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The Indian nationals,104 in total, were deported from the United States on Wednesday (Feb 5) and claimed they were handcuffed and tied with chains while being sent in the aircraft.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Trump's administration seemed to be backtracking from the proposal of the US President of taking over the Gaza as Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any transfer would be temporary.&nbsp;
Turning to Israel, a day after Donald Trump announced the US withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same.
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worse-than-hell-indian-immigrants-say-they-were-handcuffed-tied-with-chins-while-being-deported-from-us-8694632">'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants say they were handcuffed, tied with chains while being deported from US</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/06/K12mNX2qOcDawuazDNpg.png" alt=" 'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants say they were handcuffed, tied with chins while being deported from US Photograph: (PTI) ">
The Indian nationals, who were deported from the United States (US) on Wednesday (Feb 5), claimed they were chained, handcuffed and were not allowed to even use the washroom for 40 straight hours while onboard a US military aircraft.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-generous-move-donald-trump-administartion-backtracks-from-us-presidents-gaza-take-over-remark-8694608">Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark</a>
<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) ">
A day after US President Donald Trump announced his plan to take over Gaza, his administration on Wednesday (Feb 5) seem to be backtracking from his proposal.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-us-israel-announces-departure-from-anti-semitic-un-human-rights-council-8694577">After US, Israel announces departure from 'anti-semitic' UN Human Rights Council</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/06/D0cqcn2E0043r3JBCB1w.png" alt=" Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa&rsquo;ar took to the social media platform X on Wednesday (Feb 5) and said, Israel joins the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC. Photograph: (AFP/Wion Web Team) ">
A day after President Donald Trump announced the US withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/it-ends-with-us-feud-pr-firm-files-defamation-suit-against-blake-lively-8694604">It Ends With Us feud: PR firm files defamation suit against Blake Lively</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/22/472535-happy-30th-birthday-76.png" alt=" Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively Photograph: (X) ">
It Ends With Us feud: The whole legal tussle has taken a turn with a crisis management firm filing defamation suit against Hollywood actress Blake Lively. Jed Wallace of Street relations has filed the suit against Lively.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief

The Indian nationals,104 in total, were deported from the United States on Wednesday (Feb 5) and claimed they were handcuffed and tied with chains while being sent in the aircraft. Meanwhile, Trump's administration seemed to be backtracking from the proposal of the US President of taking over the Gaza as Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any transfer would be temporary. Turning to Israel, a day after Donald Trump announced the US withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same. Click on the headlines to read more 'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants say they were handcuffed, tied with chains while being deported from US The Indian nationals, who were deported from the United States (US) on Wednesday (Feb 5), claimed they were chained, handcuffed and were not allowed to even use the washroom for 40 straight hours while onboard a US military aircraft. Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark A day after US President Donald Trump announced his plan to take over Gaza, his administration on Wednesday (Feb 5) seem to be backtracking from his proposal. After US, Israel announces departure from 'anti-semitic' UN Human Rights Council A day after President Donald Trump announced the US withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same. It Ends With Us feud: PR firm files defamation suit against Blake Lively It Ends With Us feud: The whole legal tussle has taken a turn with a crisis management firm filing defamation suit against Hollywood actress Blake Lively. Jed Wallace of Street relations has filed the suit against Lively.

Morning news brief: US sent Indian immigrants 'tied in chains'; US backtracks from Trump's Gaza 'takeover' remark, and more

Trump, in a White House news conference on Tuesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stunningly proposed "long-term ownership" of Gaza by the United States, triggering an international uproar.
The remarks came after he has repeatedly called in recent days for the war-ravaged territory's residents to move to Jordan or Egypt.
"At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their land," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-generous-move-donald-trump-administartion-backtracks-from-us-presidents-gaza-take-over-remark-8694608">Not 'hostile': Trump administartion backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark</a>
But, he added, "we have seen the realization of those rights steadily slip farther out of reach."
"We have seen a chilling, systematic dehumanisation and demonisation of an entire people," Guterres said.
Guterres said nothing justified the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the war in Gaza but "the catalogue of destruction and unspeakable horrors" that came as Israel attacked Gaza relentlessly in reprisal could not be justified either.
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked specifically about the Trump proposal, said "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-follows-donald-trumps-lead-withdraws-from-world-health-organization-covid-19-covid-pandemic-us-covid-pandemic-handling-covid-lockdowns-8694529">Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization</a>
"It is vital that we stay true to the bedrock of international law. It is essential to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing."
After an international outcry, Trump administration officials tried Wednesday to walk back the Trump proposal, saying any displacement of the Palestinians of Gaza would be temporary while the largely destroyed territory is rebuilt.
Trump had also not committed to deploying US troops to carry out his plan, they said.
Guterres insisted on the idea of a two-state solution with Israel and the Palestinians living side by side in peace.
"Any durable peace will require tangible, irreversible and permanent progress toward the two-state solution, an end to the occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part,' he said.
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>
To that end, the Palestinian envoy to the UN Riyad Mansour called for a "successful" international conference at the United Nations to discuss the issue, scheduled for June and co-chaired by Saudia Arabia and France.
Even with large parts of Gaza's north in ruins, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have returned since late January, under a fragile truce that has halted more than 15 months of war.
Gaza's north, which includes Gaza City, has been devastated by Israel's military offensive launched after Hamas's 2023 attack, with homes, hospitals, schools and almost all civil infrastructure flattened.
Mansour reiterated Palestinians' rejection of Trump's plan to take over Gaza.
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-gaza-remarks-muslim-leaders-denounce-takeover-plan-8694579">Trump's Gaza remarks: Muslim leaders denounce 'takeover' plan</a>
"We are not going to leave Gaza," he said. "It is part of our homeland, and we don't have a homeland other than the State of Palestine." He added that Palestinians would be "delighted" to return to their homes in present-day Israel from where they were "kicked from."
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | The remarks came after he has repeatedly called in recent days for the war-ravaged territory's residents to move to Jordan or Egypt.

Trump, in a White House news conference on Tuesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stunningly proposed "long-term ownership" of Gaza by the United States, triggering an international uproar. The remarks came after he has repeatedly called in recent days for the war-ravaged territory's residents to move to Jordan or Egypt. "At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their land," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians. Also read: Not 'hostile': Trump administartion backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark But, he added, "we have seen the realization of those rights steadily slip farther out of reach." "We have seen a chilling, systematic dehumanisation and demonisation of an entire people," Guterres said. Guterres said nothing justified the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the war in Gaza but "the catalogue of destruction and unspeakable horrors" that came as Israel attacked Gaza relentlessly in reprisal could not be justified either. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked specifically about the Trump proposal, said "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing." Also read: Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization "It is vital that we stay true to the bedrock of international law. It is essential to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing." After an international outcry, Trump administration officials tried Wednesday to walk back the Trump proposal, saying any displacement of the Palestinians of Gaza would be temporary while the largely destroyed territory is rebuilt. Trump had also not committed to deploying US troops to carry out his plan, they said. Guterres insisted on the idea of a two-state solution with Israel and the Palestinians living side by side in peace. "Any durable peace will require tangible, irreversible and permanent progress toward the two-state solution, an end to the occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part,' he said. Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports To that end, the Palestinian envoy to the UN Riyad Mansour called for a "successful" international conference at the United Nations to discuss the issue, scheduled for June and co-chaired by Saudia Arabia and France. Even with large parts of Gaza's north in ruins, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have returned since late January, under a fragile truce that has halted more than 15 months of war. Gaza's north, which includes Gaza City, has been devastated by Israel's military offensive launched after Hamas's 2023 attack, with homes, hospitals, schools and almost all civil infrastructure flattened. Mansour reiterated Palestinians' rejection of Trump's plan to take over Gaza. WATCH: Trump's Gaza remarks: Muslim leaders denounce 'takeover' plan "We are not going to leave Gaza," he said. "It is part of our homeland, and we don't have a homeland other than the State of Palestine." He added that Palestinians would be "delighted" to return to their homes in present-day Israel from where they were "kicked from." 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.

'Systematic dehumanisation': UN chief warns against 'ethnic cleansing' of Gaza after Trump's remark

War-displaced Palestinians finally back to the Gaza Strip's devastated north told AFP on Wednesday that they would never agree to give up the territory as US President Donald Trump has suggested.
Trump, in a White House news conference on Tuesday along with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, proposed "long-term ownership" of Gaza by the United States, days after another shock suggestion, that the territory's residents should move to Jordan or Egypt.
"We only have one choice: to live or die here", said Ahmed Halasa, a 41-year-old resident of Gaza City, standing by the ruins of a toppled building.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-generous-move-donald-trump-administartion-backtracks-from-us-presidents-gaza-take-over-remark-8694608">Not 'hostile': Trump administartion backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark</a>
Even with large parts of territory's north in ruins, hundreds of thousands of Gazans have returned since late January, part of a fragile truce that has halted more than 15 months of war between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas.
"We returned despite the massive destruction and despite the lack of infrastructure, water and basic necessities," said Ahmed al-Minawi, 24, who is back with his family in Gaza City.
"We returned because we categorically reject displacement," he said.
To Halasa, "they can do whatever they want to do, but we will remain steadfast in our homeland."
Gaza's north, which includes Gaza City, has been particularly hard hit by the fighting throughout the war and especially since Israel launched a major offensive in the area in October.
Many of those who have recently returned have found their homes in ruins, pitching tents by the rubble and staying there.
Like 36-year-old Badri Akram, all Palestinians AFP spoke to strongly rejected Trump's suggestions that they should leave Gaza.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worse-than-hell-indian-immigrants-say-they-were-handcuffed-tied-with-chins-while-being-deported-from-us-8694632">'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants say they were handcuffed, tied with chains while being deported from US</a>
"You see, my house was destroyed, but I can sleep on the rubble", said Akram, pointing to the ruins behind him.
Trump also floated the idea to create "the Riviera of the Middle East" in a rebuilt Gaza, but for Palestinians, the most crucial part of his proposal had to do with their feared displacement.
Any attempts to force them out of Gaza would evoke dark memories of what the Arab world calls the "Nakba", or catastrophe -- the mass displacement of Palestinians during Israel's creation in 1948.
"We have been fighting displacement since 1948", said Minawi.
The UN's World Food Programme said that within just a few days, some 500,000 people had returned to Gaza's north.
On Wednesday, Gaza City's streets were again bustling with activity, with vendors lining the roads and cars driving around alongside pedestrians.
In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, which is separated from Gaza by Israeli territory, Palestinians were equally outraged by talk of displacement.
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>
"We will not leave our land even if they brought all the tanks in the world," said Umm Muhammad al-Baytar, a resident of Ramallah.
"Not even air strikes could force them to leave," the pensioner said of her compatriots in the Gaza Strip.
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.

Palestinians in Gaza firmly reject Trump's proposal for US ownership, emphasizing their determination to remain in their homeland despite ongoing challenges.

War-displaced Palestinians finally back to the Gaza Strip's devastated north told AFP on Wednesday that they would never agree to give up the territory as US President Donald Trump has suggested. Trump, in a White House news conference on Tuesday along with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, proposed "long-term ownership" of Gaza by the United States, days after another shock suggestion, that the territory's residents should move to Jordan or Egypt. "We only have one choice: to live or die here", said Ahmed Halasa, a 41-year-old resident of Gaza City, standing by the ruins of a toppled building. Also read | Not 'hostile': Trump administartion backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark Even with large parts of territory's north in ruins, hundreds of thousands of Gazans have returned since late January, part of a fragile truce that has halted more than 15 months of war between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas. "We returned despite the massive destruction and despite the lack of infrastructure, water and basic necessities," said Ahmed al-Minawi, 24, who is back with his family in Gaza City. "We returned because we categorically reject displacement," he said. To Halasa, "they can do whatever they want to do, but we will remain steadfast in our homeland." Gaza's north, which includes Gaza City, has been particularly hard hit by the fighting throughout the war and especially since Israel launched a major offensive in the area in October. Many of those who have recently returned have found their homes in ruins, pitching tents by the rubble and staying there. Like 36-year-old Badri Akram, all Palestinians AFP spoke to strongly rejected Trump's suggestions that they should leave Gaza. Also read | 'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants say they were handcuffed, tied with chains while being deported from US "You see, my house was destroyed, but I can sleep on the rubble", said Akram, pointing to the ruins behind him. Trump also floated the idea to create "the Riviera of the Middle East" in a rebuilt Gaza, but for Palestinians, the most crucial part of his proposal had to do with their feared displacement. Any attempts to force them out of Gaza would evoke dark memories of what the Arab world calls the "Nakba", or catastrophe -- the mass displacement of Palestinians during Israel's creation in 1948. "We have been fighting displacement since 1948", said Minawi. The UN's World Food Programme said that within just a few days, some 500,000 people had returned to Gaza's north. On Wednesday, Gaza City's streets were again bustling with activity, with vendors lining the roads and cars driving around alongside pedestrians. In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, which is separated from Gaza by Israeli territory, Palestinians were equally outraged by talk of displacement. Also read | 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports "We will not leave our land even if they brought all the tanks in the world," said Umm Muhammad al-Baytar, a resident of Ramallah. "Not even air strikes could force them to leave," the pensioner said of her compatriots in the Gaza Strip. 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.

Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland'

A day after US President Donald Trump announced his plan to take over Gaza, his administration on Wednesday (Feb 5) seemed to backtrack from his proposal. Amid global criticism of the American president's plan, Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio tried to placate the situation, insisting any transfer would be temporary. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt assured US citizens that their money would not fund the reconstruction of Gaza which has been battered by a war for 15 months.
On Tuesday (Feb 4) Trump declared that "The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it, too. We'll own it," to audible gasps during a White House press conference.&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>A 'generous move'</h2>
Facing a wave of criticism from world leaders, Palestinians, and Arab governments, among others, Trump's Secretary of State Rubio said that the idea was not meant to be "hostile" and was a "generous move &mdash; the offer to rebuild and to be in charge of the rebuilding". &nbsp;
Trump insists that "everybody loves" the plan, but White House Press Secretary Leavitt had to elaborate on Rubio's comment and reassure Americans that Washington, or rather their tax money, would not fund Gaza's reconstruction.
US involvement "does not mean boots on the ground" or that "American taxpayers will be funding this effort", said Leavitt.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-follows-donald-trumps-lead-withdraws-from-world-health-organization-covid-19-covid-pandemic-us-covid-pandemic-handling-covid-lockdowns-8694529">Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization</a>
<h2>'Ethnic cleansing'?</h2>
Trump's proposal was labelled an attempt at "ethnic cleansing" by the United Nations.
In a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians, Secretary-General Ant&oacute;nio Guterres said, "At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their own land".
The UN chief's spokesperson St&eacute;phane Dujarric, previewing Guterres's speech, told the press: "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-key-barriers-to-trumps-gaza-control-plan-8694375">Five key barriers to Trump&rsquo;s Gaza control plan</a>
Meanwhile, France President Emanuel Macron and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also said that any forced displacement of the Palestinians would be unacceptable. &nbsp; "It would be a serious violation of international law, an obstacle to the two-state solution and a major destabilising force for Egypt and Jordan," they said, according to a statement from the French president's office.&nbsp;
Watch | PM Netanyahu, Israelis welcome Trump's plan to empty out Gaza
<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/0602_WION_TRUMP_GAZA_TAKEOVER_7AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0602_WION_TRUMP_GAZA_TAKEOVER_7AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=233&amp;tags=donald trump, gaza, netanyahu" title="PM Netanyahu, Israelis welcome Trump's plan to empty out Gaza" id="PL_iframe_block-m6sro34v-ro7tduui-dx346fxv"></iframe>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Discover how Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attempt to calm tensions by clarifying Donald Trump's proposed Gaza take over.

A day after US President Donald Trump announced his plan to take over Gaza, his administration on Wednesday (Feb 5) seemed to backtrack from his proposal. Amid global criticism of the American president's plan, Trump's Secretary of State Marco Rubio tried to placate the situation, insisting any transfer would be temporary. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt assured US citizens that their money would not fund the reconstruction of Gaza which has been battered by a war for 15 months. On Tuesday (Feb 4) Trump declared that "The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it, too. We'll own it," to audible gasps during a White House press conference. Also read | 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports A 'generous move' Facing a wave of criticism from world leaders, Palestinians, and Arab governments, among others, Trump's Secretary of State Rubio said that the idea was not meant to be "hostile" and was a "generous move — the offer to rebuild and to be in charge of the rebuilding". Trump insists that "everybody loves" the plan, but White House Press Secretary Leavitt had to elaborate on Rubio's comment and reassure Americans that Washington, or rather their tax money, would not fund Gaza's reconstruction. US involvement "does not mean boots on the ground" or that "American taxpayers will be funding this effort", said Leavitt. Also read | Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization 'Ethnic cleansing'? Trump's proposal was labelled an attempt at "ethnic cleansing" by the United Nations. In a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians, Secretary-General António Guterres said, "At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their own land". The UN chief's spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, previewing Guterres's speech, told the press: "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing." Also read | Five key barriers to Trump’s Gaza control plan Meanwhile, France President Emanuel Macron and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also said that any forced displacement of the Palestinians would be unacceptable. "It would be a serious violation of international law, an obstacle to the two-state solution and a major destabilising force for Egypt and Jordan," they said, according to a statement from the French president's office. Watch | PM Netanyahu, Israelis welcome Trump's plan to empty out Gaza (With inputs from agencies)

Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark

The Indian nationals, who were deported from the United States (US) on Wednesday (Feb 5), claimed they were chained, handcuffed and were not allowed to even use the washroom for 40 straight hours while onboard a US military aircraft. &nbsp;
Among the 104 deportees, 19 were women and 13 minors. They landed in Amritsar, a city in the Indian state of Punjab. The deportees said their feet were tied with chains and they were mistreated by the crew in the aircraft.&nbsp;
Calling the travel "worse than hell," a 40-year-old man Harwinder Singh said, After repeated requests, we were allowed to drag ourselves to the washroom. The crew would open the door of the lavatory and shove us in," Indian Express reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-salvadors-nayib-bukele-mega-prison-americas-worst-criminals-illegal-immigrants-us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-us-president-donald-trump-8690813">El Salvador's &lsquo;mega-prison&rsquo; to take in America&rsquo;s worst criminals, illegal immigrants but 'for a price'</a>
He said people could not eat properly for 40 hours as they were forced to eat with their hands tied. He said the entire journey was exhausting not only physically but also mentally.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-homeland-security-agents-raid-gurdwaras-in-new-york-and-new-jersey-for-illegal-immigrants-8658517">US Homeland Security agents raid gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey for illegal immigrants</a>
"We thought we were being taken to another camp. Then a police officer told us that we were being taken to India. We were handcuffed, and our legs were chained. These were opened at Amritsar airport," a 36-year-old man from Punjab&rsquo;s Gurdaspur, Jaspal Singh told the news agency PTI.
But on Wednesday (Feb 5), after images of handcuffed immigrants went viral claiming they were Indians, the government fact-checked and said they were in reality Guatemalan nationals.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6sxx1da-zzjgz6pn-hix5n86i">
A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fake</a> image is being shared on social media by many accounts with a claim that illegal Indian migrants have been handcuffed and their legs chained while being deported by US<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PIBFactCheck?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PIBFactCheck</a> ▶️ The image being shared in these posts does not pertain to Indians. Instead it shows&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/9bD9eYkjVO">pic.twitter.com/9bD9eYkjVO</a>
&mdash; PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBFactCheck/status/1887148007092809815?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-illegal-immigrants-us-president-donald-trump-illegal-overstaying-in-us-8651283">'Will bring them back': India responds after US launches crackdown on illegal immigrants</a>
The US military plane C-17 took off from San Antonio on Wednesday (Feb 5) Texas carrying 104 illegal immigrants belonging to Punjab and neighbouring states. This was the first deportation to India under the presidency of Donald Trump.&nbsp;
According to PTI, 29 of the deportees are from Punjab, 33 each from Haryana and Gujarat, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh and two from Chandigarh.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/illegal-criminals-donald-trumps-administration-arrests-500-illegal-immigrants-over-300-deported-us-president-on-border-security-8650219">'Message to world': White House shares pictures of deportation flights after Trump administration arrests 500 illegal immigrants</a>
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US military plane carrying illegal Indian immigrants lands in Amritsar . . . . Read more: <a href="https://t.co/XsnhGM53IP">https://t.co/XsnhGM53IP</a> <a href="https://t.co/BDudnY51qK">pic.twitter.com/BDudnY51qK</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1887060992229773602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India News | A group of deportees, including women and minors, recently arrived in Amritsar, Punjab. This event highlights ongoing immigration issues between India and other nations.

The Indian nationals, who were deported from the United States (US) on Wednesday (Feb 5), claimed they were chained, handcuffed and were not allowed to even use the washroom for 40 straight hours while onboard a US military aircraft. Among the 104 deportees, 19 were women and 13 minors. They landed in Amritsar, a city in the Indian state of Punjab. The deportees said their feet were tied with chains and they were mistreated by the crew in the aircraft. Calling the travel "worse than hell," a 40-year-old man Harwinder Singh said, After repeated requests, we were allowed to drag ourselves to the washroom. The crew would open the door of the lavatory and shove us in," Indian Express reported. Also read: El Salvador's ‘mega-prison’ to take in America’s worst criminals, illegal immigrants but 'for a price' He said people could not eat properly for 40 hours as they were forced to eat with their hands tied. He said the entire journey was exhausting not only physically but also mentally. Also read: US Homeland Security agents raid gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey for illegal immigrants "We thought we were being taken to another camp. Then a police officer told us that we were being taken to India. We were handcuffed, and our legs were chained. These were opened at Amritsar airport," a 36-year-old man from Punjab’s Gurdaspur, Jaspal Singh told the news agency PTI. But on Wednesday (Feb 5), after images of handcuffed immigrants went viral claiming they were Indians, the government fact-checked and said they were in reality Guatemalan nationals. A #Fake image is being shared on social media by many accounts with a claim that illegal Indian migrants have been handcuffed and their legs chained while being deported by US#PIBFactCheck ▶️ The image being shared in these posts does not pertain to Indians. Instead it shows… pic.twitter.com/9bD9eYkjVO — PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) February 5, 2025 Also read: 'Will bring them back': India responds after US launches crackdown on illegal immigrants The US military plane C-17 took off from San Antonio on Wednesday (Feb 5) Texas carrying 104 illegal immigrants belonging to Punjab and neighbouring states. This was the first deportation to India under the presidency of Donald Trump. According to PTI, 29 of the deportees are from Punjab, 33 each from Haryana and Gujarat, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh and two from Chandigarh. Also read: 'Message to world': White House shares pictures of deportation flights after Trump administration arrests 500 illegal immigrants US military plane carrying illegal Indian immigrants lands in Amritsar . . . . Read more: https://t.co/XsnhGM53IP pic.twitter.com/BDudnY51qK — WION (@WIONews) February 5, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants claim they were handcuffed, tied with chains while being deported from US

A day after President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of US from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa&rsquo;ar took to the social media platform X on Wednesday (Feb 5) and said, "Israel joins the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-as-trump-pulls-a-chair-for-netanyahu-netizens-ask-whos-president-of-united-states-8693346">Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?'</a>
He alleged that UNHRC has "traditionally protected" those who violate human rights.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The UNHRC has traditionally protected human rights abusers by allowing them to hide from scrutiny, and instead obsessively demonizes the one democracy in the Middle East - Israel,&rdquo; said Sa&rsquo;ar.&nbsp;
He further accused the body of attacking democracy and being antisemitic. &ldquo;Israel will not accept this discrimination any longer!&rdquo; Sa&rsquo;ar said.&nbsp;
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Israel welcomes President Trump&rsquo;s decision not to participate in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Israel joins the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC. The UNHRC has traditionally protected human rights abusers by allowing them to hide from scrutiny, and&hellip;
&mdash; Gideon Sa'ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) <a href="https://twitter.com/gidonsaar/status/1887190864218210732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
He shared some data in his post claiming that under the UNHRC, Israel has been subject to more than 100 condemnatory resolutions, which is over 20 per cent of all the resolutions passed in the body.&nbsp;
The announcement came when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the US and attended a press conference with him in Washington.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-was-a-great-operation-trump-says-as-netanyahu-gifts-us-president-a-golden-pager-8693078">&lsquo;That was a great operation&rsquo;: Trump says as Netanyahu gifts golden pager to US president</a>
<h2>America's departure from 'anti-semitic' UNHRC&nbsp;</h2>
Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) announced in a press conference that America is departing from "anti-semitic" UNHRC and UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency).&nbsp;
"I'm also pleased to announce that this afternoon the United States withdrew from the anti-semitic UN Human Rights Council and ended all of the support for the UN Relief and Works Agency, which funnelled money to Hamas and which was very disloyal to humanity. Today I also took action to restore our maximum pressure policy on the Iranian regime. And we will once again enforce the most aggressive possible sanctions, drive Iranian oil exports to zero, and diminish the regime's capacity to fund terrorism.
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-netanyahu-meet-trump-says-us-will-take-over-gaza-strip-8692435">Trump Netanyahu meet: Trump says US 'will take over Gaza Strip'</a>
"I'm also pleased to announce that this afternoon the United States withdrew from the anti-semitic UN Human Rights Council and ended all of the support for the UN Relief and Works Agency, which funnelled money to Hamas and which was very disloyal to humanity," Trump said in the announcement.&nbsp;
"Today I also took action to restore our maximum pressure policy on the Iranian regime. And we will once again enforce the most aggressive possible sanctions, drive Iranian oil exports to zero, and diminish the regime's capacity to fund terror throughout the region and the world," he added.
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-envisions-long-term-us-ownership-of-gaza-netanyahu-praises-trumps-stance-8691603">Trump envisions long-term US ownership of Gaza, Netanyahu praises Trump's stance</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | A day after President Donald Trump announced the US withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same.

A day after President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of US from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel said it would join Trump and do the same. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar took to the social media platform X on Wednesday (Feb 5) and said, "Israel joins the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC." Also read: Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?' He alleged that UNHRC has "traditionally protected" those who violate human rights. “The UNHRC has traditionally protected human rights abusers by allowing them to hide from scrutiny, and instead obsessively demonizes the one democracy in the Middle East - Israel,” said Sa’ar. He further accused the body of attacking democracy and being antisemitic. “Israel will not accept this discrimination any longer!” Sa’ar said. Israel welcomes President Trump’s decision not to participate in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Israel joins the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC. The UNHRC has traditionally protected human rights abusers by allowing them to hide from scrutiny, and… — Gideon Sa'ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) February 5, 2025 He shared some data in his post claiming that under the UNHRC, Israel has been subject to more than 100 condemnatory resolutions, which is over 20 per cent of all the resolutions passed in the body. The announcement came when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the US and attended a press conference with him in Washington. Also read: ‘That was a great operation’: Trump says as Netanyahu gifts golden pager to US president America's departure from 'anti-semitic' UNHRC Trump on Tuesday (Feb 4) announced in a press conference that America is departing from "anti-semitic" UNHRC and UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency). "I'm also pleased to announce that this afternoon the United States withdrew from the anti-semitic UN Human Rights Council and ended all of the support for the UN Relief and Works Agency, which funnelled money to Hamas and which was very disloyal to humanity. Today I also took action to restore our maximum pressure policy on the Iranian regime. And we will once again enforce the most aggressive possible sanctions, drive Iranian oil exports to zero, and diminish the regime's capacity to fund terrorism. WATCH: Trump Netanyahu meet: Trump says US 'will take over Gaza Strip' "I'm also pleased to announce that this afternoon the United States withdrew from the anti-semitic UN Human Rights Council and ended all of the support for the UN Relief and Works Agency, which funnelled money to Hamas and which was very disloyal to humanity," Trump said in the announcement. "Today I also took action to restore our maximum pressure policy on the Iranian regime. And we will once again enforce the most aggressive possible sanctions, drive Iranian oil exports to zero, and diminish the regime's capacity to fund terror throughout the region and the world," he added. WATCH: Trump envisions long-term US ownership of Gaza, Netanyahu praises Trump's stance (With inputs from agencies)

After US, Israel announces departure from 'anti-semitic' UN Human Rights Council

'Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery,' and Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump &mdash; whom Milei openly admires &mdash; pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. Milei seems to be trying his damnedest to flatter US President Donald Trump. On Wednesday (Feb 5), the ultraconservative Argentinian President announced that following in America's footsteps, his nation is also withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO).
<h2>A mirror copy?</h2>
Echoing Donald Trump's criticism of the UN agency's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melei lamented about the Covid lockdowns, which he labelled "one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity".&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-may-consider-rejoining-world-health-organization-after-signing-withdrawal-order-8654504">Donald Trump may consider rejoining World Health Organization after signing withdrawal order</a>
In his statement, President Milei lambasted the WHO as the "executing arm of what was the greatest experiment in social control in history.".&nbsp;
Milei's spokesman, Manuel Adorni, argued that the decision based on "deep differences regarding health management, especially during the pandemic," would grant Argentina greater autonomy in crafting health policies tailored to its local context. He emphasised that Argentina would not "allow an international body to interfere in our sovereignty."&nbsp;
Adorni also argued that the move would lead to "greater availability of resources," and enable "greater flexibility to implement policies adapted to the context" locally.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-executive-order-to-pull-us-out-of-world-health-organization-who-8639655">Trump signs executive order to pull US out of World Health Organization</a>
WHO data shows that across 2022 and 2023 Argentina contributed approximately $8.75 million in membership fees to the WHO but receives no funding in return. For 2024-24, the nation was slated to contribute $8.25 million. &nbsp;
Accusing the UN agency of "a lack of independence," Adorni stressed that since Argentina "does not receive funding from the WHO, so this measure does not represent a loss of funds for the country."
The WHO has not yet commented on Argentina&rsquo;s departure.
<h2>Criticism follows Argentina's decision</h2>
Critics, as per AFP, warn the withdrawal could isolate Argentina from crucial global health initiatives and leave the country vulnerable to future pandemics. Federico Merke, an international relations expert, highlighted the risk of losing access to vital information-sharing and cooperation mechanisms in health emergencies. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/world-health-organization-issues-warning-says-ai-in-healthcare-poses-risks-593037">World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused</a>
<h2>Trump's influence?</h2>
Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump &mdash; whom Milei openly admires &mdash; pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Argentina follows the footsteps of Donald Trump as President Milei announces the country's withdrawal from the World Health Organization citing autonomy in health policies.

'Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery,' and Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump — whom Milei openly admires — pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. Milei seems to be trying his damnedest to flatter US President Donald Trump. On Wednesday (Feb 5), the ultraconservative Argentinian President announced that following in America's footsteps, his nation is also withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO). A mirror copy? Echoing Donald Trump's criticism of the UN agency's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melei lamented about the Covid lockdowns, which he labelled "one of the most bizarre crimes against humanity". Also read | Donald Trump may consider rejoining World Health Organization after signing withdrawal order In his statement, President Milei lambasted the WHO as the "executing arm of what was the greatest experiment in social control in history.". Milei's spokesman, Manuel Adorni, argued that the decision based on "deep differences regarding health management, especially during the pandemic," would grant Argentina greater autonomy in crafting health policies tailored to its local context. He emphasised that Argentina would not "allow an international body to interfere in our sovereignty." Adorni also argued that the move would lead to "greater availability of resources," and enable "greater flexibility to implement policies adapted to the context" locally. Also read | Trump signs executive order to pull US out of World Health Organization WHO data shows that across 2022 and 2023 Argentina contributed approximately $8.75 million in membership fees to the WHO but receives no funding in return. For 2024-24, the nation was slated to contribute $8.25 million. Accusing the UN agency of "a lack of independence," Adorni stressed that since Argentina "does not receive funding from the WHO, so this measure does not represent a loss of funds for the country." The WHO has not yet commented on Argentina’s departure. Criticism follows Argentina's decision Critics, as per AFP, warn the withdrawal could isolate Argentina from crucial global health initiatives and leave the country vulnerable to future pandemics. Federico Merke, an international relations expert, highlighted the risk of losing access to vital information-sharing and cooperation mechanisms in health emergencies. Also read | World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused Trump's influence? Argentina's decision comes just two weeks after Trump — whom Milei openly admires — pulled America out of the WHO. The Republican US president had also cited grievances to the ones Milei voiced. (With inputs from agencies)

Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 5) signed an executive order banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a key campaign promise.
"From now on, women&rsquo;s sports will be only for women," Trump declared as he signed the order at the White House, surrounded by dozens of children and female athletes.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-key-barriers-to-trumps-gaza-control-plan-8694375">Five key barriers to Trump&rsquo;s Gaza control plan</a>
<h2>'War on women sports'</h2>
Trump, in line with his campaign narrative, exclaimed "With this executive order the war on women's sports is over," as he signed the 'No Men in Women's Sports Executive Order'.
"We will defend the proud tradition of female athletes, and we will not allow men to beat up, injure and cheat our women and our girls," he added to applause and cheers.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-gaza-fantasy-diplomacy-sparks-fury-among-arab-states-8694243">Trump's Gaza fantasy diplomacy sparks fury among Arab states</a>
<h2>How will the order work?</h2>
The order empowers federal agencies to withhold funding from schools that permit transgender athletes to compete in women&rsquo;s sports.
"If you let men take over women's sports teams or invade your locker rooms, you will be investigated... and risk your federal funding," said Trump vowing to extend the initiative globally.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-judge-temporary-halts-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order-8694258">Federal judge temporarily halts Trump&rsquo;s birthright citizenship order</a>
The US President, as per APF, announced plans to pressure the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to revise its rules on transgender athletes before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He said that he has ordered his Secretary of State Marco Rubio to "make it clear" to the IOC that "we want them to change everything having to do with the Olympics and having to do with this absolutely ridiculous subject."
Furthermore, he has instructed Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem to reject visa applications "made by men attempting to fraudulently enter the United States while identifying themselves as women athletes to try and get into the Games."
Watch | Trump faces backlash as egg prices defy promises
<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/0502_WION_EGG_9PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0502_WION_EGG_9PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=147&amp;tags=us, egg, egg prices, donald trump, gravitas," title="Trump faces backlash as egg prices defy promises " id="PL_iframe_block-m6sn5cn8-9cbtx8xi-4q5gx9t4"></iframe>
<h2>Trump's war against 'transgender ideology'</h2>
Since his inauguration, the Republican has repeatedly targeted gender non-conforming people in a blitz of orders that push radical right-wing agenda.
During his inauguration speech, he announced that America will now only recognise two genders: Male and Female. Days later, he signed an order banning transgender troops from the military. He has since also ordered a restriction on gender transition procedures for people under the age of 19.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Discover the latest executive order by Trump banning transgender athletes from women's sports, a move supposedly aimed at protecting female athletes' rights and integrity.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 5) signed an executive order banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a key campaign promise. "From now on, women’s sports will be only for women," Trump declared as he signed the order at the White House, surrounded by dozens of children and female athletes. Also read | Five key barriers to Trump’s Gaza control plan 'War on women sports' Trump, in line with his campaign narrative, exclaimed "With this executive order the war on women's sports is over," as he signed the 'No Men in Women's Sports Executive Order'. "We will defend the proud tradition of female athletes, and we will not allow men to beat up, injure and cheat our women and our girls," he added to applause and cheers. Also read | Trump's Gaza fantasy diplomacy sparks fury among Arab states How will the order work? The order empowers federal agencies to withhold funding from schools that permit transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports. "If you let men take over women's sports teams or invade your locker rooms, you will be investigated... and risk your federal funding," said Trump vowing to extend the initiative globally. Also read | Federal judge temporarily halts Trump’s birthright citizenship order The US President, as per APF, announced plans to pressure the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to revise its rules on transgender athletes before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He said that he has ordered his Secretary of State Marco Rubio to "make it clear" to the IOC that "we want them to change everything having to do with the Olympics and having to do with this absolutely ridiculous subject." Furthermore, he has instructed Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem to reject visa applications "made by men attempting to fraudulently enter the United States while identifying themselves as women athletes to try and get into the Games." Watch | Trump faces backlash as egg prices defy promises Trump's war against 'transgender ideology' Since his inauguration, the Republican has repeatedly targeted gender non-conforming people in a blitz of orders that push radical right-wing agenda. During his inauguration speech, he announced that America will now only recognise two genders: Male and Female. Days later, he signed an order banning transgender troops from the military. He has since also ordered a restriction on gender transition procedures for people under the age of 19. (With inputs from agencies)

'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports

US President Donald Trump's recent announcement about his intention to 'take over' Gaza has sparked a wave of backlash and highlighted several significant challenges. Take a look:
<h2>Palestinian connection to Gaza</h2>
Trump's plan overlooks the deep-rooted connection Palestinians have to Gaza. Riyad Mansour, Palestine&rsquo;s envoy to the UN, made it clear: "Our homeland is our homeland," adding that Palestinians should be allowed to return to their original homes inside Israel if needed.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-only-put-oil-on-the-fire-trumps-proposal-for-gaza-take-over-faces-international-backlash-8694036">&lsquo;Will only put oil on the fire&rsquo;: Trump&rsquo;s proposal for Gaza takeover faces international backlash</a>
<h2>Strong Arab opposition</h2>
Arab nations have strongly opposed Trump's proposal. Countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE condemned the plan, insisting that it undermines Palestinian rights.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-judge-temporary-halts-trumps-birthright-citizenship-order-8694258">Federal judge temporarily halts Trump&rsquo;s birthright citizenship order</a>
<h2>US Troops in Gaza?</h2>
One of the most controversial aspects of Trump's plan is sending US troops to Gaza, a move that would contradict his campaign promise of avoiding foreign military conflicts.&nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exaggerated-trump-on-reports-of-us-blowing-iran-into-smithereens-calls-for-nuclear-peace-agreement-8693927"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exaggerated-trump-on-reports-of-us-blowing-iran-into-smithereens-calls-for-nuclear-peace-agreement-8693927">'Exaggerated': Trump on reports of US blowing Iran into smithereens, calls for 'nuclear peace agreement'</a>
<h2>Violation of international law</h2>
&nbsp;Trump&rsquo;s proposal would violate international law, specifically the rights of people under occupation. Experts note that control over Gaza can only be transferred with the consent of the sovereign authority, and neither Israel nor the Palestinian Authority can legally cede Gaza to the US.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-tortured-executed-own-fighters-over-same-sex-relations-secret-documents-reveal-report-8694251">Hamas 'tortured, executed' own fighters over same-sex relations, secret documents reveal: Report</a>
<h2>Israeli politics</h2>
While some Israeli leaders, particularly those on the far-right, have praised Trump&rsquo;s proposal, others within the Israeli political spectrum have expressed caution.&nbsp;
David Khalfa, a researcher at the Fondation Jean-Jaures in Paris said, "The far right is ecstatic, jubilant,"
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Donald Trump's recent announcement about his intention to 'take over' Gaza has sparked a wave of backlash. Arab nations have strongly opposed Trump's proposal.  

US President Donald Trump's recent announcement about his intention to 'take over' Gaza has sparked a wave of backlash and highlighted several significant challenges. Take a look: Palestinian connection to Gaza Trump's plan overlooks the deep-rooted connection Palestinians have to Gaza. Riyad Mansour, Palestine’s envoy to the UN, made it clear: "Our homeland is our homeland," adding that Palestinians should be allowed to return to their original homes inside Israel if needed. Also Read | ‘Will only put oil on the fire’: Trump’s proposal for Gaza takeover faces international backlash Strong Arab opposition Arab nations have strongly opposed Trump's proposal. Countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE condemned the plan, insisting that it undermines Palestinian rights. Also Read | Federal judge temporarily halts Trump’s birthright citizenship order US Troops in Gaza? One of the most controversial aspects of Trump's plan is sending US troops to Gaza, a move that would contradict his campaign promise of avoiding foreign military conflicts. Also Read | 'Exaggerated': Trump on reports of US blowing Iran into smithereens, calls for 'nuclear peace agreement' Violation of international law Trump’s proposal would violate international law, specifically the rights of people under occupation. Experts note that control over Gaza can only be transferred with the consent of the sovereign authority, and neither Israel nor the Palestinian Authority can legally cede Gaza to the US. Also Read | Hamas 'tortured, executed' own fighters over same-sex relations, secret documents reveal: Report Israeli politics While some Israeli leaders, particularly those on the far-right, have praised Trump’s proposal, others within the Israeli political spectrum have expressed caution. David Khalfa, a researcher at the Fondation Jean-Jaures in Paris said, "The far right is ecstatic, jubilant," (With inputs from agencies)

Five key barriers to Trump’s Gaza control plan

As countries across the world continue to ban the usage of Chinese artificial intelligence DeepSeek, South Korea's industry ministry has become the latest government to restrict DeepSeek's access.&nbsp;
The ministry issued a temporary ban on employees' access to the AI service and urged ministries and agencies to exercise caution when using generative AI technologies like DeepSeek and ChatGPT.&nbsp;
The decision by South Korea is followed by several other nations, who have raised concerns over data security and the possibility of foreign influence through AI technologies.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-finance-ministry-bans-employees-from-using-chatgpt-deepseek-report-8692452">Indian Finance Ministry bans employees from using ChatGPT, DeepSeek: Report</a>
Prior to this, state-run Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power blocked access to DeepSeek and other generative AI services.&nbsp;
<h2>Australia</h2>
In the line of countries, banning the use of Chinese AI, Australia also banned the use of DeepSeek as its government took action against the app's services and banned its use in government systems and devices, citing national security risks.&nbsp;
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasised that the decision was based on concerns about the potential threats DeepSeek poses to Australia&rsquo;s national security, rather than the company's Chinese origins.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-bans-employees-from-using-deepseek-over-potential-security-risks-8679250">US Congress bans employees from using DeepSeek over potential security risks</a>
<h2>India</h2>
Indian Finance Ministry on Wednesday, asked employees to stop the use of Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official purposes citing sensitive government data, Reuters reported.&nbsp;
The ministry repeatedly said the use of such platforms breaches the confidentiality of government documents and data.&nbsp;
<h2>Taiwan&nbsp;</h2>
Taiwan also restricted government agencies and critical infrastructure providers from using DeepSeek, citing concerns over cross-border data transmission and the risk of information leaks.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-restricts-access-to-chinese-ai-app-deepseek-opens-probe-8677551">Italy restricts access to Chinese AI app &lsquo;DeepSeek&rsquo;, opens probe</a>
The Ministry of Digital Affairs stressed that the AI tool threatens national information security due to its links to Chinese authorities.
<h2>Italy</h2>
Italy's privacy regulator blocked DeepSeek for protecting consumer data and launched an investigation into the company's data collection practices.&nbsp;
<h2>United States</h2>
The US Department of Defense also blocked the access to DeepSeek last month. The Chief Administrative Officer said that DeepSeek is currently under review and unauthorised for official House use.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-looking-for-ai-winners-tracking-deepseek-success-8670201">India looking for AI winners tracking Deepseek success</a>
It further highlighted the risks associated with the Chinese AI bot and cited examples where "threat actors are already exploiting" the chatbot to deliver malicious software and infect devices.
Moreover, Belgium, France, and Ireland also banned the usage of the Chinese AI DeepSeek.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The ministry issued a temporary ban on employees' access to the AI service, urging ministries and agencies to exercise caution when using generative AI technologies.  

As countries across the world continue to ban the usage of Chinese artificial intelligence DeepSeek, South Korea's industry ministry has become the latest government to restrict DeepSeek's access. The ministry issued a temporary ban on employees' access to the AI service and urged ministries and agencies to exercise caution when using generative AI technologies like DeepSeek and ChatGPT. The decision by South Korea is followed by several other nations, who have raised concerns over data security and the possibility of foreign influence through AI technologies. Also read: Indian Finance Ministry bans employees from using ChatGPT, DeepSeek: Report Prior to this, state-run Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power blocked access to DeepSeek and other generative AI services. Australia In the line of countries, banning the use of Chinese AI, Australia also banned the use of DeepSeek as its government took action against the app's services and banned its use in government systems and devices, citing national security risks. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasised that the decision was based on concerns about the potential threats DeepSeek poses to Australia’s national security, rather than the company's Chinese origins. Also read: US Congress bans employees from using DeepSeek over potential security risks India Indian Finance Ministry on Wednesday, asked employees to stop the use of Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official purposes citing sensitive government data, Reuters reported. The ministry repeatedly said the use of such platforms breaches the confidentiality of government documents and data. Taiwan Taiwan also restricted government agencies and critical infrastructure providers from using DeepSeek, citing concerns over cross-border data transmission and the risk of information leaks. Also read: Italy restricts access to Chinese AI app ‘DeepSeek’, opens probe The Ministry of Digital Affairs stressed that the AI tool threatens national information security due to its links to Chinese authorities. Italy Italy's privacy regulator blocked DeepSeek for protecting consumer data and launched an investigation into the company's data collection practices. United States The US Department of Defense also blocked the access to DeepSeek last month. The Chief Administrative Officer said that DeepSeek is currently under review and unauthorised for official House use. Also read: India looking for AI winners tracking Deepseek success It further highlighted the risks associated with the Chinese AI bot and cited examples where "threat actors are already exploiting" the chatbot to deliver malicious software and infect devices. Moreover, Belgium, France, and Ireland also banned the usage of the Chinese AI DeepSeek. (With inputs from agencies)

From South Korea to India, eight countries that banned use of Chinese AI DeepSeek over security concerns

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou on Wednesday (Feb 5) survived a no-confidence vote in parliament, winning some breathing space after less than two months in office but still facing an uncertain future.
Bayrou, a veteran centrist named by President Emmanuel Macron in December to end months of political crisis, on Monday, used a controversial constitutional article to ram his cost-cutting budget through parliament without a vote.
"This budget is an urgent step," Bayrou told the National Assembly.
But the use of this mechanism, article 49.3 of the constitution, allows opposition parties to put forward a no-confidence motion, and the bid to topple the government was duly proposed by the hard-left France Unbowed party (LFI), backed by the Communists and the Greens.
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But while Bayrou is nowhere near having a majority in the National Assembly, the Socialists and far-right National Rally (RN) both said they would not back two no-confidence motions put forward by the hard left.
In the end, the motion concerning the budget gathered 128 votes, well short of the 289 votes needed to topple the government, which still needs approval from the upper-house Senate for the draft to become law.
A second no-confidence motion, targeted at the government's social security financing plan, was also on Wednesday's agenda and also expected to fail.&nbsp;
But observers said that Wednesday's vote, while a victory, secured little more than a reprieve for the embattled premier.
"Passive support from both the Socialists and Marine Le Pen's far-right for Bayrou will end once a 2025 budget is fully enacted in the next few days," risk analysis firm Eurasia Group said, giving a 70 per cent chance that the government would "fall in the next few months".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-banning-transgender-from-female-sports-8694059">Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">'Trigger fresh elections'</h2>
Jordan Bardella, head of the far-right RN said ahead of the vote that "we need to avoid uncertainty because many of our fellow citizens... are extremely worried about possible long-term instability".
The party's vice-president, Sebastien Chenu, said Wednesday that the RN wanted stability "until it is possible to trigger fresh elections", which could be in June, one year after the last legislative polls.
"As soon as we can go before the voters again, we must do so," he said.
Socialist leader Olivier Faure said his party decided against voting to topple the government over the budget, as it would have resulted only in France having "a prime minister further to the right".
The Socialists' stance is a major boost for Bayrou that could mark the end of a broad left-wing alliance including the Socialists and LFI party that had endured since the election campaign.
But in a symbolic move, the party leadership decided Monday to propose a separate no-confidence motion after Bayrou referred to migrants "flooding" France, using terminology previously used by the far right.
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However, this has little chance of passing as it is expected to be rejected by right-wing parties.
Bayrou's predecessor Michel Barnier was toppled in a no-confidence vote late last year, leaving France in uncharted political waters.
The survival of Bayrou's government will be a relief for Macron, who has faced calls to resign since dissolving parliament last year, but who has insisted he will stay on until the end of his term in 2027.
Many analysts and even allies are still baffled by the president's decision to call snap parliamentary elections last summer, which gave the far right its biggest-ever foothold in a divided parliament.
The cost-cutting and tax-hiking budget has proved controversial in some quarters, with France's richest man, the luxury goods mogul Bernard Arnault, denouncing a planned special corporate tax.
Budget Minister Amelie de Montchalin said the government, now in possession of a budget, would do what it takes "to meet our 5.4 per cent target" for the 2025 deficit as a percentage of GDP, after an estimated six per cent last year.
Turbulent months remain ahead in French politics.
A verdict is due in far-right leader Marine Le Pen's trial over allegations of fake EU parliament jobs -- charges she denies -- on March 31, and if convicted she could be disqualified from the 2027 elections.
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: French PM Francois Bayrou survives a no-confidence vote, securing temporary relief but continues to face challenges after just two months in office.

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou on Wednesday (Feb 5) survived a no-confidence vote in parliament, winning some breathing space after less than two months in office but still facing an uncertain future. Bayrou, a veteran centrist named by President Emmanuel Macron in December to end months of political crisis, on Monday, used a controversial constitutional article to ram his cost-cutting budget through parliament without a vote. "This budget is an urgent step," Bayrou told the National Assembly. But the use of this mechanism, article 49.3 of the constitution, allows opposition parties to put forward a no-confidence motion, and the bid to topple the government was duly proposed by the hard-left France Unbowed party (LFI), backed by the Communists and the Greens. Also read | Federal judge temporarily halts Trump’s birthright citizenship order But while Bayrou is nowhere near having a majority in the National Assembly, the Socialists and far-right National Rally (RN) both said they would not back two no-confidence motions put forward by the hard left. In the end, the motion concerning the budget gathered 128 votes, well short of the 289 votes needed to topple the government, which still needs approval from the upper-house Senate for the draft to become law. A second no-confidence motion, targeted at the government's social security financing plan, was also on Wednesday's agenda and also expected to fail. But observers said that Wednesday's vote, while a victory, secured little more than a reprieve for the embattled premier. "Passive support from both the Socialists and Marine Le Pen's far-right for Bayrou will end once a 2025 budget is fully enacted in the next few days," risk analysis firm Eurasia Group said, giving a 70 per cent chance that the government would "fall in the next few months". Also read | Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports 'Trigger fresh elections' Jordan Bardella, head of the far-right RN said ahead of the vote that "we need to avoid uncertainty because many of our fellow citizens... are extremely worried about possible long-term instability". The party's vice-president, Sebastien Chenu, said Wednesday that the RN wanted stability "until it is possible to trigger fresh elections", which could be in June, one year after the last legislative polls. "As soon as we can go before the voters again, we must do so," he said. Socialist leader Olivier Faure said his party decided against voting to topple the government over the budget, as it would have resulted only in France having "a prime minister further to the right". The Socialists' stance is a major boost for Bayrou that could mark the end of a broad left-wing alliance including the Socialists and LFI party that had endured since the election campaign. But in a symbolic move, the party leadership decided Monday to propose a separate no-confidence motion after Bayrou referred to migrants "flooding" France, using terminology previously used by the far right. Also read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting However, this has little chance of passing as it is expected to be rejected by right-wing parties. Bayrou's predecessor Michel Barnier was toppled in a no-confidence vote late last year, leaving France in uncharted political waters. The survival of Bayrou's government will be a relief for Macron, who has faced calls to resign since dissolving parliament last year, but who has insisted he will stay on until the end of his term in 2027. Many analysts and even allies are still baffled by the president's decision to call snap parliamentary elections last summer, which gave the far right its biggest-ever foothold in a divided parliament. The cost-cutting and tax-hiking budget has proved controversial in some quarters, with France's richest man, the luxury goods mogul Bernard Arnault, denouncing a planned special corporate tax. Budget Minister Amelie de Montchalin said the government, now in possession of a budget, would do what it takes "to meet our 5.4 per cent target" for the 2025 deficit as a percentage of GDP, after an estimated six per cent last year. Turbulent months remain ahead in French politics. A verdict is due in far-right leader Marine Le Pen's trial over allegations of fake EU parliament jobs -- charges she denies -- on March 31, and if convicted she could be disqualified from the 2027 elections. 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.

French PM Bayrou survives no-confidence vote over budget rift

The US Treasury said Tuesday that Elon Musk's government reform team can read data from its highly sensitive payment system but not alter it, after Democratic lawmakers raised the alarm over the move and called for an investigation.
Musk, the world's richest person, is leading President Donald Trump's federal cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
As part of that drive, he reportedly pushed for a team led by IT executive Tom Krause to be given access to the Treasury Department's closely guarded payment system, which handles trillions of dollars of transactions, from Social Security and Medicare payouts to federal salaries.
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>
In response, Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden sent a letter Tuesday to the congressional watchdog agency demanding it probe reports that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had personally granted Musk and his aides that permission.
The Treasury, in a letter sent to Congress and shared with AFP, confirmed Krause's team has access to the system, but said it is "read-only access... in order to continue this operational efficiency assessment."
They said the permission was "similar to the kind of access that Treasury provides to individuals reviewing Treasury systems, such as auditors."
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Musk's efficiency drive has run into strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who have raised a wide range of legal and ethical concerns about his moves to slash federal spending.
In a separate letter sent to Republican President Donald Trump on Tuesday, other Democratic policymakers expressed concern over DOGE's work involving government data and facilities.
Labour unions and a grassroots advocacy group have also objected to the moves, filing a lawsuit calling on a federal judge to declare it illegal for Musk or others from DOGE to get personal information on taxpayers and to block the Treasury Department from letting that happen.
In a post on X, the social media platform that he owns, Musk said Monday that the "only way to stop fraud and waste of taxpayer money is to follow the payment flows and pause suspicious transactions for review."
Musk's access to the payments system was approved by Bessent and made possible when a career official was put on administrative leave after refusing to allow entry, according to the lawsuit. The official later retired.
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: Musk, the world's richest person, is leading President Donald Trump's federal cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The US Treasury said Tuesday that Elon Musk's government reform team can read data from its highly sensitive payment system but not alter it, after Democratic lawmakers raised the alarm over the move and called for an investigation. Musk, the world's richest person, is leading President Donald Trump's federal cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). As part of that drive, he reportedly pushed for a team led by IT executive Tom Krause to be given access to the Treasury Department's closely guarded payment system, which handles trillions of dollars of transactions, from Social Security and Medicare payouts to federal salaries. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge In response, Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden sent a letter Tuesday to the congressional watchdog agency demanding it probe reports that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had personally granted Musk and his aides that permission. The Treasury, in a letter sent to Congress and shared with AFP, confirmed Krause's team has access to the system, but said it is "read-only access... in order to continue this operational efficiency assessment." They said the permission was "similar to the kind of access that Treasury provides to individuals reviewing Treasury systems, such as auditors." Also read: Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE? Musk's efficiency drive has run into strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who have raised a wide range of legal and ethical concerns about his moves to slash federal spending. In a separate letter sent to Republican President Donald Trump on Tuesday, other Democratic policymakers expressed concern over DOGE's work involving government data and facilities. Labour unions and a grassroots advocacy group have also objected to the moves, filing a lawsuit calling on a federal judge to declare it illegal for Musk or others from DOGE to get personal information on taxpayers and to block the Treasury Department from letting that happen. In a post on X, the social media platform that he owns, Musk said Monday that the "only way to stop fraud and waste of taxpayer money is to follow the payment flows and pause suspicious transactions for review." Musk's access to the payments system was approved by Bessent and made possible when a career official was put on administrative leave after refusing to allow entry, according to the lawsuit. The official later retired. 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.

Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department

The US government's giant humanitarian agency USAID on Tuesday announced it was placing its staff in the United States and around the world on administrative leave as it moved to recall employees from overseas postings.
The agency said in a statement on its website&mdash;which reappeared Tuesday after going dark over the weekend&mdash;that the staff leave will begin shortly before midnight on February 7.&nbsp;
The administrative leave will hit "all USAID direct hire personnel... with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs."
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"Thank you for your service," the statement read.
The move is part of Trump's&mdash;and his billionaire ally Elon Musk's&mdash;radical drive to shrink the US government, which has shocked Washington and caused angry protests from Democrats and the human rights community.&nbsp;
The aid arm of US foreign policy, USAID, funds health and emergency programmes in around 120 countries, including the world's poorest regions.
It is seen as a vital source of soft power for the United States in its struggle for influence with rivals, including China, where Musk has extensive business interests.
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Musk has called USAID "a viper's nest of radical-left Marxists who hate America" and has vowed to shut it down.
Among other criticisms, which Musk has not substantiated, he claims USAID does "rogue CIA work" and even "funded bioweapon research, including Covid-19, that killed millions of people."
The SpaceX and Tesla CEO, who has massive contracts with the US government and was the biggest financial backer of Trump's campaign, said he had personally cleared the unprecedented move with the president.
The assault on USAID comes in the context of long-running narratives on the hard-line conservative and libertarian wings of the Republican Party that the United States wastes money on foreigners while ignoring Americans.
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The agency describes itself as working "to end extreme poverty and promote resilient, democratic societies while advancing our security and prosperity."
As of 2023, the most recent year for which full data was available, the top three recipients of aid from USAID were Ukraine, Ethiopia, and Jordan, according to the Congressional Research Service.&nbsp;
Other top recipients of aid included the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Syria.&nbsp;
The scale of USAID's funding for Ukraine is significant, with the war-torn European country receiving more than $16 billion in macroeconomic support, according to US government data.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-near-for-american-aid-agencies-as-usaid-website-goes-offline-amid-trumps-freeze-on-foreign-aid-8684258">End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid</a>
Founded in 1961, the agency's budget of more than $40 billion is a small drop in the US government's overall annual spending of nearly $7 trillion.
The United States is the world's largest provider of official development assistance, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
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 agency said on its website, which reappeared Tuesday after going dark over the weekend, that the staff leave will begin shortly before midnight on February 7. 

The US government's giant humanitarian agency USAID on Tuesday announced it was placing its staff in the United States and around the world on administrative leave as it moved to recall employees from overseas postings. The agency said in a statement on its website—which reappeared Tuesday after going dark over the weekend—that the staff leave will begin shortly before midnight on February 7. The administrative leave will hit "all USAID direct hire personnel... with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs." Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director "Thank you for your service," the statement read. The move is part of Trump's—and his billionaire ally Elon Musk's—radical drive to shrink the US government, which has shocked Washington and caused angry protests from Democrats and the human rights community. The aid arm of US foreign policy, USAID, funds health and emergency programmes in around 120 countries, including the world's poorest regions. It is seen as a vital source of soft power for the United States in its struggle for influence with rivals, including China, where Musk has extensive business interests. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk Musk has called USAID "a viper's nest of radical-left Marxists who hate America" and has vowed to shut it down. Among other criticisms, which Musk has not substantiated, he claims USAID does "rogue CIA work" and even "funded bioweapon research, including Covid-19, that killed millions of people." The SpaceX and Tesla CEO, who has massive contracts with the US government and was the biggest financial backer of Trump's campaign, said he had personally cleared the unprecedented move with the president. The assault on USAID comes in the context of long-running narratives on the hard-line conservative and libertarian wings of the Republican Party that the United States wastes money on foreigners while ignoring Americans. Also read: US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid The agency describes itself as working "to end extreme poverty and promote resilient, democratic societies while advancing our security and prosperity." As of 2023, the most recent year for which full data was available, the top three recipients of aid from USAID were Ukraine, Ethiopia, and Jordan, according to the Congressional Research Service. Other top recipients of aid included the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Syria. The scale of USAID's funding for Ukraine is significant, with the war-torn European country receiving more than $16 billion in macroeconomic support, according to US government data. Also read: End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid Founded in 1961, the agency's budget of more than $40 billion is a small drop in the US government's overall annual spending of nearly $7 trillion. The United States is the world's largest provider of official development assistance, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). 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 admin places USAID global staff on leave, orders them to return home

Hamas' secret documents have been recovered by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), making shocking allegations against the Palestinian militant group as it revealed that the group tortured and executed their own "terrorists" who allegedly had same-sex relations, the New York Post reported.&nbsp;
According to the report, the Hamas militants have also had same-sex relations with male Israeli victims of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-war" rel="dofollow"> October 7 attack</a>, raping them while holding them hostages.&nbsp;
The documents showed 94 Hamas recruits, charged with homosexual conversations, flirting with girls without a legal relationship and sodomy."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-hamas-releases-three-israeli-hostages-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-handed-over-soon-8681144" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners</a>
Hamas reportedly had a list of recruits who failed to comply with its "morality checks" by engaging in homosexuality for which, they had to pay a heavy price.&nbsp;
Moreover, some of the charges also included child rape and torture.&nbsp;
The allegations further involved recruits to Hamas' intelligence, army, and the outfit's interior ministry.&nbsp;
They said that the new members were eventually dismissed as "unacceptable" by the group due to their actions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-death-of-military-leader-mohammed-deif-six-months-after-israel-announced-it-8676258" rel="dofollow">Hamas confirms death of military leader Mohammed Deif, six months after Israel targeted him</a>
One of the allegations said, "He (one of the accused Hamas fighters) constantly curses God. Information was received that he sexually harassed a young child," the New York Post reported.&nbsp;
According to the report, another alleged, "He has romantic relationships on Facebook. He never prays. He is behaviourally and morally deviant," it said, using Hamas' word for gay.
However, it is unclear what happened to these "unacceptable" Hamas recruits, but is known that homosexuality is illegal in Gaza and can put you in prison for years, or even death.&nbsp;
In 2016, former Hamas commander Mahmoud Ishtiwi was executed after he was accused of engaging in homosexuality.&nbsp;
His confession and testimony of the brutality that he faced were also mentioned in the secret documents.
Hamas executed Ishtiwi by shooting three bullets in his chest after keeping him in prison and torturing him for around a year.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-sign-executive-order-cancelling-student-visas-of-hamas-sympathisers-8669336" rel="dofollow"> 'Will find and deport you': Trump to sign order cancelling student visas of 'Hamas sympathisers'</a>
The New York Post reported that he was also hung by his hands and legs for hours during his time in prison.&nbsp;
In the documents, religious leaders said, "Committing the crime of sodomy in a hideous manner while he is married to two women. This is more heinous than adultery and it has been described as obscenity in the Quran more than once. Sodomy receives its punishment at the very least, which is stoning to death."
The NY Post cited a source saying that homosexuality is "deeply against" Hamas' religion, saying that it would bring them "much shame".
(With inputs from agencies)

World: According to the report, the Hamas militants have also had same-sex relations with male Israeli victims of the October 7 attack, raping them while holding them hostages. 

Hamas' secret documents have been recovered by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), making shocking allegations against the Palestinian militant group as it revealed that the group tortured and executed their own "terrorists" who allegedly had same-sex relations, the New York Post reported. According to the report, the Hamas militants have also had same-sex relations with male Israeli victims of the October 7 attack, raping them while holding them hostages. The documents showed 94 Hamas recruits, charged with homosexual conversations, flirting with girls without a legal relationship and sodomy." Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners Hamas reportedly had a list of recruits who failed to comply with its "morality checks" by engaging in homosexuality for which, they had to pay a heavy price. Moreover, some of the charges also included child rape and torture. The allegations further involved recruits to Hamas' intelligence, army, and the outfit's interior ministry. They said that the new members were eventually dismissed as "unacceptable" by the group due to their actions. Also read: Hamas confirms death of military leader Mohammed Deif, six months after Israel targeted him One of the allegations said, "He (one of the accused Hamas fighters) constantly curses God. Information was received that he sexually harassed a young child," the New York Post reported. According to the report, another alleged, "He has romantic relationships on Facebook. He never prays. He is behaviourally and morally deviant," it said, using Hamas' word for gay. However, it is unclear what happened to these "unacceptable" Hamas recruits, but is known that homosexuality is illegal in Gaza and can put you in prison for years, or even death. In 2016, former Hamas commander Mahmoud Ishtiwi was executed after he was accused of engaging in homosexuality. His confession and testimony of the brutality that he faced were also mentioned in the secret documents. Hamas executed Ishtiwi by shooting three bullets in his chest after keeping him in prison and torturing him for around a year. Also read: 'Will find and deport you': Trump to sign order cancelling student visas of 'Hamas sympathisers' The New York Post reported that he was also hung by his hands and legs for hours during his time in prison. In the documents, religious leaders said, "Committing the crime of sodomy in a hideous manner while he is married to two women. This is more heinous than adultery and it has been described as obscenity in the Quran more than once. Sodomy receives its punishment at the very least, which is stoning to death." The NY Post cited a source saying that homosexuality is "deeply against" Hamas' religion, saying that it would bring them "much shame". (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas 'tortured, executed' own fighters over same-sex relations, secret documents reveal: Report

A federal judge on Wednesday (Feb 5) ordered a second temporary pause on Donald Trump&rsquo;s executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented and temporary immigrants born in the US.
US district judge Deborah Boardman said no court in the country had endorsed the Trump administration&rsquo;s interpretation of the 14th Amendment. &ldquo;This court will not be the first,&rdquo; she said.
Donald Trump's executive order, issued during his inauguration week, was put on hold nationwide due to a lawsuit filed by four states in Washington.&nbsp;
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<h2 dir="ltr">&ldquo;Blatantly unconstitutional&rdquo;</h2>
A judge deemed the order "blatantly unconstitutional." This legal challenge is just one of many, as a total of 22 states and various organisations have taken legal action to block the executive order.
Boardman, nominated by former president Joe Biden, agreed to the preliminary injunction after a hearing in federal court in Greenbelt, Maryland. This decision comes after a lawsuit was filed by immigrant-rights advocacy groups Casa and the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project, along with several expectant mothers.
Birthright citizenship is protected by Supreme Court precedent, Boardman said in her judgment, and she found it &ldquo;very likely&rdquo; the plaintiffs would succeed in their case as Trump&rsquo;s order &ldquo;conflicts with the plain language of the 14th Amendment.&rdquo;
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The Trump administration asserts that children of noncitizens are not &ldquo;subject to the jurisdiction&rdquo; of the United States and therefore not entitled to citizenship.
&ldquo;The Constitution does not harbour a windfall clause granting American citizenship to, inter alia: the children of those who have circumvented (or outright defied) federal immigration laws,&rdquo; the government argued in reply to the Maryland plaintiffs&rsquo; suit.
<h2 dir="ltr">The 14th Amendment</h2>
The 14th Amendment was added in the aftermath of the US Civil War to ensure citizenship for formerly enslaved people and free African Americans. It states: &ldquo;All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.&rdquo;
In a significant development, 18 Republican attorneys general have announced their intention to defend President Trump's order by joining a federal lawsuit in New Hampshire. This move comes as 22 states with Democratic attorneys general are actively seeking to block the order.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: A federal judge has issued a second temporary block on Trump's executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants in the US.

A federal judge on Wednesday (Feb 5) ordered a second temporary pause on Donald Trump’s executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented and temporary immigrants born in the US. US district judge Deborah Boardman said no court in the country had endorsed the Trump administration’s interpretation of the 14th Amendment. “This court will not be the first,” she said. Donald Trump's executive order, issued during his inauguration week, was put on hold nationwide due to a lawsuit filed by four states in Washington. Also read | Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports “Blatantly unconstitutional” A judge deemed the order "blatantly unconstitutional." This legal challenge is just one of many, as a total of 22 states and various organisations have taken legal action to block the executive order. Boardman, nominated by former president Joe Biden, agreed to the preliminary injunction after a hearing in federal court in Greenbelt, Maryland. This decision comes after a lawsuit was filed by immigrant-rights advocacy groups Casa and the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project, along with several expectant mothers. Birthright citizenship is protected by Supreme Court precedent, Boardman said in her judgment, and she found it “very likely” the plaintiffs would succeed in their case as Trump’s order “conflicts with the plain language of the 14th Amendment.” Also read | Cocaine ‘not worse than whisky’: Colombian president challenges US ties The Trump administration asserts that children of noncitizens are not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States and therefore not entitled to citizenship. “The Constitution does not harbour a windfall clause granting American citizenship to, inter alia: the children of those who have circumvented (or outright defied) federal immigration laws,” the government argued in reply to the Maryland plaintiffs’ suit. The 14th Amendment The 14th Amendment was added in the aftermath of the US Civil War to ensure citizenship for formerly enslaved people and free African Americans. It states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” In a significant development, 18 Republican attorneys general have announced their intention to defend President Trump's order by joining a federal lawsuit in New Hampshire. This move comes as 22 states with Democratic attorneys general are actively seeking to block the order. (With inputs from agencies)

Federal judge temporarily halts Trump’s birthright citizenship order

US President Donald Trump's proposal of taking over the Gaza Strip sparked worldwide criticism, with countries slamming the move and calling it a "forced transfer" or "unacceptable".
Meanwhile, polling concluded for the Delhi Assembly election, with the counting of votes scheduled for Saturday amid a triangular contest between the ruling AAP, BJP and Congress.
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US President Donald Trump's proposal of taking over and owning the Gaza Strip sparked worldwide criticism, with countries slamming Trump's move and calling it a "forced transfer" or "unacceptable issue".
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US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order today banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a promise that was at the centre of his election campaign 2024.
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&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 news from across the world


US President Donald Trump's proposal of taking over the Gaza Strip sparked worldwide criticism, with countries slamming the move and calling it a "forced transfer" or "unacceptable". Meanwhile, polling concluded for the Delhi Assembly election, with the counting of votes scheduled for Saturday amid a triangular contest between the ruling AAP, BJP and Congress. Click on the headlines to read more 'Will only put oil on the fire': Trump's proposal for Gaza take over faces international backlash US President Donald Trump's proposal of taking over and owning the Gaza Strip sparked worldwide criticism, with countries slamming Trump's move and calling it a "forced transfer" or "unacceptable issue". Delhi Assembly Election: Voting concludes in India's capital with 57.89 pc voter turnout The polling has concluded for the Delhi Assembly election, with the counting of votes scheduled for Saturday (Feb 8) as the capital witnesses a triangular contest between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress. Trump to sign executive order banning transgender from female sports US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order today banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a promise that was at the centre of his election campaign 2024. Washington DC plane crash: All 67 bodies recovered from deadly collision Salvage crews have recovered the bodies of all 67 people killed when a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided near Washington and plunged into the Potomac River, officials said Tuesday. Indian Finance Ministry bans employees from using ChatGPT, DeepSeek: Report Indian Finance Ministry asked employees to stop the use of Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official purposes citing sensitive government data, Reuters reported. The ministry repeatedly said the use of such platforms breaches the confidentiality of government documents and data. Kushner played key role in Trump’s Gaza strategy: Report Jared Kushner, former White House senior adviser and son-in-law of Donald Trump, reportedly played a major role in shaping Trump’s proposal for US control over Gaza. US military aircraft carrying over 100 illegal Indian immigrants lands at Amritsar airport A US military aircraft carrying over 100 illegal Indian immigrants landed at the Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar on Wednesday (Feb 5) at 1.55 pm. World's most expensive cow sold for $4 million: Viatina-19 sets record Viatina-19, a Nelore cow from Brazil, has made history by being sold for a jaw-dropping $4 million, setting a new record as the world's most expensive Nelore cow. IND vs ENG: 'Will see what happens...,' India skipper Rohit Sharma speaks on his future India skipper Rohit Sharma snapped at a reporter during the pre-match press conference on the eve of India vs England 1st ODI which is scheduled for Thursday (Feb 6) in Nagpur. Rohit lost his cool when asked about his future plans. Sean Diddy Combs sued by two women, alleging he assaulted them at Trump Hotel A new sexual assault case has knocked on Sean Diddy Combs's doors. The controversial rapper, who is currently behind bars, has been hit with a new sexual assault lawsuit by two women.

Top 10 world news: Trump's Gaza takeover proposal faces global backlash; Voting concludes for Delhi Assembly election , and more

US President Donald Trump's proposal of taking over and owning the Gaza Strip sparked worldwide criticism, with countries slamming Trump's move and calling it a "forced transfer" or "unacceptable issue".
Trump while holding a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that the US would take over and own the Gaza Strip, and deploy American troops in the region if necessary.
His announcement followed a permanent resettlement plan for two million Palestinians living in Gaza to neighbouring countries.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vows-to-take-over-gaza-says-palestinians-can-live-in-harmony-elsewhere-8691504" rel="dofollow"> 'We will own it': Donald Trump vows to 'take over' Gaza in press conference with Netanyahu</a>
<h2>Hamas says 'will only put oil in fire'</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a> said that the US President's proposal "will only put oil in the fire".
The Palestinian militant group added, "Our Palestinian people ... will not allow any state in the world to occupy our land or impose guardianship on our great Palestinian people who have offered rivers of blood to liberate our land from occupation and to establish our state with Jerusalem as its capital."
<h2>Palestinian Authority rejects Trump's plan</h2>
Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas slammed Trump's proposal, expressing strong rejection of calls to seize the Gaza Strip and displace Palestinians outside their homeland.&nbsp;
Abbas's office said in a statement, adding that "legitimate Palestinian rights are not negotiable".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-trump-netanyahu-meet-white-house-official-calls-gaza-a-demolition-site-8691243" rel="dofollow">Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu meet, White House official calls Gaza a &lsquo;demolition site&rsquo;</a>
<h2>United Nations says 'very surprising'</h2>
The head of the United Nations refugee agency called Trump's statement "very surprising".&nbsp;
Filippo Grandi, the United Nations high commissioner for refugees, told AFP that it was not "clear" what Trump's idea entailed, which made it difficult to comment on such a "sensitive issue".&nbsp;
<h2>Israel says plan 'could change history'</h2>
Israeli PM Netanyahu said that it was worth paying attention to this idea and that US control of the Gaza Strip "could change history".&nbsp;
Further, Israel's far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich vowed to "definitively bury...the dangerous idea of a Palestinian state".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-on-historic-us-visit-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-with-trump-hamas-signals-readiness-for-next-phase-8687643" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during &lsquo;historic&rsquo; US visit</a>
<h2>Saudi Arabia says it won't establish ties with Israel without...'</h2>
Saudi Arabian foreign ministry, in a statement, rejected any attempts to displace the Palestinians from their land. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has affirmed the kingdom&rsquo;s position in a "clear and explicit manner" that does not allow for any interpretation under any circumstances.&rdquo;
"His Royal Highness emphasised that Saudi Arabia will continue its relentless efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel without that," the ministry added.&nbsp;
<h2>United Kingdom says 'Palestinians must be allowed home'</h2>
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the Palestinians must be allowed home, adding that "they must be allowed to rebuild, and we should be with them in that rebuild on the way to a two-state solution.&rdquo;
<h2>France says Gaza not be controlled by 'third party'</h2>
The French Foreign Ministry said that Gaza should not be controlled by a "third party".&nbsp;
"France will continue to campaign for the implementation of the two-state solution, the only one that can guarantee long-term peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike," the ministry said.
<h2>China opposes 'forced transfer'</h2>
China's foreign ministry spokesman said that it opposed the "forced transfer" of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
"China has always maintained that Palestinian rule over Palestinians is the basic principle of the post-war governance of Gaza," Lin Jian said.&nbsp;
<h2>Turkey calls it 'unacceptable issue'</h2>
Turkey slammed Trump's proposal and called it an "unacceptable issue".&nbsp;
Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told the official news agency Anadolu that relocating Palestinians from Gaza was something "neither we nor the region can accept". He added it was "wrong to even bring it up for discussion".
<h2>Egypt reaffirms support to PA</h2>
Egypt reaffirmed support to Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas, and called for the authority to govern the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for the swift reconstruction of Gaza, without the displacement of Palestinians.
<h2>Brazil calls it 'almost incomprehensible'</h2>
Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called Trump's idea "something almost incomprehensible".&nbsp;
He further said that "what happened in Gaza was a genocide, and honestly, I don't know if the United States, which is involved in all this (in terms of support for Israel) would be the best placed to take care of Gaza."
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Trump while holding a meeting with Netanyahu vowed that the US would take over and own the Gaza Strip, and deploy American troops in the region if necessary.

US President Donald Trump's proposal of taking over and owning the Gaza Strip sparked worldwide criticism, with countries slamming Trump's move and calling it a "forced transfer" or "unacceptable issue". Trump while holding a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that the US would take over and own the Gaza Strip, and deploy American troops in the region if necessary. His announcement followed a permanent resettlement plan for two million Palestinians living in Gaza to neighbouring countries. Also read: 'We will own it': Donald Trump vows to 'take over' Gaza in press conference with Netanyahu Hamas says 'will only put oil in fire' Hamas said that the US President's proposal "will only put oil in the fire". The Palestinian militant group added, "Our Palestinian people ... will not allow any state in the world to occupy our land or impose guardianship on our great Palestinian people who have offered rivers of blood to liberate our land from occupation and to establish our state with Jerusalem as its capital." Palestinian Authority rejects Trump's plan Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas slammed Trump's proposal, expressing strong rejection of calls to seize the Gaza Strip and displace Palestinians outside their homeland. Abbas's office said in a statement, adding that "legitimate Palestinian rights are not negotiable". Also read: Ahead of Trump-Netanyahu meet, White House official calls Gaza a ‘demolition site’ United Nations says 'very surprising' The head of the United Nations refugee agency called Trump's statement "very surprising". Filippo Grandi, the United Nations high commissioner for refugees, told AFP that it was not "clear" what Trump's idea entailed, which made it difficult to comment on such a "sensitive issue". Israel says plan 'could change history' Israeli PM Netanyahu said that it was worth paying attention to this idea and that US control of the Gaza Strip "could change history". Further, Israel's far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich vowed to "definitively bury...the dangerous idea of a Palestinian state". Also read: Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire with President Trump during ‘historic’ US visit Saudi Arabia says it won't establish ties with Israel without...' Saudi Arabian foreign ministry, in a statement, rejected any attempts to displace the Palestinians from their land. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has affirmed the kingdom’s position in a "clear and explicit manner" that does not allow for any interpretation under any circumstances.” "His Royal Highness emphasised that Saudi Arabia will continue its relentless efforts to establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel without that," the ministry added. United Kingdom says 'Palestinians must be allowed home' UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the Palestinians must be allowed home, adding that "they must be allowed to rebuild, and we should be with them in that rebuild on the way to a two-state solution.” France says Gaza not be controlled by 'third party' The French Foreign Ministry said that Gaza should not be controlled by a "third party". "France will continue to campaign for the implementation of the two-state solution, the only one that can guarantee long-term peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike," the ministry said. China opposes 'forced transfer' China's foreign ministry spokesman said that it opposed the "forced transfer" of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. "China has always maintained that Palestinian rule over Palestinians is the basic principle of the post-war governance of Gaza," Lin Jian said. Turkey calls it 'unacceptable issue' Turkey slammed Trump's proposal and called it an "unacceptable issue". Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told the official news agency Anadolu that relocating Palestinians from Gaza was something "neither we nor the region can accept". He added it was "wrong to even bring it up for discussion". Egypt reaffirms support to PA Egypt reaffirmed support to Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas, and called for the authority to govern the Gaza Strip. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for the swift reconstruction of Gaza, without the displacement of Palestinians. Brazil calls it 'almost incomprehensible' Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called Trump's idea "something almost incomprehensible". He further said that "what happened in Gaza was a genocide, and honestly, I don't know if the United States, which is involved in all this (in terms of support for Israel) would be the best placed to take care of Gaza." (With inputs from agencies)

‘Will only put oil on fire’: Trump’s proposal for Gaza takeover faces international backlash

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order today banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a promise that was at the centre of his election campaign 2024.
According to a White House document on the upcoming executive order obtained by ABC News, dubbed &ldquo;No Men in Women&rsquo;s Sports&rdquo;, the order will change how the administration interprets Title IX, a civil rights law that addresses sex discrimination at schools that receive federal funding, including in athletics.
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<h2 dir="ltr">What have people to say?</h2>
Deputy assistant to the president and senior policy strategist May Mailman told ABC News, "We want to take actions to affirmatively protect women's sports." She said that the executive order is designed to further overturn Biden-era policies that required schools and athletic organisations to treat gender identity and sex as equivalent.
She noted that a court ruling determined such requirements were not necessary and that the president's executive order would explicitly ban them.
Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson said in a statement on Tuesday that Trump's executive order will lead to increased discrimination and harassment.
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"This order could expose young people to harassment and discrimination, emboldening people to question the gender of kids who don't fit a narrow view of how they're supposed to dress or look," Robinson said. "Participating in sports is about learning the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. And for so many students, sports are about finding somewhere to belong. We should want that for all kids&mdash;not partisan policies that make life harder for them."
<h2 dir="ltr">What else changes will the order make?</h2>
The executive order is set to make significant changes to various policies. The Secretary of State will be pushing for changes within the International Olympic Committee to maintain single-sex competitions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-patronising-reply-to-afghan-reporters-accent-netizens-raise-eyebrows-8693167">Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;patronising&rsquo; reply to Afghan reporter&rsquo;s accent raises netizens&rsquo; eyebrows</a>
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security will review visa policies to prevent transgender women from identifying as female, which would allow them to compete in women's sports.&nbsp;
Private sporting bodies will also be required to attend an in-person White House meeting, where they will hear accounts from female athletes firsthand.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: President Trump is set to sign an executive order today, enforcing a ban on transgender athletes in women's sports, a key promise from his campaign agenda.

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order today banning transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, fulfilling a promise that was at the centre of his election campaign 2024. According to a White House document on the upcoming executive order obtained by ABC News, dubbed “No Men in Women’s Sports”, the order will change how the administration interprets Title IX, a civil rights law that addresses sex discrimination at schools that receive federal funding, including in athletics. Also read | Cocaine ‘not worse than whisky’: Colombian president challenges US ties What have people to say? Deputy assistant to the president and senior policy strategist May Mailman told ABC News, "We want to take actions to affirmatively protect women's sports." She said that the executive order is designed to further overturn Biden-era policies that required schools and athletic organisations to treat gender identity and sex as equivalent. She noted that a court ruling determined such requirements were not necessary and that the president's executive order would explicitly ban them. Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson said in a statement on Tuesday that Trump's executive order will lead to increased discrimination and harassment. Also read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting "This order could expose young people to harassment and discrimination, emboldening people to question the gender of kids who don't fit a narrow view of how they're supposed to dress or look," Robinson said. "Participating in sports is about learning the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. And for so many students, sports are about finding somewhere to belong. We should want that for all kids—not partisan policies that make life harder for them." What else changes will the order make? The executive order is set to make significant changes to various policies. The Secretary of State will be pushing for changes within the International Olympic Committee to maintain single-sex competitions. Also read | Trump’s ‘patronising’ reply to Afghan reporter’s accent raises netizens’ eyebrows Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security will review visa policies to prevent transgender women from identifying as female, which would allow them to compete in women's sports. Private sporting bodies will also be required to attend an in-person White House meeting, where they will hear accounts from female athletes firsthand. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to sign executive order banning transgender athletes from female sports

Jared Kushner, former White House senior adviser and son-in-law of President Donald Trump, reportedly played a major role in shaping Trump&rsquo;s proposal for US control over Gaza.&nbsp;
According to Puck News, Kushner was involved in drafting the statement Trump made during a White House briefing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan suggests clearing Palestinians from Gaza for redevelopment.
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<h2>Netanyahu&rsquo;s position on the plan</h2>
Sources cited by Puck News claim that Netanyahu had not requested Trump to pursue such a strategy in advance. The report suggests that the idea may have originated from Kushner, who has previously advocated for reshaping Gaza&rsquo;s future.
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<h2>Kushner&rsquo;s past remarks on Gaza</h2>
During a Harvard event last year, Kushner described Gaza&rsquo;s coastal land as &ldquo;valuable waterfront property&rdquo; and suggested moving out its residents to allow for redevelopment.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a little bit of an unfortunate situation there, but I think from Israel&rsquo;s perspective, I would do my best to move the people out and then clean it up,&rdquo; he further added. &ldquo;But I don&rsquo;t think that Israel has stated that they don&rsquo;t want the people to move back there afterward.&rdquo;
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<h2>Netanyahu&rsquo;s meetings with US officials</h2>
Netanyahu is set to meet US Vice President JD Vance today, as reported by The Times of Israel. He is also scheduled to hold discussions with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on key regional issues.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kushner was involved in drafting the statement Trump made during a White House briefing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan suggests clearing Palestinians from Gaza for its redevelopment.

Jared Kushner, former White House senior adviser and son-in-law of President Donald Trump, reportedly played a major role in shaping Trump’s proposal for US control over Gaza. According to Puck News, Kushner was involved in drafting the statement Trump made during a White House briefing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan suggests clearing Palestinians from Gaza for redevelopment. Also Read | 'Exaggerated': Trump on reports of US blowing Iran into smithereens, calls for 'nuclear peace agreement' Netanyahu’s position on the plan Sources cited by Puck News claim that Netanyahu had not requested Trump to pursue such a strategy in advance. The report suggests that the idea may have originated from Kushner, who has previously advocated for reshaping Gaza’s future. Also Read | Who are the deported migrants? US military plane brings back 104 Indian nationals Kushner’s past remarks on Gaza During a Harvard event last year, Kushner described Gaza’s coastal land as “valuable waterfront property” and suggested moving out its residents to allow for redevelopment. Also Read | Cocaine ‘not worse than whisky’: Colombian president challenges US ties “It’s a little bit of an unfortunate situation there, but I think from Israel’s perspective, I would do my best to move the people out and then clean it up,” he further added. “But I don’t think that Israel has stated that they don’t want the people to move back there afterward.” Also Read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting Netanyahu’s meetings with US officials Netanyahu is set to meet US Vice President JD Vance today, as reported by The Times of Israel. He is also scheduled to hold discussions with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on key regional issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Kushner played key role in Trump’s Gaza strategy: Report

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 5) said that he would not like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/iran-nuclear-weapon" rel="dofollow">Iran</a> to have nuclear weapons, but would prefer a "Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement" on which the US should begin working on it "immediately".&nbsp;
Trump shared a post on Truth Social, saying that he wants Iran to be a "great and successful country".&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113950996936674770/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

He further rejected the reports saying the US, working in conjunction with Israel, is going to blow Iran into smithereens, and called it "greatly exaggerated".&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-looking-for-quick-ways-to-build-nuclear-weapon-says-us-report-8688177" rel="dofollow"> Iran looking for quick ways to build nuclear weapon, says US: Report</a>
"Reports that the United States, working in conjunction with Israel, is going to blow Iran into smithereens, ARE GREATLY EXAGGERATED. I would much prefer a Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement, which will let Iran peacefully grow and prosper," Trump posted on Truth Social.&nbsp;
"We should start working on it immediately, and have a big Middle East Celebration when it is signed and completed," he added in the post.&nbsp;
Netanyahu visited the White House on Tuesday to meet US President Donald Trump and hold a meeting with him.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-re-designates-iranian-backed-houthi-rebels-as-foreign-terrorist-organisation-8645631" rel="dofollow">Trump re-designates Iranian-backed Houthi rebels as &lsquo;foreign terrorist organisation&rsquo;</a>
Netanyahu suggested that Trump's "willingness to think outside the box with fresh ideas" will help the Jewish nation achieve its goals of eliminating Hamas amid the ongoing war in Gaza.
<h2>'Iran would be obliterated'</h2>
Trump on Tuesday said that he has given his advisers instructions to obliterate Iran if it assassinates him.&nbsp;
"If they did that, they would be obliterated. I've left instructions. If they do it, they get obliterated, there won&rsquo;t be anything left," he said.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-rebels-call-us-terrorist-organisation-label-bias-for-israel-iran-condemns-move-8648447" rel="dofollow"> Yemen's Houthi rebels call US 'terrorist organisation' label 'bias for Israel', Iran condemns move</a>
The US officials said that a threat from Iran against the US president led to intensified security measures in the days leading up to his July campaign rally in Pennsylvania, when he was shot in the ear.&nbsp;
Moreover, on Tuesday, Trump announced the reinstatement of his administration's "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran, what he called a strategy aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions by targeting its vital oil exports.&nbsp;
This just comes after Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump rejected the reports saying the US, working in conjunction with Israel, is going to blow Iran into smithereens, and called it "greatly exaggerated". 

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Feb 5) said that he would not like Iran to have nuclear weapons, but would prefer a "Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement" on which the US should begin working on it "immediately". Trump shared a post on Truth Social, saying that he wants Iran to be a "great and successful country". He further rejected the reports saying the US, working in conjunction with Israel, is going to blow Iran into smithereens, and called it "greatly exaggerated". Also read: Iran looking for quick ways to build nuclear weapon, says US: Report "Reports that the United States, working in conjunction with Israel, is going to blow Iran into smithereens, ARE GREATLY EXAGGERATED. I would much prefer a Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement, which will let Iran peacefully grow and prosper," Trump posted on Truth Social. "We should start working on it immediately, and have a big Middle East Celebration when it is signed and completed," he added in the post. Netanyahu visited the White House on Tuesday to meet US President Donald Trump and hold a meeting with him. Also read: Trump re-designates Iranian-backed Houthi rebels as ‘foreign terrorist organisation’ Netanyahu suggested that Trump's "willingness to think outside the box with fresh ideas" will help the Jewish nation achieve its goals of eliminating Hamas amid the ongoing war in Gaza. 'Iran would be obliterated' Trump on Tuesday said that he has given his advisers instructions to obliterate Iran if it assassinates him. "If they did that, they would be obliterated. I've left instructions. If they do it, they get obliterated, there won’t be anything left," he said. Also read: Yemen's Houthi rebels call US 'terrorist organisation' label 'bias for Israel', Iran condemns move The US officials said that a threat from Iran against the US president led to intensified security measures in the days leading up to his July campaign rally in Pennsylvania, when he was shot in the ear. Moreover, on Tuesday, Trump announced the reinstatement of his administration's "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran, what he called a strategy aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions by targeting its vital oil exports. This just comes after Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. (With inputs from agencies)

'Exaggerated': Trump on reports of US blowing Iran into smithereens, calls for 'nuclear peace agreement'

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, during a live-streamed cabinet meeting on Tuesday (Feb 4), declared that &ldquo;cocaine is not worse than whisky&rdquo;, sparking concerns over the future of the long-standing U.S.-Colombia anti-drug partnership.
Petro made the claim speaking at a roundtable with his cabinet, saying the drug is "not worse than whisky". "That is what scientists are analyzing. What indeed is affecting the US is fentanyl, which is killing them," the president said.
&ldquo;The business could easily be dismantled if cocaine were legalised worldwide. It would be sold like wine,&rdquo; he added at the Casa de Nari&ntilde;o presidential palace, broadcast live in an unprecedented move.
Also read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish&rsquo;s deadliest mass shooting
The comments come at a pivotal moment in US-Colombia collaboration on drug enforcement, as Colombia has just announced significant breakthroughs in their joint operations, including the recent seizure of 8.2 tonnes of cocaine at the Buenaventura port.
<h2 dir="ltr">Petro takes aim at US on fentanyl crisis</h2>
Challenging the drug policy of the US, Petro criticised its handling of the fentanyl crisis. He said, &ldquo;Fentanyl appeared as a pharmaceutical drug from American multinationals, who started distributing it for profit.&rdquo; &ldquo;Now they blame the Mexicans. Yes, of course. The fault lies in the business within their own borders.&rdquo;
Also read | Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?'
Petro&rsquo;s comment represents a significant departure from his administration&rsquo;s current policy of targeting major drug trafficking operations. This apparent contradiction between his public stance and the government's enforcement actions raises questions about Colombia's dedication to its agreements with other countries, particularly the United States.
<h2 dir="ltr">US-Colombia partnership against drugs at risk</h2>
Colombia has long been a key partner for the US in combating narcotics in South America, with the country receiving billions of dollars in aid since the inception of Plan Colombia in 2000. However, Colombian President Gustavo Petro's recent remarks may potentially alter the dynamics of this crucial partnership, which has been a cornerstone of US foreign policy in the region.&nbsp;
Also read | Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;patronising&rsquo; reply to Afghan reporter&rsquo;s accent raises netizens&rsquo; eyebrows
With Petro's term set to expire in August 2026, the future of US-Colombia cooperation on drug enforcement hangs in the balance.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Colombian President Gustavo Petro compares cocaine to whisky in a cabinet meeting, raising concerns about the future of U.S.-Colombia anti-drug efforts and partnerships.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, during a live-streamed cabinet meeting on Tuesday (Feb 4), declared that “cocaine is not worse than whisky”, sparking concerns over the future of the long-standing U.S.-Colombia anti-drug partnership. Petro made the claim speaking at a roundtable with his cabinet, saying the drug is "not worse than whisky". "That is what scientists are analyzing. What indeed is affecting the US is fentanyl, which is killing them," the president said. “The business could easily be dismantled if cocaine were legalised worldwide. It would be sold like wine,” he added at the Casa de Nariño presidential palace, broadcast live in an unprecedented move. Also read | Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting The comments come at a pivotal moment in US-Colombia collaboration on drug enforcement, as Colombia has just announced significant breakthroughs in their joint operations, including the recent seizure of 8.2 tonnes of cocaine at the Buenaventura port. Petro takes aim at US on fentanyl crisis Challenging the drug policy of the US, Petro criticised its handling of the fentanyl crisis. He said, “Fentanyl appeared as a pharmaceutical drug from American multinationals, who started distributing it for profit.” “Now they blame the Mexicans. Yes, of course. The fault lies in the business within their own borders.” Also read | Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?' Petro’s comment represents a significant departure from his administration’s current policy of targeting major drug trafficking operations. This apparent contradiction between his public stance and the government's enforcement actions raises questions about Colombia's dedication to its agreements with other countries, particularly the United States. US-Colombia partnership against drugs at risk Colombia has long been a key partner for the US in combating narcotics in South America, with the country receiving billions of dollars in aid since the inception of Plan Colombia in 2000. However, Colombian President Gustavo Petro's recent remarks may potentially alter the dynamics of this crucial partnership, which has been a cornerstone of US foreign policy in the region. Also read | Trump’s ‘patronising’ reply to Afghan reporter’s accent raises netizens’ eyebrows With Petro's term set to expire in August 2026, the future of US-Colombia cooperation on drug enforcement hangs in the balance. (With inputs from agencies)

Cocaine ‘not worse than whisky’: Colombian president challenges US ties

The gunman behind Swedish's deadliest mass shooting was a 35-year-old unemployed man with a hunting license, who is thought to have acted alone.
At least 11 people were killed on Tuesday (shooting at an adult education centre in Orebro, 200 km (125 miles) west of Stockholm, police said, adding that the gunman was believed to be among those found dead.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trumps-patronising-reply-to-afghan-reporters-accent-netizens-raise-eyebrows-8693167">Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;patronising&rsquo; reply to Afghan reporter&rsquo;s accent raises netizens&rsquo; eyebrows</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">No ideological motive behind the shooting</h2>
According to the police, there was no ideological motive behind the mass shooting. They have not yet named the attacker but said he was not known to them before the event and had never been convicted of any crime. The police also said he had no gang connection.
Daily tabloid Aftonbladet, a local newspaper, reported that the relative of the man believed to be the shooter described him as a recluse who had limited contact with his family for years. They went on to say that the shooter had little contact with his parents, who are 'out travelling a lot', but that he liked to 'take care of their dog'.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cia-halts-hiring-offers-buyouts-to-all-employees-as-trumps-downsizing-efforts-expand-8693215">'To infuse renewed energy': CIA halts hiring, offers buyouts to all employees as Trump&rsquo;s downsizing efforts expand</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Resident of Orebro</h2>
According to Swedish public broadcaster SVT, the gunman held a hunting license, a common possession in Sweden, and used a hunting rifle during the attack. SVT also reported that the attacker was a resident of Orebro.
Also read | <a href="Watch:%20As%20Trump%20pulls%20a%20chair%20for%20Netanyahu,%20netizens%20ask%20'Who's%20president%20of%20United%20States?'">Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?'</a>
The school where the attack was carried out teaches adults who didn't complete their formal education or didn't meet the requirements for higher education. It is located on a campus that also houses schools for children.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Explore the tragic story of Sweden's deadliest mass shooting, orchestrated by a 35-year-old unemployed man with a hunting license, believed to have acted alone.

The gunman behind Swedish's deadliest mass shooting was a 35-year-old unemployed man with a hunting license, who is thought to have acted alone. At least 11 people were killed on Tuesday (shooting at an adult education centre in Orebro, 200 km (125 miles) west of Stockholm, police said, adding that the gunman was believed to be among those found dead. Also read | Trump’s ‘patronising’ reply to Afghan reporter’s accent raises netizens’ eyebrows No ideological motive behind the shooting According to the police, there was no ideological motive behind the mass shooting. They have not yet named the attacker but said he was not known to them before the event and had never been convicted of any crime. The police also said he had no gang connection. Daily tabloid Aftonbladet, a local newspaper, reported that the relative of the man believed to be the shooter described him as a recluse who had limited contact with his family for years. They went on to say that the shooter had little contact with his parents, who are 'out travelling a lot', but that he liked to 'take care of their dog'. Also read | 'To infuse renewed energy': CIA halts hiring, offers buyouts to all employees as Trump’s downsizing efforts expand Resident of Orebro According to Swedish public broadcaster SVT, the gunman held a hunting license, a common possession in Sweden, and used a hunting rifle during the attack. SVT also reported that the attacker was a resident of Orebro. Also read | Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?' The school where the attack was carried out teaches adults who didn't complete their formal education or didn't meet the requirements for higher education. It is located on a campus that also houses schools for children. (With inputs from agencies)

Everything to know about shooter behind Swedish’s deadliest mass shooting

US President Donald Trump has once again become a talk of social media after a video of him was shared. In the video, he is seen pulling a chair for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to the White House on Tuesday.&nbsp;
Netizens reacted to the video, some of them criticising the move, while some called him a "gentleman".
One user posted the video with the caption, "You are president of the US, not Netanyahu's slave." He added, "Netanyahu humiliated Trump and America today."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-was-a-great-operation-trump-says-as-netanyahu-gifts-us-president-a-golden-pager-8693078" rel="dofollow">'That was a great operation': Trump says as Netanyahu gifts US president a golden pager</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🚨🇮🇱🇺🇸 NETANYAHU HUMILIATED TRUMP &amp; AMERICA TODAY! YOU ARE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, NOT NETANYAHU'S SLAVE <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>! <a href="https://t.co/pLd04EMwQi">pic.twitter.com/pLd04EMwQi</a>
&mdash; Jackson Hinkle 🇺🇸 (@jacksonhinklle) <a href="https://twitter.com/jacksonhinklle/status/1887083806017847507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
While another user questioned, "Who's the President of the United States?
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Who's President of the United States?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Netanyahu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Netanyahu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a> <a href="https://t.co/N9BM1JoDYj">pic.twitter.com/N9BM1JoDYj</a>
&mdash; elina e (@elina_e6031) <a href="https://twitter.com/elina_e6031/status/1887062136288899362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
While the users commented on the viral posts, calling Trump a "waiter" at a restaurant serving Netanyahu.&nbsp;
Another post went viral, in which the user captioned, "The real president of US. World is being ruled by some evil billionaires and Jew Bankers who employ people like Netanyahu who then employs people like Trump, Biden, Farage, Bedinoch, and Starmer."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vows-to-take-over-gaza-says-palestinians-can-live-in-harmony-elsewhere-8691504" rel="dofollow">'We will own it': Donald Trump vows to 'take over' Gaza in press conference with Netanyahu</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The real president of US. World is being ruled by some evil billionaires and Jew Bankers who employ people like Netanyahu who then employs people like Trump, Biden, Farage, Bedinoch and Starmer. <a href="https://t.co/IWVy8t85GM">pic.twitter.com/IWVy8t85GM</a>
&mdash; Dr F N. (@boredtweeple) <a href="https://twitter.com/boredtweeple/status/1887067805599621339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
One user posted, "From the President of the United States to a waiter for an Israeli official."&nbsp;
Trump and Netanyahu met in the United States on Tuesday and held a joint press conference, addressing issues including the Gaza ceasefire and Iran.&nbsp;
Both leaders discussed the fate of Gaza, in which Trump vowed that the US would "take over" and "own" the Gaza Strip and deploy American troops in the region if necessary.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-meet-trump-as-israel-hamas-eye-gaza-truce-talks-8690020" rel="dofollow">Netanyahu to meet Trump as Israel, Hamas await talks for Gaza truce phase 2</a>
Trump said Palestinians could live their lives in &ldquo;peace and harmony&rdquo; somewhere else, and added, "The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it, too. We&rsquo;ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site."&nbsp;
The US President's announcement followed a permanent resettlement plan for two million Palestinians living in Gaza to neighbouring countries.
The Israeli PM responded to the US president's announcement and said the takeover of Gaza by the US is "worthwhile" to pursue.
&ldquo;He sees a different future for that piece of land that has been the focus of so much terrorism, so much, so many attacks against us, so many, so many trials and so many tribulations,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a press briefing.&nbsp;
The Israeli PM said that Trump's idea could "change history"
Also read: <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">&lsquo;We&rsquo;re just getting started&rsquo;: White House recaps two weeks of Trump presidency in 95 seconds</a>
<h2>Netanyahu gifts Trump 'golden pager'</h2>
The Israeli prime minister reportedly gifted US President Donald Trump a golden pager and a regular one, during his meeting at the White House. The gift was a reference to the deadly operation that decimated the Hezbollah terror group.&nbsp;
"That was a great operation,&rdquo; Trump responded, according to a Channel 12 report.&nbsp;
In a gesture of return gift, Trump gave Netanyahu a photo of the two of them from the visit, with the dedication &ldquo;To Bibi, a great leader.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World Trending: One user posted the video with the caption, "You are president of the US, not Netanyahu's slave.". He added, "Netanyahu humiliated Trump and America today."

US President Donald Trump has once again become a talk of social media after a video of him was shared. In the video, he is seen pulling a chair for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to the White House on Tuesday. Netizens reacted to the video, some of them criticising the move, while some called him a "gentleman". One user posted the video with the caption, "You are president of the US, not Netanyahu's slave." He added, "Netanyahu humiliated Trump and America today." Also read: 'That was a great operation': Trump says as Netanyahu gifts US president a golden pager 🚨🇮🇱🇺🇸 NETANYAHU HUMILIATED TRUMP & AMERICA TODAY! YOU ARE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, NOT NETANYAHU'S SLAVE @realDonaldTrump! pic.twitter.com/pLd04EMwQi — Jackson Hinkle 🇺🇸 (@jacksonhinklle) February 5, 2025 While another user questioned, "Who's the President of the United States? Who's President of the United States?#Netanyahu #Trump pic.twitter.com/N9BM1JoDYj — elina e (@elina_e6031) February 5, 2025 While the users commented on the viral posts, calling Trump a "waiter" at a restaurant serving Netanyahu. Another post went viral, in which the user captioned, "The real president of US. World is being ruled by some evil billionaires and Jew Bankers who employ people like Netanyahu who then employs people like Trump, Biden, Farage, Bedinoch, and Starmer." Also read: 'We will own it': Donald Trump vows to 'take over' Gaza in press conference with Netanyahu The real president of US. World is being ruled by some evil billionaires and Jew Bankers who employ people like Netanyahu who then employs people like Trump, Biden, Farage, Bedinoch and Starmer. pic.twitter.com/IWVy8t85GM — Dr F N. (@boredtweeple) February 5, 2025 One user posted, "From the President of the United States to a waiter for an Israeli official." Trump and Netanyahu met in the United States on Tuesday and held a joint press conference, addressing issues including the Gaza ceasefire and Iran. Both leaders discussed the fate of Gaza, in which Trump vowed that the US would "take over" and "own" the Gaza Strip and deploy American troops in the region if necessary. Also read: Netanyahu to meet Trump as Israel, Hamas await talks for Gaza truce phase 2 Trump said Palestinians could live their lives in “peace and harmony” somewhere else, and added, "The US will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it, too. We’ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site." The US President's announcement followed a permanent resettlement plan for two million Palestinians living in Gaza to neighbouring countries. The Israeli PM responded to the US president's announcement and said the takeover of Gaza by the US is "worthwhile" to pursue. “He sees a different future for that piece of land that has been the focus of so much terrorism, so much, so many attacks against us, so many, so many trials and so many tribulations,” Netanyahu said in a press briefing. The Israeli PM said that Trump's idea could "change history" Also read: ‘We’re just getting started’: White House recaps two weeks of Trump presidency in 95 seconds Netanyahu gifts Trump 'golden pager' The Israeli prime minister reportedly gifted US President Donald Trump a golden pager and a regular one, during his meeting at the White House. The gift was a reference to the deadly operation that decimated the Hezbollah terror group. "That was a great operation,” Trump responded, according to a Channel 12 report. In a gesture of return gift, Trump gave Netanyahu a photo of the two of them from the visit, with the dedication “To Bibi, a great leader.” (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: As Trump pulls a chair for Netanyahu, netizens ask 'Who's president of United States?'

Salvage crews have recovered the bodies of all 67 people killed when a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided near Washington and plunged into the Potomac River, officials said Tuesday.
All but one of the bodies have been identified, said a statement from a variety of government agencies involved in the recovery effort after the deadliest US air crash in 20 years.
The statement called the completion of the search for remains a "significant step" toward bringing closure to the families of the people who died in the accident last week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-man-sitting-in-restaurant-hit-by-debris-from-philadelphia-plane-crash-8685220">Video: Man sitting in restaurant hit by debris from Philadelphia plane crash</a>
"Our hearts are with the victims' families as they navigate this tragic loss," the statement said. "We extend our deepest condolences and remain committed to supporting them through this difficult time."
Crews continue working to recover the wreckage of the passenger plane -- a Bombardier CRJ-700 operated by American Eagle airlines -- from the frigid waters of the Potomac.
So far, crews have retrieved pieces including the right wing, a center section of the fuselage, part of the left wing, the tail cone, and the rudder, the National Transportation Safety Board said.
Work to recover the chopper will begin when the plane work is done, the city agencies said.
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>
Sixty passengers on the plane and four crew members were killed in Wednesday's accident, along with three soldiers aboard the US Army Black Hawk helicopter.
There were no survivors.
The plane was on a flight from Wichita, Kansas, to Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington when the collision occurred.
President Donald Trump was quick to blame diversity hiring policies for the accident, although no evidence has emerged that they were responsible.
Trump also said the helicopter, which was on a routine training mission, appeared to be flying too high.
According to US media reports, the control tower at the busy airport may have been understaffed at the time of the accident.
The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to compile a preliminary report within 30 days, although a full investigation could take a year.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

All but one of the bodies have been identified, said a statement from a variety of government agencies involved in the recovery effort after the deadliest US air crash in 20 years.

Salvage crews have recovered the bodies of all 67 people killed when a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided near Washington and plunged into the Potomac River, officials said Tuesday. All but one of the bodies have been identified, said a statement from a variety of government agencies involved in the recovery effort after the deadliest US air crash in 20 years. The statement called the completion of the search for remains a "significant step" toward bringing closure to the families of the people who died in the accident last week. Also read | Video: Man sitting in restaurant hit by debris from Philadelphia plane crash "Our hearts are with the victims' families as they navigate this tragic loss," the statement said. "We extend our deepest condolences and remain committed to supporting them through this difficult time." Crews continue working to recover the wreckage of the passenger plane -- a Bombardier CRJ-700 operated by American Eagle airlines -- from the frigid waters of the Potomac. So far, crews have retrieved pieces including the right wing, a center section of the fuselage, part of the left wing, the tail cone, and the rudder, the National Transportation Safety Board said. Work to recover the chopper will begin when the plane work is done, the city agencies said. Also read | Washington DC Crash: Flight data raises more questions as discrepancies arise Sixty passengers on the plane and four crew members were killed in Wednesday's accident, along with three soldiers aboard the US Army Black Hawk helicopter. There were no survivors. The plane was on a flight from Wichita, Kansas, to Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington when the collision occurred. President Donald Trump was quick to blame diversity hiring policies for the accident, although no evidence has emerged that they were responsible. Trump also said the helicopter, which was on a routine training mission, appeared to be flying too high. According to US media reports, the control tower at the busy airport may have been understaffed at the time of the accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to compile a preliminary report within 30 days, although a full investigation could take a year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Washington DC plane crash: All 67 bodies recovered from deadly collision

Thailand cut cross-border electricity supplies to five locations in Myanmar on Wednesday, in an effort to stamp out online scam centres blamed for scaring away Chinese tourists.
Scam compounds have mushroomed in Myanmar's lawless borderlands, run by criminal gangs and staffed by foreigners trafficked and forced to work swindling their compatriots in an industry analysts say is worth billions of dollars.
Beijing has grown increasingly concerned about the centres as many of those involved -- both victims and perpetrators -- are Chinese.
"Thailand has stopped the electricity supply to Myanmar in five locations based on the decision of the National Security Council," Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/openai-chief-sam-altman-talks-ai-collaboration-with-india-calls-country-incredibly-important-market-8693322">OpenAI chief Sam Altman talks AI collaboration with India, calls country 'incredibly important market'</a>
Transmission was cut at two points in Mae Sai in the north, two in Mae Sot in the west and one at Three Pagodas Pass, also in the west.
Anutin said electricity sales to Myanmar at these five locations earned Thailand around 50 million baht ($1.5 million) a month.
"The electricity supply is not being stopped because the companies violated the contract, but because the electricity is being misused for scams, drugs and call centres," Anutin said.
"No one can accuse Thailand now of being part of supporting illegal businesses."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-leader-khamenei-appoints-hezbollah-chief-naim-qassem-as-his-lebanon-representative-8693288">Iran's leader Khamenei appoints Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem as his Lebanon representative</a>
The move came as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra travelled to Beijing for talks with President Xi Jinping, with the scam centres likely to be on the agenda.
Fears among Chinese tourists of being kidnapped and forced to work in scam centres was blamed for a sharp drop in visitor numbers over the Lunar New Year holiday last week.
China is a hugely important market for Thailand as it seeks to rebuild its crucial tourism sector after the devastating impact of travel shutdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the scam centres were a "national security issue".
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: Scam compounds have mushroomed in Myanmar's lawless borderlands, run by criminal gangs and staffed by foreigners trafficked and forced to work swindling their compatriots in an industry analysts say is worth billions of dollars.

Thailand cut cross-border electricity supplies to five locations in Myanmar on Wednesday, in an effort to stamp out online scam centres blamed for scaring away Chinese tourists. Scam compounds have mushroomed in Myanmar's lawless borderlands, run by criminal gangs and staffed by foreigners trafficked and forced to work swindling their compatriots in an industry analysts say is worth billions of dollars. Beijing has grown increasingly concerned about the centres as many of those involved -- both victims and perpetrators -- are Chinese. "Thailand has stopped the electricity supply to Myanmar in five locations based on the decision of the National Security Council," Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters. Also read: OpenAI chief Sam Altman talks AI collaboration with India, calls country 'incredibly important market' Transmission was cut at two points in Mae Sai in the north, two in Mae Sot in the west and one at Three Pagodas Pass, also in the west. Anutin said electricity sales to Myanmar at these five locations earned Thailand around 50 million baht ($1.5 million) a month. "The electricity supply is not being stopped because the companies violated the contract, but because the electricity is being misused for scams, drugs and call centres," Anutin said. "No one can accuse Thailand now of being part of supporting illegal businesses." Also read: Iran's leader Khamenei appoints Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem as his Lebanon representative The move came as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra travelled to Beijing for talks with President Xi Jinping, with the scam centres likely to be on the agenda. Fears among Chinese tourists of being kidnapped and forced to work in scam centres was blamed for a sharp drop in visitor numbers over the Lunar New Year holiday last week. China is a hugely important market for Thailand as it seeks to rebuild its crucial tourism sector after the devastating impact of travel shutdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the scam centres were a "national security issue". 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.

Thailand kills power to Myanmar’s billion-dollar fraud networks

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has named Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem as his "representative" in Lebanon, Iranian media reported Wednesday.&nbsp;
"The leader of the revolution in a decree introduced Sheikh Naim Qassem, secretary general of Hezbollah, as his representative in Lebanon," Tasnim news agency said.&nbsp;
Tasnim carried a copy of the official decree which said Qassem will represent Khamenei in handling "non-litigious matters" and "managing religious affairs" in Lebanon.&nbsp;
The news agency recalled that Qassem's predecessor Hassan Nasrallah -- who was killed in an Israeli air strike on south Beirut in September 27 -- had held the same title.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-looking-for-quick-ways-to-build-nuclear-weapon-says-us-report-8688177">Iran looking for quick ways to build nuclear weapon, says US: Report</a>
Hezbollah is part of the "axis of resistance", an alliance of Iran-backed armed groups opposed to Israel and its ally US.
Khamenei, who has the final say in all matters of state in Iran, has representatives in all of Iran's provinces with a mandate to collect religious funds and perform other duties.&nbsp;
Qassem was named Hezbollah leader in October after heir apparent Hashem Safieddine was killed in an Israeli strike shortly after Nasrallah's death.&nbsp;
Hezbollah is to hold a public funeral for both Nasrallah and Safieddine on February 23. It had put off public commemorations for safety reasons until after a fragile ceasefire with Israel came into effect on November 27.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Middle East: Qassem was named Hezbollah leader in October after heir apparent Hashem Safieddine was killed in an Israeli strike shortly after Nasrallah's death. 

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has named Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem as his "representative" in Lebanon, Iranian media reported Wednesday. "The leader of the revolution in a decree introduced Sheikh Naim Qassem, secretary general of Hezbollah, as his representative in Lebanon," Tasnim news agency said. Tasnim carried a copy of the official decree which said Qassem will represent Khamenei in handling "non-litigious matters" and "managing religious affairs" in Lebanon. The news agency recalled that Qassem's predecessor Hassan Nasrallah -- who was killed in an Israeli air strike on south Beirut in September 27 -- had held the same title. Also read | Iran looking for quick ways to build nuclear weapon, says US: Report Hezbollah is part of the "axis of resistance", an alliance of Iran-backed armed groups opposed to Israel and its ally US. Khamenei, who has the final say in all matters of state in Iran, has representatives in all of Iran's provinces with a mandate to collect religious funds and perform other duties. Qassem was named Hezbollah leader in October after heir apparent Hashem Safieddine was killed in an Israeli strike shortly after Nasrallah's death. Hezbollah is to hold a public funeral for both Nasrallah and Safieddine on February 23. It had put off public commemorations for safety reasons until after a fragile ceasefire with Israel came into effect on November 27. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iran's leader Khamenei appoints Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem as his Lebanon representative

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