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The BAPS Hindu Temple in California was defaced with anti-India messages just days ahead of the so-called "Khalistani referendum" in Los Angeles, in yet another targeting of Hindu places of worship in the US.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Public Affairs confirmed the vandalism of the temple and criticised the act.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-uk-diplomat-after-pro-khalistani-man-breached-security-during-jaishankars-london-visit-8829404">India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit</a>
BAPS Public Affairs took to the social media platform X and released a statement saying, &ldquo;In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate."&nbsp;
"Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail," the statement added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m814rct9-33yk7751-kqztpr2m">
In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace&hellip;
&mdash; BAPS Public Affairs (@BAPS_PubAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/BAPS_PubAffairs/status/1898489613334770142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-video-indian-eam-dr-s-jaishankar-faces-security-scare-in-london-pro-khalistani-heckler-attacks-car-tears-indian-flag-8821363">Watch | Indian EAM Dr S Jaishankar faces security breach in London; pro-Khalistani heckler attacks car, tears Indian flag</a>
Media reports and pictures circulating on social media showed messages such as "Hindus go back" and hate comments against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi sprayed on the walls and floors.&nbsp;
The Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA) condemned the act and said that it was "just another day in a world where media and academics will insist there is no anti-Hindu hate and that Hinduphobia is just a construct of our imagination".
The organisation further listed a number of similar incidents in recent times.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-video-gurpatwant-pannun-attends-donald-trumps-inauguration-chants-pro-khalistan-slogans-8643100">VIRAL VIDEO: Gurpatwant Pannun attends Donald Trump's inauguration, chants pro-Khalistan slogans</a>
The Hindu American Foundation shared images of the vandalisation on X and called on FBI chief Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and the Chino Hills Police Department to "investigate this latest in a string of anti-Hindu hate crimes on our sacred spaces".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-men-accused-of-killing-khalistani-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjar-released-on-bail-by-canada-court-8604448">Indian men accused of killing Khalistani terrorist Nijjar released on bail by Canada court: Report</a>

World | India News | Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Public Affairs confirmed the vandalism of the temple and criticised the act.

The BAPS Hindu Temple in California was defaced with anti-India messages just days ahead of the so-called "Khalistani referendum" in Los Angeles, in yet another targeting of Hindu places of worship in the US. Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Public Affairs confirmed the vandalism of the temple and criticised the act. Also read: India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit BAPS Public Affairs took to the social media platform X and released a statement saying, “In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stands steadfast against hate." "Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace and compassion prevail," the statement added. In the face of another Mandir desecration, this time in Chino Hills, CA, the Hindu community stand steadfast against hate. Together with the community in Chino Hills and Southern California, we will never let hate take root. Our common humanity and faith will ensure that peace… — BAPS Public Affairs (@BAPS_PubAffairs) March 8, 2025 Also read: Watch | Indian EAM Dr S Jaishankar faces security breach in London; pro-Khalistani heckler attacks car, tears Indian flag Media reports and pictures circulating on social media showed messages such as "Hindus go back" and hate comments against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi sprayed on the walls and floors. The Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA) condemned the act and said that it was "just another day in a world where media and academics will insist there is no anti-Hindu hate and that Hinduphobia is just a construct of our imagination". The organisation further listed a number of similar incidents in recent times. Also read: VIRAL VIDEO: Gurpatwant Pannun attends Donald Trump's inauguration, chants pro-Khalistan slogans The Hindu American Foundation shared images of the vandalisation on X and called on FBI chief Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and the Chino Hills Police Department to "investigate this latest in a string of anti-Hindu hate crimes on our sacred spaces". Also read: Indian men accused of killing Khalistani terrorist Nijjar released on bail by Canada court: Report

Another Hindu temple vandalised in US with anti-India graffiti ahead of 'Khalistani referendum'

Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea&rsquo;s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from jail on Saturday (March 8) ahead of his insurrection trial.&nbsp;
Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, reported that over 1,000 people, including 745 civilians, were killed in the two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and fighters thought to be loyal to the ousted president Bashar al Assad.&nbsp;
At least one protester was killed, and over 40 others, including women and policemen, were injured in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in different parts of Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday (Mar 8), news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-impeached-prez-yoon-suk-yeol-released-from-jail-8835501">South Korea&rsquo;s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol released from jail</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/09/kzvXyABGVmvXZ75H91gZ.png" alt=" Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea&rsquo;s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from the jail on Saturday (March 8).&nbsp; Photograph: (AFP) ">Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea&rsquo;s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from the jail on Saturday (March 8) ahead of his insurrection trial.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1000-killed-women-being-forced-to-walk-naked-whats-happening-in-syria-8835464">Over 1,000 killed, women being forced to 'walk naked': What's happening in Syria?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/09/NJHhOMHUk2Q0mmtvTiqh.png" alt=" Members of Syria's new security forces prepare to depart from the northwestern city of Idlib, as reinforcement for the coastal area on March 8, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, reported that over 1,000 people, including 745 civilians, were killed in the two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and fighters thought to be loyal to the ousted president Bashar al Assad.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-port-city-destroyed-by-massive-rainstorm-13-dead-8835403"></a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-violence-at-least-1-killed-dozens-injured-locals-defy-free-movement-directive-8835440">Manipur violence: At least 1 killed, dozens injured; locals defy free movement directive</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2018/09/12/17470-manipurblockade-20170118050250.jpg" alt=" Manipur violence: At least 1 killed, dozens injured; locals defy free movement directive">At least one protester was killed, and over 40 others, including women and policemen, were injured in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in different parts of Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday (Mar 8), news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-indias-spin-advantage-net-bowler-reveals-kiwis-battle-against-turn-8835509">Champions Trophy: India&rsquo;s spin advantage? Net bowler reveals Kiwis&rsquo; battle against turn</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/22/DsoxlFXz2uy4VA4Ihn2q.png" alt=" IND vs ENG 1st T20I: Varun Chakravarthy takes two wickets in an over Photograph: (X/BCCI) ">
As the Champions Trophy final approaches, India and New Zealand are set to battle for the prestigious title in Dubai on Sunday (March 9). In front of a packed stadium, both cricketing powerhouses will look to script their names in history books.
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WATCH | Canada: Top candidates who could succeed Justin Trudeau as Canada's next Prime Minister
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Good morning! Start your day with WION's news brief.

Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea’s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from jail on Saturday (March 8) ahead of his insurrection trial. Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, reported that over 1,000 people, including 745 civilians, were killed in the two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and fighters thought to be loyal to the ousted president Bashar al Assad. At least one protester was killed, and over 40 others, including women and policemen, were injured in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in different parts of Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday (Mar 8), news agency PTI reported. Click on the headlines to read more South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol released from jail Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea’s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from the jail on Saturday (March 8) ahead of his insurrection trial. Over 1,000 killed, women being forced to 'walk naked': What's happening in Syria? Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, reported that over 1,000 people, including 745 civilians, were killed in the two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and fighters thought to be loyal to the ousted president Bashar al Assad. Manipur violence: At least 1 killed, dozens injured; locals defy free movement directive At least one protester was killed, and over 40 others, including women and policemen, were injured in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in different parts of Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday (Mar 8), news agency PTI reported. Champions Trophy: India’s spin advantage? Net bowler reveals Kiwis’ battle against turn As the Champions Trophy final approaches, India and New Zealand are set to battle for the prestigious title in Dubai on Sunday (March 9). In front of a packed stadium, both cricketing powerhouses will look to script their names in history books. WATCH | Canada: Top candidates who could succeed Justin Trudeau as Canada's next Prime Minister

Morning news brief: South Korea’s impeached Prez Yoon Suk Yeol released from jail; Over 1,000 killed in Syria, and more

Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, claimed that more than 1,000 people, including 745 civilians, were killed in the two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and fighters thought to be loyal to the ousted president Bashar al Assad.&nbsp;
The war monitor said that 745 civilians were killed, mostly in execution style. It said 125 Syrian security forces and 148 Assad loyalists also died. The death toll makes the two days of violence some of the deadliest since Syria's conflict began 14 years ago.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-impeached-prez-yoon-suk-yeol-released-from-jail-8835501">South Korea&rsquo;s impeached Prez Yoon Suk Yeol released from jail</a>
<h2>What's happening in Syria?&nbsp;</h2>
The violent clashes broke out on Thursday (Mar 6) between Syria's new authorities and those who are loyal to the toppled government of Bashar. The fighters ambushed security forces in Jableh, in the coastal Latakia province.&nbsp;
A total of 45 Alawite civilians were killed in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, the observatory reported, adding that they were killed in "executions" carried out by pro-government fighters, which were also accompanied by the "looting of homes and properties".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-port-city-destroyed-by-massive-rainstorm-13-dead-8835403">Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead</a>
The Observatory's figures revealed that the civilian deaths took the overall toll from violence in the region since Thursday to 1,018. The fighting killed 125 members of the new government's security forces and 148 pro-Assad fighters.&nbsp;
To restore order, security forces had deployed to Latakia, as well as Jableh and Baniyas farther south, the official SANA news agency reported.&nbsp;
Defence ministry spokesman Hassan Abdul Ghani said the security forces had "reimposed control" over areas that had seen attacks by Assad loyalists.
"It is strictly forbidden to approach any home or attack anyone inside their homes," he added in a video posted by SANA.
Syrian Education Minister Nazir al-Qadri announced that schools would remain shut on Sunday and Monday in both Latakia and Tartus provinces. Meanwhile, SANA reported a power outage throughout Latakia province due to attacks on the grid by Assad loyalists.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-scottish-golf-resort-vandalised-with-gaza-is-not-for-sale-message-8835227">Trump&rsquo;s Scottish golf resort vandalised with &lsquo;Gaza is not for sale&rsquo; message</a>
<h2>Who are Alawites?&nbsp;</h2>
Latakia region is a former stronghold of the deposed leader. It is the place where many of the minority Alawites, who made up his support base, live. Sunni Muslim gunmen loyal to the government began revenge killings against members of Assad's minority Alawite sect.&nbsp;
The Alawites (also spelt Alawis) are a Shia Muslim minority group native to Syria and Lebanon. They are also known as Nusayris or Ansaris. The Alawite faith originated in the 9th century and is based on Shia Islam, with influences from Christianity, Gnosticism and ancient pagan beliefs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-france-germany-italy-back-arab-counterproposal-to-trumps-plan-to-take-over-gaza-8835213">Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan</a>
The Alawite heartland has been gripped by fear of reprisals for the Assad family's brutal rule, which included widespread torture and disappearances.&nbsp;
"They forcibly brought people down to the streets, then they lined them up and started shooting them," one of the residents of Baniyasin on the west coast of Syria said, as quoted by Sky News.&nbsp;&nbsp;
"They left nobody. They left nobody at all. The scene that I saw was pure horror; it's just indescribable," he said.
Baniyas resident Samir Haidar, 67, told AFP news agency that two of his brothers and his niece were killed by "armed groups" that entered people's homes, adding that there were "foreigners among them".&nbsp;
He managed to escape to a Sunni neighbourhood, but said: "If I had been five minutes late, I would have been killed... we were saved in the last minutes."
On the condition of anonymity, one person even told Sky News that women were being forced to "walk naked" before being shot and a teenage boy being handed a rifle and forced to shoot his family.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Understand the brutal executions and forced displacements in Latakia, a former stronghold of the deposed Assad regime, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, claimed that more than 1,000 people, including 745 civilians, were killed in the two days of clashes between Syrian security forces and fighters thought to be loyal to the ousted president Bashar al Assad. The war monitor said that 745 civilians were killed, mostly in execution style. It said 125 Syrian security forces and 148 Assad loyalists also died. The death toll makes the two days of violence some of the deadliest since Syria's conflict began 14 years ago. Also read: South Korea’s impeached Prez Yoon Suk Yeol released from jail What's happening in Syria? The violent clashes broke out on Thursday (Mar 6) between Syria's new authorities and those who are loyal to the toppled government of Bashar. The fighters ambushed security forces in Jableh, in the coastal Latakia province. A total of 45 Alawite civilians were killed in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, the observatory reported, adding that they were killed in "executions" carried out by pro-government fighters, which were also accompanied by the "looting of homes and properties". Also read: Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead The Observatory's figures revealed that the civilian deaths took the overall toll from violence in the region since Thursday to 1,018. The fighting killed 125 members of the new government's security forces and 148 pro-Assad fighters. To restore order, security forces had deployed to Latakia, as well as Jableh and Baniyas farther south, the official SANA news agency reported. Defence ministry spokesman Hassan Abdul Ghani said the security forces had "reimposed control" over areas that had seen attacks by Assad loyalists. "It is strictly forbidden to approach any home or attack anyone inside their homes," he added in a video posted by SANA. Syrian Education Minister Nazir al-Qadri announced that schools would remain shut on Sunday and Monday in both Latakia and Tartus provinces. Meanwhile, SANA reported a power outage throughout Latakia province due to attacks on the grid by Assad loyalists. Also read: Trump’s Scottish golf resort vandalised with ‘Gaza is not for sale’ message Who are Alawites? Latakia region is a former stronghold of the deposed leader. It is the place where many of the minority Alawites, who made up his support base, live. Sunni Muslim gunmen loyal to the government began revenge killings against members of Assad's minority Alawite sect. The Alawites (also spelt Alawis) are a Shia Muslim minority group native to Syria and Lebanon. They are also known as Nusayris or Ansaris. The Alawite faith originated in the 9th century and is based on Shia Islam, with influences from Christianity, Gnosticism and ancient pagan beliefs. Also read: Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan The Alawite heartland has been gripped by fear of reprisals for the Assad family's brutal rule, which included widespread torture and disappearances. "They forcibly brought people down to the streets, then they lined them up and started shooting them," one of the residents of Baniyasin on the west coast of Syria said, as quoted by Sky News. "They left nobody. They left nobody at all. The scene that I saw was pure horror; it's just indescribable," he said. Baniyas resident Samir Haidar, 67, told AFP news agency that two of his brothers and his niece were killed by "armed groups" that entered people's homes, adding that there were "foreigners among them". He managed to escape to a Sunni neighbourhood, but said: "If I had been five minutes late, I would have been killed... we were saved in the last minutes." On the condition of anonymity, one person even told Sky News that women were being forced to "walk naked" before being shot and a teenage boy being handed a rifle and forced to shoot his family. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 1,000 killed, women being forced to 'walk naked': What's happening in Syria?

Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea&rsquo;s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from jail on Saturday (March 8) ahead of his insurrection trial.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-suspended-president-yoon-freed-from-detention-court-cancels-arrest-warrant-8829790">South Korea court cancels Yoon's arrest warrant yet impeached president remains in custody</a>
Yoon was seen waving at his supporters after walking out of the detention centre. He was seen bowing down to people present there shouting his name and waving the South Korean and US flags.
WATCH: South Korea: Yoon awaits judgment on validity of impeachment in separate trial
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Yoon appreciated the "courage and decision by the Seoul central district court to correct illegality&rdquo;, said a statement from his lawyers.&nbsp; The impeached president expressed his gratitude towards his supporters in the statement and said that those who were on hunger strike against his impeachment must end it now.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-yoon-awaits-judgement-on-validity-of-impeachment-in-separate-trial-8835482">South Korea: Yoon awaits judgement on validity of impeachment in separate trial</a>
As many as 55,000 people rallied in support of Yoon on the day of his release in Seoul while 32,500 people demonstrated against him near the court which cancelled his arrest.&nbsp;
But a larger picture showed that majority of South Koreans were against Yoon as 60 per cent responders said he should be removed from the presidential office.
The other 35 per cent said otherwise, a Gallup Korea poll conducted on Friday said.&nbsp;
Also read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoon-says-s-korea-was-facing-existential-crisis-when-he-declared-martial-law-8756112">Yoon says South Korea was facing &lsquo;existential crisis&rsquo; when he declared martial law</a>
On Friday (March 7), the arrest warrant against Yoon was cancelled by a court after accepting his legal team's request to cancel his arrest and cleared him for release.&nbsp;
Although his release was initially denied, he was eventually freed.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | Yoon was seen waving at his supporters after walking out of the detention center. He was seen bowing down to people present there who were shouting his name and were waving the South Korean and US flags.

Just a day after a Seoul court cancelled his arrest, South Korea’s impeached conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was released from jail on Saturday (March 8) ahead of his insurrection trial. Also read: South Korea court cancels Yoon's arrest warrant yet impeached president remains in custody Yoon was seen waving at his supporters after walking out of the detention centre. He was seen bowing down to people present there shouting his name and waving the South Korean and US flags. WATCH: South Korea: Yoon awaits judgment on validity of impeachment in separate trial Yoon appreciated the "courage and decision by the Seoul central district court to correct illegality”, said a statement from his lawyers. The impeached president expressed his gratitude towards his supporters in the statement and said that those who were on hunger strike against his impeachment must end it now. WATCH: South Korea: Yoon awaits judgement on validity of impeachment in separate trial As many as 55,000 people rallied in support of Yoon on the day of his release in Seoul while 32,500 people demonstrated against him near the court which cancelled his arrest. But a larger picture showed that majority of South Koreans were against Yoon as 60 per cent responders said he should be removed from the presidential office. The other 35 per cent said otherwise, a Gallup Korea poll conducted on Friday said. Also read: Yoon says South Korea was facing ‘existential crisis’ when he declared martial law On Friday (March 7), the arrest warrant against Yoon was cancelled by a court after accepting his legal team's request to cancel his arrest and cleared him for release. Although his release was initially denied, he was eventually freed. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol released from jail

Argentina's port city of Bahia Blanca has been "destroyed" after being pummeled by a year's worth of rain in a matter of hours, killing 13 and driving hundreds from their homes, authorities said Saturday.
Two young girls -- who local media said are aged four and one -- were missing after possibly being swept away by floodwaters from Friday's storm.
The deluge left hospital rooms underwater, turned neighborhoods into islands and cut electricity to swaths of the city. National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said Bahia Blanca was "destroyed."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-france-germany-italy-back-arab-counterproposal-to-trumps-plan-to-take-over-gaza-8835213">Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan</a>
The death toll rose to 13 on Saturday, up from 10 on Friday, authorities said.
The mayor's office said more casualties were possible in this city of 350,000 residents, located 600 kilometers (370 miles) southwest of the capital Buenos Aires.
The missing girls "may have been carried away by the water," Bullrich told Radio Mitre.
At least five of the victims died on flooded roadways, possibly after being trapped in their cars by fast-rising water.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-scottish-golf-resort-vandalised-with-gaza-is-not-for-sale-message-8835227">Trump&rsquo;s Scottish golf resort vandalised with &lsquo;Gaza is not for sale&rsquo; message</a>
The storm forced the evacuation of Jose Penna hospital, with news footage and video shared on social media showing nurses and other medical staff carrying babies to safety. They were later assisted by the army.
The downpour, which began Friday morning, dumped more than 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) of rain in the area in just eight hours, "practically what Bahia Blanca gets in an entire year," provincial security minister Javier Alonso said.
"This is unprecedented," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-backing-israel-against-monstrous-hamas-after-us-prez-warns-hell-to-pay-8835194">Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against &lsquo;monstrous&rsquo; Hamas after US prez warns &lsquo;hell to pay&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Scenes of desolation&nbsp;</h2>
Local media showed images of flooded shops and reported overnight looting.
The government has authorized emergency reconstruction aid of 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million at the official exchange rate).&nbsp;
The storm left much of the surrounding coastal area without power. At one point, city officials in Bahia Blanco suspended electricity due to the huge amount of water in the streets.
The number of evacuees on Saturday stood at 850, down from a peak of 1,321, according to the mayor's office.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-police-shut-down-big-ben-area-as-barefoot-protester-climbs-famous-clock-tower-8835208">London Police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower</a>
Bahia Blanca has suffered past weather-related disasters, including a storm in December 2023 that claimed 13 lives.&nbsp;It caused houses to collapse and provoked widespread infrastructure damage.
Heavy rains also fell Friday night in the resort town of Mar del Plata, with officials suspending evening activities and urging people to remain indoors.
Buenos Aires was also hit by the storm but suffered no major damage.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Emergency aid of billion pesos was authorized for reconstruction as the city grapples with unprecedented rainfall and its aftermath, impacting thousands of residents.

Argentina's port city of Bahia Blanca has been "destroyed" after being pummeled by a year's worth of rain in a matter of hours, killing 13 and driving hundreds from their homes, authorities said Saturday. Two young girls -- who local media said are aged four and one -- were missing after possibly being swept away by floodwaters from Friday's storm. The deluge left hospital rooms underwater, turned neighborhoods into islands and cut electricity to swaths of the city. National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich said Bahia Blanca was "destroyed." Also read: Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan The death toll rose to 13 on Saturday, up from 10 on Friday, authorities said. The mayor's office said more casualties were possible in this city of 350,000 residents, located 600 kilometers (370 miles) southwest of the capital Buenos Aires. The missing girls "may have been carried away by the water," Bullrich told Radio Mitre. At least five of the victims died on flooded roadways, possibly after being trapped in their cars by fast-rising water. Also read: Trump’s Scottish golf resort vandalised with ‘Gaza is not for sale’ message The storm forced the evacuation of Jose Penna hospital, with news footage and video shared on social media showing nurses and other medical staff carrying babies to safety. They were later assisted by the army. The downpour, which began Friday morning, dumped more than 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) of rain in the area in just eight hours, "practically what Bahia Blanca gets in an entire year," provincial security minister Javier Alonso said. "This is unprecedented," he added. Also read: Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against ‘monstrous’ Hamas after US prez warns ‘hell to pay’ Scenes of desolation Local media showed images of flooded shops and reported overnight looting. The government has authorized emergency reconstruction aid of 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million at the official exchange rate). The storm left much of the surrounding coastal area without power. At one point, city officials in Bahia Blanco suspended electricity due to the huge amount of water in the streets. The number of evacuees on Saturday stood at 850, down from a peak of 1,321, according to the mayor's office. Also read: London Police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower Bahia Blanca has suffered past weather-related disasters, including a storm in December 2023 that claimed 13 lives. It caused houses to collapse and provoked widespread infrastructure damage. Heavy rains also fell Friday night in the resort town of Mar del Plata, with officials suspending evening activities and urging people to remain indoors. Buenos Aires was also hit by the storm but suffered no major damage. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead

US President Donald Trump's prized Turnberry golf resort in Scotland has been vandalised by protesters who sprayed "GAZA IS NOT 4 SALE" in huge white letters on the lawn.
The activists also damaged greens and sprayed blood-red paint over the luxury resort's clubhouse overnight on Saturday.
The Palestine Action group said it was a "direct response to the US administration's stated intent to ethnically cleanse Gaza".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-backing-israel-against-monstrous-hamas-after-us-prez-warns-hell-to-pay-8835194">Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay'</a>
Trump sparked outrage last month when he suggested the US "take over" Gaza and turn it into the "Riviera of the Middle East", while forcing its Palestinian inhabitants to relocate to Egypt or Jordan.
The activists cited an AI-generated video the US president shared online last week, which showed the razed Palestinian territory rebuilt as a Trump-branded seaside resort.
One scene showed Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sipping cocktails in swimsuits by a pool.
"Whilst Trump attempts to treat Gaza as his property, he should know his own property is within reach," Palestine Action said on social media.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-police-shut-down-big-ben-area-as-barefoot-protester-climbs-famous-clock-tower-8835208">London police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower</a>
Police Scotland told AFP it was investigating after receiving a report of damage at around 0440 GMT on Saturday.
Last week, the United States said it had approved the sale of more than $3 billion in munitions, bulldozers and related equipment to Israel, which has used American-made weapons to devastating effect in Gaza.
The Turnberry property in southwest Scotland is one of two resorts that Trump owns in the country, his mother's ancestral home.
A spokesman for Trump Turnberry said: "This was a childish, criminal act but the incredible team at Trump Turnberry will ensure it does not impact business.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-france-germany-italy-back-arab-counterproposal-to-trumps-plan-to-take-over-gaza-8835213">Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's plan to take over Gaza</a>
"Turnberry is a national treasure and will continue to be the number one beacon of luxury and excellence in the world of golf."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The activists sprayed "GAZA IS NOT 4 SALE" in huge white letters on the lawn and also damaged greens and sprayed blood-red paint over the luxury resort's clubhouse overnight on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump's prized Turnberry golf resort in Scotland has been vandalised by protesters who sprayed "GAZA IS NOT 4 SALE" in huge white letters on the lawn. The activists also damaged greens and sprayed blood-red paint over the luxury resort's clubhouse overnight on Saturday. The Palestine Action group said it was a "direct response to the US administration's stated intent to ethnically cleanse Gaza". Also read: Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay' Trump sparked outrage last month when he suggested the US "take over" Gaza and turn it into the "Riviera of the Middle East", while forcing its Palestinian inhabitants to relocate to Egypt or Jordan. The activists cited an AI-generated video the US president shared online last week, which showed the razed Palestinian territory rebuilt as a Trump-branded seaside resort. One scene showed Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sipping cocktails in swimsuits by a pool. "Whilst Trump attempts to treat Gaza as his property, he should know his own property is within reach," Palestine Action said on social media. Also read: London police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower Police Scotland told AFP it was investigating after receiving a report of damage at around 0440 GMT on Saturday. Last week, the United States said it had approved the sale of more than $3 billion in munitions, bulldozers and related equipment to Israel, which has used American-made weapons to devastating effect in Gaza. The Turnberry property in southwest Scotland is one of two resorts that Trump owns in the country, his mother's ancestral home. A spokesman for Trump Turnberry said: "This was a childish, criminal act but the incredible team at Trump Turnberry will ensure it does not impact business. Also read: Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's plan to take over Gaza "Turnberry is a national treasure and will continue to be the number one beacon of luxury and excellence in the world of golf." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump’s Scottish golf resort vandalised with ‘Gaza is not for sale’ message

International support grew on Saturday for an Arab counterproposal to US President Donald Trump's plan to take over Gaza and displace its residents, with Islamic nations endorsing it and European governments giving their backing.
Unlike the Trump plan, the Arab proposal aims to rebuild Gaza without displacing the territory's 2.4 million inhabitants, who endured more than 15 months of devastating conflict before a fragile ceasefire took effect on January 19.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-police-shut-down-big-ben-area-as-barefoot-protester-climbs-famous-clock-tower-8835208">London police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower</a>
The 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation formally adopted the counterproposal at an emergency meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, three days after the Arab League ratified it at a summit in Cairo.
Britain, France, Germany, and Italy gave their backing in a joint statement by their foreign ministers, hailing it as a "realistic path" for rebuilding war-torn Gaza without uprooting its Palestinian inhabitants.
The OIC "adopts the plan... on the early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza", the Islamic bloc said in a statement.
It urged "the international community and international and regional funding institutions to swiftly provide the necessary support".
Trump triggered global outrage when he suggested the US "take over" Gaza and turn it into the "Riviera of the Middle East", while forcing its Palestinian inhabitants to relocate to Egypt or Jordan.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-backing-israel-against-monstrous-hamas-after-us-prez-warns-hell-to-pay-8835194">Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay'</a>
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty welcomed the OIC endorsement and said he now hoped to gain support from the wider international community, including the US.
"The next step is for the plan to become an international plan through adoption by the European Union and international parties such as Japan, Russia, China and others," Abdelatty said.
"This is what we will seek and we have contact with all parties, including the American party."
The four European governments welcomed the plan's proposal for Gaza to return to the control of the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority after nearly two decades of Hamas rule.
"We are clear that Hamas must neither govern Gaza nor be a threat to Israel any more," they said in their statement.
"We commend the serious efforts of all involved stakeholders and appreciate the important signal the Arab states have sent by jointly developing this recovery and reconstruction plan," they added.
However, the Egyptian proposal has already been cold-shouldered by Israel and the United States.
It "does not meet the expectations" of Washington, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters on Thursday.
Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff gave a more positive reaction, however, calling the plan a "good-faith first step from the Egyptians".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Britain, France, Germany and Italy gave their backing in a joint statement by their foreign ministers, hailing it as a "realistic path" for rebuilding war-torn Gaza without uprooting its Palestinian inhabitants.

International support grew on Saturday for an Arab counterproposal to US President Donald Trump's plan to take over Gaza and displace its residents, with Islamic nations endorsing it and European governments giving their backing. Unlike the Trump plan, the Arab proposal aims to rebuild Gaza without displacing the territory's 2.4 million inhabitants, who endured more than 15 months of devastating conflict before a fragile ceasefire took effect on January 19. Also read: London police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower The 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation formally adopted the counterproposal at an emergency meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, three days after the Arab League ratified it at a summit in Cairo. Britain, France, Germany, and Italy gave their backing in a joint statement by their foreign ministers, hailing it as a "realistic path" for rebuilding war-torn Gaza without uprooting its Palestinian inhabitants. The OIC "adopts the plan... on the early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza", the Islamic bloc said in a statement. It urged "the international community and international and regional funding institutions to swiftly provide the necessary support". Trump triggered global outrage when he suggested the US "take over" Gaza and turn it into the "Riviera of the Middle East", while forcing its Palestinian inhabitants to relocate to Egypt or Jordan. Also read: Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay' Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty welcomed the OIC endorsement and said he now hoped to gain support from the wider international community, including the US. "The next step is for the plan to become an international plan through adoption by the European Union and international parties such as Japan, Russia, China and others," Abdelatty said. "This is what we will seek and we have contact with all parties, including the American party." The four European governments welcomed the plan's proposal for Gaza to return to the control of the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority after nearly two decades of Hamas rule. "We are clear that Hamas must neither govern Gaza nor be a threat to Israel any more," they said in their statement. "We commend the serious efforts of all involved stakeholders and appreciate the important signal the Arab states have sent by jointly developing this recovery and reconstruction plan," they added. However, the Egyptian proposal has already been cold-shouldered by Israel and the United States. It "does not meet the expectations" of Washington, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters on Thursday. Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff gave a more positive reaction, however, calling the plan a "good-faith first step from the Egyptians". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Britain, France, Germany, Italy back Arab counterproposal to Trump's Gaza takeover plan

UK police closed the area around Big Ben in London on Saturday after a man holding a Palestinian flag climbed up the tower housing the famous clock and bell.
The man had ascended several metres (feet) and was perched barefoot on a ledge of the historic structure, whose official name is Elizabeth Tower, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.
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Crowds looked on from beyond a police cordon, while emergency vehicles were deployed in the area and Westminster Bridge was closed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-backing-israel-against-monstrous-hamas-after-us-prez-warns-hell-to-pay-8835194">Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay'</a>
Police said they were first alerted "to a man climbing up the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament" shortly after 0700 GMT.
At around 1000 GMT, an emergency team used a fire truck lift and a megaphone to try to speak with the man.
But he was still there several hours later.
"Officers are at the scene working to bring the incident to a safe conclusion," London's Metropolitan Police force told AFP.
"They are being assisted by the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The man had ascended several metres (feet) and was perched barefoot on a ledge of the historic structure, whose official name is Elizabeth Tower, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.

UK police closed the area around Big Ben in London on Saturday after a man holding a Palestinian flag climbed up the tower housing the famous clock and bell. The man had ascended several metres (feet) and was perched barefoot on a ledge of the historic structure, whose official name is Elizabeth Tower, according to an AFP journalist at the scene. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) Crowds looked on from beyond a police cordon, while emergency vehicles were deployed in the area and Westminster Bridge was closed. Also read: Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay' Police said they were first alerted "to a man climbing up the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament" shortly after 0700 GMT. At around 1000 GMT, an emergency team used a fire truck lift and a megaphone to try to speak with the man. But he was still there several hours later. "Officers are at the scene working to bring the incident to a safe conclusion," London's Metropolitan Police force told AFP. "They are being assisted by the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

London Police shut down Big Ben area as barefoot protester climbs famous clock tower

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (March 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas.&nbsp;
This comes after Palestinian militant group Hamas said that they held direct talks with a US envoy on freeing hostages held in Gaza. While Israel said that they were unaware of progress in talks.&nbsp;
However, on Saturday, Israeli PM Netanyahu took to X, saying in a post, "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50-freed-israeli-hostages-urge-netanyahu-to-implement-gaza-deal-in-full-8833789">Over 50 freed Israeli hostages urge Netanyahu to implement Gaza deal &lsquo;in full&rsquo;</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists. <a href="https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH">https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH</a>
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1898412767230497061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a>
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</blockquote>
Netanyahu, in his thank-you post to Trump, reshared a post by Trump in which he again warned Hamas that if it doesn't free the hostages it is holding in Gaza, "there will be hell to pay later".&nbsp;
Trump also shared photos of his White House meeting with eight released Israeli hostages.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-key-confidant-lashed-out-at-us-envoy-for-holding-direct-talks-with-hamas-8832212">Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas</a>
On Friday, Israel Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Netanyahu's top confidant "lashed out" at US hostage envoy Adam Boehler after Israel learned that Trump aide held a meeting with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss the release of American hostages from Gaza.
Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages from Gaza, a Western official told The Times of Israel.
Dermer lashed out at Boehler, during a phone call held on Tuesday, for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five American hostages without Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consent, the official said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-negotiations-with-hamas-helping-israel-because-were-talking-about-israeli-hostages-8829353">Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages'</a>&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Israeli PM Netanyahu took to X, "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (March 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas. This comes after Palestinian militant group Hamas said that they held direct talks with a US envoy on freeing hostages held in Gaza. While Israel said that they were unaware of progress in talks. However, on Saturday, Israeli PM Netanyahu took to X, saying in a post, "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists." Also read: Over 50 freed Israeli hostages urge Netanyahu to implement Gaza deal ‘in full’ Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists. https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) March 8, 2025 Netanyahu, in his thank-you post to Trump, reshared a post by Trump in which he again warned Hamas that if it doesn't free the hostages it is holding in Gaza, "there will be hell to pay later". Trump also shared photos of his White House meeting with eight released Israeli hostages. Also read: Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas On Friday, Israel Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Netanyahu's top confidant "lashed out" at US hostage envoy Adam Boehler after Israel learned that Trump aide held a meeting with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss the release of American hostages from Gaza. Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages from Gaza, a Western official told The Times of Israel. Dermer lashed out at Boehler, during a phone call held on Tuesday, for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five American hostages without Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consent, the official said. Also read: Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We’re talking about Israeli hostages' (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against ‘monstrous’ Hamas after US prez warns ‘hell to pay’

Donald Trump&rsquo;s newly appointed FBI Director, Kash Patel, has made a series of unusual requests that would have been unthinkable in previous administrations, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
Patel, a close ally of Trump, was confirmed by the narrowest margin in the US Senate. Shortly after taking office, he reportedly asked for direct phone lines to Trump from both his office and home, bypassing the Department of Justice's usual chain of communication.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khamenei-condemns-bullying-after-us-president-donald-trumps-military-action-threat-against-iran-8835094">'They aim at domination': Khamenei condemns &lsquo;bullying&rsquo; after Trump&rsquo;s military action threat against Iran</a>
"Senior FBI officials can&rsquo;t bring cellphones into their offices given the security risks. A secure landline already sits on the desks of many top FBI officials that can connect them to the White House switchboard, the CIA, and other national security agencies, but Patel asked how to connect directly with Trump&rsquo;s Oval Office," the report said.
His first move as director was to remove all existing executive staffers from the seventh floor, where his office is located. Patel also explored "an arrangement outside the traditional chain of command in which the FBI director reports to the deputy attorney general, and the president usually talks only to the attorney general," according to the Journal.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-kash-patel-confirmed-as-fbi-director-donald-trump-senate-confirmation-vote-8741481">'You will regret this to your&nbsp;grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director</a>
<h2>Patel looked into hiring his own private security detail</h2>
Additionally, Patel has reportedly looked into hiring his own private security detail, despite already having FBI agents assigned for his protection. The report added, "Patel asked about having a separate detail, in an apparent suggestion that he didn&rsquo;t fully trust the FBI agents, according to people familiar with the request."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dei-executive-order-pregnant-people-among-words-banned-under-trumps-woke-crackdown-8834762">&lsquo;Free speech&rsquo; but with limits: &lsquo;Equality&rsquo;, &lsquo;pregnant people&rsquo; among words banned under Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;woke&rsquo; crackdown</a>
Historically, J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI&rsquo;s first director, maintained a direct phone line to the president from his home, but directors since then have deliberately sought to keep a clear separation between the FBI and the White House, Yale history professor Beverly Gage told The Wall Street Journal.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/highly-unpredictable-how-trumps-obsession-made-greenlands-election-the-most-important-in-its-history-8834922">&lsquo;Highly unpredictable&rsquo;: How Trump&rsquo;s obsession made Greenland&rsquo;s election the most important&nbsp;in&nbsp;its&nbsp;history</a>
They aimed to present "the FBI as the nonpartisan, nonpolitical institution and the president as something else," Gage said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Patel, a close ally of Trump, was confirmed by the narrowest margin in the US Senate. Shortly after taking office, he reportedly asked for direct phone lines to Trump from both his office and home.

Donald Trump’s newly appointed FBI Director, Kash Patel, has made a series of unusual requests that would have been unthinkable in previous administrations, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Patel, a close ally of Trump, was confirmed by the narrowest margin in the US Senate. Shortly after taking office, he reportedly asked for direct phone lines to Trump from both his office and home, bypassing the Department of Justice's usual chain of communication. Also read: 'They aim at domination': Khamenei condemns ‘bullying’ after Trump’s military action threat against Iran "Senior FBI officials can’t bring cellphones into their offices given the security risks. A secure landline already sits on the desks of many top FBI officials that can connect them to the White House switchboard, the CIA, and other national security agencies, but Patel asked how to connect directly with Trump’s Oval Office," the report said. His first move as director was to remove all existing executive staffers from the seventh floor, where his office is located. Patel also explored "an arrangement outside the traditional chain of command in which the FBI director reports to the deputy attorney general, and the president usually talks only to the attorney general," according to the Journal. Also read: 'You will regret this to your grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director Patel looked into hiring his own private security detail Additionally, Patel has reportedly looked into hiring his own private security detail, despite already having FBI agents assigned for his protection. The report added, "Patel asked about having a separate detail, in an apparent suggestion that he didn’t fully trust the FBI agents, according to people familiar with the request." Also read: ‘Free speech’ but with limits: ‘Equality’, ‘pregnant people’ among words banned under Trump’s ‘woke’ crackdown Historically, J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI’s first director, maintained a direct phone line to the president from his home, but directors since then have deliberately sought to keep a clear separation between the FBI and the White House, Yale history professor Beverly Gage told The Wall Street Journal. Also read: ‘Highly unpredictable’: How Trump’s obsession made Greenland’s election the most important in its history They aimed to present "the FBI as the nonpartisan, nonpolitical institution and the president as something else," Gage said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘He didn’t fully trust FBI agents’: FBI Director Kash Patel wants private security and direct hotline to Trump

Russia's ruling party 'United Russia' has been facing criticism for gifting meat grinders to mothers of soldiers killed in the war with Ukraine.&nbsp;
Russian President Vladimir Putin's party in the northern Murmansk region, posted photos on social media, showing officials smiling as they visited bereaved mothers, giving them gifts including flowers and meat grinders on International Women's Day.&nbsp;
The United Russia party posted on social media, thanking the "mums" for their "strength of spirit and the love you put into bringing up your sons&rdquo;, AFP reported.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-most-male-actors-deal-with-russia-war-ukrainian-theatre-rebuilds-itself-with-all-female-cast-8834831">As most male actors deal with Russia war, Ukrainian theatre rebuilds itself with all-female cast</a>
<h2>'Shameful, inappropriate'</h2>
While many people criticised the gift, calling the gesture "shameful" and "inappropriate".&nbsp;
However, as the party faced backlash, they immediately started defending their gift. The Party's local branch in the town of Polyarniye Zori said that those criticising were callously making "provocative interpretations" of the gift, according to AFP.&nbsp;
Moreover, Mayor Maxim Chengayev, who participated in the handover of gifts, said that meat grinders were not originally intended to be included, but they were included after one woman asked.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-putin-did-what-anybody-would-do-after-russias-massive-strike-on-ukraine-8832593">Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine</a>
&ldquo;We, of course, could not say no,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
Later, giving proof of their defence, the local party posted a video, showing a soldier's mother awkwardly thanking the party for the gifts and confirming that she had asked for a meat grinder because she needed one.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I wanted to buy [the meat grinder] for myself, but you gifted me one just in time,&rdquo; the woman said on camera, according to The Moscow Times. &ldquo;I asked you for it, in principle.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shares-intelligence-with-ukraine-for-defence-not-for-attacks-on-russia-how-crucial-it-is-for-kyiv-8834121">US shares intelligence with Ukraine for defence, not for attacks on Russia. How crucial it is for Kyiv?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The United Russia party posted on social media, thanking the "mums" for their "strength of spirit and the love you put into bringing up your sons”, AFP reported.

Russia's ruling party 'United Russia' has been facing criticism for gifting meat grinders to mothers of soldiers killed in the war with Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin's party in the northern Murmansk region, posted photos on social media, showing officials smiling as they visited bereaved mothers, giving them gifts including flowers and meat grinders on International Women's Day. The United Russia party posted on social media, thanking the "mums" for their "strength of spirit and the love you put into bringing up your sons”, AFP reported. Also read: As most male actors deal with Russia war, Ukrainian theatre rebuilds itself with all-female cast 'Shameful, inappropriate' While many people criticised the gift, calling the gesture "shameful" and "inappropriate". However, as the party faced backlash, they immediately started defending their gift. The Party's local branch in the town of Polyarniye Zori said that those criticising were callously making "provocative interpretations" of the gift, according to AFP. Moreover, Mayor Maxim Chengayev, who participated in the handover of gifts, said that meat grinders were not originally intended to be included, but they were included after one woman asked. Also read: Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine “We, of course, could not say no,” he said. Later, giving proof of their defence, the local party posted a video, showing a soldier's mother awkwardly thanking the party for the gifts and confirming that she had asked for a meat grinder because she needed one. “I wanted to buy [the meat grinder] for myself, but you gifted me one just in time,” the woman said on camera, according to The Moscow Times. “I asked you for it, in principle.” Also read: US shares intelligence with Ukraine for defence, not for attacks on Russia. How crucial it is for Kyiv? (With inputs from agencies)

‘Shameful’: Putin’s party slammed for gifting ‘meat grinder’ to mothers of dead soldiers on Women’s Day

Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Saturday (March 8) slammed&nbsp;what he called &ldquo;bullying tactics&rdquo; following US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Trump&rsquo;s</a> latest warnings of potential military action against Tehran.
Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with Iranian officials, Khamenei dismissed calls for negotiations, arguing they were merely a means for foreign powers to assert control.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-strokes-trump-hints-at-final-moments-with-iran-after-his-letter-to-khamenei-gets-lost-in-mail-8832335" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail'</a>
"Some bully governments&mdash;I really don't know of any more appropriate term for some foreign figures and leaders than the word bullying&mdash;insist on negotiations. Their negotiations are not aimed at solving problems, they aim at domination," Khamenei said. His remarks came a day after Trump warned that action against Iran could happen soon if it refused to engage in talks over its nuclear programme.
<h2>Trump hints at imminent action</h2>
Trump on Friday suggested that a confrontation with Iran might be near. "Something is going to happen very soon," he told reporters in the Oval Office, without providing specifics. "We&rsquo;re down to final strokes with Iran. That&rsquo;s going to be an interesting time, and we&rsquo;ll see what happens," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-ukraine-is-yesterdays-afghan-did-irans-khamenei-predict-us-treatment-of-zelensky-3-years-back-8769497">'Today&rsquo;s Ukraine is yesterday&rsquo;s Afghan': Did Iran's Khamenei predict US' treatment of Zelensky&nbsp;3&nbsp;years&nbsp;back?</a>
Trump added, "We&rsquo;re down to final moments. We can&rsquo;t let them have a nuclear weapon."
"It&rsquo;s an interesting time in the history of the world, but we have a situation with Iran that something&rsquo;s going to happen very soon&mdash;very, very soon," he said.
Despite hinting at military action, Trump also revealed that he had sent a letter to Khamenei, urging Iran to negotiate over its nuclear programme. However, Tehran has maintained that talks will only be possible if the US lifts its sanctions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-warns-his-government-against-negotiating-with-us-says-it-would-be-unwise-8698844">Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise'</a>
"I've written them a letter, saying I hope you're going to negotiate because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them. You can't let them have a nuclear weapon," Trump said.
Meanwhile, Iran&rsquo;s mission to the United Nations said, "We have not received such a letter so far."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with Iranian officials, Khamenei dismissed calls for negotiations, arguing they were merely a means for foreign powers to assert control.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Saturday (March 8) slammed what he called “bullying tactics” following US President Donald Trump’s latest warnings of potential military action against Tehran. Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with Iranian officials, Khamenei dismissed calls for negotiations, arguing they were merely a means for foreign powers to assert control. Also read: 'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail' "Some bully governments—I really don't know of any more appropriate term for some foreign figures and leaders than the word bullying—insist on negotiations. Their negotiations are not aimed at solving problems, they aim at domination," Khamenei said. His remarks came a day after Trump warned that action against Iran could happen soon if it refused to engage in talks over its nuclear programme. Trump hints at imminent action Trump on Friday suggested that a confrontation with Iran might be near. "Something is going to happen very soon," he told reporters in the Oval Office, without providing specifics. "We’re down to final strokes with Iran. That’s going to be an interesting time, and we’ll see what happens," he added. Also read: 'Today’s Ukraine is yesterday’s Afghan': Did Iran's Khamenei predict US' treatment of Zelensky 3 years back? Trump added, "We’re down to final moments. We can’t let them have a nuclear weapon." "It’s an interesting time in the history of the world, but we have a situation with Iran that something’s going to happen very soon—very, very soon," he said. Despite hinting at military action, Trump also revealed that he had sent a letter to Khamenei, urging Iran to negotiate over its nuclear programme. However, Tehran has maintained that talks will only be possible if the US lifts its sanctions. Also read: Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise' "I've written them a letter, saying I hope you're going to negotiate because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them. You can't let them have a nuclear weapon," Trump said. Meanwhile, Iran’s mission to the United Nations said, "We have not received such a letter so far." (With inputs from agencies)

‘They aim at domination’: Khamenei condemns ‘bullying’ after Trump’s military action threat against Iran

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Russia's latest missile attacks on Dobropillya, located in Ukraine&rsquo;s eastern Donetsk region, which claimed at least 12 lives. He said that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary.&nbsp;
In other news, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday announced that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 every month to women. Under the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana, a budget of ₹5,100 crore has been allocated for the initiative.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/everything-that-helps-putin-must-collapse-zelensky-says-russias-goals-unchanged-after-airstrike-kills-12-8834113" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Everything that helps Putin must collapse&rsquo;: Zelensky says &lsquo;Russia&rsquo;s goals unchanged&rsquo; after airstrike kills 12</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/24/77v6PB1lY4hjHCPjB5y0.jpg" alt=" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had proposed 'all for all' POW swap as 'start' of ending the war Photograph: (AFP) ">
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's latest missile attacks, which claimed at least 12 lives, adding that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-womens-day-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-approves-2500-monthly-aid-for-women-aaps-atishi-says-still-waiting-8834282" rel="dofollow">On Women's Day, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta approves ₹2,500 monthly aid for women; AAP's Atishi says &lsquo;still waiting&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/19/nVTGwXOlX3z4ukuVfDID.png" alt=" Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Photograph: (PTI) ">
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Saturday (8 March 2025) that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 per month to women.
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dei-executive-order-pregnant-people-among-words-banned-under-trumps-woke-crackdown-8834762">&lsquo;Free speech&rsquo; but with limits: 'Equality', 'pregnant people' among words banned under Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;woke&rsquo; crackdown</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/04/alQtEeZ0x3mN18nP9jtr.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on March 3, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
One of President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump&rsquo;s</a>&nbsp;first actions upon returning to office in January was a sweeping removal of &ldquo;woke&rdquo; language across federal government websites. According to an investigation by The New York Times, this directive has led to hundreds of terms being erased or avoided in official communications.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-most-male-actors-deal-with-russia-war-ukrainian-theatre-rebuilds-itself-with-all-female-cast-8834831" rel="dofollow">As most male actors deal with Russia war, Ukrainian theatre rebuilds itself with all-female cast</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/08/jcE82BrwEGagYawWMOo8.png" alt=" Russia-Ukraine war Photograph: (Reuters) ">
With more than three years of the Russia-Ukraine war, the male Ukrainian actors have also joined the war, fighting for their country as Moscow continues to attack Kyiv. Ruslana Ostapko, a 43-year-old Ukrainian actor took to the stage, wearing a black leather jacket and with a moustache painted on her face. She has been performing in multiple traditionally male roles in a recent production of the Chernihiv Regional Youth Theater.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-women-including-israeli-tourist-raped-male-friend-killed-while-stargazing-in-karnatakas-hampi-two-arrested-8834771" rel="dofollow">Two women including Israeli tourist raped, male friend killed while stargazing in Karnataka's Hampi; two arrested</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/11/25125-rape5-20170702033230.jpg" alt=" Representative image: Sexual Assault Photograph: (Others) " style="width: 1280px;">
Two women, including an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner, were gang-raped near Hampi in Karnataka on Thursday night. One of the male tourists who was accompanying them was found dead on Saturday morning.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/everything-that-helps-putin-must-collapse-zelensky-says-russias-goals-unchanged-after-airstrike-kills-12-8834113" rel="dofollow">'They aim at domination': Khamenei condemns &lsquo;bullying&rsquo; after Trump&rsquo;s military action threat against Iran</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/10/28/462971-ayatollah-ali-khamenei.png" alt=" Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Photograph: Reuters ">
Iran&rsquo;s&nbsp;Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday (Marc)&nbsp;criticised what he called&nbsp;&ldquo;bullying tactics&rdquo;&nbsp;following US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump&rsquo;s</a>&nbsp;latest warnings of potential military action against Tehran.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youre-the-troublemaker-trump-snarks-at-reporter-for-asking-question-about-musk-rubio-clash-8834343" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;You&rsquo;re the troublemaker&rsquo;: Trump snarks at reporter for asking question about Musk-Rubio clash</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/03/gLGGZpQRxdyazOjvmri0.jpg" alt=" File photo of Donald Trump. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Hours after the US media reported about some heated exchange between Elon Musk and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a cabinet meeting, US President Donald Trump denied the reports of a clash between his two Cabinet members.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-backing-israel-against-monstrous-hamas-after-us-prez-warns-hell-to-pay-8835194" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay'</a>
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (March 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas.&nbsp;
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Ace India batter Virat Kohli suffered a blow to his knee during training ahead of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-free-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-final-india-vs-new-zealand-live-online-8833382" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India-New Zealand Champions Trophy final in Dubai</a>&nbsp;on Sunday (Mar 9). While facing a seamer in the nets at the ICC Academy, Kohli was hit on his knee, prompting him to drop guards and stop training, per reports. The Indian physio ran towards him and applied a spray, wrapping the injured area with a bandage.
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Following the leak of concept art for&nbsp;Avengers: Doomsday, several alleged plot details have surfaced online. The most intriguing rumour so far suggests that Robert Downey Jr. is set to portray Doctor Doom, a character who, much like Thanos, sees himself as a hero and is willing to sacrifice entire universes to save his own.

World: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday announced that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 every month to women

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Russia's latest missile attacks on Dobropillya, located in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, which claimed at least 12 lives. He said that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary. In other news, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday announced that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 every month to women. Under the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana, a budget of ₹5,100 crore has been allocated for the initiative. Click on the headlines for more ‘Everything that helps Putin must collapse’: Zelensky says ‘Russia’s goals unchanged’ after airstrike kills 12 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's latest missile attacks, which claimed at least 12 lives, adding that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary. On Women's Day, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta approves ₹2,500 monthly aid for women; AAP's Atishi says ‘still waiting’ Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Saturday (8 March 2025) that the state cabinet has approved the scheme to provide ₹2,500 per month to women. ‘Free speech’ but with limits: 'Equality', 'pregnant people' among words banned under Trump’s ‘woke’ crackdown One of President Donald Trump’s first actions upon returning to office in January was a sweeping removal of “woke” language across federal government websites. According to an investigation by The New York Times, this directive has led to hundreds of terms being erased or avoided in official communications. As most male actors deal with Russia war, Ukrainian theatre rebuilds itself with all-female cast With more than three years of the Russia-Ukraine war, the male Ukrainian actors have also joined the war, fighting for their country as Moscow continues to attack Kyiv. Ruslana Ostapko, a 43-year-old Ukrainian actor took to the stage, wearing a black leather jacket and with a moustache painted on her face. She has been performing in multiple traditionally male roles in a recent production of the Chernihiv Regional Youth Theater. Two women including Israeli tourist raped, male friend killed while stargazing in Karnataka's Hampi; two arrested Two women, including an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner, were gang-raped near Hampi in Karnataka on Thursday night. One of the male tourists who was accompanying them was found dead on Saturday morning. 'They aim at domination': Khamenei condemns ‘bullying’ after Trump’s military action threat against Iran Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday (Marc) criticised what he called “bullying tactics” following US President Donald Trump’s latest warnings of potential military action against Tehran. ‘You’re the troublemaker’: Trump snarks at reporter for asking question about Musk-Rubio clash Hours after the US media reported about some heated exchange between Elon Musk and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a cabinet meeting, US President Donald Trump denied the reports of a clash between his two Cabinet members. Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against 'monstrous' Hamas after US prez warns 'hell to pay' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (March 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas. IND vs NZ: Injury scare for Virat Kohli ahead of Champions Trophy final – Report Ace India batter Virat Kohli suffered a blow to his knee during training ahead of the India-New Zealand Champions Trophy final in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9). While facing a seamer in the nets at the ICC Academy, Kohli was hit on his knee, prompting him to drop guards and stop training, per reports. The Indian physio ran towards him and applied a spray, wrapping the injured area with a bandage. New rumoured plot details of Captain Marvel’s role in Avengers: Doomsday Following the leak of concept art for Avengers: Doomsday, several alleged plot details have surfaced online. The most intriguing rumour so far suggests that Robert Downey Jr. is set to portray Doctor Doom, a character who, much like Thanos, sees himself as a hero and is willing to sacrifice entire universes to save his own.

Top 10 world news: Zelensky says ‘Russia’s goals unchanged’; Delhi approves monthly aid for women, and more

Respect, empathy, emotional support, safety, security, opportunities, and pay parity are some of the major points of conversation when we talk about feminism. What about health? Mental and physical health often takes a back seat for women as they prioritise other aspects. 
On International Women's Day, let's talk about women and their health.&nbsp;
Some will be shocked to know that <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(24)00137-8/fulltext">painkillers don't work</a> as well for women as they do for men. This happens because women experience pain differently than men, hence, their response to treatments is also different.&nbsp;
Females experience more severe pain than men do. They are also more prone to suffer from chronic illnesses like osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, migraine, and irritable bowel syndrome. In addition to that, there are chronic pain conditions exclusive to women and people assigned female at birth, such as endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, vulvodynia, and pelvic girdle syndrome.&nbsp;
Several studies have also found that many prescription painkillers like ibuprofen, steroids, and opioids aren't as effective in women as they are in men. See the irony: women experience more pain, and the medicines they think would work are less effective.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/alia-bhatt-to-deepika-padukone-celebrities-who-have-opened-up-about-their-health-struggles-8831351">Alia Bhatt to Deepika Padukone: Celebrities who have opened up about their health struggles</a>
<h2>Painkillers for menstrual pain&nbsp;</h2>
Menstrual pain is a common concern for women. Pelvic pain radiating to the lower back and thighs and coupled with bloating, tender breasts, and fatigue&mdash;all disrupt daily lives and productivity.&nbsp;
To manage this discomfort, many women opt for quick relief through over-the-counter painkillers, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), unaware of the potential side effects of the medicines.&nbsp;
Dr Ranita Saha, cardiologist at BM Birla Heart Hospital, told WION, "Painkillers reduce the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances responsible for uterine contractions and inflammation that cause period pain. While NSAIDs effectively relieve cramps and allow women to continue their daily routines without discomfort, their impact on cardiovascular health should not be ignored."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/more-microbes-could-help-improve-human-health-in-space-research-reveals-why-8827669">More microbes could help improve human health in space, research reveals why</a>
Several studies have shown that prolonged use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. NSAIDs inhibit a certain enzyme in our body that is naturally cardioprotective, and thus they create an imbalance between the pro-thrombotic and the anti-thrombotic factors in the body, leading to an increased risk of blood clotting and limiting the flow of blood.&nbsp;
Dr Saha added, "NSAIDs also increase the reactivity, the risk of platelet aggregation, and thus there is an increased risk of atherosclerosis, i.e., thickening or hardening of the arteries."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/business-economy/womens-day-2025-list-of-indias-new-age-female-entrepreneurs-driving-change-8834933">Women's Day 2025: List of India&rsquo;s new age female entrepreneurs driving change</a>
<h2>Women and pain management</h2>
A <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.121.024199?itid=lk_inline_enhanced-template">study</a> revealed that women often face challenges in having their pain recognised, and healthcare providers also don't take them seriously. The study also mentioned that women are more likely to encounter scepticism regarding the "severity or legitimacy of their symptoms as a result of gender biases and cultural norms ingrained in the medical discourse about women's bodies and diseases over centuries".&nbsp;
These beliefs can contribute to healthcare professionals downplaying or attributing women's pain to psychological factors or hormonal fluctuations rather than addressing their underlying medical conditions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/from-slums-to-startups-the-inspiring-ascent-of-indian-women-entrepreneurs-8834880">From Slums to Startups: The Inspiring Ascent of Indian Women Entrepreneurs</a>
<h2>Impact of painkillers on cardiovascular health&nbsp;</h2>
Increased Blood Pressure: NSAIDs can cause fluid retention and constrict blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood pressure, which puts additional strain on the heart.&nbsp;
Higher Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke: Studies indicate that long-term NSAID use, even in otherwise healthy individuals, can slightly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly at high doses.&nbsp;
Impact on Blood Clotting: The drugs affect platelet function, potentially leading to&nbsp;blood clot formation. This can pose a significant risk for individuals prone to clotting disorders or those with a history of heart disease. 
Kidney Damage and Fluid Retention: These medications can reduce kidney function over time, leading to fluid retention, which can further elevate blood pressure and increase the workload on the heart.&nbsp;
Risk of Heart Failure: The painkillers can also increase sodium and water retention in the body, thereby increasing the risk of heart failure.&nbsp;
<h2>Scope of conversation on women's health </h2>
The reach of discussions and conversations regarding women's health is somewhat limited to those with easy access. There is a need to make everyone aware of women's health at the grassroots level, as women's health in poor and underdeveloped countries is a critical concern since they often face significant barriers to accessing quality healthcare.&nbsp;
There's a need to improve access to quality healthcare services, including maternal and reproductive health services, which is critical to addressing the health needs of women in poor countries. 
Educating women and girls about their health and providing them with economic opportunities can help empower them to make informed decisions about their health. Addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality is essential to improving the health and well-being of women in poor countries.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | Lifestyle | Entertainment: Explore why women experience more severe pain and why common painkillers like NSAIDs may pose cardiovascular risks yet remain less effective for women.

Respect, empathy, emotional support, safety, security, opportunities, and pay parity are some of the major points of conversation when we talk about feminism. What about health? Mental and physical health often takes a back seat for women as they prioritise other aspects. On International Women's Day, let's talk about women and their health. Some will be shocked to know that painkillers don't work as well for women as they do for men. This happens because women experience pain differently than men, hence, their response to treatments is also different. Females experience more severe pain than men do. They are also more prone to suffer from chronic illnesses like osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, migraine, and irritable bowel syndrome. In addition to that, there are chronic pain conditions exclusive to women and people assigned female at birth, such as endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, vulvodynia, and pelvic girdle syndrome. Several studies have also found that many prescription painkillers like ibuprofen, steroids, and opioids aren't as effective in women as they are in men. See the irony: women experience more pain, and the medicines they think would work are less effective. Also read: Alia Bhatt to Deepika Padukone: Celebrities who have opened up about their health struggles Painkillers for menstrual pain Menstrual pain is a common concern for women. Pelvic pain radiating to the lower back and thighs and coupled with bloating, tender breasts, and fatigue—all disrupt daily lives and productivity. To manage this discomfort, many women opt for quick relief through over-the-counter painkillers, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), unaware of the potential side effects of the medicines. Dr Ranita Saha, cardiologist at BM Birla Heart Hospital, told WION, "Painkillers reduce the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances responsible for uterine contractions and inflammation that cause period pain. While NSAIDs effectively relieve cramps and allow women to continue their daily routines without discomfort, their impact on cardiovascular health should not be ignored." Also read: More microbes could help improve human health in space, research reveals why Several studies have shown that prolonged use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. NSAIDs inhibit a certain enzyme in our body that is naturally cardioprotective, and thus they create an imbalance between the pro-thrombotic and the anti-thrombotic factors in the body, leading to an increased risk of blood clotting and limiting the flow of blood. Dr Saha added, "NSAIDs also increase the reactivity, the risk of platelet aggregation, and thus there is an increased risk of atherosclerosis, i.e., thickening or hardening of the arteries." Also read: Women's Day 2025: List of India’s new age female entrepreneurs driving change Women and pain management A study revealed that women often face challenges in having their pain recognised, and healthcare providers also don't take them seriously. The study also mentioned that women are more likely to encounter scepticism regarding the "severity or legitimacy of their symptoms as a result of gender biases and cultural norms ingrained in the medical discourse about women's bodies and diseases over centuries". These beliefs can contribute to healthcare professionals downplaying or attributing women's pain to psychological factors or hormonal fluctuations rather than addressing their underlying medical conditions. Also read: From Slums to Startups: The Inspiring Ascent of Indian Women Entrepreneurs Impact of painkillers on cardiovascular health Increased Blood Pressure: NSAIDs can cause fluid retention and constrict blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood pressure, which puts additional strain on the heart. Higher Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke: Studies indicate that long-term NSAID use, even in otherwise healthy individuals, can slightly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly at high doses. Impact on Blood Clotting: The drugs affect platelet function, potentially leading to blood clot formation. This can pose a significant risk for individuals prone to clotting disorders or those with a history of heart disease. Kidney Damage and Fluid Retention: These medications can reduce kidney function over time, leading to fluid retention, which can further elevate blood pressure and increase the workload on the heart. Risk of Heart Failure: The painkillers can also increase sodium and water retention in the body, thereby increasing the risk of heart failure. Scope of conversation on women's health The reach of discussions and conversations regarding women's health is somewhat limited to those with easy access. There is a need to make everyone aware of women's health at the grassroots level, as women's health in poor and underdeveloped countries is a critical concern since they often face significant barriers to accessing quality healthcare. There's a need to improve access to quality healthcare services, including maternal and reproductive health services, which is critical to addressing the health needs of women in poor countries. Educating women and girls about their health and providing them with economic opportunities can help empower them to make informed decisions about their health. Addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality is essential to improving the health and well-being of women in poor countries.

Hey, woman, painkillers won’t help you the way they help men

Greenland heads to the polls on Tuesday in what is being called the most significant election in the Arctic island&rsquo;s history. While issues such as education, healthcare, and independence remain central to the debate, one factor that has drawn international attention is US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s determination to acquire Greenland &ldquo;one way or the other&rdquo;.
Denmark, which ruled Greenland as a colony until 1953 and still oversees its foreign and security policy, is watching closely, concerned about the potential loss of a key part of its kingdom.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greenland-rejects-trump-pledge-to-make-the-island-american-8796621">Greenland rejects Trump pledge to make the island American</a>
<h2>Trump's obsession with Greenland</h2>
Even before his second term began in January, Trump had revived his earlier ambitions, making it clear that he would not hesitate to take military action or impose tariffs if Denmark refused to cooperate. This has intensified global interest in Greenland&rsquo;s elections.
<h2>Who are the two big contenders in the Greenland polls?</h2>
The election is mainly contested between two major political alliances, the coalition led by Greenland&rsquo;s Prime Minister M&uacute;te Egede of Inuit Ataqatigiit, a democratic socialist and pro-independence party, and the opposition party Naleraq, which has been gaining ground with its strong push for independence and openness to US collaboration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/in-a-first-scientists-record-countless-tiny-ice-quakes-inside-greenland-ice-stream-8716848">In a first, scientists record countless tiny 'ice quakes' inside Greenland ice stream</a>
Political analysts say the race is too close to call. Naleraq&rsquo;s rising popularity signals a shift in Greenland&rsquo;s political mood, with some voters seeing Trump&rsquo;s interest as an opportunity to negotiate better terms with Denmark or even accelerate Greenland&rsquo;s path to independence.
Security concerns have also come into play, with politicians now requiring protection while campaigning, something unprecedented in Greenland&rsquo;s elections. This political tension includes growing public anger revelations of the alleged mistreatment of Greenlanders by Denmark.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-donald-trump-address-to-congress-8791198">Donald Trump says we will get Greenland 'one way or the other'</a>
<h2>Every vote counts</h2>
With a small voting population of around 40,000, out of a total of 57,000 residents, every vote counts. While Trump&rsquo;s comments triggered a crisis in Copenhagen, Greenlanders largely reacted with a mix of curiosity and optimism, thinking that the situation could be used to their advantage in negotiations.
&ldquo;This election is where everyday politics collides with geopolitical questions over Trump,&rdquo; said Rasmus Leander Nielsen, head of Nasiffik, the University of Greenland&rsquo;s Centre for Foreign and Security Policy, told The Guardian.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dei-executive-order-pregnant-people-among-words-banned-under-trumps-woke-crackdown-8834762">&lsquo;Free speech&rsquo; but with limits: 'Equality', 'pregnant people' among words banned under Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;woke&rsquo; crackdown</a>
He added, &ldquo;We see different dynamics going in different directions, but also it&rsquo;s very unpredictable what&rsquo;s going to happen.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Now with heightened tensions, Greenland has pretty good cards in its hands and could make the argument that they need to do something different from the status quo,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Even before his second term began in January, Trump had revived his earlier ambitions, making it clear that he would not hesitate to take military action or impose tariffs if Denmark refused to cooperate.

Greenland heads to the polls on Tuesday in what is being called the most significant election in the Arctic island’s history. While issues such as education, healthcare, and independence remain central to the debate, one factor that has drawn international attention is US President Donald Trump’s determination to acquire Greenland “one way or the other”. Denmark, which ruled Greenland as a colony until 1953 and still oversees its foreign and security policy, is watching closely, concerned about the potential loss of a key part of its kingdom. Also read: Greenland rejects Trump pledge to make the island American Trump's obsession with Greenland Even before his second term began in January, Trump had revived his earlier ambitions, making it clear that he would not hesitate to take military action or impose tariffs if Denmark refused to cooperate. This has intensified global interest in Greenland’s elections. Who are the two big contenders in the Greenland polls? The election is mainly contested between two major political alliances, the coalition led by Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede of Inuit Ataqatigiit, a democratic socialist and pro-independence party, and the opposition party Naleraq, which has been gaining ground with its strong push for independence and openness to US collaboration. Also read: In a first, scientists record countless tiny 'ice quakes' inside Greenland ice stream Political analysts say the race is too close to call. Naleraq’s rising popularity signals a shift in Greenland’s political mood, with some voters seeing Trump’s interest as an opportunity to negotiate better terms with Denmark or even accelerate Greenland’s path to independence. Security concerns have also come into play, with politicians now requiring protection while campaigning, something unprecedented in Greenland’s elections. This political tension includes growing public anger revelations of the alleged mistreatment of Greenlanders by Denmark. Also read: Donald Trump says we will get Greenland 'one way or the other' Every vote counts With a small voting population of around 40,000, out of a total of 57,000 residents, every vote counts. While Trump’s comments triggered a crisis in Copenhagen, Greenlanders largely reacted with a mix of curiosity and optimism, thinking that the situation could be used to their advantage in negotiations. “This election is where everyday politics collides with geopolitical questions over Trump,” said Rasmus Leander Nielsen, head of Nasiffik, the University of Greenland’s Centre for Foreign and Security Policy, told The Guardian. Also read: ‘Free speech’ but with limits: 'Equality', 'pregnant people' among words banned under Trump’s ‘woke’ crackdown He added, “We see different dynamics going in different directions, but also it’s very unpredictable what’s going to happen.” “Now with heightened tensions, Greenland has pretty good cards in its hands and could make the argument that they need to do something different from the status quo,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Highly unpredictable’: How Trump’s obsession made Greenland’s election the most important in its history

With the Russia-Ukraine war extending to over three years, several male Ukrainian actors have also joined the war, fighting for their country as Moscow continues to attack Kyiv.&nbsp;
Consequently, Ruslana Ostapko, a 43-year-old Ukrainian actor, took to the stage, wearing a black leather jacket and with a moustache painted on her face. She has been performing in multiple traditionally male roles in a recent production of the Chernihiv Regional Youth Theatre.&nbsp;
As many Ukrainian men are serving in the country's armed forces to repel Russia's invasion, the theatre has now adapted to the realities of war, and women are taking the spotlight.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shares-intelligence-with-ukraine-for-defence-not-for-attacks-on-russia-how-crucial-it-is-for-kyiv-8834121">US shares intelligence with Ukraine for defence, not for attacks on Russia. How crucial it is for Kyiv?</a>
Theatre&rsquo;s 52-year-old director, Roman Pokrovskyi, said, "We were rehearsing Shakespeare&rsquo;s &lsquo;King Lear&rsquo; when suddenly our men were taken to the front," adding, &ldquo;We only had the female part of the troupe left. So we thought, &lsquo;Well, if men played women in Shakespeare&rsquo;s times, why not give it a try?&rsquo;&rdquo;
Women are now stepping into roles that were once dominated by men, as the country faces such a hard period with Russia's aggression. They have been pitching in to sustain not just their industries but the spirit of national resistance.&nbsp;
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, four of the theatre's male actors and five stage workers have joined the army, leaving the troupe short-handed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-putin-did-what-anybody-would-do-after-russias-massive-strike-on-ukraine-8832593">Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine</a>
Now, only two men still perform on the stage, and most stage work is done by women. However, the troupe has reinvented itself by adapting its repertoire, transforming its space into a hub for art and wartime volunteer work, and casting women in most roles.&nbsp;
When asked about her friends and colleagues fighting at the border, Ostapko burst into tears, saying "our guys are doing well."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-difficult-to-deal-with-ukraine-trump-complains-about-zelensky-says-easier-to-deal-with-russia-8832284">'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia</a>
&ldquo;This is pain, the pain of the entire nation, our pain,&rdquo; she said while preparing for a performance. &ldquo;But our guys are doing well. We keep our fingers crossed for them. We help.&rdquo;
To express solidarity and support them, the theatre team regularly raises funds to supply their deployed colleagues with the necessary kit for the front lines.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Our actor, Kostiantyn Slobodeniuk, went missing. Our sound operator, Dmytro Pohuliaylo, disappeared in the Pokrovsk direction at the end of 2024,&rdquo; said Oleksii Bysh, 52, one of the theatre's few remaining male actors.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ukraine-to-hold-meeting-next-week-zelensky-announces-after-eu-emergency-summit-in-brussels-8828965">US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Ukrainian women are now stepping into roles that were once dominated by men, as the country faces such a hard period with Russia's aggression.

With the Russia-Ukraine war extending to over three years, several male Ukrainian actors have also joined the war, fighting for their country as Moscow continues to attack Kyiv. Consequently, Ruslana Ostapko, a 43-year-old Ukrainian actor, took to the stage, wearing a black leather jacket and with a moustache painted on her face. She has been performing in multiple traditionally male roles in a recent production of the Chernihiv Regional Youth Theatre. As many Ukrainian men are serving in the country's armed forces to repel Russia's invasion, the theatre has now adapted to the realities of war, and women are taking the spotlight. Also read: US shares intelligence with Ukraine for defence, not for attacks on Russia. How crucial it is for Kyiv? Theatre’s 52-year-old director, Roman Pokrovskyi, said, "We were rehearsing Shakespeare’s ‘King Lear’ when suddenly our men were taken to the front," adding, “We only had the female part of the troupe left. So we thought, ‘Well, if men played women in Shakespeare’s times, why not give it a try?’” Women are now stepping into roles that were once dominated by men, as the country faces such a hard period with Russia's aggression. They have been pitching in to sustain not just their industries but the spirit of national resistance. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, four of the theatre's male actors and five stage workers have joined the army, leaving the troupe short-handed. Also read: Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine Now, only two men still perform on the stage, and most stage work is done by women. However, the troupe has reinvented itself by adapting its repertoire, transforming its space into a hub for art and wartime volunteer work, and casting women in most roles. When asked about her friends and colleagues fighting at the border, Ostapko burst into tears, saying "our guys are doing well." Also read: 'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia “This is pain, the pain of the entire nation, our pain,” she said while preparing for a performance. “But our guys are doing well. We keep our fingers crossed for them. We help.” To express solidarity and support them, the theatre team regularly raises funds to supply their deployed colleagues with the necessary kit for the front lines. “Our actor, Kostiantyn Slobodeniuk, went missing. Our sound operator, Dmytro Pohuliaylo, disappeared in the Pokrovsk direction at the end of 2024,” said Oleksii Bysh, 52, one of the theatre's few remaining male actors. Also read: US, Ukraine likely to hold meeting next week, Zelensky announces after EU Emergency Summit in Brussels (With inputs from agencies)

As most male actors deal with Russia war, Ukrainian theatre rebuilds itself with all-female cast

One of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump&rsquo;s</a> first actions upon returning to office in January was a sweeping removal of &ldquo;woke&rdquo; language across federal government websites. According to an investigation by the New York Times, this directive has led to hundreds of terms being erased or avoided in official communications.
The Times reported that the list of banned words includes phrases such as &ldquo;sense of belonging,&rdquo; &ldquo;all-inclusive&rdquo; and &ldquo;at risk.&rdquo; However, the purge has also extended to seemingly neutral terms like &ldquo;women,&rdquo; &ldquo;institutional&rdquo; and &ldquo;systemic.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youre-the-troublemaker-trump-snarks-at-reporter-for-asking-question-about-musk-rubio-clash-8834343">&lsquo;You&rsquo;re the troublemaker&rsquo;: Trump snarks at reporter for asking question about Musk-Rubio clash</a>
While critics argue this move is discriminatory, it shows a contradiction in Trump&rsquo;s administration. The president and his allies have often positioned themselves as defenders of free speech. Yet, they are now overseeing one of the most extensive language restrictions in recent history.
<h2>A push for &lsquo;free speech,&rsquo; but with limits</h2>
On his first day back in office, Trump signed an executive order titled &ldquo;Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship.&rdquo; The order declared, &ldquo;Government censorship of speech is intolerable in a free society.&rdquo; However, the language restrictions now in place appear to contradict that stance.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-clashed-with-marco-rubio-was-called-liar-in-trump-cabinet-meeting-us-president-denies-claim-8833392">Musk 'clashed' with Rubio, was called 'liar' in cabinet meeting, Trump denies claim</a>
According to The Times, additional words that federal agencies have been instructed to avoid include &ldquo;historically,&rdquo; &ldquo;Native American,&rdquo; &ldquo;health equity,&rdquo; and &ldquo;political.&rdquo; The list, compiled from various government memos, internal guidance documents, and official directives, shows a major shift in the administration&rsquo;s approach to language.
In some cases, agencies have been ordered to remove these words from public-facing materials, including websites and educational content. At other agencies, managers have been advised to exercise caution when using certain terms, though not all have been explicitly banned.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/transgender-women-being-forcefully-transferred-to-men-prisons-after-trumps-order-pawn-in-others-political-games-8833188">Transgender women being forcefully transferred to men prisons after Trump's order: 'Pawn in others' political games'</a>
Although&nbsp;every administration makes adjustments to official language to align with its policies, this latest purge shows an effort to reshape the way government communicates on social issues, diversity, and inclusion.
Here is the full list of words The New York Times identified as being targeted for removal or restriction across federal agencies:
accessible
activism
activists
advocacy
advocate
advocates
affirming care
all-inclusive
allyship
anti-racism
antiracist
assigned at birth
assigned female at birth
assigned male at birth
at risk
barrier
barriers
belong
bias
biased
biased toward
biases
biases towards
biologically female
biologically male
BIPOC
Black
breastfeed + people
breastfeed + person
chestfeed + people
chestfeed + person
clean energy
climate crisis
climate science
commercial sex worker
community diversity
community equity
confirmation bias
cultural competence
cultural differences
cultural heritage
cultural sensitivity
culturally appropriate
culturally responsive
DEI
DEIA
DEIAB
DEIJ
disabilities
disability
discriminated
discrimination
discriminatory
disparity
diverse
diverse backgrounds
diverse communities
diverse community
diverse group
diverse groups
diversified
diversify
diversifying
diversity
enhance the diversity
enhancing diversity
environmental quality
equal opportunity
equality
equitable
equitableness
equity
ethnicity
excluded
exclusion
expression
female
females
feminism
fostering inclusivity
GBV
gender
gender based
gender based violence
gender diversity
gender identity
gender ideology
gender-affirming care
genders
Gulf of Mexico
hate speech
health disparity
health equity
hispanic minority
historically
identity
immigrants
implicit bias
implicit biases
inclusion
inclusive
inclusive leadership
inclusiveness
inclusivity
increase diversity
increase the diversity
indigenous community
inequalities
inequality
inequitable
inequities
inequity
injustice
institutional
intersectional
intersectionality
key groups
key people
key populations
Latinx
LGBT
LGBTQ
marginalize
marginalized
men who have sex with men
mental health
minorities
minority
most risk
MSM
multicultural
Mx
Native American
non-binary
nonbinary
oppression
oppressive
orientation
people + uterus
people-centered care
person-centered
person-centered care
polarization
political
pollution
pregnant people
pregnant person
pregnant persons
prejudice
privilege
privileges
promote diversity
promoting diversity
pronoun
pronouns
prostitute
race
race and ethnicity
racial
racial diversity
racial identity
racial inequality
racial justice
racially
racism
segregation
sense of belonging
sex
sexual preferences
sexuality
social justice
sociocultural
socioeconomic
status
stereotype
stereotypes
systemic
systemically
they/them
trans
transgender
transsexual
trauma
traumatic
tribal
unconscious bias
underappreciated
underprivileged
underrepresentation
underrepresented
underserved
undervalued
victim
victims
vulnerable populations
women
women and underrepresented

World: Trump and his allies have often shown themselves as defenders of free speech. Yet, they are now overseeing one of the most extensive language restrictions in recent history.

One of President Donald Trump’s first actions upon returning to office in January was a sweeping removal of “woke” language across federal government websites. According to an investigation by the New York Times, this directive has led to hundreds of terms being erased or avoided in official communications. The Times reported that the list of banned words includes phrases such as “sense of belonging,” “all-inclusive” and “at risk.” However, the purge has also extended to seemingly neutral terms like “women,” “institutional” and “systemic.” Also read: ‘You’re the troublemaker’: Trump snarks at reporter for asking question about Musk-Rubio clash While critics argue this move is discriminatory, it shows a contradiction in Trump’s administration. The president and his allies have often positioned themselves as defenders of free speech. Yet, they are now overseeing one of the most extensive language restrictions in recent history. A push for ‘free speech,’ but with limits On his first day back in office, Trump signed an executive order titled “Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship.” The order declared, “Government censorship of speech is intolerable in a free society.” However, the language restrictions now in place appear to contradict that stance. Also read: Musk 'clashed' with Rubio, was called 'liar' in cabinet meeting, Trump denies claim According to The Times, additional words that federal agencies have been instructed to avoid include “historically,” “Native American,” “health equity,” and “political.” The list, compiled from various government memos, internal guidance documents, and official directives, shows a major shift in the administration’s approach to language. In some cases, agencies have been ordered to remove these words from public-facing materials, including websites and educational content. At other agencies, managers have been advised to exercise caution when using certain terms, though not all have been explicitly banned. Also read: Transgender women being forcefully transferred to men prisons after Trump's order: 'Pawn in others' political games' Although every administration makes adjustments to official language to align with its policies, this latest purge shows an effort to reshape the way government communicates on social issues, diversity, and inclusion. Here is the full list of words The New York Times identified as being targeted for removal or restriction across federal agencies: accessible activism activists advocacy advocate advocates affirming care all-inclusive allyship anti-racism antiracist assigned at birth assigned female at birth assigned male at birth at risk barrier barriers belong bias biased biased toward biases biases towards biologically female biologically male BIPOC Black breastfeed + people breastfeed + person chestfeed + people chestfeed + person clean energy climate crisis climate science commercial sex worker community diversity community equity confirmation bias cultural competence cultural differences cultural heritage cultural sensitivity culturally appropriate culturally responsive DEI DEIA DEIAB DEIJ disabilities disability discriminated discrimination discriminatory disparity diverse diverse backgrounds diverse communities diverse community diverse group diverse groups diversified diversify diversifying diversity enhance the diversity enhancing diversity environmental quality equal opportunity equality equitable equitableness equity ethnicity excluded exclusion expression female females feminism fostering inclusivity GBV gender gender based gender based violence gender diversity gender identity gender ideology gender-affirming care genders Gulf of Mexico hate speech health disparity health equity hispanic minority historically identity immigrants implicit bias implicit biases inclusion inclusive inclusive leadership inclusiveness inclusivity increase diversity increase the diversity indigenous community inequalities inequality inequitable inequities inequity injustice institutional intersectional intersectionality key groups key people key populations Latinx LGBT LGBTQ marginalize marginalized men who have sex with men mental health minorities minority most risk MSM multicultural Mx Native American non-binary nonbinary oppression oppressive orientation people + uterus people-centered care person-centered person-centered care polarization political pollution pregnant people pregnant person pregnant persons prejudice privilege privileges promote diversity promoting diversity pronoun pronouns prostitute race race and ethnicity racial racial diversity racial identity racial inequality racial justice racially racism segregation sense of belonging sex sexual preferences sexuality social justice sociocultural socioeconomic status stereotype stereotypes systemic systemically they/them trans transgender transsexual trauma traumatic tribal unconscious bias underappreciated underprivileged underrepresentation underrepresented underserved undervalued victim victims vulnerable populations women women and underrepresented

‘Free speech’ but with limits: ‘Equality’, ‘pregnant people’ among words banned under Trump’s ‘woke’ crackdown

Hours after the US media reported about some heated exchange between&nbsp;Elon Musk and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a cabinet meeting, US President Donald Trump denied the reports of a clash between his two Cabinet members.&nbsp;
When asked about the clash, Trump took a jab, calling the reporter a "troublemaker" for asking this question.&nbsp;
The US president was accompanied by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the briefing, when he denied the reports of Musk and Rubio getting into a clash, saying that they got "along fantastically well", adding that there was no clash during the meeting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-clashed-with-marco-rubio-was-called-liar-in-trump-cabinet-meeting-us-president-denies-claim-8833392">Musk 'clashed' with Rubio, was called 'liar' in cabinet meeting, Trump denies claim</a>
When asked about the tensions between the two, Trump said, "No clash. I was there. You're just a troublemaker."
"And you're not supposed to be asking that question because we're talking about the World Cup. Elon gets along great with Marco, and they're both doing a fantastic job. There is no clash."
Following this, Trump asked the reporter who he was affiliated with, "Who are you with?" The reporter replied that he was with NBS, to which Trump snarked, "No wonder."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-takes-playful-jibe-at-marco-rubio-says-we-know-who-to-blame-if-anything-goes-wrong-8794518">Trump takes playful jibe at Marco Rubio, says 'we know who to blame if anything goes wrong'</a>
Another reporter asked, "Sir, just on the Cabinet meeting, you said Musk will play an advisory role.&rdquo;
Trump was quick to respond, saying, &ldquo;We're talking about FIFA. Thank you very much.&rdquo;
He further reiterated his support for both Musk and Rubio, calling them "great guys".
"And by the way, they both get along fantastically well. Marco has done unbelievably as Secretary of State, and Elon is a very unique guy. He's done a fantastic job," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/french-senator-paints-grim-picture-of-us-under-trump-calls-him-dictator-and-musk-a-jester-high-on-ketamine-8829885">French senator paints grim picture of US under Trump, calls him 'dictator' and Musk a 'jester high on ketamine'</a>
As per a report by the New York Times, Musk argued with Rubio and separately with transportation secretary Sean Duffy during a cabinet meeting in the presence of Trump on Thursday (March 6).&nbsp;
According to The Times, Musk accused Rubio of failing to slash his staff, saying, "You have fired nobody."&nbsp;
Rubio reacted strongly, pointing out that over 1,500 State Department officials had taken early retirement in buyouts, which should be counted as layoffs.
Meanwhile, Musk was called a "liar" by a top diplomat in Trump's cabinet, Sean Duffy, the department of transport secretary. Duffy accused the DOGE chief of firing people who should not have been laid off&mdash;a claim that Musk denied.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-musks-cost-cutting-claims-department-heads-control-personnel-decisions-doge-scalpel-not-hatchet-8829268">Reining in? Trump defends DOGE but says dept heads control firings, not Musk</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hours after the US media reported about some heated exchange between Elon Musk and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's clash during a cabinet meeting, US President Donald Trump denied the reports.

Hours after the US media reported about some heated exchange between Elon Musk and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a cabinet meeting, US President Donald Trump denied the reports of a clash between his two Cabinet members. When asked about the clash, Trump took a jab, calling the reporter a "troublemaker" for asking this question. The US president was accompanied by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the briefing, when he denied the reports of Musk and Rubio getting into a clash, saying that they got "along fantastically well", adding that there was no clash during the meeting. Also read: Musk 'clashed' with Rubio, was called 'liar' in cabinet meeting, Trump denies claim When asked about the tensions between the two, Trump said, "No clash. I was there. You're just a troublemaker." "And you're not supposed to be asking that question because we're talking about the World Cup. Elon gets along great with Marco, and they're both doing a fantastic job. There is no clash." Following this, Trump asked the reporter who he was affiliated with, "Who are you with?" The reporter replied that he was with NBS, to which Trump snarked, "No wonder." Also read: Trump takes playful jibe at Marco Rubio, says 'we know who to blame if anything goes wrong' Another reporter asked, "Sir, just on the Cabinet meeting, you said Musk will play an advisory role.” Trump was quick to respond, saying, “We're talking about FIFA. Thank you very much.” He further reiterated his support for both Musk and Rubio, calling them "great guys". "And by the way, they both get along fantastically well. Marco has done unbelievably as Secretary of State, and Elon is a very unique guy. He's done a fantastic job," he added. Also read: French senator paints grim picture of US under Trump, calls him 'dictator' and Musk a 'jester high on ketamine' As per a report by the New York Times, Musk argued with Rubio and separately with transportation secretary Sean Duffy during a cabinet meeting in the presence of Trump on Thursday (March 6). According to The Times, Musk accused Rubio of failing to slash his staff, saying, "You have fired nobody." Rubio reacted strongly, pointing out that over 1,500 State Department officials had taken early retirement in buyouts, which should be counted as layoffs. Meanwhile, Musk was called a "liar" by a top diplomat in Trump's cabinet, Sean Duffy, the department of transport secretary. Duffy accused the DOGE chief of firing people who should not have been laid off—a claim that Musk denied. Also read: Reining in? Trump defends DOGE but says dept heads control firings, not Musk (With inputs from agencies)

‘You’re the troublemaker’: Trump snarks at reporter for asking question about Musk-Rubio clash

As the US announced to pause intelligence sharing with Ukraine, two anonymous defence officials said that the US still continues to share some intelligence with Kyiv to assist with defence operations, but not for attacks on Russian troops, CNN reported.&nbsp;
The US aims to avoid being seen as directly providing support for strikes on Russia, the sources told CNN.&nbsp;
However, Washington is not withholding information that could enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities.&nbsp;
Moreover, this move to cut intelligence sharing to Ukraine is part of the Trump administration's aim to pressure Kyiv into quick negotiations with Russia.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-putin-did-what-anybody-would-do-after-russias-massive-strike-on-ukraine-8832593">Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine</a>
Further, the sources confirmed that Starlink is also still operating in Ukraine as before. Notably, the Ukrainian military relies on Elon Musk's Starlink.
Owned by SpaceX, Starlink belongs to Trump's closest ally and billionaire Elon Musk.&nbsp;
The US on March 5 announced that it was placing limitations on intelligence sharing with Ukraine. This comes after Trump ordered to cut military aid for Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-difficult-to-deal-with-ukraine-trump-complains-about-zelensky-says-easier-to-deal-with-russia-8832284">'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia</a>
<h2>How important is US intel for Ukraine?</h2>
If the US completely pauses intelligence support to Ukraine, it will seriously undermine the warring nation's ability to defend itself against Russia's aggression.&nbsp;
As the US shares intelligence with Ukraine, it helps its military to plan its attacks and operations and get timely warnings against incoming Russian air strikes and group assaults.&nbsp;
Roman Kostenko, secretary of Ukraine's Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Defence, and Intelligence, said the absence of "vital" US intelligence puts the lives of Ukrainian troops and civilians "under greater danger."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-savvy-putins-russia-with-large-scale-sanctions-after-moscow-strikes-ukraine-8832564">Ukraine's battlefield losses rise as Trump pulls Kyiv's access to US intelligence and satellite imagery</a>
"Can we [still] strike the enemy without external intelligence? Yes, of course. For example, we can strike stationary targets --such as a distant airfield -- that we already know about," said Kostenko, a former military commander.&nbsp;
"But [we rely on US intelligence] to see in real-time if aircraft are present there if they are preparing for takeoff to attack Ukraine."
Moreover, Ukraine also relies on US data to operate US-supplied High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and the US Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), among the most advanced artillery systems in the world.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-military-aid-us-halts-intelligence-support-to-ukraine-8801101">After military aid, US halts intelligence support to Ukraine</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
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World: This move to cut intelligence sharing to Ukraine is part of the Trump administration's aim to pressure Kyiv into quick negotiations with Russia.

As the US announced to pause intelligence sharing with Ukraine, two anonymous defence officials said that the US still continues to share some intelligence with Kyiv to assist with defence operations, but not for attacks on Russian troops, CNN reported. The US aims to avoid being seen as directly providing support for strikes on Russia, the sources told CNN. However, Washington is not withholding information that could enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities. Moreover, this move to cut intelligence sharing to Ukraine is part of the Trump administration's aim to pressure Kyiv into quick negotiations with Russia. Also read: Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine Further, the sources confirmed that Starlink is also still operating in Ukraine as before. Notably, the Ukrainian military relies on Elon Musk's Starlink. Owned by SpaceX, Starlink belongs to Trump's closest ally and billionaire Elon Musk. The US on March 5 announced that it was placing limitations on intelligence sharing with Ukraine. This comes after Trump ordered to cut military aid for Ukraine. Also read: 'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia How important is US intel for Ukraine? If the US completely pauses intelligence support to Ukraine, it will seriously undermine the warring nation's ability to defend itself against Russia's aggression. As the US shares intelligence with Ukraine, it helps its military to plan its attacks and operations and get timely warnings against incoming Russian air strikes and group assaults. Roman Kostenko, secretary of Ukraine's Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Defence, and Intelligence, said the absence of "vital" US intelligence puts the lives of Ukrainian troops and civilians "under greater danger." Also read: Ukraine's battlefield losses rise as Trump pulls Kyiv's access to US intelligence and satellite imagery "Can we [still] strike the enemy without external intelligence? Yes, of course. For example, we can strike stationary targets --such as a distant airfield -- that we already know about," said Kostenko, a former military commander. "But [we rely on US intelligence] to see in real-time if aircraft are present there if they are preparing for takeoff to attack Ukraine." Moreover, Ukraine also relies on US data to operate US-supplied High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and the US Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), among the most advanced artillery systems in the world. Also read: After military aid, US halts intelligence support to Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

US shares intelligence with Ukraine for defence, not for attacks on Russia. How crucial it is for Kyiv?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's latest missile attacks, which claimed at least 12 lives, adding that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary.
"Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged," Zelensky said on social media platform X. 
"Therefore, it is very important to continue to do everything to protect life, strengthen our air defence, and increase sanctions against Russia. Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-difficult-to-deal-with-ukraine-trump-complains-about-zelensky-says-easier-to-deal-with-russia-8832284" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia</a>
According to Zelensky, the Russian military targeted the centre of Dobropillya in Ukraine&rsquo;s eastern Donetsk region with two ballistic missiles on Friday night. The second strike, he claimed, deliberately hit rescuers who had responded to the initial attack.
"This is a vile and inhumane intimidation tactic often used by the Russians," he said.
The attack resulted in significant casualties, with at least 11 people confirmed dead at the time of his statement. "My condolences to their families and loved ones," Zelensky added. He further reported that more than 30 people, including five children, were injured. Several buildings, including apartment complexes and an administrative facility, sustained damage, along with a fire truck.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-built-up-trust-zelenskys-approval-rating-surges-to-68-per-cent-after-showdown-with-trump-8831282">Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump</a>
<h2>Trump says Ukraine 'doesn&rsquo;t have the cards'</h2>
Meanwhile, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Friday said, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m finding it more difficult, frankly, to deal with Ukraine, and they don&rsquo;t have the cards.&rdquo;
He also spoke about his diplomatic efforts to end the war, saying that he is trying to assist Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and tariffs. "Ukraine has to get on the ball and get a job done," he told reporters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-putin-did-what-anybody-would-do-after-russias-massive-strike-on-ukraine-8832593">Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine</a>
Earlier on Friday, Trump posted on Truth Social, warning of large-scale sanctions and tariffs against Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached.
"To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" he wrote, adding that Russia is currently "absolutely pounding" Ukraine on the battlefield.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged. Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse," Zelensky said on social media platform X.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's latest missile attacks, which claimed at least 12 lives, adding that Moscow's objectives remain unchanged and that tougher sanctions are necessary. "Such strikes show that Russia's goals are unchanged," Zelensky said on social media platform X. "Therefore, it is very important to continue to do everything to protect life, strengthen our air defence, and increase sanctions against Russia. Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse," he added. Also read: 'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia According to Zelensky, the Russian military targeted the centre of Dobropillya in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region with two ballistic missiles on Friday night. The second strike, he claimed, deliberately hit rescuers who had responded to the initial attack. "This is a vile and inhumane intimidation tactic often used by the Russians," he said. The attack resulted in significant casualties, with at least 11 people confirmed dead at the time of his statement. "My condolences to their families and loved ones," Zelensky added. He further reported that more than 30 people, including five children, were injured. Several buildings, including apartment complexes and an administrative facility, sustained damage, along with a fire truck. Also read: Zelensky's approval rating surges to 68 per cent after showdown with Trump Trump says Ukraine 'doesn’t have the cards' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Friday said, “I’m finding it more difficult, frankly, to deal with Ukraine, and they don’t have the cards.” He also spoke about his diplomatic efforts to end the war, saying that he is trying to assist Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and tariffs. "Ukraine has to get on the ball and get a job done," he told reporters. Also read: Donald Trump says Putin did 'what anybody would do' after Russia's massive strike on Ukraine Earlier on Friday, Trump posted on Truth Social, warning of large-scale sanctions and tariffs against Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached. "To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" he wrote, adding that Russia is currently "absolutely pounding" Ukraine on the battlefield. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Everything that helps Putin must collapse’: Zelensky says ‘Russia’s goals unchanged’ after airstrike kills 12

Joel Le Scouarnec, the former French surgeon on trial for sexually abusing nearly 300 of his young patients on Friday (March 7), confessed to preying on children in his home.
<h2>A predator to his core</h2>
The 74-year-old, who has been on trial in the western city of Vannes for the past one week, has admitted to raping a friend of his children.
Scouarnec is charged with assaulting or raping 299 of his patients between 1989 and 2014 at a dozen hospitals. As per an AFP report, many of his victims were under the effects of anesthesia or were waking up from operations at the time of the abuse.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/wwii-bomb-discovered-near-paris-gare-du-nord-station-traffic-heavily-disrupted-at-frances-busiest-train-station-8830596">WWII bomb discovered near Paris Gare du Nord station; traffic 'heavily disrupted' at France's busiest train station</a>
On Friday, he admitted to raping &lsquo;S&rsquo; a friend of his children. The assault happened in the early 1990s.&nbsp;
The woman, who has not been named as she was a mere child at the time of the assault, told a court in western France of the abuse she suffered while visiting the Le Scouarnec household. She revealed that the surgeon took her into the bedroom and &ldquo;raped&rdquo; her. As per the survivor, her mother and the doctor&rsquo;s wife were chatting in the living room while he assaulted her in the bedroom.
She revealed that he tried to carry out his twisted fantasies twice more. Once he followed her into the bathroom and digitally raped her. The second time, Scouarnec tried to isolate her, but she managed to escape and run back to her mother.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paedophile-ex-surgeon-admits-to-hideous-crimes-in-largest-child-sexual-abuse-trial-of-france-8754405">'Paedophile' ex-surgeon admits to 'hideous' crimes in largest child sexual abuse trial of France</a>
<h2>Joel Le Scouarnec admits the abuse</h2>
The doctor, who has earlier claimed to not remember most of the acts he&rsquo;s charged with, admitted to the &ldquo;bathroom&rdquo; episode. He said that he would &ldquo;make the most of (one of my sons) bringing friends (home) to abuse them.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/active-duty-us-soldiers-charged-with-selling-sensitive-military-data-to-china-in-shocking-betrayal-8833674">Active-duty US soldiers charged with selling sensitive military data to China in shocking 'betrayal'</a>
He detailed that the day he abused &ldquo;S&rdquo; in the bathroom, &ldquo;I was on the lookout for an opportunity, and there, I saw little S. go to the toilet. So I went to the toilet to commit the acts as I described them.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I only thought about myself,&rdquo; he said.
(With inputs from agencies)
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World news | Former French surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec confesses to raping his son's friend at home during France's largest child sexual abuse trial.

Joel Le Scouarnec, the former French surgeon on trial for sexually abusing nearly 300 of his young patients on Friday (March 7), confessed to preying on children in his home. A predator to his core The 74-year-old, who has been on trial in the western city of Vannes for the past one week, has admitted to raping a friend of his children. Scouarnec is charged with assaulting or raping 299 of his patients between 1989 and 2014 at a dozen hospitals. As per an AFP report, many of his victims were under the effects of anesthesia or were waking up from operations at the time of the abuse. Also read | WWII bomb discovered near Paris Gare du Nord station; traffic 'heavily disrupted' at France's busiest train station On Friday, he admitted to raping ‘S’ a friend of his children. The assault happened in the early 1990s. The woman, who has not been named as she was a mere child at the time of the assault, told a court in western France of the abuse she suffered while visiting the Le Scouarnec household. She revealed that the surgeon took her into the bedroom and “raped” her. As per the survivor, her mother and the doctor’s wife were chatting in the living room while he assaulted her in the bedroom. She revealed that he tried to carry out his twisted fantasies twice more. Once he followed her into the bathroom and digitally raped her. The second time, Scouarnec tried to isolate her, but she managed to escape and run back to her mother. Also read | 'Paedophile' ex-surgeon admits to 'hideous' crimes in largest child sexual abuse trial of France Joel Le Scouarnec admits the abuse The doctor, who has earlier claimed to not remember most of the acts he’s charged with, admitted to the “bathroom” episode. He said that he would “make the most of (one of my sons) bringing friends (home) to abuse them.” Also read | Active-duty US soldiers charged with selling sensitive military data to China in shocking 'betrayal' He detailed that the day he abused “S” in the bathroom, “I was on the lookout for an opportunity, and there, I saw little S. go to the toilet. So I went to the toilet to commit the acts as I described them.” “I only thought about myself,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Paedophile’ ex-surgeon confesses to preying on son’s friends during France’s largest child sexual abuse trial

More than 50 freed Israeli hostages urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to fully implement the Gaza ceasefire deal and secure the release of those still held in the Palestinian territory.
"We who have experienced the inferno know that a return to war is life-threatening for those still left behind," a group of 56 freed hostages said in a letter posted on the social media platform Instagram on Friday evening.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-key-confidant-lashed-out-at-us-envoy-for-holding-direct-talks-with-hamas-8832212">Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas</a>
"Implement the agreement in full, in one single manoeuvre."
Among those to sign the letter was Yarden Bibas, whose wife and two young sons died while held captive in Gaza.
Their plea came as Hamas released a video showing Israeli hostage Matan Angrest alive, footage that his family said had left them "shaken".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-warns-hamas-of-unimaginable-consequences-if-they-fail-to-return-hostages-gaza-ceasefire-8775399">&lsquo;Might return to war&rsquo;: Netanyahu warns Hamas of &lsquo;unimaginable consequences&rsquo; if they don't return hostages</a>
In the footage, Angrest, who turned 22 in November, also calls on the Israeli authorities to implement the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire ended on March 1 after six weeks of relative calm that included exchanges of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, though hostilities have not resumed.&nbsp;
While Israel has said it wants to extend the first phase until mid-April, Hamas has insisted on a transition to the second phase, which should lead to a permanent end to the war.
Of the 251 hostages taken by Palestinian militants during the 2023 attack on Israel, 58 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military has said are dead.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-stops-aid-to-gaza-over-hamass-denial-to-extend-phase-1-of-truce-8770608">Netanyahu's office admits it received alert hours before October 7 attack but did not act on it</a>
On Saturday, a high-level Hamas delegation is expected to hold talks with Egyptian officials over the second phase of the ceasefire, two senior Hamas officials told AFP the day before.
"The delegation will meet with Egyptian officials on Saturday to discuss the latest developments, assess progress in implementing the ceasefire agreement, and address matters related to launching the second phase of the deal," one official told AFP.
During its talks with Egyptian mediators, the Hamas delegation will demand that Israel "implement the agreement, begin negotiations for the second phase, and open the border crossings to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip," he said.
The Palestinian militant group wants a "comprehensive agreement that ensures a permanent and complete ceasefire," the other official said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-stops-aid-to-gaza-over-hamass-denial-to-extend-phase-1-of-truce-8770608">Netanyahu's office admits it received alert hours before October 7 attack but did not act on it</a>
He said Hamas's demands for the second phase include a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, an end to the blockade, the reconstruction of the territory, and financial support based on the decisions of this week's Arab summit in Cairo.
He also said that Hamas was ready to "negotiate a prisoner exchange to release all Israeli prisoners, including those with American citizenship".
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WORLD | Middle East: In the footage, Angrest, who turned 22 in November, also calls on the Israeli authorities to implement the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.

More than 50 freed Israeli hostages urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to fully implement the Gaza ceasefire deal and secure the release of those still held in the Palestinian territory. "We who have experienced the inferno know that a return to war is life-threatening for those still left behind," a group of 56 freed hostages said in a letter posted on the social media platform Instagram on Friday evening. Also read: Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas "Implement the agreement in full, in one single manoeuvre." Among those to sign the letter was Yarden Bibas, whose wife and two young sons died while held captive in Gaza. Their plea came as Hamas released a video showing Israeli hostage Matan Angrest alive, footage that his family said had left them "shaken". Also read: ‘Might return to war’: Netanyahu warns Hamas of ‘unimaginable consequences’ if they don't return hostages In the footage, Angrest, who turned 22 in November, also calls on the Israeli authorities to implement the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire ended on March 1 after six weeks of relative calm that included exchanges of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, though hostilities have not resumed. While Israel has said it wants to extend the first phase until mid-April, Hamas has insisted on a transition to the second phase, which should lead to a permanent end to the war. Of the 251 hostages taken by Palestinian militants during the 2023 attack on Israel, 58 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military has said are dead. Also read: Netanyahu's office admits it received alert hours before October 7 attack but did not act on it On Saturday, a high-level Hamas delegation is expected to hold talks with Egyptian officials over the second phase of the ceasefire, two senior Hamas officials told AFP the day before. "The delegation will meet with Egyptian officials on Saturday to discuss the latest developments, assess progress in implementing the ceasefire agreement, and address matters related to launching the second phase of the deal," one official told AFP. During its talks with Egyptian mediators, the Hamas delegation will demand that Israel "implement the agreement, begin negotiations for the second phase, and open the border crossings to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip," he said. The Palestinian militant group wants a "comprehensive agreement that ensures a permanent and complete ceasefire," the other official said. Also read: Netanyahu's office admits it received alert hours before October 7 attack but did not act on it He said Hamas's demands for the second phase include a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, an end to the blockade, the reconstruction of the territory, and financial support based on the decisions of this week's Arab summit in Cairo. He also said that Hamas was ready to "negotiate a prisoner exchange to release all Israeli prisoners, including those with American citizenship". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Over 50 freed Israeli hostages urge Netanyahu to implement Gaza deal ‘in full’

Two active duty US army personnel have been charged with selling sensitive military and national defence information to China, reveal newly unsealed court records.
Identified as Jian Zhao, the battery supply sergeant was stationed at Joint Base Lewis McChord in Washington. State federal prosecutors allege that Zhao communicated with an unnamed co-conspirator and sold him classified data.
Alongside Zhao, another active duty US soldier from the same army base has been charged by Oregon federal prosecutors.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-had-a-calm-night-but-condition-remainsl-critical-after-3-weeks-in-hospital-8833635">Pope Francis had a 'calm' night, but condition remains critical after 3 weeks in hospital</a>
On X, FBI Director Kash Patel said that &ldquo;These individuals have been charged with stealing America&rsquo;s defense intelligence capabilities and empowering adversaries like China in betrayal of our country.&rdquo;
&ldquo;They will now face American justice,&rdquo; he stated.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7zz3a28-n5m773y6-i8uwli20">
BREAKING: I can now report that today the FBI, along with our interagency partners led by <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a>, arrested two active duty U.S. Army soldiers and one former U.S. Army soldier for theft of government property and a bribery scheme. These individuals have been charged with&hellip;
&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1897838771611017601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Charges against Jian Zhao</h2>
Prosecutors allege that the battery supply sergeant repeatedly sold classified information. Zhao was allegedly in contact with an unnamed co-conspirator from July to December of last year and sold them an encrypted military computer and 20 classified hard drives.
He has now been charged with conspiring to obtain and transmit national defense information, as well as bribery and theft of government property.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-cannot-crack-secret-code-on-statue-near-cia-headquarter-says-sculptor-8833427">'You can't...': Stop using AI to crack code on statue near CIA headquarter, says sculptor</a>
<h2>Another US army man charged with &lsquo;betraying&rsquo; US</h2>
Prosecutors allege that the second soldier, identified as Li Tian, shared sensitive information related to the US military's weapons systems with a former soldier.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7zz3exk-e5645a1s-79q2y9co">
Active-Duty and Former U.S. Army Soldiers Arrested for Theft of Government Property and Bribery Scheme <a href="https://t.co/e4LpQvUaMK">https://t.co/e4LpQvUaMK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FBISeattle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBISeattle</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIPortland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBIPortland</a> <a href="https://t.co/54poek3YbM">pic.twitter.com/54poek3YbM</a>
&mdash; FBI (@FBI) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI/status/1897844849686331738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
According to a press release from the US Justice Department, Li Tian allegedly shared documents related to Bradley and Stryker US Army fighting vehicles with Ruoyu Duan, a former US Army soldier. Both Tian and Duan were taken into custody on Thursday (March 6) and have been charged with conspiring to commit bribery and theft of government property, said DOJ in its statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-canada-with-250pc-tariffs-on-dairy-slams-trudeaus-nation-for-cheating-us-farmers-8832659">Trump threatens Canada with 250% tariffs on dairy, slams Trudeau's nation of 'cheating' US farmers</a>
In a statement, Attorney General Pam Bondi said that &ldquo;The defendants arrested today are accused of betraying our country, actively working to weaken America&rsquo;s defense capabilities and empowering our adversaries in China&rdquo;.
&ldquo;They will face swift, severe, and comprehensive justice,&rdquo; she added.
(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Two active duty US army personnel have been charged with selling sensitive military and national defence information to China, reveal newly unsealed court records.

Two active duty US army personnel have been charged with selling sensitive military and national defence information to China, reveal newly unsealed court records. Identified as Jian Zhao, the battery supply sergeant was stationed at Joint Base Lewis McChord in Washington. State federal prosecutors allege that Zhao communicated with an unnamed co-conspirator and sold him classified data. Alongside Zhao, another active duty US soldier from the same army base has been charged by Oregon federal prosecutors. Also read | Pope Francis had a 'calm' night, but condition remains critical after 3 weeks in hospital On X, FBI Director Kash Patel said that “These individuals have been charged with stealing America’s defense intelligence capabilities and empowering adversaries like China in betrayal of our country.” “They will now face American justice,” he stated. BREAKING: I can now report that today the FBI, along with our interagency partners led by @AGPamBondi, arrested two active duty U.S. Army soldiers and one former U.S. Army soldier for theft of government property and a bribery scheme. These individuals have been charged with… — FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 7, 2025 Charges against Jian Zhao Prosecutors allege that the battery supply sergeant repeatedly sold classified information. Zhao was allegedly in contact with an unnamed co-conspirator from July to December of last year and sold them an encrypted military computer and 20 classified hard drives. He has now been charged with conspiring to obtain and transmit national defense information, as well as bribery and theft of government property. Also read | 'You can't...': Stop using AI to crack code on statue near CIA headquarter, says sculptor Another US army man charged with ‘betraying’ US Prosecutors allege that the second soldier, identified as Li Tian, shared sensitive information related to the US military's weapons systems with a former soldier. Active-Duty and Former U.S. Army Soldiers Arrested for Theft of Government Property and Bribery Scheme https://t.co/e4LpQvUaMK @FBISeattle @FBIPortland pic.twitter.com/54poek3YbM — FBI (@FBI) March 7, 2025 According to a press release from the US Justice Department, Li Tian allegedly shared documents related to Bradley and Stryker US Army fighting vehicles with Ruoyu Duan, a former US Army soldier. Both Tian and Duan were taken into custody on Thursday (March 6) and have been charged with conspiring to commit bribery and theft of government property, said DOJ in its statement. Also read | Trump threatens Canada with 250% tariffs on dairy, slams Trudeau's nation of 'cheating' US farmers In a statement, Attorney General Pam Bondi said that “The defendants arrested today are accused of betraying our country, actively working to weaken America’s defense capabilities and empowering our adversaries in China”. “They will face swift, severe, and comprehensive justice,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Active-duty US soldiers charged with selling sensitive military data to China in shocking 'betrayal'

Pope Francis spent a quiet night in hospital, the Vatican said Saturday, as the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church battles pneumonia.
"The night was calm, the pope is resting", it said in its brief morning update on the Argentine, who has been in a special papal suite at Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14.
The pontiff has suffered several respiratory crises since his admission, most recently on Monday, but for several days now the Vatican has described his condition as "stable".
He is still in a "complex clinical condition" so "the prognosis remains guarded", it said Friday.
On Thursday Francis released an audio message -- the first time the world had heard his voice since he went into hospital -- in which he thanked those praying for his recovery.
The pontiff sounded weak and breathless despite marking three weeks of treatment at the Gemelli.
"I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square. I accompany you from here," said Francis, taking laboured breaths every couple of words.
The pope did a bit of work and some physiotherapy Friday, but mostly rested and prayed, including spending around 20 minutes in the little chapel inside the hospital's papal suite, the Vatican said.
He continues to switch between an oxygen mask at night and a cannula -- a plastic tube tucking into the nostrils -- delivering high-flow oxygen during the day.
In a bid for greater transparency, the Vatican has been publishing an update on how the pope slept every morning, followed by a more detailed medical bulletin each evening.
On Thursday it said that "in view of the stability of the clinical picture", there would be no medical bulletin on Friday evening. The next is due later Saturday.
During previous hospitalisations, the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics appeared on the Gemelli balcony for his weekly Sunday Angelus prayer.
But he has missed the last three, and no announcement has yet been made about whether he will make an appearance this weekend.
The pope has suffered a series of health issues in recent years, from colon surgery in 2021 to a hernia operation in 2023, but this is the longest and most serious hospitalisation of his papacy.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Pope Francis remains in critical condition after three weeks in hospital battling pneumonia, with the Vatican providing daily updates on his health and recovery progress.

Pope Francis spent a quiet night in hospital, the Vatican said Saturday, as the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church battles pneumonia. "The night was calm, the pope is resting", it said in its brief morning update on the Argentine, who has been in a special papal suite at Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14. The pontiff has suffered several respiratory crises since his admission, most recently on Monday, but for several days now the Vatican has described his condition as "stable". He is still in a "complex clinical condition" so "the prognosis remains guarded", it said Friday. On Thursday Francis released an audio message -- the first time the world had heard his voice since he went into hospital -- in which he thanked those praying for his recovery. The pontiff sounded weak and breathless despite marking three weeks of treatment at the Gemelli. "I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square. I accompany you from here," said Francis, taking laboured breaths every couple of words. The pope did a bit of work and some physiotherapy Friday, but mostly rested and prayed, including spending around 20 minutes in the little chapel inside the hospital's papal suite, the Vatican said. He continues to switch between an oxygen mask at night and a cannula -- a plastic tube tucking into the nostrils -- delivering high-flow oxygen during the day. In a bid for greater transparency, the Vatican has been publishing an update on how the pope slept every morning, followed by a more detailed medical bulletin each evening. On Thursday it said that "in view of the stability of the clinical picture", there would be no medical bulletin on Friday evening. The next is due later Saturday. During previous hospitalisations, the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics appeared on the Gemelli balcony for his weekly Sunday Angelus prayer. But he has missed the last three, and no announcement has yet been made about whether he will make an appearance this weekend. The pope has suffered a series of health issues in recent years, from colon surgery in 2021 to a hernia operation in 2023, but this is the longest and most serious hospitalisation of his papacy. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pope Francis had a 'calm' night, but condition remains critical after 3 weeks in hospital

US President Donald Trump denied the reports that his senior advisor, billionaire Elon Musk, had clashed with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a White House meeting on Friday (March 7).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/french-senator-paints-grim-picture-of-us-under-trump-calls-him-dictator-and-musk-a-jester-high-on-ketamine-8829885">French senator paints grim picture of US under Trump, calls him 'dictator' and Musk a 'jester high on ketamine'</a>
As per a report by the The New York Times, Musk argued with Rubio and separately with transportation secretary Sean Duffy during a cabinet meeting in presence of Trump on Thursday (March 6).&nbsp;
But when he was asked by reporters about the reported dispute, Trump said &nbsp;"No clash. I was there."
"They're both doing a fantastic job ... they both get along fantastically well," the US president added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-musks-cost-cutting-claims-department-heads-control-personnel-decisions-doge-scalpel-not-hatchet-8829268">Reining in? Trump defends DOGE but says dept heads control firings, not Musk</a>
According to the report, Musk scorned Rubio's cost-cutting record at the State Department. He accused the state secretary of having fired "nobody" in the administration's first 45 days.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Musk was called a "liar" by a top diplomat in Trump's cabinet&nbsp; - Sean Duffy, the department of transport secretary. Duffy accused the DOGE chief fired people who should not have been laid off - a claim that Musk denied.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/transgender-women-being-forcefully-transferred-to-men-prisons-after-trumps-order-pawn-in-others-political-games-8833188">Transgender women being forcefully transferred to men prisons after Trump's order: 'Pawn in others' political games'</a>
The exchange between the two ended with Trump ordering Duffy to hire staff from MIT as air traffic controllers because the role requires &ldquo;geniuses&rdquo;, the report claimed.&nbsp;
"Trump called the meeting and then he backed his cabinet guys. Collins and Duffy called him (Musk) a liar to his face, in front of the president," the report claimed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-canada-with-250pc-tariffs-on-dairy-slams-trudeaus-nation-for-cheating-us-farmers-8832659">Trump threatens Canada with 250% tariffs on dairy, slams Trudeau's nation of 'cheating' US farmers</a>
After the meeting, the US presiddent took to social media and said, 'We just had a meeting with most of the secretaries, Elon, and others, and it was a very positive one."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | As per a report by the The New York Times, Musk argued with Rubio and separately with transportation secretary Sean Duffy during a cabinet meeting in presence of Trump on Thursday (March 6).

US President Donald Trump denied the reports that his senior advisor, billionaire Elon Musk, had clashed with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a White House meeting on Friday (March 7). Also read: French senator paints grim picture of US under Trump, calls him 'dictator' and Musk a 'jester high on ketamine' As per a report by the The New York Times, Musk argued with Rubio and separately with transportation secretary Sean Duffy during a cabinet meeting in presence of Trump on Thursday (March 6). But when he was asked by reporters about the reported dispute, Trump said "No clash. I was there." "They're both doing a fantastic job ... they both get along fantastically well," the US president added. Also read: Reining in? Trump defends DOGE but says dept heads control firings, not Musk According to the report, Musk scorned Rubio's cost-cutting record at the State Department. He accused the state secretary of having fired "nobody" in the administration's first 45 days. Meanwhile, Musk was called a "liar" by a top diplomat in Trump's cabinet - Sean Duffy, the department of transport secretary. Duffy accused the DOGE chief fired people who should not have been laid off - a claim that Musk denied. Also read: Transgender women being forcefully transferred to men prisons after Trump's order: 'Pawn in others' political games' The exchange between the two ended with Trump ordering Duffy to hire staff from MIT as air traffic controllers because the role requires “geniuses”, the report claimed. "Trump called the meeting and then he backed his cabinet guys. Collins and Duffy called him (Musk) a liar to his face, in front of the president," the report claimed. Also read: Trump threatens Canada with 250% tariffs on dairy, slams Trudeau's nation of 'cheating' US farmers After the meeting, the US presiddent took to social media and said, 'We just had a meeting with most of the secretaries, Elon, and others, and it was a very positive one." (With inputs from agencies)

Musk 'clashed' with Rubio, was called 'liar' in cabinet meeting, Trump denies claim

Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa on Friday urged insurgents from ousted president Bashar al-Assad's Alawite minority to lay down their arms and surrender after the fiercest attacks on the war-torn country's new rulers yet.
The warning came as Syria's security forces "executed" 162 Alawites on Friday, according to a Syrian war monitor, in a massive operation in the ethnic group's Mediterranean heartland triggered by deadly clashes with gunmen loyal to Assad the day before.
"You attacked all Syrians and made an unforgivable mistake. The riposte has come, and you have not been able to withstand it," Sharaa said in a speech broadcast on Telegram by the Syrian presidency.&nbsp;
"Lay down your weapons and surrender before it's too late."&nbsp;
More than 250 people have been killed since the clashes erupted on Thursday along the country's western coast, which followed other deadly incidents in the area this week, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
Restoring security has been one of the most complex tasks for Syria's new authorities, installed after Islamist-led forces ousted Assad in a lightning offensive in December.
In his Friday address, Sharaa, who headed the coalition that forced out Assad, also vowed to keep working towards "monopolising weapons in the hands of the state".
"There will be no more unregulated weapons," he pledged.
Western powers and Syria's neighbours have emphasised the need for unity in the new Syria, which is seeking funds for reconstructing a nation ravaged by years of war under Assad.
<h2>'Premeditated'&nbsp;</h2>
The Britain-based Observatory said "five separate massacres" left 162 civilians dead, including women and children, in Syria's coastal region on Friday.
"The vast majority of the victims were summarily executed by elements affiliated to the Ministry of Defence and the Interior," both under the Islamist-led authorities' control, the rights group said.
The Observatory and activists released footage showing dozens of bodies in civilian clothing piled outside a house, with blood stains nearby and women wailing.
Other videos appeared to show men in military garb shooting people at close range.
AFP could not independently verify the images.
The United Nations envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, decried "very troubling reports of civilian casualties".
He called on all sides to refrain from actions which could "destabilise Syria, and jeopardise a credible and inclusive political transition".
An interior ministry source quoted by official news agency SANA said isolated incidents had occurred on the coast and pledged to put a stop to them.
Authorities launched a sweeping security operation after Thursday's clashes, which the Observatory said left 78 people dead, including gunmen, security force members and civilians.
Mustafa Kneifati, a security official in Latakia, said pro-Assad militia fighters carried out "a well-planned and premeditated attack" on government forces' positions and patrols around the coastal town of Jableh.
<h2>Curfews</h2>
A curfew was imposed until Saturday in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, heartland of the ousted president's Alawite religious minority, and authorities on Friday announced a security sweep in the Jableh area, between the two provinces.
Officials blamed "sabotage" for a power outage that affected much of Latakia province.
A curfew has also been imposed in Syria's confessionally divided third city Homs.
The security operation "targeted remnants of Assad's militias and those who supported them", an official cited by SANA said, as he called on civilians to stay in their homes.
"All night, we heard the sounds of gunfire and explosions," said Ali, a farmer living in Jableh, describing the urban battles in his area.
"Everyone's afraid... we are trapped at home and we can't go out."
<h2>'Under attack'</h2>
Earlier in the week, the Observatory reported four civilians killed in a security operation in the Latakia area, where state media had said "militia remnants" supporting Assad killed two security personnel in an ambush.
"Both sides feel like they're under attack, both sides have suffered horrific abuses at the hands of the other side, and both sides are armed," Syria expert Aron Lund, a fellow at the Century International think tank, told AFP.
Forces led by Sharaa's Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched the offensive that toppled Assad on December 8, when he fled to Russia with his family.
Syria's new security forces have since carried out extensive campaigns seeking to root out Assad loyalists from his former bastions.
During those campaigns, residents and organisations have reported executions and other violations, which the authorities have described as "isolated incidents".
Russia, Assad's main backer that helped turn the tide of the war in his favour before he was toppled, called on Syrian authorities to "put an end to the bloodshed as soon as possible".
Iran, another major ally of Assad, said it strongly opposes "harming innocent Syrian people from any group and tribe".
Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey have reaffirmed their support for the new authorities, while Jordan condemned "attempts to drive Syria toward anarchy".
The United Arab Emirates also condemned the attacks by armed groups against Syrian security forces.&nbsp;
Germany meanwhile urged Syria's authorities to avoid a "spiral of violence".
The 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on Friday readmitted Syria, which was suspended in 2012, early in the civil war under Assad, following the long-time ruler's toppling.
"This decision represents an important step towards Syria's return to the regional and international communities as a free and just state," a Syrian foreign ministry statement said.
(With inputs from agencies)

After over 250 deaths, Syria's new leadership, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, issues a bold ultimatum to Alawite insurgents, urging them to surrender and lay down arms.

Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa on Friday urged insurgents from ousted president Bashar al-Assad's Alawite minority to lay down their arms and surrender after the fiercest attacks on the war-torn country's new rulers yet. The warning came as Syria's security forces "executed" 162 Alawites on Friday, according to a Syrian war monitor, in a massive operation in the ethnic group's Mediterranean heartland triggered by deadly clashes with gunmen loyal to Assad the day before. "You attacked all Syrians and made an unforgivable mistake. The riposte has come, and you have not been able to withstand it," Sharaa said in a speech broadcast on Telegram by the Syrian presidency. "Lay down your weapons and surrender before it's too late." More than 250 people have been killed since the clashes erupted on Thursday along the country's western coast, which followed other deadly incidents in the area this week, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Restoring security has been one of the most complex tasks for Syria's new authorities, installed after Islamist-led forces ousted Assad in a lightning offensive in December. In his Friday address, Sharaa, who headed the coalition that forced out Assad, also vowed to keep working towards "monopolising weapons in the hands of the state". "There will be no more unregulated weapons," he pledged. Western powers and Syria's neighbours have emphasised the need for unity in the new Syria, which is seeking funds for reconstructing a nation ravaged by years of war under Assad. 'Premeditated' The Britain-based Observatory said "five separate massacres" left 162 civilians dead, including women and children, in Syria's coastal region on Friday. "The vast majority of the victims were summarily executed by elements affiliated to the Ministry of Defence and the Interior," both under the Islamist-led authorities' control, the rights group said. The Observatory and activists released footage showing dozens of bodies in civilian clothing piled outside a house, with blood stains nearby and women wailing. Other videos appeared to show men in military garb shooting people at close range. AFP could not independently verify the images. The United Nations envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, decried "very troubling reports of civilian casualties". He called on all sides to refrain from actions which could "destabilise Syria, and jeopardise a credible and inclusive political transition". An interior ministry source quoted by official news agency SANA said isolated incidents had occurred on the coast and pledged to put a stop to them. Authorities launched a sweeping security operation after Thursday's clashes, which the Observatory said left 78 people dead, including gunmen, security force members and civilians. Mustafa Kneifati, a security official in Latakia, said pro-Assad militia fighters carried out "a well-planned and premeditated attack" on government forces' positions and patrols around the coastal town of Jableh. Curfews A curfew was imposed until Saturday in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, heartland of the ousted president's Alawite religious minority, and authorities on Friday announced a security sweep in the Jableh area, between the two provinces. Officials blamed "sabotage" for a power outage that affected much of Latakia province. A curfew has also been imposed in Syria's confessionally divided third city Homs. The security operation "targeted remnants of Assad's militias and those who supported them", an official cited by SANA said, as he called on civilians to stay in their homes. "All night, we heard the sounds of gunfire and explosions," said Ali, a farmer living in Jableh, describing the urban battles in his area. "Everyone's afraid... we are trapped at home and we can't go out." 'Under attack' Earlier in the week, the Observatory reported four civilians killed in a security operation in the Latakia area, where state media had said "militia remnants" supporting Assad killed two security personnel in an ambush. "Both sides feel like they're under attack, both sides have suffered horrific abuses at the hands of the other side, and both sides are armed," Syria expert Aron Lund, a fellow at the Century International think tank, told AFP. Forces led by Sharaa's Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched the offensive that toppled Assad on December 8, when he fled to Russia with his family. Syria's new security forces have since carried out extensive campaigns seeking to root out Assad loyalists from his former bastions. During those campaigns, residents and organisations have reported executions and other violations, which the authorities have described as "isolated incidents". Russia, Assad's main backer that helped turn the tide of the war in his favour before he was toppled, called on Syrian authorities to "put an end to the bloodshed as soon as possible". Iran, another major ally of Assad, said it strongly opposes "harming innocent Syrian people from any group and tribe". Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey have reaffirmed their support for the new authorities, while Jordan condemned "attempts to drive Syria toward anarchy". The United Arab Emirates also condemned the attacks by armed groups against Syrian security forces. Germany meanwhile urged Syria's authorities to avoid a "spiral of violence". The 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on Friday readmitted Syria, which was suspended in 2012, early in the civil war under Assad, following the long-time ruler's toppling. "This decision represents an important step towards Syria's return to the regional and international communities as a free and just state," a Syrian foreign ministry statement said. (With inputs from agencies)

Syria’s new leaders issue stark ultimatum after over 250 deaths, urge Alawites to surrender

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