests also included a total blood count, and he underwent an echocardiogram as part of the evaluation. The heart test “confirmed normal cardiac structure and function.” Trump diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Thursday revealed that Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a blood circulation issue, after “mild swelling was noticed in his lower legs.” Leavitt was addressing concerns over visible swelling in President Trump’s ankles and bruising on his hand when she made the disclosure and said that it was assessed to be “minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin” as a preventative heart-health measure. After investigating ankle swelling, doctors determined that Trump has blood pooling in his veins, a condition Leavitt described as common among individuals over the age of 70. As for the bruising on the hand, Leavitt said it was “consistent” with irritation from “frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin”. She emphasised that the tests showed “no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease.” “I know that many in the media have been speculating about bruising on the president’s hand and also swelling in the president’s legs. In the effort of transparency, the president wanted me to share a note from his physician ... all results were within normal limits,” Leavitt said. Rumours about POTUS' health An X user shared photos of Trump's hand and ankles and pointed out that it was swollen. “Swollen ankles at the World Cup. Bruised hand at today’s press availability. Is the Trump administration hiding the President’s health?” the X user said. Another X user commented on the sitting posture of the POTUS, "He walks slumped over and sits in a way that looks like he is compensating for some breathing difficulty." Another user added, "He also looks like he has some skin health issues that should be looked into." A user said, “Yup I saw the ankles, and that can be a sign of cardiac or BP sometimes, chemo treatments, some medication too. I bet Trump falsified his health report. Well, obviously did where he said he was 224 lbs, and clearly that is not accurate just by looking at him.” Donald Trump's health report In April this year, the White House released a report by its physician stating Trump is in "excellent cognitive and physical health." In the first annual physical of his second presidential term, Trump was also found to have scarring "on the right ear from a gunshot wound", after an assassination attempt last July. "President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function," his doctor, Captain Sean Barbabella, said in a memo. At 78, Trump is the oldest president to take office.

Amid concerns about US President Donald Trump's swollen ankles and bruised hand, his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also revealed details about his heart health

White House reveals details about Trump's heart health after concerns about his swollen ankles: 'Test confirmed that...'

Russia launched a massive overnight drone and missile attack on Ukraine between Friday and Saturday (July 19), killing one person and injuring six others in the Black Sea port city of Odesa. The assault, which hit multiple cities, caused fires and damaged residential buildings. Odesa Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov confirmed the death and said five people were rescued from a burning high-rise.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-get-patriots-sooner-us-skips-switzerland-sends-patriot-system-to-germany-to-speed-up-kyiv-delivery-1752928133649">Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery</a>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media that over 300 strike drones and more than 30 missiles were fired at Ukrainian cities. “Last night, our warriors from various units repelled another Russian attack,” he said. “Target elimination is still ongoing, drones remain in the air,” Zelensky added that a child was among the six injured in Odesa, and critical infrastructure in the northeastern Sumy region was also damaged.<h2>How is Ukraine responding?</h2>Ukraine’s military said it successfully shot down 208 of the drones and missiles. Despite these defences, Russian drone barrages are becoming more frequent and intense, with some single-night attacks now larger than entire monthly attacks seen in 2024. This follows a major escalation on 8 July, when Russia reportedly launched over 700 drones, the highest number so far.<h2>What has the EU done in response?</h2>This week, the European Union passed its 18th package of sanctions against Russia. The new measures include a tighter price cap on Russian oil, restrictions on Russian banks, and a ban on any transactions related to the Nord Stream pipelines. They also target vessels in Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” ships allegedly used to dodge Western sanctions.<h2>What is Trump saying about the war?</h2>In a surprising shift, former US President Donald Trump has toughened his stance on Russia. In a BBC interview this week, Trump said he was “disappointed in” Russian President Vladimir Putin, though he added he was “not done with him” yet. Asked if he trusted Putin, Trump replied, “I trust almost nobody.” Hours earlier, Trump said he planned to send weapons to Ukraine and warned Russia of severe tariffs if a ceasefire is not agreed upon within 50 days.This is a reversal from earlier this year, when Trump called Putin a “nice gentleman” and criticised Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. At one point, Trump even called Zelensky a “dictator” and cut off both military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv.<h2>What has Zelensky said about Trump’s latest moves?</h2>Zelensky confirmed that he had spoken to Trump’s envoy, Keith Kellogg, about air defence systems and weapons. Trump has reportedly agreed to support key Ukrainian military requests based on a detailed list Zelensky presented during their meeting at the NATO summit in The Hague. Trump’s newfound support for Ukraine and his public endorsement of NATO come as the conflict deepens and Russian attacks intensify.<h2>What did Russia say?</h2>In response to Ukrainian drone activity, Russia’s Defence Ministry said it had shot down 71 Ukrainian drones overnight. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that 13 of those were heading towards the capital.

Ukraine’s military said it successfully shot down 208 of the drones and missiles. Despite these defences, Russian drone barrages are becoming more frequent and intense, with some single-night attacks now larger than entire monthly attacks seen in 2024.

Russia launched a massive overnight drone and missile attack on Ukraine between Friday and Saturday (July 19), killing one person and injuring six others in the Black Sea port city of Odesa. The assault, which hit multiple cities, caused fires and damaged residential buildings. Odesa Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov confirmed the death and said five people were rescued from a burning high-rise. Also read: Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media that over 300 strike drones and more than 30 missiles were fired at Ukrainian cities. “Last night, our warriors from various units repelled another Russian attack,” he said. “Target elimination is still ongoing, drones remain in the air,” Zelensky added that a child was among the six injured in Odesa, and critical infrastructure in the northeastern Sumy region was also damaged. How is Ukraine responding? Ukraine’s military said it successfully shot down 208 of the drones and missiles. Despite these defences, Russian drone barrages are becoming more frequent and intense, with some single-night attacks now larger than entire monthly attacks seen in 2024. This follows a major escalation on 8 July, when Russia reportedly launched over 700 drones, the highest number so far. What has the EU done in response? This week, the European Union passed its 18th package of sanctions against Russia. The new measures include a tighter price cap on Russian oil, restrictions on Russian banks, and a ban on any transactions related to the Nord Stream pipelines. They also target vessels in Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” ships allegedly used to dodge Western sanctions. What is Trump saying about the war? In a surprising shift, former US President Donald Trump has toughened his stance on Russia. In a BBC interview this week, Trump said he was “disappointed in” Russian President Vladimir Putin, though he added he was “not done with him” yet. Asked if he trusted Putin, Trump replied, “I trust almost nobody.” Hours earlier, Trump said he planned to send weapons to Ukraine and warned Russia of severe tariffs if a ceasefire is not agreed upon within 50 days. This is a reversal from earlier this year, when Trump called Putin a “nice gentleman” and criticised Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. At one point, Trump even called Zelensky a “dictator” and cut off both military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv. What has Zelensky said about Trump’s latest moves? Zelensky confirmed that he had spoken to Trump’s envoy, Keith Kellogg, about air defence systems and weapons. Trump has reportedly agreed to support key Ukrainian military requests based on a detailed list Zelensky presented during their meeting at the NATO summit in The Hague. Trump’s newfound support for Ukraine and his public endorsement of NATO come as the conflict deepens and Russian attacks intensify. What did Russia say? In response to Ukrainian drone activity, Russia’s Defence Ministry said it had shot down 71 Ukrainian drones overnight. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed that 13 of those were heading towards the capital.

Ukraine’s military said it successfully shot down 208 of the drones and missiles. Despite these defences, Russian drone barrages are becoming more frequent and intense, with some single-night attacks now larger than entire monthly attacks seen in 2024.

'300 strike drones, 30 missiles': Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine, despite Trump's ULTIMATUM and EU sanctions

At least 27 people died after a tourist boat capsized in stormy weather in Vietnam's Halong Bay on Saturday, state media reported.The boat, carrying 53 people, tipped over at around 2 p.m. local time (0700 GMT), as Storm Wipha approached the country across the South China Sea. Strong winds, heavy rainfall and lightning were reported in the area. Most of the tourists were from the capital, Hanoi, local newspaper VnExpress reported. There was no official announcement on the nationality of the tourists as emergency crews kept looking for survivors.&nbsp;Rescue teams found 11 survivors and recovered 27 bodies, eight of them children, the state-run Vietnam News Agency said, citing local authorities. Halong Bay, about 200 km (125 miles) northeast of Hanoi, attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. Boat tours are hugely popular. Storm Wipha, the third typhoon to hit the South China Sea this year, is projected to make landfall along Vietnam's northern coast early next week. Weather linked to the storm also disrupted air travel. Noi Bai Airport said nine arriving flights were diverted to other airports, and three departing flights were temporarily grounded on Saturday.

At least 27 people died after a tourist boat capsized in stormy weather in Vietnam's Halong Bay on Saturday, state media reported.

At least 27 people died after a tourist boat capsized in stormy weather in Vietnam's Halong Bay on Saturday, state media reported. The boat, carrying 53 people, tipped over at around 2 p.m. local time (0700 GMT), as Storm Wipha approached the country across the South China Sea. Strong winds, heavy rainfall and lightning were reported in the area. Most of the tourists were from the capital, Hanoi, local newspaper VnExpress reported. There was no official announcement on the nationality of the tourists as emergency crews kept looking for survivors. Rescue teams found 11 survivors and recovered 27 bodies, eight of them children, the state-run Vietnam News Agency said, citing local authorities. Halong Bay, about 200 km (125 miles) northeast of Hanoi, attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. Boat tours are hugely popular. Storm Wipha, the third typhoon to hit the South China Sea this year, is projected to make landfall along Vietnam's northern coast early next week. Weather linked to the storm also disrupted air travel. Noi Bai Airport said nine arriving flights were diverted to other airports, and three departing flights were temporarily grounded on Saturday.

At least 27 people died after a tourist boat capsized in stormy weather in Vietnam's Halong Bay on Saturday, state media reported.

Vietnam tourist boat capsizes in Halong Bay, 27 dead

Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has openly defended ‘The Resistance Front’ (TRF) - which was recently designated a terror outfit by the United States. Speaking at the Pakistani parliament, Dar repeated that due to Pakistan's intervention, TRF's mention from the UNSC statement for the Pahalgam terror attack was removed. He further said that Pakistan does not consider the TRF illegal and asked for proof that it carried out the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.&nbsp;"We opposed the mention of TRF in the UNSC statement. I got calls from global capitals, but Pakistan will not accept," Dar said. "TRF was deleted, and Pakistan prevailed." "We don't consider TRF illegal. Show us proof they carried out the Pahalgam attack. Show ownership by TRF. We won't accept the allegation, and TRF had to be deleted from the UN press release," he added. Dar's statement comes even as TRF publically took responsibility for the terror attack and has now been designated as a terror outfit by the United States' State Department.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Pak Deputy PM Ishaq Dar rejected TRF involvement in the Pahalgam attack and said : &#39;Alhamdulillah we are the non permanent member of UNSC.....we don&#39;t consider TRF as illegal...show the evidence that TRF has carried out the Pahalgam attack or show the ownership of TRF... We… <a href="https://t.co/qLwDAC4zVy">pic.twitter.com/qLwDAC4zVy</a>&mdash; OsintTV 📺 (@OsintTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/OsintTV/status/1946055389092663655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that TRF would be designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), and would face financial sanctions, restricting its access to support from individuals and entities under American jurisdiction. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar welcomed the US decision and termed the move "strong affirmation of India-US counter-terrorism cooperation."&nbsp;"TRF, a Lashkar-e-Taiba front and proxy, claimed responsibility for the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack which killed 26 civilians," the State Department said. “TRF has also claimed responsibility for several attacks against Indian security forces, including most recently in 2024.”<h2>How Pak got TRF's name dropped from UN statement&nbsp;</h2>Back in April this year, Dar revealed that Islamabad used its position as a non-permanent member of the UNSC to alter the language in the US-proposed statement, which originally named and shamed TRF. "On behalf of Pakistan, I had two objections [to the statement]. First, only Pahalgam was mentioned and secondly, the blame was put on The Resistance Forum," Dar said. "I thought this was not acceptable. You have to write Jammu and Kashmir along with Pahalgam." He added, " I gave clear instructions to our ambassador at the UN to ensure the amendments are made," he said. According to Dar, the process to finalise the statement took 2.5 days as Pakistan refused to accept the initial draft. "I received phone calls from big capitals to come to a consensus on the draft, but I told them nothing doing," he said. Ultimately, Pakistan’s objections were reflected in the final press statement issued by the UNSC.<h2>UNSC statement that Dar spoke about</h2>The UNSC condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam, underlining the need to hold the perpetrators, organisers and the sponsors of "this reprehensible act of terrorism" accountable and bring them to justice. "The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, during which at least 26 people were killed and many more injured," it said in the press statement. The 15 members reiterated that any acts of terrorism were criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed. They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat, by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.

'Show us proof...': Pakistan supports terror outfit TRF after US calls it Lashkar 'proxy,' says THIS about Pahalgam attack

Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has openly defended ‘The Resistance Front’ (TRF) - which was recently designated a terror outfit by the United States. Speaking at the Pakistani parliament, Dar repeated that due to Pakistan's intervention, TRF's mention from the UNSC statement for the Pahalgam terror attack was removed. He further said that Pakistan does not consider the TRF illegal and asked for proof that it carried out the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. "We opposed the mention of TRF in the UNSC statement. I got calls from global capitals, but Pakistan will not accept," Dar said. "TRF was deleted, and Pakistan prevailed." "We don't consider TRF illegal. Show us proof they carried out the Pahalgam attack. Show ownership by TRF. We won't accept the allegation, and TRF had to be deleted from the UN press release," he added. Dar's statement comes even as TRF publically took responsibility for the terror attack and has now been designated as a terror outfit by the United States' State Department.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has openly defended ‘The Resistance Front’ (TRF) - which was recently designated a terror outfit by the United States.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (July 19) said that Iran would be “better off” relocating its nuclear programme, after claiming the US obliterated three major sites in strikes last month. In a post on Truth Social, he wrote, “It would take years to bring them back into service and, if Iran wanted to do so, they would be much better off starting anew, in three different locations, prior to those sites being obliterated, should they decide to do so. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-demands-release-of-epstein-court-documents-1752937113800">'Nothing will be good enough for troublemakers': Trump demands release of Epstein court documents</a><h2>What did US intelligence say about the strikes?</h2>A new US intelligence assessment, reported by NBC News, suggests that while one site was heavily damaged, two others may not have been hit as hard. Officials say the Fordow facility was the most seriously affected, with two current sources claiming the strike may have set Iran’s enrichment capabilities there back by as much as two years. However, the two other sites targeted, Isfahan and Natanz, could resume enrichment within months, depending on Tehran’s intentions.<h2>What is the official US position?</h2>White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement, “As the President has said and experts have verified, Operation Midnight Hammer totally obliterated Iran’s nuclear capabilities.” Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told NBC, “President Trump was clear and the American people understand: Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz were completely and totally obliterated. There is no doubt about that.”<h2>Is Iran saying the same thing?</h2>Iran has not confirmed the scale of damage across all three facilities, but Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi admitted that Fordow suffered “severe damage” as a result of the US attack. Tehran insists its nuclear programme is for civilian use only, rejecting claims that it is pursuing nuclear weapons.<h2>What was Operation Midnight Hammer?</h2>The US strikes last month were part of Operation Midnight Hammer, aimed at disabling Iran’s suspected nuclear weapons infrastructure. The Trump administration claimed the attacks were necessary to prevent further nuclear advancement, while Iran called them unprovoked and illegal.An earlier report from the Defence Intelligence Agency had suggested the strikes might only delay Iran’s nuclear work by several months. However, Trump officials dismissed that as outdated and “low confidence,” saying fresh intelligence showed the damage was far greater.

A new US intelligence assessment, reported by NBC News, suggests that while one site was heavily damaged, two others may not have been hit as hard.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (July 19) said that Iran would be “better off” relocating its nuclear programme, after claiming the US obliterated three major sites in strikes last month. In a post on Truth Social, he wrote, “It would take years to bring them back into service and, if Iran wanted to do so, they would be much better off starting anew, in three different locations, prior to those sites being obliterated, should they decide to do so. Thank you for your attention to this matter.” Also read: 'Nothing will be good enough for troublemakers': Trump demands release of Epstein court documents What did US intelligence say about the strikes? A new US intelligence assessment, reported by NBC News, suggests that while one site was heavily damaged, two others may not have been hit as hard. Officials say the Fordow facility was the most seriously affected, with two current sources claiming the strike may have set Iran’s enrichment capabilities there back by as much as two years. However, the two other sites targeted, Isfahan and Natanz, could resume enrichment within months, depending on Tehran’s intentions. What is the official US position? White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement, “As the President has said and experts have verified, Operation Midnight Hammer totally obliterated Iran’s nuclear capabilities.” Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told NBC, “President Trump was clear and the American people understand: Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz were completely and totally obliterated. There is no doubt about that.” Is Iran saying the same thing? Iran has not confirmed the scale of damage across all three facilities, but Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi admitted that Fordow suffered “severe damage” as a result of the US attack. Tehran insists its nuclear programme is for civilian use only, rejecting claims that it is pursuing nuclear weapons. What was Operation Midnight Hammer? The US strikes last month were part of Operation Midnight Hammer, aimed at disabling Iran’s suspected nuclear weapons infrastructure. The Trump administration claimed the attacks were necessary to prevent further nuclear advancement, while Iran called them unprovoked and illegal. An earlier report from the Defence Intelligence Agency had suggested the strikes might only delay Iran’s nuclear work by several months. However, Trump officials dismissed that as outdated and “low confidence,” saying fresh intelligence showed the damage was far greater.

A new US intelligence assessment, reported by NBC News, suggests that while one site was heavily damaged, two others may not have been hit as hard.&nbsp;

'Much better off starting anew': Trump tells Iran to rebuild nuclear sites elsewhere so they can be ‘obliterated’ again

Senator Richard Durbin made startling revelations regarding the Epstein Files. Durbin said that FBI agents were assigned to review the documents in the Epstein Files and flag any documents that mentioned the name of US President Donald Trump. The revelations were made after an Illinois Democrat sent a letter to the Justice Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) asking them to explain the discrepancy between statements about the release of the Epstein Files earlier and its July 7 memo. Durbin’s letters were addressed to Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino.&nbsp;“According to information my office received, the FBI was pressured to put approximately 1,000 personnel in its Information Management Division (IMD) … on 24-hour shifts to review approximately 100,000 Epstein-related records in order to produce more documents that could then be released on an arbitrarily short deadline,” Durbin wrote. “Who decided to reassign hundreds of New York Field Office personnel to this March review of Epstein-related records? Why were personnel told to flag records in which President Trump was mentioned?” Durbin asked in his letters.<h2>Trump calls Epstein Files a ‘hoax’</h2>Trump called on Pam Bondi to release more documents related to the case against Epstein. This came after a Wall Street Journal report claimed that Trump in 2003 allegedly sent a letter bearing a naked woman’s drawing to Epstein on his 50th birthday. Trump criticised his supporters who are demanding the release of the Epstein files, calling them “weaklings” whose support he does not want. “Their new SCAM is what we will forever call the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, and my PAST supporters have bought into this ‘bull----,’ hook, line, and sinker,” Trump vented in a Truth Social post. Asked if he was effectively disowning those supporters of his who are still focused on the Epstein case, Trump replied, “I’ve lost a lot of faith in certain people.”&nbsp;Last week, he also defended Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been at the center of the uproar since the Department of Justice said this month that it would not disclose more Epstein-related records. “I really think that she’s done very good,” Trump said of Bondi. “She says ‘I gave you all the credible information,’ and if she finds any more credible information, she’ll give that too. What more can she do than that?”<h2>What are Epstein Files?</h2>The Epstein files are a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier accused of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. These files have drawn international attention due to Epstein’s links to high-profile figures in politics, business, and entertainment. A major part of the Epstein files comes from court cases, a defamation lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most outspoken accusers. In early 2024, hundreds of pages of these court documents were unsealed, revealing names, emails, and testimonies involving powerful individuals, however, large portions remain sealed or redacted. Jeffrey Epstein died under controversial circumstances in a Manhattan jail cell in August 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Senator Richard Durbin made startling revelations regarding the Epstein Files. Durbin said that FBI agents were assigned to review the documents in the Epstein Files and flag any documents that mentioned the name of US President Donald Trump. 

Senator Richard Durbin made startling revelations regarding the Epstein Files. Durbin said that FBI agents were assigned to review the documents in the Epstein Files and flag any documents that mentioned the name of US President Donald Trump. The revelations were made after an Illinois Democrat sent a letter to the Justice Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) asking them to explain the discrepancy between statements about the release of the Epstein Files earlier and its July 7 memo. Durbin’s letters were addressed to Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino. “According to information my office received, the FBI was pressured to put approximately 1,000 personnel in its Information Management Division (IMD) … on 24-hour shifts to review approximately 100,000 Epstein-related records in order to produce more documents that could then be released on an arbitrarily short deadline,” Durbin wrote. “Who decided to reassign hundreds of New York Field Office personnel to this March review of Epstein-related records? Why were personnel told to flag records in which President Trump was mentioned?” Durbin asked in his letters. Trump calls Epstein Files a ‘hoax’ Trump called on Pam Bondi to release more documents related to the case against Epstein. This came after a Wall Street Journal report claimed that Trump in 2003 allegedly sent a letter bearing a naked woman’s drawing to Epstein on his 50th birthday. Trump criticised his supporters who are demanding the release of the Epstein files, calling them “weaklings” whose support he does not want. “Their new SCAM is what we will forever call the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, and my PAST supporters have bought into this ‘bull----,’ hook, line, and sinker,” Trump vented in a Truth Social post. Asked if he was effectively disowning those supporters of his who are still focused on the Epstein case, Trump replied, “I’ve lost a lot of faith in certain people.” Last week, he also defended Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been at the center of the uproar since the Department of Justice said this month that it would not disclose more Epstein-related records. “I really think that she’s done very good,” Trump said of Bondi. “She says ‘I gave you all the credible information,’ and if she finds any more credible information, she’ll give that too. What more can she do than that?” What are Epstein Files? The Epstein files are a collection of legal documents, court records, and investigative materials connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier accused of operating a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. These files have drawn international attention due to Epstein’s links to high-profile figures in politics, business, and entertainment. A major part of the Epstein files comes from court cases, a defamation lawsuit filed by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most outspoken accusers. In early 2024, hundreds of pages of these court documents were unsealed, revealing names, emails, and testimonies involving powerful individuals, however, large portions remain sealed or redacted. Jeffrey Epstein died under controversial circumstances in a Manhattan jail cell in August 2019.

Senator Richard Durbin made startling revelations regarding the Epstein Files. Durbin said that FBI agents were assigned to review the documents in the Epstein Files and flag any documents that mentioned the name of US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Did Kash Patel deploy FBI to 'flag' mention of Trump in Epstein Files? BIG claim surfaces

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday (July 19) that he had directed the Justice Department to release all grand jury testimony related to Jeffrey Epstein, pending court approval. In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I have asked the Justice Department to release all Grand Jury testimony with respect to Jeffrey Epstein, subject only to Court Approval. With that being said, and even if the Court gave its full and unwavering approval, nothing will be good enough for the troublemakers and radical left lunatics making the request. It will always be more, more, more. MAGA!”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-get-patriots-sooner-us-skips-switzerland-sends-patriot-system-to-germany-to-speed-up-kyiv-delivery-1752928133649">Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery</a><h2>Why the sudden push to release testimony?</h2>Trump’s call comes after the Justice Department requested a federal court to unseal secret grand jury documents in the Epstein case. The request was made late on Friday and specifically pertains to the transcripts presented before the grand jury. However, the department has said it will not release the thousands of other documents it holds, which could be made public without court approval. These include files the FBI handed over during its investigation.<h2>What is in the grand jury testimony?</h2>Grand jury proceedings are normally kept secret to protect the reputations of individuals who are not charged and to make witnesses feel comfortable enough to testify. The transcripts could include witness statements and evidence used to consider whether to bring criminal charges. But even with the Justice Department’s support, any release could take weeks or months due to legal debates over how to protect sensitive information. Critics say these transcripts are unlikely to contain shocking revelations. Public frustration has mainly been over the unreleased files, not the grand jury documents.<h2>Why is the Trump administration not releasing the other documents?</h2>Despite having the power to release a large number of documents without court approval, Attorney General Pam Bondi said earlier this year that no further disclosure would be “appropriate or warranted”. She gave no detailed explanation and has avoided questions about the decision. The move to release only grand jury materials gives the Trump administration a legal excuse for the lack of transparency, but it may do little to calm criticism.<h2>What has triggered this new controversy?</h2>Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump allegedly sent a birthday letter to Epstein in 2003. The note, published as part of a birthday album, said, “Happy Birthday – and may every day be another wonderful secret.” The letter reportedly featured a hand-drawn naked woman and was collected by Epstein’s former associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. Trump denied writing the letter, calling it “false, malicious and defamatory”. He added, “These are not my words, not the way I talk. Also, I don’t draw pictures.”<h2>Trump files $10 billion lawsuit over Epstein article</h2>On Saturday, Trump revealed he had filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal. He accused the outlet of knowingly publishing false claims that caused “overwhelming financial and reputational harm”. He said the article was a key reason behind his push to unseal grand jury testimony, a move he believes will prove his innocence and repair his image with supporters.<h2>How is Trump’s base reacting?</h2>Trump had previously promised full transparency on the Epstein case during his campaign. But after last week’s announcement that no more evidence would be released, many of his followers expressed anger and suspicion.

Trump's latest move comes after the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump allegedly sent a birthday letter to Epstein in 2003. The letter reportedly featured a hand-drawn naked woman and was collected by Epstein’s former associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. On Saturday, Trump revealed he had filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday (July 19) that he had directed the Justice Department to release all grand jury testimony related to Jeffrey Epstein, pending court approval. In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I have asked the Justice Department to release all Grand Jury testimony with respect to Jeffrey Epstein, subject only to Court Approval. With that being said, and even if the Court gave its full and unwavering approval, nothing will be good enough for the troublemakers and radical left lunatics making the request. It will always be more, more, more. MAGA!” Also read: Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery Why the sudden push to release testimony? Trump’s call comes after the Justice Department requested a federal court to unseal secret grand jury documents in the Epstein case. The request was made late on Friday and specifically pertains to the transcripts presented before the grand jury. However, the department has said it will not release the thousands of other documents it holds, which could be made public without court approval. These include files the FBI handed over during its investigation. What is in the grand jury testimony? Grand jury proceedings are normally kept secret to protect the reputations of individuals who are not charged and to make witnesses feel comfortable enough to testify. The transcripts could include witness statements and evidence used to consider whether to bring criminal charges. But even with the Justice Department’s support, any release could take weeks or months due to legal debates over how to protect sensitive information. Critics say these transcripts are unlikely to contain shocking revelations. Public frustration has mainly been over the unreleased files, not the grand jury documents. Why is the Trump administration not releasing the other documents? Despite having the power to release a large number of documents without court approval, Attorney General Pam Bondi said earlier this year that no further disclosure would be “appropriate or warranted”. She gave no detailed explanation and has avoided questions about the decision. The move to release only grand jury materials gives the Trump administration a legal excuse for the lack of transparency, but it may do little to calm criticism. What has triggered this new controversy? Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump allegedly sent a birthday letter to Epstein in 2003. The note, published as part of a birthday album, said, “Happy Birthday – and may every day be another wonderful secret.” The letter reportedly featured a hand-drawn naked woman and was collected by Epstein’s former associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. Trump denied writing the letter, calling it “false, malicious and defamatory”. He added, “These are not my words, not the way I talk. Also, I don’t draw pictures.” Trump files $10 billion lawsuit over Epstein article On Saturday, Trump revealed he had filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal. He accused the outlet of knowingly publishing false claims that caused “overwhelming financial and reputational harm”. He said the article was a key reason behind his push to unseal grand jury testimony, a move he believes will prove his innocence and repair his image with supporters. How is Trump’s base reacting? Trump had previously promised full transparency on the Epstein case during his campaign. But after last week’s announcement that no more evidence would be released, many of his followers expressed anger and suspicion.

Trump's latest move comes after the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump allegedly sent a birthday letter to Epstein in 2003. The letter reportedly featured a hand-drawn naked woman and was collected by Epstein’s former associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. On Saturday, Trump revealed he had filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal.

'Nothing will be good enough for troublemakers': Trump demands release of Epstein court documents

The modern aerial combat is becoming more spoofy; what is visible on radar is no longer real. Two recent conflict zones have revealed scenarios of deception in the air. From Operation Sindoor between India and Pakistan, where Rafale jets allegedly dodged Pakistani missiles, to the contest in the airspace over Tehran, where Iran claimed to have downed Israeli F-35s, a new kind of battle is raging, one where ghost jets and phantom kills dominate the narrative. Powered by cutting-edge technologies like X-Guard and ALE-70, the traditions of aerial engagement are rewritten, giving enemies the illusion of victory, making it impossible to differentiate a real shootdown from a high-tech ruse.<h2>Operation Sindoor: X‑Guard decoy</h2>In the 4-day-long Operation Sindoor, India reportedly employed Rafale and Mirage 2000, and Su‑30MKI equipped with an Israeli X‑Guard towed fibre-optic decoy during strikes to deceive Pakistan's air defences. When deployed, X‑Guard mimics the radar signature of the jet and emits jamming signals by creating false radar returns using AI and DRFM tech, while constantly adapting its signature in real-time.According to reports, India had already acquired the X-Gard decoy system, and the May conflict was the first occasion of integrating those on a jet to enhance survivability in contested airspace.Pakistan claimed that they shot down several Rafales, but according to former U.S. pilot Ryan Bodenheimer, these were likely decoys or ghost jets, not actual jets, even advanced Chinese-origin PL-15E missiles failed to detect, demonstrating “the best spoofing and deception ever seen in combat.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> Air Force Fooled by Indian Electronic Warfare Tactics : Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/US?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#US</a> F-15E pilot Ryan Bodenheimer has called the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianAirForce</a>&#39;s tactics during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a> as the &quot;best spoofing and deception we&#39;ve ever seen&quot; and he credited the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a>’s AI powered X-Guard… <a href="https://t.co/W7UcSQXvXF">pic.twitter.com/W7UcSQXvXF</a>&mdash; IDU (@defencealerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/defencealerts/status/1942106168345661495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran vs Israeli F‑35I Adir : ALE‑70 decoy</h2>In West Asia, another 12-day-long conflict unfolded between arch rivals Israel and Iran. In June 2025, Iran claimed to have shot down up to four Israeli F‑35I Adir stealth jets near Tehran; not only that, they also claimed that they had captured one of the women pilots. Israel denied the claims as propaganda. Israel stayed tight-lipped about the specifics of the incident. Iran could not present any meaningful evidence to back its claims.&nbsp;Analysts believe this might be another decoy case. According to a report by Medium, ALE-70 is a small device that is stored under a hatch next to the flare dispenser on the F-35. It creates a false target mimicking radar signatures, deploys within 2 seconds, sustains supersonic speeds, and each F‑35 could carry up to four units.<h2>So, were any jets shot down?</h2>Based on the available reports, there is no credible source that shows that India lost any jets. Iran’s claims regarding Israeli F‑35 shootdowns also lack proof. ALE‑70 decoys may have been mistaken for actual fighters. Both X‑Guard (on Rafale) and ALE‑70 (on F‑35) are sophisticated decoy systems that can imitate real jets on radar. If these systems were used successfully in recent air operations, it could explain why no actual jets have been confirmed lost despite hostile claims. In both cases, we're probably looking at phantom kills, where decoys take the hits while real jets survive.&nbsp;

From Operation Sindoor to Israel's F-35 operation in Iran, the battle in the air is no more about speed, precision, range and firepower. Discover how the two conflicts between India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran have redefined modern aerial warfare.

The modern aerial combat is becoming more spoofy; what is visible on radar is no longer real. Two recent conflict zones have revealed scenarios of deception in the air. From Operation Sindoor between India and Pakistan, where Rafale jets allegedly dodged Pakistani missiles, to the contest in the airspace over Tehran, where Iran claimed to have downed Israeli F-35s, a new kind of battle is raging, one where ghost jets and phantom kills dominate the narrative. Powered by cutting-edge technologies like X-Guard and ALE-70, the traditions of aerial engagement are rewritten, giving enemies the illusion of victory, making it impossible to differentiate a real shootdown from a high-tech ruse. Operation Sindoor: X‑Guard decoy In the 4-day-long Operation Sindoor, India reportedly employed Rafale and Mirage 2000, and Su‑30MKI equipped with an Israeli X‑Guard towed fibre-optic decoy during strikes to deceive Pakistan's air defences. When deployed, X‑Guard mimics the radar signature of the jet and emits jamming signals by creating false radar returns using AI and DRFM tech, while constantly adapting its signature in real-time. According to reports, India had already acquired the X-Gard decoy system, and the May conflict was the first occasion of integrating those on a jet to enhance survivability in contested airspace. Pakistan claimed that they shot down several Rafales, but according to former U.S. pilot Ryan Bodenheimer, these were likely decoys or ghost jets, not actual jets, even advanced Chinese-origin PL-15E missiles failed to detect, demonstrating “the best spoofing and deception ever seen in combat.”

From Operation Sindoor to Israel's F-35 operation in Iran, the battle in the air is no more about speed, precision, range and firepower. Discover how the two conflicts between India-Pakistan and Israel-Iran have redefined modern aerial warfare.

Operation Sindoor to Tehran: The shocking truth behind 'Ghost Jets' and fake kill claims

The M23 rebel group said Thursday that a ceasefire announced a day earlier "doesn't really concern us," while calling for "direct dialogue" with Democratic Republic of Congo's government. "M23 has seen the document on social media... There was nobody in the summit (from M23) so it doesn't really concern us," Lawrence Kanyuka, political spokesman for the M23 (March 23) movement, told AFP. "Normally when there is a ceasefire it is between the two warring sides," he added. DRC's President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta attended a mini-summit in the Angolan capital on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At a media briefing in Kinshasa on Thursday, Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula said: "Tomorrow, 6:00 pm, the M23 must stop all its attacks." M23 rebels had been dormant for years, but took up arms again late last year and have been seen from the start by Kinshasa as actively supported by Rwanda, which denies the charges.&nbsp;The rebels recently seized large portions of territory north of Goma, the provincial capital of DRC's Nord-Kivu province.&nbsp;The Luanda mini-summit concluded with a deal on the cessation of hostilities in eastern DRC from Friday evening, followed by the withdrawal of M23 rebels from "occupied zones" and their "withdrawal to their initial positions".&nbsp;&nbsp;If the rebels refuse, the east African regional force being deployed in Goma "will use force" to push them out, the deal said.Kanyuka said the rebels declared a "unilateral ceasefire" in April and believed it was still in force."If tomorrow at 6:00 pm (1600 GMT), or in the morning, the government doesn't attack us, we will still be there," he said. Otherwise, "we are defending ourselves," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We are always ready for a direct dialogue with the Congolese government to resolve the root causes of conflicts," he added.The government in Kinshasa has refused to engage with the M23 group, which it calls a "terrorist movement", as long as it occupies territory in DRC. In response to a question, Lutundula ruled out direct negotiations with the M23 group.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda-backed armed group M23 signed a ceasefire deal on Saturday to end fighting that has devastated the country's mineral-rich but conflict-torn east. 

The M23 rebel group said Thursday that a ceasefire announced a day earlier "doesn't really concern us," while calling for "direct dialogue" with Democratic Republic of Congo's government. "M23 has seen the document on social media... There was nobody in the summit (from M23) so it doesn't really concern us," Lawrence Kanyuka, political spokesman for the M23 (March 23) movement, told AFP. "Normally when there is a ceasefire it is between the two warring sides," he added. DRC's President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta attended a mini-summit in the Angolan capital on Wednesday. At a media briefing in Kinshasa on Thursday, Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula said: "Tomorrow, 6:00 pm, the M23 must stop all its attacks." M23 rebels had been dormant for years, but took up arms again late last year and have been seen from the start by Kinshasa as actively supported by Rwanda, which denies the charges. The rebels recently seized large portions of territory north of Goma, the provincial capital of DRC's Nord-Kivu province. The Luanda mini-summit concluded with a deal on the cessation of hostilities in eastern DRC from Friday evening, followed by the withdrawal of M23 rebels from "occupied zones" and their "withdrawal to their initial positions". If the rebels refuse, the east African regional force being deployed in Goma "will use force" to push them out, the deal said. Kanyuka said the rebels declared a "unilateral ceasefire" in April and believed it was still in force."If tomorrow at 6:00 pm (1600 GMT), or in the morning, the government doesn't attack us, we will still be there," he said. Otherwise, "we are defending ourselves," he said. "We are always ready for a direct dialogue with the Congolese government to resolve the root causes of conflicts," he added. The government in Kinshasa has refused to engage with the M23 group, which it calls a "terrorist movement", as long as it occupies territory in DRC. In response to a question, Lutundula ruled out direct negotiations with the M23 group.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda-backed armed group M23 signed a ceasefire deal on Saturday to end fighting that has devastated the country's mineral-rich but conflict-torn east.&nbsp;

DR Congo, M23 armed group sign ceasefire deal

Amid raging violence in Syria's southern province of Sweida, Israel on Saturday (July 19) dismissed a renewed pledge by Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa to protect minorities, saying it is “very dangerous” to be a minority in the country. Syrian Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said that the speech of Ahmed al-Shara was a display of “support for the jihadists attackers”. He termed Sharaa's accusations against Israel based on “conspiracy theories.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Clashes began between Druze and the Bedouin communities in the southern province of Sweida in Syria. Syrian forces who were deployed to restore peace in the region were accused of siding with the Bedouin faction. Israel bombed a key military building in Damascus, stating that they want to protect the Druze faction. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Israel is “committed to preventing harm to the Druze in Syria due to the deep brotherly alliance with our Druze citizens in Israel, and their familial and historical ties to the Druze in Syria.”<h2>‘Very dangerous to be minority in Syria’</h2>In a post on X, he said, “Bottom line: In al-Shara’s Syria, it is very dangerous to be a member of a minority — Kurd, Druze, Alawite or Christian.” His statement comes after Ahmed al-Sharaa announced a ceasefire and reiterated that it is his government's duty to protect the minorities. “This has been proven time and again over the past six months,” Gideon Sa’ar said, adding the international community has “a duty to ensure the security and rights of the minorities in Syria and to condition Syria’s renewed acceptance into the family of nations on their protection.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The speech of Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara was a display of support for the jihadists attackers (in al-Shara’s words: “The Bedouin tribes as a symbol of noble values and principles”) and blaming the victims (the attacked Druze minority). Al-Shara spiced all this with…&mdash; Gideon Sa&#39;ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) <a href="https://twitter.com/gidonsaar/status/1946506834937864530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Syrian presidency announces ceasefire</h2>Ahmed al-Sharaa, in a televised message, said that he "received international calls to intervene in what is happening in Sweida and restore security to the country." In the statement, the Syrian Presidency said that it is being enacted to spare Syrian blood, preserve the unity of Syrian territory, and ensure the safety of its people. Ahmed al-Sharaa also blamed Israeli intervention for the bloodshed in the region and said that it reignited tensions inside Syria. He thanked the Donald Trump-led US for its support. Sharaa also said, “The Syrian state is committed to protecting all minorities and communities in the country… We condemn all crimes committed in Sweida.”&nbsp;The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that at least 146 Druze fighters and 245 civilians were among those killed since Sunday. Of the dead, 165 were “were summarily executed by personnel of the defence and interior ministries,” said the Britain-based war monitor. In addition, the violence has also claimed the lives of 287 government troops and 18 Bedouin fighters, plus three Bedouin "who were summarily executed by Druze fighters", it reported. Another fifteen government soldiers were killed in Israeli airstrikes.

Amid raging violence in Syria's southern province of Sweida, Israel on Saturday dismissed a renewed pledge by Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa to protect minorities, saying it is very dangerous.

Amid raging violence in Syria's southern province of Sweida, Israel on Saturday (July 19) dismissed a renewed pledge by Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa to protect minorities, saying it is “very dangerous” to be a minority in the country. Syrian Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said that the speech of Ahmed al-Shara was a display of “support for the jihadists attackers”. He termed Sharaa's accusations against Israel based on “conspiracy theories.” Clashes began between Druze and the Bedouin communities in the southern province of Sweida in Syria. Syrian forces who were deployed to restore peace in the region were accused of siding with the Bedouin faction. Israel bombed a key military building in Damascus, stating that they want to protect the Druze faction. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Israel is “committed to preventing harm to the Druze in Syria due to the deep brotherly alliance with our Druze citizens in Israel, and their familial and historical ties to the Druze in Syria.” ‘Very dangerous to be minority in Syria’ In a post on X, he said, “Bottom line: In al-Shara’s Syria, it is very dangerous to be a member of a minority — Kurd, Druze, Alawite or Christian.” His statement comes after Ahmed al-Sharaa announced a ceasefire and reiterated that it is his government's duty to protect the minorities. “This has been proven time and again over the past six months,” Gideon Sa’ar said, adding the international community has “a duty to ensure the security and rights of the minorities in Syria and to condition Syria’s renewed acceptance into the family of nations on their protection.”

Amid raging violence in Syria's southern province of Sweida, Israel on Saturday dismissed a renewed pledge by Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa to protect minorities, saying it is very dangerous.

Israel to continue war in Syria? Foreign minister issues statement for minorities, slams Syrian president after ceasefire - What he said

The United States has decided to send its next Patriot air defence system to Germany instead of Switzerland, in a move aimed at speeding up the delivery of missile batteries to Ukraine. The Wall Street Journal reported the change on July 18, citing three US officials. This decision follows an announcement from the Swiss Defence Ministry, which said its delivery of US Patriot systems would be delayed after the State Department chose to prioritise support for Ukraine. Now, the Patriot system, coming off the production line, will be sent to Germany. In return, Berlin will send two of its own Patriots to Kyiv, the report said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-d-have-to-go-nuclear-only-8-days-of-missiles-left-ex-pentagon-official-warns-us-military-is-low-on-missiles-1752926782038">‘We’d have to go nuclear’: Only 8 days of missiles left? Ex-Pentagon official warns US military is low on missiles</a><h2>Trump’s new arms plan for Ukraine starts to take shape</h2>This marks the first time since Donald Trump voiced support for more military aid to Ukraine that the Pentagon has helped facilitate the process. On 7 July, Trump backed new weapons support, and by 14 July, he had announced a plan to send arms through a NATO- and EU-backed scheme. Under this plan, alliance members will buy US-made weapons for Ukraine. When outlining the plan, Trump claimed that Patriot systems and missiles could reach Ukraine “within days”.One senior US official told the WSJ that Washington will negotiate separate deals with each NATO country. These deals will include both offensive and defensive weapons, with countries giving the weapons to Ukraine and then buying replacements from the US.<h2>NATO allies line up behind the new strategy</h2>Germany, the UK, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland and Canada have all agreed to back the new approach, a NATO official said. However, there is some confusion on the ground. On 16 July, Trump said Patriot missiles were already being shipped from Germany to Ukraine. But Germany’s Defence Ministry responded that it had no information about such a shipment. The report did not mention when the two German Patriots would reach Ukraine.<h2>Patriot systems critical as Ukraine faces nightly missile strikes</h2>Ukraine’s demand for more air defences has become desperate in recent weeks, as Russia continues its missile and drone attacks on cities across the country. Civilians have been killed and wounded in large numbers, with existing Ukrainian defences stretched thin.So far, the US has sent three Patriot batteries to Ukraine, while Germany has delivered three more. A European coalition has provided one additional system, though some are temporarily out of action due to maintenance. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said on 17 July that the United States is “moving with haste” to push through the deliveries under Trump’s new weapons strategy.

To expedite the delivery of missile batteries to Ukraine, the United States has redirected its next Patriot air defense system, sending it to Germany instead of Switzerland.

The United States has decided to send its next Patriot air defence system to Germany instead of Switzerland, in a move aimed at speeding up the delivery of missile batteries to Ukraine. The Wall Street Journal reported the change on July 18, citing three US officials. This decision follows an announcement from the Swiss Defence Ministry, which said its delivery of US Patriot systems would be delayed after the State Department chose to prioritise support for Ukraine. Now, the Patriot system, coming off the production line, will be sent to Germany. In return, Berlin will send two of its own Patriots to Kyiv, the report said. Also read: ‘We’d have to go nuclear’: Only 8 days of missiles left? Ex-Pentagon official warns US military is low on missiles Trump’s new arms plan for Ukraine starts to take shape This marks the first time since Donald Trump voiced support for more military aid to Ukraine that the Pentagon has helped facilitate the process. On 7 July, Trump backed new weapons support, and by 14 July, he had announced a plan to send arms through a NATO- and EU-backed scheme. Under this plan, alliance members will buy US-made weapons for Ukraine. When outlining the plan, Trump claimed that Patriot systems and missiles could reach Ukraine “within days”. One senior US official told the WSJ that Washington will negotiate separate deals with each NATO country. These deals will include both offensive and defensive weapons, with countries giving the weapons to Ukraine and then buying replacements from the US. NATO allies line up behind the new strategy Germany, the UK, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland and Canada have all agreed to back the new approach, a NATO official said. However, there is some confusion on the ground. On 16 July, Trump said Patriot missiles were already being shipped from Germany to Ukraine. But Germany’s Defence Ministry responded that it had no information about such a shipment. The report did not mention when the two German Patriots would reach Ukraine. Patriot systems critical as Ukraine faces nightly missile strikes Ukraine’s demand for more air defences has become desperate in recent weeks, as Russia continues its missile and drone attacks on cities across the country. Civilians have been killed and wounded in large numbers, with existing Ukrainian defences stretched thin. So far, the US has sent three Patriot batteries to Ukraine, while Germany has delivered three more. A European coalition has provided one additional system, though some are temporarily out of action due to maintenance. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said on 17 July that the United States is “moving with haste” to push through the deliveries under Trump’s new weapons strategy.

To expedite the delivery of missile batteries to Ukraine, the United States has redirected its next Patriot air defence system, sending it to Germany instead of Switzerland.

Ukraine to get Patriots sooner? US skips Switzerland, sends Patriot system to Germany to speed up Kyiv delivery

Syria on Saturday (July 19) announced an "immediate ceasefire" in Sweida amid raging violence in the region between the Druze community and the Bedouin tribe. The announcement by the Syrian presidency comes after the United States announced that Israel and Syria have agreed to a ceasefire. This is a second ceasefire announcement - earlier, Turkey's US ambassador, Tom Barrack, announced that Syria and Israel had agreed to a ceasefire on Friday. He said the truce was supported by neighbours, including Turkey and Jordan.&nbsp;Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, said in a televised message that he “received international calls to intervene in what is happening in Sweida and restore security to the country." In the statement, the Syrian Presidency said that it is being enacted “to spare Syrian blood, preserve the unity of Syrian territory, and the safety of its people”. Ahmed al-Sharaa also blamed Israeli intervention for the bloodshed in the region. He said that Israel has “reignited tensions." He thanked the Donald Trump-led US for its support.&nbsp;Syrian government forces were being redeployed to Sweida to halt renewed fighting. Convoys of security forces were seen on the highway between Damascus and Daraa in the south, waiting for instructions. “The internal security forces are gathering to enter Sweida province to prevail security and safety, and to settle the dispute between the Arab tribes and outlaws, to protect the state’s institutions and protect civilians and innocent children and to protect all sects,” said security officer Yousef Al Ahmad.&nbsp;Earlier on July 17, Ahmed al-Sharaa warned against external intervention and said that it is his duty to protect the minorities of his country. “Protecting your rights is our priority, and we reject any attempt to drag you into the hands of an external party. The Syrian state is everyone's state.. and unity is Syria's weapon, and we need everyone to build the country. The Druze are part of the nation's fabric, and their protection is a priority," Ahmed al-Sharaa said. He also added, “We were faced with the choice of war with Israel or allowing Druze leaders to reach an agreement, so we chose to protect the homeland….We will not allow Syria to be dragged into new wars,” he said.<h2>How did the current clashes begin?</h2>The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based war monitor, said the clashes started after members of a Bedouin tribe in Sweida province set up a checkpoint where they attacked and robbed a Druze man, leading to tit-for-tat attacks and kidnappings between the tribes and Druze armed groups. Government security forces deployed to restore order, but were seen as taking the side of the Bedouin tribes against Druze factions. The Syrian military entered the Druze strongholds, triggering fears of attack on minorities and prompting Israeli strikes.&nbsp;The Syrian government's demand for disarmament is being met with scepticism by the Druze community, as they have not completely forgotten Ahmed al-Sharaa's past involvement with al-Qaeda. Syria’s religious and ethnic communities are worried about their place in Syria’s new system. Moreover, the Druze in Sweida province have not forgotten the past traumas when as many as 200 members of the community were attacked by the Islamic State group in 2018, and more than two dozen were taken hostage.<h2>Why did Israel intervene in the matter?</h2>Israel does not want militants near the country’s northern border. Since Assad’s fall, Israeli forces have seized control of a UN-patrolled buffer zone in Syria near the border with the Israel-annexed Golan and have carried out hundreds of airstrikes on military sites. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Israel is “committed to preventing harm to the Druze in Syria due to the deep brotherly alliance with our Druze citizens in Israel, and their familial and historical ties to the Druze in Syria.” The Israeli government had also unilaterally declared a demilitarisation zone in Syria that “prohibits the introduction of forces and weapons into southern Syria." Israel, wary of extremist groups along its borders, has adopted a confrontational stance toward al-Sharaa, despite efforts by the Trump administration to foster Syrian-Israeli reconciliation and expansion of the Abraham Accords. Moreover, after the fall of the Assad regime, Israel has occupied more territories in Syria.

Syria on Saturday (July 19) announced an "immediate ceasefire" in Sweida amid raging violence in the region between the Druze community and Bedouin tribe. Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, said that he “received international calls to intervene in what is happening in Sweida."

Syria on Saturday (July 19) announced an "immediate ceasefire" in Sweida amid raging violence in the region between the Druze community and the Bedouin tribe. The announcement by the Syrian presidency comes after the United States announced that Israel and Syria have agreed to a ceasefire. This is a second ceasefire announcement - earlier, Turkey's US ambassador, Tom Barrack, announced that Syria and Israel had agreed to a ceasefire on Friday. He said the truce was supported by neighbours, including Turkey and Jordan. Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, said in a televised message that he “received international calls to intervene in what is happening in Sweida and restore security to the country." In the statement, the Syrian Presidency said that it is being enacted “to spare Syrian blood, preserve the unity of Syrian territory, and the safety of its people”. Ahmed al-Sharaa also blamed Israeli intervention for the bloodshed in the region. He said that Israel has “reignited tensions." He thanked the Donald Trump-led US for its support. Syrian government forces were being redeployed to Sweida to halt renewed fighting. Convoys of security forces were seen on the highway between Damascus and Daraa in the south, waiting for instructions. “The internal security forces are gathering to enter Sweida province to prevail security and safety, and to settle the dispute between the Arab tribes and outlaws, to protect the state’s institutions and protect civilians and innocent children and to protect all sects,” said security officer Yousef Al Ahmad. Earlier on July 17, Ahmed al-Sharaa warned against external intervention and said that it is his duty to protect the minorities of his country. “Protecting your rights is our priority, and we reject any attempt to drag you into the hands of an external party. The Syrian state is everyone's state.. and unity is Syria's weapon, and we need everyone to build the country. The Druze are part of the nation's fabric, and their protection is a priority," Ahmed al-Sharaa said. He also added, “We were faced with the choice of war with Israel or allowing Druze leaders to reach an agreement, so we chose to protect the homeland….We will not allow Syria to be dragged into new wars,” he said. How did the current clashes begin? The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based war monitor, said the clashes started after members of a Bedouin tribe in Sweida province set up a checkpoint where they attacked and robbed a Druze man, leading to tit-for-tat attacks and kidnappings between the tribes and Druze armed groups. Government security forces deployed to restore order, but were seen as taking the side of the Bedouin tribes against Druze factions. The Syrian military entered the Druze strongholds, triggering fears of attack on minorities and prompting Israeli strikes. The Syrian government's demand for disarmament is being met with scepticism by the Druze community, as they have not completely forgotten Ahmed al-Sharaa's past involvement with al-Qaeda. Syria’s religious and ethnic communities are worried about their place in Syria’s new system. Moreover, the Druze in Sweida province have not forgotten the past traumas when as many as 200 members of the community were attacked by the Islamic State group in 2018, and more than two dozen were taken hostage. Why did Israel intervene in the matter? Israel does not want militants near the country’s northern border. Since Assad’s fall, Israeli forces have seized control of a UN-patrolled buffer zone in Syria near the border with the Israel-annexed Golan and have carried out hundreds of airstrikes on military sites. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Israel is “committed to preventing harm to the Druze in Syria due to the deep brotherly alliance with our Druze citizens in Israel, and their familial and historical ties to the Druze in Syria.” The Israeli government had also unilaterally declared a demilitarisation zone in Syria that “prohibits the introduction of forces and weapons into southern Syria." Israel, wary of extremist groups along its borders, has adopted a confrontational stance toward al-Sharaa, despite efforts by the Trump administration to foster Syrian-Israeli reconciliation and expansion of the Abraham Accords. Moreover, after the fall of the Assad regime, Israel has occupied more territories in Syria.

Syria on Saturday (July 19) announced an "immediate ceasefire" in Sweida amid raging violence in the region between the Druze community and Bedouin tribe. Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, said that he “received international calls to intervene in what is happening in Sweida."

Syrian president announces new ceasefire in Sweida after US intervention | Will Israel-Syria war stop and ceasefire hold?

Inside the mystery of the world's fastest jets that never flew, ‘SR-72’, also known as 'Son of Blackbird'. This was supposed to be the successor of the SR-71 ‘Blackbird’. But no one has ever seen it. Here are a few theories why the world's fastest jet is still grounded.

Top secret or total scam: The mystery of the world's fastest jet SR-72 'Son of Blackbird'

A former Pentagon adviser has issued a serious warning about the state of America’s military readiness, claiming the United States may only have enough missiles to fight for eight days before being forced to consider using nuclear weapons. Retired Colonel Douglas Macgregor, who once served as a senior adviser to the Secretary of Defence under Donald Trump, claimed in a post on X (formerly Twitter), urging the US to stop exporting weapons overseas.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-hit-them-very-very-hard-trump-repeats-10-tariff-threat-against-brics-here-s-what-he-said-1752919987339">‘I hit them very, very hard’: Trump repeats 10% tariff threat against BRICS</a>“America needs to stop sending weapons abroad. “Very reliable sources tell me we have roughly 8 days of offensive and defensive missiles on hand and readily available. Translation: We can fight an 8-day war and then we would have to go nuclear,” Macgregor wrote.<h2>Trump ramps up weapons support for Ukraine</h2>MacGregor’s comments come at a time of rising concern about US stockpiles, as the country continues to send military aid to Ukraine. Just days before his post, President Donald Trump announced a major new shipment of weapons to Kyiv, reversing his earlier stance on holding back military support.Ukrainian officials praised the move, describing it as a much-needed boost in their defence against Russia. However, defence analysts in Washington are questioning whether such support can be sustained, especially as it puts more strain on America’s limited military resources.<h2>Pentagon struggles to restock weapons</h2>Reports in recent months have shown that the Pentagon is facing challenges in replenishing its high-end weaponry. Deliveries of some key systems, including long-range missiles, Patriot interceptors and 155mm artillery shells, have already been delayed due to production and supply issues.MacGregor’s statement has added to growing pressure from some conservatives to rethink how and where US weapons are being used. Many have argued that Washington is risking its national defence capabilities by continuing to send large amounts of arms abroad.<h2>Russia raises alarm over US involvement</h2>At the same time, tensions with Russia continue to escalate. Moscow has accused Ukraine of using long-range weapons supplied by the US and its allies to strike civilian targets inside Russian territory. These actions, according to the Kremlin, are undermining any hopes of peace talks.President Vladimir Putin has previously warned that the introduction of such weapons could drastically change the direction of the war. “We will make the necessary decisions based on the threats we face,” Putin said recently, hinting that Russia might revise its strategy if NATO appears directly involved.<h2>Can Washington handle a new conflict?</h2>With both the Biden administration and Trump’s team facing criticism at home and abroad, there are growing questions about whether the US can maintain its overseas commitments without weakening its defences. As calls to reassess America’s military role grow louder, MacGregor’s warning has added new urgency to an already heated debate.

Just days before his post, President Donald Trump announced a major new shipment of weapons to Kyiv, reversing his earlier stance on holding back military support.

A former Pentagon adviser has issued a serious warning about the state of America’s military readiness, claiming the United States may only have enough missiles to fight for eight days before being forced to consider using nuclear weapons. Retired Colonel Douglas Macgregor, who once served as a senior adviser to the Secretary of Defence under Donald Trump, claimed in a post on X (formerly Twitter), urging the US to stop exporting weapons overseas. Also read: ‘I hit them very, very hard’: Trump repeats 10% tariff threat against BRICS “America needs to stop sending weapons abroad. “Very reliable sources tell me we have roughly 8 days of offensive and defensive missiles on hand and readily available. Translation: We can fight an 8-day war and then we would have to go nuclear,” Macgregor wrote. Trump ramps up weapons support for Ukraine MacGregor’s comments come at a time of rising concern about US stockpiles, as the country continues to send military aid to Ukraine. Just days before his post, President Donald Trump announced a major new shipment of weapons to Kyiv, reversing his earlier stance on holding back military support. Ukrainian officials praised the move, describing it as a much-needed boost in their defence against Russia. However, defence analysts in Washington are questioning whether such support can be sustained, especially as it puts more strain on America’s limited military resources. Pentagon struggles to restock weapons Reports in recent months have shown that the Pentagon is facing challenges in replenishing its high-end weaponry. Deliveries of some key systems, including long-range missiles, Patriot interceptors and 155mm artillery shells, have already been delayed due to production and supply issues. MacGregor’s statement has added to growing pressure from some conservatives to rethink how and where US weapons are being used. Many have argued that Washington is risking its national defence capabilities by continuing to send large amounts of arms abroad. Russia raises alarm over US involvement At the same time, tensions with Russia continue to escalate. Moscow has accused Ukraine of using long-range weapons supplied by the US and its allies to strike civilian targets inside Russian territory. These actions, according to the Kremlin, are undermining any hopes of peace talks. President Vladimir Putin has previously warned that the introduction of such weapons could drastically change the direction of the war. “We will make the necessary decisions based on the threats we face,” Putin said recently, hinting that Russia might revise its strategy if NATO appears directly involved. Can Washington handle a new conflict? With both the Biden administration and Trump’s team facing criticism at home and abroad, there are growing questions about whether the US can maintain its overseas commitments without weakening its defences. As calls to reassess America’s military role grow louder, MacGregor’s warning has added new urgency to an already heated debate.

Just days before his post, President Donald Trump announced a major new shipment of weapons to Kyiv, reversing his earlier stance on holding back military support.

‘We’d have to go nuclear’: Only 8 days of missiles left? Ex-Pentagon official warns US military is low on missiles

A vehicle ploughed into a crowd in Los Angeles Saturday morning outside a nightclub, injuring at least 20 people. The LA Fire Department said "multiple patients" were at the scene on Santa Monica Boulevard near Hollywood. It reported that an "unknown vehicle" hit a crowd. Emergency teams are at the scene, treating the injured. The LAFD said that they had treated 20 people so far. At least five people are in a critical condition, while another eight to ten people are serious. Social media footage from the scene shows multiple people lying on the road, with dozens of firefighters and police officers on the street in East Hollywood. Some videos also show a smashed-up grey car over on the sidewalk. Bystanders were also helping out and treating victims. The fire department said, "LAFD is coordinating patient triage and transport at this time." A witness at the scene claimed to have heard a gunshot before someone crashed into the crowd outside the nightclub. She said that the driver remained inside the car as people surrounded the vehicle. He was soon tackled to the ground by security guards.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Los Angeles Fire Department's (LAFD) public information officer, Captain Adam Van Gerpen, told NBC News that it isn't clear whether the man ploughed into the crowd intentionally or if it was an accident. Sergeant Travis Ward, central traffic division watch commander at the Los Angeles Police Department, said an investigation is ongoing. He put the number of injured at 31. "Apparently there was a vehicle that had somebody who lost consciousness," he said. "We have reports that there was a gunshot wound in one of the patients." &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A vehicle has driven into a crowd of people in East Hollywood, injuring more than 20, the 🇺🇸 Los Angeles Fire Department says <a href="https://t.co/bgaZnnNeSS">https://t.co/bgaZnnNeSS</a> <a href="https://t.co/b8p6VIVNWv">pic.twitter.com/b8p6VIVNWv</a>&mdash; Saad Abedine (@SaadAbedine) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaadAbedine/status/1946531698390233419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

An unidentified vehicle rammed into a crowd in Los Angeles on Saturday, injuring at least 20. Five people are believed to be in critical condition.

A vehicle ploughed into a crowd in Los Angeles Saturday morning outside a nightclub, injuring at least 20 people. The LA Fire Department said "multiple patients" were at the scene on Santa Monica Boulevard near Hollywood. It reported that an "unknown vehicle" hit a crowd. Emergency teams are at the scene, treating the injured. The LAFD said that they had treated 20 people so far. At least five people are in a critical condition, while another eight to ten people are serious. Social media footage from the scene shows multiple people lying on the road, with dozens of firefighters and police officers on the street in East Hollywood. Some videos also show a smashed-up grey car over on the sidewalk. Bystanders were also helping out and treating victims. The fire department said, "LAFD is coordinating patient triage and transport at this time." A witness at the scene claimed to have heard a gunshot before someone crashed into the crowd outside the nightclub. She said that the driver remained inside the car as people surrounded the vehicle. He was soon tackled to the ground by security guards. The Los Angeles Fire Department's (LAFD) public information officer, Captain Adam Van Gerpen, told NBC News that it isn't clear whether the man ploughed into the crowd intentionally or if it was an accident. Sergeant Travis Ward, central traffic division watch commander at the Los Angeles Police Department, said an investigation is ongoing. He put the number of injured at 31. "Apparently there was a vehicle that had somebody who lost consciousness," he said. "We have reports that there was a gunshot wound in one of the patients."

An unidentified vehicle rammed into a crowd in Los Angeles on Saturday, injuring at least 20. Five people are believed to be in critical condition.

Vehicle ploughs into crowd outside night club in Los Angeles near Hollywood

&nbsp;United States President Donald Trump has doubled down on his threats against the BRICS group of developing nations and repeated that he would impose a 10 percent tariff on imports from its members. Trump also repeated his 'dollar is king' remark and said he would preserve its global status. He also said that he will never allow the creation of central bank digital currency in America.&nbsp;"When I heard about this group from BRICS, six countries, basically, I hit them very, very hard. And if they ever really form in a meaningful way, it will end very quickly," Trump said without naming the countries. "We can never let anyone play games with us."&nbsp;Trump had on June 7 issued warning to countries aligning with BRICS saying that they would be charged an additional 10 percent tariff. He termed the BRICS group follows an "Anti-American policy." The US President did not clarify or expand on the “anti-American policies” reference.&nbsp;"Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social.<h2>BRICS grouping&nbsp;</h2> The BRICS bloc of developing nations condemned the increase in tariffs and attacks on Iran, but refrained from naming Donald Trump. BRICS initially included India, Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa, among other countries. Last year, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia were added as members of the group. In the BRICS 2025 summit that took place in Brazil in the first week of June, the members took an indirect swipe at the US, the group’s declaration raised “serious concerns” about the rise of tariffs which it said were “inconsistent with WTO (World Trade Organization) rules.” The BRICS added that those restrictions “threaten to reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty.”

United States President Donald Trump has doubled down on his threats against the BRICS group of developing nations and repeated that he would impose a 10 percent tariff on imports from its members.

United States President Donald Trump has doubled down on his threats against the BRICS group of developing nations and repeated that he would impose a 10 percent tariff on imports from its members. Trump also repeated his 'dollar is king' remark and said he would preserve its global status. He also said that he will never allow the creation of central bank digital currency in America. "When I heard about this group from BRICS, six countries, basically, I hit them very, very hard. And if they ever really form in a meaningful way, it will end very quickly," Trump said without naming the countries. "We can never let anyone play games with us." Trump had on June 7 issued warning to countries aligning with BRICS saying that they would be charged an additional 10 percent tariff. He termed the BRICS group follows an "Anti-American policy." The US President did not clarify or expand on the “anti-American policies” reference. "Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social. BRICS grouping The BRICS bloc of developing nations condemned the increase in tariffs and attacks on Iran, but refrained from naming Donald Trump. BRICS initially included India, Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa, among other countries. Last year, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia were added as members of the group. In the BRICS 2025 summit that took place in Brazil in the first week of June, the members took an indirect swipe at the US, the group’s declaration raised “serious concerns” about the rise of tariffs which it said were “inconsistent with WTO (World Trade Organization) rules.” The BRICS added that those restrictions “threaten to reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty.”

United States President Donald Trump has doubled down on his threats against the BRICS group of developing nations and repeated that he would impose a 10 percent tariff on imports from its members.

‘I hit them very, very hard’: Trump repeats 10% tariff threat against BRICS | Here's what he said

In Syria, at least 718 people have been killed in Syria's Sweida province in the nearly one week of violence in the heartland of the Druze minority, a war monitor reported on Saturday (Jul 19). Publishing the updated toll, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that at least 146 Druze fighters and 245 civilians were among those killed since Sunday. Of the dead, 165 were “were summarily executed by personnel of the defence and interior ministries,” said the Britain-based war monitor. In addition, the violence has also claimed the lives of 287 government troops and 18 Bedouin fighters, plus three Bedouin "who were summarily executed by Druze fighters", it reported. Another fifteen government soldiers were killed in Israeli airstrikes.This comes as early on Saturday, the United States announced that it had brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Syria's interim government after a week of deadly violence in Syria's Druze-majority south.<h2>US-brokered truce</h2>&nbsp;The truce comes amid an eruption of violence between Druze and Bedouin communities in the southern province of Sweida, which has left at least 638 people dead and displaced nearly 80,000, according to monitoring groups and UN agencies. Fierce street battles, artillery shelling, and targeted abductions have gripped Sweida since Sunday, overwhelming hospitals, according to reports.US special envoy Tom Barrack, currently serving as ambassador to Turkey, said early Saturday that both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa "have agreed to a ceasefire" negotiated by the United States following days of behind-the-scenes diplomacy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-brokers-syria-israel-ceasefire-as-druze-bedouin-clashes-spiral-death-toll-crosses-600-1752886811132">US brokers Syria-Israel ceasefire as Druze-Bedouin clashes spiral</a>The deal, Barrack said, was jointly backed by Turkey and Jordan. "We call upon Druze, Bedouins and Sunnis to put down their weapons and together with other minorities build a new and united Syrian identity in peace and prosperity with its neighbours," Barrack said in a statement on X. Previously, on Wednesday (Jul 9) the US, as per AFP, had announced an earlier deal in which the Sharaa government pulled out forces from Sweida.

Nearly 718 people have been killed in Syria’s Sweida province after a week of brutal clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The dead include civilians, Druze fighters, and government forces—some allegedly executed.

In Syria, at least 718 people have been killed in Syria's Sweida province in the nearly one week of violence in the heartland of the Druze minority, a war monitor reported on Saturday (Jul 19). Publishing the updated toll, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that at least 146 Druze fighters and 245 civilians were among those killed since Sunday. Of the dead, 165 were “were summarily executed by personnel of the defence and interior ministries,” said the Britain-based war monitor. In addition, the violence has also claimed the lives of 287 government troops and 18 Bedouin fighters, plus three Bedouin "who were summarily executed by Druze fighters", it reported. Another fifteen government soldiers were killed in Israeli airstrikes. This comes as early on Saturday, the United States announced that it had brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Syria's interim government after a week of deadly violence in Syria's Druze-majority south. US-brokered truce The truce comes amid an eruption of violence between Druze and Bedouin communities in the southern province of Sweida, which has left at least 638 people dead and displaced nearly 80,000, according to monitoring groups and UN agencies. Fierce street battles, artillery shelling, and targeted abductions have gripped Sweida since Sunday, overwhelming hospitals, according to reports. US special envoy Tom Barrack, currently serving as ambassador to Turkey, said early Saturday that both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa "have agreed to a ceasefire" negotiated by the United States following days of behind-the-scenes diplomacy. Also read | US brokers Syria-Israel ceasefire as Druze-Bedouin clashes spiral The deal, Barrack said, was jointly backed by Turkey and Jordan. "We call upon Druze, Bedouins and Sunnis to put down their weapons and together with other minorities build a new and united Syrian identity in peace and prosperity with its neighbours," Barrack said in a statement on X. Previously, on Wednesday (Jul 9) the US, as per AFP, had announced an earlier deal in which the Sharaa government pulled out forces from Sweida.

Nearly 718 people have been killed in Syria’s Sweida province after a week of brutal clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The dead include civilians, Druze fighters, and government forces—some allegedly executed.

US-brokered ceasefire too late? Death toll in Syria's Druze-Bedouin bloodbath rises to 718, at least 165 'summarily executed'

Israel is known for its strong military and the 'impenetrable' air defence system called the Iron Dome. In its conflict with Iran recently, Israel's air defence system played a pivotal role in thwarting hundreds of missiles fired by Tehran. Now the Netanyahu government has announced the development of a new hypersonic missile defence system called the Arrow 4. According to Boaz Levi, CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the new air defence system will soon be operational.&nbsp;The missile interceptor is particularly being developed to detect and strike down ballistic and hypersonic weapons. The use of hypersonic missiles that can fly five times faster than sound, or Mach 5 was used by Iran to strike Israel this time.&nbsp;Let’s take a look at the capabilities of Arrow 4 that is being developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with the US Missile Defence Agency.&nbsp;What is Arrow 4 - Israel's new defence system&nbsp;<ul><li>Arrow 4 is a missile interceptor having the capabilities to strike down ballistic and hypersonic weapons that can travel more than five times the speed of sound</li><li>Arrow-4 can follow and strike these targets much more accurately</li><li>However, a public test needs to be done to confirm its capabilities of successfully intercepting &nbsp;hypersonic missiles</li><li>The air defence system is being developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with the US Missile Defence Agency</li><li>Arrow 4 has the capability of re-targeting and correcting its course to hit fast-moving or changing threats</li><li>Interestingly, the air defence system will be able to fire at the target again if it misses for the first time</li><li>Another interesting technological development of Arrow 4 is that it does not need to hit the target directly but can blow up near the target and still cause major damage &nbsp;</li></ul>

The missile interceptor Arrow 4 is particularly being developed to detect and strike down hypersonic weapons that have the capability of moving five times faster than sound.

Israel is known for its strong military and the 'impenetrable' air defence system called the Iron Dome. In its conflict with Iran recently, Israel's air defence system played a pivotal role in thwarting hundreds of missiles fired by Tehran. Now the Netanyahu government has announced the development of a new hypersonic missile defence system called the Arrow 4. According to Boaz Levi, CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the new air defence system will soon be operational. The missile interceptor is particularly being developed to detect and strike down ballistic and hypersonic weapons. The use of hypersonic missiles that can fly five times faster than sound, or Mach 5 was used by Iran to strike Israel this time. Let’s take a look at the capabilities of Arrow 4 that is being developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with the US Missile Defence Agency. What is Arrow 4 - Israel's new defence system Arrow 4 is a missile interceptor having the capabilities to strike down ballistic and hypersonic weapons that can travel more than five times the speed of sound Arrow-4 can follow and strike these targets much more accurately However, a public test needs to be done to confirm its capabilities of successfully intercepting hypersonic missiles The air defence system is being developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with the US Missile Defence Agency Arrow 4 has the capability of re-targeting and correcting its course to hit fast-moving or changing threats Interestingly, the air defence system will be able to fire at the target again if it misses for the first time Another interesting technological development of Arrow 4 is that it does not need to hit the target directly but can blow up near the target and still cause major damage

The missile interceptor Arrow 4 is particularly being developed to detect and strike down hypersonic weapons that have the capability of moving five times faster than sound.

Israel's new air defence system threat to Iran? Here's all about Arrow 4 that can hit hypersonic missiles with ease

In a saga that could only unfold in Pakistan, parrot sellers have suffered collateral damage after a journalist’s critique of the government. Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly frozen the bank accounts of independent journalist Asad Ali Toor, his family, and several bird sellers nationwide, all over transactions linked to the sale of parrots. The crackdown has raised fresh concerns over the misuse of financial tools to silence dissent.<h2>Accounts Frozen Over Parrot Transactions</h2>&nbsp;The issue first surfaced in April when Rozi Khan, a 29-year-old bird seller from Karachi, discovered his bank account had been closed following an FIA directive dated April 10, as reported by Pakistani newspaper, The Friday Times. Khan was on a business trip to Islamabad and, after completing a routine sale, was met with 'Invalid bank account' at an ATM. “I sell birds to all sorts of people,” he said. “I had no idea that selling parrots to a journalist could lead to this.”&nbsp;The investigation appeared to centre on Khan’s business with Asad Ali Toor, a prominent YouTuber and government critic with over 3,35,000 subscribers. Toor, known for his sharp commentary on the government and military, also collects rare parrots and spends more than Rs. 50,000 monthly on their care. Without any formal charges, the FIA froze the accounts of Toor, his parents, brother, cousin and multiple bird sellers across cities including Lahore, Sargodha and Rawalpindi.&nbsp;<h2>No Explanation, Only Questions</h2>&nbsp;Another bird seller, Nadeem Nasir, a 60-year-old businessman from Lahore, learned his account had been shut after a cheque bounced. When he managed to speak to FIA officials, he was questioned about his connection to Toor. “The last time he purchased parrots from me was in 2023 and early 2024,” Nasir told the Pakistani newspaper. “Since then, there has been no business transaction between us.”&nbsp;Toor himself said he only discovered the crackdown after his cousin’s account was frozen. “It’s not just about me. Even people who sold me birds are being punished. It’s absurd,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Crackdown on Critics</h2>&nbsp;This incident follows Toor’s previous troubles with authorities, including an arrest in February 2024 for allegedly running a 'malicious campaign' against the state, and an earlier assault in 2021. In May, the Islamabad High Court ordered Toor’s bank account restored after the FIA failed to justify its actions, submitting only a brief reply citing investigations into alleged “anti-state posts” and possible “money laundering”. As Pakistan tightens its grip on critical voices, even bird sellers find themselves under suspicion.

Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly frozen the bank accounts of independent journalist Asad Ali Toor, his family, and several bird sellers nationwide, all over transactions linked to the sale of parrots. 

In a saga that could only unfold in Pakistan, parrot sellers have suffered collateral damage after a journalist’s critique of the government. Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly frozen the bank accounts of independent journalist Asad Ali Toor, his family, and several bird sellers nationwide, all over transactions linked to the sale of parrots. The crackdown has raised fresh concerns over the misuse of financial tools to silence dissent. Accounts Frozen Over Parrot Transactions The issue first surfaced in April when Rozi Khan, a 29-year-old bird seller from Karachi, discovered his bank account had been closed following an FIA directive dated April 10, as reported by Pakistani newspaper, The Friday Times. Khan was on a business trip to Islamabad and, after completing a routine sale, was met with 'Invalid bank account' at an ATM. “I sell birds to all sorts of people,” he said. “I had no idea that selling parrots to a journalist could lead to this.” The investigation appeared to centre on Khan’s business with Asad Ali Toor, a prominent YouTuber and government critic with over 3,35,000 subscribers. Toor, known for his sharp commentary on the government and military, also collects rare parrots and spends more than Rs. 50,000 monthly on their care. Without any formal charges, the FIA froze the accounts of Toor, his parents, brother, cousin and multiple bird sellers across cities including Lahore, Sargodha and Rawalpindi. No Explanation, Only Questions Another bird seller, Nadeem Nasir, a 60-year-old businessman from Lahore, learned his account had been shut after a cheque bounced. When he managed to speak to FIA officials, he was questioned about his connection to Toor. “The last time he purchased parrots from me was in 2023 and early 2024,” Nasir told the Pakistani newspaper. “Since then, there has been no business transaction between us.” Toor himself said he only discovered the crackdown after his cousin’s account was frozen. “It’s not just about me. Even people who sold me birds are being punished. It’s absurd,” he said. Crackdown on Critics This incident follows Toor’s previous troubles with authorities, including an arrest in February 2024 for allegedly running a 'malicious campaign' against the state, and an earlier assault in 2021. In May, the Islamabad High Court ordered Toor’s bank account restored after the FIA failed to justify its actions, submitting only a brief reply citing investigations into alleged “anti-state posts” and possible “money laundering”. As Pakistan tightens its grip on critical voices, even bird sellers find themselves under suspicion.

Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly frozen the bank accounts of independent journalist Asad Ali Toor, his family, and several bird sellers nationwide, all over transactions linked to the sale of parrots.&nbsp;

Bizarre Pakistan! Parrot sellers face heat after journalist criticises the government

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot's viral video canoodling at a Coldplay concert may have sparked a massive cheating controversy. But, it turns out, it has also become a catalyst for a massive spike in niche adult content searches on Pornhub. As per a TMZ report, after a video of the Astronomer executives purportedly cheating went viral, the search volume for porn categories "cheating" and "affair" has seen a significant spike of 19 per cent.<h2>Cheating porn is in</h2>As per the report, the recent Coldplay concert fiasco has sparked a sudden interest in 'cheating' porn. Pornhub, one of the world's premier pornography websites, has reported a massive spike in searches for terms like "cheating" and "affair". On July 17, the search volume was up by over 19 per cent as compared to the previous day. Before, the interest was only about two per cent. Meanwhile, searches for "cheating couple", "cheating husband", "secret affair" and "caught cheating" saw an increase of 31, 29, 25 and 22 per cent respectively.The report has even revealed three particular titles that are getting all the love from people: "Dirty Office Threesome," "Office Babe HOTEL HOOKUP during professional BUSINESS TRIP", and the absolutely NSFW title "I f**k my boss in the office and record him so he will raise my salary or his wife will find out!" Basically, this week, cheaters and cheating porn are in.<h2>What happened at the Coldplay concert?</h2>During Coldplay's Boston concert, the "kiss cam" unintentionally caught in the spotlight Astronomer CEO Andy Byron with his company's HR, Kristin Cabot. The duo, both married to other people, were seen cuddling before jumping and trying to hide from the camera.Byron is married to Megan Kerrigan Byron, and they have two children together. Soon after the videos went viral Megan removed "Byron" from her name on various social media profiles. She also deactivated her Facebook account. Meanwhile, Kristin Cabot is married or was married to Kenneth C. Thornby. As per TOI, the pair split in 2018; their divorce was finalised in 2022.

As per reports, after a video of the Astronomer executives purportedly cheating went viral, the search volume for porn categories "cheating" and "affair" has seen a significant spike of 19 per cent.

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot's viral video canoodling at a Coldplay concert may have sparked a massive cheating controversy. But, it turns out, it has also become a catalyst for a massive spike in niche adult content searches on Pornhub. As per a TMZ report, after a video of the Astronomer executives purportedly cheating went viral, the search volume for porn categories "cheating" and "affair" has seen a significant spike of 19 per cent. Cheating porn is in As per the report, the recent Coldplay concert fiasco has sparked a sudden interest in 'cheating' porn. Pornhub, one of the world's premier pornography websites, has reported a massive spike in searches for terms like "cheating" and "affair". On July 17, the search volume was up by over 19 per cent as compared to the previous day. Before, the interest was only about two per cent. Meanwhile, searches for "cheating couple", "cheating husband", "secret affair" and "caught cheating" saw an increase of 31, 29, 25 and 22 per cent respectively. The report has even revealed three particular titles that are getting all the love from people: "Dirty Office Threesome," "Office Babe HOTEL HOOKUP during professional BUSINESS TRIP", and the absolutely NSFW title "I f**k my boss in the office and record him so he will raise my salary or his wife will find out!" Basically, this week, cheaters and cheating porn are in. What happened at the Coldplay concert? During Coldplay's Boston concert, the "kiss cam" unintentionally caught in the spotlight Astronomer CEO Andy Byron with his company's HR, Kristin Cabot. The duo, both married to other people, were seen cuddling before jumping and trying to hide from the camera. Byron is married to Megan Kerrigan Byron, and they have two children together. Soon after the videos went viral Megan removed "Byron" from her name on various social media profiles. She also deactivated her Facebook account. Meanwhile, Kristin Cabot is married or was married to Kenneth C. Thornby. As per TOI, the pair split in 2018; their divorce was finalised in 2022.

As per reports, after a video of the Astronomer executives purportedly cheating went viral, the search volume for porn categories "cheating" and "affair" has seen a significant spike of 19 per cent.

Busted at Coldplay concert, trending on Pornhub: Astronomer CEO's viral affair sparks porn trend

You ask for the meaning of a word or the cheapest way to travel to a new country and within seconds get a detailed answer. ChatGPT, Gemini and other such AI chatbots have become fonts for all sorts of information from the mundane to the complex. These AI-softwares have made our lives quicker and easier than ever before with ChatGPT recording 180 million monthly users in 2025. While queries like a 2,000 word essay on an obscure history topic may be harmless, there is a darker side to the unabridged use of artificial intelligence.Young people, especially those who fall in the GenZ category, are increasingly using these softwares for life advice and to decode mental health struggles that all of us go through.Even Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT has admitted that GenZ and millennials are using the platform as a ‘life advisor,’ often asking it for relationship and life advice.But this can be dangerous, as sometimes AI is steeped in stereotypes and dogma. Grok, the AI chatbot of X , recently came under the line of fire for giving anti-semitic responses, forcing the company to issue an apology.A Norwegian research group found that ChatGPT sometimes even gave advice to people on how to get away with serious crimes.In November 2024, Google’s Gemini reportedly threatened a student while assisting him with his homework and told him to ‘please die.’A month later, &nbsp;a family in Texas, USA filed a lawsuit claiming that an AI chatbot told their teenage child that killing his parents is a “reasonable response” to them limiting his screen time.But despite these obvious concerns, people are using AI for personal advice, willingly opening both their hearts and minds to it. &nbsp;What makes it so attractive?Hemakshi Mittal, a student of Christ University, says that she personally found AI to be “very useful because ChatGPT has a very non-judgmental, logic-based approach towards things, and it doesn’t give conclusions or suggestions based on your age, career choices or academics.”Similarly, Adrien, a 21-year-old engineer, said that “it’s kind of like texting someone who’ll always reply, even if it's just to organise my feelings.”Rupam Shukla, a 22-year-old sports journalist, said that he used AI for advice on how to deal with a colleague who was bad-mouthing him, and the advice actually helped him.<h2>Replacement for therapy?</h2>Therapy in India is still something that is widely accessed only by the economically wealthy sections of society. This may be one of the reasons that many people lean towards using AI for life advice, often using it as a therapist.Hemakshi agrees and says that “one session costs around Rs 1500 to 2000, and that is not exactly very affordable being a student, so it (AI) has indeed helped me with my emotional baggage.”Faishal, a 24-year-old, says that “many people don’t take therapy due to social stigma and thus choose AI for life advice.”On being asked if AI is a replacement for therapy, the responses were varied.While Adrien said that it is “not a replacement, but maybe as a supplement. Therapists bring empathy and nuance that AI can't fully replicate. But AI’s great for in-between moments.”Hemakshi says that even if therapy was more easily accessible, she would still choose AI because “ AI sees your problem and focuses only on the base root of the problem in itself and not other parameters like your career or your age or your relationship with your parents.”<h2>Mental health experts consider AI a mixed bag</h2>Therapists and psychiatrists consider AI to be a mixed bag to process emotions and feelings.“Not only does using AI for therapy risk your privacy, since you're sharing deeply personal information with a machine it also undermines the years of rigorous training, education, and ethical responsibility that therapists, students, and mental health professionals commit to. Accessible support is important, but so is recognising what real therapy involves,” says Mansi Poddar, a trauma-informed psychotherapist.“Therapy involves building rapport and then providing emotional support and then guiding the person through whatever the issue. I doubt whether AI will be able to do that. But in the future, with advances AI may be able to emotionally connect with the client,” says Dr Subhash, a psychiatrist practising in India’s Thiruvananthapuram.<h2>AI can be a therapist’s helping hand</h2>While experts do not consider AI a suitable replacement for human therapists, they agree that it can be used as a tool to help aid the therapeutic process.“By analysing the inputs people share with chatbots, we can gain valuable insights into what individuals are seeking from therapy and perhaps even what they feel is missing in human-led sessions. This data can serve as a useful resource for improving mental health services overall,” adds Mansi Poddar.“AI can screen, recognise patterns requiring intervention and provide basic inputs for the therapist to act on,” adds Dr Subhash.<h2>Need for caution</h2>While artificial intelligence is not going anywhere and its growth in all aspects of our life—including mental health—is bound to grow, it is important that we only rely on humans and trained mental health practitioners for advice and help.

People are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence bots like ChatGPT and Gemini for life advice as an alternative to therapy and mental health support. WION’s Akul Baiju talks to users and mental health experts about this growing trend.

You ask for the meaning of a word or the cheapest way to travel to a new country and within seconds get a detailed answer. ChatGPT, Gemini and other such AI chatbots have become fonts for all sorts of information from the mundane to the complex. These AI-softwares have made our lives quicker and easier than ever before with ChatGPT recording 180 million monthly users in 2025. While queries like a 2,000 word essay on an obscure history topic may be harmless, there is a darker side to the unabridged use of artificial intelligence. Young people, especially those who fall in the GenZ category, are increasingly using these softwares for life advice and to decode mental health struggles that all of us go through. Even Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT has admitted that GenZ and millennials are using the platform as a ‘life advisor,’ often asking it for relationship and life advice. But this can be dangerous, as sometimes AI is steeped in stereotypes and dogma. Grok, the AI chatbot of X , recently came under the line of fire for giving anti-semitic responses, forcing the company to issue an apology. A Norwegian research group found that ChatGPT sometimes even gave advice to people on how to get away with serious crimes. In November 2024, Google’s Gemini reportedly threatened a student while assisting him with his homework and told him to ‘please die.’ A month later, a family in Texas, USA filed a lawsuit claiming that an AI chatbot told their teenage child that killing his parents is a “reasonable response” to them limiting his screen time. But despite these obvious concerns, people are using AI for personal advice, willingly opening both their hearts and minds to it. What makes it so attractive? Hemakshi Mittal, a student of Christ University, says that she personally found AI to be “very useful because ChatGPT has a very non-judgmental, logic-based approach towards things, and it doesn’t give conclusions or suggestions based on your age, career choices or academics.” Similarly, Adrien, a 21-year-old engineer, said that “it’s kind of like texting someone who’ll always reply, even if it's just to organise my feelings.” Rupam Shukla, a 22-year-old sports journalist, said that he used AI for advice on how to deal with a colleague who was bad-mouthing him, and the advice actually helped him. Replacement for therapy? Therapy in India is still something that is widely accessed only by the economically wealthy sections of society. This may be one of the reasons that many people lean towards using AI for life advice, often using it as a therapist. Hemakshi agrees and says that “one session costs around Rs 1500 to 2000, and that is not exactly very affordable being a student, so it (AI) has indeed helped me with my emotional baggage.” Faishal, a 24-year-old, says that “many people don’t take therapy due to social stigma and thus choose AI for life advice.” On being asked if AI is a replacement for therapy, the responses were varied. While Adrien said that it is “not a replacement, but maybe as a supplement. Therapists bring empathy and nuance that AI can't fully replicate. But AI’s great for in-between moments.” Hemakshi says that even if therapy was more easily accessible, she would still choose AI because “ AI sees your problem and focuses only on the base root of the problem in itself and not other parameters like your career or your age or your relationship with your parents.” Mental health experts consider AI a mixed bag Therapists and psychiatrists consider AI to be a mixed bag to process emotions and feelings. “Not only does using AI for therapy risk your privacy, since you're sharing deeply personal information with a machine it also undermines the years of rigorous training, education, and ethical responsibility that therapists, students, and mental health professionals commit to. Accessible support is important, but so is recognising what real therapy involves,” says Mansi Poddar, a trauma-informed psychotherapist. “Therapy involves building rapport and then providing emotional support and then guiding the person through whatever the issue. I doubt whether AI will be able to do that. But in the future, with advances AI may be able to emotionally connect with the client,” says Dr Subhash, a psychiatrist practising in India’s Thiruvananthapuram. AI can be a therapist’s helping hand While experts do not consider AI a suitable replacement for human therapists, they agree that it can be used as a tool to help aid the therapeutic process. “By analysing the inputs people share with chatbots, we can gain valuable insights into what individuals are seeking from therapy and perhaps even what they feel is missing in human-led sessions. This data can serve as a useful resource for improving mental health services overall,” adds Mansi Poddar. “AI can screen, recognise patterns requiring intervention and provide basic inputs for the therapist to act on,” adds Dr Subhash. Need for caution While artificial intelligence is not going anywhere and its growth in all aspects of our life—including mental health—is bound to grow, it is important that we only rely on humans and trained mental health practitioners for advice and help.

People are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence bots like ChatGPT and Gemini for life advice as an alternative to therapy and mental health support. WION’s Akul Baiju talks to users and mental health experts about this growing trend.

AI is the new therapist? Experts weigh in on the growing trend of asking ChatGPT for life advice

A landslide triggered by torrential rain killed at least one person in South Korea, the national fire agency said Saturday.Three people were also missing after the landslide buried two houses in a village in southern Sancheong county, officials said, as heavy rain continued to pound the country."At least three people have been reported missing and we have recovered one body," an official at Sancheong county fire station told AFP.The official said that one person in their twenties, and a couple in their seventies were reported missing.Sancheong county told all residents Saturday to "evacuate immediately to a safe area".The county has a population of some 34,000 people.South Korea typically experiences monsoon rains in July, but the country's southern regions saw some of the heaviest hourly downpours on record this week, official weather data showed.The Ministry of Interior and Safety said Saturday at least four people have been killed in rain-related accidents and more than 7,000 forced to evacuate their homes.South Korea is regularly hit by flooding during the summer monsoon period, but is typically well-prepared and the death toll usually relatively low.Scientists say climate change has made weather events around the world more extreme and frequent.The country endured record-breaking rains and flooding in 2022 which killed at least 11 people.

Three people were also missing after the landslide buried two houses in a village in southern Sancheong county, officials said, as heavy rain continued to pound the country.

A landslide triggered by torrential rain killed at least one person in South Korea, the national fire agency said Saturday. Three people were also missing after the landslide buried two houses in a village in southern Sancheong county, officials said, as heavy rain continued to pound the country. "At least three people have been reported missing and we have recovered one body," an official at Sancheong county fire station told AFP. The official said that one person in their twenties, and a couple in their seventies were reported missing. Sancheong county told all residents Saturday to "evacuate immediately to a safe area". The county has a population of some 34,000 people. South Korea typically experiences monsoon rains in July, but the country's southern regions saw some of the heaviest hourly downpours on record this week, official weather data showed. The Ministry of Interior and Safety said Saturday at least four people have been killed in rain-related accidents and more than 7,000 forced to evacuate their homes. South Korea is regularly hit by flooding during the summer monsoon period, but is typically well-prepared and the death toll usually relatively low. Scientists say climate change has made weather events around the world more extreme and frequent. The country endured record-breaking rains and flooding in 2022 which killed at least 11 people.

Three people were also missing after the landslide buried two houses in a village in southern Sancheong county, officials said, as heavy rain continued to pound the country.

‘Evacuate immediately’: Deadly landslide hits South Korea as record rains trigger chaos

A man threatened to kill a flight attendant on a flight from Omaha to Detroit on Thursday evening. The captain had to make an emergency landing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where Mario Nikprelaj of Elkhorn, Nebraska, was arrested by the police. Officials and other passengers said that the 23-year-old shoved the attendant and also tried to open the emergency exit door when the plane was mid-air. It was a small plane run by SkyWest Airlines, an independent carrier that operates regional jets for Delta Air Lines as Delta Connection. Flight 3612 had about 67 passengers on board at the time of the incident. The man was charged with assault and disorderly conduct, among other things. Passengers said that Nikprelaj has been behaving poorly ever since the flight took off. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-spot-airplanes-piercing-holes-in-clouds-triggering-rain-and-snow-1752656788475">Bizarre finding shows airplanes are triggering rain and snow. Here's how</a>&nbsp;<h2>He tried to open the emergency exit</h2>He removed his seat belt and stood up when the plane was taking off. Jonathan Spencer Van der Waarden told the New York Times that he scared everyone when he lunged at the emergency exit gate while drinks were being served. He recalled that the action prompted another passenger to call for help. "Hey, we need help back here! He’s trying to open the door," a passenger shouted. The pilot soon announced that the plane was being diverted to Cedar Rapids because of an unruly passenger. However, Nikprelaj's antics did not stop there, and he went to the front of the plane when the plane was landing and fought with some passengers. When the crew asked him to return to his seat, he clashed with them as well. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-sneaks-his-wife-into-business-class-for-sleep-time-leaving-flight-attendant-stumped-1752823832777">Man sneaks his wife into Business Class for sleep time, leaving flight attendant stumped</a> &nbsp;<h2>Anti-anxiety pills found on man</h2>A video from inside the plane shows police officers taking away a man in handcuffs. The plane remained on the tarmac for two hours as passenger and crew statements were recorded. SkyWest Airlines confirmed the diversion in a statement, adding that it was “due to an unruly customer”. The plane left for Detroit after Nikprelaj was taken away. He was charged with harassment, unlawful possession of prescription medication and a failure to affix a proper tax stamp on 41 pills of Alprazolam. According to a criminal complaint filed on Friday by the Linn County assistant attorney, the anti-anxiety drug, sold under the name Xanax, was found on him at the time of arrest.&nbsp;

A man on SkyWest Airlines shoved a flight attendant, threatened to kill him and tried to open the emergency exit. Passengers said he had been unruly since the start of the flight and was a nuisance all the time.

A man threatened to kill a flight attendant on a flight from Omaha to Detroit on Thursday evening. The captain had to make an emergency landing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where Mario Nikprelaj of Elkhorn, Nebraska, was arrested by the police. Officials and other passengers said that the 23-year-old shoved the attendant and also tried to open the emergency exit door when the plane was mid-air. It was a small plane run by SkyWest Airlines, an independent carrier that operates regional jets for Delta Air Lines as Delta Connection. Flight 3612 had about 67 passengers on board at the time of the incident. The man was charged with assault and disorderly conduct, among other things. Passengers said that Nikprelaj has been behaving poorly ever since the flight took off. Also Read: Bizarre finding shows airplanes are triggering rain and snow. Here's how He tried to open the emergency exit He removed his seat belt and stood up when the plane was taking off. Jonathan Spencer Van der Waarden told the New York Times that he scared everyone when he lunged at the emergency exit gate while drinks were being served. He recalled that the action prompted another passenger to call for help. "Hey, we need help back here! He’s trying to open the door," a passenger shouted. The pilot soon announced that the plane was being diverted to Cedar Rapids because of an unruly passenger. However, Nikprelaj's antics did not stop there, and he went to the front of the plane when the plane was landing and fought with some passengers. When the crew asked him to return to his seat, he clashed with them as well. Also Read: Man sneaks his wife into Business Class for sleep time, leaving flight attendant stumped Anti-anxiety pills found on man A video from inside the plane shows police officers taking away a man in handcuffs. The plane remained on the tarmac for two hours as passenger and crew statements were recorded. SkyWest Airlines confirmed the diversion in a statement, adding that it was “due to an unruly customer”. The plane left for Detroit after Nikprelaj was taken away. He was charged with harassment, unlawful possession of prescription medication and a failure to affix a proper tax stamp on 41 pills of Alprazolam. According to a criminal complaint filed on Friday by the Linn County assistant attorney, the anti-anxiety drug, sold under the name Xanax, was found on him at the time of arrest.

A man on SkyWest Airlines shoved a flight attendant, threatened to kill him and tried to open the emergency exit. Passengers said he had been unruly since the start of the flight and was a nuisance all the time.

Mid-air scare for SkyWest Airlines: Unruly passenger tries to open emergency exit, threatens to kill flight attendant

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Why are people relying on AI for life advice? Experts warn of mental health risk

‘Evacuate immediately’: Deadly landslide hits South Korea as rains trigger chaos

Man threatens to kill flight attendant, open emergency exit mid-air