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The competition between the top AI labs has stopped being only about capability. On Tuesday it became explicitly about price, and the timing left no doubt it was deliberate.&nbsp;Anthropic released Claude Opus 5.5. Within hours, OpenAI released two new models, GPT-6 Sol and GPT-6 Luna — and priced them to undercut, precisely.&nbsp;The Numbers&nbsp;Anthropic set Opus 5.5 at $4 per million input tokens and $20 per million output tokens, about 20 per cent below its previous rates.&nbsp;OpenAI set GPT-6 Sol at $2 per million input and $10 per million output — exactly half of Opus 5.5, on both figures. Its budget model, GPT-6 Luna, came in at $0.10 input and $0.50 output, undercutting the low-cost open-weight models from China that had competed mainly on price. In one announcement, OpenAI moved against a premium rival and a cheap one at once.&nbsp;Why 'Exactly Half' Is A Message&nbsp;Pricing a product at precisely half a competitor's, on the same day that competitor launches, is not a coincidence of cost accounting. It is a signal aimed at the people who pay AI bills.&nbsp;It tells buyers there is no price reason to prefer the rival, and it tells the rival that OpenAI will use its scale and capital to set the ceiling. OpenAI is the most valuable private AI company in the world, and it is spending some of that advantage on making capability cheap enough that price stops being a reason to shop elsewhere.&nbsp;What It Means For Buyers&nbsp;For anyone building on these models, this is straightforwardly good in the short term.&nbsp;The cost of frontier-level AI is falling fast, and falling because the largest player has decided to compete on it. Tasks that were marginal at last year's prices become viable at this year's. A company comparing providers now has genuine leverage, because nobody can afford to be the expensive option.&nbsp;The Question Underneath&nbsp;The harder question is whether prices this low are sustainable, and it deserves scepticism rather than celebration.&nbsp;Running these models costs real money — in chips, power and data-centre capacity — and the companies setting these prices are, for the most part, not yet profitable on the underlying economics. Pricing at half a competitor can be a durable advantage built on genuine efficiency, or it can be a subsidy funded by investors betting on future dominance. From the outside, the two look identical until the funding environment changes.&nbsp;History offers the caution. Markets where a dominant player prices below cost to win share tend to see prices rise once the field has thinned. Cheap frontier AI is a real benefit today; assuming it is permanent is a different bet.&nbsp;The Context That Makes It Sharper&nbsp;This price war arrives as both OpenAI and Anthropic move toward public listings, each valued privately near a trillion dollars.&nbsp;A company about to sell shares has reason to demonstrate dominance, and undercutting a rival on launch day is a vivid way to do it. Some of this pricing serves the customer; some of it serves the story the sellers need to tell investors. Telling the two apart is now part of a buyer's job.&nbsp;What To Watch&nbsp;Whether prices keep falling or stabilise once the launch dust settles. Whether the cuts pressure the open-weight model makers, whose main advantage was cost, into a corner. And whether any of these rates rise after the IPOs, when the pressure shifts from winning share to showing profit.

Anthropic shipped Claude Opus 5.5 at $4/$20; hours later OpenAI's GPT-6 Sol landed at exactly half, $2/$10, and its budget Luna undercut DeepSeek. The model race is now an open price war — with buyers the near-term winners.

The competition between the top AI labs has stopped being only about capability. On Tuesday it became explicitly about price, and the timing left no doubt it was deliberate. Anthropic released Claude Opus 5.5. Within hours, OpenAI released two new models, GPT-6 Sol and GPT-6 Luna — and priced them to undercut, precisely. The Numbers Anthropic set Opus 5.5 at $4 per million input tokens and $20 per million output tokens, about 20 per cent below its previous rates. OpenAI set GPT-6 Sol at $2 per million input and $10 per million output — exactly half of Opus 5.5, on both figures. Its budget model, GPT-6 Luna, came in at $0.10 input and $0.50 output, undercutting the low-cost open-weight models from China that had competed mainly on price. In one announcement, OpenAI moved against a premium rival and a cheap one at once. Why 'Exactly Half' Is A Message Pricing a product at precisely half a competitor's, on the same day that competitor launches, is not a coincidence of cost accounting. It is a signal aimed at the people who pay AI bills. It tells buyers there is no price reason to prefer the rival, and it tells the rival that OpenAI will use its scale and capital to set the ceiling. OpenAI is the most valuable private AI company in the world, and it is spending some of that advantage on making capability cheap enough that price stops being a reason to shop elsewhere. What It Means For Buyers For anyone building on these models, this is straightforwardly good in the short term. The cost of frontier-level AI is falling fast, and falling because the largest player has decided to compete on it. Tasks that were marginal at last year's prices become viable at this year's. A company comparing providers now has genuine leverage, because nobody can afford to be the expensive option. The Question Underneath The harder question is whether prices this low are sustainable, and it deserves scepticism rather than celebration. Running these models costs real money — in chips, power and data-centre capacity — and the companies setting these prices are, for the most part, not yet profitable on the underlying economics. Pricing at half a competitor can be a durable advantage built on genuine efficiency, or it can be a subsidy funded by investors betting on future dominance. From the outside, the two look identical until the funding environment changes. History offers the caution. Markets where a dominant player prices below cost to win share tend to see prices rise once the field has thinned. Cheap frontier AI is a real benefit today; assuming it is permanent is a different bet. The Context That Makes It Sharper This price war arrives as both OpenAI and Anthropic move toward public listings, each valued privately near a trillion dollars. A company about to sell shares has reason to demonstrate dominance, and undercutting a rival on launch day is a vivid way to do it. Some of this pricing serves the customer; some of it serves the story the sellers need to tell investors. Telling the two apart is now part of a buyer's job. What To Watch Whether prices keep falling or stabilise once the launch dust settles. Whether the cuts pressure the open-weight model makers, whose main advantage was cost, into a corner. And whether any of these rates rise after the IPOs, when the pressure shifts from winning share to showing profit.

On the same day, Anthropic released Claude Opus 5.5 and OpenAI released GPT-6 Sol and Luna. OpenAI priced Sol at exactly half of Opus 5.5 on both input and output tokens, and priced its budget model below DeepSeek's open-weight offering. It has turned the frontier model race into an open price war, and buyers are the immediate winners.

OpenAI priced its new model at exactly half of Anthropic's, hours after Anthropic launched

Reporters from CNN, MS NOW and Politico were barred from entering the White House on Thursday (Sept 24) despite a federal court ordering the Trump administration to restore their access. The three media organisations said their journalists were stopped by the Secret Service when they tried to enter the presidential mansion.&nbsp;The development came hours after a District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled that the outlets, which were banned by President Donald Trump last week, should have their White House access restored immediately.&nbsp;Kelly said the decision to revoke the press credentials of the three media organisations "likely violated their constitutional due process rights."&nbsp;"The 'general rule' is that 'individuals must receive notice and an opportunity to be heard before the Government deprives them' of a constitutionally protected interest," Kelly wrote.&nbsp;Following the denial of White House entry, the media house requested an urgent court hearing on Thursday.&nbsp;"This morning journalists from each of CNN, MS NOW, and Politico attempted to enter the White House and were turned away," the news outlets said in a court filing.<h2>Trump announces White House ban</h2>Trump has long been at odds with the media and has accused outlets critical of him of biased reporting. He has also described some media organisations as the "enemy of the people."&nbsp;On September 18, Trump announced that CNN, MS NOW and Politico would be barred from the White House, accusing the three outlets of repeatedly publishing what he called “FAKE NEWS”.&nbsp;Trump made the announcement in a post on Truth Social and said the ban would take effect immediately. He also warned that “other Fake News Media Outlets will follow”.&nbsp;“I am proud to announce that, effective immediately, I am banning Fake News CNN, MSNOW... and Politico... from the White House as a result of their constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS!” Trump said.&nbsp;A day later, on September 19, Secret Service and White House staff deactivated the journalists' credentials and confiscated press passes belonging to reporters from the three outlets as they attempted to enter the White House complex.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-does-anti-incumbency-disappear-rahul-gandhi-alleges-vote-chori-calls-for-cec-s-resignation-1790252100302">‘How does anti-incumbency disappear?’: Rahul Gandhi alleges ‘vote chori’, calls for CEC’s resignation</a><h2>Media outlets challenge Trump's decision</h2>On September 21, CNN, MS NOW and Politico filed a joint emergency lawsuit against the Trump administration in the US District Court for the District of Columbia.&nbsp;The three organisations argued that the ban violated First Amendment protections for press freedom against viewpoint retaliation. They also said it violated their Fifth Amendment due process rights.&nbsp;During a hearing on September 23, US Justice Department lawyers defended Trump's decision to bar the three outlets from the White House. They argued that the move was legally justified by concerns related to national security and journalistic conduct.&nbsp;“Access to the White House is a privilege, not a right,” Justice Department lawyers wrote.On September 24, Judge Timothy Kelly issued a 14-day temporary restraining order requiring the administration to immediately restore full press credentials for journalists from the three media organisations.&nbsp;Despite the court order, CNN, MS NOW and Politico said their reporters were turned away by the Secret Service when they attempted to enter the White House on Thursday.

CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters were turned away from the White House despite a federal judge ordering the Trump administration to restore their press credentials, prompting the media houses to seek an urgent court hearing on Thursday.

Reporters from CNN, MS NOW and Politico were barred from entering the White House on Thursday (Sept 24) despite a federal court ordering the Trump administration to restore their access. The three media organisations said their journalists were stopped by the Secret Service when they tried to enter the presidential mansion. The development came hours after a District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled that the outlets, which were banned by President Donald Trump last week, should have their White House access restored immediately. Kelly said the decision to revoke the press credentials of the three media organisations "likely violated their constitutional due process rights." "The 'general rule' is that 'individuals must receive notice and an opportunity to be heard before the Government deprives them' of a constitutionally protected interest," Kelly wrote. Following the denial of White House entry, the media house requested an urgent court hearing on Thursday. "This morning journalists from each of CNN, MS NOW, and Politico attempted to enter the White House and were turned away," the news outlets said in a court filing. Trump announces White House ban Trump has long been at odds with the media and has accused outlets critical of him of biased reporting. He has also described some media organisations as the "enemy of the people." On September 18, Trump announced that CNN, MS NOW and Politico would be barred from the White House, accusing the three outlets of repeatedly publishing what he called “FAKE NEWS”. Trump made the announcement in a post on Truth Social and said the ban would take effect immediately. He also warned that “other Fake News Media Outlets will follow”. “I am proud to announce that, effective immediately, I am banning Fake News CNN, MSNOW... and Politico... from the White House as a result of their constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS!” Trump said. A day later, on September 19, Secret Service and White House staff deactivated the journalists' credentials and confiscated press passes belonging to reporters from the three outlets as they attempted to enter the White House complex. Also Read: ‘How does anti-incumbency disappear?’: Rahul Gandhi alleges ‘vote chori’, calls for CEC’s resignation Media outlets challenge Trump's decision On September 21, CNN, MS NOW and Politico filed a joint emergency lawsuit against the Trump administration in the US District Court for the District of Columbia. The three organisations argued that the ban violated First Amendment protections for press freedom against viewpoint retaliation. They also said it violated their Fifth Amendment due process rights. During a hearing on September 23, US Justice Department lawyers defended Trump's decision to bar the three outlets from the White House. They argued that the move was legally justified by concerns related to national security and journalistic conduct. “Access to the White House is a privilege, not a right,” Justice Department lawyers wrote. On September 24, Judge Timothy Kelly issued a 14-day temporary restraining order requiring the administration to immediately restore full press credentials for journalists from the three media organisations. Despite the court order, CNN, MS NOW and Politico said their reporters were turned away by the Secret Service when they attempted to enter the White House on Thursday.

CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters were turned away from the White House despite a federal judge ordering the Trump administration to restore their press credentials, prompting the media houses to seek an urgent court hearing on Thursday.

White House turns away CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters despite jugde order restoring access

The United Arab Emirates has suspended all flights operated by Iranian airlines in compliance with the economic sanctions imposed by the United States, reported Iranian media on Thursday. “All flights by Iranian airlines to the United Arab Emirates have been cancelled since midnight,” the ISNA news agency reported.As a consequence of the halting, an Iran Airtour flight from Tehran to Dubai faced cancellation shortly before its departure.&nbsp;US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had announced new measures earlier this week as part of an earlier threat to impose “economic D-Day” on Iran under ‘Operation Economic Outcast’.&nbsp;On September 8, the Trump administration had designated 27 airlines covering the remaining Iranian carriers that had not previously been sanctioned by Washington. The designations also targeted individuals and entities linked to aviation support and procurement in the UAE, Turkey, China, India, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and elsewhere.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-issues-potential-danger-warning-for-mecca-second-time-in-a-month-1790252705272">Saudi Arabia issues ‘potential danger’ warning for Mecca, second time in a month</a>&nbsp;Trump has sought to exert financial strain on the Iranian regime to force it into submission for ending the West Asia crisis.&nbsp;After the latest measures were announced, Iranian airlines cancelled some international flights on Wednesday after Georgia and Azerbaijan officially confirmed suspending flights to and from Iran.Flights to Baghdad, Muscat, and Qatar were also halted, reported Iranian media.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Baghdad, Muscat will no longer accept Iran flights’</h2>&nbsp;Baghdad and Muscat airports “will no longer accept” Iran flights, reported Tasnim news agency, citing a civil aviation spokesperson.&nbsp;Meanwhile, despite the sanctions taking effect on Wednesday, Iranian airlines continued to operate some international flights. According to data by flight tracking site Flightradar24, at least half a dozen flights travelled from Iran to destinations including Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand; Shanghai; and Kabul, Afghanistan.&nbsp;Iran’s biggest airport, the Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran, has flights scheduled to international destinations such as China, Turkey, and Dubai, as well as Najaf in Iraq.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-to-reach-indian-ocean-mojtaba-s-adviser-issues-chilling-warning-to-us-1790249334403">Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US</a>&nbsp;The latest development comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new measures aimed at Iranian aviation. Washington has warned that companies providing services such as fuel, landing assistance, and other support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions.&nbsp;Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Iran issues warning, says countries could face reciprocal consequences</h2>&nbsp;Iranian media reports came as airlines operating from Iran faced increasing difficulties accessing international aviation services following the latest US measures.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The growing restrictions have also triggered a warning from Iran. Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said neighbouring countries could face reciprocal consequences if they cooperated with Washington by stopping Iranian flights.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-defends-trump-iran-annihilate-threat-pezeshkian-un-1790248735509">Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat</a>&nbsp;“If a country cooperates with or embarks on adventures with the United States, its airports will no longer be able to operate flights to Iran,” he said in an interview with Iranian state television.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said sanctions would only strengthen Iran’s resistance to US pressure.

Washington warned that companies providing services and support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on.

The United Arab Emirates has suspended all flights operated by Iranian airlines in compliance with the economic sanctions imposed by the United States, reported Iranian media on Thursday. “All flights by Iranian airlines to the United Arab Emirates have been cancelled since midnight,” the ISNA news agency reported. As a consequence of the halting, an Iran Airtour flight from Tehran to Dubai faced cancellation shortly before its departure. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had announced new measures earlier this week as part of an earlier threat to impose “economic D-Day” on Iran under ‘Operation Economic Outcast’. On September 8, the Trump administration had designated 27 airlines covering the remaining Iranian carriers that had not previously been sanctioned by Washington. The designations also targeted individuals and entities linked to aviation support and procurement in the UAE, Turkey, China, India, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and elsewhere. Also Read: Saudi Arabia issues ‘potential danger’ warning for Mecca, second time in a month Trump has sought to exert financial strain on the Iranian regime to force it into submission for ending the West Asia crisis. After the latest measures were announced, Iranian airlines cancelled some international flights on Wednesday after Georgia and Azerbaijan officially confirmed suspending flights to and from Iran. Flights to Baghdad, Muscat, and Qatar were also halted, reported Iranian media. ‘Baghdad, Muscat will no longer accept Iran flights’ Baghdad and Muscat airports “will no longer accept” Iran flights, reported Tasnim news agency, citing a civil aviation spokesperson. Meanwhile, despite the sanctions taking effect on Wednesday, Iranian airlines continued to operate some international flights. According to data by flight tracking site Flightradar24, at least half a dozen flights travelled from Iran to destinations including Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand; Shanghai; and Kabul, Afghanistan. Iran’s biggest airport, the Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran, has flights scheduled to international destinations such as China, Turkey, and Dubai, as well as Najaf in Iraq. Also Read: Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US The latest development comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new measures aimed at Iranian aviation. Washington has warned that companies providing services such as fuel, landing assistance, and other support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions. Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on. Iran issues warning, says countries could face reciprocal consequences Iranian media reports came as airlines operating from Iran faced increasing difficulties accessing international aviation services following the latest US measures. The growing restrictions have also triggered a warning from Iran. Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said neighbouring countries could face reciprocal consequences if they cooperated with Washington by stopping Iranian flights. Also Read: Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat “If a country cooperates with or embarks on adventures with the United States, its airports will no longer be able to operate flights to Iran,” he said in an interview with Iranian state television. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said sanctions would only strengthen Iran’s resistance to US pressure.

Washington warned that companies providing services and support to Iranian airlines could face US sanctions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US intends to effectively shut down Iranian carriers by targeting the international aviation infrastructure they depend on.

UAE suspends all Iranian airline flights as US sanctions come into effect

Malware has always needed a human somewhere behind it — an operator sending commands, deciding the next move. Researchers say they have now found a piece of malware built to do without one.&nbsp;Cisco Talos, the security arm of Cisco, has disclosed a Windows implant it calls CLOSEDQUORUM, describing it as the first publicly documented malware to apply AI to its own command-and-control — the part of an attack that decides what to do next.&nbsp;How It Works&nbsp;The design is the story. Once CLOSEDQUORUM is on a machine, it does not wait for orders from an attacker-run server. It delegates the choice of its next action to a panel of commercial AI models and then carries out whatever they decide.&nbsp;The panel — the 'quorum' in the name — draws on up to four AI providers: DeepSeek, Qwen, Mistral and Google's Gemini. The stated goal of the malware is ordinary enough: stealing user credentials and cryptocurrency wallets. What is new is who is steering.&nbsp;Why 'No Human' Matters&nbsp;Removing the operator changes the economics and the defence of an attack.&nbsp;A traditional attack has a bottleneck: a human has to be in the loop, issuing commands, which limits how many targets one attacker can run and creates a server that defenders can find and cut off. An implant that reasons for itself needs neither. It can adapt on the machine, and there is no central command server whose disconnection stops it.&nbsp;Talos frames this as a shift in 'effort displacement' — more of the attack chain running without a person involved. That is the same efficiency gain AI brings to legitimate work, pointed the other way.&nbsp;The Important Caveats&nbsp;This is where careful reading matters, because 'autonomous AI malware' is a phrase built to alarm.&nbsp;Talos says there is no confirmation the implant has been deployed against real victims. It was analysed as a binary — a built piece of software — not caught mid-attack. The researchers connected artefacts in it to criminal-forum postings on payment-card fraud dating to 2025, which suggests a real author with criminal intent, but it stops short of a confirmed live campaign.&nbsp;So the honest description is a working proof of concept with a plausible criminal origin, not a documented outbreak. That is significant, but it is not the same as an attack in progress, and the distinction should survive into any coverage.&nbsp;There Is Also A Weakness In The Design&nbsp;Delegating to commercial AI models is not a free win for the attacker, and this cuts in defenders' favour.&nbsp;To consult those models, the malware has to reach their services, carry prompts, use API keys and speak their protocols — and every one of those is a fingerprint. Alongside the disclosure, Talos released an open-source tool that hunts for exactly these traces: embedded prompts, provider endpoints, API-key patterns and tell-tale AI syntax inside files. An attack that phones a chatbot for instructions leaves a trail an attack with a human operator does not.&nbsp;What To Watch&nbsp;Whether any confirmed CLOSEDQUORUM infections appear, which would move this from proof of concept to live threat. Whether the AI providers named can detect and cut off malware using their models, since the implant depends on their services to function. And whether defenders adopt tools that look for AI's fingerprints in code — because the same dependency that makes this malware autonomous is also what gives it away.

Cisco Talos disclosed CLOSEDQUORUM, which it calls the first malware to run its command-and-control autonomously, delegating each decision to DeepSeek, Qwen, Mistral and Gemini. No live campaign is confirmed yet.

Malware has always needed a human somewhere behind it — an operator sending commands, deciding the next move. Researchers say they have now found a piece of malware built to do without one. Cisco Talos, the security arm of Cisco, has disclosed a Windows implant it calls CLOSEDQUORUM, describing it as the first publicly documented malware to apply AI to its own command-and-control — the part of an attack that decides what to do next. How It Works The design is the story. Once CLOSEDQUORUM is on a machine, it does not wait for orders from an attacker-run server. It delegates the choice of its next action to a panel of commercial AI models and then carries out whatever they decide. The panel — the 'quorum' in the name — draws on up to four AI providers: DeepSeek, Qwen, Mistral and Google's Gemini. The stated goal of the malware is ordinary enough: stealing user credentials and cryptocurrency wallets. What is new is who is steering. Why 'No Human' Matters Removing the operator changes the economics and the defence of an attack. A traditional attack has a bottleneck: a human has to be in the loop, issuing commands, which limits how many targets one attacker can run and creates a server that defenders can find and cut off. An implant that reasons for itself needs neither. It can adapt on the machine, and there is no central command server whose disconnection stops it. Talos frames this as a shift in 'effort displacement' — more of the attack chain running without a person involved. That is the same efficiency gain AI brings to legitimate work, pointed the other way. The Important Caveats This is where careful reading matters, because 'autonomous AI malware' is a phrase built to alarm. Talos says there is no confirmation the implant has been deployed against real victims. It was analysed as a binary — a built piece of software — not caught mid-attack. The researchers connected artefacts in it to criminal-forum postings on payment-card fraud dating to 2025, which suggests a real author with criminal intent, but it stops short of a confirmed live campaign. So the honest description is a working proof of concept with a plausible criminal origin, not a documented outbreak. That is significant, but it is not the same as an attack in progress, and the distinction should survive into any coverage. There Is Also A Weakness In The Design Delegating to commercial AI models is not a free win for the attacker, and this cuts in defenders' favour. To consult those models, the malware has to reach their services, carry prompts, use API keys and speak their protocols — and every one of those is a fingerprint. Alongside the disclosure, Talos released an open-source tool that hunts for exactly these traces: embedded prompts, provider endpoints, API-key patterns and tell-tale AI syntax inside files. An attack that phones a chatbot for instructions leaves a trail an attack with a human operator does not. What To Watch Whether any confirmed CLOSEDQUORUM infections appear, which would move this from proof of concept to live threat. Whether the AI providers named can detect and cut off malware using their models, since the implant depends on their services to function. And whether defenders adopt tools that look for AI's fingerprints in code — because the same dependency that makes this malware autonomous is also what gives it away.

Cisco Talos has disclosed CLOSEDQUORUM, which it calls the first documented malware implant to run its command-and-control fully autonomously. Instead of taking instructions from a human attacker, it delegates each decision to a panel of up to four commercial AI models. There is no confirmed use in the wild yet — but the design removes the human operator from the attack.

Researchers found malware that takes its orders from a committee of four AIs, with no human

The clearest split in AI policy right now is not between countries. It is between the president of the United States and the companies building the technology, and it played out at the United Nations over two days.&nbsp;In his address to the UN General Assembly, President Donald Trump rejected international oversight of artificial intelligence — which he said the US will henceforth call 'superintelligence' — describing efforts to coordinate control of it as a 'globalist scheme'.&nbsp;The next day, the chief executives of America's two most prominent AI labs went to the same institution to ask for the opposite.&nbsp;The Two Positions&nbsp;Anthropic's Dario Amodei and OpenAI's Sam Altman were scheduled to brief the UN Security Council at a session on AI and international security, convened by France.&nbsp;According to their companies, they went to discuss safety work and the importance of international cooperation — the coordinated, cross-border approach to managing AI risk that the president had dismissed a day earlier. An OpenAI spokesperson said Altman would stress exactly that cooperation.&nbsp;So within 24 hours, at one building, the American government argued that international AI governance is a threat to be resisted, and American industry argued it is a necessity to be built.&nbsp;Why This Reversal Of Roles Is Notable&nbsp;The usual script has technology companies resisting regulation and governments pushing for it. Here the roles are inverted, and that is worth sitting with.&nbsp;The AI labs asking for oversight is not pure altruism — a coordinated international framework can also lock in incumbents, set rules that favour those already at the frontier, and lend legitimacy to companies facing public unease. Support for governance can be self-interested.&nbsp;But it is still striking that the companies with the most to lose from restriction are the ones requesting it, while the government that would impose it is refusing. Whatever the motives, the alignment is unusual, and it leaves the US speaking with two opposed voices on the world stage.&nbsp;The Rebranding&nbsp;The move to call AI 'superintelligence' deserves a note of its own, because language is doing work here.&nbsp;'Superintelligence' is a term of art that usually means AI surpassing human ability across the board — a future, hypothetical capability. Applying it to current systems as a national branding choice inflates what today's tools are, and does so at the moment the administration is arguing they need no international check. A more powerful-sounding technology that also needs no oversight is a convenient combination to assert.&nbsp;What The Split Means In Practice&nbsp;The disagreement is not academic. International AI governance, if it happens, runs through exactly the kind of UN process on display here, and it needs the participation of the country where most frontier models are built.&nbsp;If the US government resists while US companies participate, the result is likely to be governance without teeth — forums the labs attend voluntarily and the state does not underwrite. That is a weaker arrangement than either side, on its own terms, might want, and it is the most probable outcome of a government and an industry pulling in opposite directions.&nbsp;What To Watch&nbsp;Whether the administration hardens its opposition into policy that constrains what US companies can agree to internationally. Whether other governments proceed with coordination that excludes or works around Washington. And whether the labs' stated support for oversight survives contact with rules that would actually bind them — because asking for governance in principle is easier than accepting it in detail.

Trump rejected international AI oversight as a 'globalist scheme' at the UN and said the US will call AI 'superintelligence'. A day later Anthropic's Amodei and OpenAI's Altman briefed the Security Council asking for cooperation.

The clearest split in AI policy right now is not between countries. It is between the president of the United States and the companies building the technology, and it played out at the United Nations over two days. In his address to the UN General Assembly, President Donald Trump rejected international oversight of artificial intelligence — which he said the US will henceforth call 'superintelligence' — describing efforts to coordinate control of it as a 'globalist scheme'. The next day, the chief executives of America's two most prominent AI labs went to the same institution to ask for the opposite. The Two Positions Anthropic's Dario Amodei and OpenAI's Sam Altman were scheduled to brief the UN Security Council at a session on AI and international security, convened by France. According to their companies, they went to discuss safety work and the importance of international cooperation — the coordinated, cross-border approach to managing AI risk that the president had dismissed a day earlier. An OpenAI spokesperson said Altman would stress exactly that cooperation. So within 24 hours, at one building, the American government argued that international AI governance is a threat to be resisted, and American industry argued it is a necessity to be built. Why This Reversal Of Roles Is Notable The usual script has technology companies resisting regulation and governments pushing for it. Here the roles are inverted, and that is worth sitting with. The AI labs asking for oversight is not pure altruism — a coordinated international framework can also lock in incumbents, set rules that favour those already at the frontier, and lend legitimacy to companies facing public unease. Support for governance can be self-interested. But it is still striking that the companies with the most to lose from restriction are the ones requesting it, while the government that would impose it is refusing. Whatever the motives, the alignment is unusual, and it leaves the US speaking with two opposed voices on the world stage. The Rebranding The move to call AI 'superintelligence' deserves a note of its own, because language is doing work here. 'Superintelligence' is a term of art that usually means AI surpassing human ability across the board — a future, hypothetical capability. Applying it to current systems as a national branding choice inflates what today's tools are, and does so at the moment the administration is arguing they need no international check. A more powerful-sounding technology that also needs no oversight is a convenient combination to assert. What The Split Means In Practice The disagreement is not academic. International AI governance, if it happens, runs through exactly the kind of UN process on display here, and it needs the participation of the country where most frontier models are built. If the US government resists while US companies participate, the result is likely to be governance without teeth — forums the labs attend voluntarily and the state does not underwrite. That is a weaker arrangement than either side, on its own terms, might want, and it is the most probable outcome of a government and an industry pulling in opposite directions. What To Watch Whether the administration hardens its opposition into policy that constrains what US companies can agree to internationally. Whether other governments proceed with coordination that excludes or works around Washington. And whether the labs' stated support for oversight survives contact with rules that would actually bind them — because asking for governance in principle is easier than accepting it in detail.

At the UN General Assembly, President Trump rejected international oversight of AI — which he said the US will now call ‘superintelligence’ — as a ‘globalist scheme’. A day later, the heads of America's two leading AI labs, Anthropic's Dario Amodei and OpenAI's Sam Altman, briefed the UN Security Council to ask for exactly the kind of cooperation he dismissed.

Trump called AI oversight a 'globalist scheme'. A day later two US AI chiefs asked the UN for it

At least six people were killed and 12 others injured after Russian forces struck an agricultural facility in Ukraine's northern Kharkiv region on Thursday (September 24), according to regional governor Oleh Syniehubov. The attack took place in the village of Stara Hnylytsia in the Chuhuiv district in the morning, Syniehubov said in a Telegram post. The dead included two men and four women. The injured were also workers at the farm and are receiving medical treatment.<h2>What happened at the farm?</h2>Mykola Semerianov, head of the Malynivka settlement, told Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne that Russian forces attacked the area with Banderol missiles. One of the projectiles struck a vegetable storage facility where workers were inside sorting vegetables, he said.&nbsp;Four of those injured were reported to be in serious condition, with head and neck injuries, according to Viktor Zabashta, director of the regional emergency medical care centre. &nbsp;Ukrainian authorities initially reported seven deaths in the attack before revising the toll to six.<h2>Deadly Russian strikes on Kyiv</h2>The farm attack came as Russia also launched a major overnight attack on Kyiv. Two people were killed and several others injured after ballistic missiles struck the Ukrainian capital, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko and city authorities. Debris from the attack fell across several districts, damaging buildings and vehicles. &nbsp;Reuters reported that one of those killed was in a car park near a maternity hospital, which was also damaged in the attack.&nbsp;Ukraine said Russia used ballistic missiles, drones and other weapons in the overnight assault. The attacks caused damage across parts of the capital as emergency services responded to the strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A Russian missile strike on a Kharkiv farm vegetable storage facility killed six workers and injured twelve. A concurrent overnight assault using missiles and drones on Kyiv killed two people.

At least six people were killed and 12 others injured after Russian forces struck an agricultural facility in Ukraine's northern Kharkiv region on Thursday (September 24), according to regional governor Oleh Syniehubov. The attack took place in the village of Stara Hnylytsia in the Chuhuiv district in the morning, Syniehubov said in a Telegram post. The dead included two men and four women. The injured were also workers at the farm and are receiving medical treatment. What happened at the farm? Mykola Semerianov, head of the Malynivka settlement, told Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne that Russian forces attacked the area with Banderol missiles. One of the projectiles struck a vegetable storage facility where workers were inside sorting vegetables, he said. Four of those injured were reported to be in serious condition, with head and neck injuries, according to Viktor Zabashta, director of the regional emergency medical care centre. Ukrainian authorities initially reported seven deaths in the attack before revising the toll to six. Deadly Russian strikes on Kyiv The farm attack came as Russia also launched a major overnight attack on Kyiv. Two people were killed and several others injured after ballistic missiles struck the Ukrainian capital, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko and city authorities. Debris from the attack fell across several districts, damaging buildings and vehicles. Reuters reported that one of those killed was in a car park near a maternity hospital, which was also damaged in the attack. Ukraine said Russia used ballistic missiles, drones and other weapons in the overnight assault. The attacks caused damage across parts of the capital as emergency services responded to the strikes.

A Russian missile strike on a Kharkiv farm vegetable storage facility killed six workers and injured twelve. A concurrent overnight assault using missiles and drones on Kyiv killed two people.

Russian attack on farm in Ukraine’s Kharkiv kills 6, injures 12 workers

As world leaders gather in New York for the annual United Nations General Assembly, the proceedings offer an appropriate moment to consider a transformation that goes beyond the institution itself: the changing nature of power in international affairs. The theme of this year’s General Assembly — “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all” — is particularly apt. The UN was created in 1945 as part of a new international architecture, alongside the Bretton Woods institutions, designed to replace the instability of an earlier era with rules, institutions and greater predictability. Before 1945, however, international order rested principally on great-power diplomacy. Alliances shifted, treaties were negotiated, spheres of influence were contested, and crises were often managed through conferences and bargains among the major powers. The Concert of Europe after the Napoleonic Wars was an early example. The League of Nations subsequently attempted to institutionalise collective security, but failed to prevent the descent into the Second World War. The post-1945 settlement was therefore more than the creation of new organisations. It represented a different conception of international order. Bretton Woods established the IMF and World Bank as pillars of international economic cooperation, while the UN became its principal political institution. Today, that system is under pressure. But the deeper transformation may not be simply geopolitical. We may be moving from a predominantly geopolitical world towards a world of technopolitics — a world in which technological capability itself becomes a principal source of geopolitical power. Artificial intelligence is at the centre of this transformation, but it is only one part of it. Semiconductors, computing capacity, data, robotics and humanoids, quantum technologies, biotechnology, digital currencies, communications networks and the energy required to power them are becoming strategic assets. For much of the twentieth century, territory, natural resources, industrial capacity and military power were among the principal currencies of national power. In the emerging order, control over technological ecosystems may become equally important. This is more than technology influencing geopolitics. It is the emergence of technopolitics: the capacity to develop, control and deploy critical technologies becoming an integral component of national power.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-will-consider-trump-s-g20-invitation-to-putin-eu-vows-to-keep-condemning-moscow-1790249580564">Russia will ‘consider’ Trump’s G20 invitation to Putin; EU vows to keep condemning Moscow</a>&nbsp;The change is also blurring the traditional distinction between states and corporations. A relatively small number of technology companies possess capital, data, computing infrastructure and scientific capabilities on a scale capable of influencing national power. Governments, meanwhile, increasingly regard critical technologies and the companies that develop them as instruments of economic and strategic security. The emerging order could therefore be shaped not only by states, but by states, corporations and the technological ecosystems that connect them. The United States and China are presently the two most consequential centres of this competition. Their rivalry increasingly encompasses artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors, data centres and strategic supply chains, alongside conventional trade and military competition. This does not necessarily mean the emergence of a rigid new Cold War. Economic interdependence remains substantial, and technological boundaries are unlikely to be completely sealed. Nevertheless, a form of technological G2 could emerge: two broad ecosystems centred on the United States and China, with a considerable grey zone between them. Other major powers will have to decide how they respond. Europe, India, Japan, Russia and others may align substantially with one ecosystem, seek to build independent capabilities, or pursue a hybrid approach that allows them to work with both. For India, the question is particularly consequential. India has moved closer to the United States in critical and emerging technologies while simultaneously seeking to strengthen its own technological capabilities. Its scale, scientific base, digital economy and growing technological ambitions give it the possibility of pursuing something more sophisticated than simply choosing between Washington and Beijing. The question for India is whether it can develop sufficient technological depth to become a pole in its own right while participating in both major ecosystems where its interests require it. This is not merely an economic calculation. It is a question of strategic autonomy. The implications extend beyond individual technologies. If technological capabilities become increasingly concentrated in a relatively small number of corporations and their associated states, institutions created after 1945 may increasingly struggle to reflect the actual distribution of power. The United Nations, IMF, World Bank and wider multilateral economic system were designed for a world in which states were overwhelmingly the principal repositories of strategic power. The future may be different. Power may increasingly be distributed between states and technological networks that cross national borders. This raises a difficult question for the international community now meeting in New York: will the existing multilateral order adapt to this new distribution of power, or will a period of great-power bargaining precede the creation of a new system? There is an intriguing historical possibility. The technologies transforming the twenty-first century could take us back towards a political pattern associated with an earlier age: a world in which a relatively small number of powerful actors negotiate directly over the rules of the international system. It would not be a return to the nineteenth century. Technology has changed the nature of power too profoundly for that. But the underlying political pattern could become familiar: great powers, together with their associated economic and technological interests, making arrangements among themselves, sometimes through international institutions and sometimes outside them. In that sense, the future could represent a return to the future. Yet this may be only an interregnum. The post-1945 order itself emerged because the arrangements that preceded it had proved inadequate to the realities of their time. The technological revolution may eventually require a comparable institutional response. Artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data, digital currencies and other technologies will raise questions that existing institutions were never designed to answer. The challenge is to ensure that technological power does not outrun the institutions needed to govern it. Whether the emerging order becomes more fragmented or eventually produces new forms of multilateralism remains uncertain. What is becoming clearer is that technology is no longer merely an instrument of geopolitical power. It is becoming one of its principal sources. The great strategic question of the coming decades may therefore not simply be who controls territory, resources or military power, but who controls the technologies that increasingly determine how the world itself works.

Technology is increasingly shaping global power, with the US-China rivalry, artificial intelligence, semiconductors and other emerging technologies becoming central to geopolitics and strategic choices.

As world leaders gather in New York for the annual United Nations General Assembly, the proceedings offer an appropriate moment to consider a transformation that goes beyond the institution itself: the changing nature of power in international affairs. The theme of this year’s General Assembly — “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all” — is particularly apt. The UN was created in 1945 as part of a new international architecture, alongside the Bretton Woods institutions, designed to replace the instability of an earlier era with rules, institutions and greater predictability. Before 1945, however, international order rested principally on great-power diplomacy. Alliances shifted, treaties were negotiated, spheres of influence were contested, and crises were often managed through conferences and bargains among the major powers. The Concert of Europe after the Napoleonic Wars was an early example. The League of Nations subsequently attempted to institutionalise collective security, but failed to prevent the descent into the Second World War. The post-1945 settlement was therefore more than the creation of new organisations. It represented a different conception of international order. Bretton Woods established the IMF and World Bank as pillars of international economic cooperation, while the UN became its principal political institution. Today, that system is under pressure. But the deeper transformation may not be simply geopolitical. We may be moving from a predominantly geopolitical world towards a world of technopolitics — a world in which technological capability itself becomes a principal source of geopolitical power. Artificial intelligence is at the centre of this transformation, but it is only one part of it. Semiconductors, computing capacity, data, robotics and humanoids, quantum technologies, biotechnology, digital currencies, communications networks and the energy required to power them are becoming strategic assets. For much of the twentieth century, territory, natural resources, industrial capacity and military power were among the principal currencies of national power. In the emerging order, control over technological ecosystems may become equally important. This is more than technology influencing geopolitics. It is the emergence of technopolitics: the capacity to develop, control and deploy critical technologies becoming an integral component of national power. Also Read: Russia will ‘consider’ Trump’s G20 invitation to Putin; EU vows to keep condemning Moscow The change is also blurring the traditional distinction between states and corporations. A relatively small number of technology companies possess capital, data, computing infrastructure and scientific capabilities on a scale capable of influencing national power. Governments, meanwhile, increasingly regard critical technologies and the companies that develop them as instruments of economic and strategic security. The emerging order could therefore be shaped not only by states, but by states, corporations and the technological ecosystems that connect them. The United States and China are presently the two most consequential centres of this competition. Their rivalry increasingly encompasses artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors, data centres and strategic supply chains, alongside conventional trade and military competition. This does not necessarily mean the emergence of a rigid new Cold War. Economic interdependence remains substantial, and technological boundaries are unlikely to be completely sealed. Nevertheless, a form of technological G2 could emerge: two broad ecosystems centred on the United States and China, with a considerable grey zone between them. Other major powers will have to decide how they respond. Europe, India, Japan, Russia and others may align substantially with one ecosystem, seek to build independent capabilities, or pursue a hybrid approach that allows them to work with both. For India, the question is particularly consequential. India has moved closer to the United States in critical and emerging technologies while simultaneously seeking to strengthen its own technological capabilities. Its scale, scientific base, digital economy and growing technological ambitions give it the possibility of pursuing something more sophisticated than simply choosing between Washington and Beijing. The question for India is whether it can develop sufficient technological depth to become a pole in its own right while participating in both major ecosystems where its interests require it. This is not merely an economic calculation. It is a question of strategic autonomy. The implications extend beyond individual technologies. If technological capabilities become increasingly concentrated in a relatively small number of corporations and their associated states, institutions created after 1945 may increasingly struggle to reflect the actual distribution of power. The United Nations, IMF, World Bank and wider multilateral economic system were designed for a world in which states were overwhelmingly the principal repositories of strategic power. The future may be different. Power may increasingly be distributed between states and technological networks that cross national borders. This raises a difficult question for the international community now meeting in New York: will the existing multilateral order adapt to this new distribution of power, or will a period of great-power bargaining precede the creation of a new system? There is an intriguing historical possibility. The technologies transforming the twenty-first century could take us back towards a political pattern associated with an earlier age: a world in which a relatively small number of powerful actors negotiate directly over the rules of the international system. It would not be a return to the nineteenth century. Technology has changed the nature of power too profoundly for that. But the underlying political pattern could become familiar: great powers, together with their associated economic and technological interests, making arrangements among themselves, sometimes through international institutions and sometimes outside them. In that sense, the future could represent a return to the future. Yet this may be only an interregnum. The post-1945 order itself emerged because the arrangements that preceded it had proved inadequate to the realities of their time. The technological revolution may eventually require a comparable institutional response. Artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, data, digital currencies and other technologies will raise questions that existing institutions were never designed to answer. The challenge is to ensure that technological power does not outrun the institutions needed to govern it. Whether the emerging order becomes more fragmented or eventually produces new forms of multilateralism remains uncertain. What is becoming clearer is that technology is no longer merely an instrument of geopolitical power. It is becoming one of its principal sources. The great strategic question of the coming decades may therefore not simply be who controls territory, resources or military power, but who controls the technologies that increasingly determine how the world itself works.

Technology is increasingly shaping global power, with the US-China rivalry, artificial intelligence, semiconductors and other emerging technologies becoming central to geopolitics and strategic choices.

Back to the future: The rise of technopolitics

The Saudi Civil Defence on Thursday issued an alert for the holy city of Mecca, home to Islam’s holiest site, in warnings that usually indicate a potential threat of missiles. Mecca and several other parts of Saudi Arabia were placed on alert after the kingdom’s National Early Warning Platform sent warning messages about potential danger, the Saudi Civil Defense said.“A warning has been issued by the National Early Warning Platform in Mecca City to alert of a potential danger,” the directorate of Saudi Civil Defense said in a post on X, while issuing instructions for residents.&nbsp;The Civil Defense urged people to remain calm, follow official instructions, and immediately move to the nearest safe place, such as inside a building or an interior room away from windows, and remain there until the danger has passed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">تم إطلاق إنذار من المنصة الوطنية للإنذار المبكر في حالات الطوارئ في مدينة مكة المكرمة للتحذير من خطر، اتبع الآتي: A warning has been issued by the National Early Warning Platform in Mecca City to alert of a potential danger. Please follow the instructions below: <a href="https://t.co/8YtJcQ1zxb">pic.twitter.com/8YtJcQ1zxb</a>&mdash; الدفاع المدني السعودي (@SaudiDCD) <a href="https://x.com/SaudiDCD/status/2103068283767488678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;People were also advised to stay away from open areas, windows, glass, balconies, and rooftops; avoid crowds or dangerous areas; and not leave their homes or buildings until the danger is over.Those already outdoors were instructed to enter the nearest building or take shelter behind a solid barrier. Those driving while receiving the warning were told to pull over to the side of the road, away from bridges and high-rise buildings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-defends-trump-iran-annihilate-threat-pezeshkian-un-1790248735509">Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat</a>&nbsp;The Saudi Civil Defense also advised people not to take photographs or approach dangerous locations.&nbsp;People who notice any danger were asked to contact 911 in Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 998 in other parts of the kingdom. Authorities also urged residents to follow instructions issued through official channels.&nbsp;The alerts were lifted a few minutes later.&nbsp;In recent weeks, alerts have often preceded attacks by Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.&nbsp;This is the second time in less than 10 days that the authorities have issued such a warning for Mecca.&nbsp;Separate warnings were issued for other areas of Saudi Arabia’s western coast, including the Red Sea governorate of Yanbu as well as the Taef, Jeddah and Tabuk regions.&nbsp;Last week, Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of targeting Mecca with a drone that was downed. The group has denied the allegations.&nbsp;The last alert, which came on September 15, was issued after the kingdom’s air defences intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it could enter the prohibited airspace.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-to-reach-indian-ocean-mojtaba-s-adviser-issues-chilling-warning-to-us-1790249334403">Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US</a>&nbsp;A few days later, Houthis targeted the Saudi capital Riyadh for the first time in years, marking a fresh escalation in the conflict.&nbsp;The Iran-backed Houthis and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government have been involved in fresh fighting amid Tehran’s war with the US. The conflict started after the Houthis declared a maritime blockade on the kingdom and targeted its ships in the Red Sea.Earlier this month, the Houthis seized control of strategic coastal areas overlooking the Bab al-Mandab strait, vital for Saudi oil exports, after capturing territory from Saudi-backed government forces.&nbsp;The 2022 Saudi-Houthi truce collapsed in July after the Houthis allowed an Iranian flight to land directly at the Sanaa airport. Saudi-led forces then responded with an airstrike targeting the runway at Sana’a International Airport to prevent or punish the landing.The Houthis then launched retaliatory strikes towards southern Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;<h2>Shot down 6 ballistic missiles fired by Houthis, says Saudi coalition</h2>&nbsp;Later, the Saudi coalition said it had intercepted six ballistic missiles launched by the Houthis.&nbsp;Turki al-Malki, the spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, said its forces destroyed six ballistic missiles launched by Iran-backed Houthis.&nbsp;“Escalation and violations by the terrorist Houthi militia will be dealt with firmly,” al-Malki added.

It was the second time in less than 10 days that such a warning was issued for Mecca. Saudi Arabia’s western coast, including the Red Sea governorate of Yanbu as well as the Taef, Jeddah, and Tabuk, also received similar warnings. 

The Saudi Civil Defence on Thursday issued an alert for the holy city of Mecca, home to Islam’s holiest site, in warnings that usually indicate a potential threat of missiles. Mecca and several other parts of Saudi Arabia were placed on alert after the kingdom’s National Early Warning Platform sent warning messages about potential danger, the Saudi Civil Defense said. “A warning has been issued by the National Early Warning Platform in Mecca City to alert of a potential danger,” the directorate of Saudi Civil Defense said in a post on X, while issuing instructions for residents. The Civil Defense urged people to remain calm, follow official instructions, and immediately move to the nearest safe place, such as inside a building or an interior room away from windows, and remain there until the danger has passed.

It was the second time in less than 10 days that such a warning was issued for Mecca. Saudi Arabia’s western coast, including the Red Sea governorate of Yanbu as well as the Taef, Jeddah, and Tabuk, also received similar warnings.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia issues ‘potential danger’ warning for Mecca, second time in a month

White House on Tuesday said that US President Donald Trump is “courageously” fighting against the Iranian regime, responding to a question about Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who remained unflustered in his United Nations General Assembly speech as Trump said that he could "annihilate" Iran if necessary.&nbsp;“The Iranian regime has murdered thousands of its own people, killed Americans overseas, executed acts of terrorism in the Strait of Hormuz, and launched indiscriminate attacks against its neighbours in the region," said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly. "The President is courageously ensuring that such an evil country never possesses a nuclear weapon, which will make the entire world safer and more stable.”US President Donald Trump at the United Nations General Assembly heavily focused on Iran and aggressively showcased the transactional nature of the America First foreign policy. He said that he was cosidering "annihilate the Islamic Republic" and "drive them into hell with no chance of survival", at the same time he said he was offering Iran economic cooperation and the opportunity to rebuild into a "far greater country" in exchange of dismantling it's nuclear programme, and the opportunity to rebuild into a “far greater country”.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvey-weinstein-sentenced-15-years-miriam-haley-sexual-assault-1790182424219">Harvey Weinstein gets 15-year prison sentence over Miriam Haley assault</a>Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian responded by saying that Iran would not be bullied, while he expressed willingness to dialogue and diplomacy with the US. Iran portrayed itself as a “victim of terrorism”. &nbsp;He said that Iran was defending itself.&nbsp;“Our innocent people have been the targets of cowardly attacks and aggressions imposed upon our country. And we defended ourselves with utmost strength. America and Israel attacked us.” &nbsp;He argued that Israel has nuclear weapons without ever disclosing it to the IAEA, but the IAEA inspectors are in Iran.&nbsp;The oil market spiked once again, with Brent remaining up over 2%, selling at over $105 per barrel before markets opened in the US, as the United Nations summit failed to show any signs of peace. Iran has already warned that any renewed attack will draw retalliation with expanded targeting of energy infrastructure and shipping in the Red Sea and possibly even the Indian Ocean.

The White House defended Trump’s Iran policy after his UN ‘annihilate’ threat as Pezeshkian called for diplomacy and rejected US pressure.

White House on Tuesday said that US President Donald Trump is “courageously” fighting against the Iranian regime, responding to a question about Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who remained unflustered in his United Nations General Assembly speech as Trump said that he could "annihilate" Iran if necessary. “The Iranian regime has murdered thousands of its own people, killed Americans overseas, executed acts of terrorism in the Strait of Hormuz, and launched indiscriminate attacks against its neighbours in the region," said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly. "The President is courageously ensuring that such an evil country never possesses a nuclear weapon, which will make the entire world safer and more stable.” US President Donald Trump at the United Nations General Assembly heavily focused on Iran and aggressively showcased the transactional nature of the America First foreign policy. He said that he was cosidering "annihilate the Islamic Republic" and "drive them into hell with no chance of survival", at the same time he said he was offering Iran economic cooperation and the opportunity to rebuild into a "far greater country" in exchange of dismantling it's nuclear programme, and the opportunity to rebuild into a “far greater country”. Also Read: Harvey Weinstein gets 15-year prison sentence over Miriam Haley assault Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian responded by saying that Iran would not be bullied, while he expressed willingness to dialogue and diplomacy with the US. Iran portrayed itself as a “victim of terrorism”. He said that Iran was defending itself. “Our innocent people have been the targets of cowardly attacks and aggressions imposed upon our country. And we defended ourselves with utmost strength. America and Israel attacked us.” He argued that Israel has nuclear weapons without ever disclosing it to the IAEA, but the IAEA inspectors are in Iran. The oil market spiked once again, with Brent remaining up over 2%, selling at over $105 per barrel before markets opened in the US, as the United Nations summit failed to show any signs of peace. Iran has already warned that any renewed attack will draw retalliation with expanded targeting of energy infrastructure and shipping in the Red Sea and possibly even the Indian Ocean.

The White House defended Trump’s Iran policy after his UN ‘annihilate’ threat as Pezeshkian called for diplomacy and rejected US pressure.

Trump ‘courageously’ fighting Iran, says White House after ‘annihilate’ threat

Amnesty International, the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and 36 other civil society organisations have filed a joint court brief challenging the Trump administration's sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). They say the campaign is harming far more than the officials directly targeted. The groups submitted an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief to the US District Court for the Southern District of New York on September 22. It supports a lawsuit brought by the American Friends Service Committee, the Center for Constitutional Rights, Human Rights Watch and the Open Society Institute. That lawsuit challenges the legality of sanctions imposed under Executive Order 14203, which have targeted ICC prosecutors and judges, a UN human rights expert, and three Palestinian human rights groups.&nbsp;“Behind every civil society organisation being silenced or pushed away from the ICC are victims and survivors waiting for justice. These sanctions are disrupting the networks of people and organisations that stand with victims who bring their stories and evidence before the Court, and spreading fear far beyond those directly targeted,” said Alexis Deswaef, President of FIDH.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-revives-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-as-india-emerges-central-to-west-asia-s-future-1790131037627">Trump revives India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor as India emerges central to West Asia’s future: What is it?</a>&nbsp;Amnesty Secretary General Agnès Callamard said, “As the Trump administration steps up its attacks on the ICC and the civil society organisations essential to its work, it is crucial to demonstrate to the US Federal Court how sanctions are harming global civil society, victims and survivors of crimes under international law, and the very idea of international justice.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The brief first argues that the sanctions are fracturing civil society networks the ICC relies on. Lawyers, victim representatives and survivor-advocates connect victims and witnesses to the Court, document atrocity crimes, support victim participation and reparations, and supply legal and cultural expertise. They also advance domestic investigations and prosecutions, especially where the Court's access is limited.&nbsp;Second, the groups argue that EO 14203 violates freedom of expression and association by threatening severe financial and legal penalties on organisations and individuals.&nbsp;According to the brief, the designated entities have already lost funding, staff, banking access and partnerships. Other organisations have been deterred from engaging with the ICC, and relationships among many groups have suffered. The signatories describe the damage as measurable and irreparable, affecting civil society, the ICC, the administration of international criminal justice and, ultimately, the victims the system exists to serve. The court has yet to rule on the challenge.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-s-special-plane-vs-trump-s-air-force-one-what-s-the-difference-1790232204053">Xi Jinping's 'special plane' vs Trump's Air Force One: What's the difference?</a>&nbsp;The 38 CSOs filing the brief are:<ul><li>Action for the Reform of Justice and Promotion of Human Rights (ARJPDH)</li><li>Amnesty International</li><li>Arab Center for the Independence of the Judiciary and the Legal Profession (ACIJLP)</li><li>Arab Coalition for the International Criminal Court (ACICC)</li><li>Baltasar Garzón International Foundation (FIBGAR)</li><li>Center for Development of International Law (CDIL)</li><li>Center for Justice and Accountability (CJA)</li><li>Centre marocain pour la loi et la paix</li><li>Centro de Investigación y Promoción de los Derechos Humanos (CIPRODEH)</li><li>Chinese Initiative on International Law (CIIL)</li><li>Clinique de droit international pénal et humanitaire, Faculté de droit, Université Laval (CDIPH)</li><li>COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding-Nigeria</li><li>Croatian Helsinki Committee for Human Rights</li><li>Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR)</li><li>European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR)</li><li>Global Justice Center</li><li>Human Rights Now</li><li>HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement</li><li>Indonesian Legal Aid Association for Women (APIK)</li><li>International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH)</li><li>International Network for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCR-Net)</li><li>Just Access</li><li>Kurdish Organizations Network Coalition for the International Criminal Court (KONCICC)</li><li>Lawyers’ Rights Watch Canada</li><li>Libya Crimes Watch (LCW)</li><li>No Peace Without Justice</li><li>The Nuhanovic Foundation</li><li>Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA)</li><li>Platform for Peace and Humanity</li><li>Refugees in Libya</li><li>Rights for Peace</li><li>Robert &amp; Ethel Kennedy Human Rights Center</li><li>StoptheDrugWar.org</li><li>Students for Global Democracy Uganda</li><li>Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM)</li><li>Women’s Initiatives for Gender Justice</li><li>World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT)</li><li>World Without Genocide</li></ul>

Thirty-eight human rights groups have backed a US lawsuit challenging President Trump’s ICC sanctions, warning the restrictions create a chilling effect for victims.

Amnesty International, the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and 36 other civil society organisations have filed a joint court brief challenging the Trump administration's sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). They say the campaign is harming far more than the officials directly targeted. The groups submitted an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief to the US District Court for the Southern District of New York on September 22. It supports a lawsuit brought by the American Friends Service Committee, the Center for Constitutional Rights, Human Rights Watch and the Open Society Institute. That lawsuit challenges the legality of sanctions imposed under Executive Order 14203, which have targeted ICC prosecutors and judges, a UN human rights expert, and three Palestinian human rights groups. “Behind every civil society organisation being silenced or pushed away from the ICC are victims and survivors waiting for justice. These sanctions are disrupting the networks of people and organisations that stand with victims who bring their stories and evidence before the Court, and spreading fear far beyond those directly targeted,” said Alexis Deswaef, President of FIDH. Also read: Trump revives India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor as India emerges central to West Asia’s future: What is it? Amnesty Secretary General Agnès Callamard said, “As the Trump administration steps up its attacks on the ICC and the civil society organisations essential to its work, it is crucial to demonstrate to the US Federal Court how sanctions are harming global civil society, victims and survivors of crimes under international law, and the very idea of international justice.” The brief first argues that the sanctions are fracturing civil society networks the ICC relies on. Lawyers, victim representatives and survivor-advocates connect victims and witnesses to the Court, document atrocity crimes, support victim participation and reparations, and supply legal and cultural expertise. They also advance domestic investigations and prosecutions, especially where the Court's access is limited. Second, the groups argue that EO 14203 violates freedom of expression and association by threatening severe financial and legal penalties on organisations and individuals. According to the brief, the designated entities have already lost funding, staff, banking access and partnerships. Other organisations have been deterred from engaging with the ICC, and relationships among many groups have suffered. The signatories describe the damage as measurable and irreparable, affecting civil society, the ICC, the administration of international criminal justice and, ultimately, the victims the system exists to serve. The court has yet to rule on the challenge. Also read: Xi Jinping's 'special plane' vs Trump's Air Force One: What's the difference? The 38 CSOs filing the brief are: Action for the Reform of Justice and Promotion of Human Rights (ARJPDH) Amnesty International Arab Center for the Independence of the Judiciary and the Legal Profession (ACIJLP) Arab Coalition for the International Criminal Court (ACICC) Baltasar Garzón International Foundation (FIBGAR) Center for Development of International Law (CDIL) Center for Justice and Accountability (CJA) Centre marocain pour la loi et la paix Centro de Investigación y Promoción de los Derechos Humanos (CIPRODEH) Chinese Initiative on International Law (CIIL) Clinique de droit international pénal et humanitaire, Faculté de droit, Université Laval (CDIPH) COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding-Nigeria Croatian Helsinki Committee for Human Rights Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR) European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR) Global Justice Center Human Rights Now HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement Indonesian Legal Aid Association for Women (APIK) International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) International Network for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCR-Net) Just Access Kurdish Organizations Network Coalition for the International Criminal Court (KONCICC) Lawyers’ Rights Watch Canada Libya Crimes Watch (LCW) No Peace Without Justice The Nuhanovic Foundation Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) Platform for Peace and Humanity Refugees in Libya Rights for Peace Robert & Ethel Kennedy Human Rights Center StoptheDrugWar.org Students for Global Democracy Uganda Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM) Women’s Initiatives for Gender Justice World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) World Without Genocide

Thirty-eight human rights groups have backed a US lawsuit challenging President Trump’s ICC sanctions, warning the restrictions create a chilling effect for victims.

38 rights groups challenge Trump's ICC sanctions in US court, warning of chilling effect on victims

Russia said on Thursday (Sept. 24) that it would consider the US government’s invitation for President Vladimir Putin to attend the G20 summit in the United States in December.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has invited Putin to attend the summit of world leaders in Miami. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the invitation earlier this week after meeting his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.&nbsp;Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that no decision had been taken yet on whether Putin would travel to Miami for the summit.&nbsp;“We certainly receive this kind invitation with appreciation. We value this invitation. It will be considered... and a decision will then be made,” Peskov told reporters.<h3>Trump’s Putin invitation comes amid Ukraine war</h3>The invitation comes as the Trump administration has failed to secure a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine despite multiple efforts to end the four-and-a-half-year war between the two countries.&nbsp;Ending the war was also a promise made by Trump during his campaign for the 2024 presidential election.&nbsp;In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. This has put further pressure on oil and gas supplies, which were already strained following Iran’s closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz after US-Israeli attacks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sent-1-300-shipments-to-iran-s-defence-ministry-before-and-during-war-report-1790240379811">China sent 1,300 shipments to Iran’s defence ministry before and during war: Report</a>&nbsp;The rise in energy prices has also added pressure on American consumers ahead of the US midterm polls, which could affect the performance of Trump’s Republican Party.&nbsp;Trump and Putin have spoken by telephone on various occasions. Their last in-person meeting took place in 2025, when Trump welcomed Putin in Alaska for talks on the Ukraine war. However, the talks failed to produce any breakthrough.&nbsp;The G20 summit will take place on December 14 and 15 as the US holds the rotating presidency of the forum, which brings together the world’s major advanced and emerging economies.<h3>EU says Russia has right to attend G20</h3>Meanwhile, the European Union said on Thursday that it would use the December G20 summit in Miami to continue condemning Russia’s war in Ukraine after the United States invited Putin to attend.&nbsp;“Since 2022, the EU has consistently and forcefully used G20 meetings to condemn Russia's full-scale invasion and to call for it to end. What I can say today is that this approach, from the European Union perspective, will continue, irrespective of the participants at any G20 meeting,” EU spokesman Olof Gill said.&nbsp;Gill added that Russia remains a member of the G20 and therefore has “the right to participate in G20 meetings, including at ministerial and leaders level”.

Russia has welcomed Donald Trump’s invitation for Vladimir Putin to attend the December G20 summit in Miami but said no decision has been taken on whether the Russian president will attend.

Russia said on Thursday (Sept. 24) that it would consider the US government’s invitation for President Vladimir Putin to attend the G20 summit in the United States in December. US President Donald Trump has invited Putin to attend the summit of world leaders in Miami. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the invitation earlier this week after meeting his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that no decision had been taken yet on whether Putin would travel to Miami for the summit. “We certainly receive this kind invitation with appreciation. We value this invitation. It will be considered... and a decision will then be made,” Peskov told reporters. Trump’s Putin invitation comes amid Ukraine war The invitation comes as the Trump administration has failed to secure a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine despite multiple efforts to end the four-and-a-half-year war between the two countries. Ending the war was also a promise made by Trump during his campaign for the 2024 presidential election. In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. This has put further pressure on oil and gas supplies, which were already strained following Iran’s closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz after US-Israeli attacks. Also Read: China sent 1,300 shipments to Iran’s defence ministry before and during war: Report The rise in energy prices has also added pressure on American consumers ahead of the US midterm polls, which could affect the performance of Trump’s Republican Party. Trump and Putin have spoken by telephone on various occasions. Their last in-person meeting took place in 2025, when Trump welcomed Putin in Alaska for talks on the Ukraine war. However, the talks failed to produce any breakthrough. The G20 summit will take place on December 14 and 15 as the US holds the rotating presidency of the forum, which brings together the world’s major advanced and emerging economies. EU says Russia has right to attend G20 Meanwhile, the European Union said on Thursday that it would use the December G20 summit in Miami to continue condemning Russia’s war in Ukraine after the United States invited Putin to attend. “Since 2022, the EU has consistently and forcefully used G20 meetings to condemn Russia's full-scale invasion and to call for it to end. What I can say today is that this approach, from the European Union perspective, will continue, irrespective of the participants at any G20 meeting,” EU spokesman Olof Gill said. Gill added that Russia remains a member of the G20 and therefore has “the right to participate in G20 meetings, including at ministerial and leaders level”.

Russia has welcomed Donald Trump’s invitation for Vladimir Putin to attend the December G20 summit in Miami, but said no decision has been taken on whether the Russian president will attend.

Russia will ‘consider’ Trump’s G20 invitation to Putin; EU vows to keep condemning Moscow

Iran has warned that the ongoing Middle East war could spread into the Indian Ocean if the United States launches further attacks, marking the clearest threat yet from Tehran about widening the conflict beyond the region. Yahya Rahim Safavi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, issued the warning on Thursday (Sep 24) in a video released by Iran’s Fars news agency.“Since the conflict has spread from the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in response to more war, the front will expand even further, reaching the Indian Ocean and perhaps beyond,” Safavi said.<h2>Iran points to Red Sea, Hormuz</h2>The warning comes as tensions have already spread across several critical waterways. Yemen’s Houthis have recently taken control of parts of the Red Sea coastline while fighting Saudi-backed government forces, strengthening their position around the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait.Iran has provided military support to the Houthis but denies being directly involved in the Yemen conflict.Tehran has also imposed a lockdown on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies, following US-Israeli strikes that triggered the war at the end of February. Iranian and US forces are now locked in a confrontation over the strategic waterway, through which a major share of the world’s oil and gas previously passed.<h2>Diego Garcia in focus</h2>Thursday’s warning was notable because it directly named the Indian Ocean for the first time in such terms by an adviser to Iran's supreme leader. The region is home to the US-British military base at Diego Garcia, located nearly 4,000 kilometres from Iran.The warning came as Iranian and US officials held talks in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, seeking a possible path towards ending the conflict.Iran has demanded sanctions relief and the unconditional release of frozen Iranian assets as part of its conditions for ending the war.A Revolutionary Guards spokesman also told AFP on Tuesday that ending the war in Yemen was among the issues being discussed.

Iran has warned that the Middle East war could spread to the Indian Ocean if the US attacks again, raising tensions around Hormuz, the Red Sea and the strategic Diego Garcia base.

Iran has warned that the ongoing Middle East war could spread into the Indian Ocean if the United States launches further attacks, marking the clearest threat yet from Tehran about widening the conflict beyond the region. Yahya Rahim Safavi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, issued the warning on Thursday (Sep 24) in a video released by Iran’s Fars news agency. “Since the conflict has spread from the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in response to more war, the front will expand even further, reaching the Indian Ocean and perhaps beyond,” Safavi said. Iran points to Red Sea, Hormuz The warning comes as tensions have already spread across several critical waterways. Yemen’s Houthis have recently taken control of parts of the Red Sea coastline while fighting Saudi-backed government forces, strengthening their position around the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait. Iran has provided military support to the Houthis but denies being directly involved in the Yemen conflict. Tehran has also imposed a lockdown on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies, following US-Israeli strikes that triggered the war at the end of February. Iranian and US forces are now locked in a confrontation over the strategic waterway, through which a major share of the world’s oil and gas previously passed. Diego Garcia in focus Thursday’s warning was notable because it directly named the Indian Ocean for the first time in such terms by an adviser to Iran's supreme leader. The region is home to the US-British military base at Diego Garcia, located nearly 4,000 kilometres from Iran. The warning came as Iranian and US officials held talks in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, seeking a possible path towards ending the conflict. Iran has demanded sanctions relief and the unconditional release of frozen Iranian assets as part of its conditions for ending the war. A Revolutionary Guards spokesman also told AFP on Tuesday that ending the war in Yemen was among the issues being discussed.

Iran has warned that the Middle East war could spread to the Indian Ocean if the US attacks again, raising tensions around Hormuz, the Red Sea and the strategic Diego Garcia base.

Iran war to reach Indian Ocean? Mojtaba’s adviser issues chilling warning to US

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa told the UN General Assembly on Wednesday (Sep 23) that the Golan Heights will remain Syrian despite Israel's claims over the strategically important territory. He demanded that Israeli forces withdraw and warned that attempts to violate Syrian sovereignty would be stopped. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected the remarks, saying the Golan under Israeli sovereignty is an inseparable part of the State of Israel forever.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/al-sharaa-attempt-to-violate-syrian-sovereignty-will-be-opposed-1790228993757/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/al-sharaa-attempt-to-violate-syrian-sovereignty-will-be-opposed-1790228993757/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and annexed it in 1981. Al-Sharaa invoked UN Security Council Resolution 497, which declares Israel's 1981 decision to impose its laws and administration on the territory "null and void". The UN maintains that the plateau is Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Recognition of Israel's claim remains rare. The US was the only country to recognise the annexation until Colombia's new government did so in August. Trump formally recognised Israeli sovereignty in 2019. Al-Sharaa said he told Trump directly that he had no right to do so. He also noted that 123 countries backed a UN General Assembly resolution on the occupied Syrian Golan in December 2025.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-reactor-in-syria-could-have-been-used-for-nuclear-weapons-says-iaea-after-finding-73-tonnes-of-natural-uranium-1788812570475">‘Secret reactor in Syria could have been used for nuclear weapons,’ says IAEA after finding 73 tonnes of natural uranium</a>&nbsp;The plateau is small but strategic. Its elevation gives whoever holds it a commanding view over northern Israel and the road to Damascus, which lies roughly 60 km away. Mount Hermon at its northern edge offers valuable surveillance. The Golan also feeds water sources, including the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee, and it supports agriculture and settlements. Israel says giving it up would leave its north exposed, while Syria sees its return as a matter of sovereignty and national pride.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-great-trump-hails-syria-s-push-for-alternative-to-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-iran-war-1788487903144">'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war</a>&nbsp;Al-Sharaa said Israel has carried out around 500 air strikes, more than 1,200 incursions and 300 detentions in Syria since Bashar al-Assad's fall. He said Syria and Israel had held several rounds of direct talks, some facilitated by the US, and reached "almost 90% of agreements" before Israel pulled back or added new conditions. He said an opportunity for a just peace remains available. With Israel firm on sovereignty and Damascus refusing to concede, the Golan remains a central obstacle to any Syria-Israel settlement.&nbsp;

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa declared at the UN General Assembly that the Golan Heights "will remain Syrian." Here is a breakdown of his claims, the Trump exchange, and why the disputed plateau matters.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa told the UN General Assembly on Wednesday (Sep 23) that the Golan Heights will remain Syrian despite Israel's claims over the strategically important territory. He demanded that Israeli forces withdraw and warned that attempts to violate Syrian sovereignty would be stopped. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected the remarks, saying the Golan under Israeli sovereignty is an inseparable part of the State of Israel forever. https://www.wionews.com/videos/al-sharaa-attempt-to-violate-syrian-sovereignty-will-be-opposed-1790228993757/embed Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and annexed it in 1981. Al-Sharaa invoked UN Security Council Resolution 497, which declares Israel's 1981 decision to impose its laws and administration on the territory "null and void". The UN maintains that the plateau is Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation. Recognition of Israel's claim remains rare. The US was the only country to recognise the annexation until Colombia's new government did so in August. Trump formally recognised Israeli sovereignty in 2019. Al-Sharaa said he told Trump directly that he had no right to do so. He also noted that 123 countries backed a UN General Assembly resolution on the occupied Syrian Golan in December 2025. Also read: ‘Secret reactor in Syria could have been used for nuclear weapons,’ says IAEA after finding 73 tonnes of natural uranium The plateau is small but strategic. Its elevation gives whoever holds it a commanding view over northern Israel and the road to Damascus, which lies roughly 60 km away. Mount Hermon at its northern edge offers valuable surveillance. The Golan also feeds water sources, including the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee, and it supports agriculture and settlements. Israel says giving it up would leave its north exposed, while Syria sees its return as a matter of sovereignty and national pride. Also read: 'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war Al-Sharaa said Israel has carried out around 500 air strikes, more than 1,200 incursions and 300 detentions in Syria since Bashar al-Assad's fall. He said Syria and Israel had held several rounds of direct talks, some facilitated by the US, and reached "almost 90% of agreements" before Israel pulled back or added new conditions. He said an opportunity for a just peace remains available. With Israel firm on sovereignty and Damascus refusing to concede, the Golan remains a central obstacle to any Syria-Israel settlement.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa declared at the UN General Assembly that the Golan Heights "will remain Syrian." Here is a breakdown of his claims, the Trump exchange, and why the disputed plateau matters.

Golan Heights ‘will remain Syrian,’ says al-Sharaa: Why the plateau matters

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued his first statement after landing in United States on Thursday (Sep 24). In a written statement released by state news agency Xinhua, Xi said that China and the United States “should be partners rather than rivals.” Highlighting the people to people ties between the two countries, Xi said that interests are “deeply intertwined.” In a direct message to US President Donald Trump, Xi said that his vision of ‘Make America Great Again’ can be aligned with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and in turn benefit the world. Stating that the differences between both sides are “manageable,” the Chinese premier also added that he is hoping for a stable relationship with the US and a path where two major powers can co-exist.In other news, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in India on 19 October, his second trip to the country this year, as Washington and New Delhi work to manage both deepening strategic ties and fresh points of friction. During this visit, he will be travelling to India's financial capital, Mumbai.Following up, CCTV footage from IIT Bombay has emerged showing BTech student Sahil Wakode in the examination hall before he was found dead on the institute campus. Stay with us for the latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Pakistan carried out air and drone strikes on 10 locations in Afghanistan on Thursday, including an attack reported in Kandahar, the hometown of Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, as tensions between the two neighbours escalated further. A resident of Kandahar told AFP that they heard a jet followed by a large explosion and later saw a fire in the centre of the city. Pakistan did not specify the locations of the targets in its initial statement.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2nd-pakistan-attack-on-afghanistan-this-week-kandahar-hit-as-tensions-with-taliban-soar-1790243920315">Read Here.&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;

2nd Pakistan attack on Afghanistan this week: Kandahar hit as tensions with Taliban soar

INS Trishul arrived at Toulon, France, on 22 Sep 2026 to participate in the 24th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise ‘VARUNA’ between the Indian Navy and the French Navy.Exercise VARUNA will witness professional engagements in harbour and at sea, including cross-deck visits, operational interactions and sporting engagements. These engagements will provide opportunities for both Navies to share experiences and best practices, enhance interoperability and foster greater mutual understanding.The visit underscores the strong and enduring maritime partnership between India and France and reflects the expanding scope of maritime cooperation and strengthening ties between the two nations.

INS Trishul arrives at Toulon, France for the 24th edition of bilateral maritime exercise Varuna

Oil prices jumped in Asia's afternoon trade, with the international benchmark, Brent crude, surging three percent to $106.24 per barrel, as uncertainty swirled around the seven-month conflict.Hopes for a deal to get Gulf oil and gas flowing freely through the Strait of Hormuz as global leaders gathered in New York had sent oil prices down in recent sessions.Hong Kong closed 0.3 percent down, with Sydney, Taipei, Jakarta, Bangkok, Manila and Singapore also in the red. South Korea's Kospi was closed for a holiday.Japan's Nikkei closed 0.8 percent up on its first day back from a three-day break.- Key figures at around 0815 GMT -West Texas Intermediate:&nbsp;UP 1.4 percent at $93.41 per barrelBrent North Sea Crude:&nbsp;UP 3 percent at $106.24 per barrelHong Kong - Hang Seng Index:&nbsp;DOWN 0.3 percent at 24,761.13 (close)Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 1.2 percent at 3,888.37&nbsp;(close)Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.8 percent at 65,513.99 (close)London - FTSE 100:&nbsp;FLAT at 10,710.78Dollar/yen: UP at 158.34 from 158.29 on WednesdayEuro/dollar: UP at $1.1389 from $1.1385Pound/dollar: UP at $1.3244 from $1.3242Euro/pound: FLAT at 85.97 pence

Oil prices jump by 3% to $106.24 per barrel

Asian markets fell on Thursday as jitters around a high-stakes summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping hit equities.Shanghai closed 1.2 percent down, shrugging off US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's announcement that the superpowers had agreed to extend a trade truce by two months.The simmering trade war between the world's top two economies is a key concern. Both sides have maintained a tariff truce for nearly a year, but they have yet to secure a lasting agreement.The "economic detente" will now extend beyond its November 10 deadline to January 10, Bessent said.&nbsp;

Asian markets fall on US-China jitters as leaders meet

Berlin on Thursday confirmed its withdrawal from the race to be part of Germany's bid to host the Summer Olympics and Paralympics, leaving only Munich and the western Rhine/Ruhr region as potential hosts.The Berlin Senate confirmed the withdrawal at a press conference in the German capital on Thursday, a day after reports emerged that the city would no longer take part."Today is a sad day for Berlin, because the Olympic and Paralympic Games would have been a tremendous opportunity -- for Berlin, for East Germany, and for future generations," Berlin mayor Kai Wegner told reporters.On Saturday, the German Olympic Committee (DOSB) will make a call on a preferred region as part of a bid to the International Olympic Committee to host one of the 2036, 2040 and 2044 Summer Games.Berlin was one of the three remaining regions in the race after Hamburg's withdrawal, however, support to host the games in the German capital flatlined after elections last Sunday.

Berlin confirms withdrawal from race to host summer Olympics

"Since the conflict has spread from the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in response to more war, the front will expand even further, reaching the Indian Ocean and perhaps beyond," said Yahya Rahim Safavi in a video released by Iran's Fars news agency.

Iran may expand war to Indian Ocean if US attacks again: supreme leader's adviser 

The meeting between Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Abbas Araghchi came amid efforts by mediators, including Pakistan, to end hostilities between Tehran and Washington. Both Iran and the U.S. have confirmed holding talks in New York. Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement the two countries had discussed regional and international developments, without elaborating.

Iranian and Pakistani foreign ministers meet on UNGA sidelines amid ongoing war mediation efforts

Afghanistan's Taliban government said on Thursday that Pakistani airstrikes killed four civilians, vowing to deliver an "appropriate response" to the raids.

Taliban govt says Pakistan airstrikes kill 4 civilians in Afghanistan 

South Sudan President Salva Kiir has officially dissolved the country's transitional government, paving the way for the nation’s first-ever national elections scheduled for December 22, 2026

South Sudan's president dissolves government ahead of country's first elections

Morocco's centre-right Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), part of the kingdom's ruling coalition, celebrates its victory after it came out ahead in parliamentary election, winning 97 out of 395 seats, according to provisional results. The election drew a turnout of 38 percent, marking the lowest level in almost two decades as the kingdom struggled with voter apathy amid social crises

Morocco's centre-right PAM secures most seats in election: provisional results 

Seven people were killed in a Russian strike on a farm in the Kharkiv region of eastern Ukraine on Thursday, Prime Minister Sergiy Koretsky said, after a wave of attacks across the country."In the morning, a drone struck an agricultural enterprise, killing seven people and injuring 10," he wrote on Telegram.

Seven killed in Russian strike on Ukraine farm near Kharkiv: PM

Bengaluru-based entrepreneur Karthik SG, founder of A1 Sports World, has triggered a heated online debate after announcing that his company will no longer recruit male candidates from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh or Bihar.

Won’t hire men from UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, MP: Bengaluru entrepreneur faces backlash

The BJP spent Rs 529.38 crore on contesting the last round of Assembly elections held across Assam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal, with more than half of the expenditure incurred in West Bengal, according to the party’s election expenditure reports submitted to the Election Commission.

BJP Spent Rs 529 Crore On 5 State Polls, Over Half In Bengal, EC Expenditure Report Shows

Amid the ongoing row over alleged differences within the Election Commission of India, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke took a swipe at Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Thursday, asking on social media, “What if all Gyanesh haters unite?”

'What if...': CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke's new post amid ECI-Gyanesh Kumar row

Days after a 17-year-old girl was gang-raped at Astha Kunj near Kalkaji Mandir, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has ordered tighter security at its parks across the city, including restricting entry through select gates after sunset, installing more CCTV cameras and lights, and increasing night patrolling. The directions have been issued by the DDA Vice Chairman and are to be implemented immediately, even as a wider safety audit of parks gets underway.&nbsp;

Days After Rape Of 17-Year-Old, Delhi Restricts Entry To Parks After Sunset

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it "would be great" if a functional international system existed to address potential conflicts around the world, including those between India and Pakistan. "We see the utility in the international system. We're here...I think the President has said that the United Nations, for example, has tremendous potential, but it's not living up to it...," Rubio told reporters. The top US diplomat said there's "unanimity and consensus" at the high-level UNGA week that the international system is broken.&nbsp;"But it's broken because it broke itself. It needs to be brought back to its proper focus and its proper role. It would be great if we had a functional international system, for example, that could deal with a war between Thailand and Cambodia that occurred, or a potential conflict between India and Pakistan...Right now, we don't seem to have a functional international system that can address it," he said.

International System Broken, Can't Address Conflicts Like India-Pakistan: US

Pakistan has appointed retired Lt-Gen Nauman Mahmood as the first Secretary-General of the Secretariat that will oversee implementation of the Mecca pact—the trilateral defence agreement between Saudi, Turkey and Pakistan.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/who-is-lt-gen-nauman-mahmood-pakistan-s-first-secretary-general-of-makkah-defence-alliance-1790229710965"> READ MORE ABOUT HIM HERE&nbsp;</a>

Who is Lt-Gen Nauman Mahmood, Pakistan's first secretary general of Makkah Defence Alliance?

Another case of molestation has surfaced from Bihar's Samastipur district, days after Jamui incident prompted Bihar Police to take action. Similar to the Jamui incident, this has also been captured on CCTV. In a 56-second video that has now gone viral, four men were seen harassing and molesting a girl. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-teen-harassed-molested-in-bihar-s-samastipur-accused-arrested-1790228525065">READ MORE</a>

Another teen molested on road by group of men in Bihar's Samastipur, accused arrested

A new CNN/SSRS poll finds just 26% of Americans approve of Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict, down from 33% in March. Even among Republicans, approval has fallen as more Americans question the war’s direction and costs. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-1-in-4-americans-approve-of-trump-s-iran-war-handling-new-poll-finds-november-midterms-1790221557266">READ MORE</a>

Just 1 in 4 Americans approve of Trump’s Iran war handling, new poll finds

An overnight airstrike hit the southern Afghan city of Kandahar, home to the Taliban government's supreme leader. The latest strikes come days after a deadly bombardment by Islamabad forces in eastern Afghanistan and nearly a week after a militant attack on a police headquarters in northern Pakistan that killed at least 31 people

Pakistan confirms Afghan strikes after resident says Kandahar hit 

A man in California accidentally backed up his Tesla Cybertruck over his six-year-old son, who died at the hospital. Terrick El Guindy is a Mr Olympia judge who remembered his son in an Instagram Story. “We are one. We will always be one. We will be together forever. Preston and Terrick," he wrote. The 48-year-old struck his son outside their home on Saturday around 9 pm. The California Highway Patrol questioned Terrick, but he wasn't arrested. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mr-olympia-judge-accidentally-backs-his-tesla-cybertruck-over-his-6-year-old-son-1790232870320">READ MORE</a>

Mr Olympia judge accidentally backs his Tesla Cybertruck over his 6-year-old son

https://www.wionews.com/videos/iit-bombay-student-suicide-case-cctv-from-the-exam-hall-hours-before-suicide-1790234425635

IIT Bombay student suicide case: CCTV from the exam hall hours before suicide

What if your next romantic date was with an AI partner instead of a real person? South Korea’s reality show My AI Partner: Strange Love explores how human beings can become attached to digital companions. The new series has ignited conversations about intimacy, relationships and the future of human connection. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/would-you-date-an-ai-south-korea-s-my-ai-partner-strange-love-sparks-buzz-on-relationship-and-intimacy-1790225670726">READ MORE</a>

Would you date an AI? South Korea’s My AI Partner: Strange Love sparks buzz on relationship and intimacy

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the US has reportedly warned European governments of Spain, France and Italy of a possible drone attack by Russia. As per the assessment, Moscow could potentially use drones launched from commercial vessels in the Mediterranean to launch the attacks.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-likely-to-target-spain-france-and-italy-in-drone-attacks-warns-cia-report-1790229075278">Read more</a>

Russia likely to target Spain, France and Italy in drone attacks, warns CIA: Report

A 70,000-page charge sheet filed in Ram Mandir donation theft case. Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao made prosecution witnesses. Charge sheet filed against eight arrested accused.The charge sheet did not name office-bearers of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust as accused. Charge sheet filed before the expiry of the 90-day deadline. Trust office-bearers and the bank were given a clean chit due to a lack of sufficient evidence.The eight accused named in the police charge sheet are: Anukalp Mishra — Identified as the mastermind behind the donation theft; recovery of ₹16.82 lakh from his home noted.

Trust gives clean chit in the Ram Mandir donation theft case

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the road accident in Greater Noida and expressed condolences to the bereaved families. He directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured, provide all possible assistance to the victims’ families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.&nbsp;The CM announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 each for the injuredPolice and rescue teams safely rescued 30 people from the bus accident

CM Yogi Adityanath announces compensation for Greater Noida bus accident

US shares fell and benchmark 10-year Treasury yields climbed to their highest level since 2007 on Wednesday, after data showed US business activity racing to a more-than-five-year high in September, fueled by a surge in new orders.

US stocks fall as 10-year treasury yield hits highest since 2007

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the US has reportedly warned European governments of Spain, France and Italy of a possible drone attack by Russia. As per the assessment, Moscow could potentially use drones launched from commercial vessels in the Mediterranean to launch the attacks.According to El Mundo, second-largest printed daily newspaper in Spain, Russians plan to use commercial vehicles in international waters, turning civilian ships into mobile launch platforms for the attack to maintain plausible deniability.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-likely-to-target-spain-france-and-italy-in-drone-attacks-warns-cia-report-1790229075278">Read more</a>

A federal judge in the United States has reinstated CNN, MS NOW and Politico’s access to the White House, days after US President Donald Trump banned them from the premises. Federal Judge Timothy Kelly has ordered the Trump administration to restore the media publications' access.Just days earlier, on Friday (Sep 18), Trump barred them from the presidential mansion as punishment for distributing what he calls "fake news." The POTUS had said on social media that the three outlets “shouldn’t be ⁠able to constantly write or ​report ​FICTION and LIES,” ​and Justice Department lawyers ​had ‌sought to ​justify ​the ban on national security grounds. The DoJ, in a justification for the ban, said that "Access to the White House is a privilege -- not a right".<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-orders-trump-to-restore-white-house-access-to-cnn-ms-now-politico-breaking-1790227149764">Read more</a>

Trump’s CNN, MS NOW, Politico White House ban hit by court order: Access must be restored

CCTV footage from IIT Bombay has emerged showing BTech student Sahil Wakode in the examination hall before he was found dead on the institute campus. The footage shows Wakode seated on the first bench of the examination hall, with other students seated behind him.At one point, Wakode looks down towards his lap, where he appears to be checking something on his phone while the examination is underway.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-bombay-cctv-footage-emerges-sahil-wakode-seen-looking-at-phone-in-examination-hall-1790187682647">Read more</a>

IIT Bombay CCTV footage emerges: Sahil Wakode seen looking at phone in examination hall

China has been vastly expanding its nuclear arsenal, adding at least seven nuclear test and construction facilities in recent months. A report by the Daily Telegraph, based on an analysis of satellite imagery, shows that the Chinese countryside has been filled with huge networks of infrastructure and testing sites. President Xi Jinping has often claimed that he is in favour of scaling back on the nukes, but the latest report presents a different picture.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-000-foot-tube-laser-tests-and-more-china-builds-towns-to-expand-nuclear-weapons-1790220654775">Read more</a>

2,000-foot tube, laser tests and more: China builds towns to expand nuclear arsenal, satellite images show

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued his first statement after landing in United States on Thursday (Sep 24). In a written statement released by state news agency Xinhua, Xi said that China and the United States “should be partners rather than rivals.” Highlighting the people to people ties between the two countries, Xi said that interests are “deeply intertwined.” In a direct message to US President Donald Trump, Xi said that his vision of ‘Make America Great Again’ can be aligned with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and in turn benefit the world. Stating that the differences between both sides are “manageable,” the Chinese premier also added that he is hoping for a stable relationship with the US and a path where two major powers can co-exist.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">Read more</a>

'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US for Trump summit

Get the latest updates: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit India on Oct 19, Donald Trump’s approval on Iran drops below 30%, and CCTV footage emerges in IIT Bombay student death probe.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued his first statement after landing in United States on Thursday (Sep 24). In a written statement released by state news agency Xinhua, Xi said that China and the United States “should be partners rather than rivals.” Highlighting the people to people ties between the two countries, Xi said that interests are “deeply intertwined.” In a direct message to US President Donald Trump, Xi said that his vision of ‘Make America Great Again’ can be aligned with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and in turn benefit the world. Stating that the differences between both sides are “manageable,” the Chinese premier also added that he is hoping for a stable relationship with the US and a path where two major powers can co-exist. In other news, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in India on 19 October, his second trip to the country this year, as Washington and New Delhi work to manage both deepening strategic ties and fresh points of friction. During this visit, he will be travelling to India's financial capital, Mumbai. Following up, CCTV footage from IIT Bombay has emerged showing BTech student Sahil Wakode in the examination hall before he was found dead on the institute campus. Stay with us for the latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Get the latest updates: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit India on Oct 19, Donald Trump’s approval on Iran drops below 30%, and CCTV footage emerges in IIT Bombay student death probe.

Latest News India and World LIVE Updates: Trump-Xi summit, ECI controversy and more

Pakistan carried out air and drone strikes on 10 locations in Afghanistan on Thursday, including an attack reported in Kandahar, the hometown of Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, as tensions between the two neighbours escalated further. A resident of Kandahar told AFP that they heard a jet followed by a large explosion and later saw a fire in the centre of the city. Pakistan did not specify the locations of the targets in its initial statement.The strikes came just days after Pakistan carried out airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan, in what marked the second such attack this week.<h2>Why did Pakistan strike Afghanistan?</h2>Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the latest strikes were carried out in response to what Islamabad described as attacks launched from Afghan territory. Tarar said on X that the Afghan Taliban had fired eight drones into Pakistan and shelled border areas on Wednesday. He said Pakistani forces then conducted "precision aerial and drone strikes" against 10 locations allegedly used to launch and store drones.&nbsp;"The strikes were deliberate, precise, calibrated and proportionate and strictly limited to identified military objectives directly linked to the attempted attacks against Pakistan," Tarar said. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban government of allowing militant groups, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to operate from Afghan territory. Kabul has denied the allegations.Tarar said Pakistan would not accept attacks launched from Afghanistan, whether by militant groups or by the Taliban government itself.<h2>Kandahar among areas hit</h2>While Pakistan did not name the locations targeted, Afghan officials and local sources reported strikes in several areas. AFP reported that Pakistani jets struck the 203rd Mansouri Corps in Afghanistan's Paktia province, according to provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Rasool Ahmadi.Airstrikes also targeted Khost province, although the governor's spokesman Mustaghfa Gurbaz said there were no casualties there. The reported strike on Kandahar is significant because the city is home to the Taliban leadership and is the hometown of Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.<h2>Afghanistan responds</h2>The Taliban government has condemned Pakistan's military action and accused Islamabad of violating Afghan sovereignty. Afghan officials have previously vowed to respond to Pakistani strikes. After Pakistan's airstrikes earlier this week, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said Afghanistan would respond to what he called the aggression.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan launched its second wave of precision air and drone strikes across 10 Afghan locations, including Kandahar, retaliating against cross-border drone and shelling attacks amid escalating border tensions.

Pakistan carried out air and drone strikes on 10 locations in Afghanistan on Thursday, including an attack reported in Kandahar, the hometown of Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, as tensions between the two neighbours escalated further. A resident of Kandahar told AFP that they heard a jet followed by a large explosion and later saw a fire in the centre of the city. Pakistan did not specify the locations of the targets in its initial statement. The strikes came just days after Pakistan carried out airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan, in what marked the second such attack this week. Why did Pakistan strike Afghanistan? Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the latest strikes were carried out in response to what Islamabad described as attacks launched from Afghan territory. Tarar said on X that the Afghan Taliban had fired eight drones into Pakistan and shelled border areas on Wednesday. He said Pakistani forces then conducted "precision aerial and drone strikes" against 10 locations allegedly used to launch and store drones. "The strikes were deliberate, precise, calibrated and proportionate and strictly limited to identified military objectives directly linked to the attempted attacks against Pakistan," Tarar said. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban government of allowing militant groups, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to operate from Afghan territory. Kabul has denied the allegations. Tarar said Pakistan would not accept attacks launched from Afghanistan, whether by militant groups or by the Taliban government itself. Kandahar among areas hit While Pakistan did not name the locations targeted, Afghan officials and local sources reported strikes in several areas. AFP reported that Pakistani jets struck the 203rd Mansouri Corps in Afghanistan's Paktia province, according to provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Rasool Ahmadi. Airstrikes also targeted Khost province, although the governor's spokesman Mustaghfa Gurbaz said there were no casualties there. The reported strike on Kandahar is significant because the city is home to the Taliban leadership and is the hometown of Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. Afghanistan responds The Taliban government has condemned Pakistan's military action and accused Islamabad of violating Afghan sovereignty. Afghan officials have previously vowed to respond to Pakistani strikes. After Pakistan's airstrikes earlier this week, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said Afghanistan would respond to what he called the aggression.

Pakistan launched its second wave of precision air and drone strikes across 10 Afghan locations, including Kandahar, retaliating against cross-border drone and shelling attacks amid escalating border tensions.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) data on its employees and job applicants has been compromised. A high-profile hacking group, ShinyHunters, claims to have breached multiple FBI-related services and stolen data "on all FBI employees and applicants". The group told 404 Media that the data includes FBI agents' names, home addresses, phone numbers, and information on their spouses.The group claims it accessed between 2 and 3 terabytes of data tied to the FBI and the US Justice Department. In posts on the dark web and messages shared with several media outlets, the hackers said the stolen information included records concerning FBI agents as well as people who had applied for jobs with the bureau. In one post addressed to FBI director Kash Patel and FBI Cyber Division Assistant Director Brett Leatherman, the hacking group ShinyHunters in a post said: "We have compromised the FBI," reports CBS.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-ai-super-intelligence-at-un-as-world-leaders-clash-over-how-to-regulate-it-1790129701998">Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it</a><h2>Why it matters</h2>The hack can have massive national security and counterintelligence ramifications.On Tuesday, the FBI said it was aware of claims involving unauthorised activity affecting its recruitment website, FBIjobs.gov, and had launched an investigation.Shortly after on Tuesday, the home page for FBI careers had a "System Unavailable" message on the top of the page. The message further read that the job application and special agent applicant portal were unavailable.A day later, the bureau issued a more detailed statement, saying it was looking into allegations that personally identifiable information belonging to FBI employees may have been affected.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-orders-trump-to-restore-white-house-access-to-cnn-ms-now-politico-breaking-1790227149764">Trump’s CNN, MS NOW, Politico White House ban hit by court order: Access must be restored</a>“The FBI is aware of a cyber-criminal enterprise group claiming a compromise of the FBIJobs.gov portal and alleged impact to FBI employee personally identifiable information (PII),” the agency said.“While the point of breach is still undetermined, whether a third party or the FBI's enterprise, we are actively and aggressively investigating this matter and working closely with those third-party providers that support FBIJobs.gov to mitigate any and all risk.”&nbsp;

ShinyHunters, a cybercriminal group, is claiming it breached FBI-related systems and stole a huge volume of data on bureau employees and job applicants. The FBI has confirmed an investigation into alleged unauthorised activity, but has not yet verified the hackers’ broader claims.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) data on its employees and job applicants has been compromised. A high-profile hacking group, ShinyHunters, claims to have breached multiple FBI-related services and stolen data "on all FBI employees and applicants". The group told 404 Media that the data includes FBI agents' names, home addresses, phone numbers, and information on their spouses. The group claims it accessed between 2 and 3 terabytes of data tied to the FBI and the US Justice Department. In posts on the dark web and messages shared with several media outlets, the hackers said the stolen information included records concerning FBI agents as well as people who had applied for jobs with the bureau. In one post addressed to FBI director Kash Patel and FBI Cyber Division Assistant Director Brett Leatherman, the hacking group ShinyHunters in a post said: "We have compromised the FBI," reports CBS. Also read | Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it Why it matters The hack can have massive national security and counterintelligence ramifications. On Tuesday, the FBI said it was aware of claims involving unauthorised activity affecting its recruitment website, FBIjobs.gov, and had launched an investigation. Shortly after on Tuesday, the home page for FBI careers had a "System Unavailable" message on the top of the page. The message further read that the job application and special agent applicant portal were unavailable. A day later, the bureau issued a more detailed statement, saying it was looking into allegations that personally identifiable information belonging to FBI employees may have been affected. Also read | Trump’s CNN, MS NOW, Politico White House ban hit by court order: Access must be restored “The FBI is aware of a cyber-criminal enterprise group claiming a compromise of the FBIJobs.gov portal and alleged impact to FBI employee personally identifiable information (PII),” the agency said. “While the point of breach is still undetermined, whether a third party or the FBI's enterprise, we are actively and aggressively investigating this matter and working closely with those third-party providers that support FBIJobs.gov to mitigate any and all risk.”

ShinyHunters, a cybercriminal group, is claiming it breached FBI-related systems and stole a huge volume of data on bureau employees and job applicants. The FBI has confirmed an investigation into alleged unauthorised activity, but has not yet verified the hackers’ broader claims.

FBI hacked? Hacking group ShinyHunters claims to 'have compromised the FBI,' stolen 2–3TB data

Chinese suppliers sent around 1,300 shipments of dual-use components to Iran’s defence ministry during the first half of 2026, helping sustain the country’s weapons programmes, The Wall Street Journal reported. The shipments included parts that can be used for drones and other military systems, according to Iranian customs records the Journal reviewed.<h2>More than $6 million in drone parts</h2>One shipment arrived in Iran on June 17, the same day Washington and Tehran agreed to a 60-day truce, the report said. More than a dozen shipments followed two days later, carrying over $6 million worth of parts that could be used in drones.&nbsp;The findings come as Chinese President Xi Jinping is in Washington for talks with US President Donald Trump. Chinese support for Iran is expected to be among the issues surrounding the talks, alongside trade, artificial intelligence safety and Taiwan.&nbsp;The Journal reported that Trump had told aides that maintaining relations with Xi was a priority.&nbsp;Records provided by ImportGenius, covering January 2025 to June 2026, listed thousands of shipments to Iranian companies and the defence ministry. They included GPS devices, motors and aircraft engine parts.&nbsp;Several shipments cited Article 119, which exempts defence imports from tariffs.<h2>Iran expanded air links with China</h2>China also delivered around 300 tonnes of chemical compounds to Iran’s defence ministry days before the war began on February 28, the report said. Trade between the two countries initially fell sharply after the conflict began. But Iran later expanded air links with China as an April US naval blockade further restricted supplies.&nbsp;US-sanctioned Mahan Air increased flights from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou to Tehran from four per week in early March to around 27 per week by late April, according to FlightRadar24 data cited by the Journal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese suppliers sent around 1,300 dual-use component shipments to Iran during early 2026, boosting its weapons programs via expanded air routes despite US sanctions, according to Iranian customs records.

Chinese suppliers sent around 1,300 shipments of dual-use components to Iran’s defence ministry during the first half of 2026, helping sustain the country’s weapons programmes, The Wall Street Journal reported. The shipments included parts that can be used for drones and other military systems, according to Iranian customs records the Journal reviewed. More than $6 million in drone parts One shipment arrived in Iran on June 17, the same day Washington and Tehran agreed to a 60-day truce, the report said. More than a dozen shipments followed two days later, carrying over $6 million worth of parts that could be used in drones. The findings come as Chinese President Xi Jinping is in Washington for talks with US President Donald Trump. Chinese support for Iran is expected to be among the issues surrounding the talks, alongside trade, artificial intelligence safety and Taiwan. The Journal reported that Trump had told aides that maintaining relations with Xi was a priority. Records provided by ImportGenius, covering January 2025 to June 2026, listed thousands of shipments to Iranian companies and the defence ministry. They included GPS devices, motors and aircraft engine parts. Several shipments cited Article 119, which exempts defence imports from tariffs. Iran expanded air links with China China also delivered around 300 tonnes of chemical compounds to Iran’s defence ministry days before the war began on February 28, the report said. Trade between the two countries initially fell sharply after the conflict began. But Iran later expanded air links with China as an April US naval blockade further restricted supplies. US-sanctioned Mahan Air increased flights from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou to Tehran from four per week in early March to around 27 per week by late April, according to FlightRadar24 data cited by the Journal.

Chinese suppliers sent around 1,300 dual-use component shipments to Iran during early 2026, boosting its weapons programs via expanded air routes despite US sanctions, according to Iranian customs records.

China sent 1,300 shipments to Iran’s defence ministry before and during war: Report

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Washington for his first state visit in 11 years and he is being companied by his wife – Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan. While the focus remains on his meeting with US President Donald Trump, the Chinese First Lady also has a busy schedule during these three-day visit to the US. Peng is scheduled to join US First Lady Melania Trump for a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art and will attend the White House state dinner with Xi on September 24. The two first ladies are also expected to have separate engagements during the summit. As the Chinese President and First Lady landed in Maryland this morning, Peng greeted and met Trump and Melania. She wore a dove grey (or pale grey-blue) dress paired with a pale, light-colored scarf wrapped around her neck when she landed at Joint Base Andrews.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US</a><h2>Peng Liyuan’s life&nbsp;</h2>Peng was born in 1962 in Shandong province. Her mother was a Chinese opera performer and she learnt folk and soprano at home. At the age of 14, she gained admission to the Shandong University of Arts as a vocational training student specialising in Chinese folk songs. In 1980, Peng joined the People’s Liberation Army to work as a “arts and cultural warrior.” She became a part of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Music Band. It was there that she became a national star with her soaring, glass-breaking voice and patriotic folk songs. Interestingly, In an interview with Chinese television in 2004, Peng said her father was categorised as a “counter-revolutionary” because some of their relatives served in the Taiwanese army. In 1986, Peng met 33-year-old Xi Jinping, who was then a divorced deputy mayor of Xiamen city in Fujian Province. The couple married a year later in 1987 and welcomed their daughter, Xi Mingze, in 1992. According to reports, she was more famous than her husband till 2012. In 2012, Xi became general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and in 2013 the president of China.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture</a>&nbsp;However, unlike other spouses of Chinese prime ministers, Peng has remained in spotlight. Peng is often referred to as “Mama Peng”, while Xi is called “Xi Dada”, which could mean either Papa Xi or Uncle Xi as she wields significant unofficial power in China's administrative and military affairs. As first lady, Peng took on several diplomatic roles. In 2011, she was made a World Health Organisation goodwill ambassador for tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. In 2014, UNESCO appointed her a Special Envoy for the Advancement of Girls’ and Women’s Education, citing her advocacy for education and women’s empowerment.&nbsp;She has also held senior positions within the PLA’s cultural institutions and has been associated with the People’s Liberation Army Art Academy.Peng has also accompanied Xi on many foreign visits, from Russia to the US and more. Her sartorial choices has always made headlines. During her first overseas visit as first lady to Russia in 2013, she whipped up a fervour for her outfits. Her name became one of the most commonly searched terms on Weibo, China’s version of Twitter. Reports said copies of her winter coat and blue scarf flew off the cyber-shelves of Taobao, an Amazon-like Chinese company.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Peng Liyuan, China's First Lady and wife of Xi Jinping, was a celebrated folk singer before taking on a prominent diplomatic role. Known for her fashion and cultural diplomacy, she is joining Xi on his US visit and is scheduled to meet Melania Trump during the state visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Washington for his first state visit in 11 years and he is being companied by his wife – Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan. While the focus remains on his meeting with US President Donald Trump, the Chinese First Lady also has a busy schedule during these three-day visit to the US. Peng is scheduled to join US First Lady Melania Trump for a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art and will attend the White House state dinner with Xi on September 24. The two first ladies are also expected to have separate engagements during the summit. As the Chinese President and First Lady landed in Maryland this morning, Peng greeted and met Trump and Melania. She wore a dove grey (or pale grey-blue) dress paired with a pale, light-colored scarf wrapped around her neck when she landed at Joint Base Andrews. Also Read: 'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US Peng Liyuan’s life Peng was born in 1962 in Shandong province. Her mother was a Chinese opera performer and she learnt folk and soprano at home. At the age of 14, she gained admission to the Shandong University of Arts as a vocational training student specialising in Chinese folk songs. In 1980, Peng joined the People’s Liberation Army to work as a “arts and cultural warrior.” She became a part of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Music Band. It was there that she became a national star with her soaring, glass-breaking voice and patriotic folk songs. Interestingly, In an interview with Chinese television in 2004, Peng said her father was categorised as a “counter-revolutionary” because some of their relatives served in the Taiwanese army. In 1986, Peng met 33-year-old Xi Jinping, who was then a divorced deputy mayor of Xiamen city in Fujian Province. The couple married a year later in 1987 and welcomed their daughter, Xi Mingze, in 1992. According to reports, she was more famous than her husband till 2012. In 2012, Xi became general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and in 2013 the president of China. Also Read: Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture However, unlike other spouses of Chinese prime ministers, Peng has remained in spotlight. Peng is often referred to as “Mama Peng”, while Xi is called “Xi Dada”, which could mean either Papa Xi or Uncle Xi as she wields significant unofficial power in China's administrative and military affairs. As first lady, Peng took on several diplomatic roles. In 2011, she was made a World Health Organisation goodwill ambassador for tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. In 2014, UNESCO appointed her a Special Envoy for the Advancement of Girls’ and Women’s Education, citing her advocacy for education and women’s empowerment. She has also held senior positions within the PLA’s cultural institutions and has been associated with the People’s Liberation Army Art Academy. Peng has also accompanied Xi on many foreign visits, from Russia to the US and more. Her sartorial choices has always made headlines. During her first overseas visit as first lady to Russia in 2013, she whipped up a fervour for her outfits. Her name became one of the most commonly searched terms on Weibo, China’s version of Twitter. Reports said copies of her winter coat and blue scarf flew off the cyber-shelves of Taobao, an Amazon-like Chinese company.

Peng Liyuan, China's First Lady and wife of Xi Jinping, was a celebrated folk singer before taking on a prominent diplomatic role. Known for her fashion and cultural diplomacy, she is joining Xi on his US visit and is scheduled to meet Melania Trump during the state visit.

Who is Peng Liyuan? Xi Jinping's singer wife and China's most visible First Lady

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in Washington but here we focus on the aircraft that carried him and how it stacks up against America’s presidential plane. The aircraft carrying China’s leader is referred to in state media and official statements as a zhuan ji, or special plane. Like Air Force One, this is also Boeing 747 but is lesser known. He landed at Joint Base Andrews on a heavily modified Air China Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US</a>&nbsp;However, across the Pacific Ocean, China does not operate a dedicated presidential aircraft. Aircraft used for Xi’s overseas trips have been drawn from Air China’s fleet and specially prepared for presidential travel. Just last weekend, Xi was in New Delhi aboard a Boeing 747-8. It is the passenger version of the 747-8 and the last passenger variant of the 747 ever built. Unlike the US, China has released relatively little public information about the aircraft used by its top leader. In 2013, when Xi had just taken office, his overseas trips were carried out on Air China Boeing 747-400s. Whether for domestic or international missions, the dispatch and deployment of special aircraft are subject to strict procedures and a high level of confidentiality.&nbsp;Also Read; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture</a>&nbsp;While the White House maintains a dedicated web page on Air Force One that details its aircraft designation, tail numbers, on-board facilities and history, China receives the flight assignment and passes it to Air China through its office overseeing special flights, according to a rare media account in 2014. The crew would be determined and security checks and modifications to the aircraft carried out.&nbsp;Since there is no dedicated flight it is not a recognisable visual identity like Air Force One. The words “United States of America”, the American flag and the seal of the US president are emblazoned on its exterior, making the aircraft an immediately identifiable symbol of the American presidency wherever it flies. Trump currently flies on the VC-25B Bridge, a modified Boeing 747-8I introduced earlier this year as a temporary presidential aircraft. Estimated to be worth $400 million, it was gifted by Qatar’s royal family and offers greater speed and range than the older VC-25A planes.

Xi Jinping's aircraft for overseas trips is an Air China Boeing 747 specially modified for presidential travel, unlike the US's dedicated Air Force One fleet. Xi's plane has executive, official and media sections, while Air Force One has secure communications, medical suite

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in Washington but here we focus on the aircraft that carried him and how it stacks up against America’s presidential plane. The aircraft carrying China’s leader is referred to in state media and official statements as a zhuan ji, or special plane. Like Air Force One, this is also Boeing 747 but is lesser known. He landed at Joint Base Andrews on a heavily modified Air China Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental. Also Read: 'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US However, across the Pacific Ocean, China does not operate a dedicated presidential aircraft. Aircraft used for Xi’s overseas trips have been drawn from Air China’s fleet and specially prepared for presidential travel. Just last weekend, Xi was in New Delhi aboard a Boeing 747-8. It is the passenger version of the 747-8 and the last passenger variant of the 747 ever built. Unlike the US, China has released relatively little public information about the aircraft used by its top leader. In 2013, when Xi had just taken office, his overseas trips were carried out on Air China Boeing 747-400s. Whether for domestic or international missions, the dispatch and deployment of special aircraft are subject to strict procedures and a high level of confidentiality. Also Read; Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture While the White House maintains a dedicated web page on Air Force One that details its aircraft designation, tail numbers, on-board facilities and history, China receives the flight assignment and passes it to Air China through its office overseeing special flights, according to a rare media account in 2014. The crew would be determined and security checks and modifications to the aircraft carried out. Since there is no dedicated flight it is not a recognisable visual identity like Air Force One. The words “United States of America”, the American flag and the seal of the US president are emblazoned on its exterior, making the aircraft an immediately identifiable symbol of the American presidency wherever it flies. Trump currently flies on the VC-25B Bridge, a modified Boeing 747-8I introduced earlier this year as a temporary presidential aircraft. Estimated to be worth $400 million, it was gifted by Qatar’s royal family and offers greater speed and range than the older VC-25A planes.

Xi Jinping's aircraft for overseas trips is an Air China Boeing 747 specially modified for presidential travel, unlike the US's dedicated Air Force One fleet. Xi's plane has executive, official and media sections, while Air Force One has secure communications, medical suite

Xi Jinping's 'special plane' vs Trump's Air Force One: What's the difference?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived for his first state visit to the United States in 11 years, meeting Donald Trump for the second time this year. Trade, AI, tariffs, rare earths, Taiwan and the Iran war top the agenda. Analysts expect a visit heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress, as commitments from May's Beijing summit remain unevenly fulfilled.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-arrives-in-us-to-personal-trump-welcome-179023173096/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-arrives-in-us-to-personal-trump-welcome-179023173096/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Mar-a-Lago to a trade war: 2017-2020&nbsp;The leaders first met at Mar-a-Lago in April 2017, where they set up a 100-day trade plan. Trump made a state visit to Beijing that November, where companies announced deals worth about $250 billion. In December 2018, the two leaders met at the G20 in Buenos Aires and agreed to a 90-day tariff truce. They met again at the G20 in Osaka in June 2019 to restart stalled talks. In January 2020, the two sides signed the "Phase One" deal, in which China pledged to buy an additional $200 billion of American goods over two years.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partners-rather-than-rivals-xi-jinping-s-first-message-after-landing-in-us-for-trump-summit-1790209651359">'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US for Trump summit</a>&nbsp;Busan: October 2025&nbsp;Relations soured badly in 2025. US tariffs on Chinese imports hit 145% at the peak of the trade war, while Beijing's retaliatory duties reached 125%. The two leaders met in Busan, South Korea, on 30 October. China pledged to resume imports of soybeans and other US agricultural products, and both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation against fentanyl. The US said China agreed to buy at least 25 million metric tons of American soybeans in each of the following three years.&nbsp;Beijing: May 2026&nbsp;Trump visited China on May 14 and 15 for the first time in eight years. The summit produced purchase agreements, two new bilateral boards, and a shared commitment to "constructive strategic stability." The White House said China would buy at least $17 billion of U.S. agricultural goods annually through 2028, on top of its October 2025 soybean commitments. Both sides, however, have largely stuck to their own interpretations of those deals.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-welcomes-xi-jinping-in-rare-airport-gesture-photos-from-chinese-president-s-arrival-in-us-1790202905194">Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US</a>&nbsp;Progress Since: Uneven&nbsp;US and China have made uneven progress in fulfilling the trade commitments announced after the Beijing meeting. American officials have complained that China has not upheld its end of the bargain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington: September 2026&nbsp;Xi arrived in the United States on Wednesday (Sep 23) evening for his first state visit in 11 years, the second meeting of the two leaders this year. The agenda includes trade, investment, AI, the war with Iran, and Taiwan. Among the discussions is a reciprocal tariff reduction framework on products worth $30 billion or more. Experts expect the visit to be heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress.&nbsp;Across nearly a decade of meetings, the pattern has been consistent: warm summits and truces that ease tensions without settling the underlying disputes over technology, trade balances, and Taiwan. Whether this week's talks break that pattern will be clear only once the outcomes are announced.

Here's the full timeline of key meetings, summits, and major agreements between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, tracking the defining diplomatic milestones in US-China relations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived for his first state visit to the United States in 11 years, meeting Donald Trump for the second time this year. Trade, AI, tariffs, rare earths, Taiwan and the Iran war top the agenda. Analysts expect a visit heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress, as commitments from May's Beijing summit remain unevenly fulfilled. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-summit-xi-arrives-in-us-to-personal-trump-welcome-179023173096/embed Mar-a-Lago to a trade war: 2017-2020 The leaders first met at Mar-a-Lago in April 2017, where they set up a 100-day trade plan. Trump made a state visit to Beijing that November, where companies announced deals worth about $250 billion. In December 2018, the two leaders met at the G20 in Buenos Aires and agreed to a 90-day tariff truce. They met again at the G20 in Osaka in June 2019 to restart stalled talks. In January 2020, the two sides signed the "Phase One" deal, in which China pledged to buy an additional $200 billion of American goods over two years. Also read: 'Partners rather than rivals': Xi Jinping's first message after landing in US for Trump summit Busan: October 2025 Relations soured badly in 2025. US tariffs on Chinese imports hit 145% at the peak of the trade war, while Beijing's retaliatory duties reached 125%. The two leaders met in Busan, South Korea, on 30 October. China pledged to resume imports of soybeans and other US agricultural products, and both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation against fentanyl. The US said China agreed to buy at least 25 million metric tons of American soybeans in each of the following three years. Beijing: May 2026 Trump visited China on May 14 and 15 for the first time in eight years. The summit produced purchase agreements, two new bilateral boards, and a shared commitment to "constructive strategic stability." The White House said China would buy at least $17 billion of U.S. agricultural goods annually through 2028, on top of its October 2025 soybean commitments. Both sides, however, have largely stuck to their own interpretations of those deals. Also read: Trump welcomes Xi Jinping in rare airport gesture: Photos from Chinese President's arrival in US Progress Since: Uneven US and China have made uneven progress in fulfilling the trade commitments announced after the Beijing meeting. American officials have complained that China has not upheld its end of the bargain. Washington: September 2026 Xi arrived in the United States on Wednesday (Sep 23) evening for his first state visit in 11 years, the second meeting of the two leaders this year. The agenda includes trade, investment, AI, the war with Iran, and Taiwan. Among the discussions is a reciprocal tariff reduction framework on products worth $30 billion or more. Experts expect the visit to be heavy on optics and symbolism but light on substantive progress. Across nearly a decade of meetings, the pattern has been consistent: warm summits and truces that ease tensions without settling the underlying disputes over technology, trade balances, and Taiwan. Whether this week's talks break that pattern will be clear only once the outcomes are announced.

Here's the full timeline of key meetings, summits, and major agreements between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, tracking the defining diplomatic milestones in US-China relations.

Trump and Xi Jinping: Timeline of key meetings and major agreements

The &nbsp;Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the US has reportedly warned European governments of Spain, France and Italy of a possible drone attack by Russia. As per the assessment, Moscow could potentially use drones launched from commercial vessels in the Mediterranean to launch the attacks.&nbsp;According to El Mundo, second-largest printed daily newspaper in Spain, Russians plan to use commercial vehicles in international waters, turning civilian ships into mobile launch platforms for the attack to maintain plausible deniability.&nbsp;It further says that Russia is likely to use the indigenously built Gerbera suicide drones to carry out the attacks. These drones have a range of about 600 kilometers and are capable of carrying 4 to 5 kilograms of explosives.&nbsp;Potential targets listed in the CIA report are largely along the coast: ports, energy facilities, and coastal communication nodes. Spain, France, and Italy control Mediterranean shipping routes and are the hubs for European energy imports and maritime transport.&nbsp;In the wake of the warning of drone attacks by Russia, European governments have increased security around critical infrastructure, transport networks and military facilities.&nbsp;The CIA has yet to confirm the reported warning, as the information is currently based on media reports citing intelligence sources.<h2>CIA director's Russia visit</h2>&nbsp;CIA Director John Ratcliffe had made made a highly sensitive diplomatic trip to Moscow last month at the personal direction of President Donald Trump, with some senior White House officials reportedly unaware of the mission beforehand. Trump personally sent Ratcliffe to Russia and limited advance knowledge of the trip, including the specific message he was expected to deliver to senior Kremlin officials, according to US officials.&nbsp;The unusual mission, came after several rounds of diplomacy involving other Trump administration envoys failed to halt the fighting in Russia’s war against Ukraine.&nbsp;

The report further says that Russia is likely to use the indigenously built Gerbera suicide drones having a carrying capacity carry 4-5 kgs to carry out the attacks.

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the US has reportedly warned European governments of Spain, France and Italy of a possible drone attack by Russia. As per the assessment, Moscow could potentially use drones launched from commercial vessels in the Mediterranean to launch the attacks. According to El Mundo, second-largest printed daily newspaper in Spain, Russians plan to use commercial vehicles in international waters, turning civilian ships into mobile launch platforms for the attack to maintain plausible deniability. It further says that Russia is likely to use the indigenously built Gerbera suicide drones to carry out the attacks. These drones have a range of about 600 kilometers and are capable of carrying 4 to 5 kilograms of explosives. Potential targets listed in the CIA report are largely along the coast: ports, energy facilities, and coastal communication nodes. Spain, France, and Italy control Mediterranean shipping routes and are the hubs for European energy imports and maritime transport. In the wake of the warning of drone attacks by Russia, European governments have increased security around critical infrastructure, transport networks and military facilities. The CIA has yet to confirm the reported warning, as the information is currently based on media reports citing intelligence sources. CIA director's Russia visit CIA Director John Ratcliffe had made made a highly sensitive diplomatic trip to Moscow last month at the personal direction of President Donald Trump, with some senior White House officials reportedly unaware of the mission beforehand. Trump personally sent Ratcliffe to Russia and limited advance knowledge of the trip, including the specific message he was expected to deliver to senior Kremlin officials, according to US officials. The unusual mission, came after several rounds of diplomacy involving other Trump administration envoys failed to halt the fighting in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

The report further says that Russia is likely to use the indigenously built Gerbera suicide drones having a carrying capacity carry 4-5 kgs to carry out the attacks.

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