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South Africa on Saturday condemned a "campaign of misinformation" after US President Donald Trump issued an order freezing aid to the country over a law he alleges allows land to be seized from white farmers.
"We are concerned by what seems to be a campaign of misinformation and propaganda aimed at misrepresenting our great nation," the government said.
Land ownership is a contentious issue in South Africa, with most farmland still owned by white people three decades after the end of apartheid. It is a legacy of a policy of expropriating land from the black population that endured during apartheid and the colonial period before it.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-forms-new-government-pm-nawaf-salam-vows-reform-and-salvation-8703452">Lebanon forms new government, PM Nawaf Salam vows &lsquo;reform and salvation&rsquo;</a>
"It is disappointing to observe that such narratives seem to have found favour among decision-makers in the United States of America," Pretoria said.
Trump claimed on Friday the law would "enable the government of South Africa to seize ethnic minority Afrikaners' agricultural property without compensation".
The allegation came in an executive order, which also noted foreign policy clashes between the United States and South Africa over the war in Gaza, particularly Pretoria's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
South Africa's foreign ministry said it "has taken note" of Trump's executive order but added: "It is of great concern that the foundational premise of this order lacks factual accuracy and fails to recognize South Africa's profound and painful history of colonialism and apartheid."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-to-reinstate-doge-staffer-ousted-over-racist-posts-after-trump-vance-back-him-8703410">&lsquo;To err is human&rsquo;: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him</a>
"It is ironic that the executive order makes provision for refugee status in the US for a group in South Africa that remains amongst the most economically privileged, while vulnerable people in the US from other parts of the world are being deported and denied asylum despite real hardship."
The South African president's office has denied any intention of &ldquo;seizing lands".
Trump's executive order pledges to assist the &ldquo;ethnic minority Afrikaners" -- descendants of the first European settlers, including offering refugee status to what it said were "racially disfavoured landowners".
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said Saturday that "persecuted South African farmers and other innocent victims being targeted solely based on their race who choose to resettle in America will be welcome."
"The United States will also defend the rights and interests of those remaining descendants of settlers threatened with expropriation without compensation and other intolerable abuses," she said on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-preparing-for-war-not-peace-or-negotiations-zelensky-claims-8703418">'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations': Zelensky claims</a>
<h2>'Afrikaners or Amerikaners?'</h2>
President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a national address on Thursday his country would not be "intimidated" by the United States.
"We are witnessing the rise of nationalism, protectionism, the pursuit of narrow interests and the decline of common cause," Ramaphosa said.
Trump made a blanket claim that the South African land law would allow the government to seize Afrikaners' property "without compensation".
The law, which came into force in January, clarifies the legal framework for expropriations. Most legal experts stress it does not add new content.
It allows the government, as a matter of public interest, to decide on expropriations without compensation -- but only in certain exceptional circumstances where it would be "just and equitable".
For several days, South Africans of all racial origins have taken to social media to mock the US stance.
"Should we now call them Amerikaners?" quipped one person on Saturday.
"Should we expect wine estates or safari reserves to be evacuated?" joked another. Most estates and private reserves in the country belong to white families.
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On Saturday, Afriforum, a small organisation dedicated to "protecting and promoting the Afrikaner identity", expressed its "great appreciation" to Trump, while stressing that white South Africans' place was in their home country.
White South Africans make up around seven percent of the population, according to date from 2022. Afrikaners make up a proportion of that group.
Trump's ally Elon Musk, who was born in South Africa under apartheid, has accused Ramaphosa's government of having "openly racist ownership laws".
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&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World: South Africa's foreign ministry said it "has taken note" of Trump's executive order but added: "It is of great concern that the foundational premise of this order lacks factual accuracy."

South Africa on Saturday condemned a "campaign of misinformation" after US President Donald Trump issued an order freezing aid to the country over a law he alleges allows land to be seized from white farmers. "We are concerned by what seems to be a campaign of misinformation and propaganda aimed at misrepresenting our great nation," the government said. Land ownership is a contentious issue in South Africa, with most farmland still owned by white people three decades after the end of apartheid. It is a legacy of a policy of expropriating land from the black population that endured during apartheid and the colonial period before it. Also read: Lebanon forms new government, PM Nawaf Salam vows ‘reform and salvation’ "It is disappointing to observe that such narratives seem to have found favour among decision-makers in the United States of America," Pretoria said. Trump claimed on Friday the law would "enable the government of South Africa to seize ethnic minority Afrikaners' agricultural property without compensation". The allegation came in an executive order, which also noted foreign policy clashes between the United States and South Africa over the war in Gaza, particularly Pretoria's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. South Africa's foreign ministry said it "has taken note" of Trump's executive order but added: "It is of great concern that the foundational premise of this order lacks factual accuracy and fails to recognize South Africa's profound and painful history of colonialism and apartheid." Also read: ‘To err is human’: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him "It is ironic that the executive order makes provision for refugee status in the US for a group in South Africa that remains amongst the most economically privileged, while vulnerable people in the US from other parts of the world are being deported and denied asylum despite real hardship." The South African president's office has denied any intention of “seizing lands". Trump's executive order pledges to assist the “ethnic minority Afrikaners" -- descendants of the first European settlers, including offering refugee status to what it said were "racially disfavoured landowners". State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said Saturday that "persecuted South African farmers and other innocent victims being targeted solely based on their race who choose to resettle in America will be welcome." "The United States will also defend the rights and interests of those remaining descendants of settlers threatened with expropriation without compensation and other intolerable abuses," she said on X. Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations': Zelensky claims 'Afrikaners or Amerikaners?' President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a national address on Thursday his country would not be "intimidated" by the United States. "We are witnessing the rise of nationalism, protectionism, the pursuit of narrow interests and the decline of common cause," Ramaphosa said. Trump made a blanket claim that the South African land law would allow the government to seize Afrikaners' property "without compensation". The law, which came into force in January, clarifies the legal framework for expropriations. Most legal experts stress it does not add new content. It allows the government, as a matter of public interest, to decide on expropriations without compensation -- but only in certain exceptional circumstances where it would be "just and equitable". For several days, South Africans of all racial origins have taken to social media to mock the US stance. "Should we now call them Amerikaners?" quipped one person on Saturday. "Should we expect wine estates or safari reserves to be evacuated?" joked another. Most estates and private reserves in the country belong to white families. Also read: Mark Wahlberg's Flight Risk may be heading for digital release On Saturday, Afriforum, a small organisation dedicated to "protecting and promoting the Afrikaner identity", expressed its "great appreciation" to Trump, while stressing that white South Africans' place was in their home country. White South Africans make up around seven percent of the population, according to date from 2022. Afrikaners make up a proportion of that group. Trump's ally Elon Musk, who was born in South Africa under apartheid, has accused Ramaphosa's government of having "openly racist ownership laws". 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.

South Africa slams Trump’s aid freeze over land reform ‘misinformation’

Thousands of people who are against Iran&rsquo;s government gathered in Paris on Saturday. They were joined by Ukrainians, all calling for Iran&rsquo;s leaders to be removed. Many hoped that US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump&rsquo;s</a> 'maximum pressure' policy could help bring change.
The protest was organised by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), an opposition group based in Paris that is banned in Iran. The protest happened while two members of the group faced execution, and six others were sentenced to death in November.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-to-reinstate-doge-staffer-ousted-over-racist-posts-after-trump-vance-back-him-8703410" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;To err is human&rsquo;: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him</a>
"We say your end has come. With or without talks, with or without nuclear weapons, protests and removal will happen," said NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi in a speech.
Many protesters came from different parts of Europe, waving Iranian flags and shouting against Iran&rsquo;s government. Some held images mocking Iran&rsquo;s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
Among the protesters were hundreds of Ukrainians, who accused Iran of helping Russian President Vladimir Putin in the war against Ukraine.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-preparing-for-war-not-peace-or-negotiations-zelensky-claims-8703418">'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations': Zelensky claims</a>
The NCRI, also called Mujahideen-e-Khalq in Persian, was once considered a terrorist group by the US and the European Union. However, it was removed from their lists in 2012.
Mohammad Sabetraftar, a 63-year-old Iranian living in exile for 40 years and now running a taxi business in the UK, defended the NCRI. He said the group was the best hope for democracy in Iran.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-preparing-for-war-not-peace-or-negotiations-zelensky-claims-8703418">'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations': Zelensky claims</a>
"We want Trump or any Western politician to stop supporting this government. We don&rsquo;t need money or weapons, we trust the people. No ties with the regime, no links, and put more pressure on this government," he told Reuters.
Iran&rsquo;s government has often asked for action against the NCRI in Paris, Riyadh, and Washington. Iranian state media frequently criticises the group.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "We want Trump or any Western politician to stop supporting this government. We don’t need money or weapons, we trust the people. No ties with the regime, no links, and put more pressure on this government."

Thousands of people who are against Iran’s government gathered in Paris on Saturday. They were joined by Ukrainians, all calling for Iran’s leaders to be removed. Many hoped that US President Donald Trump’s 'maximum pressure' policy could help bring change. The protest was organised by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), an opposition group based in Paris that is banned in Iran. The protest happened while two members of the group faced execution, and six others were sentenced to death in November. Also read: ‘To err is human’: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him "We say your end has come. With or without talks, with or without nuclear weapons, protests and removal will happen," said NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi in a speech. Many protesters came from different parts of Europe, waving Iranian flags and shouting against Iran’s government. Some held images mocking Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Among the protesters were hundreds of Ukrainians, who accused Iran of helping Russian President Vladimir Putin in the war against Ukraine. Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations': Zelensky claims The NCRI, also called Mujahideen-e-Khalq in Persian, was once considered a terrorist group by the US and the European Union. However, it was removed from their lists in 2012. Mohammad Sabetraftar, a 63-year-old Iranian living in exile for 40 years and now running a taxi business in the UK, defended the NCRI. He said the group was the best hope for democracy in Iran. Also read: 'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations': Zelensky claims "We want Trump or any Western politician to stop supporting this government. We don’t need money or weapons, we trust the people. No ties with the regime, no links, and put more pressure on this government," he told Reuters. Iran’s government has often asked for action against the NCRI in Paris, Riyadh, and Washington. Iranian state media frequently criticises the group. (With inputs from agencies)

'Demise has arrived': Iranian dissidents, empowered by Trump's 'maximum pressure' policy, demand regime’s fall

Lebanon's premier named a new government Saturday, the presidency announced, with the weakening of long-dominant Hezbollah following a war with Israel bringing to a close more than two years of caretaker authorities.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said he hoped to head a "government of reform and salvation", pledging to rebuild trust with the international community after years of economic collapse blamed on corruption and mismanagement.
His new government faces the daunting task of implementing reforms needed to unlock funding from international donors after years of crisis, overseeing a fragile Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire and rebuilding the country.
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"I hope this will be a government of reform and salvation," Salam said in a televised statement moments after his cabinet was announced.
His government will strive to "restore trust between citizens and the state, between Lebanon and its Arab surrounding, and between Lebanon and the international community," he said.
President Joseph Aoun signed a decree "to form a government of 24 ministers", the presidency said in a post on X.
Before the new government can exercise its powers, it needs to draft a ministerial statement that must be submitted to a confidence vote in parliament within 30 days.
Lebanon's 128-seat parliament is mostly dominated by traditional, sectarian-based parties.
The government will hold its first session on Tuesday morning, the presidency said in a post on X.
<h2>'Reformist agenda'</h2>
The new government includes five women, among them Tamara Elzein, who has been secretary-general of Lebanon's National Council for Scientific Research, and Haneen Sayed, who has worked as a specialist for the World Bank.
It also includes well-known figures like Ghassan Salame, a former United Nations envoy to Libya.
Former lawmaker Yassine Jaber, who has close ties to Hezbollah ally the Amal movement, was named finance minister -- a strategic portfolio long dominated by the two parties.
His naming had been leaked and criticised by some as a boon for powerful parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who heads Amal.
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Long the dominant force in Lebanese politics, Hezbollah suffered staggering losses in a war with Israel that saw its leader Hassan Nasrallah killed in a massive air strike in September.
Hezbollah suffered another seismic blow with the ouster on December 8 of Bashar al-Assad in Syria, which it had long used as its weapons lifeline from Iran.
After more than two years of political stalemate, the weakening of Hezbollah allowed former army chief Aoun, widely believed to be Washington's preferred candidate, to be elected president and Salam approved as his premier.
The US embassy in Beirut welcomed the government formation, adding that "the Lebanese people deserve a government that will rebuild Lebanese state institutions, fight corruption, and implement needed reforms".
A day earlier, US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus warned against any Hezbollah presence in Lebanon's new government &nbsp;after meeting Aoun in Beirut, saying the group was "defeated" in its war with Israel.
European Union ambassador to Lebanon Sandra De Waele welcomed Salam's "commitment that it (the government) will have a reformist agenda," which she said is "necessary for Lebanon's future".
<h2>'Brighter chapter'</h2>
The international community has long demanded reforms to unlock financial aid after Lebanon's economic meltdown began in 2019.
Political deadlock had left Lebanon without a president for more than two years until Aoun's election.
Salam formed a government in less than a month in a country where such endeavours often take months of political horse trading.
The office of UN special coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert said "today's government formation heralds a new and brighter chapter for Lebanon".
Salam said he named his ministers after consulting with leaders in a country where power has long been shared according to sectarian quotas.
The new government will have to review agreements including with the International Monetary Fund and prepare for parliamentary elections scheduled for next year.
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: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said he hoped to head a "government of reform and salvation", pledging to rebuild trust with the international community after years of economic collapse blamed on corruption and mismanagement.

Lebanon's premier named a new government Saturday, the presidency announced, with the weakening of long-dominant Hezbollah following a war with Israel bringing to a close more than two years of caretaker authorities. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said he hoped to head a "government of reform and salvation", pledging to rebuild trust with the international community after years of economic collapse blamed on corruption and mismanagement. His new government faces the daunting task of implementing reforms needed to unlock funding from international donors after years of crisis, overseeing a fragile Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire and rebuilding the country. Also read: Woman arrested for tearing down US flag, replacing it with Mexican flag at California park "I hope this will be a government of reform and salvation," Salam said in a televised statement moments after his cabinet was announced. His government will strive to "restore trust between citizens and the state, between Lebanon and its Arab surrounding, and between Lebanon and the international community," he said. President Joseph Aoun signed a decree "to form a government of 24 ministers", the presidency said in a post on X. Before the new government can exercise its powers, it needs to draft a ministerial statement that must be submitted to a confidence vote in parliament within 30 days. Lebanon's 128-seat parliament is mostly dominated by traditional, sectarian-based parties. The government will hold its first session on Tuesday morning, the presidency said in a post on X. 'Reformist agenda' The new government includes five women, among them Tamara Elzein, who has been secretary-general of Lebanon's National Council for Scientific Research, and Haneen Sayed, who has worked as a specialist for the World Bank. It also includes well-known figures like Ghassan Salame, a former United Nations envoy to Libya. Former lawmaker Yassine Jaber, who has close ties to Hezbollah ally the Amal movement, was named finance minister -- a strategic portfolio long dominated by the two parties. His naming had been leaked and criticised by some as a boon for powerful parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who heads Amal. Also read: Indian man arrested by US immigration authorities over sexual assault charges Long the dominant force in Lebanese politics, Hezbollah suffered staggering losses in a war with Israel that saw its leader Hassan Nasrallah killed in a massive air strike in September. Hezbollah suffered another seismic blow with the ouster on December 8 of Bashar al-Assad in Syria, which it had long used as its weapons lifeline from Iran. After more than two years of political stalemate, the weakening of Hezbollah allowed former army chief Aoun, widely believed to be Washington's preferred candidate, to be elected president and Salam approved as his premier. The US embassy in Beirut welcomed the government formation, adding that "the Lebanese people deserve a government that will rebuild Lebanese state institutions, fight corruption, and implement needed reforms". A day earlier, US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus warned against any Hezbollah presence in Lebanon's new government after meeting Aoun in Beirut, saying the group was "defeated" in its war with Israel. European Union ambassador to Lebanon Sandra De Waele welcomed Salam's "commitment that it (the government) will have a reformist agenda," which she said is "necessary for Lebanon's future". 'Brighter chapter' The international community has long demanded reforms to unlock financial aid after Lebanon's economic meltdown began in 2019. Political deadlock had left Lebanon without a president for more than two years until Aoun's election. Salam formed a government in less than a month in a country where such endeavours often take months of political horse trading. The office of UN special coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert said "today's government formation heralds a new and brighter chapter for Lebanon". Salam said he named his ministers after consulting with leaders in a country where power has long been shared according to sectarian quotas. The new government will have to review agreements including with the International Monetary Fund and prepare for parliamentary elections scheduled for next year. 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.

Lebanon forms new government, PM Nawaf Salam vows ‘reform and salvation’

An Indian national is among four persons arrested by US immigration authorities over charges related to sexual assault.
Jaspal Singh, 29, a citizen of India was arrested on January 29 in Tukwila, Washington.
Singh is charged with &ldquo;assault with sexual motivation&rdquo;, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Seattle said in a release last week.
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The other individuals arrested are citizens of Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. All four will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
&ldquo;Protecting our communities, and preventing further victimisation is of paramount importance to ICE throughout the Pacific Northwest,&rdquo; said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle Field Office Director Drew Bostock.
&ldquo;These arrests reinforce the message that the presence of illegal criminal threats will not be tolerated.&rdquo; President Donald Trump kicked off his second term in office with an ambitious immigration agenda, promising to deport millions of undocumented immigrants and seal off the US southern border.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aggressive-and-threatening-behaviour-trespassers-barge-into-indian-consulate-in-seattle-local-authorities-called-in-8699925" rel="dofollow">'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle</a>
Since then, Trump administration officials have swiftly moved to strip temporary protections for migrants and delegate more authority to federal and state partners.
More than 8,000 people have been arrested by federal immigration authorities since Trump's inauguration. Administration officials have not shared exactly how many undocumented immigrants they're aiming to arrest this year, but daily apprehensions have already surpassed last year's daily average under President Joe Biden, CNN reported.&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: 29-year-old Jaspal Singh is charged with “assault with sexual motivation”, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Seattle said in a release last week.

An Indian national is among four persons arrested by US immigration authorities over charges related to sexual assault. Jaspal Singh, 29, a citizen of India was arrested on January 29 in Tukwila, Washington. Singh is charged with “assault with sexual motivation”, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Seattle said in a release last week. Also read: '487 presumed Indians got final removal orders': MEA on US deportations The other individuals arrested are citizens of Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. All four will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. “Protecting our communities, and preventing further victimisation is of paramount importance to ICE throughout the Pacific Northwest,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle Field Office Director Drew Bostock. “These arrests reinforce the message that the presence of illegal criminal threats will not be tolerated.” President Donald Trump kicked off his second term in office with an ambitious immigration agenda, promising to deport millions of undocumented immigrants and seal off the US southern border. Also read: 'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle Since then, Trump administration officials have swiftly moved to strip temporary protections for migrants and delegate more authority to federal and state partners. More than 8,000 people have been arrested by federal immigration authorities since Trump's inauguration. Administration officials have not shared exactly how many undocumented immigrants they're aiming to arrest this year, but daily apprehensions have already surpassed last year's daily average under President Joe Biden, CNN reported. 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.

Indian man arrested by US immigration authorities over sexual assault charges

A day after a Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE cost-cutting initiative stepped down following a Wall Street Journal report exposing his racist social media activity, the Trump administration has pledged to reinstate him.
&ldquo;He will be brought back,&rdquo; Musk announced on X. &ldquo;To err is human, to forgive divine.&rdquo;
Musk&rsquo;s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283">How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession</a>
Vice President Vance publicly defended Elez, one of two government employees associated with Musk who had been granted access to sensitive taxpayer data.
"Here's my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez's posts, but I don't think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life," Vance wrote.
During a press conference on Friday, Trump was asked about the demands for Elez&rsquo;s reinstatement. He indicated that he supported Vance&rsquo;s position.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-transgenders-woe-as-passport-process-gets-complicated-for-them-amid-trumps-new-policy-8703305">American Transgenders woe as passport process gets complicated for them amid Trump's new policy</a>
&ldquo;Well, I don&rsquo;t know about that particular thing, but if the vice president said that,&rdquo; Trump stated, before turning to Vance, who was present at the event, and confirming his stance. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m with the vice president.&rdquo;
Elez was one of only two individuals linked to DOGE who had been permitted by a federal court to access the Treasury Department system, which oversees the distribution of over $5 trillion annually. A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283"></a>Earlier on Friday, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users whether Elez should be reinstated. The results showed that 78% supported his return to the Department of Government Efficiency.
Elez resigned on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal revealed his past racist social media comments. According to the report, one of his posts from July read: "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool."
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Other posts reportedly included statements such as "Normalize Indian hate" and "You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity."
Before his brief tenure in the federal government, Elez had worked at two of Musk&rsquo;s private companies&mdash;SpaceX and X.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Musk’s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez.

A day after a Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk’s DOGE cost-cutting initiative stepped down following a Wall Street Journal report exposing his racist social media activity, the Trump administration has pledged to reinstate him. “He will be brought back,” Musk announced on X. “To err is human, to forgive divine.” Musk’s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez. Also read: How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession Vice President Vance publicly defended Elez, one of two government employees associated with Musk who had been granted access to sensitive taxpayer data. "Here's my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez's posts, but I don't think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life," Vance wrote. During a press conference on Friday, Trump was asked about the demands for Elez’s reinstatement. He indicated that he supported Vance’s position. Also read: American Transgenders woe as passport process gets complicated for them amid Trump's new policy “Well, I don’t know about that particular thing, but if the vice president said that,” Trump stated, before turning to Vance, who was present at the event, and confirming his stance. “I’m with the vice president.” Elez was one of only two individuals linked to DOGE who had been permitted by a federal court to access the Treasury Department system, which oversees the distribution of over $5 trillion annually. A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. Also read: Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center Earlier on Friday, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users whether Elez should be reinstated. The results showed that 78% supported his return to the Department of Government Efficiency. Elez resigned on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal revealed his past racist social media comments. According to the report, one of his posts from July read: "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool." Also read: Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' Other posts reportedly included statements such as "Normalize Indian hate" and "You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity." Before his brief tenure in the federal government, Elez had worked at two of Musk’s private companies—SpaceX and X. (With inputs from agencies)

‘To err is human’: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 8) stressed that Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/putin" rel="dofollow">Putin</a> is not preparing for negotiations or peace, but for the continuation of war.&nbsp;
The Ukrainian president said that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities.&nbsp;
"This means one simple thing&mdash;Putin is preparing not for negotiations, not for peace, but for the continuation of the war&mdash;and not only against Ukraine," Zelensky said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-open-to-face-to-face-talks-with-enemy-putin-but-only-under-one-condition-8691634" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Won't be kind to him&rsquo;: Zelensky open to face-to-face talks with 'enemy' Putin, but only under one condition</a>
He further said that Russia's cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand, adding that Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, "particularly drone technologies."&nbsp;
"They are now increasing their army by more than a hundred thousand soldiers," the Ukrainian president claimed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-calls-for-us-companies-to-invest-in-ukraines-rare-earths-8691277" rel="dofollow">Zelensky invites US companies to invest in Ukraine's rare earths</a>
He warned "All partners must be aware of this and see it clearly."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Intelligence reports confirm that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities. Their cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand. Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, particularly drone technologies.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/2r5Uw4IdGQ">pic.twitter.com/2r5Uw4IdGQ</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1888252053392159125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier on Friday, Zelensky said that North Korean troops have returned to the frontline in Russia's Kursk region. A &ldquo;significant number&rdquo; of opposing troops had been &ldquo;destroyed&rdquo;, he said. &ldquo;We are talking about hundreds of Russian and North Korean soldiers.&rdquo;
North Korea sent more than 10,000 soldiers to Russia last year to help Moscow in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow"> Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
US President Donald Trump on Friday said he would "probably" meet Zelensky next week. The US president when asked by reporters in the White House whether such a meeting would be in Washington, replied that it &ldquo;could be Washington &ndash; well, I&rsquo;m not going there&rdquo;, referring to Kyiv.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re also planning meetings and talks at the teams&rsquo; level. Right now Ukrainian and American teams are working out the details," he said in a post on X.&nbsp;
&nbsp;Zelenskyy&rsquo;s chief of staff said Ukraine was looking forward to a visit this month by Trump&rsquo;s special envoy for the region.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Zelensky said that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities, adding Putin is preparing not for negotiations but for war. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (Feb 8) stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not preparing for negotiations or peace, but for the continuation of war. The Ukrainian president said that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities. "This means one simple thing—Putin is preparing not for negotiations, not for peace, but for the continuation of the war—and not only against Ukraine," Zelensky said. Also read: ‘Won't be kind to him’: Zelensky open to face-to-face talks with 'enemy' Putin, but only under one condition He further said that Russia's cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand, adding that Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, "particularly drone technologies." "They are now increasing their army by more than a hundred thousand soldiers," the Ukrainian president claimed. Also read: Zelensky invites US companies to invest in Ukraine's rare earths He warned "All partners must be aware of this and see it clearly." Intelligence reports confirm that Russia is forming new divisions and developing new military production facilities. Their cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand. Moscow is also spreading modern warfare technologies to the region, particularly drone technologies.… pic.twitter.com/2r5Uw4IdGQ — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 8, 2025 Earlier on Friday, Zelensky said that North Korean troops have returned to the frontline in Russia's Kursk region. A “significant number” of opposing troops had been “destroyed”, he said. “We are talking about hundreds of Russian and North Korean soldiers.” North Korea sent more than 10,000 soldiers to Russia last year to help Moscow in its war with Ukraine. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky US President Donald Trump on Friday said he would "probably" meet Zelensky next week. The US president when asked by reporters in the White House whether such a meeting would be in Washington, replied that it “could be Washington – well, I’m not going there”, referring to Kyiv. “We’re also planning meetings and talks at the teams’ level. Right now Ukrainian and American teams are working out the details," he said in a post on X. Zelenskyy’s chief of staff said Ukraine was looking forward to a visit this month by Trump’s special envoy for the region. (With inputs from agencies)

'Putin preparing for war, not peace or negotiations', Zelensky claims

As US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring people from updating the sex on their passports, Lisa Suhay took her daughter Mellow to a passport office, as they want her&nbsp; to leave America before it becomes unbearable for transgenders.&nbsp;
Mellow, who is 21 years old, was taken to a passport office in Norfolk, Virginia, where they live.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512" rel="dofollow">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
Trump signed an executive order, using a narrow definition of the sexes instead of a broader conception of gender. According to the order, a person is either a male or a female.&nbsp;
It also rejects the idea that someone can transition from the sex assigned at birth to another gender.&nbsp;
Mellow's family wants her to be able to leave the country if things become unbearable for transgender people in the US.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If the worst was to come to worst and things were to threaten my life,&rdquo; she said, &ldquo;I would have some way out.&rdquo;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-banning-transgender-from-female-sports-8694059" rel="dofollow"> Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports</a>
Mellow checked on the "male" box, even though that's different from her state-issued driver's license.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We had to swear an oath to the fact that the information that we presented was true, even if what we had to do was not truthful to ourselves,&rdquo; Mellow said. &ldquo;It was emotional because it was in a way lying to yourself.&rdquo;
Mellow's mother said she is worried that her daughter might not be granted a passport or that it could create legal problems if her documents don't match or because she swore to something where she was not true.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-transgender-people-us-military-executive-orders-8661366" rel="dofollow">Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?</a>
Following Trump's order, seven people filed a federal lawsuit challenging the State Department's refusal to issue passports with accurate sex designations.&nbsp;
The lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Massachusetts, and law firm Covington &amp; Burling LLP, on behalf of those seven people. The complaint was filed in the federal District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
Under the ensuing Passport Policy, within 24 hours, the State Department began holding some passports and other relevant documents, submitted by the transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people who had applied to update the sex designation on their US passports.&nbsp;
They further returned the documents and passports with their applications rejected and their newly-issued passport marked with their sex assigned at birth.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-deserve-this-jo-ellis-transgender-pilot-wrongly-named-in-washington-plane-crash-speaks-out-who-is-she-8682211" rel="dofollow">'I don&rsquo;t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH</a>
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve lived virtually my entire adult life as a man. Everyone in my personal and professional life knows me as a man, and any stranger on the street who encountered me would view me as a man,&rdquo; said Reid Solomon-Lane of North Adams, Massachusetts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I thought that 18 years after transitioning, I would be able to live my life in safety and ease. Now, as a married father of three, Trump&rsquo;s executive order and the ensuing passport policy have threatened that life of safety and ease. If my passport were to reflect a sex designation that is inconsistent with who I am, I would be forcibly outed every time I used my passport for travel or identification, causing potential risk to my safety and my family&rsquo;s safety," Reid said.&nbsp;
Earlier, the State Department permitted people to change the sex designation on their passports to be aligned with their gender identity.&nbsp;
However, since Trump's new order, the department publicly announced that applications to obtain a sex designation consistent with their gender identity rather than their sex assigned at birth have been "suspended".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump signed an executive order, using a narrow definition of the sexes instead of a broader conception of gender. As per the order, a person is either a male or a female. 

As US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring people from updating the sex on their passports, Lisa Suhay took her daughter Mellow to a passport office, as they want her to leave America before it becomes unbearable for transgenders. Mellow, who is 21 years old, was taken to a passport office in Norfolk, Virginia, where they live. Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports Trump signed an executive order, using a narrow definition of the sexes instead of a broader conception of gender. According to the order, a person is either a male or a female. It also rejects the idea that someone can transition from the sex assigned at birth to another gender. Mellow's family wants her to be able to leave the country if things become unbearable for transgender people in the US. “If the worst was to come to worst and things were to threaten my life,” she said, “I would have some way out.” Also read: Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports Mellow checked on the "male" box, even though that's different from her state-issued driver's license. “We had to swear an oath to the fact that the information that we presented was true, even if what we had to do was not truthful to ourselves,” Mellow said. “It was emotional because it was in a way lying to yourself.” Mellow's mother said she is worried that her daughter might not be granted a passport or that it could create legal problems if her documents don't match or because she swore to something where she was not true. Also read: Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines? Following Trump's order, seven people filed a federal lawsuit challenging the State Department's refusal to issue passports with accurate sex designations. The lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Massachusetts, and law firm Covington & Burling LLP, on behalf of those seven people. The complaint was filed in the federal District Court for the District of Massachusetts. Under the ensuing Passport Policy, within 24 hours, the State Department began holding some passports and other relevant documents, submitted by the transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people who had applied to update the sex designation on their US passports. They further returned the documents and passports with their applications rejected and their newly-issued passport marked with their sex assigned at birth. Also read: 'I don’t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH “I’ve lived virtually my entire adult life as a man. Everyone in my personal and professional life knows me as a man, and any stranger on the street who encountered me would view me as a man,” said Reid Solomon-Lane of North Adams, Massachusetts. “I thought that 18 years after transitioning, I would be able to live my life in safety and ease. Now, as a married father of three, Trump’s executive order and the ensuing passport policy have threatened that life of safety and ease. If my passport were to reflect a sex designation that is inconsistent with who I am, I would be forcibly outed every time I used my passport for travel or identification, causing potential risk to my safety and my family’s safety," Reid said. Earlier, the State Department permitted people to change the sex designation on their passports to be aligned with their gender identity. However, since Trump's new order, the department publicly announced that applications to obtain a sex designation consistent with their gender identity rather than their sex assigned at birth have been "suspended". (With inputs from agencies)

Transgender Americans face complicated passport process amid Trump's new policy

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, won a historic mandate in Delhi polls on Saturday ousting the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) from power. The AAP's seat count plummeted to 22, a significant drop from its previous tally of 62 in the 2020 Delhi elections.
Meanwhile, Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 8) as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-only-put-oil-on-the-fire-trumps-proposal-for-gaza-take-over-faces-international-backlash-8694036" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ceasefire</a>&nbsp;agreement. In return, Israel freed&nbsp;183 Palestinian prisoners.
In other news, A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-results-2025-bjp-triumphs-after-27-years-ousting-aap-congress-fails-to-open-account-8703038">Delhi Election Results 2025: BJP triumphs after 27 years, ousting AAP; Congress fails to open</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-results-2025-bjp-triumphs-after-27-years-ousting-aap-congress-fails-to-open-account-8703038">&nbsp;account</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/f1nEgTbYioHmV4F3AS9i.jpeg" alt=" Delhi Election 2025: BJP triumphs, ends 27-year wait Photograph: (ANI/Wion Web Team) ">
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, won a historic mandate in Delhi polls on Saturday after a 27-year hiatus, ousting the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) from power. The AAP's seat count plummeted to 22, a significant drop from its previous tally of 62 in the 2020 Delhi elections.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-three-more-israeli-hostages-under-gaza-ceasefire-deal-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-soon-8702185">'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/gRJ2PfpDOJkf4PetKS5k.png" alt=" The three hostages Ohad Ben Ami and Eli Sharabi were both taken from Kibbutz Be'eri, and Or Levy was abducted from the Nova music festival. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 8) as part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-only-put-oil-on-the-fire-trumps-proposal-for-gaza-take-over-faces-international-backlash-8694036" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ceasefire</a>&nbsp;agreement. In return, Israel freed&nbsp;183 Palestinian prisoners.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-blocks-musks-doge-from-accessing-us-treasury-department-sensitive-personal-data-8702676">Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/23/eQyAcKTrONPG2K6ZM7GS.png" alt=" File photo of Elon Musk. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/look-like-holocaust-survivors-red-cross-demands-private-hostage-swap-after-hamas-choreographed-handover-8703128#google_vignette">'Look like Holocaust survivors&rsquo;: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed handover</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/z6bSHQUvPOjAVxsUyCO4.png" alt=" The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is overseeing ongoing hostage-prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, has called for future exchanges to be conducted in private. Photograph: (AFP, WION Web Team) ">
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is overseeing ongoing hostage-prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, has called for future exchanges to be conducted in private.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-detects-malicious-activity-by-china-targeting-liberal-partys-leadership-candidate-chrystia-freeland-8703062">Canada detects 'malicious activity' linked to China targeting Liberal party candidate Chrystia Freeland</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/06/yuy8cwhtmT8dTxX5LIvy.png" alt=" File Photo: Chrystia Freeland Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
Canada has detected a malicious "information operation" on Chinese social media targeting Liberal Party candidate and former Deputy Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chrystia-freeland" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Chrystia Freeland</a>.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missing-alaska-plane-found-crashed-all-10-onboard-feared-dead-8700874">Missing Alaska plane found, all 10 aboard feared dead</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/2x55Q8JlcrPAQTh79LSr.png" alt=" Missing Alaska plane found crashed, all 10 onboard feared dead Photograph: (X) ">
A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biggest-losers-of-delhi-election-ex-cm-kejriwal-sisodia-and-other-heavyweights-suffer-defeats-8702614">Biggest losers of Delhi election: Ex-CM Kejriwal, Sisodia, and other heavyweights suffer defeats</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/q4zkwbyNNDUQsV8GxxRi.png" alt=" In what was perhaps the most significant upset, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal was defeated by BJP&rsquo;s Parvesh Verma in the New Delhi constituency. Photograph: (PTI, Wion Web Team) ">
The 2025 Delhi Assembly election delivered some unexpected results, with several high-profile candidates failing to secure their seats. Here is a look at the major political figures who faced defeat in this year&rsquo;s polls.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/us-man-gets-gene-edited-pig-kidney-8701926">Boost in the area of xenotransplantation as US man gets gene-edited pig kidney</a>
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Tim Andrews became only the second person known to be living with a pig kidney. The surgeons at Massachusetts General Hospital transplanted a genetically modified kidney from a pig into 66-year-old Andrews.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohan-jaitley-frontrunner-for-bccis-joint-secretary-post-sgm-on-march-1-8701050">Rohan Jaitley frontrunner for BCCI's Joint Secretary post; SGM on March 1</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohan-jaitley" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rohan Jaitley</a>, the president of the Delhi &amp; District Cricket Association (DDCA), is the leading candidate for the position of Joint Secretary in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BCCI</a>). The election is set to take place during a Special General Meeting (SGM) on March 1 at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/chelsea-handler-jokes-about-blake-lively-and-justin-baldonis-feud-at-critics-choice-awards-not-going-to-be-a-sequel-8701656">Chelsea Handler jokes about Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's feud at Critics Choice Awards: 'Thankyou for distraction'</a>
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<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/8Z4AYPA3CRyY0RXmuF6D.png" alt=" In the picture US comedian Chelsea Handler and a still from It End With Us Photograph: (X) ">
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's much-publicised drama has made its award season debut, as it was mentioned during the star-studded night of Critics Choice Awards.&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world.


The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, won a historic mandate in Delhi polls on Saturday ousting the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) from power. The AAP's seat count plummeted to 22, a significant drop from its previous tally of 62 in the 2020 Delhi elections. Meanwhile, Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 8) as part of the ceasefire agreement. In return, Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners. In other news, A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. Click on the headlines to read more Delhi Election Results 2025: BJP triumphs after 27 years, ousting AAP; Congress fails to open account The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, won a historic mandate in Delhi polls on Saturday after a 27-year hiatus, ousting the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) from power. The AAP's seat count plummeted to 22, a significant drop from its previous tally of 62 in the 2020 Delhi elections. 'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 8) as part of the ceasefire agreement. In return, Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners. Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. 'Look like Holocaust survivors’: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed handover The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is overseeing ongoing hostage-prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, has called for future exchanges to be conducted in private. Canada detects 'malicious activity' linked to China targeting Liberal party candidate Chrystia Freeland Canada has detected a malicious "information operation" on Chinese social media targeting Liberal Party candidate and former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. Missing Alaska plane found, all 10 aboard feared dead A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead. Biggest losers of Delhi election: Ex-CM Kejriwal, Sisodia, and other heavyweights suffer defeats The 2025 Delhi Assembly election delivered some unexpected results, with several high-profile candidates failing to secure their seats. Here is a look at the major political figures who faced defeat in this year’s polls. Boost in the area of xenotransplantation as US man gets gene-edited pig kidney Tim Andrews became only the second person known to be living with a pig kidney. The surgeons at Massachusetts General Hospital transplanted a genetically modified kidney from a pig into 66-year-old Andrews. Rohan Jaitley frontrunner for BCCI's Joint Secretary post; SGM on March 1 Rohan Jaitley, the president of the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), is the leading candidate for the position of Joint Secretary in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The election is set to take place during a Special General Meeting (SGM) on March 1 at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai. Chelsea Handler jokes about Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's feud at Critics Choice Awards: 'Thankyou for distraction' Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's much-publicised drama has made its award season debut, as it was mentioned during the star-studded night of Critics Choice Awards.

Top 10 world news: BJP wins Delhi election after 27 years, Hamas releases three Israeli hostages and more

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is overseeing ongoing hostage-prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, has called for future exchanges to be conducted in private.
In a statement released on Saturday, following the fifth exchange, the ICRC expressed deep concern about the circumstances surrounding the releases. "The ICRC is increasingly concerned about the conditions surrounding release operations. We strongly urge all parties, including the mediators, to take responsibility to ensure that future releases are dignified and private," the statement read.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-three-more-israeli-hostages-under-gaza-ceasefire-deal-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-soon-8702185">'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas</a>
This appeal follows public backlash from Israeli families and officials over the latest hostage exchange, where disturbing images of released captives emerged.
The three men released appeared visibly frail, pale, and in noticeably poorer health compared to the 18 hostages previously freed under the ceasefire agreement established last month.
In a further display of force, Hamas, which has previously showcased its fighters during these exchanges, deployed dozens of militants in central Gaza as hostages were handed over to the ICRC.
Michal Cohen, the mother-in-law of released hostage Ohad Ben Ami, told Channel 13 News, "He looked like a skeleton, it was awful to see." The handover, orchestrated by Hamas, included a masked individual questioning the hostages while armed militants stood guard on either side.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fired-israeli-ex-defence-minister-yoav-gallant-slams-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-claims-hezbollah-could-have-been-wiped-out-in-oct-2023-8698627">Fired Israeli ex-defence minister Gallant slams Netanyahu, claims Hezbollah could have been 'wiped out' in Oct 2023</a>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the 'shocking images' and vowed action. "We will not go into the agenda about the shocking sights we saw today. The shocking images we saw today will not pass without response," his office said.
President Isaac Herzog also denounced the manner of the release, calling it "cynical and vicious." "This is what a crime against humanity looks like," he said.
The Hostage Families Forum likened the appearance of the released captives to Holocaust survivors. "We have to get ALL THE HOSTAGES out of hell," the group said.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa&rsquo;ar criticised the global narrative surrounding Gaza, arguing that the true victims of starvation are the hostages. "For over a year, the entire international community has danced to the tune of the false propaganda of so-called &lsquo;starvation&rsquo; in Gaza," Sa&rsquo;ar stated in a post on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slaps-sanctions-on-icc-over-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-baseless-arrest-warrant-8697704">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>
"But the images don&rsquo;t lie: Hamas terrorists and other Gaza residents look perfectly fine. The Israeli hostages look like Holocaust survivors and they are the only ones in the pictures who clearly appear to have suffered from starvation," he added.
Sa&rsquo;ar said, "Hamas has committed crimes against humanity against civilian hostages. This Hamas-Nazi evil must be eradicated!"
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: In a statement released on Saturday, following the fifth exchange, the ICRC expressed deep concern about the circumstances surrounding the releases. 

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which is overseeing ongoing hostage-prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, has called for future exchanges to be conducted in private. In a statement released on Saturday, following the fifth exchange, the ICRC expressed deep concern about the circumstances surrounding the releases. "The ICRC is increasingly concerned about the conditions surrounding release operations. We strongly urge all parties, including the mediators, to take responsibility to ensure that future releases are dignified and private," the statement read. Also read: 'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas This appeal follows public backlash from Israeli families and officials over the latest hostage exchange, where disturbing images of released captives emerged. The three men released appeared visibly frail, pale, and in noticeably poorer health compared to the 18 hostages previously freed under the ceasefire agreement established last month. In a further display of force, Hamas, which has previously showcased its fighters during these exchanges, deployed dozens of militants in central Gaza as hostages were handed over to the ICRC. Michal Cohen, the mother-in-law of released hostage Ohad Ben Ami, told Channel 13 News, "He looked like a skeleton, it was awful to see." The handover, orchestrated by Hamas, included a masked individual questioning the hostages while armed militants stood guard on either side. Also read: Fired Israeli ex-defence minister Gallant slams Netanyahu, claims Hezbollah could have been 'wiped out' in Oct 2023 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the 'shocking images' and vowed action. "We will not go into the agenda about the shocking sights we saw today. The shocking images we saw today will not pass without response," his office said. President Isaac Herzog also denounced the manner of the release, calling it "cynical and vicious." "This is what a crime against humanity looks like," he said. The Hostage Families Forum likened the appearance of the released captives to Holocaust survivors. "We have to get ALL THE HOSTAGES out of hell," the group said. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar criticised the global narrative surrounding Gaza, arguing that the true victims of starvation are the hostages. "For over a year, the entire international community has danced to the tune of the false propaganda of so-called ‘starvation’ in Gaza," Sa’ar stated in a post on X. Also read: Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu "But the images don’t lie: Hamas terrorists and other Gaza residents look perfectly fine. The Israeli hostages look like Holocaust survivors and they are the only ones in the pictures who clearly appear to have suffered from starvation," he added. Sa’ar said, "Hamas has committed crimes against humanity against civilian hostages. This Hamas-Nazi evil must be eradicated!" (With inputs from agencies)

'Look like Holocaust survivors’: Red Cross demands 'private' hostage swap after Hamas' choreographed handover

<div>More than 30 people are missing after a landslide in China's southwestern Sichuan province on Saturday, state broadcaster CCTV reported.</div>
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<div>The landslide hit Jinping village in the city of Yibin at around 11:50 am local time (0350 GMT).</div>
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<div>"Ten houses had been buried, more than 30 people were missing, and around 200 people were evacuated and relocated," CCTV said.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-baltej-singh-dhillon-first-turbaned-sikh-officer-in-rcmp-appointed-as-senator-in-canada-8702509">Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon? First turbaned Sikh officer in RCMP to be appointed as senator in Canada</a>
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<div>People should avoid the area as the landslide was "still ongoing", the state broadcaster added, quoting on-site rescuers.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>China's President Xi Jinping had ordered authorities to do "everything possible to search for and rescue missing people, minimise casualties, and properly handle the aftermath".&nbsp;</div>
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<div>The country's Ministry of Emergency Management said in an online post that two people had been rescued.</div>
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<div>Emergency response teams were on site searching for survivors, it added.</div>
Also read | <a href="Judge%20blocks%20Musk's%20DOGE%20from%20accessing%20US%20Treasury%20Department's%20sensitive%20personal%20data">Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data</a>
<div>Authorities have also allocated 30 million yuan ($4.1 million) to support the disaster relief efforts.</div>
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<div>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.</div>
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Over individuals are unaccounted for after a significant landslide struck Sichuan province in southwest China, according to state media reports on Saturday.

More than 30 people are missing after a landslide in China's southwestern Sichuan province on Saturday, state broadcaster CCTV reported. The landslide hit Jinping village in the city of Yibin at around 11:50 am local time (0350 GMT). "Ten houses had been buried, more than 30 people were missing, and around 200 people were evacuated and relocated," CCTV said. Also read | Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon? First turbaned Sikh officer in RCMP to be appointed as senator in Canada People should avoid the area as the landslide was "still ongoing", the state broadcaster added, quoting on-site rescuers. China's President Xi Jinping had ordered authorities to do "everything possible to search for and rescue missing people, minimise casualties, and properly handle the aftermath". The country's Ministry of Emergency Management said in an online post that two people had been rescued. Emergency response teams were on site searching for survivors, it added. Also read | Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data Authorities have also allocated 30 million yuan ($4.1 million) to support the disaster relief efforts. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Over 30 missing after landslide hits southwest China

A flight from Toncontin International Airport in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, turned into a frightening experience when a passenger pulled out a gun and threatened to kill people shortly after takeoff. The sudden incident shocked everyone on board.
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Passengers on a flight from Tegucigalpa Toncontin International Airport, (TGU), Honduras to Roatan International Airport, (RTB), Honduras experienced moments of anguish when a man pulled out a firearm and threatened to kill them. The situation caused panic on board and forced&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/eH1faOhtfF">pic.twitter.com/eH1faOhtfF</a>
&mdash; FL360aero (@fl360aero) <a href="https://twitter.com/fl360aero/status/1887552707788988838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<h2>The flight crew stops the gunman</h2>
The flight attendants acted quickly and managed to control the man before he could harm anyone. The pilot immediately decided to turn the plane around and return to Toncontin International Airport, where it landed safely on Thursday.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-detects-malicious-activity-by-china-targeting-liberal-partys-leadership-candidate-chrystia-freeland-8703062">Canada detects 'malicious activity' by China targeting Liberal party's leadership candidate Chrystia Freeland</a>
<h2>Police arrest the suspect</h2>
As soon as the plane landed, National Police officers came on board and arrested the man. Thankfully, no one was injured during the incident.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-baltej-singh-dhillon-first-turbaned-sikh-officer-in-rcmp-appointed-as-senator-in-canada-8702509">Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon? First turbaned Sikh officer in RCMP to be appointed as senator in Canada</a>
<h2>Passengers continue their journey</h2>
According to reports by Mirror, after the scary situation, the airline arranged another flight for the passengers to continue their trip to Roat&aacute;n. Officials have not shared any details about the suspect or why he had the gun.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-three-more-israeli-hostages-under-gaza-ceasefire-deal-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-soon-8702185">'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas</a>
<h2>Security concerns at the airport</h2>
People are now questioning how the man was able to bring a gun onto the plane.
A local resident said,"They must have very ineffective passenger screening going on at that airport, very dangerous if it happened during the flight."
Both CM Airlines and TagAirlines, which operate flights on this route, have not commented on the security failure. 
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World | As soon as the plane landed, National Police officers came on board and arrested the man. Thankfully, no one was injured during the incident.


A flight from Toncontin International Airport in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, turned into a frightening experience when a passenger pulled out a gun and threatened to kill people shortly after takeoff. The sudden incident shocked everyone on board. Passengers on a flight from Tegucigalpa Toncontin International Airport, (TGU), Honduras to Roatan International Airport, (RTB), Honduras experienced moments of anguish when a man pulled out a firearm and threatened to kill them. The situation caused panic on board and forced… pic.twitter.com/eH1faOhtfF — FL360aero (@fl360aero) February 6, 2025 The flight crew stops the gunman The flight attendants acted quickly and managed to control the man before he could harm anyone. The pilot immediately decided to turn the plane around and return to Toncontin International Airport, where it landed safely on Thursday. Also Read | Canada detects 'malicious activity' by China targeting Liberal party's leadership candidate Chrystia Freeland Police arrest the suspect As soon as the plane landed, National Police officers came on board and arrested the man. Thankfully, no one was injured during the incident. Also Read | Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon? First turbaned Sikh officer in RCMP to be appointed as senator in Canada Passengers continue their journey According to reports by Mirror, after the scary situation, the airline arranged another flight for the passengers to continue their trip to Roatán. Officials have not shared any details about the suspect or why he had the gun. Also Read | 'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas Security concerns at the airport People are now questioning how the man was able to bring a gun onto the plane. A local resident said,"They must have very ineffective passenger screening going on at that airport, very dangerous if it happened during the flight." Both CM Airlines and TagAirlines, which operate flights on this route, have not commented on the security failure.

Watch: Man pulls gun on plane, sparking fear among passengers mid-air

Canada has detected a malicious "information operation" on Chinese social media targeting Liberal Party candidate and former Deputy Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chrystia-freeland" rel="dofollow">Chrystia Freeland</a>.&nbsp;
The suspected interference has been traced to a WeChat account linked to the Chinese government.&nbsp;
Global Affairs Canada&rsquo;s Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM Canada), while monitoring the digital information ecosystem, identified an information operation targeting Freeland, the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections Task Force (SITE) said in a statement on Friday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chrystia-freeland-enters-race-to-replace-trudeau-as-canadas-prime-minister-who-is-she-8630992" rel="dofollow">Chrystia Freeland enters race to replace Trudeau as Canada's prime minister. Who is she?</a>
&ldquo;RRM Canada detected coordinated and malicious activity about Ms. Freeland. The launch of this information operation was traced to WeChat&rsquo;s most popular news account &ndash; an anonymous blog that has been previously linked by experts at the China Digital Times to the People&rsquo;s Republic of China,&rdquo; the statement read.
According to the release, the members of Freeland's campaign and the executive of the Liberal Party of Canada have been briefed on the findings.&nbsp;
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Freeland took to X on Friday and responded to the suspected interference.&nbsp;
She said that she would not be intimidated by Chinese foreign interference.&nbsp;
"Having spent years confronting authoritarian regimes, I know firsthand the importance of defending our freedoms,&rdquo; she further said.
Freeland announced on Jan 17 that she will run for leadership of Canada's Liberal Party, stressing that it is time to fight as US President-elect Donald Trump is threatening the country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-justin-trudeau-tries-to-downplay-freelands-resignation-challenge-to-leadership-as-family-spat-784898" rel="dofollow">Canada PM Justin Trudeau tries to downplay Freeland's resignation, challenge to leadership as 'family' spat</a>
This comes a day after Trudeau said that he will not be contesting the upcoming federal elections scheduled for October this year and also hinted at quitting politics.&nbsp;
The 56-year-old Chrystia Freeland is a former journalist turned senior government minister. Trudeau, in 2013, asked Freeland to leave the media and join politics. Later after winning a seat in Toronto, Freeland was quickly elevated to vaunted ministerial roles in the Trudeau government.&nbsp;
Freeland resigned as the country's finance minister in December, after facing clashes with PM Trudeau, over how to handle the looming threat of US tariffs.
If elected as PM, Freeland will be the second female prime minister in the country&rsquo;s history.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Freeland took to X on Friday and responded to the suspected interference, saying that she would not be intimidated by Chinese foreign interference. 

Canada has detected a malicious "information operation" on Chinese social media targeting Liberal Party candidate and former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. The suspected interference has been traced to a WeChat account linked to the Chinese government. Global Affairs Canada’s Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM Canada), while monitoring the digital information ecosystem, identified an information operation targeting Freeland, the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections Task Force (SITE) said in a statement on Friday. Also read: Chrystia Freeland enters race to replace Trudeau as Canada's prime minister. Who is she? “RRM Canada detected coordinated and malicious activity about Ms. Freeland. The launch of this information operation was traced to WeChat’s most popular news account – an anonymous blog that has been previously linked by experts at the China Digital Times to the People’s Republic of China,” the statement read. According to the release, the members of Freeland's campaign and the executive of the Liberal Party of Canada have been briefed on the findings. Also read: Trudeau’s time’s up? Dozens of Canadian Liberal MPs revolt after Freeland’s exit Freeland took to X on Friday and responded to the suspected interference. She said that she would not be intimidated by Chinese foreign interference. "Having spent years confronting authoritarian regimes, I know firsthand the importance of defending our freedoms,” she further said. Freeland announced on Jan 17 that she will run for leadership of Canada's Liberal Party, stressing that it is time to fight as US President-elect Donald Trump is threatening the country. Also read: Canada PM Justin Trudeau tries to downplay Freeland's resignation, challenge to leadership as 'family' spat This comes a day after Trudeau said that he will not be contesting the upcoming federal elections scheduled for October this year and also hinted at quitting politics. The 56-year-old Chrystia Freeland is a former journalist turned senior government minister. Trudeau, in 2013, asked Freeland to leave the media and join politics. Later after winning a seat in Toronto, Freeland was quickly elevated to vaunted ministerial roles in the Trudeau government. Freeland resigned as the country's finance minister in December, after facing clashes with PM Trudeau, over how to handle the looming threat of US tariffs. If elected as PM, Freeland will be the second female prime minister in the country’s history. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada detects 'malicious activity' linked to China targeting Liberal party candidate Chrystia Freeland

Robin Handa, a 26-year-old from Ismailabad in Haryana&rsquo;s Kurukshetra district, endured a seven-month-long journey, passing through several countries to reach the United States. His hopes for a better future in the US were dashed in just 12 days when he was deported back to India.
Robin&rsquo;s father, Manjit Handa, shared the hardships they faced in the process. &nbsp;He says, &ldquo;We sold our one-acre land and spent Rs 45 lakh to send him abroad. The travel agent had promised to send him to the US within one month. However, it took seven months for him to reach the US&rdquo; as reported by The Indian Express.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-three-more-israeli-hostages-under-gaza-ceasefire-deal-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-soon-8702185">'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas</a>
Robin&rsquo;s journey began in Delhi on July 24, 2024. He was first taken to Mumbai and then travelled through various countries, including Guyana, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Mexico, before finally reaching the US on January 22.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-time-magazine-still-in-business-trump-asks-after-president-musk-cover-8701655">'Is Time Magazine still in business?' Trump asks after 'President Musk' cover</a>
<h2>Deportation after Just 12 days</h2>
Upon arriving in the US, Robin immediately surrendered to border police. He was detained and placed in a camp, where he and other detainees were handcuffed and shackled, according to the report.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-blocks-musks-doge-from-accessing-us-treasury-department-sensitive-personal-data-8702676">Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data</a>
&ldquo;We were handcuffed and chains were put on our legs. We were taken out from the detention camp during the night hours in a bus. We were shocked when we saw the military plane. We were put in the plane forcefully.&rdquo; Robin said.
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-appoint-himself-chairman-of-washingtons-top-cultural-venue-the-kennedy-center-8700987"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-appoint-himself-chairman-of-washingtons-top-cultural-venue-the-kennedy-center-8700987">Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center</a>
After being deported, Robin and 103 other deported Indians arrived in Amritsar on a US military aircraft on Wednesday, marking the end of his arduous journey.&nbsp;

Trending | World | Upon arriving in the US, Robin immediately surrendered to border police. He was detained and placed in a camp, where he and other detainees were handcuffed and shackled. 


Robin Handa, a 26-year-old from Ismailabad in Haryana’s Kurukshetra district, endured a seven-month-long journey, passing through several countries to reach the United States. His hopes for a better future in the US were dashed in just 12 days when he was deported back to India. Robin’s father, Manjit Handa, shared the hardships they faced in the process. He says, “We sold our one-acre land and spent Rs 45 lakh to send him abroad. The travel agent had promised to send him to the US within one month. However, it took seven months for him to reach the US” as reported by The Indian Express. Also Read | 'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas Robin’s journey began in Delhi on July 24, 2024. He was first taken to Mumbai and then travelled through various countries, including Guyana, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Mexico, before finally reaching the US on January 22. Also Read | 'Is Time Magazine still in business?' Trump asks after 'President Musk' cover Deportation after Just 12 days Upon arriving in the US, Robin immediately surrendered to border police. He was detained and placed in a camp, where he and other detainees were handcuffed and shackled, according to the report. Also Read | Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data “We were handcuffed and chains were put on our legs. We were taken out from the detention camp during the night hours in a bus. We were shocked when we saw the military plane. We were put in the plane forcefully.” Robin said. Also Read | Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center After being deported, Robin and 103 other deported Indians arrived in Amritsar on a US military aircraft on Wednesday, marking the end of his arduous journey.

Haryana man's long journey to the US ends in 12 days, deported back to India

A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-in-a-poll-on-x-asks-if-he-should-rehire-doge-staffer-who-resigned-over-racist-tweets-8700501" rel="dofollow">Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets</a>
The payment system handles several domains, including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits, sending out trillions of dollars every year while containing an expansive network of Americans' personal and financial data.&nbsp;
According to the case filed in federal court in New York City, the Trump administration allegedly allowed Musk's team access to the Treasury Department's central payment system in violation of federal law.&nbsp;
The district judge, Engelmayer, was appointed by former President Barack Obama. He said that anyone prohibited from having access to the sensitive information since January 20 this year, must immediately destroy all copies of material downloaded from Treasury Department systems.&nbsp;
Engelmayer set a hearing for February 14.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/normalise-indian-hate-elon-musks-highly-trained-doge-employee-resigns-after-questions-on-racist-posts-online-8697917" rel="dofollow">'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online</a>
Earlier, the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit being filed.&nbsp;
Musk's DOGE was created to discover and eliminate what the Trump administration has considered wasteful government spending.&nbsp;
Notably, DOGE's access to Treasury records has triggered widespread concern among critics over the increasing power of Musk in Trump's administration, while supporters have cheered at the idea of reining in bloated government finances.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hints-at-leash-on-elon-musk-as-doge-ramps-up-government-purge-8690491" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
New York Attorney General Letitia James's office filed the lawsuit, saying DOGE's access to the Treasury Department's data raises security problems and the possibility of an illegal freeze in federal funds.&nbsp;
"This unelected group, led by the world's richest man, is not authorized to have this information, and they explicitly sought this unauthorized access to illegally block payments that millions of Americans rely on, payments for health care, child care, and other essential programs," James said in a video message on Friday.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072" rel="dofollow"> &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
The suit alleged that DOGE's access to the Treasury records could interfere with funding already appropriated by Congress, which would exceed the Treasury Department's statutory authority.&nbsp;
The case further argued that the DOGE access violates federal administrative law and the US Constitution's separation of powers doctrine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump. 

A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump. Also read: Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets The payment system handles several domains, including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits, sending out trillions of dollars every year while containing an expansive network of Americans' personal and financial data. According to the case filed in federal court in New York City, the Trump administration allegedly allowed Musk's team access to the Treasury Department's central payment system in violation of federal law. The district judge, Engelmayer, was appointed by former President Barack Obama. He said that anyone prohibited from having access to the sensitive information since January 20 this year, must immediately destroy all copies of material downloaded from Treasury Department systems. Engelmayer set a hearing for February 14. Also read: 'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online Earlier, the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit being filed. Musk's DOGE was created to discover and eliminate what the Trump administration has considered wasteful government spending. Notably, DOGE's access to Treasury records has triggered widespread concern among critics over the increasing power of Musk in Trump's administration, while supporters have cheered at the idea of reining in bloated government finances. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge New York Attorney General Letitia James's office filed the lawsuit, saying DOGE's access to the Treasury Department's data raises security problems and the possibility of an illegal freeze in federal funds. "This unelected group, led by the world's richest man, is not authorized to have this information, and they explicitly sought this unauthorized access to illegally block payments that millions of Americans rely on, payments for health care, child care, and other essential programs," James said in a video message on Friday. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark The suit alleged that DOGE's access to the Treasury records could interfere with funding already appropriated by Congress, which would exceed the Treasury Department's statutory authority. The case further argued that the DOGE access violates federal administrative law and the US Constitution's separation of powers doctrine. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has appointed Baltej Singh Dhillon&mdash;the first turbaned Sikh officer in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)&mdash;as a Senator in the country&rsquo;s Parliament.
The announcement that Baltej Singh Dhillon will join the upper chamber of Canada&rsquo;s parliament was made on Friday (Feb 7).
&ldquo;Congratulations to Mr. Dhillon, Ms. H&eacute;bert, and Mr. Lewis on their appointment as Parliament&rsquo;s newest independent senators. Their broad range of experience will be a great benefit to the Senate, and I am confident they will continue to be strong voices for their communities," said Justin Trudeau.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-three-more-israeli-hostages-under-gaza-ceasefire-deal-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-freed-soon-8702185">'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Dhillon reacts</h2>
In a statement on Facebook, Dhillon expressed his gratitude for being appointed as a Senator.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I am profoundly honoured to share that I have been appointed as a Senator. This remarkable privilege fills me with immense gratitude, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to serve our nation in such a prestigious role,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;As a Senator, I am dedicated to representing the interests and voices of all Canadians. Together, we will strive to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable nation. In these uncertain times, it is crucial that we unite as a nation to confront the challenges before us,&rdquo; Dhillon added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-time-magazine-still-in-business-trump-asks-after-president-musk-cover-8701655">'Is Time Magazine still in business?' Trump asks after 'President Musk' cover</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon?</h2>
Dhillon is a distinguished retired police officer, community leader, and dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion. Notably, he "made history" in 1991 by becoming the first RCMP officer to wear a turban.&nbsp;
His illustrious 30-year career with the RCMP was marked by significant contributions to several high-profile investigations. More recently, since 2019, he has collaborated with British Columbia's anti-gang agency while continuing to serve his community as a youth leader.
During his long career, Dhillon served in British Columbia and was involved in important investigations including the bombing of Air India flight 182, the Kanishka, by pro-Khalistan terrorists in 1985.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau appoints Baltej Singh Dhillon, the first turbaned Sikh in RCMP history, to the Senate, marking a historic moment in Canadian politics.

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has appointed Baltej Singh Dhillon—the first turbaned Sikh officer in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)—as a Senator in the country’s Parliament. The announcement that Baltej Singh Dhillon will join the upper chamber of Canada’s parliament was made on Friday (Feb 7). “Congratulations to Mr. Dhillon, Ms. Hébert, and Mr. Lewis on their appointment as Parliament’s newest independent senators. Their broad range of experience will be a great benefit to the Senate, and I am confident they will continue to be strong voices for their communities," said Justin Trudeau. Also read | 'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas Dhillon reacts In a statement on Facebook, Dhillon expressed his gratitude for being appointed as a Senator. “I am profoundly honoured to share that I have been appointed as a Senator. This remarkable privilege fills me with immense gratitude, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to serve our nation in such a prestigious role,” he said. “As a Senator, I am dedicated to representing the interests and voices of all Canadians. Together, we will strive to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable nation. In these uncertain times, it is crucial that we unite as a nation to confront the challenges before us,” Dhillon added. Also read | 'Is Time Magazine still in business?' Trump asks after 'President Musk' cover Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon? Dhillon is a distinguished retired police officer, community leader, and dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion. Notably, he "made history" in 1991 by becoming the first RCMP officer to wear a turban. His illustrious 30-year career with the RCMP was marked by significant contributions to several high-profile investigations. More recently, since 2019, he has collaborated with British Columbia's anti-gang agency while continuing to serve his community as a youth leader. During his long career, Dhillon served in British Columbia and was involved in important investigations including the bombing of Air India flight 182, the Kanishka, by pro-Khalistan terrorists in 1985. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Baltej Singh Dhillon? First turbaned Sikh officer in RCMP to be appointed as senator in Canada

Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 08) as part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-only-put-oil-on-the-fire-trumps-proposal-for-gaza-take-over-faces-international-backlash-8694036">ceasefire</a> agreement. In return, Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners.
Ohad Ben Ami and Eli Sharabi were both taken from Kibbutz Be'eri, and Or Levy was abducted from the Nova music festival. All three were captured during the cross-border attack led by Hamas on 7 October 2023.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-and-hamas-to-begin-fifth-hostage-prisoner-exchange-8700961">Gaza ceasefire: Israel and Hamas to begin fifth hostage-prisoner exchange</a>
The three hostages were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) officials in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
ICRC officials transferred them to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli army says.
"The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel. The IDF Spokesperson&rsquo;s Unit asks everyone to respect the privacy of the returning hostages and their families," the IDF said in a statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-backs-trump-plan-orders-army-to-plan-to-let-palestinians-leave-gaza-8698580">Israel backs Trump plan, orders army to plan to let Palestinians leave Gaza</a>
<h2>Shocking images </h2>
Ahead of the release, Hamas brought up the hostages on stage and interviewed them after giving them their handover&nbsp;certificates, as per the live TV coverage.
The visuals of the hostages who appeared pale garnered backlash from the families of the hostages. "The disturbing images from the release of Ohad, Eli, and Or serve as yet another stark and painful evidence that leaves no room for doubt -- there is no time to waste for the hostages! We must get them all out, down to the very last hostage. Now!" the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said in a statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-tortured-executed-own-fighters-over-same-sex-relations-secret-documents-reveal-report-8694251">Hamas 'tortured, executed' own fighters over same-sex relations, secret documents reveal: Report</a>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said, "We will not go into the agenda about the shocking sights we saw today.&nbsp;The shocking images we saw today will not pass without response."
&ldquo;The government of Israel embraces the three returnees,&rdquo; the statement added.
&ldquo;The government, together with security officials, will support them and their families. Israel is committed to bringing back all the hostages and missing,&rdquo; it further read.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: The three hostages Ohad Ben Ami and Eli Sharabi were both taken from Kibbutz Be'eri, and Or Levy was abducted from the Nova music festival.

Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday (Feb 08) as part of the ceasefire agreement. In return, Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners. Ohad Ben Ami and Eli Sharabi were both taken from Kibbutz Be'eri, and Or Levy was abducted from the Nova music festival. All three were captured during the cross-border attack led by Hamas on 7 October 2023. Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Israel and Hamas to begin fifth hostage-prisoner exchange The three hostages were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) officials in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip. ICRC officials transferred them to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli army says. "The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel. The IDF Spokesperson’s Unit asks everyone to respect the privacy of the returning hostages and their families," the IDF said in a statement. Also read: Israel backs Trump plan, orders army to plan to let Palestinians leave Gaza Shocking images Ahead of the release, Hamas brought up the hostages on stage and interviewed them after giving them their handover certificates, as per the live TV coverage. The visuals of the hostages who appeared pale garnered backlash from the families of the hostages. "The disturbing images from the release of Ohad, Eli, and Or serve as yet another stark and painful evidence that leaves no room for doubt -- there is no time to waste for the hostages! We must get them all out, down to the very last hostage. Now!" the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said in a statement. Also read: Hamas 'tortured, executed' own fighters over same-sex relations, secret documents reveal: Report Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said, "We will not go into the agenda about the shocking sights we saw today. The shocking images we saw today will not pass without response." “The government of Israel embraces the three returnees,” the statement added. “The government, together with security officials, will support them and their families. Israel is committed to bringing back all the hostages and missing,” it further read. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will not pass without response': Netanyahu reacts to 'shocking images' of Israeli hostages released by Hamas

US President Donald Trump asked if Time Magazine is still in business after he was asked about its latest cover showing Elon Musk behind Trump's resolute desk. "Is TIME magazine still in business? I didn't even know that," Trump said leading laughs in the room. The US president was asked what is his opinion on the cover, which pushed the "President Musk" narrative. Trump said he did not realise the magazine was still in business.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-appoint-himself-chairman-of-washingtons-top-cultural-venue-the-kennedy-center-8700987">Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center</a>
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NEW: Reporter asks Trump about his reaction to the new TIME cover depicting Elon Musk as president, Trump replies by saying he didn't realize TIME was still in business. Reporter: "Do you have a reaction to the TIME Magazine cover that has Elon Musk sitting behind your resolute&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/GlcoGPqvKh">pic.twitter.com/GlcoGPqvKh</a>
&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1887925469531750707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tit-for-tat-us-president-revokes-security-clearance-of-predecessor-joe-biden-8700784">Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden</a>
The magazine questioned how Musk enjoys the power that no businessman ever had and how he is only accountable to the US president "who handed his campaign benefactor a sweeping mandate to bring the government in line with his agenda".
Trump then went on to praise Musk saying, "Elon is doing a great job. He is finding tremendous fraud and corruption and waste. You see it with the USAID but you are going to see even more with other agencies and other parts of the government."&nbsp;
"He's got a staff that's fantastic. He's wanted to be able to do this for a long time. Everybody else knew it was existent but, I think, never so much when you look at USAID. The whole thing is a fraud," he further added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-intention-to-absorb-canada-into-us-is-real-thing-8700778">Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'</a>
The US president further added, "Very little being put to good use. Every single line that I look at in terms of events and transactions is either corrupt or ridiculous. And we are going to be doing that through our government and we are going to be very close to balancing the budget. He's (Elon) doing a very good job. I am very happy with it."&nbsp;
Trump's statement about Time Magazine came after the US president was selected as Person of the Year in 2024 by the magazine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/keep-it-simple-bangars-advise-to-rohit-sharma-amid-prolonged-lean-patch-8701495">'Keep it simple', Bangar's advise to Rohit Sharma amid prolonged lean patch</a><img src="https://media.cnn.com/api/v1/images/stellar/prod/210401220308-conclu-trump.jpg?q=x_4,y_207,h_2246,w_3991,c_crop/h_833,w_1480" alt="Trump Twitter: Supreme Court wipes away ruling that said Trump violated Constitution by blocking Twitter followers | CNN Politics">
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The US president was asked what is his opinion on the cover, which pushed the "President Musk" narrative. Trump said he did not realise the magazine was still in business. 

US President Donald Trump asked if Time Magazine is still in business after he was asked about its latest cover showing Elon Musk behind Trump's resolute desk. "Is TIME magazine still in business? I didn't even know that," Trump said leading laughs in the room. The US president was asked what is his opinion on the cover, which pushed the "President Musk" narrative. Trump said he did not realise the magazine was still in business. Also read: Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center NEW: Reporter asks Trump about his reaction to the new TIME cover depicting Elon Musk as president, Trump replies by saying he didn't realize TIME was still in business. Reporter: "Do you have a reaction to the TIME Magazine cover that has Elon Musk sitting behind your resolute… pic.twitter.com/GlcoGPqvKh — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 7, 2025 Also read: Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden The magazine questioned how Musk enjoys the power that no businessman ever had and how he is only accountable to the US president "who handed his campaign benefactor a sweeping mandate to bring the government in line with his agenda". Trump then went on to praise Musk saying, "Elon is doing a great job. He is finding tremendous fraud and corruption and waste. You see it with the USAID but you are going to see even more with other agencies and other parts of the government." "He's got a staff that's fantastic. He's wanted to be able to do this for a long time. Everybody else knew it was existent but, I think, never so much when you look at USAID. The whole thing is a fraud," he further added. Also read: Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' The US president further added, "Very little being put to good use. Every single line that I look at in terms of events and transactions is either corrupt or ridiculous. And we are going to be doing that through our government and we are going to be very close to balancing the budget. He's (Elon) doing a very good job. I am very happy with it." Trump's statement about Time Magazine came after the US president was selected as Person of the Year in 2024 by the magazine. Also read: 'Keep it simple', Bangar's advise to Rohit Sharma amid prolonged lean patch (With inputs from agencies)

'Is Time Magazine still in business?' Trump asks after 'President Musk' cover

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, contesting against BJP&rsquo;s Parvesh Verma in New Delhi, is trailing. In Kalkaji, Chief Minister Atishi is trailing behind BJP&rsquo;s Ramesh Bidhuri. Former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia is trailing in Jangpura. BJP&rsquo;s Kapil Mishra is leading in Karawal Nagar. &nbsp;AAP&rsquo;s Saurabh Bharadwaj is ahead in the Greater Kailash seat.
Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the passenger plane that went missing from Alaska's Nemo has been found and all 10 people aboard are believed to be dead.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-elections-results-2025-live-delhi-vidhan-sabha-vote-counting-8th-feb-arvind-kejriwal-aap-bjp-cong-eci-8700787'">LIVE | Delhi Elections Results 2025: BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri leads in early trends, Kejriwal trails</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/c8y5vUQjpietJ5wj3iTv.png" alt=" Delhi Legislative Assembly Elections Results 2025 Live Photograph: (WION Web Team) " style="width: 1280px;">
The counting of votes for the high-stakes Delhi Assembly elections has begun. AAP is aiming for a third consecutive term and the BJP looking to break a two-decade-long drought in the National Capital.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-intention-to-absorb-canada-into-us-is-real-thing-8700778">Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/ewg5HBkv9ufa1wEn143E.png" alt=" Justin Trudeau and Donald Trump Photograph: (Justin Trudeau and Donald Trump. ) ">Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missing-alaska-plane-found-crashed-all-10-onboard-feared-dead-8700874">Missing Alaska plane found, all 10 aboard feared dead</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/2x55Q8JlcrPAQTh79LSr.png" alt=" Missing Alaska plane found crashed, all 10 onboard feared dead Photograph: (X) ">
A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tit-for-tat-us-president-revokes-security-clearance-of-predecessor-joe-biden-8700784">Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/08/X28SlHd8MRciKEEExulr.png" alt=" File Photo: Donald Trump and Joe Biden. Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump announced Friday (Feb 7) that he was revoking the security clearance of former president Joe Biden, ending his access to intelligence briefings after leaving office.
Delhi election vote counting begins: Postal ballots first, 699 candidates in fray
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Good morning! Here are the top news of the morning by WION. 

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, contesting against BJP’s Parvesh Verma in New Delhi, is trailing. In Kalkaji, Chief Minister Atishi is trailing behind BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri. Former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia is trailing in Jangpura. BJP’s Kapil Mishra is leading in Karawal Nagar. AAP’s Saurabh Bharadwaj is ahead in the Greater Kailash seat. Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources. Meanwhile, the passenger plane that went missing from Alaska's Nemo has been found and all 10 people aboard are believed to be dead. Click on the headlines to read LIVE | Delhi Elections Results 2025: BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri leads in early trends, Kejriwal trails The counting of votes for the high-stakes Delhi Assembly elections has begun. AAP is aiming for a third consecutive term and the BJP looking to break a two-decade-long drought in the National Capital. Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources. Missing Alaska plane found, all 10 aboard feared dead A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead. Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden US President Donald Trump announced Friday (Feb 7) that he was revoking the security clearance of former president Joe Biden, ending his access to intelligence briefings after leaving office. Delhi election vote counting begins: Postal ballots first, 699 candidates in fray

Morning news brief: Delhi election updates; Trudeau warns Canada over US threat, and more

US President Donald Trump announced Friday he will name himself to be chairman of the Kennedy Center, putting his aggressive rightwing stamp on Washington's premier cultural venue.
Trump broke the news in a post on his social media platform as he engages in a blizzard of policy changes upending the city and the country, attacking people, causes and policies he says are dangerously left-wing.
In a way, this appointment is another form of retribution, which Trump is seeking in his second term as he goes after perceived enemies: in his first term, from 2017 to 2021, the Republican regularly skipped the centre's yearly gala event because people in line to receive awards criticized him and said they would not show up if he did.
In his post, Trump suggested that the Kennedy Center, the stately white marble entertainment complex overlooking the Potomac River and named for the late president John F Kennedy, offered entertainment that did not reflect his own values.
Several members of the board will be replaced, including the current chairman, the billionaire philanthropist David Rubenstein, Trump wrote.
"I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture. We will soon announce a new Board, with an amazing Chairman, DONALD J. TRUMP!" the president said &nbsp;on Truth Social.
"Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth -- THIS WILL STOP. The Kennedy Center is an American Jewel, and must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation. For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!" Trump wrote.
Trump did not say what show he was referring to.
In December, the centre hosted concerts by a band called Bertha that featured some of its musicians dressed in drag.
The Kennedy Center is the home of the National Symphony Orchestra and also offers theatre, opera, comedy and other productions.
Rubenstein served as an advisor to the late president Jimmy Carter and also has ties to former president Joe Biden, who regularly attended the venue's top gala, the Kennedy Center Honors, every year.

Discover how President Trump plans to reshape Washington's cultural scene by appointing himself chairman of the Kennedy Center.

US President Donald Trump announced Friday he will name himself to be chairman of the Kennedy Center, putting his aggressive rightwing stamp on Washington's premier cultural venue. Trump broke the news in a post on his social media platform as he engages in a blizzard of policy changes upending the city and the country, attacking people, causes and policies he says are dangerously left-wing. In a way, this appointment is another form of retribution, which Trump is seeking in his second term as he goes after perceived enemies: in his first term, from 2017 to 2021, the Republican regularly skipped the centre's yearly gala event because people in line to receive awards criticized him and said they would not show up if he did. In his post, Trump suggested that the Kennedy Center, the stately white marble entertainment complex overlooking the Potomac River and named for the late president John F Kennedy, offered entertainment that did not reflect his own values. Several members of the board will be replaced, including the current chairman, the billionaire philanthropist David Rubenstein, Trump wrote. "I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture. We will soon announce a new Board, with an amazing Chairman, DONALD J. TRUMP!" the president said on Truth Social. "Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth -- THIS WILL STOP. The Kennedy Center is an American Jewel, and must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation. For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!" Trump wrote. Trump did not say what show he was referring to. In December, the centre hosted concerts by a band called Bertha that featured some of its musicians dressed in drag. The Kennedy Center is the home of the National Symphony Orchestra and also offers theatre, opera, comedy and other productions. Rubenstein served as an advisor to the late president Jimmy Carter and also has ties to former president Joe Biden, who regularly attended the venue's top gala, the Kennedy Center Honors, every year.

Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center

Hamas is set to release three Israeli hostages on Saturday in exchange for 183 prisoners held by Israel in the fifth exchange of a fragile Gaza ceasefire.
The exchange comes despite uproar in the region over a proposal by US President Donald Trump to clear out the Gaza Strip of its inhabitants and for the United States to take over the Palestinian territory.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed to AFP on Friday it had received a list of hostages for release from Gaza after Hamas published three names of captives to be freed.
The three men set to be released on Saturday are Eli Sharabi, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami, according to Hamas. Their names were confirmed by Netanyahu's office.
Former hostage Yarden Bibas, who was freed last week by Hamas militants in Gaza, on Friday urged Netanyahu to help bring back his wife and two children from the Palestinian territory.
"Prime Minister Netanyahu, I'm now addressing you with my own words... bring my family back, bring my friends back, bring everyone home," Bibas said in his first public message following his release.
Hamas previously said his wife Shiri and his two sons Ariel and Kfir -- the youngest hostages -- were dead, but Israel has not confirmed their deaths.
Netanyahu, who is in Washington, will "monitor this phase of the hostages' release from the control centre of the delegation in the US", the premier's office said in a separate statement.
<h2>'Now is the time' </h2>
The Hostage and Missing Families Forum urged the government on Friday to stick with the Gaza truce, even as Trump's comments sparked uproar across the Middle East and beyond.
"An entire nation demands to see the hostages return home," the Israeli campaign group said in a statement.
"Now is the time to ensure the agreement is completed -- until the very last one," it added.
Israel and Hamas have completed four swaps under the first stage of the ceasefire agreement.
Palestinian militants, led by Hamas, have so far freed 18 hostages in exchange for around 600 mostly Palestinian prisoners released from Israeli jails.
The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, aims to secure the release of 33 hostages during the first 42-day phase of the agreement.
Negotiations on the second stage of the ceasefire were set to begin on Monday, but there have been no details on the status of the talks.
The second stage aims to secure the release of more hostages and pave the way for a permanent end to the war, which began on October 7, 2023 with Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel.
During the attack, militants took 251 hostages to Gaza. Seventy-six remain in captivity, including 34 whom the Israeli military says are dead.
Israel's retaliation has killed at least 47,583 people in Gaza, the majority civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The United Nations considers the figures reliable.
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.

Discover the latest developments in the Gaza ceasefire as Israel and Hamas prepare for a fifth hostage-prisoner exchange, involving the release of three Israeli hostages.

Hamas is set to release three Israeli hostages on Saturday in exchange for 183 prisoners held by Israel in the fifth exchange of a fragile Gaza ceasefire. The exchange comes despite uproar in the region over a proposal by US President Donald Trump to clear out the Gaza Strip of its inhabitants and for the United States to take over the Palestinian territory. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed to AFP on Friday it had received a list of hostages for release from Gaza after Hamas published three names of captives to be freed. The three men set to be released on Saturday are Eli Sharabi, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami, according to Hamas. Their names were confirmed by Netanyahu's office. Former hostage Yarden Bibas, who was freed last week by Hamas militants in Gaza, on Friday urged Netanyahu to help bring back his wife and two children from the Palestinian territory. "Prime Minister Netanyahu, I'm now addressing you with my own words... bring my family back, bring my friends back, bring everyone home," Bibas said in his first public message following his release. Hamas previously said his wife Shiri and his two sons Ariel and Kfir -- the youngest hostages -- were dead, but Israel has not confirmed their deaths. Netanyahu, who is in Washington, will "monitor this phase of the hostages' release from the control centre of the delegation in the US", the premier's office said in a separate statement. 'Now is the time' The Hostage and Missing Families Forum urged the government on Friday to stick with the Gaza truce, even as Trump's comments sparked uproar across the Middle East and beyond. "An entire nation demands to see the hostages return home," the Israeli campaign group said in a statement. "Now is the time to ensure the agreement is completed -- until the very last one," it added. Israel and Hamas have completed four swaps under the first stage of the ceasefire agreement. Palestinian militants, led by Hamas, have so far freed 18 hostages in exchange for around 600 mostly Palestinian prisoners released from Israeli jails. The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, aims to secure the release of 33 hostages during the first 42-day phase of the agreement. Negotiations on the second stage of the ceasefire were set to begin on Monday, but there have been no details on the status of the talks. The second stage aims to secure the release of more hostages and pave the way for a permanent end to the war, which began on October 7, 2023 with Hamas's unprecedented attack on Israel. During the attack, militants took 251 hostages to Gaza. Seventy-six remain in captivity, including 34 whom the Israeli military says are dead. Israel's retaliation has killed at least 47,583 people in Gaza, the majority civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. The United Nations considers the figures reliable. 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.

Gaza ceasefire: Israel and Hamas to begin fifth hostage-prisoner exchange

A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead.
Three people were found inside the aircraft and were "reported to be deceased," while the other seven, including the pilot of the aircraft, are assumed to be dead and inaccessible due to the plane's condition. The plane was found approximately 55 km southeast of Nome.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-killed-as-us-military-plane-crashes-in-philippiness-maguindanao-del-sur-8697767">Four killed as US military plane crashes in Philippines's Maguindanao del Sur</a>
The US Coast Guard (USCG) posted on the social media platform X, "USCG has ended its search for the missing plane after the aircraft was located approx. 34 miles southeast of Nome. 3 individuals were found inside and reported to be deceased."&nbsp;
"The remaining 7 people are believed to be inside the aircraft but are currently inaccessible due to the condition of the plane. Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragic incident," it further added.&nbsp;
A Bering Air flight disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome on Thursday (Feb 6). Bering Air Flight 445 suddenly went missing midway in the afternoon while flying over the Bering Sea.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6vmzyqt-tsmq0n0d-0a2ty7f3">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> (1/2) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USCG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USCG</a> has ended its search for the missing plane after the aircraft was located approx. 34 miles southeast of Nome. 3 individuals were found inside and reported to be deceased. <a href="https://t.co/XndzBYHdCE">pic.twitter.com/XndzBYHdCE</a>
&mdash; USCGAlaska (@USCGAlaska) <a href="https://twitter.com/USCGAlaska/status/1888023010877260283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-contracted-plane-crashes-in-southern-philippines-four-killed-8697058">US military-contracted plane crashes in southern Philippines, four killed</a>
The flight was en route to Nome from Unalakleet city of Alaska.
The flight took off from Unalakleet at 2.37 pm (local time) and was last traced over the Norton Sound area of the Bering Sea at nearly 3.16 pm, as per the report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-to-mandate-bird-detection-systems-at-airports-following-jeju-air-crash-8695706">South Korea to mandate bird detection systems at airports following Jeju Air crash. Here's why</a>
<h2>Bad weather to blame?&nbsp;</h2>
The actual cause of the incident is still unknown but unfavourable weather has been reported in the area.&nbsp;
The Nome Fire Department has said that due to the weather and visibility, there is limited ability to conduct an aerial search operation for the flight.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;We ask the public to keep those who may be missing in their thoughts, but for safety reasons, please do not form independent search parties," the department said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead.

A commercial aircraft that went missing in Alaska with 10 people aboard on Thursday (Feb 6) was found on Friday with everyone presumed dead. Three people were found inside the aircraft and were "reported to be deceased," while the other seven, including the pilot of the aircraft, are assumed to be dead and inaccessible due to the plane's condition. The plane was found approximately 55 km southeast of Nome. Also read: Four killed as US military plane crashes in Philippines's Maguindanao del Sur The US Coast Guard (USCG) posted on the social media platform X, "USCG has ended its search for the missing plane after the aircraft was located approx. 34 miles southeast of Nome. 3 individuals were found inside and reported to be deceased." "The remaining 7 people are believed to be inside the aircraft but are currently inaccessible due to the condition of the plane. Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragic incident," it further added. A Bering Air flight disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome on Thursday (Feb 6). Bering Air Flight 445 suddenly went missing midway in the afternoon while flying over the Bering Sea. #UPDATE (1/2) #USCG has ended its search for the missing plane after the aircraft was located approx. 34 miles southeast of Nome. 3 individuals were found inside and reported to be deceased. pic.twitter.com/XndzBYHdCE — USCGAlaska (@USCGAlaska) February 8, 2025 Also read: US military-contracted plane crashes in southern Philippines, four killed The flight was en route to Nome from Unalakleet city of Alaska. The flight took off from Unalakleet at 2.37 pm (local time) and was last traced over the Norton Sound area of the Bering Sea at nearly 3.16 pm, as per the report. Also read: South Korea to mandate bird detection systems at airports following Jeju Air crash. Here's why Bad weather to blame? The actual cause of the incident is still unknown but unfavourable weather has been reported in the area. The Nome Fire Department has said that due to the weather and visibility, there is limited ability to conduct an aerial search operation for the flight. Also read: Oscars frontrunner Emilia Perez suffers awards season crash “We ask the public to keep those who may be missing in their thoughts, but for safety reasons, please do not form independent search parties," the department said. (With inputs from agencies)

Missing Alaska plane found, all 10 aboard feared dead

US President Donald Trump announced Friday (Feb 7) that he was revoking the security clearance of former president Joe Biden, ending his access to intelligence briefings after leaving office.
<h2>'JOE, YOU'RE FIRED'</h2>
Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to announce the revocation of security clearance and said, "There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-intention-to-absorb-canada-into-us-is-real-thing-8700778">Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'</a>
"Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden's Security Clearances, and stopping his daily Intelligence Briefings," he wrote.
Using his famous catchphrase from his former reality show 'The Apprentice' he added "JOE, YOU'RE FIRED."
<h2>'Tit for Tat'?</h2>
Traditionally, US Presidents are given the right to receive daily intelligence briefings even after the end of their term.
However, breaking the precedent in 2021, Biden revoked his predecessor Donald Trump's security clearance. At the time, Biden cited concerns over Trump&rsquo;s "erratic behaviour" and his alleged role in inciting the January 6 Capitol riots.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/back-to-plastic-trump-slams-bidens-paper-straws-to-sign-executive-order-next-week-undo-ban-8700621">'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban</a>
Now back in office, Trump's actions mirror Biden's. "He set this precedent in 2021 when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on National Security, a courtesy provided to former Presidents," said Trump.
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Turning the tables on the 46th President of the United States, Trump (the 45th and 47th POTUS) claimed that "even in his prime" Biden could not be trusted with sensitive information.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/close-it-down-trump-says-nothing-can-be-done-now-as-he-orders-usaid-to-cut-staff-from-10000-to-300-8700543">'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300</a>
"The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from 'poor memory' and, even in his 'prime,' could not be trusted with sensitive information. I will always protect our National Security &mdash; JOE, YOU'RE FIRED. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
Since returning to office, Trump has revoked the security clearances of several officials linked to the Biden administration.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Explore the implications of Trump's decision to revoke Biden's intelligence briefings, a move that mirrors Biden's own actions during his presidency.

US President Donald Trump announced Friday (Feb 7) that he was revoking the security clearance of former president Joe Biden, ending his access to intelligence briefings after leaving office. 'JOE, YOU'RE FIRED' Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to announce the revocation of security clearance and said, "There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information." Also read | Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' "Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden's Security Clearances, and stopping his daily Intelligence Briefings," he wrote. Using his famous catchphrase from his former reality show 'The Apprentice' he added "JOE, YOU'RE FIRED." 'Tit for Tat'? Traditionally, US Presidents are given the right to receive daily intelligence briefings even after the end of their term. However, breaking the precedent in 2021, Biden revoked his predecessor Donald Trump's security clearance. At the time, Biden cited concerns over Trump’s "erratic behaviour" and his alleged role in inciting the January 6 Capitol riots. Also read | 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban Now back in office, Trump's actions mirror Biden's. "He set this precedent in 2021 when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on National Security, a courtesy provided to former Presidents," said Trump. Turning the tables on the 46th President of the United States, Trump (the 45th and 47th POTUS) claimed that "even in his prime" Biden could not be trusted with sensitive information. Also read | 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300 "The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from 'poor memory' and, even in his 'prime,' could not be trusted with sensitive information. I will always protect our National Security — JOE, YOU'RE FIRED. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" Since returning to office, Trump has revoked the security clearances of several officials linked to the Biden administration. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden

Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources. Trudeau also suggested ways to deal with Trump's threats of imposing hefty tariffs on all Canadian imports.&nbsp;
Trump, on various occasions, has mocked Trudeau, calling him "governor" instead of prime minister and referring to Canada as the "51st state".&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-intercepts-people-attempting-to-cross-the-border-in-incredibly-cold-weather-8700643">Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather</a>
While speaking in Toronto at the opening of a one-day summit on the Canada-US economic relationship, the outgoing prime minister said that the country must work with the US to avoid tariffs. It was a closed-door session of business and labour leaders.&nbsp;
Trump withdrew tariffs earlier this week that would have destroyed Canada's economy. The US gave Canada a 30-day reprieve for additional talks.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-condemns-trumps-sanctions-says-it-seeks-to-harm-its-independent-impartial-judicial-work-8700398">ICC condemns Trump's sanctions, says it seeks to 'harm its independent, impartial judicial work'</a>&nbsp;
As quoted by media reports, Trudeau told attendees, "I suggest that not only does the Trump administration know how many critical minerals we have but that may be even why they keep talking about absorbing us and making us the 51st state."&nbsp;
"They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those. But Mr Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/back-to-plastic-trump-slams-bidens-paper-straws-to-sign-executive-order-next-week-undo-ban-8700621">'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban&nbsp;</a>
<h2>'...it is a real thing'&nbsp;</h2>
So far, there aren't any official remarks on Trudeau's comments, which were first reported by the Toronto Star. It said that the comments were mistakenly carried by a loudspeaker. News agency Reuters reported that the government source confirmed that the Star's account of the remarks was accurate.&nbsp;
"They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those," the Star quoted Trudeau as saying.&nbsp;
"But Mr. Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country. And it is a real thing."&nbsp;
While responding to reporters about Trudeau's comments, Trade Minister Anita Anand said Canada was resolved to resist any US expansionism.&nbsp;
"There will be no messing with the 49th parallel, period," Anand said as she referred to the US-Canadian border.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Justin Trudeau warns that Donald Trump's plan to absorb Canada into the US is a real threat, aiming to acquire Canada's rich natural resources amid economic tensions.

Justin Trudeau has warned that Donald Trump's intention to absorb Canada into the United States is a "real thing" as he aims to acquire the country's rich natural resources. Trudeau also suggested ways to deal with Trump's threats of imposing hefty tariffs on all Canadian imports. Trump, on various occasions, has mocked Trudeau, calling him "governor" instead of prime minister and referring to Canada as the "51st state". Also read: Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather While speaking in Toronto at the opening of a one-day summit on the Canada-US economic relationship, the outgoing prime minister said that the country must work with the US to avoid tariffs. It was a closed-door session of business and labour leaders. Trump withdrew tariffs earlier this week that would have destroyed Canada's economy. The US gave Canada a 30-day reprieve for additional talks. Also read: ICC condemns Trump's sanctions, says it seeks to 'harm its independent, impartial judicial work' As quoted by media reports, Trudeau told attendees, "I suggest that not only does the Trump administration know how many critical minerals we have but that may be even why they keep talking about absorbing us and making us the 51st state." "They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those. But Mr Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country," he added. Also read: 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban '...it is a real thing' So far, there aren't any official remarks on Trudeau's comments, which were first reported by the Toronto Star. It said that the comments were mistakenly carried by a loudspeaker. News agency Reuters reported that the government source confirmed that the Star's account of the remarks was accurate. "They're very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those," the Star quoted Trudeau as saying. "But Mr. Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country. And it is a real thing." While responding to reporters about Trudeau's comments, Trade Minister Anita Anand said Canada was resolved to resist any US expansionism. "There will be no messing with the 49th parallel, period," Anand said as she referred to the US-Canadian border. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'

Over a dozen individuals have been apprehended attempting to cross into Canada, highlighting the dangers of the US-Canada border, particularly during the harsh winter season.&nbsp;
In Alberta, police recently stopped two groups trying to enter Canada illegally, including one group with five children who were inadequately prepared for the extreme cold, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -30C (-22F).
Also read | 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban
<h2 dir="ltr">Group bound for Alberta&nbsp;</h2>
Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland told reporters in Edmonton that nine people from Venezuela were found trudging through the snow and dragging suitcases. The group was bound for Alberta and made the journey in &ldquo;incredibly cold&rdquo; weather.&nbsp;
A second group, composed of six adults from Jordan, Sudan, Chad and Mauritius, was found in a forest near Manitoba&rsquo;s border with the US after an RCMP plane using thermal cameras detected them. Neither group had clothing suitable for the frigid conditions.
Also read | 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300
<h2 dir="ltr">Gujarat family froze to death on Canadian border</h2>
Moreland speculated that the people may have succumbed to a "heartbreaking situation" comparable to the freezing death of the Patel family, an Indian couple who died with their infant and 11-year-old near the border in 2022.&nbsp;
Later, in 2024, US authorities arrested an Indian-origin person in Chicago, a key suspect in a 2022 human trafficking case involving the death of the Patel family. Harshkumar Patel was taken into custody at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
Harshkumar was charged with the criminal offence of "transportation of illegal alien and conspiracy to bring and attempt to bring an illegal alien to the United States".
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Over a dozen people were detained while trying to cross into Canada, underscoring the perilous conditions at the US-Canada border, especially in winter's harsh grip.

Over a dozen individuals have been apprehended attempting to cross into Canada, highlighting the dangers of the US-Canada border, particularly during the harsh winter season. In Alberta, police recently stopped two groups trying to enter Canada illegally, including one group with five children who were inadequately prepared for the extreme cold, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -30C (-22F). Also read | 'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump slams Biden's paper straws, to sign executive order next week to undo ban Group bound for Alberta Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland told reporters in Edmonton that nine people from Venezuela were found trudging through the snow and dragging suitcases. The group was bound for Alberta and made the journey in “incredibly cold” weather. A second group, composed of six adults from Jordan, Sudan, Chad and Mauritius, was found in a forest near Manitoba’s border with the US after an RCMP plane using thermal cameras detected them. Neither group had clothing suitable for the frigid conditions. Also read | 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300 Gujarat family froze to death on Canadian border Moreland speculated that the people may have succumbed to a "heartbreaking situation" comparable to the freezing death of the Patel family, an Indian couple who died with their infant and 11-year-old near the border in 2022. Later, in 2024, US authorities arrested an Indian-origin person in Chicago, a key suspect in a 2022 human trafficking case involving the death of the Patel family. Harshkumar Patel was taken into custody at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Harshkumar was charged with the criminal offence of "transportation of illegal alien and conspiracy to bring and attempt to bring an illegal alien to the United States". (With inputs from agencies)

Canada intercepts people attempting to cross the border in 'incredibly cold' weather

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that he would sign an executive order next week to undo efforts by former President Joe Biden to push for the use of paper straws instead of plastic straws.
Trump said that he would end the "ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws".
In a post on Truth Social, the US president said, "I will be signing an Executive Order next week ending the ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws, which don&rsquo;t work. BACK TO PLASTIC!."&nbsp;
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kamala-harris-divorce-doug-emhoff-plastic-ban-hypocrite-kamala-plstic-bags-8650853" rel="dofollow">'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban</a>
Biden announced a target to eliminate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/single-use-plastics" rel="dofollow">single-use plastic</a> items like drinking straws by 2035 in government departments.&nbsp;
This move is the latest on environmental issues by the Republican president. Notably, Trump pulled out of the Paris climate change agreement soon after his inauguration for a second term.&nbsp;
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<h2>Musk reacts</h2>
American billionaire Elon Musk also shared Trump's Truth Social post, calling him the "greatest President ever".&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Greatest President ever! <a href="https://t.co/U8BuPVwSwd">pic.twitter.com/U8BuPVwSwd</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1887886625318818292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier during a campaign rally for the 2020 elections, Trump had shown his criticism of the growing trend of paper drinking straws.&nbsp;
"They want to ban straws. Has anyone tried those paper straws? They're not working too good," he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-ban-single-use-plastics-in-cafes-and-restaurants-by-2030-696622" rel="dofollow">EU to ban single-use plastic in cafes and restaurants by 2030</a>
"It disintegrates as you drink it, and if you have a nice tie like this tie, you've got no choice," Trump added.&nbsp;
Moreover, his campaign team has also sold branded plastic straws with the slogan "Liberal paper straws don't work."
In 2019, Trump's campaign sold red plastic straws labelled with &ldquo;Trump&rdquo; as an alternative to the &ldquo;liberal&rdquo; paper straws, which he claimed were ineffective.&nbsp;
Notably, Trump is expected to place over 160 environmental justice employees on paid leave as part of broader government restructuring efforts.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Former US President Joe Biden announced a target to eliminate single-use plastic utensils like drinking straws by 2035 in government departments. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that he would sign an executive order next week to undo efforts by former President Joe Biden to push for the use of paper straws instead of plastic straws. Trump said that he would end the "ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws". In a post on Truth Social, the US president said, "I will be signing an Executive Order next week ending the ridiculous Biden push for Paper Straws, which don’t work. BACK TO PLASTIC!." Also read: 'Hypocrite': Kamala Harris spotted shopping with husband, carrying plastic bags after supporting ban Biden announced a target to eliminate single-use plastic items like drinking straws by 2035 in government departments. This move is the latest on environmental issues by the Republican president. Notably, Trump pulled out of the Paris climate change agreement soon after his inauguration for a second term. Also read: Increase of plastic can cause autism? Here’s what the latest study determined Musk reacts American billionaire Elon Musk also shared Trump's Truth Social post, calling him the "greatest President ever". Greatest President ever! pic.twitter.com/U8BuPVwSwd — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 7, 2025 Earlier during a campaign rally for the 2020 elections, Trump had shown his criticism of the growing trend of paper drinking straws. "They want to ban straws. Has anyone tried those paper straws? They're not working too good," he said. Also read: EU to ban single-use plastic in cafes and restaurants by 2030 "It disintegrates as you drink it, and if you have a nice tie like this tie, you've got no choice," Trump added. Moreover, his campaign team has also sold branded plastic straws with the slogan "Liberal paper straws don't work." In 2019, Trump's campaign sold red plastic straws labelled with “Trump” as an alternative to the “liberal” paper straws, which he claimed were ineffective. Notably, Trump is expected to place over 160 environmental justice employees on paid leave as part of broader government restructuring efforts. (With inputs from agencies)

'BACK TO PLASTIC': Trump to sign executive order to end Biden's push for paper straws

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that the USAID is driving the "radical left" crazy but they can not do anything about it. He stressed that the "corruption" is at levels rarely seen before".&nbsp;
Trump took to Truth Social and posted, "USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-condoms-worth-15mn-for-taliban-to-1mn-for-lgbtq-propaganda-shocking-spending-by-usaid-under-biden-8698860" rel="dofollow">From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden</a>
He further stressed to "close it down".&nbsp;
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The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid Trump's move.&nbsp;
Some of the essential staff are already set to be placed on administration leave at midnight on Friday. According to an online notice, a plan is being prepared for return travel and the termination of non-essential contractors.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-places-usaid-global-staff-on-leave-orders-them-to-return-home-8694295" rel="dofollow">Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home</a>
Amid this cut on USAID, hundreds of programmes have already been frozen in countries worldwide.&nbsp;
Moreover, the US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging &ldquo;USAID is being run by radical lunatics", vowing he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. It included allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban for funding LGBTQ propaganda.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
The critics reacted to the foreign aid cuts, saying that it could have dire consequences for global aid efforts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s outrageous,&rdquo; said J Brian Atwood, who led USAID for over six years. He warned that gutting the agency would effectively dismantle a program that has saved millions of lives. &ldquo;A lot of people will not survive,&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790" rel="dofollow">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid US President Donald Trump's move. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 7) said that the USAID is driving the "radical left" crazy but they can not do anything about it. He stressed that the "corruption" is at levels rarely seen before". Trump took to Truth Social and posted, "USAID is driving the radical left crazy, and there is nothing they can do about it because the way in which the money has been spent, so much of it fraudulently, is totally unexplainable." Also read: From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden He further stressed to "close it down". The US aid agency could see its staff reduced from about 10,000 workers to around 300 workers amid Trump's move. Some of the essential staff are already set to be placed on administration leave at midnight on Friday. According to an online notice, a plan is being prepared for return travel and the termination of non-essential contractors. Also read: Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home Amid this cut on USAID, hundreds of programmes have already been frozen in countries worldwide. Moreover, the US president signed an executive order to pause foreign assistance by the agency for 90 days, alleging “USAID is being run by radical lunatics", vowing he would end the "waste, fraud and abuse" by the agency. Meanwhile, in a video on the social media platform YouTube, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Brian Mast exposed a list of shocking spending by the agency. It included allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban for funding LGBTQ propaganda. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director The critics reacted to the foreign aid cuts, saying that it could have dire consequences for global aid efforts. “That’s outrageous,” said J Brian Atwood, who led USAID for over six years. He warned that gutting the agency would effectively dismantle a program that has saved millions of lives. “A lot of people will not survive,” Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk (With inputs from agencies)

'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300

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