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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun vowed on Saturday to punish the perpetrators of an attack on a United Nations peacekeeping convoy a day earlier that wounded the force's outgoing deputy commander.
Aoun "condemned the attack... and emphasised that the attackers will receive their punishment", a statement from the presidency said on X.
"Security forces will not be lenient with any party that tries to upset stability and civil peace," it added.
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-grants-fewer-study-permits-to-indian-students-as-numbers-drop-by-32-per-cent-in-2024-8724586">&nbsp; </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-grants-fewer-study-permits-to-indian-students-as-numbers-drop-by-32-per-cent-in-2024-8724586">Canada grants fewer study permits to Indian students as numbers drop by 32 per cent in 2024</a>
Hezbollah supporters blocked the road to the country's only international airport for two consecutive nights over a decision barring two Iranian planes from landing in Beirut, with the army reporting unruly protests in the area Friday.
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) demanded an investigation after one of its vehicles was set on fire during the Friday night incident, wounding outgoing deputy force commander Chok Bahadur Dhakal as he was returning home.
The Lebanese army pledged to take firm action against those behind the attack, and the interior minister has called an emergency meeting of the Central Internal Security Council on Saturday morning.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-back-their-decision-trump-says-israel-must-decide-on-todays-deadline-to-free-all-hostages-8724421#google_vignette">'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES'</a>
The presidency's statement said Aoun had checked on the deputy commander's condition after the incident, which he said "cannot be allowed to be repeated".
The statement said he had "followed up on developments regarding roadblocks, setting fires and riots, and issued directives to the army and security forces to put a stop to these practices", adding that the judiciary "has begun investigations on the ground".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World| Hezbollah supporters blocked the road to the country's only international airport for two consecutive nights over a decision barring two Iranian planes from landing in Beirut, with the army reporting unruly protests in the area Friday.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun vowed on Saturday to punish the perpetrators of an attack on a United Nations peacekeeping convoy a day earlier that wounded the force's outgoing deputy commander. Aoun "condemned the attack... and emphasised that the attackers will receive their punishment", a statement from the presidency said on X. "Security forces will not be lenient with any party that tries to upset stability and civil peace," it added. Also Read | Canada grants fewer study permits to Indian students as numbers drop by 32 per cent in 2024 Hezbollah supporters blocked the road to the country's only international airport for two consecutive nights over a decision barring two Iranian planes from landing in Beirut, with the army reporting unruly protests in the area Friday. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) demanded an investigation after one of its vehicles was set on fire during the Friday night incident, wounding outgoing deputy force commander Chok Bahadur Dhakal as he was returning home. The Lebanese army pledged to take firm action against those behind the attack, and the interior minister has called an emergency meeting of the Central Internal Security Council on Saturday morning. Also Read | 'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES' The presidency's statement said Aoun had checked on the deputy commander's condition after the incident, which he said "cannot be allowed to be repeated". The statement said he had "followed up on developments regarding roadblocks, setting fires and riots, and issued directives to the army and security forces to put a stop to these practices", adding that the judiciary "has begun investigations on the ground". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lebanese president vows to punish attackers of UN peacekeeping convoy amid airport protests

Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk did not hesitate to slam his son in a recent podcast interview, as he called his son a "bad, neglectful father".&nbsp;
The billionaire's father said that Musk has not been present for his many children.&nbsp;
While speaking with Joshua Rubin, Musk's father accused the Tesla CEO of prioritising his work over his children and leaving them with the nannies.
In a short video shared on social media, Rubin was seen asking, "Do you think Elon is a good dad?" to which Errol Musk replied, "No, he hasn't been a good dad."
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-0_wVtoRU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Joshua Rubin (@joshwideawake)</a>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-is-the-father-influencer-claims-shes-secretly-given-birth-to-tesla-ceos-child-8723226">&lsquo;Elon Musk is the father&rsquo;: Influencer claims she&rsquo;d secretly given birth to Tesla CEO&rsquo;s child</a>
Speaking about Musk's first child, Nevada Alexander, who died when he was just 10 months old, Errol said, "The first child was too much with nannies and died in the care of a nanny."
<h2>'He's gonna shoot me if Elon hears this...'</h2>
Errol further said that if his son hears this, he's gonna shoot him.&nbsp;
"If Elon hears this, he's gonna shoot me or something. But anyway, that's what I think, that's not good," the billionaire's father said.&nbsp;
Commenting on Musk's parenting style, Errol said that they were too rich and hence too many nannies.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-shivon-zilis-elon-musks-girlfriend-with-indian-roots-8721289">Meet Shivon Zilis, Elon Musk's girlfriend with Indian roots</a>
"Then he had five children with the same woman. Five sons, each one had its own nanny. You following me?," he said.&nbsp;
When Rubin said that Musk never really spent time with his children, Errol reacted with a firm, "No."
<h2>Netizens react&nbsp;</h2>
In the video shared on Instagram, users shared mixed reactions to what Errol claimed. While, some said that he was brutally honest, others thought he was just stirring the pot.&nbsp;
"Sounds like he just wants kids but doesn't want to be a father," a user commented.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-expresses-honour-after-meeting-pm-narendra-modi-8720604">Elon Musk says 'an honour to meet' Indian PM Narendra Modi</a>
Another slammed Errol, saying, "Because Errol Musk is the beacon of shining morals."
One user commented, "Let me tell you who is a bad father, someone who would go and publicly criticise his own son for the attention."
Notably, recently, Musk was seen taking his young son X to public events. He took his son to a press conference in the Oval Office, where he was briefing along with US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
He also brought three of his children when he went to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-defends-elon-musk-munich-security-conference-election-interference-claims-8721870">'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims</a>
However, Elon's ex-partner Grimes expressed her disapproval of their son's X increasing public presence.&nbsp;
"He should not be in public like this,&rdquo; she wrote on X.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: While speaking with Joshua Rubin, Musk's father accused the Tesla CEO of prioritising his work over his children and leaving them with the nannies.

Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk did not hesitate to slam his son in a recent podcast interview, as he called his son a "bad, neglectful father". The billionaire's father said that Musk has not been present for his many children. While speaking with Joshua Rubin, Musk's father accused the Tesla CEO of prioritising his work over his children and leaving them with the nannies. In a short video shared on social media, Rubin was seen asking, "Do you think Elon is a good dad?" to which Errol Musk replied, "No, he hasn't been a good dad." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joshua Rubin (@joshwideawake) Also read: ‘Elon Musk is the father’: Influencer claims she’d secretly given birth to Tesla CEO’s child Speaking about Musk's first child, Nevada Alexander, who died when he was just 10 months old, Errol said, "The first child was too much with nannies and died in the care of a nanny." 'He's gonna shoot me if Elon hears this...' Errol further said that if his son hears this, he's gonna shoot him. "If Elon hears this, he's gonna shoot me or something. But anyway, that's what I think, that's not good," the billionaire's father said. Commenting on Musk's parenting style, Errol said that they were too rich and hence too many nannies. Also read: Meet Shivon Zilis, Elon Musk's girlfriend with Indian roots "Then he had five children with the same woman. Five sons, each one had its own nanny. You following me?," he said. When Rubin said that Musk never really spent time with his children, Errol reacted with a firm, "No." Netizens react In the video shared on Instagram, users shared mixed reactions to what Errol claimed. While, some said that he was brutally honest, others thought he was just stirring the pot. "Sounds like he just wants kids but doesn't want to be a father," a user commented. Also read: Elon Musk says 'an honour to meet' Indian PM Narendra Modi Another slammed Errol, saying, "Because Errol Musk is the beacon of shining morals." One user commented, "Let me tell you who is a bad father, someone who would go and publicly criticise his own son for the attention." Notably, recently, Musk was seen taking his young son X to public events. He took his son to a press conference in the Oval Office, where he was briefing along with US President Donald Trump. He also brought three of his children when he went to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read: 'You can survive few months of Elon Musk': US VP JD Vance defends X boss amid election interference claims However, Elon's ex-partner Grimes expressed her disapproval of their son's X increasing public presence. "He should not be in public like this,” she wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

'He's gonna shoot me if he hears this': Errol Musk slams son Elon's parenting, says he's 'not a good dad'

The number of study permits issued to Indian students for Canadian institutions saw a significant drop in 2024. Data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that only 189,070 permits were granted, marking a 32 per cent decline from 278,110 in 2023. &nbsp;
Indian students, who made up 41 per cent of all study permits in 2023, accounted for just 36 per cent in 2024.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-back-their-decision-trump-says-israel-must-decide-on-todays-deadline-to-free-all-hostages-8724421">'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES'</a>
<h2>Colleges face setbacks &nbsp;</h2>
The reduced intake of students has forced institutions to cut programs and staff. St Lawrence College announced the cancellation of 55 programs, while Centennial College suspended enrolment in 49 courses. Sheridan College put 40 programs on hold, and Seneca Polytechnic considered temporarily closing its Markham campus, as per the outlet CTV News.
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-control-over-us-health-agencies-raises-health-and-security-concerns-8724476"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-control-over-us-health-agencies-raises-health-and-security-concerns-8724476">Musk&rsquo;s control over US health agencies raises health and security concerns</a>
<h2>Stricter policies behind the decline &nbsp;</h2>
The decline is attributed to policy changes aimed at controlling immigration, as the Canadian government faced growing concerns over housing affordability and strain on public services. In response, several new regulations were introduced, significantly reducing international student admissions.
Pari Johnston, CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada, &ldquo;Just over a year ago, Ottawa launched a series of overlapping, hasty reforms which have harmed Canada&rsquo;s public postsecondary training capacity and the communities that colleges and institutes serve. This, at a time when these public assets are needed more than ever, given the major economic shock our country is now experiencing.&rdquo;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-maha-kumbh-mela-2025-extended-prayagraj-dm-clears-the-air-8724204"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-maha-kumbh-mela-2025-extended-prayagraj-dm-clears-the-air-8724204">Is Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 extended? Prayagraj DM clears the air</a>
she, criticised the rapid changes, stating that 2024 saw more reforms in the international student program than in the past decade. She highlighted that college applications from international students fell by 54 per cent, far exceeding the government's planned 35 per cent reduction. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World| Indian students, who made up 41 per cent of all study permits in 2023, accounted for just 36 per cent in 2024.

The number of study permits issued to Indian students for Canadian institutions saw a significant drop in 2024. Data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that only 189,070 permits were granted, marking a 32 per cent decline from 278,110 in 2023. Indian students, who made up 41 per cent of all study permits in 2023, accounted for just 36 per cent in 2024. Also Read | 'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES' Colleges face setbacks The reduced intake of students has forced institutions to cut programs and staff. St Lawrence College announced the cancellation of 55 programs, while Centennial College suspended enrolment in 49 courses. Sheridan College put 40 programs on hold, and Seneca Polytechnic considered temporarily closing its Markham campus, as per the outlet CTV News. Also Read | Musk’s control over US health agencies raises health and security concerns Stricter policies behind the decline The decline is attributed to policy changes aimed at controlling immigration, as the Canadian government faced growing concerns over housing affordability and strain on public services. In response, several new regulations were introduced, significantly reducing international student admissions. Pari Johnston, CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada, “Just over a year ago, Ottawa launched a series of overlapping, hasty reforms which have harmed Canada’s public postsecondary training capacity and the communities that colleges and institutes serve. This, at a time when these public assets are needed more than ever, given the major economic shock our country is now experiencing.” Also Read | Is Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 extended? Prayagraj DM clears the air she, criticised the rapid changes, stating that 2024 saw more reforms in the international student program than in the past decade. She highlighted that college applications from international students fell by 54 per cent, far exceeding the government's planned 35 per cent reduction. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada grants fewer study permits to Indian students, numbers drop by 32 per cent in 2024

Hamas said on Saturday that the United States, a mediator in the Gaza truce deal, must ensure that Israel abides by the agreement to secure the release of hostages still held in the Palestinian territory.
"The United States must compel the occupation to adhere to the agreement if it truly cares about the prisoners' (hostages) lives," said Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for Hamas, in a statement issued after Gaza militants freed three captives earlier in the day.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-back-their-decision-trump-says-israel-must-decide-on-todays-deadline-to-free-all-hostages-8724421">'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES'</a>
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: "The United States must compel the occupation to adhere to the agreement if it truly cares about the prisoners' (hostages) lives, Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for Hamas said.

Hamas said on Saturday that the United States, a mediator in the Gaza truce deal, must ensure that Israel abides by the agreement to secure the release of hostages still held in the Palestinian territory. "The United States must compel the occupation to adhere to the agreement if it truly cares about the prisoners' (hostages) lives," said Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for Hamas, in a statement issued after Gaza militants freed three captives earlier in the day. Also read: 'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES' Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas

Elon Musk, leading a Trump-backed government program called Doge, has gained access to important health agency systems. This move is worrying experts, as it could affect how the US handles health emergencies. &nbsp;
<h2>Thousands laid off from health agencies</h2>
The Trump administration recently fired thousands of employees from health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Around 1,250 people lost their jobs at the CDC alone, including top health officials and disease experts. &nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-back-their-decision-trump-says-israel-must-decide-on-todays-deadline-to-free-all-hostages-8724421"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-back-their-decision-trump-says-israel-must-decide-on-todays-deadline-to-free-all-hostages-8724421">'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES'</a>
<h2>Health risks growing amid bird flu spread &nbsp;</h2>
This shake-up is happening while the US faces the spread of bird flu. Experts warn that fewer workers and restricted communication within agencies could slow down the country&rsquo;s response to health crises as reported by The Guardian.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-sasha-troufanov-iair-horn-sagui-dekel-chen-israeli-hostages-freed-by-hamas-in-latest-ceasefire-swap-8723961">Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap</a>
<h2>Concerns over Medicare and Medicaid data </h2>
Musk&rsquo;s team has also accessed financial systems that control Medicare and Medicaid payments. While Musk claims he is investigating fraud, experts worry that this interference could harm people who rely on these healthcare programs. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-autopsy-report-confirms-suicide-in-openai-whistleblower-suchir-balajis-death-parents-question-findings-8724082">Final autopsy report confirms suicide in openAI whistleblower Suchir Balaji&rsquo;s death, parents question findings</a>
<h2>Fears over privacy and security</h2>
With Musk's team having access to sensitive government data, experts are warning about possible security risks. Health records and financial details of millions of Americans could be at risk, and there are few legal protections in place to prevent misuse as reported by The Guardian.
&ldquo;There&rsquo;s a whole lot&rdquo; of sensitive data running through these systems into individuals&rsquo; bank accounts, including personally identifiable information about individuals who are recipients of government benefits, like social security", said Scott Cory, former chief information officer for an agency within the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
(With inputs from agencies)

World| The Trump administration recently fired thousands of employees from health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Elon Musk, leading a Trump-backed government program called Doge, has gained access to important health agency systems. This move is worrying experts, as it could affect how the US handles health emergencies. Thousands laid off from health agencies The Trump administration recently fired thousands of employees from health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Around 1,250 people lost their jobs at the CDC alone, including top health officials and disease experts. Also Read | 'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES' Health risks growing amid bird flu spread This shake-up is happening while the US faces the spread of bird flu. Experts warn that fewer workers and restricted communication within agencies could slow down the country’s response to health crises as reported by The Guardian. Also Read | Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap Concerns over Medicare and Medicaid data Musk’s team has also accessed financial systems that control Medicare and Medicaid payments. While Musk claims he is investigating fraud, experts worry that this interference could harm people who rely on these healthcare programs. Also Read | Final autopsy report confirms suicide in openAI whistleblower Suchir Balaji’s death, parents question findings Fears over privacy and security With Musk's team having access to sensitive government data, experts are warning about possible security risks. Health records and financial details of millions of Americans could be at risk, and there are few legal protections in place to prevent misuse as reported by The Guardian. “There’s a whole lot” of sensitive data running through these systems into individuals’ bank accounts, including personally identifiable information about individuals who are recipients of government benefits, like social security", said Scott Cory, former chief information officer for an agency within the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). (With inputs from agencies)

Musk’s control over US health agencies raises health and security concerns, experts say

Hours after Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 15), US President Donald Trump said that now Israel will decide what they will do about "12:00 O&rsquo;CLOCK, TODAY, DEADLINE " imposed on the release of all hostages.&nbsp;
Trump further stressed that the US will back whatever decision Israel makes.
"Israel will now have to decide what they will do about the 12:00 O&rsquo;CLOCK, TODAY, DEADLINE imposed on the release of ALL HOSTAGES. The United States will back the decision they make!," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114007859463769499/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-sasha-troufanov-iair-horn-sagui-dekel-chen-israeli-hostages-freed-by-hamas-in-latest-ceasefire-swap-8723961">Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap</a>&nbsp;
This comes after Hamas released three hostages from Gaza, including an American citizen. Later, Israel also released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, 36 of them have been serving life sentences, and 333 were detained without charges.&nbsp;
"Hamas has just released three Hostages from GAZA, including an American Citizen. They seem to be in good shape! This differs from their statement last week that they would not release any Hostages," the US president posted.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap</a>
The deadline Trump is referring to is one he mentioned earlier this week, saying Hamas needed to release "all" hostages by noon today. However, it is unclear what time zone he was referring to, but earlier he said that Israel should let "all hell" break out if the deadline was not met.&nbsp;
At the beginning of this week, the Palestinian militant group said it would not release any hostages, claiming Israel violated the terms of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-accept-american-and-israeli-threats-hamas-warns-trump-netanyahu-over-gaza-ceasefire-ultimatum-8715064">ceasefire</a>.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buffer-zone-physical-barrier-trump-fund-inside-the-arab-nations-alternative-to-trumps-gaza-plan-8721926">'Buffer zone, physical barrier, 'Trump Fund': Inside the Arab nations' alternative to Trump's Gaza plan</a>
Later, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hamas it would end the ceasefire if Hamas does not return hostages by Saturday.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: This comes after Hamas released three hostages from Gaza, including an American citizen. Later, Israel also released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

Hours after Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 15), US President Donald Trump said that now Israel will decide what they will do about "12:00 O’CLOCK, TODAY, DEADLINE " imposed on the release of all hostages. Trump further stressed that the US will back whatever decision Israel makes. "Israel will now have to decide what they will do about the 12:00 O’CLOCK, TODAY, DEADLINE imposed on the release of ALL HOSTAGES. The United States will back the decision they make!," Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Also read: Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap This comes after Hamas released three hostages from Gaza, including an American citizen. Later, Israel also released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, 36 of them have been serving life sentences, and 333 were detained without charges. "Hamas has just released three Hostages from GAZA, including an American Citizen. They seem to be in good shape! This differs from their statement last week that they would not release any Hostages," the US president posted. Also read: Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap The deadline Trump is referring to is one he mentioned earlier this week, saying Hamas needed to release "all" hostages by noon today. However, it is unclear what time zone he was referring to, but earlier he said that Israel should let "all hell" break out if the deadline was not met. At the beginning of this week, the Palestinian militant group said it would not release any hostages, claiming Israel violated the terms of the ceasefire. Also read: 'Buffer zone, physical barrier, 'Trump Fund': Inside the Arab nations' alternative to Trump's Gaza plan Later, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hamas it would end the ceasefire if Hamas does not return hostages by Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will back their decision': Trump says Israel must decide on today's deadline to free 'ALL HOSTAGES'

Simran Preet Panesar, a former Air Canada manager wanted for his alleged role in Canada's biggest gold heist of over USD 20 million, has been found living with his family on the outskirts of Chandigarh, according to The Indian Express.&nbsp;
Panesar, 32, is wanted by the Canadian authorities for his alleged role in the gold heist.&nbsp;
The Indian Express collaborated with Canada-based CBC News and tracked Panesar after a month-long investigation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-biggest-gold-heist-two-indian-origin-men-among-six-arrested-712743">Canada's biggest gold heist: Two Indian-origin men among six arrested</a>
He was found living in a rented accommodation with his family including his wife Preety Panesar, who is a former Miss India Uganda, singer, and an actor.&nbsp;
However, Preety is not believed to have any role in the heist.&nbsp;
<h2>Canada's gold heist</h2>
On April 17, 2023, an air cargo container carrying more than 22 million Canadian dollars' worth of gold bars and foreign currency was stolen from a secure storage facility using fake paperwork.&nbsp;
The flight landed at Pearson International Airport from Switzerland's Zurich. There were 6,600 bars of .9999 per cent pure gold, weighing 400 kgs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-arrests-made-in-major-movie-like-gold-heist-in-canada-712407">Multiple arrests made in major movie-like gold heist in Canada</a>
After landing, the cargo was offloaded from the plane and transported to another location on the airport property.&nbsp;
A day later, on April 18, the cargo was reported missing.&nbsp;
After a year-long investigation, police started searching two Indo-Canadians who worked in the warehouse from where the gold was allegedly stolen as part of a heist.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gold-worth-100mn-stolen-from-canadas-toronto-airport-in-rare-heist-report-584604">Gold heist at Canada's Toronto airport could be country's biggest robbery in years</a>
The Indo-Canadians were identified as Brampton's Parampal Sidhu and Simran Preet Panesar.&nbsp;
Sidhu was arrested in May last year, but Panesar, who worked as a manager at the facility, left Canada by then. Panesar also facilitated a tour of the space to the police station.&nbsp;
Moreover, police arrested a total of six persons for their alleged involvement in Canada's biggest heist.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: He was found living in a rented accommodation with his family including his wife Preety Panesar, who is a former Miss India Uganda, singer, and an actor.

Simran Preet Panesar, a former Air Canada manager wanted for his alleged role in Canada's biggest gold heist of over USD 20 million, has been found living with his family on the outskirts of Chandigarh, according to The Indian Express. Panesar, 32, is wanted by the Canadian authorities for his alleged role in the gold heist. The Indian Express collaborated with Canada-based CBC News and tracked Panesar after a month-long investigation. Also read: Canada's biggest gold heist: Two Indian-origin men among six arrested He was found living in a rented accommodation with his family including his wife Preety Panesar, who is a former Miss India Uganda, singer, and an actor. However, Preety is not believed to have any role in the heist. Canada's gold heist On April 17, 2023, an air cargo container carrying more than 22 million Canadian dollars' worth of gold bars and foreign currency was stolen from a secure storage facility using fake paperwork. The flight landed at Pearson International Airport from Switzerland's Zurich. There were 6,600 bars of .9999 per cent pure gold, weighing 400 kgs. Also read: Multiple arrests made in major movie-like gold heist in Canada After landing, the cargo was offloaded from the plane and transported to another location on the airport property. A day later, on April 18, the cargo was reported missing. After a year-long investigation, police started searching two Indo-Canadians who worked in the warehouse from where the gold was allegedly stolen as part of a heist. Also read: Gold heist at Canada's Toronto airport could be country's biggest robbery in years The Indo-Canadians were identified as Brampton's Parampal Sidhu and Simran Preet Panesar. Sidhu was arrested in May last year, but Panesar, who worked as a manager at the facility, left Canada by then. Panesar also facilitated a tour of the space to the police station. Moreover, police arrested a total of six persons for their alleged involvement in Canada's biggest heist. (With inputs from agencies)

Simran Preet Panesar, suspect of Canada's biggest gold heist, found living in Chandigarh: Report

The San Francisco County Medical Examiner confirmed that Suchir Balaji passed away on November 26, 2024, from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound. &nbsp;
&nbsp;A final autopsy report released on Friday (Feb 14) has confirmed that 26-year-old OpenAI whistleblower Balaji died by suicide in his San Francisco apartment.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-sasha-troufanov-iair-horn-sagui-dekel-chen-israeli-hostages-freed-by-hamas-in-latest-ceasefire-swap-8723961">Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap</a>
<h2>Evidence supports suicide&nbsp; &nbsp;</h2>
The autopsy revealed that Balaji used a pistol registered in his name, with gunshot residue found on both hands. A ballistic test confirmed that the weapon fired the fatal shot, with the bullet trajectory described as front-to-back and downward. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap</a>
Authorities noted that Balaji&rsquo;s apartment door was locked from the inside with no signs of forced entry. Security footage and key fob records showed no one else had entered before his body was discovered. &nbsp;
San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott stated that after reviewing medical and investigative evidence, authorities found &ldquo;insufficient evidence&rdquo; to suggest Balaji was murdered. &nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-one-lakh-hens-culled-in-andhra-pradesh-as-the-indian-state-reports-bird-flu-outbreak-8723318"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-one-lakh-hens-culled-in-andhra-pradesh-as-the-indian-state-reports-bird-flu-outbreak-8723318">Bird flu scare: 100,000 hens culled in Andhra Pradesh as Indian state reports outbreak</a>
<h2>Family raises doubts </h2>
Balaji&rsquo;s parents, Poornima Ramarao and Bajami Ramamurthy are reviewing the report&rsquo;s findings. Poornima previously told Tucker Carlson that the FBI ignored potential evidence of foul play. She alleged that her son had critical documents against OpenAI, which were missing after his death. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-plane-collision-helicopter-crew-missed-key-instructions-due-to-stepped-on-transmission-says-ntsb-8723526">Washington Plane Collision: Helicopter crew missed key instructions due to 'stepped on' transmission, says NTSB</a>
&ldquo;My son had documents against OpenAI. They attacked him and killed him,&rdquo; she claimed. &nbsp;
<h2>Police declare the case closed &nbsp;</h2>
San Francisco officials extended condolences to Balaji&rsquo;s family, stating that they hoped the findings would bring some closure. With no evidence of foul play, the police have officially closed the case.
(With inputs from agencies)

World|  A final autopsy report released on Friday (Feb 14) has confirmed that 26-year-old OpenAI whistleblower Suchir Balaji died by suicide in his San Francisco apartment.

The San Francisco County Medical Examiner confirmed that Suchir Balaji passed away on November 26, 2024, from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound. A final autopsy report released on Friday (Feb 14) has confirmed that 26-year-old OpenAI whistleblower Balaji died by suicide in his San Francisco apartment. Also Read | Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap Evidence supports suicide The autopsy revealed that Balaji used a pistol registered in his name, with gunshot residue found on both hands. A ballistic test confirmed that the weapon fired the fatal shot, with the bullet trajectory described as front-to-back and downward. Also Read | Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap Authorities noted that Balaji’s apartment door was locked from the inside with no signs of forced entry. Security footage and key fob records showed no one else had entered before his body was discovered. San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott stated that after reviewing medical and investigative evidence, authorities found “insufficient evidence” to suggest Balaji was murdered. Also Read | Bird flu scare: 100,000 hens culled in Andhra Pradesh as Indian state reports outbreak Family raises doubts Balaji’s parents, Poornima Ramarao and Bajami Ramamurthy are reviewing the report’s findings. Poornima previously told Tucker Carlson that the FBI ignored potential evidence of foul play. She alleged that her son had critical documents against OpenAI, which were missing after his death. Also Read | Washington Plane Collision: Helicopter crew missed key instructions due to 'stepped on' transmission, says NTSB “My son had documents against OpenAI. They attacked him and killed him,” she claimed. Police declare the case closed San Francisco officials extended condolences to Balaji’s family, stating that they hoped the findings would bring some closure. With no evidence of foul play, the police have officially closed the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Final autopsy report confirms suicide in openAI whistleblower Suchir Balaji’s death, parents question findings

The Palestinian militant group Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 15), in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners released by Israel under the ceasefire deal.&nbsp;
The three hostages are identified as Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, Israeli-Russian Sasha Troufanov, and Israeli-Argentinian Yair Horn.
Hamas paraded them on stage before transferring them to the Red Cross and were told to address the crowd.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap</a>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the hostages, saying that the trio will be assisted in their rehabilitation following 498 days in captivity.&nbsp;
<h2>Who are these hostages?</h2>
<h3>Sagui Dekel-Chen</h3>
Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, 36, was outside his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz when Hamas attacked them. However, at that time, he ensured his wife and children were safe before he went out to fight the militants.&nbsp;
His mother Neomit, was also taken hostage in an electric cart and was rescued after an IDF helicopter shot at the driver.&nbsp;
After being released, Chen was seen smiling when the Israeli officials told him that he had a one-year-old daughter.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reiterates-his-call-on-hamas-to-release-hostages-dont-know-what-will-happen-tomorrow-8722652">'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas</a>
When asked about his health, Chen told Channel 12, "I&rsquo;m great, I&rsquo;m great, I have a daughter."
Chen's wife also expressed her happiness as she prepared to meet her husband.
<h3>Sasha Troufanov</h3>
29-year-old Sasha Troufanov was working at the Amazon-owned Annapurna Labs, as a microelectronics firm based in Israel.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-indirect-negotiations-for-second-phase-of-ceasefire-with-israel-to-begin-next-week-8722630">Hamas says indirect negotiations for second phase of ceasefire with Israel to begin next week</a>
He was abducted along with his girlfriend Sapir Cohen, mother Yelena "Lena" Trufanova and grandmother Irena Tati. His father Vitaly Troufanov, was killed on October 7.&nbsp;
Later, the mother and grandmother were released as per request of Russian President Vladimir Putin on November 29, 2023.&nbsp;
Cohen was released on November 30, as part of a weeklong ceasefire deal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-committed-to-freeing-gaza-hostages-according-to-specified-timetable-8718206">Hamas says committed to freeing hostages 'according to specified timetable'</a>
<h3>Iair Horn&nbsp;</h3>
Iair Horn, 46, was taken hostage by Hamas from Kibbutz Nir Oz where the Palestinian militant group killed one-fourth of the residents.&nbsp;
He was working in construction and was responsible for the local pub in the Kibbutz. Moreover, he also used to organise parties and local activities.&nbsp;
However, Eitan Horn, Iair's brother, is still in Hamas' captivity.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the hostages, saying that the trio will be assisted in their rehabilitation following 498 days in captivity.

The Palestinian militant group Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 15), in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners released by Israel under the ceasefire deal. The three hostages are identified as Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, Israeli-Russian Sasha Troufanov, and Israeli-Argentinian Yair Horn. Hamas paraded them on stage before transferring them to the Red Cross and were told to address the crowd. Also read: Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the hostages, saying that the trio will be assisted in their rehabilitation following 498 days in captivity. Who are these hostages? Sagui Dekel-Chen Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, 36, was outside his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz when Hamas attacked them. However, at that time, he ensured his wife and children were safe before he went out to fight the militants. His mother Neomit, was also taken hostage in an electric cart and was rescued after an IDF helicopter shot at the driver. After being released, Chen was seen smiling when the Israeli officials told him that he had a one-year-old daughter. Also read: 'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas When asked about his health, Chen told Channel 12, "I’m great, I’m great, I have a daughter." Chen's wife also expressed her happiness as she prepared to meet her husband. Sasha Troufanov 29-year-old Sasha Troufanov was working at the Amazon-owned Annapurna Labs, as a microelectronics firm based in Israel. Also read: Hamas says indirect negotiations for second phase of ceasefire with Israel to begin next week He was abducted along with his girlfriend Sapir Cohen, mother Yelena "Lena" Trufanova and grandmother Irena Tati. His father Vitaly Troufanov, was killed on October 7. Later, the mother and grandmother were released as per request of Russian President Vladimir Putin on November 29, 2023. Cohen was released on November 30, as part of a weeklong ceasefire deal. Also read: Hamas says committed to freeing hostages 'according to specified timetable' Iair Horn Iair Horn, 46, was taken hostage by Hamas from Kibbutz Nir Oz where the Palestinian militant group killed one-fourth of the residents. He was working in construction and was responsible for the local pub in the Kibbutz. Moreover, he also used to organise parties and local activities. However, Eitan Horn, Iair's brother, is still in Hamas' captivity. (With inputs from agencies)

Meet Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen - Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in latest ceasefire swap

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 15) said that Kyiv would never accept deals "reached behind our backs", stressing that Ukraine needs coordinated diplomacy.&nbsp;
While speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky said, "We will never accept deals reached behind our backs, without our involvement."
&ldquo;No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine, no decisions about Europe without Europe. Europe must have a seat at the table,&rdquo; Zelenskyy told the Conference.&nbsp;
He added that he would not take Nato membership for Ukraine off the table. "We need coordinated diplomacy &hellip; end of this war should be our &lsquo;first shared success.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-demands-real-security-guarantees-from-us-vice-president-vance-during-talks-in-munich-8722269">&lsquo;We want peace very much, but&hellip;&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;real security guarantees&rsquo; from Vance during talks in Munich</a>
According to a report by Reuters, Zelenskyy told leaders at the conference that it would be &ldquo;dangerous&rdquo; for US President Donald Trump to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin before him.
<h2>'Calls for another NATO in Ukraine'</h2>
The Ukrainian president said that if Ukraine does not achieve Nato membership, there should be conditions to build "another Nato in Ukraine".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-create-nato-in-ukraine-zelensky-on-nato-ambitions-trumps-personal-number-and-more-8722093">&lsquo;We will create NATO in Ukraine&rsquo;: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump&rsquo;s personal number, and more</a>
He stressed that now the most influential Nato member seems to be Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
"We cannot agree to a ceasefire without real security guarantees," he said.&nbsp;
<h2>Calls for European army</h2>
The Ukrainian president on Saturday said that the time has come for a European army to be created.&nbsp;
He added that the North Korean troops fighting Ukraine are learning "modern warfare".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-trump-talks-not-enough-for-peace-as-russia-skips-munich-security-conference-8721175">Ukraine's Zelensky says talks with Trump &lsquo;not enough&rsquo; for peace as Russia skips Munich Security Conference</a>
Zelensky urged for the European army's support, saying, "Our army alone is not enough, we need your support."
While addressing the conference, he said that Ukraine has clear intelligence that Russia plans to send troops to Belarus this summer, Reuters reported.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I urge you to act for your own sake.&rdquo; He also asked &ldquo;If Russia launches an attack or false-flag operation, are your armies ready?," the Ukrainian president urged the European leaders.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vances-munich-speech-slammed-by-europe-praised-by-russia-8722231">&lsquo;Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia</a>
<h2>'Weapons should be fully produced in Europe'</h2>
Zelensky said that the weapons should be fully produced in Europe, adding, "Europe must decide its own future."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine, no decisions about Europe without Europe. Europe must have a seat at the table,” Zelenskyy told the Conference.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 15) said that Kyiv would never accept deals "reached behind our backs", stressing that Ukraine needs coordinated diplomacy. While speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky said, "We will never accept deals reached behind our backs, without our involvement." “No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine, no decisions about Europe without Europe. Europe must have a seat at the table,” Zelenskyy told the Conference. He added that he would not take Nato membership for Ukraine off the table. "We need coordinated diplomacy … end of this war should be our ‘first shared success.” Also read: ‘We want peace very much, but…’: Zelensky demands ‘real security guarantees’ from Vance during talks in Munich According to a report by Reuters, Zelenskyy told leaders at the conference that it would be “dangerous” for US President Donald Trump to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin before him. 'Calls for another NATO in Ukraine' The Ukrainian president said that if Ukraine does not achieve Nato membership, there should be conditions to build "another Nato in Ukraine". Also read: ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more He stressed that now the most influential Nato member seems to be Vladimir Putin. "We cannot agree to a ceasefire without real security guarantees," he said. Calls for European army The Ukrainian president on Saturday said that the time has come for a European army to be created. He added that the North Korean troops fighting Ukraine are learning "modern warfare". Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says talks with Trump ‘not enough’ for peace as Russia skips Munich Security Conference Zelensky urged for the European army's support, saying, "Our army alone is not enough, we need your support." While addressing the conference, he said that Ukraine has clear intelligence that Russia plans to send troops to Belarus this summer, Reuters reported. “I urge you to act for your own sake.” He also asked “If Russia launches an attack or false-flag operation, are your armies ready?," the Ukrainian president urged the European leaders. Also read: ‘Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference’: JD Vance’s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia 'Weapons should be fully produced in Europe' Zelensky said that the weapons should be fully produced in Europe, adding, "Europe must decide its own future." (With inputs from agencies)

'Will never accept deals reached behind our backs', says Zelensky, calls for creation of 'European army'

The West Midlands Police re-released a mugshot of Farishta Jami, a 36-year-old convicted terrorist after she complained that the original photo didn't show her wearing a niqab.&nbsp;
Jami was found guilty of terrorism offences for planning to join the Islamic State in Afghanistan.
Initially, the Police released an image showing her full face and hair &ndash; but then published a second that showed only her eyes beneath a navy blue niqab.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chancellor-reeves-put-champagne-gift-on-expenses-whistleblower-raises-concerns-8723493">UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves accused of claiming expenses for champagne meant to be a gift</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Jami faces &ldquo;considerable distress&rdquo; because of photograph</h2>
Matthew Brook KC, Jami&rsquo;s barrister, told Leicester Crown Court on Friday that she had experienced &ldquo;considerable distress&rdquo; because of the photograph showing her full face.
Farishta Jami, a mother of four who had intended for her children to become martyrs for the Islamic State, was described in court as a devout and observant Muslim.
&ldquo;Reports of the verdicts yesterday used an image of my client, released by the police, in which her head wasn&rsquo;t covered,&rdquo; Mr Brook said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-plane-collision-helicopter-crew-missed-key-instructions-due-to-stepped-on-transmission-says-ntsb-8723526">Washington Plane Collision: Helicopter crew missed key instructions due to 'stepped on' transmission, says NTSB</a>
&ldquo;This has caused her some considerable distress and the police are going to release a different image. We would request that is used instead.&rdquo;
<h2 dir="ltr">&lsquo;Extremist propaganda&rsquo;</h2>
Justice Cheema-Grubb emphasised the importance of a well-supported sentence in such a serious case. She noted that Farishta Jami's online communications suggested a strong commitment to extremism, radical views, and a desire to influence others. However, the judge acknowledged that she lacked current information on Jami's mindset.
&ldquo;The online communications give every indication of a woman firmly committed to the cause and in possession of extremist propaganda, espousing radical views and intent on influencing others. However, I have no evidence of her current mindset,&rdquo; she said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-hamas-militants-lead-3-israeli-hostages-on-stage-8723396">Hamas hands over three Israeli hostages to Red Cross in Gaza</a>
The force released the second image showing Jami in a niqab, even though she had sat through the three-week trial in a hijab that showed her face.&nbsp;
Michelle Heeley KC, prosecuting, told the court that Jami made plans to take her family to Afghanistan to fight for the Islamic State in Khorasan (ISK). The court heard she had saved &pound;1,200 ($1511.40) to fund the flights and also shared extremist material on social media.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The police force reissued the mugshot of Farishta Jami, a convicted terrorist, after she requested a version showing her in a niqab, aligning with her personal beliefs.

The West Midlands Police re-released a mugshot of Farishta Jami, a 36-year-old convicted terrorist after she complained that the original photo didn't show her wearing a niqab. Jami was found guilty of terrorism offences for planning to join the Islamic State in Afghanistan. Initially, the Police released an image showing her full face and hair – but then published a second that showed only her eyes beneath a navy blue niqab. Also read | UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves accused of claiming expenses for champagne meant to be a gift Jami faces “considerable distress” because of photograph Matthew Brook KC, Jami’s barrister, told Leicester Crown Court on Friday that she had experienced “considerable distress” because of the photograph showing her full face. Farishta Jami, a mother of four who had intended for her children to become martyrs for the Islamic State, was described in court as a devout and observant Muslim. “Reports of the verdicts yesterday used an image of my client, released by the police, in which her head wasn’t covered,” Mr Brook said. Also read | Washington Plane Collision: Helicopter crew missed key instructions due to 'stepped on' transmission, says NTSB “This has caused her some considerable distress and the police are going to release a different image. We would request that is used instead.” ‘Extremist propaganda’ Justice Cheema-Grubb emphasised the importance of a well-supported sentence in such a serious case. She noted that Farishta Jami's online communications suggested a strong commitment to extremism, radical views, and a desire to influence others. However, the judge acknowledged that she lacked current information on Jami's mindset. “The online communications give every indication of a woman firmly committed to the cause and in possession of extremist propaganda, espousing radical views and intent on influencing others. However, I have no evidence of her current mindset,” she said. Also read | Hamas hands over three Israeli hostages to Red Cross in Gaza The force released the second image showing Jami in a niqab, even though she had sat through the three-week trial in a hijab that showed her face. Michelle Heeley KC, prosecuting, told the court that Jami made plans to take her family to Afghanistan to fight for the Islamic State in Khorasan (ISK). The court heard she had saved £1,200 ($1511.40) to fund the flights and also shared extremist material on social media. (With inputs from agencies)

Convicted IS terrorist's mugshot reissued after she complained she was not wearing a niqab

The widow of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny warned Friday that there was "no point trying to negotiate" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, amid talks on ending the Ukraine war.
"Even if you decided to negotiate with Putin, just remember he will lie," Yulia Navalnaya told the Munich Security Conference two days before the first anniversary of Navalny's death.&nbsp;
"He will betray," she said about Putin. "He will change the rules at the last moment and force you to play his game."
"There are only two possible outcomes for any deal with Putin. If he remains in power, he will find a way to break the agreement. If he loses power, the agreement will become meaningless."
Navalny's death last year coincided with the opening of the 2024 Munich Security Conference on February 16.
Navalny has been declared "extremist" by Russian authorities. In Russia, anybody who mentions Navalny or his Anti-Corruption Foundation without stating that they have been declared "extremist" is subject to fines or up to four years in prison for repeated offences.
The bereaved Navalnaya took to the stage in Munich shortly after the announcement of his death in an Artic prison camp.
She was on Friday speaking on a panel at the conference with the exiled Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya.
"By helping Ukraine, you're helping the whole region," Tikhanovskaya said during the discussion.
If Ukraine did not come out on top after the war, "Putin will be still strong enough to keep his influence on Belarus", she said.
"By putting Ukraine in a strong position during these negotiations, you put also Belarus, Moldova and other countries in a strong position."&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Alexei Navalny, warns against negotiating with Putin, citing his history of deceit and betrayal, during the Munich Security Conference.

The widow of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny warned Friday that there was "no point trying to negotiate" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, amid talks on ending the Ukraine war. "Even if you decided to negotiate with Putin, just remember he will lie," Yulia Navalnaya told the Munich Security Conference two days before the first anniversary of Navalny's death. "He will betray," she said about Putin. "He will change the rules at the last moment and force you to play his game." "There are only two possible outcomes for any deal with Putin. If he remains in power, he will find a way to break the agreement. If he loses power, the agreement will become meaningless." Navalny's death last year coincided with the opening of the 2024 Munich Security Conference on February 16. Navalny has been declared "extremist" by Russian authorities. In Russia, anybody who mentions Navalny or his Anti-Corruption Foundation without stating that they have been declared "extremist" is subject to fines or up to four years in prison for repeated offences. The bereaved Navalnaya took to the stage in Munich shortly after the announcement of his death in an Artic prison camp. She was on Friday speaking on a panel at the conference with the exiled Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya. "By helping Ukraine, you're helping the whole region," Tikhanovskaya said during the discussion. If Ukraine did not come out on top after the war, "Putin will be still strong enough to keep his influence on Belarus", she said. "By putting Ukraine in a strong position during these negotiations, you put also Belarus, Moldova and other countries in a strong position." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Widow of Alexei Navalny slams Putin, says any ceasefire deal with him will fail: 'He will betray'

A whistleblower's report has raised concerns about Chancellor Rachel Reeves' expenses during her time as a customer relations manager at HBOS in 2009.&nbsp;
Specifically, it alleges that Reeves claimed expenses for a bottle of champagne intended for a junior colleague, who later denied receiving it.
It follows a series of revelations by the BBC about an investigation into Reeves and two other senior managers at HBOS who were said to have used expenses to &ldquo;fund a lifestyle&rdquo; of dinners, events, taxis and gifts.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-dismisses-nearly-half-of-disease-detectives-even-as-bird-flu-concerns-rise-8722503">Trump administration dismisses nearly half of 'disease detectives' even as bird flu concerns rise</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Reeves claimed &pound;29.93 in expenses for a bottle of champagne</h2>
According to the documents seen by The Times, concerns were raised about Reeves&rsquo; use of expenses to buy a bottle of Mo&euml;t and Chandon for another more junior colleague working in the department.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves allegedly claimed &pound;29.93 ($37.70) in expenses for a bottle of champagne purchased at a Tesco store in Leeds, alongside her groceries. The expense claim categorised the champagne as "colleague entertaining and incentives", despite the intended recipient reportedly denying receipt of the gift.
The same expense claim also shows Reeves billed the company &pound;9.40 ($11.84) for sweets for her team, &pound;4.92 ($6.20) for biscuits for an away day and &pound;1.34 ($1.69) for a birthday card.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-is-the-father-influencer-claims-shes-secretly-given-birth-to-tesla-ceos-child-8723226">&lsquo;Elon Musk is the father&rsquo;: Influencer claims she&rsquo;s secretly given birth to Tesla CEO&rsquo;s child</a>
Internal emails obtained alongside the whistleblower's report show that a staff member questioned the champagne purchase, prompting an investigation into whether the intended recipient had received the gift.
In an email sent in early January 2009, the colleague in question denied receiving the champagne as a reward, jokingly stating they had received gratitude but "no Mo&euml;t" for their efforts. This response came seven weeks after Reeves had purchased the champagne.
What did Reeves's spokesperson say?
A spokesperson for Reeves told The Times that she was unaware of the claims that had been made against her or any investigation into her expenses.
&ldquo;Rachel is proud of the work she did at HBOS and the teams that she led; it is 16 years since she left the bank and the first time she was made aware of these claims was when approached by journalists. She was not aware of an investigation nor was she interviewed, and she did not face any disciplinary action on this or any other matters. All expenses were submitted and signed off in the proper way. Several former colleagues from her time at the bank, including HBOS&rsquo; former HR business partner, have corroborated this account. Rachel left HBOS in 2009 on good terms.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: A whistleblower's report has sparked scrutiny over Chancellor Rachel Reeves' expenses from her tenure as a customer relations manager at HBOS in

A whistleblower's report has raised concerns about Chancellor Rachel Reeves' expenses during her time as a customer relations manager at HBOS in 2009. Specifically, it alleges that Reeves claimed expenses for a bottle of champagne intended for a junior colleague, who later denied receiving it. It follows a series of revelations by the BBC about an investigation into Reeves and two other senior managers at HBOS who were said to have used expenses to “fund a lifestyle” of dinners, events, taxis and gifts. Also read | Trump administration dismisses nearly half of 'disease detectives' even as bird flu concerns rise Reeves claimed £29.93 in expenses for a bottle of champagne According to the documents seen by The Times, concerns were raised about Reeves’ use of expenses to buy a bottle of Moët and Chandon for another more junior colleague working in the department. Chancellor Rachel Reeves allegedly claimed £29.93 ($37.70) in expenses for a bottle of champagne purchased at a Tesco store in Leeds, alongside her groceries. The expense claim categorised the champagne as "colleague entertaining and incentives", despite the intended recipient reportedly denying receipt of the gift. The same expense claim also shows Reeves billed the company £9.40 ($11.84) for sweets for her team, £4.92 ($6.20) for biscuits for an away day and £1.34 ($1.69) for a birthday card. Also read | ‘Elon Musk is the father’: Influencer claims she’s secretly given birth to Tesla CEO’s child Internal emails obtained alongside the whistleblower's report show that a staff member questioned the champagne purchase, prompting an investigation into whether the intended recipient had received the gift. In an email sent in early January 2009, the colleague in question denied receiving the champagne as a reward, jokingly stating they had received gratitude but "no Moët" for their efforts. This response came seven weeks after Reeves had purchased the champagne. What did Reeves's spokesperson say? A spokesperson for Reeves told The Times that she was unaware of the claims that had been made against her or any investigation into her expenses. “Rachel is proud of the work she did at HBOS and the teams that she led; it is 16 years since she left the bank and the first time she was made aware of these claims was when approached by journalists. She was not aware of an investigation nor was she interviewed, and she did not face any disciplinary action on this or any other matters. All expenses were submitted and signed off in the proper way. Several former colleagues from her time at the bank, including HBOS’ former HR business partner, have corroborated this account. Rachel left HBOS in 2009 on good terms.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves accused of claiming expenses for champagne meant to be a gift

Washington Plane Collison: The Army Black Hawk helicopter that collided midair with an American Airlines jet near Ronald Reagan National Airport on Jan 29 may have had faulty altitude readings and missed key air traffic control instructions moments before impact, investigators revealed Friday (Feb 14). &nbsp;
<h2>Interrupted transmission</h2>
As per National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy, the recording from the black hawk has revealed that a "stepped on" transmission left the crew unable to understand how to shift positions just before the crash.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-hawk-helicopter-crash-in-alabama-kills-everyone-on-board-562496">Black Hawk helicopter crash in Alabama kills everyone on board</a>
Here 'stepped on' means two communications overlapped, blocking part of the message. &nbsp;
On January 29, 2025, the collision between the two aircraft killed all 67 people aboard.&nbsp;
"That transmission was interrupted -&ndash; it was stepped on," Homendy explained, leaving the helicopter crew unable to hear the command to "pass behind the" jet. This, she said, happened because the helicopter&rsquo;s microphone key was pressed at the same moment.
Investigators are also examining discrepancies in the helicopter&rsquo;s altitude readings, potential miscommunication between the pilots, and whether night vision goggles affected their situational awareness. &nbsp;
The final report could take over a year to complete, and Homendy cautioned against premature conclusions. "We&rsquo;re only a couple weeks out," she said, adding "We have a lot of work to do."&nbsp;
<h2>What went wrong?</h2>
The Black Hawk was conducting a routine exercise to certify one of its pilots when it collided with the passenger jet. Investigators believe both pilots were wearing night vision goggles throughout the mission. &nbsp;
At the time of impact, the helicopter was reportedly flying above its 200 feet (60.96 m) altitude limit for that airspace. However, conflicting cockpit conversation from minutes before the crash suggests discrepancies&mdash;one pilot called out 300 feet (91.44 m), while the instructor pilot reported 400 feet (121.92 m), said Homendy. The radio altitude of the aircraft puts it at an altitude of 278 feet (84.73 m). &nbsp;
Homendy confirmed investigators are looking into "the possibility there may be bad data." The Black Hawk was equipped with both barometric and radio altimeters, and it remains unclear what readings the crew relied upon. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585">Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
Additionally, aviation experts suggest the pilots may have fixated on a different plane. "If they did indeed lock onto that departing airplane and assume that&rsquo;s the traffic they were supposed to be avoiding, they didn&rsquo;t see the other airplane coming," said aviation safety professor William Waldock. &nbsp;
Meanwhile, the American Airlines jet&mdash;on approach from Wichita, Kansas&mdash;made a sudden sharp climb just before impact. Experts believe this was a "last-ditch attempt to escape" the crash.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | The NTSB reveals that a stepped-on transmission led to missed air traffic instructions, contributing to the fatal collision near Ronald Reagan National Airport.

Washington Plane Collison: The Army Black Hawk helicopter that collided midair with an American Airlines jet near Ronald Reagan National Airport on Jan 29 may have had faulty altitude readings and missed key air traffic control instructions moments before impact, investigators revealed Friday (Feb 14). Interrupted transmission As per National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy, the recording from the black hawk has revealed that a "stepped on" transmission left the crew unable to understand how to shift positions just before the crash. Also read | Black Hawk helicopter crash in Alabama kills everyone on board Here 'stepped on' means two communications overlapped, blocking part of the message. On January 29, 2025, the collision between the two aircraft killed all 67 people aboard. "That transmission was interrupted -– it was stepped on," Homendy explained, leaving the helicopter crew unable to hear the command to "pass behind the" jet. This, she said, happened because the helicopter’s microphone key was pressed at the same moment. Investigators are also examining discrepancies in the helicopter’s altitude readings, potential miscommunication between the pilots, and whether night vision goggles affected their situational awareness. The final report could take over a year to complete, and Homendy cautioned against premature conclusions. "We’re only a couple weeks out," she said, adding "We have a lot of work to do." What went wrong? The Black Hawk was conducting a routine exercise to certify one of its pilots when it collided with the passenger jet. Investigators believe both pilots were wearing night vision goggles throughout the mission. At the time of impact, the helicopter was reportedly flying above its 200 feet (60.96 m) altitude limit for that airspace. However, conflicting cockpit conversation from minutes before the crash suggests discrepancies—one pilot called out 300 feet (91.44 m), while the instructor pilot reported 400 feet (121.92 m), said Homendy. The radio altitude of the aircraft puts it at an altitude of 278 feet (84.73 m). Homendy confirmed investigators are looking into "the possibility there may be bad data." The Black Hawk was equipped with both barometric and radio altimeters, and it remains unclear what readings the crew relied upon. Also read | Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on Additionally, aviation experts suggest the pilots may have fixated on a different plane. "If they did indeed lock onto that departing airplane and assume that’s the traffic they were supposed to be avoiding, they didn’t see the other airplane coming," said aviation safety professor William Waldock. Meanwhile, the American Airlines jet—on approach from Wichita, Kansas—made a sudden sharp climb just before impact. Experts believe this was a "last-ditch attempt to escape" the crash. (With inputs from agencies)

Washington Plane Collision: Helicopter crew missed key instructions due to 'stepped on' transmission, says NTSB

Masked Hamas militants on Saturday (Feb 15) handed over three Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza's southern city of Khan Yunis. This was followed by release of dozens of Palestinian prisoners. The swap was part of the hostage-prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel.
Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, Israeli-Russian Sasha Trupanov and Israeli-Argentinian Yair Horn were taken by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers after their release.
They were paraded on stage by Hamas before being transferred to the Red Cross and were told to address the crowd.
The three men were also given goodie bags by the Palestinian militant group to mark the end of their captivity.
Surrounded by armed fighters, the former hostages addressed the crowd using a microphone, appealing for the completion of further hostage swaps under the ongoing ceasefire agreement.
The hostages are back in Israeli territory, the country's military said in a statement later.
"A short while ago, accompanied by IDF (military) and ISA (internal security) forces, the returning hostages crossed the border into Israeli territory," the military said.
The IDF had earlier released a statement saying that the returning hostages were being accompanied by the army and were on their way to the Israeli territory.
"The 3 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment," the post by IDF said on X.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reiterates-his-call-on-hamas-to-release-hostages-dont-know-what-will-happen-tomorrow-8722652">Also read: 'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas</a> &nbsp; "The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel," it added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m75yx2b8-5gdrmzep-6ois6jum">
🟡The 3 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment. The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel.
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1890680552186917248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m75yxupu-jea1sr36-3uy75qcr">
After 498 days, Alexandre, Sagui and Iair are finally home.💛 <a href="https://t.co/JqM1SThbBQ">pic.twitter.com/JqM1SThbBQ</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1890684290951692793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Israel begins releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners</h2>
Following this, buses full of Palestinian prisoners departed the Israeli-run Ofer Prison.
They were greeted by a cheering crowd in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah. According to some reports, as many as 369 Palestinian prisoners and detainees would eventually be released on Saturday after Hamas handed over the three Israeli hostages.
Many of the freed Palestinians were immediately transferred to hospitals as they were in poor health, said the reports.
"Our teams are transferring four released (Palestinian) prisoners from the location of reception to the hospital," the Palestine Red Crescent Society said in a statement.
<h2>Hamas says committed to freeing Gaza hostages 'according to specified timetable'</h2>
The release comes after the Palestinian militant group on Thursday (Feb 13) reaffirmed its commitment to releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza under a timeline set out in a ceasefire deal for the territory.
"Hamas confirms continuation in implementing the agreement in accordance with what was signed, including the exchange of prisoners (Israeli hostages) according to the specified timetable," the group said in a statement.&nbsp;
It described the ongoing talks in Cairo, aimed at resolving the stalemate in implementing the ceasefire agreement, as "positive" and productive.
The Palestinian militant group, on Monday (Feb 10), announced that it would postpone the next hostage-prisoner swap, scheduled on Saturday, indefinitely citing a series of violations of the ceasefire deal by Israel.
(With input from agencies)

World news: Surrounded by armed fighters, the former hostages addressed the crowd using a microphone, appealing for the completion of further hostage swaps under the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

Masked Hamas militants on Saturday (Feb 15) handed over three Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza's southern city of Khan Yunis. This was followed by release of dozens of Palestinian prisoners. The swap was part of the hostage-prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel. Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, Israeli-Russian Sasha Trupanov and Israeli-Argentinian Yair Horn were taken by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers after their release. They were paraded on stage by Hamas before being transferred to the Red Cross and were told to address the crowd. The three men were also given goodie bags by the Palestinian militant group to mark the end of their captivity. Surrounded by armed fighters, the former hostages addressed the crowd using a microphone, appealing for the completion of further hostage swaps under the ongoing ceasefire agreement. The hostages are back in Israeli territory, the country's military said in a statement later. "A short while ago, accompanied by IDF (military) and ISA (internal security) forces, the returning hostages crossed the border into Israeli territory," the military said. The IDF had earlier released a statement saying that the returning hostages were being accompanied by the army and were on their way to the Israeli territory. "The 3 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment," the post by IDF said on X. Also read: 'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas "The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel," it added. 🟡The 3 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment. The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 15, 2025 After 498 days, Alexandre, Sagui and Iair are finally home.💛 pic.twitter.com/JqM1SThbBQ — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 15, 2025 Israel begins releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners Following this, buses full of Palestinian prisoners departed the Israeli-run Ofer Prison. They were greeted by a cheering crowd in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah. According to some reports, as many as 369 Palestinian prisoners and detainees would eventually be released on Saturday after Hamas handed over the three Israeli hostages. Many of the freed Palestinians were immediately transferred to hospitals as they were in poor health, said the reports. "Our teams are transferring four released (Palestinian) prisoners from the location of reception to the hospital," the Palestine Red Crescent Society said in a statement. Hamas says committed to freeing Gaza hostages 'according to specified timetable' The release comes after the Palestinian militant group on Thursday (Feb 13) reaffirmed its commitment to releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza under a timeline set out in a ceasefire deal for the territory. "Hamas confirms continuation in implementing the agreement in accordance with what was signed, including the exchange of prisoners (Israeli hostages) according to the specified timetable," the group said in a statement. It described the ongoing talks in Cairo, aimed at resolving the stalemate in implementing the ceasefire agreement, as "positive" and productive. The Palestinian militant group, on Monday (Feb 10), announced that it would postpone the next hostage-prisoner swap, scheduled on Saturday, indefinitely citing a series of violations of the ceasefire deal by Israel. (With input from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: 3 Hamas hostages, dozens of Palestinian prisoners released in latest swap

Conservative influencer and columnist Ashley St. Clair claimed on Friday (Feb 14) that she gave birth to Elon Musk's baby five months ago. Her post is quickly gaining traction, with people sharing varied remarks - from congratulating her to talking about the world&rsquo;s richest man.
The alleged new mother, Clair, 26, is a conservative firebrand opinion maker who has previously courted controversy by fraternising with the far right. 
In a post on X, the social media platform owned by Musk, she wrote: &ldquo;Five months ago, I welcomed a new baby into the world. Elon Musk is the father."
Clair said that she previously didn&rsquo;t disclose this for her child&rsquo;s safety "but now it has become clear that the media intends to do so regardless of the harm caused."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-does-s-jaishankar-responds-to-us-senator-saying-democracy-doesnt-put-food-on-table-8722821">&lsquo;It does&rsquo;: S Jaishankar responds to US Senator saying democracy doesn't put food on table</a>
&ldquo;I have not previously disclosed this to protect our child&rsquo;s privacy and safety, but in recent days it has become clear that tabloid media intends to do so, regardless of the harm it will cause. I intend to allow our child to grow in a normal and safe environment. For that reason, I ask that the media honor our child&rsquo;s privacy, and refrain from invasive reporting," Clair added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Alea Iacta Est <a href="https://t.co/gvVaFNTGqn">pic.twitter.com/gvVaFNTGqn</a>
&mdash; Ashley St. Clair (@stclairashley) <a href="https://twitter.com/stclairashley/status/1890554279749951687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2 dir="ltr">Musk fathered 12 children over 20 years</h2>
According to People magazine, the Tesla CEO has fathered 12 children with different women over 20 years. He first became a father in 2002 when he and ex-wife, Canadian author Justine Wilson, welcomed their son Nevada Alexander. Tragically, the baby passed away when he was 10 weeks old.
After their first child, Musk and his wife resorted to IVF, expanding their family with five more children: twins Vivian and Griffin, and triplets Kai, Saxon, and Damian. 
Notably, Vivian, formerly known as Xavier, is Elon Musk's transgender daughter, with whom he has had a strained relationship due to her transition.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reiterates-his-call-on-hamas-to-release-hostages-dont-know-what-will-happen-tomorrow-8722652">'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas</a>
Musk's marriage to Justine Wilson ended in divorce in 2008 after a seven-year union. He then had a tumultuous relationship with actress Talulah Riley, marrying her twice without having children together. 
Musk expanded his family again in 2020 when he had a child, X &AElig; A-Xii, with his partner, singer Grimes.
People reported that the couple went on to have two more children, a girl, Exa Dark Sider&aelig;l, and a boy, Techno Mechanicus.
In addition to his other children, Elon Musk also has twins, Strider and Azure, with Shivon Zilis, an executive at Neuralink, which also is owned by Musk.&nbsp;
Furthermore, the couple reportedly welcomed another child in 2024, whose name has not been publicly revealed.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Conservative influencer Ashley St. Clair claims she gave birth to Elon Musk's child, sparking a social media frenzy with mixed reactions, from congratulations to scepticism.

Conservative influencer and columnist Ashley St. Clair claimed on Friday (Feb 14) that she gave birth to Elon Musk's baby five months ago. Her post is quickly gaining traction, with people sharing varied remarks - from congratulating her to talking about the world’s richest man. The alleged new mother, Clair, 26, is a conservative firebrand opinion maker who has previously courted controversy by fraternising with the far right. In a post on X, the social media platform owned by Musk, she wrote: “Five months ago, I welcomed a new baby into the world. Elon Musk is the father." Clair said that she previously didn’t disclose this for her child’s safety "but now it has become clear that the media intends to do so regardless of the harm caused." Also read | ‘It does’: S Jaishankar responds to US Senator saying democracy doesn't put food on table “I have not previously disclosed this to protect our child’s privacy and safety, but in recent days it has become clear that tabloid media intends to do so, regardless of the harm it will cause. I intend to allow our child to grow in a normal and safe environment. For that reason, I ask that the media honor our child’s privacy, and refrain from invasive reporting," Clair added. Alea Iacta Est pic.twitter.com/gvVaFNTGqn — Ashley St. Clair (@stclairashley) February 15, 2025 Musk fathered 12 children over 20 years According to People magazine, the Tesla CEO has fathered 12 children with different women over 20 years. He first became a father in 2002 when he and ex-wife, Canadian author Justine Wilson, welcomed their son Nevada Alexander. Tragically, the baby passed away when he was 10 weeks old. After their first child, Musk and his wife resorted to IVF, expanding their family with five more children: twins Vivian and Griffin, and triplets Kai, Saxon, and Damian. Notably, Vivian, formerly known as Xavier, is Elon Musk's transgender daughter, with whom he has had a strained relationship due to her transition. Also read | 'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas Musk's marriage to Justine Wilson ended in divorce in 2008 after a seven-year union. He then had a tumultuous relationship with actress Talulah Riley, marrying her twice without having children together. Musk expanded his family again in 2020 when he had a child, X Æ A-Xii, with his partner, singer Grimes. People reported that the couple went on to have two more children, a girl, Exa Dark Sideræl, and a boy, Techno Mechanicus. In addition to his other children, Elon Musk also has twins, Strider and Azure, with Shivon Zilis, an executive at Neuralink, which also is owned by Musk. Furthermore, the couple reportedly welcomed another child in 2024, whose name has not been publicly revealed. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Elon Musk is the father’: Influencer claims she’d secretly given birth to Tesla CEO’s child

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) detected 19 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, eight People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, and one official ship operating in the region up until 6 am (UTC+8) today.
Of the 19 aircraft, 15 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). A Chinese balloon was also detected during this period.
Sharing a post on X, MND wrote, "19 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m75v4l66-27j4r9s4-2qjkla2a">
19 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 15 out of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan&rsquo;s northern and southwestern ADIZ. 1 PRC balloon was detected during this timeframe. <a href="https://t.co/ED2l89iH4c">pic.twitter.com/ED2l89iH4c</a>
&mdash; 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoNDefense/status/1890566700518580570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
It added, "15 out of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. 1 PRC balloon was detected during this timeframe."
Meanwhile, following the recent transit of two US ships through the Taiwan Strait, Beijing reiterated its position on Taiwan, emphasised that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory and stated that it "opposes any country challenging or threatening China's sovereignty and security under the pretext of freedom of navigation."
During a regular press conference on Wednesday, Guo Jiakun, Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said, "Let me stress that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The Taiwan question has nothing to do with freedom of navigation but bears on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity."
He added, "China firmly opposes any country challenging or threatening China's sovereignty and security under the pretext of freedom of navigation."
In recent weeks, China has visibly increased its capacity to conduct amphibious assaults on Taiwan's beaches with new naval equipment. This includes the formal launch of a unique advanced landing helicopter assault (LHA) vessel and the mass production of floating bridge docks to aid ship unloading during beach landings.
The Taiwan-China conflict remained a longstanding geopolitical issue centred on Taiwan's sovereignty. While Taiwan functioned as a de facto independent state with its own government, military, and economy, Beijing considered it a breakaway province under the "One China" policy.
Since the Chinese Civil War (1945-1949), when the Republic of China government retreated to Taiwan, China had used diplomatic, economic, and military measures to pressure Taiwan, which continued to assert its independence with strong domestic support.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World news: Sharing a post on X, MND wrote, "19 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today."

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) detected 19 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, eight People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, and one official ship operating in the region up until 6 am (UTC+8) today. Of the 19 aircraft, 15 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). A Chinese balloon was also detected during this period. Sharing a post on X, MND wrote, "19 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today." 19 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 15 out of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern and southwestern ADIZ. 1 PRC balloon was detected during this timeframe. pic.twitter.com/ED2l89iH4c — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) February 15, 2025 It added, "15 out of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. 1 PRC balloon was detected during this timeframe." Meanwhile, following the recent transit of two US ships through the Taiwan Strait, Beijing reiterated its position on Taiwan, emphasised that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory and stated that it "opposes any country challenging or threatening China's sovereignty and security under the pretext of freedom of navigation." During a regular press conference on Wednesday, Guo Jiakun, Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said, "Let me stress that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The Taiwan question has nothing to do with freedom of navigation but bears on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity." He added, "China firmly opposes any country challenging or threatening China's sovereignty and security under the pretext of freedom of navigation." In recent weeks, China has visibly increased its capacity to conduct amphibious assaults on Taiwan's beaches with new naval equipment. This includes the formal launch of a unique advanced landing helicopter assault (LHA) vessel and the mass production of floating bridge docks to aid ship unloading during beach landings. The Taiwan-China conflict remained a longstanding geopolitical issue centred on Taiwan's sovereignty. While Taiwan functioned as a de facto independent state with its own government, military, and economy, Beijing considered it a breakaway province under the "One China" policy. Since the Chinese Civil War (1945-1949), when the Republic of China government retreated to Taiwan, China had used diplomatic, economic, and military measures to pressure Taiwan, which continued to assert its independence with strong domestic support. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwan detects 19 Chinese aircraft, 8 vessels around its territory

Ten labourers were killed on Friday when their vehicle was hit by a blast from an improvised explosive device (IED) in southwest Pakistan, an official said.&nbsp;
Security forces have been battling a decades-long insurgency by separatist groups in impoverished Balochistan, with violence in the border regions surging over the past three years. &nbsp;
On Friday, a group of labourers were travelling to a market in Harnai district when it was hit by the blast, said local government official Saleem Tareen, adding that it was "an IED blast".&nbsp;
"Ten mine workers were killed in an attack in Harnai district," added Shahzad Zahri, another senior government official.
Harnai is over 160 kilometres (100 miles) from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan.&nbsp;
In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his "commitment to actively working towards eradicating the menace of terrorism from the country".
No group has claimed the attack.&nbsp;
However, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is the most active group in the region and often carries out deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces.
The group has also targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan.
Earlier this month, a vehicle carrying troops in a town in Balochistan came under fire from 70 to 80 assailants who had blocked the road &nbsp;
In another attack in January, at least six people including Pakistani paramilitary troops were killed and scores injured in a bombing.
Both the attacks were claimed by BLA.&nbsp;
Last year, in one of the deadliest attacks in the region according to analysts, BLA separatist militants killed at least 39 people in "coordinated" attacks that largely targeted ethnic Punjabis.&nbsp;
Violence has surged in Pakistan's border regions since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.
Pakistan has accused the Taliban government of failing to rout out militants who launch attacks from Afghan soil, a charge it denies.
Last year was the deadliest in a decade for Pakistan, with a surge in attacks that killed over 1,500 people, including 685 members of the police or security forces, according to the Center for Research and Security Studies, an Islamabad-based analysis group.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World news: The group has also targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan.

Ten labourers were killed on Friday when their vehicle was hit by a blast from an improvised explosive device (IED) in southwest Pakistan, an official said. Security forces have been battling a decades-long insurgency by separatist groups in impoverished Balochistan, with violence in the border regions surging over the past three years. On Friday, a group of labourers were travelling to a market in Harnai district when it was hit by the blast, said local government official Saleem Tareen, adding that it was "an IED blast". "Ten mine workers were killed in an attack in Harnai district," added Shahzad Zahri, another senior government official. Harnai is over 160 kilometres (100 miles) from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan. In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his "commitment to actively working towards eradicating the menace of terrorism from the country". No group has claimed the attack. However, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is the most active group in the region and often carries out deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces. The group has also targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan. Earlier this month, a vehicle carrying troops in a town in Balochistan came under fire from 70 to 80 assailants who had blocked the road In another attack in January, at least six people including Pakistani paramilitary troops were killed and scores injured in a bombing. Both the attacks were claimed by BLA. Last year, in one of the deadliest attacks in the region according to analysts, BLA separatist militants killed at least 39 people in "coordinated" attacks that largely targeted ethnic Punjabis. Violence has surged in Pakistan's border regions since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021. Pakistan has accused the Taliban government of failing to rout out militants who launch attacks from Afghan soil, a charge it denies. Last year was the deadliest in a decade for Pakistan, with a surge in attacks that killed over 1,500 people, including 685 members of the police or security forces, according to the Center for Research and Security Studies, an Islamabad-based analysis group. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bomb blast kills 10 labourers in southwest Pakistan

United States President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 14) expressed uncertainty about the hostage release.&nbsp;
He stated he wasn't sure about what would happen on Saturday, referring to his deadline for Hamas to release hostages held in Gaza since Oct 7, 2023.
This came after he issued an ultimatum earlier in the week, warning that "all hell will break out" if Hamas fails to meet the deadline. The US president reiterated his demand for Hamas to release the hostages.
Speaking about the hostages released last week, Trump said that they were treated very badly by the Palestinian militant group and that they had turned weak after being in captivity.
When asked about his deadline for the release of hostages, Trump said, "I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow at 12 o'clock. It was up to me. I'd take a very hard stance. I can't tell you what Israel is going to do. But, I watched the last people come out and I looked at it before and after the picture. One guy was a big, strong, healthy guy. Could say he was a little bit overweight? He's not overweight anymore. He looks like he just came out of the Holocaust. It looks like a Holocaust picture. I've looked at him for a long time, and they've been treated very badly."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m75og9sn-namzuu9k-7k1xw4zz">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Washington, DC | US President Donald Trump says, "I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow at 12 o'clock. I'd take a very hard stance. I can't tell you what Israel is going to do... It depends what Bibi (Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli PM) is going to do, it depends what&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/WkkM09W0JG">pic.twitter.com/WkkM09W0JG</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1890512597709119936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Trump noted that Hamas had initially refused to release hostages, but surprisingly reversed their decision.&nbsp;
"A young lady came out last week. Her hand was blown off. I mean, literally, her hand was trying to stop a bullet that was headed for her face. She put up her hand. She goes like this and wiped out her fingers and a lot of her hands. Now, I would take a different stance. But it depends, look, it depends on what Bibi (Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu) going to do. It depends on what Israel is going to do. But, now, I understand they've totally changed," he said.&nbsp;
"Hamas has totally changed. They want to release hostages now again. But you have to see this started by them saying we're not going to release the hostages as we said we were. I said, good, you have till 12 o'clock on Saturday, which is tomorrow at 12 o'clock to do it. And we didn't hear anything, then all of a sudden, two days ago, they said, no, we've decided we're going to release the hostages," Trump said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-says-committed-to-freeing-gaza-hostages-according-to-specified-timetable-8718206">Also read: Israel warns Hamas must release three live hostages under Gaza ceasefire agreement</a>
<h2>Hamas says committed to freeing Gaza hostages 'according to specified timetable'</h2>
Palestinian militant group on Thursday (Feb 13) reaffirmed its commitment to releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza under a timeline set out in a ceasefire deal for the territory.
"Hamas confirms continuation in implementing the agreement in accordance with what was signed, including the exchange of prisoners (Israeli hostages) according to the specified timetable," the group said in a statement.&nbsp;
It described the ongoing talks in Cairo, aimed at resolving the stalemate in implementing the ceasefire agreement, as "positive" and productive.
The Palestinian militant group, on Monday (Feb 10), announced that it would postpone the next hostage-prisoner swap, scheduled on Saturday, indefinitely citing a series of violations of the ceasefire deal by Israel.
(With input from agencies)

World news: United States President Donald Trump noted that Hamas had initially refused to release hostages, but surprisingly reversed their decision.

United States President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 14) expressed uncertainty about the hostage release. He stated he wasn't sure about what would happen on Saturday, referring to his deadline for Hamas to release hostages held in Gaza since Oct 7, 2023. This came after he issued an ultimatum earlier in the week, warning that "all hell will break out" if Hamas fails to meet the deadline. The US president reiterated his demand for Hamas to release the hostages. Speaking about the hostages released last week, Trump said that they were treated very badly by the Palestinian militant group and that they had turned weak after being in captivity. When asked about his deadline for the release of hostages, Trump said, "I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow at 12 o'clock. It was up to me. I'd take a very hard stance. I can't tell you what Israel is going to do. But, I watched the last people come out and I looked at it before and after the picture. One guy was a big, strong, healthy guy. Could say he was a little bit overweight? He's not overweight anymore. He looks like he just came out of the Holocaust. It looks like a Holocaust picture. I've looked at him for a long time, and they've been treated very badly." #WATCH | Washington, DC | US President Donald Trump says, "I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow at 12 o'clock. I'd take a very hard stance. I can't tell you what Israel is going to do... It depends what Bibi (Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli PM) is going to do, it depends what… pic.twitter.com/WkkM09W0JG — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2025 Trump noted that Hamas had initially refused to release hostages, but surprisingly reversed their decision. "A young lady came out last week. Her hand was blown off. I mean, literally, her hand was trying to stop a bullet that was headed for her face. She put up her hand. She goes like this and wiped out her fingers and a lot of her hands. Now, I would take a different stance. But it depends, look, it depends on what Bibi (Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu) going to do. It depends on what Israel is going to do. But, now, I understand they've totally changed," he said. "Hamas has totally changed. They want to release hostages now again. But you have to see this started by them saying we're not going to release the hostages as we said we were. I said, good, you have till 12 o'clock on Saturday, which is tomorrow at 12 o'clock to do it. And we didn't hear anything, then all of a sudden, two days ago, they said, no, we've decided we're going to release the hostages," Trump said. Also read: Israel warns Hamas must release three live hostages under Gaza ceasefire agreement Hamas says committed to freeing Gaza hostages 'according to specified timetable' Palestinian militant group on Thursday (Feb 13) reaffirmed its commitment to releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza under a timeline set out in a ceasefire deal for the territory. "Hamas confirms continuation in implementing the agreement in accordance with what was signed, including the exchange of prisoners (Israeli hostages) according to the specified timetable," the group said in a statement. It described the ongoing talks in Cairo, aimed at resolving the stalemate in implementing the ceasefire agreement, as "positive" and productive. The Palestinian militant group, on Monday (Feb 10), announced that it would postpone the next hostage-prisoner swap, scheduled on Saturday, indefinitely citing a series of violations of the ceasefire deal by Israel. (With input from agencies)

'I don't know what's going to happen': Trump expresses uncertainty about hostage release by Hamas

Hamas on Friday (Feb 14) said that it expects indirect negotiations with Israel for the second phase of the ongoing ceasefire to begin "early next week".
An official of the Palestinian militant group said that mediators were continuing discussions on the matter. This comes as following allegations of ceasefire violations, Hamas paused hostage release to wide criticism.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-three-israeli-hostages-set-to-be-released-tomorrow-8721288">Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages set to be released tomorrow</a>
<h2>Second phase soon</h2>
Hamas official Taher al-Nunu, as quoted by AFP, said, "We expect the second phase of the ceasefire negotiations to begin early next week, and mediators are continuing discussions on this matter."
Citing an anonymous source familiar with the talks, AFP reports that "mediators informed Hamas that they hope to start the second phase of negotiations next week in Doha".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-accept-american-and-israeli-threats-hamas-warns-trump-netanyahu-over-gaza-ceasefire-ultimatum-8715064">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t accept American and Israeli threats&rsquo;: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum</a>
<h2>Gaza ceasefire agreement</h2>
The Gaza truce marks a significant development in the 15-month-long conflict that has devastated Gaza, killing over 46,000 people and displacing most of the 2.3 million residents, according to local authorities. &nbsp;
It took effect from Sunday (Jan 19) and in the first phase, in six weeks or 42 days, there was a gradual return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza.
Under the agreement, the initial six-week phase involves a series of hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. Thirty-three Israeli hostages&mdash;including women, children, and elderly men&mdash;were to be freed. In exchange, Israel was to release all Palestinian women and minors under 19 currently held in Israeli prisons.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buffer-zone-physical-barrier-trump-fund-inside-the-arab-nations-alternative-to-trumps-gaza-plan-8721926" aria-label="'Buffer zone, physical barrier, 'Trump Fund': Inside the Arab nations' alternative to Trump's Gaza plan">'Buffer zone, physical barrier, 'Trump Fund': Inside the Arab nations' alternative to Trump's Gaza plan</a>
Earlier, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the press that the hostage release in the first phase will include "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people, as well as civilian ill people and wounded". Hamas, as per Reuters, was to release three hostages every week - first females and hostages under 19 years, followed by men over 50, and the remains of dead hostages would be released last (in the subsequent phases of the truce).
Meanwhile, Israel was to release 30 Palestinian detainees for every civilian hostage and 50 Palestinian detainees for every Israeli female soldier Hamas releases.
Prisoner exchange will also take place in the second and third phases of the truce. However, the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for Israeli hostages is yet to be finalised.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Hamas anticipates the start of indirect negotiations with Israel for the second phase of the ceasefire next week, as mediators continue discussions on the agreement.

Hamas on Friday (Feb 14) said that it expects indirect negotiations with Israel for the second phase of the ongoing ceasefire to begin "early next week". An official of the Palestinian militant group said that mediators were continuing discussions on the matter. This comes as following allegations of ceasefire violations, Hamas paused hostage release to wide criticism. Also read | Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages set to be released tomorrow Second phase soon Hamas official Taher al-Nunu, as quoted by AFP, said, "We expect the second phase of the ceasefire negotiations to begin early next week, and mediators are continuing discussions on this matter." Citing an anonymous source familiar with the talks, AFP reports that "mediators informed Hamas that they hope to start the second phase of negotiations next week in Doha". Also read | ‘Won’t accept American and Israeli threats’: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum Gaza ceasefire agreement The Gaza truce marks a significant development in the 15-month-long conflict that has devastated Gaza, killing over 46,000 people and displacing most of the 2.3 million residents, according to local authorities. It took effect from Sunday (Jan 19) and in the first phase, in six weeks or 42 days, there was a gradual return of displaced civilians to northern Gaza. Under the agreement, the initial six-week phase involves a series of hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. Thirty-three Israeli hostages—including women, children, and elderly men—were to be freed. In exchange, Israel was to release all Palestinian women and minors under 19 currently held in Israeli prisons. Also read | 'Buffer zone, physical barrier, 'Trump Fund': Inside the Arab nations' alternative to Trump's Gaza plan Earlier, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the press that the hostage release in the first phase will include "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people, as well as civilian ill people and wounded". Hamas, as per Reuters, was to release three hostages every week - first females and hostages under 19 years, followed by men over 50, and the remains of dead hostages would be released last (in the subsequent phases of the truce). Meanwhile, Israel was to release 30 Palestinian detainees for every civilian hostage and 50 Palestinian detainees for every Israeli female soldier Hamas releases. Prisoner exchange will also take place in the second and third phases of the truce. However, the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for Israeli hostages is yet to be finalised. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says indirect negotiations for second phase of ceasefire with Israel to begin next week

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 14) arrived at Delhi's Palam airport after concluding his two nation visit to the US and France.
Modi's two-nation tour consisted of high-profile meetings with US President Donald Trump &mdash; their first after the 47th POTUS assumed charge &mdash; and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-dismisses-nearly-half-of-disease-detectives-even-as-bird-flu-concerns-rise-8722503">Trump administration dismisses nearly half of 'disease detectives' even as bird flu concerns&nbsp;rise</a>
<h2>PM Modi in US&nbsp;</h2>
In the US, Modi was welcomed by the usually stoic US President with a hug, as they met at the White House on Thursday (Feb 12). During their bilateral meeting, the two leaders reached important agreements. This includes the US giving India state-of-the-art F-35 Stealth fighters 'starting this year', making New Delhi part of the elite club of countries with stealth jets. Trump and Modi also shook hands on the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the mastermind wanted for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.&nbsp;
Modi's US visit, in his own words, was significant in emphasising that the two nations have "great unity and great friendship."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-modi-bromance-in-focus-as-us-president-gifts-indian-pm-this-sentimental-present-8719422">Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present</a>
During their meeting, Trump also stressed that the ties between the two nations will get better, as Modi told him that he was delighted to see him back at the White House for a second term.
This vital visit was Modi's first to the United States since President Donald Trump's inauguration.&nbsp;
<h2>Modi in France</h2>
In France, the Indian PM co-chaired the AI summit in France. The summit titled 'AI Action Summit' was a high-profile gathering of world leaders and global tech CEOs. Modi also met Emmanuel Macron and the two leaders visited Marseille. They paid a visit to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor project, in which India is a member alongside France, and the control room of CMA-CGM, a global leader in shipping and logistics.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-madhubani-of-bihar-to-crafts-of-rajasthan-indian-pm-narendra-modis-timeless-gifts-for-emmanuel-macron-and-jd-vance-8715971">From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids</a>
He also paid tributes to the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during World Wars I and II at the Mazargues' War Cemetery.&nbsp;Modi and Macron also jointly inaugurated the Indian Consulate in Marseille.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Discover the highlights of PM Modi's historic visits to the US and France, featuring major bilateral agreements with leaders like Presidents Trump and Macron.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 14) arrived at Delhi's Palam airport after concluding his two nation visit to the US and France. Modi's two-nation tour consisted of high-profile meetings with US President Donald Trump — their first after the 47th POTUS assumed charge — and French President Emmanuel Macron. Also read | Trump administration dismisses nearly half of 'disease detectives' even as bird flu concerns rise PM Modi in US In the US, Modi was welcomed by the usually stoic US President with a hug, as they met at the White House on Thursday (Feb 12). During their bilateral meeting, the two leaders reached important agreements. This includes the US giving India state-of-the-art F-35 Stealth fighters 'starting this year', making New Delhi part of the elite club of countries with stealth jets. Trump and Modi also shook hands on the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the mastermind wanted for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Modi's US visit, in his own words, was significant in emphasising that the two nations have "great unity and great friendship." Also read | Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present During their meeting, Trump also stressed that the ties between the two nations will get better, as Modi told him that he was delighted to see him back at the White House for a second term. This vital visit was Modi's first to the United States since President Donald Trump's inauguration. Modi in France In France, the Indian PM co-chaired the AI summit in France. The summit titled 'AI Action Summit' was a high-profile gathering of world leaders and global tech CEOs. Modi also met Emmanuel Macron and the two leaders visited Marseille. They paid a visit to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor project, in which India is a member alongside France, and the control room of CMA-CGM, a global leader in shipping and logistics. Also read | From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids He also paid tributes to the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during World Wars I and II at the Mazargues' War Cemetery. Modi and Macron also jointly inaugurated the Indian Consulate in Marseille. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi back in India after historic visit to US and France featuring major bilateral agreements

The Trump administration on Friday (Feb 14) dismissed nearly half of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS), a storied unit of epidemiologists known as the nation's "disease detectives."&nbsp;
The move, which comes as bird flu fears intensify, has sparked alarm among health experts, who say they're "so angry" by the move.
<h2>Trump firings &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
The mass layoffs are part of broader efforts by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to downsize federal agencies and come as newly confirmed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. vowed a sweeping overhaul of national health institutions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-f-kennedy-jr-sworn-in-as-us-health-and-human-services-chief-8720034">Robert F. Kennedy Jr sworn in as US Health and Human Services chief</a>
<h2>'I'm so angry' &mdash; CDC insiders sound the alarm</h2>
Speaking to AFP, a senior epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said, "I'm so angry".
The senior staff member cautioned, "We're on the verge of potentially another pandemic and we're firing the people who have probably more expertise than anyone else in the country collectively".
The layoffs, first reported by CBS News, reportedly mainly target employees still within their probationary period, a window in which federal workers can be dismissed more easily. In total, nearly 1,300 CDC employees&mdash;roughly 10 per cent of the agency's workforce&mdash;were let go. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-create-nato-in-ukraine-zelensky-on-nato-ambitions-trumps-personal-number-and-more-8722093">&lsquo;We will create NATO in Ukraine&rsquo;: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump&rsquo;s personal number, and more</a>
<h2>Who are 'disease detectives'?</h2>
'Disease detectives' is the name given to epidemiologists of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS).
Founded in 1951, the EIS has been on the frontlines of major outbreaks, from smallpox eradication efforts to the first Ebola cases in Africa and the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Officers, recruited through a rigorous selection process, consist of doctors, nurses, scientists and more. Some of them are stationed at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, others are deployed across the country.
Several CDC chiefs have begun their careers as part of the elite EIS.
The 2024 EIS class was informed on Friday that termination emails would be sent that afternoon. The 2023 class remains under review. There are around 140 officers across both classes.
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Around 30 officers, of both classes, were hired via the US Public Health Service, and are currently unaffected, reports AFP.&nbsp;
"Without those officers we would not have eliminated smallpox from the globe," the CDC epidemiologist said. "We had people fanning across countries, wading through mud and navigating rivers on boats to eliminate smallpox." &nbsp;
This comes as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was formally appointed the Health Secretary on Friday. RFK Jr has long been vocal about his distrust of infectious disease research. He recently suggested pausing such studies for eight years to prioritise chronic conditions instead. Kennedy has also questioned widely accepted medical science, challenging the role of germs in disease transmission and disputing the link between HIV and AIDS.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | The Trump administration's decision to dismiss nearly half of the Epidemic Intelligence Service raises serious concerns among health experts as bird flu fears grow.

The Trump administration on Friday (Feb 14) dismissed nearly half of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS), a storied unit of epidemiologists known as the nation's "disease detectives." The move, which comes as bird flu fears intensify, has sparked alarm among health experts, who say they're "so angry" by the move. Trump firings The mass layoffs are part of broader efforts by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to downsize federal agencies and come as newly confirmed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. vowed a sweeping overhaul of national health institutions. Also read | Robert F. Kennedy Jr sworn in as US Health and Human Services chief 'I'm so angry' — CDC insiders sound the alarm Speaking to AFP, a senior epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said, "I'm so angry". The senior staff member cautioned, "We're on the verge of potentially another pandemic and we're firing the people who have probably more expertise than anyone else in the country collectively". The layoffs, first reported by CBS News, reportedly mainly target employees still within their probationary period, a window in which federal workers can be dismissed more easily. In total, nearly 1,300 CDC employees—roughly 10 per cent of the agency's workforce—were let go. Also read | ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more Who are 'disease detectives'? 'Disease detectives' is the name given to epidemiologists of the elite Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS). Founded in 1951, the EIS has been on the frontlines of major outbreaks, from smallpox eradication efforts to the first Ebola cases in Africa and the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Officers, recruited through a rigorous selection process, consist of doctors, nurses, scientists and more. Some of them are stationed at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, others are deployed across the country. Several CDC chiefs have begun their careers as part of the elite EIS. The 2024 EIS class was informed on Friday that termination emails would be sent that afternoon. The 2023 class remains under review. There are around 140 officers across both classes. Also read | Trump-Modi 'bromance' in focus as US President gifts Indian PM THIS sentimental present Around 30 officers, of both classes, were hired via the US Public Health Service, and are currently unaffected, reports AFP. "Without those officers we would not have eliminated smallpox from the globe," the CDC epidemiologist said. "We had people fanning across countries, wading through mud and navigating rivers on boats to eliminate smallpox." This comes as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was formally appointed the Health Secretary on Friday. RFK Jr has long been vocal about his distrust of infectious disease research. He recently suggested pausing such studies for eight years to prioritise chronic conditions instead. Kennedy has also questioned widely accepted medical science, challenging the role of germs in disease transmission and disputing the link between HIV and AIDS. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump administration dismisses nearly half of 'disease detectives' even as bird flu concerns rise

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has dismissed allegations that he attempted to strike a deal with the Trump administration to have corruption charges against him dropped in return for supporting the president&rsquo;s immigration policies.
Speaking on Fox News alongside Trump&rsquo;s border czar Tom Homan on Friday, Adams described the claims as "silly" and insisted he had committed no crime.
Adams said that Sassoon&nbsp;was accusing him of a serious crime. "It took her three weeks to report ... a criminal action? Come on, this is silly," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-demands-real-security-guarantees-from-us-vice-president-vance-during-talks-in-munich-8722269">&lsquo;We want peace very much, but&hellip;&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;real security guarantees&rsquo; from Vance during talks in Munich</a>
His comments came a day after Manhattan&rsquo;s top federal prosecutor, Danielle Sassoon, stepped down, alleging that the Justice Department had pressured her to abandon the case against Adams.
<h2>What are the charges against Eric Adams?</h2>
Adams was indicted last year over claims that he accepted gifts worth more than $100,000 (&pound;75,000) from Turkish nationals in exchange for political favours. He has denied any wrongdoing.
<h2>Quid pro quo</h2>
In a letter, Sassoon, recently promoted by President Donald Trump, said that Adams' legal team had met with officials at the Justice Department and had "repeatedly urged what amounted to a quid pro quo, indicating that Adams would be in a position to assist with the Department&rsquo;s enforcement priorities only if the indictment were dismissed."
The mayor recently announced his intention to sign an executive order allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents access to Rikers Island, fulfilling a significant request from the Trump administration regarding immigration enforcement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vances-munich-speech-slammed-by-europe-praised-by-russia-8722231">&lsquo;Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia</a>
On Monday, Trump&rsquo;s acting deputy attorney general, Emil Bove, instructed Sassoon and New York prosecutors to withdraw the case, arguing that it was hindering Adams' ability to tackle "illegal immigration and violent crime."
In her resignation letter to Bove on Thursday, Sassoon warned that dismissing the charges against Adams would create a "breathtaking and dangerous precedent."
"Because the law does not support a dismissal, and because I am confident that Adams has committed the crimes with which he is charged, I cannot agree to seek a dismissal driven by improper considerations," she wrote.
Following Sassoon&rsquo;s resignation, five other Justice Department officials from the corruption unit also stepped down.
<h2>Donald Trump and Eric Adams' close ties</h2>
Since Trump&rsquo;s victory in the presidential election, Adams, a Democrat, has developed closer ties with the Republican leader. He travelled to Trump&rsquo;s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida just days before the president took office. Trump has denied any involvement in efforts to have the case against Adams dismissed.
<h2>Growing calls for resignation</h2>
New York Governor Kathy Hochul voiced concern over the allegations, describing them as "extremely serious and concerning" during an interview with MSNBC on Thursday night.
When asked whether she would consider removing Adams from his position, she stated that she was "consulting with other leaders in government at this time."
Calls for Adams to step down grew louder on Friday, as further details about the Justice Department&rsquo;s decision to drop the corruption charges came to light.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Adams was indicted last year over claims that he accepted gifts worth more than $100,000 (£75,000) from Turkish nationals in exchange for political favours. He has denied any wrongdoing.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has dismissed allegations that he attempted to strike a deal with the Trump administration to have corruption charges against him dropped in return for supporting the president’s immigration policies. Speaking on Fox News alongside Trump’s border czar Tom Homan on Friday, Adams described the claims as "silly" and insisted he had committed no crime. Adams said that Sassoon was accusing him of a serious crime. "It took her three weeks to report ... a criminal action? Come on, this is silly," he said. Also read: ‘We want peace very much, but…’: Zelensky demands ‘real security guarantees’ from Vance during talks in Munich His comments came a day after Manhattan’s top federal prosecutor, Danielle Sassoon, stepped down, alleging that the Justice Department had pressured her to abandon the case against Adams. What are the charges against Eric Adams? Adams was indicted last year over claims that he accepted gifts worth more than $100,000 (£75,000) from Turkish nationals in exchange for political favours. He has denied any wrongdoing. Quid pro quo In a letter, Sassoon, recently promoted by President Donald Trump, said that Adams' legal team had met with officials at the Justice Department and had "repeatedly urged what amounted to a quid pro quo, indicating that Adams would be in a position to assist with the Department’s enforcement priorities only if the indictment were dismissed." The mayor recently announced his intention to sign an executive order allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents access to Rikers Island, fulfilling a significant request from the Trump administration regarding immigration enforcement. Also read: ‘Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference’: JD Vance’s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia On Monday, Trump’s acting deputy attorney general, Emil Bove, instructed Sassoon and New York prosecutors to withdraw the case, arguing that it was hindering Adams' ability to tackle "illegal immigration and violent crime." In her resignation letter to Bove on Thursday, Sassoon warned that dismissing the charges against Adams would create a "breathtaking and dangerous precedent." "Because the law does not support a dismissal, and because I am confident that Adams has committed the crimes with which he is charged, I cannot agree to seek a dismissal driven by improper considerations," she wrote. Following Sassoon’s resignation, five other Justice Department officials from the corruption unit also stepped down. Donald Trump and Eric Adams' close ties Since Trump’s victory in the presidential election, Adams, a Democrat, has developed closer ties with the Republican leader. He travelled to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida just days before the president took office. Trump has denied any involvement in efforts to have the case against Adams dismissed. Growing calls for resignation New York Governor Kathy Hochul voiced concern over the allegations, describing them as "extremely serious and concerning" during an interview with MSNBC on Thursday night. When asked whether she would consider removing Adams from his position, she stated that she was "consulting with other leaders in government at this time." Calls for Adams to step down grew louder on Friday, as further details about the Justice Department’s decision to drop the corruption charges came to light. (With inputs from agencies)

NYC Mayor Eric Adams denies 'quid pro quo' with Trump administration to drop criminal case

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance met on Friday (Feb 14) on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Following the meeting, JD Vance stressed that the United States was committed to ensuring "durable peace" in Ukraine.
Speaking after the talks, he said, "We want the war to come to a close, we want the killing to stop, but we want to achieve a durable, lasting peace, not the kind of peace that's going to have Eastern Europe in conflict just a couple years down the road."
"It's important for us to get together and start to have the conversations that are going to be necessary to bring this thing to a close," the vice president said.
"That's all I'm going to say for now, because I want to preserve the optionality here for the negotiators and our respective teams to bring this thing to a responsible close," he said.
<h2>More from Munich Security Conference:</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vances-munich-speech-slammed-by-europe-praised-by-russia-8722231">&lsquo;Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-create-nato-in-ukraine-zelensky-on-nato-ambitions-trumps-personal-number-and-more-8722093">&lsquo;We will create NATO in Ukraine&rsquo;: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump&rsquo;s personal number, and more</a>
President Zelensky described the discussions with the US Vice President as "good" and showed confidence that their dialogue would continue in the future as efforts to resolve the conflict progressed. "We had a good conversation today. Our first meeting, not last, I'm sure," he said after the discussions in Munich.
During the meeting, Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine was seeking "real security guarantees" before considering any negotiations to end the war with Russia. He thanked the United States for the support and added, "We need to speak more, to work more and to prepare the plan [for] how to stop [Vladimir] Putin and finish the work &hellip; We want peace very much, but we need real security guarantees."
Shortly before the meeting, Zelensky during a town hall with US senators said that he would only be prepared to meet with Putin after Ukraine had agreed on a common plan with US President Donald Trump and European leaders.
"I will meet with Russians - with only one Russian guy, with Putin - only after we will have common plan with Trump, Europe &hellip; and we will sit with Putin and stop the war. Only in this case I&rsquo;m ready to meet," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Following his meeting with Zelensky, JD Vance stressed that the United States was committed to ensuring "durable peace" in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance met on Friday (Feb 14) on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Following the meeting, JD Vance stressed that the United States was committed to ensuring "durable peace" in Ukraine. Speaking after the talks, he said, "We want the war to come to a close, we want the killing to stop, but we want to achieve a durable, lasting peace, not the kind of peace that's going to have Eastern Europe in conflict just a couple years down the road." "It's important for us to get together and start to have the conversations that are going to be necessary to bring this thing to a close," the vice president said. "That's all I'm going to say for now, because I want to preserve the optionality here for the negotiators and our respective teams to bring this thing to a responsible close," he said. More from Munich Security Conference: ‘Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference’: JD Vance’s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more President Zelensky described the discussions with the US Vice President as "good" and showed confidence that their dialogue would continue in the future as efforts to resolve the conflict progressed. "We had a good conversation today. Our first meeting, not last, I'm sure," he said after the discussions in Munich. During the meeting, Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine was seeking "real security guarantees" before considering any negotiations to end the war with Russia. He thanked the United States for the support and added, "We need to speak more, to work more and to prepare the plan [for] how to stop [Vladimir] Putin and finish the work … We want peace very much, but we need real security guarantees." Shortly before the meeting, Zelensky during a town hall with US senators said that he would only be prepared to meet with Putin after Ukraine had agreed on a common plan with US President Donald Trump and European leaders. "I will meet with Russians - with only one Russian guy, with Putin - only after we will have common plan with Trump, Europe … and we will sit with Putin and stop the war. Only in this case I’m ready to meet," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We want peace very much, but…’: Zelensky demands ‘real security guarantees’ from Vance during talks in Munich

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius strongly criticised US Vice President JD Vance following his speech at the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 14). 
In his speech, Vance accused European governments of disregarding public concerns about immigration and stifling free speech, sparking backlash from European officials.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-slams-free-speech-restrictions-in-europe-in-munich-speech-8721757" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'There's nothing America can do for you': JD Vance slams free speech restrictions in Europe in Munich speech</a>
<h2>'Not acceptable'</h2>
The EU&rsquo;s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, reacting to US vice president JD Vance&rsquo;s speech, said it felt like Washington was &ldquo;trying to pick a fight&rdquo; with Europe.
Kallas told reporters, "Listening to that speech, they try to pick a fight with us and we don&rsquo;t want to pick a fight with our friends."
Speaking from the main stage at the conference on Friday, Pistorius condemned Vance&rsquo;s speech. &ldquo;Democracy was called into question by the US Vice President for&nbsp;the whole of Europe earlier,&rdquo; he said.
Vance's comparison of certain European conditions to those in authoritarian states was particularly unacceptable, according to Pistorius. &ldquo;He speaks of the annihilation of democracy. And if I have understood him correctly, he is comparing conditions in parts of Europe with those in authoritarian regions... that is not acceptable,&rdquo; he was quoted as saying by AFP.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-slams-free-speech-restrictions-in-europe-in-munich-speech-8721757" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'There's nothing America can do for you': JD Vance slams free speech restrictions in Europe in Munich speech</a>
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard also responded to Vance&rsquo;s criticism, which was seen as a reference to the conviction of Salman Majek in Sweden. Majek had taken part in multiple Qur&rsquo;an burnings in Stockholm and was found guilty of incitement against an ethnic group.
&ldquo;As a Swedish politician, I do not review [decisions by] independent courts, and I think politicians in other countries should also refrain from doing so,&rdquo; Stenergard stated.
Former Swedish Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Carl Bildt also weighed in, offering a harsh assessment of Vance&rsquo;s speech. &ldquo;The #MSC2025 speech by [US] VP Vance was significantly worse than expected. At best it was totally irrelevant to European or global security concerns. At worst it was blatant interference in the [German] election campaign in favour of far-right AfD,&rdquo; Bildt wrote.
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Vance&rsquo;s speech received a much warmer reception in Russia. A correspondent from Rossiya 1, one of the country's most-watched television channels, praised his address. &ldquo;It was very nice to hear Vance&rsquo;s very strong speech,&rdquo; the correspondent said.
Another Journalist Asya Yemelyanova also reacted positively, describing Vance&rsquo;s speech as &ldquo;a public caning.&rdquo; She added, &ldquo;I can't call it anything else. It was also nice to watch the faces of those listening to him,&rdquo; 
<h2>What did JD Vance say in his Munich address?</h2>
In his address, Vance urged Europe to promote freedom and tackle what he described as &ldquo;the threat that I worry most, the threat from within.&rdquo; He warned against what he saw as a retreat from fundamental values due to free speech restrictions, online content moderation, and political barriers against radical parties.
Vance also accused European leaders of being fearful of their own voters, particularly on immigration. He argued that such an approach could weaken democracy by discouraging public participation in political processes.
He dismissed concerns about Elon Musk&rsquo;s alleged interference in European elections, saying, &ldquo;If American democracy can survive 10 years of Greta Thunberg&rsquo;s scolding, you guys can survive a few months of Elon Musk.&rdquo;
Additionally, he called for an end to political &ldquo;firewalls,&rdquo; referring specifically to Germany&rsquo;s strategy of excluding far-right parties such as the Alternative f&uuml;r Deutschland (AfD). His comments came just nine days before Germany&rsquo;s federal election next Sunday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In his speech, Vance accused European governments of disregarding public concerns about immigration and stifling free speech, sparking backlash from European officials.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius strongly criticised US Vice President JD Vance following his speech at the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 14). In his speech, Vance accused European governments of disregarding public concerns about immigration and stifling free speech, sparking backlash from European officials. Also read: 'There's nothing America can do for you': JD Vance slams free speech restrictions in Europe in Munich speech 'Not acceptable' The EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, reacting to US vice president JD Vance’s speech, said it felt like Washington was “trying to pick a fight” with Europe. Kallas told reporters, "Listening to that speech, they try to pick a fight with us and we don’t want to pick a fight with our friends." Speaking from the main stage at the conference on Friday, Pistorius condemned Vance’s speech. “Democracy was called into question by the US Vice President for the whole of Europe earlier,” he said. Vance's comparison of certain European conditions to those in authoritarian states was particularly unacceptable, according to Pistorius. “He speaks of the annihilation of democracy. And if I have understood him correctly, he is comparing conditions in parts of Europe with those in authoritarian regions... that is not acceptable,” he was quoted as saying by AFP. Also read: 'There's nothing America can do for you': JD Vance slams free speech restrictions in Europe in Munich speech Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard also responded to Vance’s criticism, which was seen as a reference to the conviction of Salman Majek in Sweden. Majek had taken part in multiple Qur’an burnings in Stockholm and was found guilty of incitement against an ethnic group. “As a Swedish politician, I do not review [decisions by] independent courts, and I think politicians in other countries should also refrain from doing so,” Stenergard stated. Former Swedish Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Carl Bildt also weighed in, offering a harsh assessment of Vance’s speech. “The #MSC2025 speech by [US] VP Vance was significantly worse than expected. At best it was totally irrelevant to European or global security concerns. At worst it was blatant interference in the [German] election campaign in favour of far-right AfD,” Bildt wrote. Also read: ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more Vance’s speech received a much warmer reception in Russia. A correspondent from Rossiya 1, one of the country's most-watched television channels, praised his address. “It was very nice to hear Vance’s very strong speech,” the correspondent said. Another Journalist Asya Yemelyanova also reacted positively, describing Vance’s speech as “a public caning.” She added, “I can't call it anything else. It was also nice to watch the faces of those listening to him,” What did JD Vance say in his Munich address? In his address, Vance urged Europe to promote freedom and tackle what he described as “the threat that I worry most, the threat from within.” He warned against what he saw as a retreat from fundamental values due to free speech restrictions, online content moderation, and political barriers against radical parties. Vance also accused European leaders of being fearful of their own voters, particularly on immigration. He argued that such an approach could weaken democracy by discouraging public participation in political processes. He dismissed concerns about Elon Musk’s alleged interference in European elections, saying, “If American democracy can survive 10 years of Greta Thunberg’s scolding, you guys can survive a few months of Elon Musk.” Additionally, he called for an end to political “firewalls,” referring specifically to Germany’s strategy of excluding far-right parties such as the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). His comments came just nine days before Germany’s federal election next Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Unacceptable, irrelevant, election interference’: JD Vance’s Munich speech slammed by Europe, praised by Russia

<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">The 61st Munich Security Conference opened with a deluge of high-stakes discussions focused on the ongoing&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia conflict, with global leaders offering divergent visions for peace and security in Europe.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">The conference commenced at the Bayerischer Hof with&nbsp;German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier setting the tone, underlining the resilience of democracy amidst global challenges. He was joined by Bavarian State Premier Markus S&ouml;der, highlighting the regional significance of these international dialogues.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-create-nato-in-ukraine-zelensky-on-nato-ambitions-trumps-personal-number-and-more-8722093">&lsquo;We will create NATO in Ukraine&rsquo;: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump&rsquo;s personal number, and more</a></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the EU's role on the global stage, advocating for a stronger, more autonomous European defence strategy. Her remarks underscored the necessity for the EU to assert itself in international affairs, particularly in light of the Ukraine crisis.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">US Vice President JD Vance, in his address on "US in the world," criticised European leaders for what he perceived as a fear of their own electorate and a failure to uphold democratic principles. Vance's critique came alongside his comments on Europe needing to take a more significant role in its security, especially with the shifting US policy landscape under the&nbsp;Trump administration.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">The conference also featured Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who spoke on "China in the world," advocating for peace through dialogue and mutual respect, positioning China as a proponent of a multipolar world order.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"> Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-create-nato-in-ukraine-zelensky-on-nato-ambitions-trumps-personal-number-and-more-8722093">&lsquo;We will create NATO in Ukraine&rsquo;: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump&rsquo;s personal number, and more</a></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">A key moment was the panel on strengthening the United Nations, where leaders from Congo, Ghana, and EU officials, alongside the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, discussed the need for UN reform amidst global fragmentation.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">Parallel to these discussions, the Ukraine-Russia conflict dominated the agenda. French President Emmanuel Macron warned against any peace deal that would amount to "capitulation" for Ukraine, stressing that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should negotiate on behalf of his country. This comes amid Donald Trump's recent statements suggesting peace talks, which have raised concerns about Ukraine's inclusion in these negotiations.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">Zelenskyy, present at the conference, reiterated his firm stance against any deal that does not consider Ukraine's sovereignty, meeting with US officials, including Vice President Vance, to discuss ongoing support and the future of Ukrainian defence.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">The conference also reacted to recent Russian drone strikes in Moldova and Romania, highlighting the escalating tensions and the potential for broader conflict in the region. This incident prompted both nations to summon Russian ambassadors, signalling a sharp rebuke to Moscow's actions.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">Throughout the day, the theme of European unity and support for Ukraine was palpable, with leaders expressing a commitment to back Kyiv, even if US policy under Trump might waver. The discussions were not just about immediate peace but also about setting a framework for long-term security and stability in Europe.</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw"></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-demands-real-security-guarantees-from-us-vice-president-vance-during-talks-in-munich-8722269">&lsquo;We want peace very much, but&hellip;&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;real security guarantees&rsquo; from Vance during talks in Munich</a></div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">
<h2>India's Stand</h2>
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed confidence in India's democratic progress, emphasizing that the system has effectively delivered. Speaking about India's electoral process, he highlighted recent elections in Delhi and the 2024 parliamentary polls.
Participating in a panel discussion titled "Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience" at the Munich Security Conference on Friday, alongside Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr St&oslash;re, US&nbsp;Senator Elissa Slotkin, and Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, Jaishankar countered the notion that democracy is in decline globally, citing India's example.
When asked about his perspective on Western democracy, Jaishankar remarked, "Before I answer that, I seem to be the optimist in what is otherwise a largely pessimistic panel, if not room. Let me begin by raising my finger&mdash;don&rsquo;t take it the wrong way, it's the index finger. The mark on my nail signifies that I recently voted. My state just held an election, and last year, we had a national election. In India, about two-thirds of eligible voters participate. In our national elections, with an electorate of approximately 900 million, around 700 million people voted. We count all the votes in a single day."
</div>
<div dir="ltr" class="css-146c3p1 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-37j5jr r-a023e6 r-16dba41 r-1adg3ll r-1kt6imw">As the Munich Security Conference continues, the world watches closely, hoping for pathways towards peace that do not undermine the sovereignty and democratic aspirations of Ukraine. The conference's blend of critique, caution, and commitment reflects the complex web of international relations in our time.</div>

US Vice President JD Vance, in his address on "US in the world," criticised European leaders for what he perceived as a fear of their own electorate and a failure to uphold democratic principles.

The 61st Munich Security Conference opened with a deluge of high-stakes discussions focused on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, with global leaders offering divergent visions for peace and security in Europe. The conference commenced at the Bayerischer Hof with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier setting the tone, underlining the resilience of democracy amidst global challenges. He was joined by Bavarian State Premier Markus Söder, highlighting the regional significance of these international dialogues. Also read: ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the EU's role on the global stage, advocating for a stronger, more autonomous European defence strategy. Her remarks underscored the necessity for the EU to assert itself in international affairs, particularly in light of the Ukraine crisis. US Vice President JD Vance, in his address on "US in the world," criticised European leaders for what he perceived as a fear of their own electorate and a failure to uphold democratic principles. Vance's critique came alongside his comments on Europe needing to take a more significant role in its security, especially with the shifting US policy landscape under the Trump administration. The conference also featured Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who spoke on "China in the world," advocating for peace through dialogue and mutual respect, positioning China as a proponent of a multipolar world order. Also read: ‘We will create NATO in Ukraine’: Zelensky on NATO ambitions, Trump’s personal number, and more A key moment was the panel on strengthening the United Nations, where leaders from Congo, Ghana, and EU officials, alongside the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, discussed the need for UN reform amidst global fragmentation. Parallel to these discussions, the Ukraine-Russia conflict dominated the agenda. French President Emmanuel Macron warned against any peace deal that would amount to "capitulation" for Ukraine, stressing that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should negotiate on behalf of his country. This comes amid Donald Trump's recent statements suggesting peace talks, which have raised concerns about Ukraine's inclusion in these negotiations. Zelenskyy, present at the conference, reiterated his firm stance against any deal that does not consider Ukraine's sovereignty, meeting with US officials, including Vice President Vance, to discuss ongoing support and the future of Ukrainian defence. The conference also reacted to recent Russian drone strikes in Moldova and Romania, highlighting the escalating tensions and the potential for broader conflict in the region. This incident prompted both nations to summon Russian ambassadors, signalling a sharp rebuke to Moscow's actions. Throughout the day, the theme of European unity and support for Ukraine was palpable, with leaders expressing a commitment to back Kyiv, even if US policy under Trump might waver. The discussions were not just about immediate peace but also about setting a framework for long-term security and stability in Europe. Also read: ‘We want peace very much, but…’: Zelensky demands ‘real security guarantees’ from Vance during talks in Munich India's Stand Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed confidence in India's democratic progress, emphasizing that the system has effectively delivered. Speaking about India's electoral process, he highlighted recent elections in Delhi and the 2024 parliamentary polls. Participating in a panel discussion titled "Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience" at the Munich Security Conference on Friday, alongside Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, US Senator Elissa Slotkin, and Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, Jaishankar countered the notion that democracy is in decline globally, citing India's example. When asked about his perspective on Western democracy, Jaishankar remarked, "Before I answer that, I seem to be the optimist in what is otherwise a largely pessimistic panel, if not room. Let me begin by raising my finger—don’t take it the wrong way, it's the index finger. The mark on my nail signifies that I recently voted. My state just held an election, and last year, we had a national election. In India, about two-thirds of eligible voters participate. In our national elections, with an electorate of approximately 900 million, around 700 million people voted. We count all the votes in a single day." As the Munich Security Conference continues, the world watches closely, hoping for pathways towards peace that do not undermine the sovereignty and democratic aspirations of Ukraine. The conference's blend of critique, caution, and commitment reflects the complex web of international relations in our time.

Munich Security Conference 2025: Leaders debate Ukraine's fate amid rising tensions

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