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American billionaire Elon Musk on Friday posted a poll on his social media X, asking users if he should rehire the staffer at Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) who resigned over his social media posts advocating for racism and eugenics.&nbsp;
Tesla CEO Musk posted, "Bring back @DOGE staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bring back <a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DOGE</a> staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym?
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1887867644814020902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
The post had nearly 2.9 million views and more than 2,32,000 votes. Notably, more than 80 per cent of users who answered the poll, replied "yes".&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>
25-year-old Marko Elez resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians.&nbsp;
Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy." He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-team-has-read-only-access-to-payments-data-says-us-treasury-department-8694317" rel="dofollow">Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department</a>
In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity.&nbsp;
In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate".&nbsp;
Elez also had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool", according to the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-delays-deadline-for-elon-musks-resign-or-be-fired-buyout-scheme-for-federal-employees-8697881" rel="dofollow">US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees</a>
On Thursday, US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation.&nbsp;
Moreover, he also commented on the Israel-Hamas conflict, saying, &ldquo;I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.&rdquo;
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>
However, it is not clear whether Musk will reinstate Elez based on the outcome of the X poll.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The post had nearly 2.9 million views and more than 2,32,000 votes. Notably, more than 80 per cent of users who answered the poll, replied "yes". 

American billionaire Elon Musk on Friday posted a poll on his social media X, asking users if he should rehire the staffer at Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) who resigned over his social media posts advocating for racism and eugenics. Tesla CEO Musk posted, "Bring back @DOGE staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym?” Bring back @DOGE staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym? — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 7, 2025 The post had nearly 2.9 million views and more than 2,32,000 votes. Notably, more than 80 per cent of users who answered the poll, replied "yes". Also read: 'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online 25-year-old Marko Elez resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians. Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy." He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Also read: Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity. In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate". Elez also had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool", according to the Wall Street Journal. Also read: US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees On Thursday, US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation. Moreover, he also commented on the Israel-Hamas conflict, saying, “I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.” Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge However, it is not clear whether Musk will reinstate Elez based on the outcome of the X poll. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets

Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 7) slammed Bangladesh's move to summon Indian envoy, saying that such statements made by Dhaka authorities portray India "negatively".
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on his official visit to the United States on February 12, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday.
Click on the headlines to read more
'India has no role to play': MEA rules out involvement in Hasina's speech, summons Bangladesh envoy
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/K0hkZkphBi4O2EGDWNeV.png" alt=" Sheikh Hasina Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 7) slammed Bangladesh's move to summon Indian envoy, saying that such statements made by Dhaka authorities portray India "negatively", adding that India has no role to play in Sheikh Hasina's speech.
PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/Q6ohUkeaT5OrIe1dUbfp.png" alt=" Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on his official visit to the United States on February 12, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday.
Kejriwal alleges EC 'refused' to upload voters' data, launches party's own website for 'transparency'
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/rTwP6R8HISz4tg3yuNhj.png" alt=" AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal Photograph: (PTI ) ">
A day before the Delhi Assembly election result, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the Election Commission refused to upload data on the number of votes polled in each assembly constituency in the national capital despite several requests.
Who is Mohini Mohan Dutta? Mystery man to inherit Ratan Tata's USD 57 million will
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/10/10/459408-ns.png" alt=" Late business tycoon Ratan Tata ">
Late business tycoon Ratan Tata left nearly a third of his residual assets for Mohini Mohan Dutta, a Jamshedpur-based entrepreneur, Indian media outlet Economic Times reported.
UK orders Apple to create back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts: Report
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/04/fmwZLrvmaFXSaEjhzfsk.png" alt=" Representative image Photograph: (Reuters ) ">
The UK security officials have demanded Apple to create a back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts and retrieve all content uploaded by the Apple user to the cloud, people familiar with the matter told The Washington Post.
British parents sue TikTok over children's death over THIS reason
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/26/Yv1RoCYNAZqO8BibOKKJ.png" alt=" File photo of the TikTok logo. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The parents of four British teenagers have sued TikTok over the deaths of their children. They believe their children died after taking part in viral trends that circulated on the video-sharing platform in 2022.
'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/ra6itYG1xg8kxtQOFbZZ.jpg" alt=" Kshama Sawant Photograph: (X/@cmkshama) ">
A group of people trespassed the Indian Consulate in Seattle after which the authorities were compelled to take action against the intruders, the consulate said on Friday (Feb 7).
Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/A0ZgKlzLKecHynMxwx4w.png" alt=" 'Some of these aliens': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws Photograph: (AFP) ">
A federal judge in Seattle on Thursday (Feb 6) indefinitely blocked US President Donald Trump's executive order that seeks to end birthright citizenship. This is a huge relief for Indian students and professionals living in the United States on visas and awaiting green cards.
SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Steve Smith equals Joe Root, Rahul Dravid's record for most Test tons
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/TDWJn9uBQ890PEBenzUj.png" alt=" SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Steve Smith equals Joe Root, Rahul Dravid's record for most Test tons Photograph: (AFP) ">
Former Australia captain Steve Smith is ageing like a fine wine as he scored a ton in the ongoing second Test match against Sri Lanka on Friday (Feb 7). The veteran batter got to his 36th Test equalling Joe Root and Rahul Dravid&rsquo;s record for most hundreds in the format. His dominant display has seen Australia establish a first-innings lead in the ongoing Galle Test.
Loveyapa Review: Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor's film is a love-hate situationship drama
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/10/DhEPfF9OmwAVXxgm9edm.png" alt=" Still from the film Loveyapa Photograph: (X) ">
Never judge a book by its cover - A quote that suits Advait Chandan's Loveyapa. The movie, which is a big screen debut of star kids Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Kapoor, had at one point found itself entangled in the nepo kids debate. Putting that aside, let's talk about the film &ndash; it's of the Gen Z, for the Gen Z, and by Gen Z and millennials.

Stay informed with our selection of the top global news stories, delivering the most impactful and significant updates from around the world in one comprehensive list.

Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 7) slammed Bangladesh's move to summon Indian envoy, saying that such statements made by Dhaka authorities portray India "negatively". Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on his official visit to the United States on February 12, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday. Click on the headlines to read more 'India has no role to play': MEA rules out involvement in Hasina's speech, summons Bangladesh envoy Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 7) slammed Bangladesh's move to summon Indian envoy, saying that such statements made by Dhaka authorities portray India "negatively", adding that India has no role to play in Sheikh Hasina's speech. PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on his official visit to the United States on February 12, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday. Kejriwal alleges EC 'refused' to upload voters' data, launches party's own website for 'transparency' A day before the Delhi Assembly election result, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal alleged that the Election Commission refused to upload data on the number of votes polled in each assembly constituency in the national capital despite several requests. Who is Mohini Mohan Dutta? Mystery man to inherit Ratan Tata's USD 57 million will Late business tycoon Ratan Tata left nearly a third of his residual assets for Mohini Mohan Dutta, a Jamshedpur-based entrepreneur, Indian media outlet Economic Times reported. UK orders Apple to create back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts: Report The UK security officials have demanded Apple to create a back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts and retrieve all content uploaded by the Apple user to the cloud, people familiar with the matter told The Washington Post. British parents sue TikTok over children's death over THIS reason The parents of four British teenagers have sued TikTok over the deaths of their children. They believe their children died after taking part in viral trends that circulated on the video-sharing platform in 2022. 'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle A group of people trespassed the Indian Consulate in Seattle after which the authorities were compelled to take action against the intruders, the consulate said on Friday (Feb 7). Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order A federal judge in Seattle on Thursday (Feb 6) indefinitely blocked US President Donald Trump's executive order that seeks to end birthright citizenship. This is a huge relief for Indian students and professionals living in the United States on visas and awaiting green cards. SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Steve Smith equals Joe Root, Rahul Dravid's record for most Test tons Former Australia captain Steve Smith is ageing like a fine wine as he scored a ton in the ongoing second Test match against Sri Lanka on Friday (Feb 7). The veteran batter got to his 36th Test equalling Joe Root and Rahul Dravid’s record for most hundreds in the format. His dominant display has seen Australia establish a first-innings lead in the ongoing Galle Test. Loveyapa Review: Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor's film is a love-hate situationship drama Never judge a book by its cover - A quote that suits Advait Chandan's Loveyapa. The movie, which is a big screen debut of star kids Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Kapoor, had at one point found itself entangled in the nepo kids debate. Putting that aside, let's talk about the film – it's of the Gen Z, for the Gen Z, and by Gen Z and millennials.

Top 10 world news: India summons Bangladesh envoy, PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13 and more

The International Criminal Court slammed sanctions Friday slapped by US President Donald Trump over its probes targeting America and Israel and pledged to press on with its aim to fight for "justice and hope" around the world.
The United Nations and the European Union also urged Trump on Friday to reverse the decision ordering asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees and their family members, along with anyone deemed to have helped the court's investigations.
The sanctions could impact the court's technical and IT operations, including evidence gathering. There are fears victims of alleged atrocities may hesitate to come forward.
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" rel="dofollow">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>
Trump signed an executive order Thursday saying the court in The Hague had "abused its power" by issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who held talks with the US president on Tuesday.
The ICC said the move sought to "harm its independent and impartial judicial work".
"The Court stands firmly by its personnel and pledges to continue providing justice and hope to millions of innocent victims of atrocities across the world," it said.&nbsp;
The United Nations said it deeply regretted Trump's decision and urged him to reverse the move.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-sanctioning-icc-for-targeting-us-israel-8697513" rel="dofollow">Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel</a>
<h2>'Undermines' justice system&nbsp;</h2>
"The court should be fully able to undertake its independent work -- where a state is unwilling or unable genuinely to carry out the investigation or prosecution," UN human rights office OHCHR spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told AFP in an email.
"The rule of law remains essential to our collective peace and security. Seeking accountability globally makes the world a safer place for everyone."
Antonio Costa, who heads the European Council representing the EU's 27 member states, wrote on X that the move "undermines the international criminal justice system".
The European Commission separately expressed "regret", stressing the ICC's "key importance in upholding international criminal justice and the fight against impunity."
The executive order risks "affecting ongoing investigations and proceedings, including as regards Ukraine, impacting years of efforts to ensure accountability around the world," said a commission spokesman.
The names of the individuals affected by the sanctions were not immediately released, but previous US sanctions under Trump had targeted the court's prosecutor.
Trump's order said the tribunal had engaged in "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel," referring to ICC probes into alleged war crimes by US service members in Afghanistan and Israeli troops in Gaza.
Israel's foreign minister applauded Trump, calling the court's actions against Israel illegitimate.
"I strongly commend @POTUS President Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the so-called 'international criminal court'," Gideon Saar wrote on X, adding that the ICC's actions were "immoral and have no legal basis".
Neither the United States nor Israel are members of the court.
<h2>'Criminal responsibility'&nbsp;</h2>
Following a request by ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, judges issued arrest warrants on November 21 for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas's military chief Mohammed Deif -- whom Israel says is dead.
The court said it had found "reasonable grounds" to believe Netanyahu and Gallant bore "criminal responsibility" for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare during the Gaza war, as well as the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.
Netanyahu has accused the court of anti-Semitism.
During his first term, Trump imposed financial sanctions and a visa ban on the ICC's then prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, and other senior officials and staff in 2020.&nbsp;
His administration made the move after Gambian-born Bensouda launched an investigation into allegations of war crimes against US soldiers in Afghanistan.
While his order at the time did not name Israel, Trump administration officials said they were also angered by Bensouda's opening of a probe into the situation in the Palestinian territories in 2019.
President Joe Biden lifted the sanctions soon after taking office in 2021.
Prosecutor Khan later effectively dropped the US from the Afghan investigation and focused on the Taliban instead. &nbsp;
Biden strongly condemned the "outrageous" warrant against Netanyahu in November.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The sanctions could impact the court's technical and IT operations, including evidence gathering. There are fears victims of alleged atrocities may hesitate to come forward.

The International Criminal Court slammed sanctions Friday slapped by US President Donald Trump over its probes targeting America and Israel and pledged to press on with its aim to fight for "justice and hope" around the world. The United Nations and the European Union also urged Trump on Friday to reverse the decision ordering asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees and their family members, along with anyone deemed to have helped the court's investigations. The sanctions could impact the court's technical and IT operations, including evidence gathering. There are fears victims of alleged atrocities may hesitate to come forward. Also read: Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu Trump signed an executive order Thursday saying the court in The Hague had "abused its power" by issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who held talks with the US president on Tuesday. The ICC said the move sought to "harm its independent and impartial judicial work". "The Court stands firmly by its personnel and pledges to continue providing justice and hope to millions of innocent victims of atrocities across the world," it said. The United Nations said it deeply regretted Trump's decision and urged him to reverse the move. Also read: Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel 'Undermines' justice system "The court should be fully able to undertake its independent work -- where a state is unwilling or unable genuinely to carry out the investigation or prosecution," UN human rights office OHCHR spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told AFP in an email. "The rule of law remains essential to our collective peace and security. Seeking accountability globally makes the world a safer place for everyone." Antonio Costa, who heads the European Council representing the EU's 27 member states, wrote on X that the move "undermines the international criminal justice system". The European Commission separately expressed "regret", stressing the ICC's "key importance in upholding international criminal justice and the fight against impunity." The executive order risks "affecting ongoing investigations and proceedings, including as regards Ukraine, impacting years of efforts to ensure accountability around the world," said a commission spokesman. The names of the individuals affected by the sanctions were not immediately released, but previous US sanctions under Trump had targeted the court's prosecutor. Trump's order said the tribunal had engaged in "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel," referring to ICC probes into alleged war crimes by US service members in Afghanistan and Israeli troops in Gaza. Israel's foreign minister applauded Trump, calling the court's actions against Israel illegitimate. "I strongly commend @POTUS President Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the so-called 'international criminal court'," Gideon Saar wrote on X, adding that the ICC's actions were "immoral and have no legal basis". Neither the United States nor Israel are members of the court. 'Criminal responsibility' Following a request by ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, judges issued arrest warrants on November 21 for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas's military chief Mohammed Deif -- whom Israel says is dead. The court said it had found "reasonable grounds" to believe Netanyahu and Gallant bore "criminal responsibility" for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare during the Gaza war, as well as the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts. Netanyahu has accused the court of anti-Semitism. During his first term, Trump imposed financial sanctions and a visa ban on the ICC's then prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, and other senior officials and staff in 2020. His administration made the move after Gambian-born Bensouda launched an investigation into allegations of war crimes against US soldiers in Afghanistan. While his order at the time did not name Israel, Trump administration officials said they were also angered by Bensouda's opening of a probe into the situation in the Palestinian territories in 2019. President Joe Biden lifted the sanctions soon after taking office in 2021. Prosecutor Khan later effectively dropped the US from the Afghan investigation and focused on the Taliban instead. Biden strongly condemned the "outrageous" warrant against Netanyahu in November. 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.

ICC condemns Trump's sanctions, says it seeks to 'harm its independent, impartial judicial work'

The parents of four British teenagers have sued TikTok over the deaths of their children. TheyZ, believe their children died after taking part in viral trends that circulated on the video-sharing platform in 2022.
The lawsuit claims Isaac Kenevan, Archie Battersbee, Julian "Jools" Sweeney and Maia Walsh died while attempting the so-called "blackout challenge".
It accuses TikTok of pushing dangerous pranks and challenge videos to children to boost engagement time on the platform.
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">'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Social Media Victims Law Centre filed lawsuit against ByteDance</h2>
The US-based Social Media Victims Law Centre (SMVLC), said it had filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the video-sharing platform and its parent firm, ByteDance, on behalf of the families.
TikTok has been blocking searches for a specific challenge since 2020, redirecting users to its Safety Centre instead.&nbsp;
According to the firm, the platform's policy prohibits hazardous content and challenges, ensuring a safer environment for its users.
The lawsuit has been filed in Delaware Superior Court on behalf of four families claiming that the deaths were "the foreseeable result of ByteDance's engineered addiction-by-design and programming decisions", which were "aimed at pushing children into maximizing their engagement with TikTok by any means necessary".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-halts-trumps-citizenship-order-indefinitely-indian-nationals-in-us-get-reprieve-8699456">Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order</a>
It accuses ByteDance of having "created harmful dependencies in each child" through its design and "flooded them with a seemingly endless stream of harms".
"These were not harms the children searched for or wanted to see when their use of TikTok began," it claims.
<h2 dir="ltr">Ellen Roome advocates for &ldquo;Jools&rsquo; Law&rdquo;</h2>
Ellen Roome, who believes her 14-year-old son Jools died after participating in a TikTok challenge, is advocating for "Jools' Law".&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-visit-us-on-feb-12-13-will-hold-talks-with-president-trump-8699757">PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump</a>
This proposed law would allow parents to access their deceased child's social media accounts. Ellen warns that TikTok is not just about "silly dances and challenges" but also contains harmful content, emphasising the importance of parental awareness and involvement.&nbsp;
She advises parents to "get their children to show them their phone" to better understand their online activities.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: British parents file lawsuits against TikTok, claiming the platform's viral trends led to the tragic deaths of their teenagers in, sparking safety concerns.

The parents of four British teenagers have sued TikTok over the deaths of their children. TheyZ, believe their children died after taking part in viral trends that circulated on the video-sharing platform in 2022. The lawsuit claims Isaac Kenevan, Archie Battersbee, Julian "Jools" Sweeney and Maia Walsh died while attempting the so-called "blackout challenge". It accuses TikTok of pushing dangerous pranks and challenge videos to children to boost engagement time on the platform. Also read | 'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle Social Media Victims Law Centre filed lawsuit against ByteDance The US-based Social Media Victims Law Centre (SMVLC), said it had filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the video-sharing platform and its parent firm, ByteDance, on behalf of the families. TikTok has been blocking searches for a specific challenge since 2020, redirecting users to its Safety Centre instead. According to the firm, the platform's policy prohibits hazardous content and challenges, ensuring a safer environment for its users. The lawsuit has been filed in Delaware Superior Court on behalf of four families claiming that the deaths were "the foreseeable result of ByteDance's engineered addiction-by-design and programming decisions", which were "aimed at pushing children into maximizing their engagement with TikTok by any means necessary". Also read | Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order It accuses ByteDance of having "created harmful dependencies in each child" through its design and "flooded them with a seemingly endless stream of harms". "These were not harms the children searched for or wanted to see when their use of TikTok began," it claims. Ellen Roome advocates for “Jools’ Law” Ellen Roome, who believes her 14-year-old son Jools died after participating in a TikTok challenge, is advocating for "Jools' Law". Also read | PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump This proposed law would allow parents to access their deceased child's social media accounts. Ellen warns that TikTok is not just about "silly dances and challenges" but also contains harmful content, emphasising the importance of parental awareness and involvement. She advises parents to "get their children to show them their phone" to better understand their online activities. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok sued by UK teen parents over THIS reason

Saudi Arabia has implemented changes to its visa policy, effective from February 1, 2025, restricting travellers from 14 countries to single-entry visas. The measure aims to prevent unauthorised Hajj pilgrims from entering the country on long-term visit visas.
The new restrictions apply to travellers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. As part of this policy shift, Saudi authorities have suspended one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits for travellers from these nations.
<h2 class="p2">Key Changes in Visa Regulations</h2>
Under the revised rules, visitors from the 14 affected countries can only obtain single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days. The maximum duration of stay has also been set at 30 days. However, Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unaffected by these restrictions.
Saudi officials have stated that the decision follows concerns over the misuse of multiple-entry visas. Some travellers had reportedly entered the country on long-term visit visas and remained beyond their permitted stay to work or participate in Hajj without proper authorisation.
<h2 class="p2">Reason for the Policy Change</h2>
Saudi Arabia enforces strict regulations on Hajj participation, allocating specific quotas to each country. In recent years, concerns over overcrowding have intensified due to unregistered pilgrims attending the pilgrimage. The issue became particularly critical in 2024 when over 1,200 pilgrims died due to extreme heat and overcrowding. Authorities identified unauthorised pilgrims as a contributing factor to the crisis.
By limiting visa access, the Saudi government aims to ensure that only registered and authorised pilgrims participate in Hajj, reducing the risks associated with overcrowding.
Officials have described the suspension of multiple-entry visas as a temporary measure. However, no timeline has been provided for a review of the decision. The government plans to assess the impact of the new visa policy before considering any further changes.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/9-indians-killed-in-road-accident-in-saudi-arabia-mea-sets-up-helpline-8668225">9 Indians killed in road accident in Saudi Arabia, MEA sets up helpline</a>
<h2 class="p2">Advice for Travellers</h2>
Travellers from the affected countries are advised to apply for single-entry visas in advance and ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s revised immigration policies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasised that adhering to the new rules will help avoid disruptions or penalties during travel.

Under the revised rules, visitors from the 14 affected countries can only obtain single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days

Saudi Arabia has implemented changes to its visa policy, effective from February 1, 2025, restricting travellers from 14 countries to single-entry visas. The measure aims to prevent unauthorised Hajj pilgrims from entering the country on long-term visit visas. The new restrictions apply to travellers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. As part of this policy shift, Saudi authorities have suspended one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits for travellers from these nations. Key Changes in Visa Regulations Under the revised rules, visitors from the 14 affected countries can only obtain single-entry visas with a validity of 30 days. The maximum duration of stay has also been set at 30 days. However, Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, and residency visas remain unaffected by these restrictions. Saudi officials have stated that the decision follows concerns over the misuse of multiple-entry visas. Some travellers had reportedly entered the country on long-term visit visas and remained beyond their permitted stay to work or participate in Hajj without proper authorisation. Reason for the Policy Change Saudi Arabia enforces strict regulations on Hajj participation, allocating specific quotas to each country. In recent years, concerns over overcrowding have intensified due to unregistered pilgrims attending the pilgrimage. The issue became particularly critical in 2024 when over 1,200 pilgrims died due to extreme heat and overcrowding. Authorities identified unauthorised pilgrims as a contributing factor to the crisis. By limiting visa access, the Saudi government aims to ensure that only registered and authorised pilgrims participate in Hajj, reducing the risks associated with overcrowding. Officials have described the suspension of multiple-entry visas as a temporary measure. However, no timeline has been provided for a review of the decision. The government plans to assess the impact of the new visa policy before considering any further changes. Also read: 9 Indians killed in road accident in Saudi Arabia, MEA sets up helpline Advice for Travellers Travellers from the affected countries are advised to apply for single-entry visas in advance and ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s revised immigration policies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasised that adhering to the new rules will help avoid disruptions or penalties during travel.

'India, Iraq, Pakistan and more': Saudi Arabia introduces new visa rules to prevent unauthorised Hajj pilgrimage

A group of people trespassed the Indian Consulate in Seattle after which the authorities were compelled to take action against the intruders, the consulate said on Friday (Feb 7).
The consulate posted on X that the intruders refused to leave the premises even after repeated requests and engaged in aggressive and threatening behaviour with their staff members.
"Today, the Consulate was forced to deal with a law and order situation arising from the unauthorized entry by certain individuals into the Consulate premises after office hours. Despite repeated requests, these individuals refused to leave the Consulate premises and engaged in aggressive and threatening behaviour with the Consulate staff," the post read.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, the Consulate was forced to deal with a law and order situation arising from the unauthorized entry by certain individuals into the Consulate premises after office hours. Despite repeated requests, these individuals refused to leave the Consulate premises and engaged in&hellip;
&mdash; India In Seattle (@IndiainSeattle) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSeattle/status/1887721015339589809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

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The consulate also stated that they had to seek assistance from local authorities and would pursue action against the trespassers.
&ldquo;We were compelled to call in relevant local authorities to deal with the situation. Further action is being initiated against the trespassers,&rdquo; the post added.
News agency PTI referred to one of the intruders as Kshama Sawant.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-visit-us-on-feb-12-13-will-hold-talks-with-president-trump-8699757">PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Who is Kshama Sawant?</h2>
A video available on social media showed Sawant, whose bio on X says she was a Seattle City Council Member from 2014 to 2023 along with another person, claiming that she was denied a visa to go to India because she was on the &lsquo;reject list.&rsquo;
In a post on X, Sawant said she was on the &lsquo;reject list&rsquo; as her Socialist City Council office passed a resolution against the CAA-NRC Citizenship Act.
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&ldquo;A Consular officer said I'm being denied a visa coz I'm on Modi govt's &lsquo;reject list.&rsquo; It's clear why. My socialist City Council office passed a resolution condemning Modi's anti-Muslim anti-poor CAA-NRC citizenship law. We also won a historic ban on caste discrimination [sic]," Sawant wrote.
<h2 dir="ltr">Attack on Indian Consulate in 2023</h2>
Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke on the 2023 attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and termed it a &ldquo;very serious matter".
While speaking to the press in Washington DC on Jan 23, Jaishankar said India expects accountability for the incident.
On March 19, 2023, the Indian Consulate in San Francisco was attacked, and attempts were made to set the Consulate building on fire.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: A recent breach at the Indian Consulate in Seattle led to swift action by authorities, highlighting security concerns and the response to the trespassing incident.

A group of people trespassed the Indian Consulate in Seattle after which the authorities were compelled to take action against the intruders, the consulate said on Friday (Feb 7). The consulate posted on X that the intruders refused to leave the premises even after repeated requests and engaged in aggressive and threatening behaviour with their staff members. "Today, the Consulate was forced to deal with a law and order situation arising from the unauthorized entry by certain individuals into the Consulate premises after office hours. Despite repeated requests, these individuals refused to leave the Consulate premises and engaged in aggressive and threatening behaviour with the Consulate staff," the post read. Today, the Consulate was forced to deal with a law and order situation arising from the unauthorized entry by certain individuals into the Consulate premises after office hours. Despite repeated requests, these individuals refused to leave the Consulate premises and engaged in… — India In Seattle (@IndiainSeattle) February 7, 2025 The consulate also stated that they had to seek assistance from local authorities and would pursue action against the trespassers. “We were compelled to call in relevant local authorities to deal with the situation. Further action is being initiated against the trespassers,” the post added. News agency PTI referred to one of the intruders as Kshama Sawant. Also read | PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump Who is Kshama Sawant? A video available on social media showed Sawant, whose bio on X says she was a Seattle City Council Member from 2014 to 2023 along with another person, claiming that she was denied a visa to go to India because she was on the ‘reject list.’ In a post on X, Sawant said she was on the ‘reject list’ as her Socialist City Council office passed a resolution against the CAA-NRC Citizenship Act. Also read | Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order “A Consular officer said I'm being denied a visa coz I'm on Modi govt's ‘reject list.’ It's clear why. My socialist City Council office passed a resolution condemning Modi's anti-Muslim anti-poor CAA-NRC citizenship law. We also won a historic ban on caste discrimination [sic]," Sawant wrote. Attack on Indian Consulate in 2023 Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke on the 2023 attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and termed it a “very serious matter". While speaking to the press in Washington DC on Jan 23, Jaishankar said India expects accountability for the incident. On March 19, 2023, the Indian Consulate in San Francisco was attacked, and attempts were made to set the Consulate building on fire. (With inputs from agencies)

'Aggressive, threatening behaviour': Trespassers barge into Indian Consulate in Seattle

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on his official visit to the United States on February 12, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday.&nbsp;
Indian prime minister is scheduled to hold discussions with US President Donald Trump in Washington.&nbsp;
This will mark his first visit to the US after the inauguration of President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-travel-to-us-next-week-meet-president-donald-trump-8687911" rel="dofollow">Indian PM Narendra Modi to meet US President Donald Trump next week</a>
"The PM would be among the first few world leaders to visit the US following the inauguration of President Trump,&rdquo; Misri said at a special briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
<h2>Modi to visit France from Feb 10-12</h2>
PM Modi will travel to the US after visiting France from February 10 to 12, where he is scheduled to co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris. He will discuss the future of artificial intelligence, its governance, and its role in shaping international policies.
This comes after a White House official released a statement confirming that Trump has invited Modi for talks next week.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-co-chair-ai-summit-to-open-new-consulate-in-marseille-during-france-visit-sources-8698477" rel="dofollow">PM Modi to co-chair AI Summit, to open new Consulate in Marseille during France visit: Sources</a>
Earlier also, Trump hinted at the visit as he told reporters last month that he had spoken to Modi and looked forward to hosting him in Washington.&nbsp;
PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on January 27.&nbsp;
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On Jan 27, Trump spoke with Modi and discussed immigration and stressed the importance of India buying more American-made security equipment and fair bilateral trading ties.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-french-president-macron-to-jointly-inaugurate-indian-consulate-in-marseille-8691162" rel="dofollow">PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille</a>
They also had a conversation on bilateral trade and defence cooperation, with Trump emphasising on &lsquo;fair trade&rsquo; and increased procurement of US security equipment.
Moreover, it also comes days after a US military plane deported 104 Indians who had illegally immigrated to the US.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Indian prime minister is scheduled to hold discussions with the US President in Washington, marking his first visit to the US after the inauguration of Donald Trump. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on his official visit to the United States on February 12, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Friday. Indian prime minister is scheduled to hold discussions with US President Donald Trump in Washington. This will mark his first visit to the US after the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi to meet US President Donald Trump next week "The PM would be among the first few world leaders to visit the US following the inauguration of President Trump,” Misri said at a special briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Modi to visit France from Feb 10-12 PM Modi will travel to the US after visiting France from February 10 to 12, where he is scheduled to co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris. He will discuss the future of artificial intelligence, its governance, and its role in shaping international policies. This comes after a White House official released a statement confirming that Trump has invited Modi for talks next week. Also read: PM Modi to co-chair AI Summit, to open new Consulate in Marseille during France visit: Sources Earlier also, Trump hinted at the visit as he told reporters last month that he had spoken to Modi and looked forward to hosting him in Washington. PM Modi and Donald Trump have spoken to each other twice since the November 2024 US election results, the last conversation being on January 27. Also read: Indian PM Modi accepts Macron's invitation for AI Action Summit On Jan 27, Trump spoke with Modi and discussed immigration and stressed the importance of India buying more American-made security equipment and fair bilateral trading ties. Also read: PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille They also had a conversation on bilateral trade and defence cooperation, with Trump emphasising on ‘fair trade’ and increased procurement of US security equipment. Moreover, it also comes days after a US military plane deported 104 Indians who had illegally immigrated to the US. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to visit US on Feb 12-13, will hold talks with President Trump

US President Donald Trump proposed plans to build a lavish $100 million ballroom at the White House, drawing inspiration from the one at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
The proposed ballroom would serve as a venue for high-profile events, including parties and state dinners. Interestingly, Trump promises to cover the entire cost of construction by himself, according to The Times report.
During a signing ceremony in the East Room, Trump, on Wednesday (Feb 5), expressed his desire to construct a "beautiful, beautiful ballroom" like the one that he has at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
The US president, referring to the East Room, said that there were &ldquo;people outside that can&rsquo;t even get in,&rdquo; calling it a "packed" space.
He said that he had earlier offered to construct the ballroom during Joe Biden's presidency, but was met with rejection.
&ldquo;&rsquo;It was going to cost $100 million dollars . . . I offered to do it to the Biden administration,&rdquo; he said.
However, officials from the Obama administration have reportedly claimed that Trump first made this offer to them after a state dinner was staged in a tent on the White House lawn for the then-Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
<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">Also read: From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden</a>
<h2>'Will make the offer to myself'</h2>
Trump then said that he would try and make the offer again.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m going to try and make the offer to myself,&rdquo; he jokingly remarked.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ll see if Trump will approve it.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump first made the offer in 2010</h2>
Trump had first proposed the plan to construct the ballroom in the year 2010, said David Axelrod, who served as Barack Obama's adviser.
&ldquo;I see you have these state dinners on the lawn there in these sh*t little tents,&rdquo; Axelrod recalled in his memoir, Believer. &ldquo;I build ballrooms. Beautiful ballrooms. You can go to Tampa and check one of them out for yourself.&rdquo; &nbsp;
&ldquo;Trust me. It&rsquo;ll look great,&rdquo; Trump said, according to Axelrod.
<h2>Seating capacity of the East Room</h2>
The East Room can seat up to 120 people for dinner.
The state dinner, which was held in the year 2009 for the Indian prime minister and nearly 350 other guests, was held in a "massive pavilion, complete with an orchestra platform, theatrical lighting, a professional sound system, full heating, satellite kitchens and a dozen chandeliers bedecked with sustainably harvested magnolia branches and ivy,&rdquo; according to Vanity Fair.
It took five days to build the structure which reportedly cost over $100,000.
Trump, in 2011, told Rush Limbaugh, that holding state dinner in a tent was a disgrace.
&ldquo;When a dignitary comes in from India, from anywhere, they open up a tent,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;A tent! &hellip; An old, rotten tent that frankly they probably rented, pay a guy millions of dollars for it even though it&rsquo;s worth about $2, okay?&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: During a signing ceremony in the East Room, Trump, on Wednesday (Feb 5), expressed his desire to construct a "beautiful, beautiful ballroom" like the one that he has at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.

US President Donald Trump proposed plans to build a lavish $100 million ballroom at the White House, drawing inspiration from the one at his Mar-a-Lago estate. The proposed ballroom would serve as a venue for high-profile events, including parties and state dinners. Interestingly, Trump promises to cover the entire cost of construction by himself, according to The Times report. During a signing ceremony in the East Room, Trump, on Wednesday (Feb 5), expressed his desire to construct a "beautiful, beautiful ballroom" like the one that he has at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. The US president, referring to the East Room, said that there were “people outside that can’t even get in,” calling it a "packed" space. He said that he had earlier offered to construct the ballroom during Joe Biden's presidency, but was met with rejection. “’It was going to cost $100 million dollars . . . I offered to do it to the Biden administration,” he said. However, officials from the Obama administration have reportedly claimed that Trump first made this offer to them after a state dinner was staged in a tent on the White House lawn for the then-Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Also read: From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ propaganda, shocking spending by USAID under Biden 'Will make the offer to myself' Trump then said that he would try and make the offer again. “I’m going to try and make the offer to myself,” he jokingly remarked. “We’ll see if Trump will approve it.” Trump first made the offer in 2010 Trump had first proposed the plan to construct the ballroom in the year 2010, said David Axelrod, who served as Barack Obama's adviser. “I see you have these state dinners on the lawn there in these sh*t little tents,” Axelrod recalled in his memoir, Believer. “I build ballrooms. Beautiful ballrooms. You can go to Tampa and check one of them out for yourself.” “Trust me. It’ll look great,” Trump said, according to Axelrod. Seating capacity of the East Room The East Room can seat up to 120 people for dinner. The state dinner, which was held in the year 2009 for the Indian prime minister and nearly 350 other guests, was held in a "massive pavilion, complete with an orchestra platform, theatrical lighting, a professional sound system, full heating, satellite kitchens and a dozen chandeliers bedecked with sustainably harvested magnolia branches and ivy,” according to Vanity Fair. It took five days to build the structure which reportedly cost over $100,000. Trump, in 2011, told Rush Limbaugh, that holding state dinner in a tent was a disgrace. “When a dignitary comes in from India, from anywhere, they open up a tent,” he said. “A tent! … An old, rotten tent that frankly they probably rented, pay a guy millions of dollars for it even though it’s worth about $2, okay?” (With inputs from agencies)

Luxury upgrade: Trump offers to build lavish $100 million ballroom at the White House

A federal judge in Seattle on Thursday (Feb 6) indefinitely blocked US President Donald Trump's executive order that seeks to end birthright citizenship bringing a big relief for Indian students and professionals living in the United States on visas and awaiting green cards.
Slamming the order, the court reportedly said that the US President is trying to skirt the rule of law to play "policy games" with the Constitution.
This is the second major legal blow to Trump&rsquo;s efforts to alter the US law as a federal judge in Maryland issued a similar ruling earlier.
Also read | Federal judge temporarily halts Trump&rsquo;s birthright citizenship order
<h2 dir="ltr">What does the judge say?</h2>
"It has become ever-more apparent that to our president, the rule of law is but an impediment to his policy goals. The rule of law is, according to him, something to navigate around or simply ignore, whether that be for political or personal gain," Judge Coughenour said during a hearing.
"In this courtroom and under my watch, the rule of law is a bright beacon which I intend to follow," Coughenour continued.
Emphasising that the Constitution is not something with which the government can play policy games, Judge Coughenour said, &ldquo;If the government wants to change the exceptional American grant of birthright citizenship, it needs to amend the Constitution itself.&rdquo;
Also read | UK orders Apple to create back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts: Report
A new nationwide preliminary injunction issued in Seattle builds upon a previous temporary block by Judge Coughenour, who initially halted the President's order just days after its signing.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">Affect on Indians in America</h2>
Trump&rsquo;s order to end birthright citizenship denies US citizenship to children born on American soil to parents who are not permanent residents of the United States.
The order caused concerns among the Indian community in the US, particularly those living on temporary visas like H-1B (work visas), L (intra-company transfers), H-4 (dependent visas) and F (student visas).
Also read | Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats
Without the right to birthright citizenship, children of these immigrants may lose access to in-state tuition rates, federal financial aid and scholarships, significantly impacting their educational prospects.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: A Seattle judge halts Trump's order on birthright citizenship indefinitely, offering significant relief for Indian students and professionals on visas in the US.

A federal judge in Seattle on Thursday (Feb 6) indefinitely blocked US President Donald Trump's executive order that seeks to end birthright citizenship bringing a big relief for Indian students and professionals living in the United States on visas and awaiting green cards. Slamming the order, the court reportedly said that the US President is trying to skirt the rule of law to play "policy games" with the Constitution. This is the second major legal blow to Trump’s efforts to alter the US law as a federal judge in Maryland issued a similar ruling earlier. Also read | Federal judge temporarily halts Trump’s birthright citizenship order What does the judge say? "It has become ever-more apparent that to our president, the rule of law is but an impediment to his policy goals. The rule of law is, according to him, something to navigate around or simply ignore, whether that be for political or personal gain," Judge Coughenour said during a hearing. "In this courtroom and under my watch, the rule of law is a bright beacon which I intend to follow," Coughenour continued. Emphasising that the Constitution is not something with which the government can play policy games, Judge Coughenour said, “If the government wants to change the exceptional American grant of birthright citizenship, it needs to amend the Constitution itself.” Also read | UK orders Apple to create back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts: Report A new nationwide preliminary injunction issued in Seattle builds upon a previous temporary block by Judge Coughenour, who initially halted the President's order just days after its signing. Affect on Indians in America Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship denies US citizenship to children born on American soil to parents who are not permanent residents of the United States. The order caused concerns among the Indian community in the US, particularly those living on temporary visas like H-1B (work visas), L (intra-company transfers), H-4 (dependent visas) and F (student visas). Also read | Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats Without the right to birthright citizenship, children of these immigrants may lose access to in-state tuition rates, federal financial aid and scholarships, significantly impacting their educational prospects. (With inputs from agencies)

Major relief for Indians in US as court indefinitely halts Trump's birthright citizenship order

The UK security officials have demanded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/apple" rel="dofollow">Apple </a>to create a back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts and retrieve all content uploaded by the Apple user to the cloud, people familiar with the matter told The Washington Post.&nbsp;
The undisclosed order by the British government was issued last month and has no known precedent in major democracies. It requires the blanket capability to view fully encrypted material, not merely assistance in cracking a specific account.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/apple-suspends-new-ai-feature-that-was-criticised-for-making-mistakes-in-news-alerts-8630254" rel="dofollow">Apple suspends new AI feature that was criticised for making mistakes in news alerts</a>
Its applications would cause a major defeat for the tech companies in their decade-long history of battle, avoiding being considered as government tools against their users. People concerned with the matter said, on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;
Following this, the company is likely to stop offering encrypted storage in the UK, and will break the security promises it made to its users.&nbsp;
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Reuters tried to get a comment on this from Apple, the iPhone maker company, but failed to get a response.
UK's office of the Home Secretary has served Apple with a document called a technical capability notice, ordering it to provide the access, according to The Washington Post.
"We do not comment on operational matters, including for example confirming or denying the existence of any such notices," a Home Office spokesperson said.
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Earlier in January, the UK used its regulatory powers to launch an investigation into Apple and Google's smartphone operating systems, app stores and browsers.&nbsp;
Last month, Apple agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit accusing its digital assistant Siri of listening in on users&rsquo; private conversations. Talk captured by &ldquo;unintended Siri activation&rdquo; was obtained by Apple and perhaps even shared with third parties, according to the suit.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Science & technology: The undisclosed order by the British government was issued last month and has no known precedent in major democracies. 

The UK security officials have demanded Apple to create a back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts and retrieve all content uploaded by the Apple user to the cloud, people familiar with the matter told The Washington Post. The undisclosed order by the British government was issued last month and has no known precedent in major democracies. It requires the blanket capability to view fully encrypted material, not merely assistance in cracking a specific account. Also read: Apple suspends new AI feature that was criticised for making mistakes in news alerts Its applications would cause a major defeat for the tech companies in their decade-long history of battle, avoiding being considered as government tools against their users. People concerned with the matter said, on condition of anonymity. Following this, the company is likely to stop offering encrypted storage in the UK, and will break the security promises it made to its users. Also read: Apple condemns EU app laws as first porn app arrives on iPhones Reuters tried to get a comment on this from Apple, the iPhone maker company, but failed to get a response. UK's office of the Home Secretary has served Apple with a document called a technical capability notice, ordering it to provide the access, according to The Washington Post. "We do not comment on operational matters, including for example confirming or denying the existence of any such notices," a Home Office spokesperson said. Also read: Apple to pay $95 million for lawsuit against Siri for listening user's private conversation Earlier in January, the UK used its regulatory powers to launch an investigation into Apple and Google's smartphone operating systems, app stores and browsers. Last month, Apple agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit accusing its digital assistant Siri of listening in on users’ private conversations. Talk captured by “unintended Siri activation” was obtained by Apple and perhaps even shared with third parties, according to the suit. (With inputs from agencies)

UK orders Apple to create back door for them to spy on users' encrypted accounts: Report

The devastating midair collision in Washington DC, that claimed 67 lives last week could have been avoided, claimed Senator Ted Cruz in an interview on Thursday (Feb 6).
On Jan 29, a US military's Black Hawk helicopter, crashed into an American Airlines jet as it was making its final descent at Reagan National Airport.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-regretting-taking-this-job-susie-wiles-wide-eye-stare-at-trump-while-he-announces-jaw-dropping-plan-for-gaza-8698142">Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable</a>
<h2>Revelations made during closed door meeting</h2>
As per the New York Times, after a closed-door briefing with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Cruz, chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, highlighted concerns over the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology which he said was disabled. The Black Hawk was on a training mission when the crash happened. &nbsp;
<h2>What is ADS-B?</h2>
ADS-B is regarded as a superior safety tool, and it provides real-time data on an aircraft's position, altitude, and speed, offering air traffic controllers critical situational awareness. Unlike radar, which has a delay, ADS-B ensures faster, more accurate tracking, acting as an essential safety net in busy airspace. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-warns-his-government-against-negotiating-with-us-says-it-would-be-unwise-8698844">Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise'</a>
While military aircraft are allowed to deactivate ADS-B for high-security "continuity of government" missions, Cruz noted that the Black Hawk's flight on January 29 did not qualify as such. "In this instance, this was a training mission, so there was no compelling national security reason for ADS-B to be turned off," Cruz stated. &nbsp;
The Army has so far declined to comment on Cruz's allegations. Colonel Roger Cabiness, an Army spokesperson, said, "We're going to let the investigation play out and not get ahead of the N.T.S.B. findings".
<h2>What happened on Jan 29?</h2>
The Black Hawk was conducting a routine exercise to certify one of its pilots when it collided with the passenger jet. Cruz confirmed that while the helicopter was equipped with a transponder, ADS-B would have provided superior data and possibly prevented the crash. &nbsp;
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>
Efforts to recover the wreckage from the Potomac River are ongoing, with NTSB investigators racing to extract critical evidence. Senators involved in the briefing withheld detailed comments, stating that more clarity is needed before drawing conclusions. &nbsp; &nbsp; Cruz has also called on the FAA to review and reduce helicopter routes passing through commercial airspace, citing the need to assess safety protocols on high-traffic flight paths. &nbsp;
Meanwhile, the FAA has reduced hourly flight operations at Reagan National Airport, with one runway still closed due to the ongoing investigation. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Senator Ted Cruz asserts that the tragic Washington midair collision might have been prevented with ADS-B technology, had it not been disabled during the incident.

The devastating midair collision in Washington DC, that claimed 67 lives last week could have been avoided, claimed Senator Ted Cruz in an interview on Thursday (Feb 6). On Jan 29, a US military's Black Hawk helicopter, crashed into an American Airlines jet as it was making its final descent at Reagan National Airport. Also read | Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable Revelations made during closed door meeting As per the New York Times, after a closed-door briefing with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Cruz, chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, highlighted concerns over the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology which he said was disabled. The Black Hawk was on a training mission when the crash happened. What is ADS-B? ADS-B is regarded as a superior safety tool, and it provides real-time data on an aircraft's position, altitude, and speed, offering air traffic controllers critical situational awareness. Unlike radar, which has a delay, ADS-B ensures faster, more accurate tracking, acting as an essential safety net in busy airspace. Also read | Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise' While military aircraft are allowed to deactivate ADS-B for high-security "continuity of government" missions, Cruz noted that the Black Hawk's flight on January 29 did not qualify as such. "In this instance, this was a training mission, so there was no compelling national security reason for ADS-B to be turned off," Cruz stated. The Army has so far declined to comment on Cruz's allegations. Colonel Roger Cabiness, an Army spokesperson, said, "We're going to let the investigation play out and not get ahead of the N.T.S.B. findings". What happened on Jan 29? The Black Hawk was conducting a routine exercise to certify one of its pilots when it collided with the passenger jet. Cruz confirmed that while the helicopter was equipped with a transponder, ADS-B would have provided superior data and possibly prevented the crash. Also read | Fired Israeli ex-defence minister Gallant slams Netanyahu, claims Hezbollah could have been 'wiped out' in Oct 2023 Efforts to recover the wreckage from the Potomac River are ongoing, with NTSB investigators racing to extract critical evidence. Senators involved in the briefing withheld detailed comments, stating that more clarity is needed before drawing conclusions. Cruz has also called on the FAA to review and reduce helicopter routes passing through commercial airspace, citing the need to assess safety protocols on high-traffic flight paths. Meanwhile, the FAA has reduced hourly flight operations at Reagan National Airport, with one runway still closed due to the ongoing investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

Senator Ted Cruz claims Washington midair collision could have been avoided with ADS-B

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) is under heavy scrutiny after a crackdown by the Donald Trump administration. 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." He vowed 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.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-places-usaid-global-staff-on-leave-orders-them-to-return-home-8694295">Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home</a>
From allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban to funding LGBTQ 'propaganda', here are some major spendings:&nbsp;
<h2>$15 million for condoms for the Taliban&nbsp;</h2>
In a shocking claim, Mast said the USAID allocated condoms worth $15 million to the Afghanistan-ruling Taliban, an extremist group known for curbing women's rights in the country. Mocking the expenditure, Mast said, "I don't think anybody's going to die because we don't give the Taliban any more condoms."&nbsp;
<h2>$446,000 to promote atheism</h2>
Mast further claimed in the video that around half a million dollars were used to promote atheism in Nepal through the State Department.&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">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
<h2>$350 million for a pier in Gaza&nbsp;</h2>
It was also claimed in the video that a massive sum of $350 million was spent to build a pier in Gaza, allegedly to facilitate humanitarian aid in the region.&nbsp;
<h2>$1 million to boost French-speaking LGBTQ groups</h2>
USAID, through the State Department, funded LGBTQ activism in West and Central Africa with a sum of $1 million.
<h2>$47,000 for transgender opera&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
It was further claimed that the US government under the Biden administration spent around $47,000 to fund a transgender-themed opera in Columbia.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="400" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OuOj9ohMCqc?feature=oembed" title="hey liberals - watch this" class="publive-iframes-block publive-YouTube-block" id="PL_iframe_block-m6uiyjla-itkri4lp-1nale2fw"></iframe>
<h2>$20,600 for drag show</h2>
Furthermore, USAID, as per Mast, paid a significant amount of $20,600 to fund drag performances in Ecuador. He further said that Fundaci&oacute;n Di&aacute;logo Diverso, an LGBTQ organisation in Ecuador, received nearly $75,000 over three years. The fund was used to organise a two-day drag workshop and the event was documented as well.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usaid-to-grant-115-million-in-aid-to-el-salvador-to-stem-migration-391524">USAID to grant $115 million in aid to El Salvador to stem migration</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | 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. 

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) is under heavy scrutiny after a crackdown by the Donald Trump administration. 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." He vowed 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. Also read: Trump admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home From allocating condoms worth millions to the Taliban to funding LGBTQ 'propaganda', here are some major spendings: $15 million for condoms for the Taliban In a shocking claim, Mast said the USAID allocated condoms worth $15 million to the Afghanistan-ruling Taliban, an extremist group known for curbing women's rights in the country. Mocking the expenditure, Mast said, "I don't think anybody's going to die because we don't give the Taliban any more condoms." $446,000 to promote atheism Mast further claimed in the video that around half a million dollars were used to promote atheism in Nepal through the State Department. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director $350 million for a pier in Gaza It was also claimed in the video that a massive sum of $350 million was spent to build a pier in Gaza, allegedly to facilitate humanitarian aid in the region. $1 million to boost French-speaking LGBTQ groups USAID, through the State Department, funded LGBTQ activism in West and Central Africa with a sum of $1 million. $47,000 for transgender opera Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk It was further claimed that the US government under the Biden administration spent around $47,000 to fund a transgender-themed opera in Columbia. $20,600 for drag show Furthermore, USAID, as per Mast, paid a significant amount of $20,600 to fund drag performances in Ecuador. He further said that Fundación Diálogo Diverso, an LGBTQ organisation in Ecuador, received nearly $75,000 over three years. The fund was used to organise a two-day drag workshop and the event was documented as well. Also read: USAID to grant $115 million in aid to El Salvador to stem migration (With inputs from agencies)

From condoms worth $15mn for Taliban to $1mn for LGBTQ 'propaganda', 'shocking spending by USAID under Biden

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Friday (Feb 7), urged his government against negotiating with the United States stating that it would not solve the country's problems.&nbsp;
"We must understand this correctly; they should not pretend that if we sit down at the negotiating table with that government (the US administration), problems will be solved," Khamenei said during a meeting with army commanders, adding that "no problem will be solved by negotiating with America".
He further warned that such a move by his government would be "unwise" and "not intelligent".
"You should not negotiate with such a government, it is unwise, it is not intelligent, it is not honourable to negotiate," said Khamenei, adding that the United States had previously "ruined, violated, and tore up" a 2015 nuclear deal.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-on-government-payments-to-politico-8698518">Also read: Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats</a>
<h2>'If they threaten us, we will threaten them'</h2>
Khamenei further warned that his country would hit back if the United States carried out actions against Iran.&nbsp;
"If they threaten us, we will threaten them. If they carry out this threat, we will carry out our threat. If they attack the security of our nation, we will attack their security without hesitation," he said.
The warning comes after United States President Donald Trump called for a "verified nuclear peace agreement" with Iran, emphasizing that Tehran "cannot have a nuclear weapon".
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-create-faith-office-to-end-anti-christian-bias-in-america-8698493">Also read: Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America</a>
Trump reignited his "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, citing concerns over the country's alleged nuclear weapons development.&nbsp;
During Trump's first presidential term, which concluded in 2021, his administration implemented stringent sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;
A significant consequence of this policy was Washington's withdrawal from Iran's landmark nuclear programme.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that negotiating with the United States would be "unwise" and "not intelligent".

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Friday (Feb 7), urged his government against negotiating with the United States stating that it would not solve the country's problems. "We must understand this correctly; they should not pretend that if we sit down at the negotiating table with that government (the US administration), problems will be solved," Khamenei said during a meeting with army commanders, adding that "no problem will be solved by negotiating with America". He further warned that such a move by his government would be "unwise" and "not intelligent". "You should not negotiate with such a government, it is unwise, it is not intelligent, it is not honourable to negotiate," said Khamenei, adding that the United States had previously "ruined, violated, and tore up" a 2015 nuclear deal. Also read: Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats 'If they threaten us, we will threaten them' Khamenei further warned that his country would hit back if the United States carried out actions against Iran. "If they threaten us, we will threaten them. If they carry out this threat, we will carry out our threat. If they attack the security of our nation, we will attack their security without hesitation," he said. The warning comes after United States President Donald Trump called for a "verified nuclear peace agreement" with Iran, emphasizing that Tehran "cannot have a nuclear weapon". Also read: Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America Trump reignited his "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, citing concerns over the country's alleged nuclear weapons development. During Trump's first presidential term, which concluded in 2021, his administration implemented stringent sanctions against Iran. A significant consequence of this policy was Washington's withdrawal from Iran's landmark nuclear programme. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei warns his government against negotiating with US, says it would be 'unwise'

A passenger train went up in flames on Thursday (February 6) night in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, local media reported, adding that all 350 passengers were evacuated.
Eyewitness video showed fire and smoke engulfing what appeared to be the first car of the train, which the eyewitness could be heard referring to as a SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) train.
The person filming could also be heard saying that firefighters were fighting the fire from &ldquo;the other side of the tracks&rdquo;.
Reuters was able to confirm the location from nearby buildings, utility poles, road layouts and walls that matched satellite imagery and street view imagery. The date was verified by metadata on the original footage.
The fire started under the first car of the train and passengers were evacuated at Crum Lynne Station in Ridley Park, Delaware County, SEPTA officials said. No injuries were reported, officials added.
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.

World news | A SEPTA passenger train caught fire in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, leading to the evacuation of passengers. 

A passenger train went up in flames on Thursday (February 6) night in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, local media reported, adding that all 350 passengers were evacuated. Eyewitness video showed fire and smoke engulfing what appeared to be the first car of the train, which the eyewitness could be heard referring to as a SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) train. The person filming could also be heard saying that firefighters were fighting the fire from “the other side of the tracks”. Reuters was able to confirm the location from nearby buildings, utility poles, road layouts and walls that matched satellite imagery and street view imagery. The date was verified by metadata on the original footage. The fire started under the first car of the train and passengers were evacuated at Crum Lynne Station in Ridley Park, Delaware County, SEPTA officials said. No injuries were reported, officials added. 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.

Fire engulfs SEPTA passenger train in Pennsylvania, 350 passengers evacuated

Israel's former defence minister Yoav Gallant in an interview aired on Thursday (Feb 6) slammed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being overly hesitant in using force against militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. The general-turned-lawmaker also claimed that Israel could've wiped Iran-backed Hezbollah from existence in October 2023, as the "beeper operation" that saw thousands of Hezbollah pagers explode was ready long before the militants launched their attack.
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>'A missed opportunity' against Hezbollah</h2>
In his first televised interview since being dismissed in November, Gallant disclosed details of the "beeper operation," which he said was a long-prepared strategy designed to dismantle Hezbollah's military capabilities.&nbsp;
The operation, which involved detonating explosives in pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah operatives, was carried out on September 16-17. However, as per Gallant, if executed earlier, it could have dealt a crippling blow to the group in October 2023. &nbsp;
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>
"Hezbollah as a military organization would have ceased to exist &mdash; no leadership, no missiles or rockets, most of its operatives killed in the field," he said, as quoted by Times of Israel.
Gallant claimed the plan was ready years prior, but was delayed due to Netanyahu's insistence on consulting the US.&nbsp;
"In accordance with his (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) request, I spoke with [US National Security Adviser] Jake Sullivan. After a few minutes, [Strategic Affairs Minister] Ron Dermer joined the conversation, and I received an absolute 'no,'" he recalled.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-on-government-payments-to-politico-8698518">Donald Trump: Government payments made to Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats</a>
Netanyahu, he said, feared the repercussions of launching a two-front war with Hezbollah while still reeling from Hamas's October 7 attacks.
"I went back to the prime minister, and I told him, 'We have to do this.' He (Netanyahu) pointed out the window at all the buildings, and told me: 'You see these buildings? All of this will be destroyed by Hezbollah's leftover capacity. After we hit them, they&rsquo;ll destroy everything you see'," claimed Gallant.
<h2>Netanyahu hits back</h2>
In conversation with Channel 14, Netanyahu defended his decision, arguing that it would have been a "horrible mistake" and that Hezbollah's residual firepower could have devastated Israeli cities. The prime minister also claimed that only 150 booby-trapped pagers were in Hezbollah's possession in October 2023, "as opposed to thousands that we accumulated" by the September 2024 operation.
Watch | Yoav Gallant Vs Netanyahu: Fired Defence Minister accuses Netanyahu of being overly hesitant
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0702_wion_YOAV_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0702_wion_YOAV_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=115&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="Yoav Gallant Vs Netanyahu: Fired Defence Minister accuses Netanyahu of being overly hesitant" id="PL_iframe_block-m6ugsat8-8km4gu68-5ykfj4er"></iframe>
Gallant quickly refuted this, stating the pagers were widely distributed among Hezbollah operatives by October 2023. "The pager operation was prepared years before the war and was ready for activation on October 11," he wrote on X.
"Contrary to what was said, thousands of pagers were in the hands of the terrorists by the time I suggested attacking Hezbollah," he added, arguing that the delay allowed Hezbollah to reduce the eventual operation's impact
He said that by September 2024, "the vast majority of walkie-talkies were in warehouses, and their explosion caused no damage." This, he said, happened because by that time Hezbollah had become suspicious that something was wrong with the devices.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant criticizes Netanyahu for hesitating to strike Hezbollah, claiming a missed chance to dismantle the group in October 2023.

Israel's former defence minister Yoav Gallant in an interview aired on Thursday (Feb 6) slammed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being overly hesitant in using force against militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah. The general-turned-lawmaker also claimed that Israel could've wiped Iran-backed Hezbollah from existence in October 2023, as the "beeper operation" that saw thousands of Hezbollah pagers explode was ready long before the militants launched their attack. Also read | Israel backs Trump plan, orders army to plan to let Palestinians leave Gaza 'A missed opportunity' against Hezbollah In his first televised interview since being dismissed in November, Gallant disclosed details of the "beeper operation," which he said was a long-prepared strategy designed to dismantle Hezbollah's military capabilities. The operation, which involved detonating explosives in pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah operatives, was carried out on September 16-17. However, as per Gallant, if executed earlier, it could have dealt a crippling blow to the group in October 2023. Also read | Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu "Hezbollah as a military organization would have ceased to exist — no leadership, no missiles or rockets, most of its operatives killed in the field," he said, as quoted by Times of Israel. Gallant claimed the plan was ready years prior, but was delayed due to Netanyahu's insistence on consulting the US. "In accordance with his (PM Benjamin Netanyahu) request, I spoke with [US National Security Adviser] Jake Sullivan. After a few minutes, [Strategic Affairs Minister] Ron Dermer joined the conversation, and I received an absolute 'no,'" he recalled. Also read | Donald Trump: Government payments made to Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats Netanyahu, he said, feared the repercussions of launching a two-front war with Hezbollah while still reeling from Hamas's October 7 attacks. "I went back to the prime minister, and I told him, 'We have to do this.' He (Netanyahu) pointed out the window at all the buildings, and told me: 'You see these buildings? All of this will be destroyed by Hezbollah's leftover capacity. After we hit them, they’ll destroy everything you see'," claimed Gallant. Netanyahu hits back In conversation with Channel 14, Netanyahu defended his decision, arguing that it would have been a "horrible mistake" and that Hezbollah's residual firepower could have devastated Israeli cities. The prime minister also claimed that only 150 booby-trapped pagers were in Hezbollah's possession in October 2023, "as opposed to thousands that we accumulated" by the September 2024 operation. Watch | Yoav Gallant Vs Netanyahu: Fired Defence Minister accuses Netanyahu of being overly hesitant Gallant quickly refuted this, stating the pagers were widely distributed among Hezbollah operatives by October 2023. "The pager operation was prepared years before the war and was ready for activation on October 11," he wrote on X. "Contrary to what was said, thousands of pagers were in the hands of the terrorists by the time I suggested attacking Hezbollah," he added, arguing that the delay allowed Hezbollah to reduce the eventual operation's impact He said that by September 2024, "the vast majority of walkie-talkies were in warehouses, and their explosion caused no damage." This, he said, happened because by that time Hezbollah had become suspicious that something was wrong with the devices. (With inputs from agencies)

Fired Israeli ex-defence minister Gallant slams Netanyahu, claims Hezbollah could have been 'wiped out' in Oct 2023

A joint India-France roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), talks on India Middle East Europe corridor, &amp; an announcement on a Small Modular Reactor in the Nuclear domain will be among the key focus areas during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit next week. The Indian prime minister will be in the country from February 10-12, during which he will attend the AI summit in which India is the co-host along with France.
This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. Diplomatic sources said, "One of the results of the visit will be a bilateral roadmap on AI between India and France." US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance &amp; China by one of its vice premiers.
<h2>Indian consulate in Marseille</h2>
PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the CEO business forum and also travel to Marseille for the inauguration of the Indian consulate in the Mediterranean city in the south of France.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-french-president-macron-to-jointly-inaugurate-indian-consulate-in-marseille-8691162" rel="dofollow">PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille</a>
The announcement of the consulate was made during PM Modi's s 2022 France visit. The city could play a key role in the India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, which was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit.&nbsp;
Sources pointed, "Mumbai and Marseille will be the two ends of the corridor. IMEE will be high on the agenda." France has appointed G&eacute;rard Mestrallet as its Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), who visited India in November of last year to hold discussions. In fact, France is the only country so far to announce a special envoy for the mega economic connectivity project. &nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0402_WION_MODI_VISIT_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0402_WION_MODI_VISIT_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=270&amp;tags=india, pm modi, usa" title="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit USA after concluding France trip" id="PL_iframe_block-m6ugl3k7-4jxjq3ia-8oaoa4a1"></iframe>
The overall focus will be on defence &amp; security, economic ties &amp; people to people relationships with a focus on the French side keen to host more Indian students.
<h2>Defence deals</h2>
Regarding any announcement in the defence area, including the Rafale-M &amp; Scorpene deal, sources said, "Important discussion underway...let us wait and see, can't confirm, but long tradition of contract signing."
The visit to France comes just days ahead of an expected visit of the President of the European Commission, Ursala von Der Leyen to India along with her Cabinet during which many issues will be in focus, including giving a push to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).&nbsp;
Sources pointed out that on India EU FTA we "need to sit around the table. Von Der Leyen's India visit will focus on a common objective. India EU relationship is a priority within the France-India relationship."
PM Modi has visited France several times, with his last trip coming in 2022. French President Macron was in India in 2024 as the chief guest on India's Republic Day. He could also visit India next year, for the India-France Innovation Year.

World News | This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. 

A joint India-France roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), talks on India Middle East Europe corridor, & an announcement on a Small Modular Reactor in the Nuclear domain will be among the key focus areas during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit next week. The Indian prime minister will be in the country from February 10-12, during which he will attend the AI summit in which India is the co-host along with France. This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. Diplomatic sources said, "One of the results of the visit will be a bilateral roadmap on AI between India and France." US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance & China by one of its vice premiers. Indian consulate in Marseille PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the CEO business forum and also travel to Marseille for the inauguration of the Indian consulate in the Mediterranean city in the south of France. Also Read: PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille The announcement of the consulate was made during PM Modi's s 2022 France visit. The city could play a key role in the India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, which was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit. Sources pointed, "Mumbai and Marseille will be the two ends of the corridor. IMEE will be high on the agenda." France has appointed Gérard Mestrallet as its Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), who visited India in November of last year to hold discussions. In fact, France is the only country so far to announce a special envoy for the mega economic connectivity project. The overall focus will be on defence & security, economic ties & people to people relationships with a focus on the French side keen to host more Indian students. Defence deals Regarding any announcement in the defence area, including the Rafale-M & Scorpene deal, sources said, "Important discussion underway...let us wait and see, can't confirm, but long tradition of contract signing." The visit to France comes just days ahead of an expected visit of the President of the European Commission, Ursala von Der Leyen to India along with her Cabinet during which many issues will be in focus, including giving a push to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Sources pointed out that on India EU FTA we "need to sit around the table. Von Der Leyen's India visit will focus on a common objective. India EU relationship is a priority within the France-India relationship." PM Modi has visited France several times, with his last trip coming in 2022. French President Macron was in India in 2024 as the chief guest on India's Republic Day. He could also visit India next year, for the India-France Innovation Year.

AI roadmap, small modular reactor, IMEE key focus during PM Modi's France visit

The US Senate on Thursday (Feb 6) confirmed Russell Vought as director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the entity at the centre of a contentious effort to freeze federal funding for aid programs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-on-government-payments-to-politico-8698518">Donald Trump: Government payments made to Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats</a>
He was approved by a vote of 53-47 over strong opposition from Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who termed him "one of the most fringe and hard-right individuals the Senate has seen in a very long time."
Vought held the same position during President Donald Trump's first administration, during which he issued a memo barring the use of taxpayer funds for anti-racism training -- a move the US president has doubled down on during his second term.
Vought will take office again amid a nationwide uproar over an OMB order issued last week that halted trillions of dollars in federal loans, grants and other assistance.
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>
OMB subsequently issued a terse notification saying the freezing of aid order had been "rescinded," but White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced soon afterwards that it remained in place -- and only the memo from the budget office was taken back.
A US district judge blocked the spending freeze last week, then extended that measure on Monday, saying plaintiffs who brought the case had shown they would suffer "irreparable harm" if it took effect.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-regretting-taking-this-job-susie-wiles-wide-eye-stare-at-trump-while-he-announces-jaw-dropping-plan-for-gaza-8698142">Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable</a>
Democrats have accused Trump of constitutional overreach by seeking to stop government spending already approved by Congress, which has authority over the US budget.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
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World | Vought will take office again amid a nationwide uproar over an OMB order issued last week that halted trillions of dollars in federal loans, grants and other assistance.

The US Senate on Thursday (Feb 6) confirmed Russell Vought as director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the entity at the centre of a contentious effort to freeze federal funding for aid programs. Also read: Donald Trump: Government payments made to Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats He was approved by a vote of 53-47 over strong opposition from Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who termed him "one of the most fringe and hard-right individuals the Senate has seen in a very long time." Vought held the same position during President Donald Trump's first administration, during which he issued a memo barring the use of taxpayer funds for anti-racism training -- a move the US president has doubled down on during his second term. Vought will take office again amid a nationwide uproar over an OMB order issued last week that halted trillions of dollars in federal loans, grants and other assistance. Also read: Israel backs Trump plan, orders army to plan to let Palestinians leave Gaza OMB subsequently issued a terse notification saying the freezing of aid order had been "rescinded," but White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced soon afterwards that it remained in place -- and only the memo from the budget office was taken back. A US district judge blocked the spending freeze last week, then extended that measure on Monday, saying plaintiffs who brought the case had shown they would suffer "irreparable harm" if it took effect. Also read: Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable Democrats have accused Trump of constitutional overreach by seeking to stop government spending already approved by Congress, which has authority over the US budget. Also read: 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' 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.

Trump administration confirms Russell Vought as White House budget director

United States President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-just-getting-started-white-house-recaps-two-weeks-of-trump-presidency-in-95-seconds-8688269" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Thursday (Feb 6) reiterated his claim that billions of dollars had "been stolen at the USAID, and other agencies" and given "to the fake news media" to write favourable stories about Democrats. In a social media post, Trump alleged that US-based news website Politico had received $8 million. The website has denied allegations, calling them "flat-out false".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-create-faith-office-to-end-anti-christian-bias-in-america-8698493">Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America</a>
On his official Truth Social account, Trump posted: "LOOKS LIKE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS HAVE BEEN STOLLEN [sic] AT USAID, AND OTHER AGENCIES, MUCH OF IT GOING TO THE FAKE NEWS MEDIA AS A "PAYOFF" FOR CREATING GOOD STORIES ABOUT THE DEMOCRATS." &nbsp;&nbsp;
"THE LEFT WING "RAG," KNOWN AS "POLITICO," SEEMS TO HAVE RECEIVED $8,000,000. Did the New York Times receive money??? Who else did??? THIS COULD BE THE BIGGEST SCANDAL OF THEM ALL, PERHAPS THE BIGGEST IN HISTORY! THE DEMOCRATS CAN'T HIDE FROM THIS ONE. TOO BIG, TOO DIRTY!" he added.&nbsp;
This came hours after the White House announced that it would stop paying for Politico subscriptions in the aftermath of claims that the United States Agency for International Development subsidised the media outlet.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-daughter-in-law-lara-trump-to-host-prime-time-tv-news-show-on-this-major-us-tv-network-8695058">Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump to host prime time TV news show on THIS major US TV network</a>
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Wednesday that she was "made aware of the funding of USAID to media outlets, including Politico" and that the media outlet was paid more than $8 million by the federal government.&nbsp;
Leavitt added that the government was "essentially subsidizing subscriptions to Politico on the American taxpayers' dime".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
She added that the DOGE team, which is Trump's new Department of Government Efficiency led by billionaire Elon Musk, is working on "cancelling those payments now".&nbsp;
USAspending.gov, which is a government website that tracks federal spending, revealed that in 2024, the government agencies paid a total of almost $8 million for Politico subscriptions and products, including $24,000 spent by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) on subscriptions.&nbsp;
As per the data, federal agencies also paid for subscriptions to other news outlets, such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal in 2014.&nbsp;
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">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
<h2>Politico denies allegations&nbsp;</h2>
Politico's editor-in-chief John Harris wrote a letter to the staff on Wednesday, saying, "POLITICO has never been a beneficiary of government programs or subsidies &mdash; not one cent, ever, in 18 years."&nbsp;
The "overwhelming majority" of Politico Pro subscriptions come from the private sector, Harris further said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Learn about the White House's decision to halt Politico subscriptions amid allegations of government subsidies, and the response from Politico denying these claims.

United States President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 6) reiterated his claim that billions of dollars had "been stolen at the USAID, and other agencies" and given "to the fake news media" to write favourable stories about Democrats. In a social media post, Trump alleged that US-based news website Politico had received $8 million. The website has denied allegations, calling them "flat-out false". Also read: Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America On his official Truth Social account, Trump posted: "LOOKS LIKE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS HAVE BEEN STOLLEN [sic] AT USAID, AND OTHER AGENCIES, MUCH OF IT GOING TO THE FAKE NEWS MEDIA AS A "PAYOFF" FOR CREATING GOOD STORIES ABOUT THE DEMOCRATS." "THE LEFT WING "RAG," KNOWN AS "POLITICO," SEEMS TO HAVE RECEIVED $8,000,000. Did the New York Times receive money??? Who else did??? THIS COULD BE THE BIGGEST SCANDAL OF THEM ALL, PERHAPS THE BIGGEST IN HISTORY! THE DEMOCRATS CAN'T HIDE FROM THIS ONE. TOO BIG, TOO DIRTY!" he added. This came hours after the White House announced that it would stop paying for Politico subscriptions in the aftermath of claims that the United States Agency for International Development subsidised the media outlet. Also read: Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump to host prime time TV news show on THIS major US TV network White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Wednesday that she was "made aware of the funding of USAID to media outlets, including Politico" and that the media outlet was paid more than $8 million by the federal government. Leavitt added that the government was "essentially subsidizing subscriptions to Politico on the American taxpayers' dime". Also read: 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws She added that the DOGE team, which is Trump's new Department of Government Efficiency led by billionaire Elon Musk, is working on "cancelling those payments now". USAspending.gov, which is a government website that tracks federal spending, revealed that in 2024, the government agencies paid a total of almost $8 million for Politico subscriptions and products, including $24,000 spent by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) on subscriptions. As per the data, federal agencies also paid for subscriptions to other news outlets, such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal in 2014. Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports Politico denies allegations Politico's editor-in-chief John Harris wrote a letter to the staff on Wednesday, saying, "POLITICO has never been a beneficiary of government programs or subsidies — not one cent, ever, in 18 years." The "overwhelming majority" of Politico Pro subscriptions come from the private sector, Harris further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump: Government paid Politico to write 'good stories' about Democrats

Israel's defence minister ordered the army on Thursday to prepare for "voluntary" departures from Gaza, as US President Donald Trump ruled out sending American troops to the territory.
Trump had earlier proposed moving Palestinians out of Gaza, sparking uproar from leaders in the Middle East and beyond.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said he instructed the military to formulate a plan for Palestinians to leave Gaza, which has been ravaged by more than a year of war.
"I have instructed the IDF (military) to prepare a plan to enable voluntary departure for Gaza residents," Katz said, adding they could go "to any country willing to accept them".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-create-faith-office-to-end-anti-christian-bias-in-america-8698493">Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America</a>&nbsp;
Trump announced his proposal for Gaza to audible gasps on Tuesday at a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the first foreign leader to visit the White House since the inauguration.
The United Nations warned any forced displacement of Palestinians would be "tantamount to ethnic cleansing". Trump insisted "everybody loves" the plan, saying it would involve the United States taking over Gaza.
Arab nations, however, firmly rejected it, and the US president offered few details on how more than two million Palestinians would be removed.
His administration later appeared to backtrack, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying any transfer of Gazans would be temporary. But Trump doubled down on Thursday.
"The Gaza Strip would be turned over to the United States by Israel after fighting," he said on his Truth Social platform. "No soldiers by the US would be needed! Stability for the region would reign!!!"
Rubio will pay his first visit to the Middle East as secretary of state later this month, visiting Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar from February 13, a senior US State Department official said Thursday.
The top US diplomat has said those denouncing Trump's proposal should "step forward and provide a solution".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112">'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting</a>
Netanyahu on Thursday also voiced support for Trump's plan, calling it "the first original idea to be raised in years".
Hamas's spokesman condemned Trump's statements as "absolutely unacceptable".
"Trump's remarks about Washington taking control of Gaza amount to an open declaration of intent to occupy the territory," Hazem Qassem said.
"Gaza is for its people and they will not leave.
A ceasefire deal reached last month is intended to halt the war in Gaza, which was triggered by the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, led by Palestinian militant group Hamas.
<h2>'Steadfast in our homeland'&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-regretting-taking-this-job-susie-wiles-wide-eye-stare-at-trump-while-he-announces-jaw-dropping-plan-for-gaza-8698142">Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable</a>
Katz said Trump's plan "could create broad opportunities for Gaza residents who wish to leave... and also facilitate the advancement of reconstruction programs for a demilitarized, threat-free Gaza". Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich -- who vowed Wednesday to "definitively bury" the idea of a Palestinian state -- said he welcomed Katz's move.
Palestinians residing in the coastal territory have vowed to remain. For them, any attempt to push them out of Gaza recalls the "Nakba", or "catastrophe" -- the mass displacement of Palestinians during Israel's creation in 1948.
"They can do whatever they want, but we will remain steadfast in our homeland," said 41-year-old Gazan Ahmed Halasa. Some Israelis in Jerusalem welcomed Trump's proposal, though others doubted it could be carried out.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112">'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting</a>
"I like what he said, but in my wildest dreams... it's hard for me to believe it will happen, but who knows," said 65-year-old Refael. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump wanted Palestinians to only be "temporarily relocated" out of Gaza. "It's not a liveable place for any human being," she said.
But Trump, who also said he might visit Gaza, suggested it would not be rebuilt for Palestinians.
<h2>'Weakens' ceasefire&nbsp;</h2>
Even before Tuesday's announcements, Trump had suggested residents of Gaza should move to Egypt and Jordan, both of which have flatly rejected any resettlement of Palestinians on their territory.
Egypt's foreign ministry on Thursday said Israeli support for Trump's plan "weakens and destroys the negotiations on a ceasefire agreement and incites a return to fighting".
Egypt, Qatar and the United States mediated the fragile January 19 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Talks resumed this week for the second phase of the truce, expected to herald a more permanent end to the fighting.&nbsp;Israel's military offensive has left much of Gaza in ruins, including schools, hospitals and most civil infrastructure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trumps-gaza-takeover-plan-and-non-nuclear-iran-a-game-changer-or-a-political-fantasy-8695161">Trump&rsquo;s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy?</a>
In a bid to address the dire humanitarian situation, aid has been rushed into the territory, with more than 10,000 aid trucks entering since the ceasefire took effect, according to UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher.
In neighbouring Lebanon, Israel said late Thursday it had struck two sites that allegedly contained weapons belonging to the Hezbollah group, a Hamas ally, despite a separate truce deal in that country.&nbsp;
Lebanon's state news agency NNA said Israel had carried out air strikes on the south and east of the country.
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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. 
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WORLD | Israel's defence minister ordered the army on Thursday to prepare for "voluntary" departures from Gaza, as US President Donald Trump ruled out sending American troops to the territory.

Israel's defence minister ordered the army on Thursday to prepare for "voluntary" departures from Gaza, as US President Donald Trump ruled out sending American troops to the territory. Trump had earlier proposed moving Palestinians out of Gaza, sparking uproar from leaders in the Middle East and beyond. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said he instructed the military to formulate a plan for Palestinians to leave Gaza, which has been ravaged by more than a year of war. "I have instructed the IDF (military) to prepare a plan to enable voluntary departure for Gaza residents," Katz said, adding they could go "to any country willing to accept them". Also read: Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America Trump announced his proposal for Gaza to audible gasps on Tuesday at a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the first foreign leader to visit the White House since the inauguration. The United Nations warned any forced displacement of Palestinians would be "tantamount to ethnic cleansing". Trump insisted "everybody loves" the plan, saying it would involve the United States taking over Gaza. Arab nations, however, firmly rejected it, and the US president offered few details on how more than two million Palestinians would be removed. His administration later appeared to backtrack, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying any transfer of Gazans would be temporary. But Trump doubled down on Thursday. "The Gaza Strip would be turned over to the United States by Israel after fighting," he said on his Truth Social platform. "No soldiers by the US would be needed! Stability for the region would reign!!!" Rubio will pay his first visit to the Middle East as secretary of state later this month, visiting Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar from February 13, a senior US State Department official said Thursday. The top US diplomat has said those denouncing Trump's proposal should "step forward and provide a solution". Also read: 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting Netanyahu on Thursday also voiced support for Trump's plan, calling it "the first original idea to be raised in years". Hamas's spokesman condemned Trump's statements as "absolutely unacceptable". "Trump's remarks about Washington taking control of Gaza amount to an open declaration of intent to occupy the territory," Hazem Qassem said. "Gaza is for its people and they will not leave. A ceasefire deal reached last month is intended to halt the war in Gaza, which was triggered by the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, led by Palestinian militant group Hamas. 'Steadfast in our homeland' Also read: Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable Katz said Trump's plan "could create broad opportunities for Gaza residents who wish to leave... and also facilitate the advancement of reconstruction programs for a demilitarized, threat-free Gaza". Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich -- who vowed Wednesday to "definitively bury" the idea of a Palestinian state -- said he welcomed Katz's move. Palestinians residing in the coastal territory have vowed to remain. For them, any attempt to push them out of Gaza recalls the "Nakba", or "catastrophe" -- the mass displacement of Palestinians during Israel's creation in 1948. "They can do whatever they want, but we will remain steadfast in our homeland," said 41-year-old Gazan Ahmed Halasa. Some Israelis in Jerusalem welcomed Trump's proposal, though others doubted it could be carried out. Also read: 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting "I like what he said, but in my wildest dreams... it's hard for me to believe it will happen, but who knows," said 65-year-old Refael. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump wanted Palestinians to only be "temporarily relocated" out of Gaza. "It's not a liveable place for any human being," she said. But Trump, who also said he might visit Gaza, suggested it would not be rebuilt for Palestinians. 'Weakens' ceasefire Even before Tuesday's announcements, Trump had suggested residents of Gaza should move to Egypt and Jordan, both of which have flatly rejected any resettlement of Palestinians on their territory. Egypt's foreign ministry on Thursday said Israeli support for Trump's plan "weakens and destroys the negotiations on a ceasefire agreement and incites a return to fighting". Egypt, Qatar and the United States mediated the fragile January 19 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Talks resumed this week for the second phase of the truce, expected to herald a more permanent end to the fighting. Israel's military offensive has left much of Gaza in ruins, including schools, hospitals and most civil infrastructure. Also read: Trump’s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy? In a bid to address the dire humanitarian situation, aid has been rushed into the territory, with more than 10,000 aid trucks entering since the ceasefire took effect, according to UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher. In neighbouring Lebanon, Israel said late Thursday it had struck two sites that allegedly contained weapons belonging to the Hezbollah group, a Hamas ally, despite a separate truce deal in that country. Lebanon's state news agency NNA said Israel had carried out air strikes on the south and east of the country. 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.

Israel backs Trump plan, orders army to plan to let Palestinians leave Gaza

US President Donald Trump announced he wants to end "anti-Christian bias" from America for which he was creating a White House faith office which will be led by the newly chosen Attorney General Pam Bondi. The task force will work to investigate the "targeting" of Christians across the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-attorney-general-pick-pam-bondi-says-shell-end-weaponisation-of-us-justice-8625169">Trump's attorney general pick Pam Bondi says she'll end 'weaponisation' of US justice</a>
The US president, while addressing an event in Washington surrounding the National Prayer Breakfast, said the force would be directed to &ldquo;immediately halt all forms of anti-Christian targeting and discrimination within the federal government, including at the DOJ, which was terrible, the IRS, the FBI &mdash; terrible &mdash; and other agencies."
Trump further added that Bondi would work to &ldquo;fully prosecute anti-Christian violence" and vandalism in American society. The force would "move heaven and earth to defend the rights of Christians and religious believers nationwide," said Trump. &nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-regretting-taking-this-job-susie-wiles-wide-eye-stare-at-trump-while-he-announces-jaw-dropping-plan-for-gaza-8698142">Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable</a>
Hours after the event, Trump signed an executive order directing the new task force to identify policies and practices that are unlawful. They are further instructed to suggest any additional presidential or legislative action.&nbsp;
Trump's Thursday announcement could raise questions on the law that separates church and state, as per the US &nbsp;Constitution's First Amendment. The law limits government endorsement of religions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
Trump has repeatedly tried creating a religious anointing since he faced his first assassination attempt during the 2024 presidential campaign. "Many people have told me that God spared my life for a reason," Trump had said in his speeches around the country.&nbsp;
Moreover, he has also gained the faith of American Christians via his conservative policies such as changing gender norms in sports and the US military.&nbsp;
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>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | Hours after the event, Trump signed an executive order directing the new task force to identify the policies and practices that are unlawful.

US President Donald Trump announced he wants to end "anti-Christian bias" from America for which he was creating a White House faith office which will be led by the newly chosen Attorney General Pam Bondi. The task force will work to investigate the "targeting" of Christians across the US. Also read: Trump's attorney general pick Pam Bondi says she'll end 'weaponisation' of US justice The US president, while addressing an event in Washington surrounding the National Prayer Breakfast, said the force would be directed to “immediately halt all forms of anti-Christian targeting and discrimination within the federal government, including at the DOJ, which was terrible, the IRS, the FBI — terrible — and other agencies." Trump further added that Bondi would work to “fully prosecute anti-Christian violence" and vandalism in American society. The force would "move heaven and earth to defend the rights of Christians and religious believers nationwide," said Trump. Also read: Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable Hours after the event, Trump signed an executive order directing the new task force to identify policies and practices that are unlawful. They are further instructed to suggest any additional presidential or legislative action. Trump's Thursday announcement could raise questions on the law that separates church and state, as per the US Constitution's First Amendment. The law limits government endorsement of religions. Also read: 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws Trump has repeatedly tried creating a religious anointing since he faced his first assassination attempt during the 2024 presidential campaign. "Many people have told me that God spared my life for a reason," Trump had said in his speeches around the country. Moreover, he has also gained the faith of American Christians via his conservative policies such as changing gender norms in sports and the US military. Also read: Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to create faith office to end 'anti-Christian bias' in America

A Bering Air flight, which had 10 people on board, reportedly disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome on Thursday (Feb 6), local time. BNO News reported that a search operation is underway for Bering Air Flight 445 which suddenly disappeared midway in the afternoon while flying over the Bering Sea.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flight-data-from-the-mid-air-collision-in-dc-shows-discrepancy-in-altitudes-8683481">Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise</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;
A statement was also issued by the Alaska State Troopers confirming the incident.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/washington-dc-plane-crash-us-and-russian-figure-skaters-believed-to-be-onboard-8674484">Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight</a>
&ldquo;On February 6, 2025, at 4.00 pm, AST was contacted by AKRCC in reference to an overdue aircraft. It was reported that a Bering Air Caravan had gone missing while en route from Unalakteet to Nome, with 9 passengers and 1 pilot on board. SAR crews are working to get to the last known coordinates. Updates to follow,&rdquo; the statement read.
Alaska Public Media News quoted Danielle Sem, a spokesperson for tribal non-profit Kawerak, as saying, "Right now air support is not available because of the weather and icing, so we&rsquo;re doing a ground effort right now."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ud7thh-t8zc8vnz-il5rofyk">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewsAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewsAlert</a> | A Bering Air flight, which had 10 people onboard, reportedly disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome<a href="https://twitter.com/JyotsnaKumar13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JyotsnaKumar13</a> brings you this report Also read: <a href="https://t.co/YvPhXUbNtm">https://t.co/YvPhXUbNtm</a> <a href="https://t.co/NC2YySH64v">pic.twitter.com/NC2YySH64v</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1887744838743073125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-airlines-flight-evacuated-after-engine-issue-on-houston-to-new-york-route-8685658">United Airlines flight evacuated after engine issue on Houston to New York route</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;
&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;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-decide-to-resume-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-direct-flights">India, China decide to resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | A Bering Air flight, which had 10 people on board, reportedly disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome on Thursday (Feb 6), local time. 

A Bering Air flight, which had 10 people on board, reportedly disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome on Thursday (Feb 6), local time. BNO News reported that a search operation is underway for Bering Air Flight 445 which suddenly disappeared midway in the afternoon while flying over the Bering Sea. Also read: Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise 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. A statement was also issued by the Alaska State Troopers confirming the incident. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight “On February 6, 2025, at 4.00 pm, AST was contacted by AKRCC in reference to an overdue aircraft. It was reported that a Bering Air Caravan had gone missing while en route from Unalakteet to Nome, with 9 passengers and 1 pilot on board. SAR crews are working to get to the last known coordinates. Updates to follow,” the statement read. Alaska Public Media News quoted Danielle Sem, a spokesperson for tribal non-profit Kawerak, as saying, "Right now air support is not available because of the weather and icing, so we’re doing a ground effort right now." #NewsAlert | A Bering Air flight, which had 10 people onboard, reportedly disappeared from the radar near Alaska's Nome@JyotsnaKumar13 brings you this report Also read: https://t.co/YvPhXUbNtm pic.twitter.com/NC2YySH64v — WION (@WIONews) February 7, 2025 WATCH: United Airlines flight evacuated after engine issue on Houston to New York route 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. “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. WATCH: India, China decide to resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights (With inputs from agencies)

Bering Air Flight mysteriously disappears from radar near Alaska's Nome

A photo of Donald Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles staring with wide eyes as the US president announced his plan to "take over" the Gaza Strip has gone viral with the internet claiming even she was not ready for what Trump said. On Tuesday (Feb 4), Trump announced his plan for Gaza in a bilateral press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112">'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting</a>
"We'll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site ... level the site and get rid of the destroyed buildings," Trump said in his announcement.&nbsp;
Netanyahu praised Trump for his plan, saying, "You see things others refuse to see, You say things others refuse to say."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-offer-exit-options-for-palestinians-in-gaza-including-land-sea-and-air-routes-defence-minister-israel-katz-8695513">Israel to offer exit options for Gazans; Defence Minister says they can go to countries that 'levelled false claims' against Tel Aviv</a>
"And after the jaws drop people scratch their heads and they say, you know, he's right," the Israeli PM added.&nbsp;
<h2>'Look at Susie Wiles&rsquo; face'</h2>
The viral photograph showed Wiles staring at Trump with wide-open eyes and a stern face.&nbsp;
An X user shared photos of Wiles and wrote, "Lmao, look at Susie Wiles&rsquo; face when Trump says Palestinians shouldn&rsquo;t go back to Gaza."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ubt7b2-urgxlfk1-1xys5r98">
Lmao, look at Susie Wiles&rsquo; face when Trump says Palestinians shouldn&rsquo;t go back to Gaza. Just like every other CoS before her, she has zero control over this buffoon. <a href="https://t.co/GSPpwzBjVo">pic.twitter.com/GSPpwzBjVo</a>
&mdash; Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisDJackson/status/1886919806957301780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Just like every other CoS before her, she has zero control over this buffoon," the user added.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, another user said, "I remember when Politico wrote an article saying that Susie Wiles is 'so good at managing Donald Trump'."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ubtv0w-s8qs6jfz-33psyqyv">
I remember when Politico wrote an article saying that Susie Wiles is &ldquo;so good at managing Donald Trump.&rdquo; The look on her face when he said Palestinians from Gaza shouldn&rsquo;t go back says otherwise. <a href="https://t.co/UNzADAokFk">pic.twitter.com/UNzADAokFk</a>
&mdash; Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArtCandee/status/1887139615338811543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Another joked saying it looked like Wiles is already regretting taking the job.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ubsh2a-nmfd4bk6-lhb9bah5">
Looks like Suzie Wiles is already regretting taking this job. <a href="https://t.co/sA88Bfc94H">pic.twitter.com/sA88Bfc94H</a>
&mdash; Dexter the Dog (@dexter_doggie) <a href="https://twitter.com/dexter_doggie/status/1886929693552648420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/systematic-dehumanisation-us-chief-warns-against-ethnic-cleansing-of-gaza-after-trumps-remark-8694668">'Systematic dehumanisation': US chief warns against 'ethnic cleansing' of Gaza after Trump's remark</a>
One user shared a video of American political consultant Jessica Tarlov on Fox News saying if one wants to know how crazy the idea of a Gaza takeover is, they should look at Susie Wiles' face.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ubu2fc-7w49ut72-z7wjs3se">
Jessica: If you wanna know how crazy the idea is, you have to look no further than Susie Wiles&rsquo; face as he said it. <a href="https://t.co/W6kPiKXcuc">pic.twitter.com/W6kPiKXcuc</a>
&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1887263825520627980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trumps-gaza-takeover-plan-and-non-nuclear-iran-a-game-changer-or-a-political-fantasy-8695161">Trump&rsquo;s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | On Tuesday (Feb 4), Trump announced his plan for Gaza in a bilateral press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. 

A photo of Donald Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles staring with wide eyes as the US president announced his plan to "take over" the Gaza Strip has gone viral with the internet claiming even she was not ready for what Trump said. On Tuesday (Feb 4), Trump announced his plan for Gaza in a bilateral press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Also read: 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting "We'll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site ... level the site and get rid of the destroyed buildings," Trump said in his announcement. Netanyahu praised Trump for his plan, saying, "You see things others refuse to see, You say things others refuse to say." Also read: Israel to offer exit options for Gazans; Defence Minister says they can go to countries that 'levelled false claims' against Tel Aviv "And after the jaws drop people scratch their heads and they say, you know, he's right," the Israeli PM added. 'Look at Susie Wiles’ face' The viral photograph showed Wiles staring at Trump with wide-open eyes and a stern face. An X user shared photos of Wiles and wrote, "Lmao, look at Susie Wiles’ face when Trump says Palestinians shouldn’t go back to Gaza." Lmao, look at Susie Wiles’ face when Trump says Palestinians shouldn’t go back to Gaza. Just like every other CoS before her, she has zero control over this buffoon. pic.twitter.com/GSPpwzBjVo — Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) February 4, 2025 "Just like every other CoS before her, she has zero control over this buffoon," the user added. Meanwhile, another user said, "I remember when Politico wrote an article saying that Susie Wiles is 'so good at managing Donald Trump'." I remember when Politico wrote an article saying that Susie Wiles is “so good at managing Donald Trump.” The look on her face when he said Palestinians from Gaza shouldn’t go back says otherwise. pic.twitter.com/UNzADAokFk — Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) February 5, 2025 Another joked saying it looked like Wiles is already regretting taking the job. Looks like Suzie Wiles is already regretting taking this job. pic.twitter.com/sA88Bfc94H — Dexter the Dog (@dexter_doggie) February 5, 2025 Also read: 'Systematic dehumanisation': US chief warns against 'ethnic cleansing' of Gaza after Trump's remark One user shared a video of American political consultant Jessica Tarlov on Fox News saying if one wants to know how crazy the idea of a Gaza takeover is, they should look at Susie Wiles' face. Jessica: If you wanna know how crazy the idea is, you have to look no further than Susie Wiles’ face as he said it. pic.twitter.com/W6kPiKXcuc — Acyn (@Acyn) February 5, 2025 Also read: Trump’s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy? (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles' wide-eyed stare as Trump announces his Gaza plan is unmissable

The United States Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on Thursday (Feb 6) sanctioned an international network. The fresh sanctions were slapped, including on an Indian company, for facilitating the shipment of millions of barrels of Iranian crude oil worth hundreds of millions of dollars to China.&nbsp;
The move is consistent with US President Donald Trump's National Security Presidential Memorandum, which directed the Treasury Department and other US government agencies to put maximum economic pressure on Iran. The US aims to deny Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and also counter its alleged malign influence.&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">'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online</a>
In an official statement, the department stated that the oil was shipped on behalf of Iran's Armed Forces General Staff (AFGS) and its sanctioned front company, Sepehr Energy Jahan Nama Pars (Sepehr Energy).&nbsp;
The statement mentioned that the action includes entities and individuals in multiple jurisdictions, including China, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as well as several vessels.&nbsp;
The statement claimed that Iran generates the equivalent of billions of dollars each year through oil sales to fund its destabilising regional activities.&nbsp;
The statement further alleged that the funds help support multiple regional terrorist groups, including "Hamas, the Houthis, and Hizballah". The AFGS utilises networks of foreign-based front companies and brokers to enable these oil sales and shipments.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-delays-deadline-for-elon-musks-resign-or-be-fired-buyout-scheme-for-federal-employees-8697881">US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees&nbsp;</a>
As quoted, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said, "The Iranian regime remains focused on leveraging its oil revenues to fund the development of its nuclear program, to produce its deadly ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, and to support its regional terrorist proxy groups."&nbsp;
"The United States is committed to aggressively targeting any attempt by Iran to secure funding for these malign activities," Bessent added. &nbsp;
While speaking about the sanctions, Tammy Bruce, a State Department spokesperson said as quoted by news agency Reuters, "We will use all tools at our disposal to hold the regime accountable for its destabilising activities and pursuit of nuclear weapons that threaten the civilized world."&nbsp;
<h2>Marshal Ship Management Private Limited&nbsp;</h2>
According to the statement, India-based crew management company Marshal Ship Management Private Limited provided crew members for the SIRI, as well as multiple other Sepehr Energy-linked ships, including the sanctioned vessels ELSA, HEBE and BOREAS.&nbsp;
Crew members provided by Marshal Ship Management Private Limited have aided Sepehr Energy in falsifying shipping documents and presenting those documents to port authorities, the statement mentioned.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-dutch-author-kader-abdolah-says-rabindranath-tagores-work-inspires-him-8696921">Iran-Dutch author Kader Abdolah says Rabindranath Tagore&rsquo;s work inspires him</a>&nbsp;
Indian national Ryan Xavier Aranha acts as a director for Marshal Ship Management Private Limited, which maintains additional offices in the Philippines and the UAE.&nbsp;
The sanctions also designated Iranian national Arash Lavian, who the US said helped support Sepehr. Treasury also blocked sanctions on the Panama-flagged CH Billion tanker and the Hong Kong-flagged Star Forest tanker for their role in shipping Iranian oil to China.&nbsp;
Young Folks International Trading Co and Limited and Lucky Ocean Shipping Limited were also designated for operating in Iran's petroleum sector.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | India News | Marshal Ship Management Private Limited, an Indian firm, is designated for providing crew to vessels involved in shipping Iranian oil, falsifying documents to bypass authorities 

The United States Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on Thursday (Feb 6) sanctioned an international network. The fresh sanctions were slapped, including on an Indian company, for facilitating the shipment of millions of barrels of Iranian crude oil worth hundreds of millions of dollars to China. The move is consistent with US President Donald Trump's National Security Presidential Memorandum, which directed the Treasury Department and other US government agencies to put maximum economic pressure on Iran. The US aims to deny Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and also counter its alleged malign influence. Also read: 'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online In an official statement, the department stated that the oil was shipped on behalf of Iran's Armed Forces General Staff (AFGS) and its sanctioned front company, Sepehr Energy Jahan Nama Pars (Sepehr Energy). The statement mentioned that the action includes entities and individuals in multiple jurisdictions, including China, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as well as several vessels. The statement claimed that Iran generates the equivalent of billions of dollars each year through oil sales to fund its destabilising regional activities. The statement further alleged that the funds help support multiple regional terrorist groups, including "Hamas, the Houthis, and Hizballah". The AFGS utilises networks of foreign-based front companies and brokers to enable these oil sales and shipments. Also read: US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees As quoted, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said, "The Iranian regime remains focused on leveraging its oil revenues to fund the development of its nuclear program, to produce its deadly ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, and to support its regional terrorist proxy groups." "The United States is committed to aggressively targeting any attempt by Iran to secure funding for these malign activities," Bessent added. While speaking about the sanctions, Tammy Bruce, a State Department spokesperson said as quoted by news agency Reuters, "We will use all tools at our disposal to hold the regime accountable for its destabilising activities and pursuit of nuclear weapons that threaten the civilized world." Marshal Ship Management Private Limited According to the statement, India-based crew management company Marshal Ship Management Private Limited provided crew members for the SIRI, as well as multiple other Sepehr Energy-linked ships, including the sanctioned vessels ELSA, HEBE and BOREAS. Crew members provided by Marshal Ship Management Private Limited have aided Sepehr Energy in falsifying shipping documents and presenting those documents to port authorities, the statement mentioned. Also read: Iran-Dutch author Kader Abdolah says Rabindranath Tagore’s work inspires him Indian national Ryan Xavier Aranha acts as a director for Marshal Ship Management Private Limited, which maintains additional offices in the Philippines and the UAE. The sanctions also designated Iranian national Arash Lavian, who the US said helped support Sepehr. Treasury also blocked sanctions on the Panama-flagged CH Billion tanker and the Hong Kong-flagged Star Forest tanker for their role in shipping Iranian oil to China. Young Folks International Trading Co and Limited and Lucky Ocean Shipping Limited were also designated for operating in Iran's petroleum sector. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian company, Indian national sanctioned by US over Iran oil trade

A 25-year-old staff member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians.&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">&lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
The White House was questioned about Marko Elez, one of the two department staff members who gained access to the US Treasury's payment system. The second employee to have access is&nbsp;Tom Krause, the chief executive of Cloud Software Group Inc.&nbsp;
Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy."&nbsp;He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.&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">&lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity.&nbsp;
In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate".&nbsp;
According to the Wall Street Journal, Elez had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-akash-bobba-22-year-old-indian-origin-tech-prodigy-hired-by-musks-doge-8688462">Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?</a>
US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation.&nbsp;
As per WSJ, Elez posted in December 2024 that Indian workers in the US on H1B visas are "going back, don't worry guys."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-and-trumps-doge-under-ethics-watchdogs-radar-over-record-keeping-violations-american-oversight-says-clearly-efforts-underway-to-conceal-information-using-auto-delete-8649440">Elon Musk and Donald Trump's 'Doge' agency under ethics watchdog's radar. Here's why</a>
Commenting on the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ex-DOGE member said, &ldquo;I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.&rdquo;
This came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Bloomberg that he had personally reviewed the background of both employees of Musk's DOGE team.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/musks-doge-adopts-ai-first-strategy-will-it-help-save-taxpayers-money-8691623">Musk's Doge adopts 'AI first' strategy: will it help save taxpayers money?</a>
"These are highly trained professionals," he said in the interview.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | This incident has sparked broader discussions on the responsibility of tech leaders to ensure ethical conduct among employees and the impact of social media misuse.

A 25-year-old staff member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge The White House was questioned about Marko Elez, one of the two department staff members who gained access to the US Treasury's payment system. The second employee to have access is Tom Krause, the chief executive of Cloud Software Group Inc. Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy." He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity. In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate". According to the Wall Street Journal, Elez had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool." Also read: Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE? US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation. As per WSJ, Elez posted in December 2024 that Indian workers in the US on H1B visas are "going back, don't worry guys." Also read: Elon Musk and Donald Trump's 'Doge' agency under ethics watchdog's radar. Here's why Commenting on the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ex-DOGE member said, “I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.” This came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Bloomberg that he had personally reviewed the background of both employees of Musk's DOGE team. WATCH: Musk's Doge adopts 'AI first' strategy: will it help save taxpayers money? "These are highly trained professionals," he said in the interview. (With inputs from agencies)

'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) over its "baseless" investigations against America and its allies, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Greek island of Santorini has declared a state of emergency after persistent earthquakes disrupted daily life.&nbsp;
In the US, Donald Trump's administration has sued Chicago over its "sanctuary" laws, accusing the city of obstructing federal immigration enforcement.&nbsp;
Finally, a judge has delayed Elon Musk's controversial 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees, which has already seen 40,000 workers accept the offer.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slaps-sanctions-on-icc-over-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-baseless-arrest-warrant-8697704" aria-label="Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/06/CajWwLdJzT1Nl9D8Havx.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump (R) meets with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 4, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 6) signed an executive order slapping sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for issuing an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, a close US ally.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/santorini-earthquakes-state-of-emergency-greece-tsunami-8697738" aria-label="Santorini earthquakes: State of emergency declared; Israel prepares for tsunami">Santorini earthquakes: State of emergency declared; Israel prepares for tsunami</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/aNWPIWEa1zrSnY7yul3s.png" alt=" Photograph: (AFP) ">
The Greek island of Santorini, a popular tourist spot, declared a state of emergency on Thursday (Feb 6) after the strongest earthquake of 5.2 magnitude was recorded on Wednesday evening. The recent unprecedented near-constant tremors have disrupted life on the island.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819" aria-label="'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/A0ZgKlzLKecHynMxwx4w.png" alt=" 'Some of these aliens': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws Photograph: (AFP) ">
Donald Trump administration sued Chicago on Thursday (Feb 6) alleging that the "sanctuary" laws of the city tried blocking the efforts of the US President to deport illegal migrants. The lawsuit aimed at overturning measures in the city that prohibit police from arresting individuals based on their immigration status.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-delays-deadline-for-elon-musks-resign-or-be-fired-buyout-scheme-for-federal-employees-8697881" aria-label="US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees">US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/07/OwEqQS67oUyfymIQvi72.png" alt=" Elon Musk Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP ) ">
Elon Musk's scheme to slash the size of the US government by instilling "panic" and encouraging federal workers to quit through a mass buyout instead of facing future culling has been suspended by a judge on Thursday (Feb 6). This comes as 40,000 people have already taken up the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Watch | India signed 10-year deal with Iran to operate Chabahar Port, Trump scraps waiver
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US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) over its "baseless" investigations against America and its allies, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Meanwhile, the Greek island of Santorini has declared a state of emergency after persistent earthquakes disrupted daily life. In the US, Donald Trump's administration has sued Chicago over its "sanctuary" laws, accusing the city of obstructing federal immigration enforcement. Finally, a judge has delayed Elon Musk's controversial 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees, which has already seen 40,000 workers accept the offer. Click on the headlines for more Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 6) signed an executive order slapping sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for issuing an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, a close US ally. Santorini earthquakes: State of emergency declared; Israel prepares for tsunami The Greek island of Santorini, a popular tourist spot, declared a state of emergency on Thursday (Feb 6) after the strongest earthquake of 5.2 magnitude was recorded on Wednesday evening. The recent unprecedented near-constant tremors have disrupted life on the island. 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws Donald Trump administration sued Chicago on Thursday (Feb 6) alleging that the "sanctuary" laws of the city tried blocking the efforts of the US President to deport illegal migrants. The lawsuit aimed at overturning measures in the city that prohibit police from arresting individuals based on their immigration status. US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees Elon Musk's scheme to slash the size of the US government by instilling "panic" and encouraging federal workers to quit through a mass buyout instead of facing future culling has been suspended by a judge on Thursday (Feb 6). This comes as 40,000 people have already taken up the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Watch | India signed 10-year deal with Iran to operate Chabahar Port, Trump scraps waiver

Morning news brief: Trump imposes sanctions on ICC; Santorini earthquakes, and more

Elon Musk's scheme to slash the size of the US government by instilling "panic" and encouraging federal workers to quit through a mass buyout instead of facing future culling was suspended by a judge on Thursday (Feb 6). This comes as 40,000 people have already taken up the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
A federal judge in the state of Massachusetts has ordered a temporary injunction that delays the plan's deadline from Thursday midnight to Monday (Feb 10). The decision was delivered by US District Judge George O'Toole during a hearing in an appeal brought by US labour unions.
<h2>What was going to happen on midnight Thursday?</h2>
Thursday (Feb 7) midnight was the earlier deadline by which more than two million federal government employees were supposed to decide whether they'll resign with eight months' pay or risk being fired in future culls.
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>
Already, over 40,000 staff have accepted the buyout deal, reports AFP. However, unions representing around 800,000 civil servants and Democratic members of the US Congress are resisting the scheme and have challenged the legality of the Trump administration's threat to fire them.
<h2>What does Musk have to do with this?</h2>
Musk, a close Donald Trump ally was roped in to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump 2.0 administration and is believed to be the mastermind behind this money-cutting scheme.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-team-has-read-only-access-to-payments-data-says-us-treasury-department-8694317">Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department</a>
(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;
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A US judge has temporarily halted Elon Musk's controversial buyout plan for federal employees, delaying the deadline aimed at reducing government workforce size.

Elon Musk's scheme to slash the size of the US government by instilling "panic" and encouraging federal workers to quit through a mass buyout instead of facing future culling was suspended by a judge on Thursday (Feb 6). This comes as 40,000 people have already taken up the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Also read | 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws A federal judge in the state of Massachusetts has ordered a temporary injunction that delays the plan's deadline from Thursday midnight to Monday (Feb 10). The decision was delivered by US District Judge George O'Toole during a hearing in an appeal brought by US labour unions. What was going to happen on midnight Thursday? Thursday (Feb 7) midnight was the earlier deadline by which more than two million federal government employees were supposed to decide whether they'll resign with eight months' pay or risk being fired in future culls. Also read | Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu Already, over 40,000 staff have accepted the buyout deal, reports AFP. However, unions representing around 800,000 civil servants and Democratic members of the US Congress are resisting the scheme and have challenged the legality of the Trump administration's threat to fire them. What does Musk have to do with this? Musk, a close Donald Trump ally was roped in to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump 2.0 administration and is believed to be the mastermind behind this money-cutting scheme. Also read | Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department (With inputs from agencies)

US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees

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