AI kill switch explained: Why shutting down a dangerous AI may not be as simple as pressing a button

Putin's United Russia party wins 355 seats in Duma election; 4 other parties cross threshold to enter parliament

US ships in Indian Ocean ‘will be attacked’ if war resumes, warns Iran

Delhi Air pollution: Strict crackdown on waste burning

SNL UK takes aim at Ed Sheeran with AI Princess Diana sketch

‘0% chance’: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang dismisses AI extinction fears by 2030

Samay Raina-Mukesh Chhabra controversy explained: What happened over girlfriend joke on India's Got Latent?

What TSMC's 2nm technology means for Apple

Trump says he'll build an 'AI Force' and appoint a czar, for 'high IQ' people only

'Were you here to sell chickpeas?': Wasim Akram criticises Babar Azam's captaincy

Apple reportedly building AI server with M8 Ultra chips, may use Nvidia technology

Glitch in the matrix caught on camera: Woman vanishes after talking to reporter

Samsung raises Galaxy S26 prices by Rs 20,000: Here’s what each model now costs

Fleming's aspirations as England Test coach include WTC, top ranking and Ashes

J&K Assembly Session begins amid chaos: BJP, ruling alliance clash as statehood demand dominates

Trump-Xi summit: US Treasury Secretary holds meeting with Chinese Vice Premier

Bessent meets China’s He Lifeng to prepare for Trump-Xi summit

S Jaishankar, former Army chief among high-profile names issued Delhi SIR notices

CDU suffers historic defeat in eastern Germany as AfD surges, Merz vows to stay on

Iran sets 7 conditions to end war with US: What are Tehran’s demands?

Arvind Kejriwal, family members, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta get SIR notices

AI actress Tilly Norwood glitches mid-interview, switches from English to Chinese | Watch

Saudi vs Houthis: Houthis claim missiles & drones used in attack on key Saudi sites

Punjab man consumes poison outside DC office; Congress, BJP target AAP government

Saudi Arabia exits China-led mBridge digital currency platform amid Saudi-Houthi conflict

'Lot of things to learn from experienced players': Jayasuriya backs Rohit, Virat for 2027 ODI World Cup

Chancellor Friedrich Merz vows to stay on as exit polls signal major poll setback

Taylor Swift has a 'proud wife' moment as Travis Kelce scores first touchdown of season: 'That’s my husband!'

Several petrol pumps, other businesses to refuse UPI payments above Rs 2,000 from Oct 16: Is it legal?

Mahabharat actor Saurav Gurjar arrested in Hyderabad, sent to 14-day judicial custody in sexual exploitation case

New OTT releases this week (September 21-27, 2026): Shaque: Trust No One, Hunkkaar, Don’t Be Shy- 5 new titles coming to Netflix, Prime Video and more

WATCH | Mysterious lights over Tehran caught on video. Drone, aircraft or something else?

Noel Tata challenges Chandrasekaran’s reappointment as Tata Sons chairman. What happened at the board meeting

Kareena Kapoor birthday special: Inside her net worth, best movies, luxurious lifestyle and love story with Saif Ali Khan

Pilot recreates Mona Lisa in sky over Oklahoma and Arkansas in four-hour flight: VIDEO

Delhi: Flagged voters remain on the draft roll but face hearings

China now makes advanced memory chips without the machines it was banned from buying

Maharashtra TET paper leak: All 18 accused arrested. How alleged Agra-to-Maharashtra racket unfolded

Jailer 2: Vidya Balan joins Rajinikanth's upcoming film as Kantha | Watch

Microsoft executive called AI training the ‘largest theft of labour in human history’

40-foot waves crash into cruise ship in dangerous stretch near Antarctica. Watch

Italy moves to ban face veils in schools as Meloni pushes new integration measures

The FBI director has come under fire once again.&nbsp;This time, it is for an eligibility criterion that has been updated. But the change has triggered confusion and questions from both sides of the political aisle.&nbsp;The change concerns a crime, which has been removed from a long list of activities which make a person ineligible to enrol in the FBI. And that, is bestiality.&nbsp;Kash Patel has removed bestiality as an automatic disqualifier for candidates applying for a job with the FBI.&nbsp;Earlier, the agency disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore.&nbsp;The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers who grilled Patel on the matter during a hearing.&nbsp;The toughest questions came from Louisiana senator of the Red Camp, John Kennedy.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his typical style, Kennedy questioned what Patel meant by the term, 'victims of bestiality', further asking if the FBI director was referring to animals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;But, grinning at the remarks, Patel declined it was a reference to animals; rather, it was about individuals who have been convicted of the unnatural sexual crime.&nbsp;In his defence, the FBI director justified the decision on grounds that many people who are victims of human trafficking get forced to commit criminal and unnatural acts, and they should not be removed from the process of joining the FBI.&nbsp;However, Kennedy's grilling did not end here. The veteran Republican lawmaker went on to question why criminal activities were important to remove or re-adjust and why the FBI would even 'get into it.'&nbsp;Bestiality is the unnatural sexual act between a human and animal. Until now, it was an automatic disqualifier in the FBI enrolment process.&nbsp;However, with the changes introduced by Patel, it no longer remains a roadblock, much to the shock of many.

Earlier, the FBI disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers.

The FBI director has come under fire once again. This time, it is for an eligibility criterion that has been updated. But the change has triggered confusion and questions from both sides of the political aisle. The change concerns a crime, which has been removed from a long list of activities which make a person ineligible to enrol in the FBI. And that, is bestiality. Kash Patel has removed bestiality as an automatic disqualifier for candidates applying for a job with the FBI. Earlier, the agency disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers who grilled Patel on the matter during a hearing. The toughest questions came from Louisiana senator of the Red Camp, John Kennedy. In his typical style, Kennedy questioned what Patel meant by the term, 'victims of bestiality', further asking if the FBI director was referring to animals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed But, grinning at the remarks, Patel declined it was a reference to animals; rather, it was about individuals who have been convicted of the unnatural sexual crime. In his defence, the FBI director justified the decision on grounds that many people who are victims of human trafficking get forced to commit criminal and unnatural acts, and they should not be removed from the process of joining the FBI. However, Kennedy's grilling did not end here. The veteran Republican lawmaker went on to question why criminal activities were important to remove or re-adjust and why the FBI would even 'get into it.' Bestiality is the unnatural sexual act between a human and animal. Until now, it was an automatic disqualifier in the FBI enrolment process. However, with the changes introduced by Patel, it no longer remains a roadblock, much to the shock of many.

Earlier, the FBI disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers.

Kash Patel grilled over FBI decision to drop bestiality as hiring disqualifier | Race to Power

Sweden’s foreign ministry on Wednesday (Sep 16) said that it had expelled an Iranian embassy employee and summoned the country’s ambassador, saying that their activity was incompatible with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The move was taken as Stockholm accused Tehran of making threats against Jewish and Israeli interests in Sweden.<h2>Why was Iranian embassy official expelled?</h2>Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said that the embassy official was asked to leave because of “activities that are not compatible with the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations.” She did not provide further details over the decision but said that the move was taken “to protect our citizens and other Swedish interests.”Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said that Iran has long conducted activities that threatened security in Sweden, targeting Jewish and Israeli interests and those who oppose the Iranian regime in the country.“We know that Iran, over a long period of time, has conducted activities that threaten security in and against Sweden, targeting both individuals who oppose the Iranian regime and various Jewish and Israeli interests in our country,” Strommer told AFP. “This has, among other things, been done by making use of criminal networks.”<h2>Iran accused of ‘acts of violence’ in Sweden</h2>The Swedish Security Service (Sapo) has earlier accused Tehran of recruiting members for a criminal gang to engage in “acts of violence” against Israeli and others in Sweden – a claim Iran has refuted.Sapo spokesman Jonathan Svensson told AFP, “When it comes to what has prompted the government’s announcement today, I am not in a position to go into any details, as it concerns our intelligence work.”“We can confirm that Iran continues to engage in activities that pose security threats in and against Sweden. This includes, among other things, attempts to use proxies, such as criminal networks, to carry out attacks or acts of violence,” he said.<h2>Israeli interests under threat in Sweden?</h2>In recent years, there have been several incidents when Israeli interests were targeted in Sweden. In June 2024, Israeli military technology firm Elbit Systems was targeted when two insulated flasks packed with plastic explosives were found outside its offices in Gothenburg. The company is known for its unmanned aerial systems. Later in October, a 13-year-old boy opened fire at the entrance of an office of the same firm. In April 2025, four teenagers were sentenced to prison for recruiting the boy for carrying out the attack.In May 2025, shots were fired outside the Israeli embassy, prompting Sweden authorities to boost security around Israeli interests and Jewish community institutions.

Sweden has expelled an Iranian embassy employee and summoned Iran’s ambassador, in a move that has sparked fresh diplomatic tensions between Stockholm and Tehran.

Sweden’s foreign ministry on Wednesday (Sep 16) said that it had expelled an Iranian embassy employee and summoned the country’s ambassador, saying that their activity was incompatible with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The move was taken as Stockholm accused Tehran of making threats against Jewish and Israeli interests in Sweden. Why was Iranian embassy official expelled? Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said that the embassy official was asked to leave because of “activities that are not compatible with the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations.” She did not provide further details over the decision but said that the move was taken “to protect our citizens and other Swedish interests.” Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said that Iran has long conducted activities that threatened security in Sweden, targeting Jewish and Israeli interests and those who oppose the Iranian regime in the country. “We know that Iran, over a long period of time, has conducted activities that threaten security in and against Sweden, targeting both individuals who oppose the Iranian regime and various Jewish and Israeli interests in our country,” Strommer told AFP. “This has, among other things, been done by making use of criminal networks.” Iran accused of ‘acts of violence’ in Sweden The Swedish Security Service (Sapo) has earlier accused Tehran of recruiting members for a criminal gang to engage in “acts of violence” against Israeli and others in Sweden – a claim Iran has refuted. Sapo spokesman Jonathan Svensson told AFP, “When it comes to what has prompted the government’s announcement today, I am not in a position to go into any details, as it concerns our intelligence work.” “We can confirm that Iran continues to engage in activities that pose security threats in and against Sweden. This includes, among other things, attempts to use proxies, such as criminal networks, to carry out attacks or acts of violence,” he said. Israeli interests under threat in Sweden? In recent years, there have been several incidents when Israeli interests were targeted in Sweden. In June 2024, Israeli military technology firm Elbit Systems was targeted when two insulated flasks packed with plastic explosives were found outside its offices in Gothenburg. The company is known for its unmanned aerial systems. Later in October, a 13-year-old boy opened fire at the entrance of an office of the same firm. In April 2025, four teenagers were sentenced to prison for recruiting the boy for carrying out the attack. In May 2025, shots were fired outside the Israeli embassy, prompting Sweden authorities to boost security around Israeli interests and Jewish community institutions.

Sweden has expelled an Iranian embassy employee and summoned Iran’s ambassador, in a move that has sparked fresh diplomatic tensions between Stockholm and Tehran.

Sweden expels Iranian embassy official – What triggered the diplomatic shock?

The European Union plans to ban social media use for children under 13 and allow limited, supervised access for those aged 13 to 15, under new plans announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Sept 16).&nbsp;"It is time for Europe to act," von der Leyen said during her annual address to the European Parliament. She also warned that the EU must make its own rules rather than allow big technology companies to decide them.&nbsp;The proposal comes amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s physical and mental health. Policymakers around the world are facing increasing pressure to introduce stricter rules for children online.&nbsp;However, the European Commission has proposed a gradual approach based on the age of the child.<h3>What are the proposed age limits?</h3>Under the plan, children below 13 would not be allowed to use social media.&nbsp;Those aged 13 to under 15 would only be allowed to use limited accounts created and supervised by a parent or guardian. These accounts would have fewer features and would be subject to a daily time limit of one hour.&nbsp;For teenagers aged 15 to 18, social media platforms would be required to follow stricter safety-by-design rules.&nbsp;"No social media under the age of 13. No personal account under the age of 15," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;The proposed rules would also target addictive features such as infinite scrolling when they are used by children. Platforms that violate the rules could face fines of up to six per cent of their annual turnover, according to details in a draft document.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-will-be-completely-different-and-very-short-if-europe-attacks-russia-warns-lavrov-1789561780082">War will be ‘completely different and very short’ if Europe attacks Russia, warns Lavrov</a><h3>EU steps up pressure on Big Tech</h3>Von der Leyen highlighted the case of a 14-year-old girl in Belgium named Olea, who died by suicide a month ago after being bullied. She quoted the girl's mother as saying she believed her daughter would still be alive without social media.&nbsp;Von der Leyen said the problem of addictive design is not limited to children and can affect users of all ages. She said the EU would propose additional rules later this autumn.&nbsp;The announcement comes after pressure from several EU countries, including France, Denmark and Greece, for stronger action to protect children from online harms.&nbsp;Australia became the first country to introduce a ban on social media for children under 16 last year. The move has since encouraged similar proposals in other countries.&nbsp;France welcomed the EU announcement. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon called it "a step in the right direction" as Paris continues to work on its own legislation.&nbsp;The EU has already taken action against major technology companies through its Digital Services Act. The bloc has asked Meta's Facebook and Instagram, as well as TikTok, to address concerns over potentially addictive platform designs.&nbsp;However, Brussels has said progress has been slower than it expected and is now considering additional measures to strengthen protections for children online.

The European Union plans to ban social media for children under 13 and introduce supervised, limited access for those aged 13 to 15 under new online safety rules.

The European Union plans to ban social media use for children under 13 and allow limited, supervised access for those aged 13 to 15, under new plans announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Sept 16). "It is time for Europe to act," von der Leyen said during her annual address to the European Parliament. She also warned that the EU must make its own rules rather than allow big technology companies to decide them. The proposal comes amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s physical and mental health. Policymakers around the world are facing increasing pressure to introduce stricter rules for children online. However, the European Commission has proposed a gradual approach based on the age of the child. What are the proposed age limits? Under the plan, children below 13 would not be allowed to use social media. Those aged 13 to under 15 would only be allowed to use limited accounts created and supervised by a parent or guardian. These accounts would have fewer features and would be subject to a daily time limit of one hour. For teenagers aged 15 to 18, social media platforms would be required to follow stricter safety-by-design rules. "No social media under the age of 13. No personal account under the age of 15," von der Leyen said. The proposed rules would also target addictive features such as infinite scrolling when they are used by children. Platforms that violate the rules could face fines of up to six per cent of their annual turnover, according to details in a draft document. Also Read: War will be ‘completely different and very short’ if Europe attacks Russia, warns Lavrov EU steps up pressure on Big Tech Von der Leyen highlighted the case of a 14-year-old girl in Belgium named Olea, who died by suicide a month ago after being bullied. She quoted the girl's mother as saying she believed her daughter would still be alive without social media. Von der Leyen said the problem of addictive design is not limited to children and can affect users of all ages. She said the EU would propose additional rules later this autumn. The announcement comes after pressure from several EU countries, including France, Denmark and Greece, for stronger action to protect children from online harms. Australia became the first country to introduce a ban on social media for children under 16 last year. The move has since encouraged similar proposals in other countries. France welcomed the EU announcement. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon called it "a step in the right direction" as Paris continues to work on its own legislation. The EU has already taken action against major technology companies through its Digital Services Act. The bloc has asked Meta's Facebook and Instagram, as well as TikTok, to address concerns over potentially addictive platform designs. However, Brussels has said progress has been slower than it expected and is now considering additional measures to strengthen protections for children online.

The European Union plans to ban social media for children under 13 and introduce supervised, limited access for those aged 13 to 15 under new online safety rules.

No social media under 13, supervised access till 15: EU unveils new online safety rules for children

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci has been convicted of four war crimes linked to the 1998-99 Kosovo war by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague. The EU-backed court found the 58-year-old former president guilty of murder, torture, cruel treatment and arbitrary detention. The verdict marks a major development in the long-running case against Thaci and three other former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA).Thaci is standing trial alongside Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi, all former senior KLA figures. Prosecutors have sought maximum prison terms of up to 45 years for the four men. They have denied all the charges.<h2>Thaci resigns as president</h2>Thaci resigned as Kosovo's president nearly six years ago after the charges were brought against him, allowing him to travel to The Hague to face the proceedings.Wearing a suit and tie, Thaci stood silently as Presiding Judge Charles Smith read out the court's ruling.At the end of his nearly three-year trial in February, Thaci told the judges that he had spent his life defending Kosovo's freedom, life and dignity."Throughout my life, I stood with the people of Kosovo defending freedom, life and dignity," Thaci said. He added that he had been guided by Western ideals of democracy, equality and justice.<h2>What are the charges?</h2>Prosecutors accused Thaci and the other former KLA leaders of targeting political opponents and civilians who were considered collaborators or traitors during the conflict.The KLA fought against Serbian forces during Kosovo's 1998-99 war for independence. The conflict ended after a NATO bombing campaign against Yugoslavia and the subsequent withdrawal of Serbian forces from Kosovo.The Kosovo Specialist Chambers were established to investigate alleged crimes committed during and after the war. Its proceedings are largely handled by international staff because of concerns over witness safety and security.The court has previously convicted individuals in cases involving witness intimidation. In 2022, two leaders of a Kosovo war veterans' association were found guilty of intimidating witnesses after confidential court documents were leaked and publicised.Thaci is also facing a separate trial over allegations of witness intimidation. That case is due to begin later this month.<h2>Strong reaction in Kosovo</h2>The verdict has triggered strong reactions in Kosovo, where Thaci and the other former KLA commanders are widely regarded as national heroes.Thousands of people gathered in Pristina over the weekend to show their support for the four men. Many carried red and black Albanian flags, while portraits of the former KLA fighters were displayed across the city.A large digital clock counting down to the verdict had also been installed in the capital. One banner called on the court to declare the four men innocent "in the name of the people".Thaci returned from what he described as political exile in Switzerland to join Kosovo's independence struggle. During the conflict, he earned the nickname "the Snake" because of his ability to evade Serbian forces.The conviction comes as proceedings against the other former KLA leaders continue, while Thaci's separate witness intimidation case is also set to move forward.

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci was convicted of four war crimes by a Hague court, including murder and torture, facing up to 45 years in prison despite widespread public support.

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci has been convicted of four war crimes linked to the 1998-99 Kosovo war by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague. The EU-backed court found the 58-year-old former president guilty of murder, torture, cruel treatment and arbitrary detention. The verdict marks a major development in the long-running case against Thaci and three other former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). Thaci is standing trial alongside Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi, all former senior KLA figures. Prosecutors have sought maximum prison terms of up to 45 years for the four men. They have denied all the charges. Thaci resigns as president Thaci resigned as Kosovo's president nearly six years ago after the charges were brought against him, allowing him to travel to The Hague to face the proceedings. Wearing a suit and tie, Thaci stood silently as Presiding Judge Charles Smith read out the court's ruling. At the end of his nearly three-year trial in February, Thaci told the judges that he had spent his life defending Kosovo's freedom, life and dignity. "Throughout my life, I stood with the people of Kosovo defending freedom, life and dignity," Thaci said. He added that he had been guided by Western ideals of democracy, equality and justice. What are the charges? Prosecutors accused Thaci and the other former KLA leaders of targeting political opponents and civilians who were considered collaborators or traitors during the conflict. The KLA fought against Serbian forces during Kosovo's 1998-99 war for independence. The conflict ended after a NATO bombing campaign against Yugoslavia and the subsequent withdrawal of Serbian forces from Kosovo. The Kosovo Specialist Chambers were established to investigate alleged crimes committed during and after the war. Its proceedings are largely handled by international staff because of concerns over witness safety and security. The court has previously convicted individuals in cases involving witness intimidation. In 2022, two leaders of a Kosovo war veterans' association were found guilty of intimidating witnesses after confidential court documents were leaked and publicised. Thaci is also facing a separate trial over allegations of witness intimidation. That case is due to begin later this month. Strong reaction in Kosovo The verdict has triggered strong reactions in Kosovo, where Thaci and the other former KLA commanders are widely regarded as national heroes. Thousands of people gathered in Pristina over the weekend to show their support for the four men. Many carried red and black Albanian flags, while portraits of the former KLA fighters were displayed across the city. A large digital clock counting down to the verdict had also been installed in the capital. One banner called on the court to declare the four men innocent "in the name of the people". Thaci returned from what he described as political exile in Switzerland to join Kosovo's independence struggle. During the conflict, he earned the nickname "the Snake" because of his ability to evade Serbian forces. The conviction comes as proceedings against the other former KLA leaders continue, while Thaci's separate witness intimidation case is also set to move forward.

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci was convicted of four war crimes by a Hague court, including murder and torture, facing up to 45 years in prison despite widespread public support.

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci, guilty of four war crimes, faces up to 45 years

India has condemned the alleged drone attack near Mecca after Saudi Arabia said its air defences intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by Yemen-based Houthi rebels. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the incident was particularly concerning because of Mecca’s importance to Muslims around the world. India also reiterated its opposition to attacks on Saudi territory and actions that put civilians and infrastructure at risk.&nbsp;“The incident near Makkah is particularly concerning, given the special significance of the city to Muslims across the world,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.&nbsp;India also expressed hope that peace and stability would return to the region at the earliest.&nbsp;“We hope for the early restoration of peace and stability in the region,” Jaiswal said.<h3>Saudi Arabia intercepts drone near Mecca</h3>The Saudi-led coalition said its air defences intercepted and destroyed the drone south of Mecca on Tuesday evening before it could enter the restricted airspace around the holy city.&nbsp;Coalition spokesman Major General Turki Al-Malki described the incident as a hostile act and warned that the security of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims was a “red line”. He said the coalition would take necessary measures to prevent further attacks.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our response to media queries regarding the drone attack near Makkah ⬇️ 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/l3qVpApFa3">https://t.co/l3qVpApFa3</a> <a href="https://t.co/2bXH7fzijo">pic.twitter.com/2bXH7fzijo</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/2100176002878144748?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Saudi Arabia said the drone was launched by the Houthis, who are based in Yemen and have been involved in the wider regional conflict.&nbsp;However, Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree denied that the group had targeted Mecca or other Islamic holy sites. He said Houthi operations were aimed at Saudi oil facilities and military bases away from the sacred sites.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-will-be-completely-different-and-very-short-if-europe-attacks-russia-warns-lavrov-1789561780082">War will be ‘completely different and very short’ if Europe attacks Russia, warns Lavrov</a><h3>OIC backs Saudi Arabia</h3>The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also condemned the reported incident and expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;The 57-member organisation backed measures taken by Riyadh to protect its security and sovereignty, as well as the safety and sanctity of Islamic holy sites.&nbsp;The incident comes amid rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, with recent attacks also raising concerns about regional security and shipping routes.

India condemned the reported drone attack near Mecca, with the MEA calling the incident particularly concerning due to the city’s significance to Muslims worldwide.

India has condemned the alleged drone attack near Mecca after Saudi Arabia said its air defences intercepted and destroyed a drone launched by Yemen-based Houthi rebels. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the incident was particularly concerning because of Mecca’s importance to Muslims around the world. India also reiterated its opposition to attacks on Saudi territory and actions that put civilians and infrastructure at risk. “The incident near Makkah is particularly concerning, given the special significance of the city to Muslims across the world,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. India also expressed hope that peace and stability would return to the region at the earliest. “We hope for the early restoration of peace and stability in the region,” Jaiswal said. Saudi Arabia intercepts drone near Mecca The Saudi-led coalition said its air defences intercepted and destroyed the drone south of Mecca on Tuesday evening before it could enter the restricted airspace around the holy city. Coalition spokesman Major General Turki Al-Malki described the incident as a hostile act and warned that the security of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims was a “red line”. He said the coalition would take necessary measures to prevent further attacks.

India condemned the reported drone attack near Mecca, with the MEA calling the incident particularly concerning due to the city’s significance to Muslims worldwide.

‘Particularly concerning’: India condemns alleged Houthi drone attack near Mecca

Taiwan’s representative in India has said direct air links with New Delhi will resume on 1 December and that two semiconductor projects involving Taiwanese firms should begin operating within one to two years, as Taipei looks to expand trade and people-to-people contact.Dr Mumin Chen, who heads the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center, said the Delhi–Taipei route would be operated by EVA Air five times a week. “The first priority is that we’ve resumed the direct flight and encourage more Indian friends to visit Taiwan,” he said, adding that Taiwan would “certainly consider” new procedures to make visa applications easier for Indian travellers.Bilateral trade reached a record $12.5bn in 2025. Chen said it was expected to rise further this year, “probably $16 billion”. Taiwan’s exports, he noted, were concentrated in machinery and computer components, reflecting India’s push to expand manufacturing in information and communications technology and industrial goods.“Taiwan could play a more important role in contributing to India’s economic development and also industrialisation,” he said.On semiconductors, Chen pointed to two projects, one in Gujarat and one in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, that he said were “going very well”. “I believe that in the next one or two years we will see both projects complete and start operating.”About 40 Mandarin teachers from Taiwan already work in Indian universities. Chen said numbers would rise only gradually. India was “a very huge country”, he said, so Taipei would first identify strong universities and colleges, sign memorandums of understanding, and then recruit teachers.Labour mobility has moved more slowly. Taiwan faces shortages and India has surplus workers, but Chen acknowledged there had not been “much progress”. With flights restarting and exchanges increasing, he said, “I believe that the labour mobility issue will be solved very soon.”Chen also restated Taipei’s political position after Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met. “China in recent years has tried hard to pressure Taiwan and also to pressure other countries to assert the so-called One China principle, which we strongly object…”.China’s official account of the PM Modi-President Xi meeting in Delhi said India had restated its position on Taiwan. New Delhi readout did not repeat that language, saying both sides need to show sensitivity to each other's own "core concerns".With the UN General Assembly approaching, a Taiwanese representative repeated Taiwan’s long-standing demand for a voice at the United Nations. Taiwan has had no representation since 1971. “When we talk about the world community, you cannot exclude Taiwan,” he said. “Taiwan deserves representation in the United Nations.”

On semiconductors, Chen pointed to two projects, one in Gujarat and one in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, that he said were “going very well”. “I believe that in the next one or two years we will see both projects complete and start operating.”

Taiwan’s representative in India has said direct air links with New Delhi will resume on 1 December and that two semiconductor projects involving Taiwanese firms should begin operating within one to two years, as Taipei looks to expand trade and people-to-people contact. Dr Mumin Chen, who heads the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center, said the Delhi–Taipei route would be operated by EVA Air five times a week. “The first priority is that we’ve resumed the direct flight and encourage more Indian friends to visit Taiwan,” he said, adding that Taiwan would “certainly consider” new procedures to make visa applications easier for Indian travellers. Bilateral trade reached a record $12.5bn in 2025. Chen said it was expected to rise further this year, “probably $16 billion”. Taiwan’s exports, he noted, were concentrated in machinery and computer components, reflecting India’s push to expand manufacturing in information and communications technology and industrial goods. “Taiwan could play a more important role in contributing to India’s economic development and also industrialisation,” he said. On semiconductors, Chen pointed to two projects, one in Gujarat and one in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, that he said were “going very well”. “I believe that in the next one or two years we will see both projects complete and start operating.” About 40 Mandarin teachers from Taiwan already work in Indian universities. Chen said numbers would rise only gradually. India was “a very huge country”, he said, so Taipei would first identify strong universities and colleges, sign memorandums of understanding, and then recruit teachers. Labour mobility has moved more slowly. Taiwan faces shortages and India has surplus workers, but Chen acknowledged there had not been “much progress”. With flights restarting and exchanges increasing, he said, “I believe that the labour mobility issue will be solved very soon.” Chen also restated Taipei’s political position after Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met. “China in recent years has tried hard to pressure Taiwan and also to pressure other countries to assert the so-called One China principle, which we strongly object…”. China’s official account of the PM Modi-President Xi meeting in Delhi said India had restated its position on Taiwan. New Delhi readout did not repeat that language, saying both sides need to show sensitivity to each other's own "core concerns". With the UN General Assembly approaching, a Taiwanese representative repeated Taiwan’s long-standing demand for a voice at the United Nations. Taiwan has had no representation since 1971. “When we talk about the world community, you cannot exclude Taiwan,” he said. “Taiwan deserves representation in the United Nations.”

On semiconductors, Chen pointed to two projects, one in Gujarat and one in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, that he said were “going very well”. “I believe that in the next one or two years we will see both projects complete and start operating.”

Taiwan seeks deeper India ties as direct flights restart soon, and chip projects advance

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday that Russia has repeatedly said that is not going to attack Western countries and warned that any European military aggression against Russia would trigger a war that will be “completely different” and “very short”.&nbsp;Speaking at the International Youth Festival in the city of Yekaterinburg, Lavrov said Russian officials had over and over again stated that Moscow had no intention of attacking Europe and has “no interest in doing so.”“Russia has repeatedly said that we are not going to attack Western countries and have no interest in doing so. But if Europe, which speaks regularly about preparing for war against Russia, attacks the Russian Federation, then this will be a completely different war, and it will be very short,” he stressed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-military-commanders-from-us-israel-and-7-arab-nations-held-secret-meeting-on-iran-war-1789503060237">Top military commanders from US, Israel, and 7 Arab nations held secret meeting on Iran War</a>&nbsp;Lavrov criticised NATO expansion and Brussels’ war rhetoric while emphasising that confrontation was not Russia’s method, a position that had been repeatedly stated by the Russian leadership, including President Vladimir Putin personally.“The West made a choice long ago in favour of containing Russia,” he said, citing what he described as NATO’s “forceful” expansion toward Russia’s borders.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-carried-out-over-350-airstrikes-on-yemen-violated-sovereignty-say-houthis-1789491294418">‘US military task force aiding Saudi Arabia forces with intel, planning support’: Official</a>&nbsp;The foreign minister also criticised statements by European leaders about the need to prepare for a war with Russia, saying the issue had become a major theme among current European political leaders in Brussels.&nbsp;Lavrov slammed European leaders in Brussels for mainstreaming rhetoric about preparing for war with Moscow.He said Europeans are openly discussing plans to deploy some kind of mobilisation force on Ukrainian territory, seeking to preserve “the openly Nazi and Russophobic regime” there.\&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imran-khan-s-sons-accuse-asim-munir-of-holding-personal-grudge-against-imprisoned-father-1789484359759">Imran Khan’s sons accuse Asim Munir of holding ‘personal grudge’ against imprisoned father</a>&nbsp;Earlier speaking at a roundtable on Ukraine on Tuesday, Lavrov said that the objectives of the “special operation” remained unchanged from the outset that Russia wants to ensure its own security, prevent NATO from appearing on its borders, and protect the legitimate rights of Russians and Russian-speaking people.&nbsp;The International Youth Festival is taking place from September 11th to 17th in Yekaterinburg.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticised the statements made by European leaders about the need to prepare for a war with Russia, saying the issue had become a major theme among current European political leaders in Brussels.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday that Russia has repeatedly said that is not going to attack Western countries and warned that any European military aggression against Russia would trigger a war that will be “completely different” and “very short”. Speaking at the International Youth Festival in the city of Yekaterinburg, Lavrov said Russian officials had over and over again stated that Moscow had no intention of attacking Europe and has “no interest in doing so.” “Russia has repeatedly said that we are not going to attack Western countries and have no interest in doing so. But if Europe, which speaks regularly about preparing for war against Russia, attacks the Russian Federation, then this will be a completely different war, and it will be very short,” he stressed. Also Read: Top military commanders from US, Israel, and 7 Arab nations held secret meeting on Iran War Lavrov criticised NATO expansion and Brussels’ war rhetoric while emphasising that confrontation was not Russia’s method, a position that had been repeatedly stated by the Russian leadership, including President Vladimir Putin personally. “The West made a choice long ago in favour of containing Russia,” he said, citing what he described as NATO’s “forceful” expansion toward Russia’s borders. Also Read: ‘US military task force aiding Saudi Arabia forces with intel, planning support’: Official The foreign minister also criticised statements by European leaders about the need to prepare for a war with Russia, saying the issue had become a major theme among current European political leaders in Brussels. Lavrov slammed European leaders in Brussels for mainstreaming rhetoric about preparing for war with Moscow. He said Europeans are openly discussing plans to deploy some kind of mobilisation force on Ukrainian territory, seeking to preserve “the openly Nazi and Russophobic regime” there.\ Also Read: Imran Khan’s sons accuse Asim Munir of holding ‘personal grudge’ against imprisoned father Earlier speaking at a roundtable on Ukraine on Tuesday, Lavrov said that the objectives of the “special operation” remained unchanged from the outset that Russia wants to ensure its own security, prevent NATO from appearing on its borders, and protect the legitimate rights of Russians and Russian-speaking people. The International Youth Festival is taking place from September 11th to 17th in Yekaterinburg.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticised the statements made by European leaders about the need to prepare for a war with Russia, saying the issue had become a major theme among current European political leaders in Brussels.

War will be ‘completely different and very short’ if Europe attacks Russia, warns Lavrov

The Pakistani Navy vessel that collided with an Indian Navy warship in the North Arabian Sea has been identified as PNS Hunain, a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV). Indian officials said the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission when Hunain approached at high speed and carried out what they described as “unprofessional and unsafe” manoeuvres. India subsequently summoned Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires on Wednesday (Sep 16) and lodged a “strong protest”.<h2>What is PNS Hunain?</h2>According to reports, the vessel, part of the second batch of Yarmook-class vessels, based on Damen’s larger OPV 2600 design, has been designed for maritime security, surveillance and combat. The ship carries the pennant number F-273 and was built by Dutch shipbuilder Damen at its facility in Galați, Romania. It was commissioned in July 2024.Hunain belongs to the second batch of the Yarmook class, alongside PNS Yamama. The first two ships, PNS Yarmook and PNS Tabuk, are based on Damen’s OPV 1900 design, while the later vessels use the larger OPV 2600 platform. The OPV 2600 variant is about 98 metres long and has a displacement of around 2,600 tonnes.<h2>What are PNS Hunain’s capabilities?</h2>It is designed for extended maritime-security missions, surveillance and other naval operations. According to Damen, the platform uses four diesel engines and two controllable-pitch propellers and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots. The vessel can also carry a helicopter, an unmanned aerial vehicle and rigid inflatable boats. It can also carry mission-specific equipment.The Yarmook-class ships are equipped for maritime surveillance and security operations, while also possessing weapons for combat roles. Hunain can reportedly carry anti-ship missiles, air-defence systems, a 30mm naval gun and machine guns.According to sources familiar with the incident, the vessel sustained “severe damage” and has returned to harbour.<h2>How did the collision happen?</h2>On Tuesday (Sep 15) evening, PNS Hunain came close to an Indian Navy frontline warship during a routine surveillance mission. India has said that the Pakistani vessel was travelling at high speed and engaging in unprofessional and unsafe manoeuvring that resulted in the collision of the two ships.In response to the incident, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said, “The conduct of the Pakistani naval ship was in direct contravention of Article 10 of the Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements of April 1991.”That 1991 pact requires the two nuclear-armed neighbours to give advance notice of military movements and to exercise care at sea so that exercises and patrols do not turn into incidents. India said the collision, while occurring on the high seas, breached those rules.The Pakistani chargé d’affaires was “advised to convey to the concerned Pakistani authorities the need for all military units to observe due care and respect the provisions of the relevant agreements between the two sides in order to prevent any repeat of such incidents.”Indian sources said New Delhi’s warship suffered no major damage, no injuries and no loss of operational capability, and continued its mission. They added that the Indian Navy captain showed restraint. “Even under extreme provocation, the Indian Navy captain exercised extreme restraint by taking actions to prevent a severe accident from taking place, which could have caused serious loss of life and damage,” sources said.

PNS Hunain, Pakistan’s Yarmook-class warship, collided with an Indian Navy vessel in the North Arabian Sea. Here’s what we know about its capabilities, weapons, damage and the incident.

The Pakistani Navy vessel that collided with an Indian Navy warship in the North Arabian Sea has been identified as PNS Hunain, a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV). Indian officials said the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission when Hunain approached at high speed and carried out what they described as “unprofessional and unsafe” manoeuvres. India subsequently summoned Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires on Wednesday (Sep 16) and lodged a “strong protest”. What is PNS Hunain? According to reports, the vessel, part of the second batch of Yarmook-class vessels, based on Damen’s larger OPV 2600 design, has been designed for maritime security, surveillance and combat. The ship carries the pennant number F-273 and was built by Dutch shipbuilder Damen at its facility in Galați, Romania. It was commissioned in July 2024. Hunain belongs to the second batch of the Yarmook class, alongside PNS Yamama. The first two ships, PNS Yarmook and PNS Tabuk, are based on Damen’s OPV 1900 design, while the later vessels use the larger OPV 2600 platform. The OPV 2600 variant is about 98 metres long and has a displacement of around 2,600 tonnes. What are PNS Hunain’s capabilities? It is designed for extended maritime-security missions, surveillance and other naval operations. According to Damen, the platform uses four diesel engines and two controllable-pitch propellers and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots. The vessel can also carry a helicopter, an unmanned aerial vehicle and rigid inflatable boats. It can also carry mission-specific equipment. The Yarmook-class ships are equipped for maritime surveillance and security operations, while also possessing weapons for combat roles. Hunain can reportedly carry anti-ship missiles, air-defence systems, a 30mm naval gun and machine guns. According to sources familiar with the incident, the vessel sustained “severe damage” and has returned to harbour. How did the collision happen? On Tuesday (Sep 15) evening, PNS Hunain came close to an Indian Navy frontline warship during a routine surveillance mission. India has said that the Pakistani vessel was travelling at high speed and engaging in unprofessional and unsafe manoeuvring that resulted in the collision of the two ships. In response to the incident, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said, “The conduct of the Pakistani naval ship was in direct contravention of Article 10 of the Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements of April 1991.” That 1991 pact requires the two nuclear-armed neighbours to give advance notice of military movements and to exercise care at sea so that exercises and patrols do not turn into incidents. India said the collision, while occurring on the high seas, breached those rules. The Pakistani chargé d’affaires was “advised to convey to the concerned Pakistani authorities the need for all military units to observe due care and respect the provisions of the relevant agreements between the two sides in order to prevent any repeat of such incidents.” Indian sources said New Delhi’s warship suffered no major damage, no injuries and no loss of operational capability, and continued its mission. They added that the Indian Navy captain showed restraint. “Even under extreme provocation, the Indian Navy captain exercised extreme restraint by taking actions to prevent a severe accident from taking place, which could have caused serious loss of life and damage,” sources said.

PNS Hunain, Pakistan’s Yarmook-class warship, collided with an Indian Navy vessel in the North Arabian Sea. Here’s what we know about its capabilities, weapons, damage and the incident.

PNS Hunain: All you need to know about Pakistani vessel that hit Indian Navy warship

At least 20 people, including five children, were killed and dozens of others were missing after an apartment building collapsed in Gaza from damage sustained in earlier Israeli strikes. The six-storey building, located in the al al-Hawa area of Gaza City, had four apartments on each floor. According to locals, some 10 families had been living in the building despite warnings that it was unsafe.&nbsp;Gaza’s Civil Defence teams initially struggled to carry out rescue operations because Israeli restrictions severely limited the entry of heavy equipment into the enclave. Rescuers were forced to search through the rubble largely by hand.The situation has improved somewhat, with the teams now able to use heavy machinery borrowed from UN agencies and Egyptian aid workers.“We are still hearing voices from under the rubble, so there is still hope to find people,” said Raed al-Dahshan, director of Civil Defence in Gaza City.“The limited availability of shelter options forced residents to move into this building, believing it was safe. However, at one point it collapsed entirely, tragically crashing down on people as they slept,” he added.According to the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Gaza office, Alessandro Mrakic, about 70 to 100 people were believed to be trapped inside the rubble.“The situation, as you see, is tragic because we don't have the equipment and machinery that is needed. There are actually people digging with their bare hands,” he said.Mrakic said that about 400 other war-damaged buildings were at imminent risk of collapse across Gaza.“We need support, most importantly with machinery, equipment, among others. Our colleagues here don't have [engine] oil and spare parts to continue to work with all the equipment that is still in Gaza,” he added.<h2>Gaza’s deepening crisis</h2>According to the United Nations, an estimated 80 per cent of total structures in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged during the war. The conflict has also forced around 1.9 million people from their homes, representing nearly 90 per cent of Gaza’s population. The UN estimates that about 1.2 million displaced people are now sheltering in tents or other makeshift accommodation.Despite a ceasefire reached last October, the humanitarian crisis remains severe. The UN says continued Israeli air strikes and other attacks in densely populated areas have resulted in further deaths and damage, while forcing more residents to flee their homes.

At least 20 people, including five children, were killed after a damaged six-storey building collapsed in Gaza City. Dozens remain missing as rescuers search the rubble for survivors.

At least 20 people, including five children, were killed and dozens of others were missing after an apartment building collapsed in Gaza from damage sustained in earlier Israeli strikes. The six-storey building, located in the al al-Hawa area of Gaza City, had four apartments on each floor. According to locals, some 10 families had been living in the building despite warnings that it was unsafe. Gaza’s Civil Defence teams initially struggled to carry out rescue operations because Israeli restrictions severely limited the entry of heavy equipment into the enclave. Rescuers were forced to search through the rubble largely by hand. The situation has improved somewhat, with the teams now able to use heavy machinery borrowed from UN agencies and Egyptian aid workers. “We are still hearing voices from under the rubble, so there is still hope to find people,” said Raed al-Dahshan, director of Civil Defence in Gaza City. “The limited availability of shelter options forced residents to move into this building, believing it was safe. However, at one point it collapsed entirely, tragically crashing down on people as they slept,” he added. According to the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Gaza office, Alessandro Mrakic, about 70 to 100 people were believed to be trapped inside the rubble. “The situation, as you see, is tragic because we don't have the equipment and machinery that is needed. There are actually people digging with their bare hands,” he said. Mrakic said that about 400 other war-damaged buildings were at imminent risk of collapse across Gaza. “We need support, most importantly with machinery, equipment, among others. Our colleagues here don't have [engine] oil and spare parts to continue to work with all the equipment that is still in Gaza,” he added. Gaza’s deepening crisis According to the United Nations, an estimated 80 per cent of total structures in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged during the war. The conflict has also forced around 1.9 million people from their homes, representing nearly 90 per cent of Gaza’s population. The UN estimates that about 1.2 million displaced people are now sheltering in tents or other makeshift accommodation. Despite a ceasefire reached last October, the humanitarian crisis remains severe. The UN says continued Israeli air strikes and other attacks in densely populated areas have resulted in further deaths and damage, while forcing more residents to flee their homes.

At least 20 people, including five children, were killed after a damaged six-storey building collapsed in Gaza City. Dozens remain missing as rescuers search the rubble for survivors.

At least 20 killed after war-damaged apartment building collapses in Gaza; rescuers search for survivors

The European Union is considering a new level of ties with Canada, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing that Ottawa become the bloc’s first “associate member”. During her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday (Sep 16), Von der Leyen made the offer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she wanted to work towards “opening the door” for Canada.Carney, who received a standing ovation from European lawmakers, has been pushing for a “unique alliance” with the EU as relations between Canada and the United States come under increasing strain.<h2>Beyond trade, towards an alliance</h2>The proposed arrangement would build on the existing Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which removes tariffs on 99 per cent of goods exports between Canada and the EU. Von der Leyen said Brussels wanted to take the relationship further.“We will move from CETA to an Alliance for the Future to create a common prosperity and economic security space,” she said.The expanded cooperation could cover advanced manufacturing, technology, defence production, the Arctic, energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity and economic security.Von der Leyen also stressed that the initiative was based on shared political values.“Above all, dear Mark, Europe and Canada believe in democracy,” she said.<h2>Canada-EU ties deepen amid US tensions</h2>The proposal comes as Canada faces an intensifying trade dispute with the US. Trade talks between Ottawa and Washington collapsed last month, followed by new tariff measures. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the “51st state”, adding to tensions between the two neighbours.Von der Leyen avoided naming Trump directly while stressing that the proposed partnership was not aimed at another country.“This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength,” she said.Carney is due to address the European Parliament on Thursday (Sep 17).<h2>Security also on the agenda</h2>Von der Leyen separately proposed a European Security Council involving partners including Canada, Norway, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.“This is even more urgent now, given the nature and scale of the risks at play,” she said.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has proposed Canada become the bloc’s first ‘associate member’, seeking closer ties with Ottawa amid worsening Canada-US trade tensions and shared security concerns.

The European Union is considering a new level of ties with Canada, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing that Ottawa become the bloc’s first “associate member”. During her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday (Sep 16), Von der Leyen made the offer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she wanted to work towards “opening the door” for Canada. Carney, who received a standing ovation from European lawmakers, has been pushing for a “unique alliance” with the EU as relations between Canada and the United States come under increasing strain. Beyond trade, towards an alliance The proposed arrangement would build on the existing Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which removes tariffs on 99 per cent of goods exports between Canada and the EU. Von der Leyen said Brussels wanted to take the relationship further. “We will move from CETA to an Alliance for the Future to create a common prosperity and economic security space,” she said. The expanded cooperation could cover advanced manufacturing, technology, defence production, the Arctic, energy, critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity and economic security. Von der Leyen also stressed that the initiative was based on shared political values. “Above all, dear Mark, Europe and Canada believe in democracy,” she said. Canada-EU ties deepen amid US tensions The proposal comes as Canada faces an intensifying trade dispute with the US. Trade talks between Ottawa and Washington collapsed last month, followed by new tariff measures. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the “51st state”, adding to tensions between the two neighbours. Von der Leyen avoided naming Trump directly while stressing that the proposed partnership was not aimed at another country. “This is a partnership not against anyone else, but for our common strength,” she said. Carney is due to address the European Parliament on Thursday (Sep 17). Security also on the agenda Von der Leyen separately proposed a European Security Council involving partners including Canada, Norway, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. “This is even more urgent now, given the nature and scale of the risks at play,” she said.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has proposed Canada become the bloc’s first ‘associate member’, seeking closer ties with Ottawa amid worsening Canada-US trade tensions and shared security concerns.

Canada to become EU’s first ‘associate member’? Von der Leyen proposes move amid US tensions

The global economic landscape continues to be dominated by the United States and China, with the two countries maintaining a substantial lead over other major economies in terms of nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Based on International Monetary Fund (IMF) projections for 2026, the United States is expected to remain the world's largest economy, with a nominal GDP of approximately $32.38 trillion. China ranks second with an estimated GDP of $20.85 trillion, followed by Germany, Japan and the United Kingdom.<h3>United States leads global economy</h3>The United States tops the ranking with a projected nominal GDP of $32.38 trillion. Its economy remains significantly larger than that of China, the world's second-largest economy. China's projected GDP stands at around $20.85 trillion, while Germany is expected to rank third with approximately $5.45 trillion.<h3>Japan and UK complete top five</h3>Japan is projected to have a nominal GDP of around $4.38 trillion, placing it fourth globally. The United Kingdom follows closely in fifth place, with an estimated GDP of $4.26 trillion. The figures highlight the continued economic weight of the world's major developed economies, even as emerging markets expand their share of global output.<h3>India among world's biggest economies</h3>India is projected to have a nominal GDP of approximately $4.15 trillion in 2026, placing it sixth among the world's largest economies.India has been among the fastest-growing major economies in recent years, with strong domestic demand and investment contributing to its economic expansion. France ranks seventh with an estimated GDP of $3.21 trillion, followed by Italy at approximately $2.42 trillion. Canada is placed ninth, with a projected GDP of around $2.23 trillion.<h3>Russia and Brazil</h3>Russia and Brazil round out the group of major economies, although their precise positions can vary depending on the source, exchange-rate movements and the timing of economic estimates. Nominal GDP measures the value of goods and services produced by an economy at current prices and exchange rates. Unlike purchasing power parity (PPP), it does not adjust for differences in the cost of living between countries. The rankings can therefore shift as currencies fluctuate and economic forecasts are revised. Nevertheless, the 2026 projections underscore the continued dominance of the US and China while highlighting India's growing position among the world's largest economies.

The US is projected to remain the world's largest economy in 2026 with a nominal GDP of $32.38 trillion, followed by China at $20.85 trillion. Germany, Japan and the UK complete the top five, while India ranks sixth with an estimated GDP of $4.15 trillion.

The global economic landscape continues to be dominated by the United States and China, with the two countries maintaining a substantial lead over other major economies in terms of nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Based on International Monetary Fund (IMF) projections for 2026, the United States is expected to remain the world's largest economy, with a nominal GDP of approximately $32.38 trillion. China ranks second with an estimated GDP of $20.85 trillion, followed by Germany, Japan and the United Kingdom. United States leads global economy The United States tops the ranking with a projected nominal GDP of $32.38 trillion. Its economy remains significantly larger than that of China, the world's second-largest economy. China's projected GDP stands at around $20.85 trillion, while Germany is expected to rank third with approximately $5.45 trillion. Japan and UK complete top five Japan is projected to have a nominal GDP of around $4.38 trillion, placing it fourth globally. The United Kingdom follows closely in fifth place, with an estimated GDP of $4.26 trillion. The figures highlight the continued economic weight of the world's major developed economies, even as emerging markets expand their share of global output. India among world's biggest economies India is projected to have a nominal GDP of approximately $4.15 trillion in 2026, placing it sixth among the world's largest economies. India has been among the fastest-growing major economies in recent years, with strong domestic demand and investment contributing to its economic expansion. France ranks seventh with an estimated GDP of $3.21 trillion, followed by Italy at approximately $2.42 trillion. Canada is placed ninth, with a projected GDP of around $2.23 trillion. Russia and Brazil Russia and Brazil round out the group of major economies, although their precise positions can vary depending on the source, exchange-rate movements and the timing of economic estimates. Nominal GDP measures the value of goods and services produced by an economy at current prices and exchange rates. Unlike purchasing power parity (PPP), it does not adjust for differences in the cost of living between countries. The rankings can therefore shift as currencies fluctuate and economic forecasts are revised. Nevertheless, the 2026 projections underscore the continued dominance of the US and China while highlighting India's growing position among the world's largest economies.

The US is projected to remain the world's largest economy in 2026 with a nominal GDP of $32.38 trillion, followed by China at $20.85 trillion. Germany, Japan and the UK complete the top five, while India ranks sixth with an estimated GDP of $4.15 trillion.

US, China dominate global economy: Where does India rank among the world's biggest economies?

The Indian government has designated the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).&nbsp;The Union Home Affairs Ministry, in a gazette notification issued on Wednesday, invoked Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA to add the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) to the First Schedule of the law. The schedule lists organisations designated as terrorist outfits.&nbsp;The notification referred to several criminal cases involving alleged members of the SBN. These cases have been registered under laws including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.

The Centre has declared the Shahzad Bhatti Network a terrorist organisation under the UAPA and added it to the Act’s First Schedule.

The Indian government has designated the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The Union Home Affairs Ministry, in a gazette notification issued on Wednesday, invoked Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA to add the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) to the First Schedule of the law. The schedule lists organisations designated as terrorist outfits. The notification referred to several criminal cases involving alleged members of the SBN. These cases have been registered under laws including the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.

The Centre has declared the Shahzad Bhatti Network a terrorist organisation under the UAPA and added it to the Act’s First Schedule.

Shahzad Bhatti Network declared terrorist organisation under UAPA: Govt order

US Attorney General Todd Blanche has said the Donald Trump administration will comply with the Supreme Court's decision blocking new US Postal Service rules for mail-in ballots ahead of the November midterm elections. "Of course, we're going to comply with the Supreme Court's decision, as we always do," Blanche said during a White House briefing on Tuesday (Sep 15), in response to a question from CBS News.The Supreme Court on Monday rejected the administration's request to allow the new USPS rules to take effect while legal challenges against them continue. In its unsigned order, the court said the government was "unlikely to succeed on the merits" of its challenge to a lower court's decision blocking the rules.<h2>What were the mail ballot rules?</h2>The rules, finalised by the Postal Service last month, would have introduced new requirements for mail-in ballots. Under the policy, ballot envelopes would have needed to meet specific design requirements, including a unique barcode that could be scanned by USPS equipment. State and local election officials would also have been required to submit certain information about voters receiving mail ballots to a government-operated portal.Several states have already begun sending mail ballots ahead of the November elections. Election officials had argued that implementing the new requirements at this stage would be difficult and could disrupt the voting process.<h2>Blanche defends administration's election efforts</h2>Blanche said the Supreme Court ruling would not stop the administration from continuing its broader efforts related to election security. "That doesn't mean that we're not going to do everything in this administration that we can to make sure that there are free and fair elections," he said. He also said the administration disagreed with the court's decision. "We do think that this decision is not the right decision. That is okay. That's the way democracy works," Blanche said.The ruling was supported by a majority of the justices, while conservative Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented. Justice Brett Kavanaugh joined the majority, although he separately indicated that he believed the Postal Service could have statutory authority for some aspects of the rule. He said implementing it for the 2026 elections was not legally permissible because election officials did not have enough time to reasonably put the requirements in place.<h2>Trump criticises Supreme Court</h2>The ruling also prompted a sharp response from Trump, who criticised the Supreme Court in a Truth Social post. Trump described the decision as "another bad decision" against his administration and accused the court of causing serious damage to the country through recent rulings. Blanche acknowledged that Trump was frustrated with the court and defended the president's right to express his views."He is very frustrated," Blanche said, adding that Trump "has every right and indeed, he should communicate his concerns with the Supreme Court whenever he has them."

US Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed compliance with the Supreme Court's ruling blocking new Postal Service mail-in ballot rules, while defending election security efforts and President Trump's public frustration. 

US Attorney General Todd Blanche has said the Donald Trump administration will comply with the Supreme Court's decision blocking new US Postal Service rules for mail-in ballots ahead of the November midterm elections. "Of course, we're going to comply with the Supreme Court's decision, as we always do," Blanche said during a White House briefing on Tuesday (Sep 15), in response to a question from CBS News. The Supreme Court on Monday rejected the administration's request to allow the new USPS rules to take effect while legal challenges against them continue. In its unsigned order, the court said the government was "unlikely to succeed on the merits" of its challenge to a lower court's decision blocking the rules. What were the mail ballot rules? The rules, finalised by the Postal Service last month, would have introduced new requirements for mail-in ballots. Under the policy, ballot envelopes would have needed to meet specific design requirements, including a unique barcode that could be scanned by USPS equipment. State and local election officials would also have been required to submit certain information about voters receiving mail ballots to a government-operated portal. Several states have already begun sending mail ballots ahead of the November elections. Election officials had argued that implementing the new requirements at this stage would be difficult and could disrupt the voting process. Blanche defends administration's election efforts Blanche said the Supreme Court ruling would not stop the administration from continuing its broader efforts related to election security. "That doesn't mean that we're not going to do everything in this administration that we can to make sure that there are free and fair elections," he said. He also said the administration disagreed with the court's decision. "We do think that this decision is not the right decision. That is okay. That's the way democracy works," Blanche said. The ruling was supported by a majority of the justices, while conservative Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented. Justice Brett Kavanaugh joined the majority, although he separately indicated that he believed the Postal Service could have statutory authority for some aspects of the rule. He said implementing it for the 2026 elections was not legally permissible because election officials did not have enough time to reasonably put the requirements in place. Trump criticises Supreme Court The ruling also prompted a sharp response from Trump, who criticised the Supreme Court in a Truth Social post. Trump described the decision as "another bad decision" against his administration and accused the court of causing serious damage to the country through recent rulings. Blanche acknowledged that Trump was frustrated with the court and defended the president's right to express his views. "He is very frustrated," Blanche said, adding that Trump "has every right and indeed, he should communicate his concerns with the Supreme Court whenever he has them."

US Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed compliance with the Supreme Court's ruling blocking new Postal Service mail-in ballot rules, while defending election security efforts and President Trump's public frustration.&nbsp;

Trump admin will comply with Supreme Court mail ballot ruling despite Trump’s criticism, Blanche says. Everything explained

A Pakistan Navy ship involved in a collision with an Indian warship in international waters has returned to harbour after sustaining "severe damage", according to sources familiar with the incident.&nbsp;The incident took place on the evening of 15 September in the North Arabian Sea, where a Pakistani naval vessel approached a frontline Indian Navy warship at high speed while the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission. Indian side has described the Pakistani ship's manoeuvring as “unprofessional and unsafe manner,” resulting in a collision.&nbsp;India has summoned Pakistan’s chargé d’affaires in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest. The Ministry of External Affairs said the Pakistani ship’s conduct was “unacceptable and unprofessional” and in “direct contravention” of a 1991 bilateral agreement.&nbsp;Article 10 of that pact, the Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements, states: “The Naval ships and submarines belonging to the other country are not to come closer than three Nautical Miles (NMs) from each other so as to avoid any accident while operating in international waters.”&nbsp;Indian sources said New Delhi’s warship suffered no major damage, no injuries and no loss of operational capability, and continued its mission. They added that the Indian Navy captain showed restraint. “Even under extreme provocation, the Indian Navy captain exercised extreme restraint by taking actions to prevent a severe accident from taking place which could have caused serious loss of life and damage,” sources said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-name-cannot-return-to-kennedy-center-us-judge-rules-1789493053928">Trump's name cannot return to Kennedy Center, US judge rules</a>&nbsp;Pakistan has not issued an official statement on the collision or the condition of its vessel. India instructed its envoy in Islamabad to deliver a matching protest. The chargé d’affaires in New Delhi was told to convey that military units on both sides must exercise due care and respect existing agreements to prevent a repeat.&nbsp;The incident is the first publicly acknowledged close-quarters naval encounter between the two countries since a brief but intense conflict last year. The 1991 agreement was designed as a confidence-building measure to reduce the risk of accidental clashes at sea between the nuclear-armed neighbours, whose navies routinely operate in the Arabian Sea.&nbsp;Officials in New Delhi described the collision as a breach of established safety distances rather than a deliberate attack, but warned against any recurrence. &nbsp;The latest episode has revived memories of earlier near-misses, including a 2011 standoff involving Indian and Pakistani frigates.

A Pakistani Navy ship returned to harbour with severe damage after colliding with an Indian warship in the North Arabian Sea, prompting a strong protest from New Delhi.

A Pakistan Navy ship involved in a collision with an Indian warship in international waters has returned to harbour after sustaining "severe damage", according to sources familiar with the incident. The incident took place on the evening of 15 September in the North Arabian Sea, where a Pakistani naval vessel approached a frontline Indian Navy warship at high speed while the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission. Indian side has described the Pakistani ship's manoeuvring as “unprofessional and unsafe manner,” resulting in a collision. India has summoned Pakistan’s chargé d’affaires in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest. The Ministry of External Affairs said the Pakistani ship’s conduct was “unacceptable and unprofessional” and in “direct contravention” of a 1991 bilateral agreement. Article 10 of that pact, the Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements, states: “The Naval ships and submarines belonging to the other country are not to come closer than three Nautical Miles (NMs) from each other so as to avoid any accident while operating in international waters.” Indian sources said New Delhi’s warship suffered no major damage, no injuries and no loss of operational capability, and continued its mission. They added that the Indian Navy captain showed restraint. “Even under extreme provocation, the Indian Navy captain exercised extreme restraint by taking actions to prevent a severe accident from taking place which could have caused serious loss of life and damage,” sources said. Also Read: Trump's name cannot return to Kennedy Center, US judge rules Pakistan has not issued an official statement on the collision or the condition of its vessel. India instructed its envoy in Islamabad to deliver a matching protest. The chargé d’affaires in New Delhi was told to convey that military units on both sides must exercise due care and respect existing agreements to prevent a repeat. The incident is the first publicly acknowledged close-quarters naval encounter between the two countries since a brief but intense conflict last year. The 1991 agreement was designed as a confidence-building measure to reduce the risk of accidental clashes at sea between the nuclear-armed neighbours, whose navies routinely operate in the Arabian Sea. Officials in New Delhi described the collision as a breach of established safety distances rather than a deliberate attack, but warned against any recurrence. The latest episode has revived memories of earlier near-misses, including a 2011 standoff involving Indian and Pakistani frigates.

A Pakistani Navy ship returned to harbour with severe damage after colliding with an Indian warship in the North Arabian Sea, prompting a strong protest from New Delhi.

Pakistan naval vessel returns to harbour with 'severe damage' after collision with Indian warship in Arabian Sea

The United Nations General Assembly is set to bring world leaders together once again as the 81st session intensifies at the UN headquarters in New York. The high-level meetings segment, scheduled for September 22-26, 2026, will see heads of state and government, ministers and senior officials from around the world discuss pressing international challenges.The annual gathering comes as countries seek to strengthen global cooperation, advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote collective action on peace, dignity, equality and environmental sustainability.<h2>UN General Assembly 2026: What to expect</h2>The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, also known as UNGA81, will feature a series of discussions and events focused on international cooperation and practical solutions to global challenges.Two platforms will place a particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals and efforts to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda.The SDG Media Zone, produced by the UN Department of Global Communications, will run from September 21 to 25. The platform will feature interviews, panel discussions and conversations highlighting solutions to challenges linked to sustainable development.Another key platform, the Goals Lounge, will operate from September 14 to 25. Convened by the UN Deputy Secretary-General and hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, it will feature informal dialogues, in-depth discussions on critical issues and interactive experiences.Events from both platforms will be available to audiences worldwide through live streams on UN WebTV.<h2>High-level meetings to begin on September 22</h2>The high-level segment of UNGA81 will begin on September 22 and continue through September 26. The meetings are expected to draw senior representatives from UN member states for discussions on issues affecting international peace, development and global governance.The General Assembly remains the UN's principal deliberative, policymaking and representative body. Its annual session provides a platform for all member states to present their positions, debate international issues and work towards collective decisions.<h2>How many countries are members of the United Nations?</h2>The United Nations currently has 193 member states. These countries make up the organisation's membership and participate in the General Assembly, where each member state has one vote.The UN also recognises two non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine. While they do not have the same voting rights as member states, they can participate in the work of the General Assembly under observer status.The full list of the 193 UN member states is arranged alphabetically below.<h2>Full list of 193 United Nations member countries</h2><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Afghanistan</td></tr><tr><td>Albania</td></tr><tr><td>Algeria</td></tr><tr><td>Andorra</td></tr><tr><td>Angola</td></tr><tr><td>Antigua and Barbuda</td></tr><tr><td>Argentina</td></tr><tr><td>Armenia</td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td></tr><tr><td>Austria</td></tr><tr><td>Azerbaijan</td></tr><tr><td>Bahamas</td></tr><tr><td>Bahrain</td></tr><tr><td>Bangladesh</td></tr><tr><td>Barbados</td></tr><tr><td>Belarus</td></tr><tr><td>Belgium</td></tr><tr><td>Belize</td></tr><tr><td>Benin</td></tr><tr><td>Bhutan</td></tr><tr><td>Bolivia</td></tr><tr><td>Bosnia and Herzegovina</td></tr><tr><td>Botswana</td></tr><tr><td>Brazil</td></tr><tr><td>Brunei Darussalam</td></tr><tr><td>Bulgaria</td></tr><tr><td>Burkina Faso</td></tr><tr><td>Burundi</td></tr><tr><td>Cabo Verde</td></tr><tr><td>Cambodia</td></tr><tr><td>Cameroon</td></tr><tr><td>Canada</td></tr><tr><td>Central African Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Chad</td></tr><tr><td>Chile</td></tr><tr><td>China</td></tr><tr><td>Colombia</td></tr><tr><td>Comoros</td></tr><tr><td>Congo</td></tr><tr><td>Costa Rica</td></tr><tr><td>Côte d'Ivoire</td></tr><tr><td>Croatia</td></tr><tr><td>Cuba</td></tr><tr><td>Cyprus</td></tr><tr><td>Czechia</td></tr><tr><td>Democratic People's Republic of Korea</td></tr><tr><td>Democratic Republic of the Congo</td></tr><tr><td>Denmark</td></tr><tr><td>Djibouti</td></tr><tr><td>Dominica</td></tr><tr><td>Dominican Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Ecuador</td></tr><tr><td>Egypt</td></tr><tr><td>El Salvador</td></tr><tr><td>Equatorial Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Eritrea</td></tr><tr><td>Estonia</td></tr><tr><td>Eswatini</td></tr><tr><td>Ethiopia</td></tr><tr><td>Fiji</td></tr><tr><td>Finland</td></tr><tr><td>France</td></tr><tr><td>Gabon</td></tr><tr><td>Gambia</td></tr><tr><td>Georgia</td></tr><tr><td>Germany</td></tr><tr><td>Ghana</td></tr><tr><td>Greece</td></tr><tr><td>Grenada</td></tr><tr><td>Guatemala</td></tr><tr><td>Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Guinea-Bissau</td></tr><tr><td>Guyana</td></tr><tr><td>Haiti</td></tr><tr><td>Honduras</td></tr><tr><td>Hungary</td></tr><tr><td>Iceland</td></tr><tr><td>India</td></tr><tr><td>Indonesia</td></tr><tr><td>Iran</td></tr><tr><td>Iraq</td></tr><tr><td>Ireland</td></tr><tr><td>Israel</td></tr><tr><td>Italy</td></tr><tr><td>Jamaica</td></tr><tr><td>Japan</td></tr><tr><td>Jordan</td></tr><tr><td>Kazakhstan</td></tr><tr><td>Kenya</td></tr><tr><td>Kiribati</td></tr><tr><td>Kuwait</td></tr><tr><td>Kyrgyzstan</td></tr><tr><td>Lao People's Democratic Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Latvia</td></tr><tr><td>Lebanon</td></tr><tr><td>Lesotho</td></tr><tr><td>Liberia</td></tr><tr><td>Libya</td></tr><tr><td>Liechtenstein</td></tr><tr><td>Lithuania</td></tr><tr><td>Luxembourg</td></tr><tr><td>Madagascar</td></tr><tr><td>Malawi</td></tr><tr><td>Malaysia</td></tr><tr><td>Maldives</td></tr><tr><td>Mali</td></tr><tr><td>Malta</td></tr><tr><td>Marshall Islands</td></tr><tr><td>Mauritania</td></tr><tr><td>Mauritius</td></tr><tr><td>Mexico</td></tr><tr><td>Micronesia (Federated States of)</td></tr><tr><td>Monaco</td></tr><tr><td>Mongolia</td></tr><tr><td>Montenegro</td></tr><tr><td>Morocco</td></tr><tr><td>Mozambique</td></tr><tr><td>Myanmar</td></tr><tr><td>Namibia</td></tr><tr><td>Nauru</td></tr><tr><td>Nepal</td></tr><tr><td>Netherlands</td></tr><tr><td>New Zealand</td></tr><tr><td>Nicaragua</td></tr><tr><td>Niger</td></tr><tr><td>Nigeria</td></tr><tr><td>North Macedonia</td></tr><tr><td>Norway</td></tr><tr><td>Oman</td></tr><tr><td>Pakistan</td></tr><tr><td>Palau</td></tr><tr><td>Panama</td></tr><tr><td>Papua New Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Paraguay</td></tr><tr><td>Peru</td></tr><tr><td>Philippines</td></tr><tr><td>Poland</td></tr><tr><td>Portugal</td></tr><tr><td>Qatar</td></tr><tr><td>Republic of Korea</td></tr><tr><td>Republic of Moldova</td></tr><tr><td>Romania</td></tr><tr><td>Russian Federation</td></tr><tr><td>Rwanda</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Kitts and Nevis</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Lucia</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Vincent and the Grenadines</td></tr><tr><td>Samoa</td></tr><tr><td>San Marino</td></tr><tr><td>Sao Tome and Principe</td></tr><tr><td>Saudi Arabia</td></tr><tr><td>Senegal</td></tr><tr><td>Serbia</td></tr><tr><td>Seychelles</td></tr><tr><td>Sierra Leone</td></tr><tr><td>Singapore</td></tr><tr><td>Slovakia</td></tr><tr><td>Slovenia</td></tr><tr><td>Solomon Islands</td></tr><tr><td>Somalia</td></tr><tr><td>South Africa</td></tr><tr><td>South Sudan</td></tr><tr><td>Spain</td></tr><tr><td>Sri Lanka</td></tr><tr><td>Sudan</td></tr><tr><td>Suriname</td></tr><tr><td>Sweden</td></tr><tr><td>Switzerland</td></tr><tr><td>Syrian Arab Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Tajikistan</td></tr><tr><td>Thailand</td></tr><tr><td>Timor-Leste</td></tr><tr><td>Togo</td></tr><tr><td>Tonga</td></tr><tr><td>Trinidad and Tobago</td></tr><tr><td>Tunisia</td></tr><tr><td>Türkiye</td></tr><tr><td>Turkmenistan</td></tr><tr><td>Tuvalu</td></tr><tr><td>Uganda</td></tr><tr><td>Ukraine</td></tr><tr><td>United Arab Emirates</td></tr><tr><td>United Kingdom</td></tr><tr><td>United Republic of Tanzania</td></tr><tr><td>United States of America</td></tr><tr><td>Uruguay</td></tr><tr><td>Uzbekistan</td></tr><tr><td>Vanuatu</td></tr><tr><td>Venezuela</td></tr><tr><td>Viet Nam</td></tr><tr><td>Yemen</td></tr><tr><td>Zambia</td></tr><tr><td>Zimbabwe</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

As world leaders prepare to gather in New York for UNGA81, the United Nations is set for another major diplomatic week. But how many countries actually make up the UN and which ones are on the full list?

The United Nations General Assembly is set to bring world leaders together once again as the 81st session intensifies at the UN headquarters in New York. The high-level meetings segment, scheduled for September 22-26, 2026, will see heads of state and government, ministers and senior officials from around the world discuss pressing international challenges. The annual gathering comes as countries seek to strengthen global cooperation, advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote collective action on peace, dignity, equality and environmental sustainability. UN General Assembly 2026: What to expect The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, also known as UNGA81, will feature a series of discussions and events focused on international cooperation and practical solutions to global challenges. Two platforms will place a particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals and efforts to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda. The SDG Media Zone, produced by the UN Department of Global Communications, will run from September 21 to 25. The platform will feature interviews, panel discussions and conversations highlighting solutions to challenges linked to sustainable development. Another key platform, the Goals Lounge, will operate from September 14 to 25. Convened by the UN Deputy Secretary-General and hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, it will feature informal dialogues, in-depth discussions on critical issues and interactive experiences. Events from both platforms will be available to audiences worldwide through live streams on UN WebTV. High-level meetings to begin on September 22 The high-level segment of UNGA81 will begin on September 22 and continue through September 26. The meetings are expected to draw senior representatives from UN member states for discussions on issues affecting international peace, development and global governance. The General Assembly remains the UN's principal deliberative, policymaking and representative body. Its annual session provides a platform for all member states to present their positions, debate international issues and work towards collective decisions. How many countries are members of the United Nations? The United Nations currently has 193 member states. These countries make up the organisation's membership and participate in the General Assembly, where each member state has one vote. The UN also recognises two non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine. While they do not have the same voting rights as member states, they can participate in the work of the General Assembly under observer status. The full list of the 193 UN member states is arranged alphabetically below. Full list of 193 United Nations member countries Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia Democratic People's Republic of Korea Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia (Federated States of) Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Macedonia Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Republic of Korea Republic of Moldova Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tajikistan Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Türkiye Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United Republic of Tanzania United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

As world leaders prepare to gather in New York for UNGA81, the United Nations is set for another major diplomatic week. But how many countries actually make up the UN and which ones are on the full list?

UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect

Some 72 hours after one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the BRICS summit’s focus on people and mobility offers a useful way to examine what makes international cooperation work in practice. The BRICS New Delhi Declaration places people-to-people cooperation among the bloc’s three central pillars, alongside political and security cooperation and economic and financial cooperation. One of the key focus areas was people and mobility. The message was clear: connectivity is not only about roads, ports, railways and digital networks. It is also about whether students, tourists, business travellers, researchers and families can move across borders with greater clarity and confidence.In 2023, nearly 8 million Indians travelled to BRICS countries, while around 414,000 visitors from BRICS nations came to India. Those figures point to a significant imbalance, but they also underline the scale of the opportunity. As trade, education, tourism and investment expand across the bloc, the movement of people will become an increasingly important part of the BRICS story.Against this backdrop, one of the most closely watched developments was the gradual resumption of direct air services between India and China after a six-year interruption. China Southern Airlines has re-started regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, marking the return of the carrier’s India service. Direct services have also returned or begun on routes linking Indian and Chinese cities, including New Delhi and Shanghai, Kolkata and Kunming, and Kolkata and Shanghai.&nbsp;Air routes are a visible sign of a diplomatic thaw. But they are also economic infrastructure. For BRICS, the larger question is whether this momentum can be extended across the bloc through better air connectivity, interoperable digital systems and more predictable visa arrangements.<h2>From transport link to trusted systems</h2>One of the prominent collaborators of BRICS governments in the mobility ecosystem is VFS Global. VFS has partnered with some of the most critical BRICS nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.&nbsp;The company was set up in 2001 on a single premise: a government could outsource the queue without outsourcing the decision. Twenty-five years on, that premise underpins a large share of the world's travel. VFS Global currently serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,200 application centres across 169 countries.&nbsp;<h2>The trustworthy systems that run mobility</h2>Supporting all of it is an operational network of appointment scheduling, online payment collection, contact-center interactions, translation services, courier logistics, document digitization and data management. More than 240 million biometric enrolments have been completed since 2007. The company is investing in digital platforms, artificial intelligence and data-led technologies to support governments in areas such as predictive analytics, secure identity management and fraud detection.VFS Global handles the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the process. Appointment availability, documentation requirements, processing timelines and the final visa decision remain entirely with the government concerned. The administrative work is completed in advance so that the visa officer spends more time on assessment and less on paperwork.That separation is what makes the model portable across very different political systems. A government that wants tighter scrutiny can have it. <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260916/image-1789553266303.JPG?rect=(0,378,5964,4473)" alt="Image Element"><h2>More partnerships in the offing</h2>Much of the world's visa, passport and identity paperwork is still processed in-house. Reliable estimates of how much are difficult to pin down, in part because definitions of the market vary widely. VFS Global's view is that considerable potential remains for governments to outsource a greater share of administrative visa, passport, identity and citizen services to specialist providers.“We are focusing on mobility and making sure trade improves because when we increase mobility and people travel, trade automatically improves,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global.That is the connection BRICS leaders spent two days describing in other languages. Trade corridors are also travel corridors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The BRICS grouping's focus on people and mobility highlights how air connectivity, visa systems and trusted infrastructure can support tourism, trade, investment and stronger cross-border cooperation.

Some 72 hours after one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the BRICS summit’s focus on people and mobility offers a useful way to examine what makes international cooperation work in practice. The BRICS New Delhi Declaration places people-to-people cooperation among the bloc’s three central pillars, alongside political and security cooperation and economic and financial cooperation. One of the key focus areas was people and mobility. The message was clear: connectivity is not only about roads, ports, railways and digital networks. It is also about whether students, tourists, business travellers, researchers and families can move across borders with greater clarity and confidence. In 2023, nearly 8 million Indians travelled to BRICS countries, while around 414,000 visitors from BRICS nations came to India. Those figures point to a significant imbalance, but they also underline the scale of the opportunity. As trade, education, tourism and investment expand across the bloc, the movement of people will become an increasingly important part of the BRICS story. Against this backdrop, one of the most closely watched developments was the gradual resumption of direct air services between India and China after a six-year interruption. China Southern Airlines has re-started regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, marking the return of the carrier’s India service. Direct services have also returned or begun on routes linking Indian and Chinese cities, including New Delhi and Shanghai, Kolkata and Kunming, and Kolkata and Shanghai. Air routes are a visible sign of a diplomatic thaw. But they are also economic infrastructure. For BRICS, the larger question is whether this momentum can be extended across the bloc through better air connectivity, interoperable digital systems and more predictable visa arrangements. From transport link to trusted systems One of the prominent collaborators of BRICS governments in the mobility ecosystem is VFS Global. VFS has partnered with some of the most critical BRICS nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia. The company was set up in 2001 on a single premise: a government could outsource the queue without outsourcing the decision. Twenty-five years on, that premise underpins a large share of the world's travel. VFS Global currently serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,200 application centres across 169 countries. The trustworthy systems that run mobility Supporting all of it is an operational network of appointment scheduling, online payment collection, contact-center interactions, translation services, courier logistics, document digitization and data management. More than 240 million biometric enrolments have been completed since 2007. The company is investing in digital platforms, artificial intelligence and data-led technologies to support governments in areas such as predictive analytics, secure identity management and fraud detection. VFS Global handles the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the process. Appointment availability, documentation requirements, processing timelines and the final visa decision remain entirely with the government concerned. The administrative work is completed in advance so that the visa officer spends more time on assessment and less on paperwork. That separation is what makes the model portable across very different political systems. A government that wants tighter scrutiny can have it. More partnerships in the offing Much of the world's visa, passport and identity paperwork is still processed in-house. Reliable estimates of how much are difficult to pin down, in part because definitions of the market vary widely. VFS Global's view is that considerable potential remains for governments to outsource a greater share of administrative visa, passport, identity and citizen services to specialist providers. “We are focusing on mobility and making sure trade improves because when we increase mobility and people travel, trade automatically improves,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global. That is the connection BRICS leaders spent two days describing in other languages. Trade corridors are also travel corridors.

The BRICS grouping's focus on people and mobility highlights how air connectivity, visa systems and trusted infrastructure can support tourism, trade, investment and stronger cross-border cooperation.

People’s connectivity core of BRICS agenda at New Delhi

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. Saudi Arabia has accused the Houthis of attempting to target Mecca with a drone, saying its air defences intercepted the UAV before it entered restricted airspace near Islam’s holiest city. The Houthis have denied targeting Mecca.In the United States, the House has advanced a Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries importing Russian oil, potentially affecting major buyers such as India and China. Meanwhile, AI leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, have spoken publicly about growing concerns over artificial intelligence safety, regulation and the pace of development.In California, NBC’s Colleen Williams confirmed that NewsChopper 4 was the helicopter that crashed in Los Angeles, killing three people. The incident occurred near the Chatsworth crash site where an SUV previously ploughed into a Metro bus, killing at least two people.In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has issued a nationwide public health alert over two unauthorised Pakistan-made skin-whitening products, Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream. Meanwhile, discussions continue over merchant discount rates and fees for large merchant payments on UPI, while transactions up to ₹2,000 remain free.In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s high-profile official visit to the United Kingdom has sparked political debate back home, with attention focused on the visit and its wider political implications

he European Union plans to ban social media use for children under 13 and allow limited, supervised access for those aged 13 to 15, under new plans announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Sept 16)."It is time for Europe to act," von der Leyen said during her annual address to the European Parliament. She also warned that the EU must make its own rules rather than allow big technology companies to decide them.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-social-media-under-13-supervised-access-till-15-eu-unveils-new-online-safety-rules-for-children-1789568917026">Read More…</a>&nbsp;

A woman trying to stop a car was dragged on its bonnet by her alleged ‘boyfriend’ after an argument and then run over near the Janeshwar Mishra Park in Lucknow’s upscale locality of Gomtinagar Extension on Wednesday morning.The accused, identified as Shahnawaz, has been arrested and the car seized, said police.The woman, identified as Anamika, had confronted Shahnawaz after allegedly seeing him with another woman and learning that he had concealed his true identity from her.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-man-drags-girlfriend-on-car-s-bonnet-in-lucknow-after-fight-runs-her-over-arrested-1789567470691">Read More…</a>

Video: Man drags girlfriend on car’s bonnet in Lucknow after fight, runs her over; arrested

India on Wednesday rejected the so-called Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission in strong words, saying it has no legal basis, and reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. India said there is no boundary between Pakistan and China, and hence such a joint commission has no legal basis. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India’s position on the matter remains “clear and consistent” and described the commission as having no legal basis.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-s-no-pak-china-boundary-india-rejects-so-called-boundary-joint-commission-tells-islamabad-to-stop-theatrics-1789573593070">Read More…</a>

‘There’s no Pak-China boundary’: India rejects ‘so-called’ boundary joint commission, tells Islamabad to stop ‘theatrics’

The European Union plans to ban social media use for children under 13 and allow limited, supervised access for those aged 13 to 15, under new plans announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Sept 16).<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-social-media-under-13-supervised-access-till-15-eu-unveils-new-online-safety-rules-for-children-1789568917026">Read more.</a>

Sweden’s foreign ministry on Wednesday (Sep 16) said that it had expelled an Iranian embassy employee and summoned the country’s ambassador, saying that their activity was incompatible with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The move was taken as Stockholm accused Tehran of making threats against Jewish and Israeli interests in Sweden.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-expels-iranian-embassy-official-what-triggered-the-diplomatic-shock-1789571097350">Read more.</a>

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday condemned the targeting of Mecca as a "cowardly terrorist attack" after Yemen's Houthis denied launching a drone at the holy city.The Gulf kingdom "reaffirms its legitimate right to take all necessary measures to defend the security of the two holy mosques, the pilgrims, and the entire Saudi territory, its citizens, and its residents," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia condemns 'cowardly terrorist attack' by Houthis on Mecca

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday that Russia has repeatedly said that is not going to attack Western countries and warned that any European military aggression against Russia would trigger a war that will be “completely different” and “very short”.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-will-be-completely-different-and-very-short-if-europe-attacks-russia-warns-lavrov-1789561780082">Read more.</a>

Taiwan’s representative in India has said direct air links with New Delhi will resume on 1 December and that two semiconductor projects involving Taiwanese firms should begin operating within one to two years, as Taipei looks to expand trade and people-to-people contact.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-seeks-deeper-india-ties-as-direct-flights-restart-soon-and-chip-projects-advance-1789563035791">Read more.</a>

Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia "attacked Moldova" with a drone because his presidential jet was there at the time, part of what he said was a strategy of intimidation by Moscow. Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store had previously said Zelensky's plane was "almost hit by a drone" when taking off from Moldova. That claim was downplayed Kyiv and Chisinau at the time, with a source telling AFP there was an alert in Moldova "when a Russian (drone) entered Moldovan and Romanian airspace".&nbsp;

Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia "attacked Moldova" because his jet was there

At least 20 people, including five children, were killed and dozens of others were missing after an apartment building collapsed in Gaza from damage sustained in earlier Israeli strikes. The six-storey building, located in the al al-Hawa area of Gaza City, had four apartments on each floor. According to locals, some 10 families had been living in the building despite warnings that it was unsafe.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-killed-in-gaza-apartment-building-collapse-rescuers-search-for-survivors-still-hearing-voices-1789559875758">Read here</a>

The Pakistani Navy vessel that collided with an Indian Navy warship in the North Arabian Sea has been identified as PNS Hunain, a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV). Indian officials said the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission when Hunain approached at high speed and carried out what they described as “unprofessional and unsafe” manoeuvres. India subsequently summoned Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires on Wednesday and lodged a “strong protest”.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pns-hunain-all-you-need-to-know-about-pakistani-vessel-that-hit-indian-navy-warship-1789560515200">Read the full story here</a>

The European Union is considering a new level of ties with Canada, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing that Ottawa become the bloc’s first “associate member”. During her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday (Sep 16), Von der Leyen made the offer to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she wanted to work towards “opening the door” for Canada.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-to-become-eu-s-first-associate-member-von-der-leyen-proposes-move-amid-us-tensions-1789556454399">Read Here</a>

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday (September 16) approved a proposal to raise the wage ceiling for mandatory coverage under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-raises-epfo-wage-ceiling-from-rs-15-000-to-rs-25-000-51-lakh-to-benefit-1789556615917">Read Here</a>

Govt raises EPFO wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000, 51 lakh to benefit

The Indian government has designated the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shahzad-bhatti-network-added-to-uapa-list-of-banned-terrorist-outfits-1789554947535">Read the full story here</a>

Shahzad Bhatti Network added to UAPA list of banned terrorist outfits

A Pakistan Navy ship involved in a collision with an Indian warship in international waters has returned to harbour after sustaining "severe damage", according to sources familiar with the incident.The incident took place on the evening of 15 September in the North Arabian Sea, where a Pakistani naval vessel approached a frontline Indian Navy warship at high speed while the Indian ship was on a routine surveillance mission. Indian side has described the Pakistani ship's manoeuvring as “unprofessional and unsafe manner,” resulting in a collision. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-naval-vessel-returns-to-harbour-with-severe-damage-after-collision-with-indian-warship-in-arabian-sea-1789553687929">To read the full story, click here</a>

The cost of US President Donald Trump's war on Iran has risen to an estimated $38.1 billion till August, according to a report released by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). According to the report, the war could cost America another $2 billion to $3 billion for each additional month of fighting.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-iran-war-has-cost-us-38-1-billion-cbo-estimates-missile-stocks-face-major-strain-1789546201220">Read here.&nbsp;</a>

Trump’s Iran war has cost US $38.1 billion, CBO estimates; missile stocks face major strain

President Joseph Aoun told AFP that Lebanon wants a new force, from Europe or elsewhere, to avoid a security "vacuum" in the south when UN peacekeepers leave at the end of the year.&nbsp;

Lebanon wants new force to fill 'vacuum' when UN peacekeepers leave: President

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to restrict children’s access to social media during her annual address to the European Parliament on Wednesday.Under the proposed rules, children under 13 would be barred from using social media, while those aged 13 to 15 would only be allowed limited, parent-supervised “mini accounts.” These accounts would include restricted features and time limits."No social media under the age of 13. No personal account under the age of 15," she said during her annual address to the European Parliament. “That means, from 13 until a child turns 15, only mini accounts set up and supervised by parents, with limited features and time restriction.”

EU Plans Social Media Ban for Children Under 13, Parental Supervision Until 15

Global equity markets moved higher on Wednesday as traders awaited an expected US Federal Reserve interest rate hike, which would be the central bank’s first increase since 2023. Sentiment improved after oil prices fell more than 1%, although crude remained above $100 a barrel amid tensions in the Middle East.Investors are closely watching the Fed’s policy statement and voting pattern for clues about whether the move will be a one-off increase or the beginning of a wider tightening cycle. Strong US job growth and persistent inflation have pushed markets to price in a more than 90% chance of a hike.Asian markets including Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Mumbai gained, while European markets opened higher. The Bank of Japan is also expected to raise rates on Friday, while the Bank of England is forecast to hold its benchmark rate.

Global stocks rise as traders await crucial Fed rate decision

EU chief&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen raised the prospect Wednesday of Canada becoming the 27-nation bloc's first "associate member', as she pitched closer cooperation on tech, defence and energy to Canadian leader Mark Carney."I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU," von der Leyen told the Canadian prime minister, who was attending her annual keynote speech to the European Parliament, drawing a standing ovation in the chamber.

EU chief pitches 'associate member' status for Canada

New Zealand’s Parliament has passed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Wednesday, describing the deal as a “landmark” agreement expected to create more jobs and boost incomes for New Zealanders.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-zealand-parliament-clears-india-trade-deal-95-of-exports-to-get-tariff-cuts-1789540927800">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260916/image-1789545629649.jpg?rect=(0,68,1065,799)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="New Zealand Parliament clears India trade deal, 95% of exports to get tariff cuts"></figure>

New Zealand Parliament clears FTA with India

The Pentagon is asking military commanders to nominate servicemembers to attend Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s “State of the Force” address on September 30, with candidates required to meet specific physical and grooming standards. According to emails reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, nominees must meet the Army’s waist-to-height requirements, pass fitness tests and maintain “impeccable” grooming and uniform standards.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fit-and-impeccable-pentagon-sets-standards-for-hegseth-s-state-of-the-force-speech-attendees-1789538597234">Read here</a>

Fit and impeccable? Pentagon sets standards for Hegseth's 'State of the Force' speech attendees

The Trump administration&nbsp;is planning to deliver powerful 2,000lb bombs to Israel as part of an upcoming arms deal, weapons that prompted such concerns about the possibility of mass casualties in Gaza that the Biden administration paused their delivery two years ago.The $2.8bn package includes 40,000 bombs, made up of 20,000 MK-84s and 20,000 BLU-117s, according to two US officials and a person familiar with the plan who spoke on Tuesday on condition of anonymity to discuss the package, which is not yet final.

US set to deliver 2,000lb bombs to Israel as part of vast arms deal

Tamil Nadu BJP chief Nainar Nagenthran demanded the immediate removal of Ganesha idols allegedly modelled on the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president and Chief Minister Vijay at Korukkupet in Chennai, saying it “cheapens the spiritual sentiments of the people”

Vijay-Themed Ganesh Idols Spark Huge Political Row In Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay’s event was cancelled in London, after police cited safety concerns. The cancellation left many fans, some of whom had queued for hours, disappointed.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's London event called off over 'safety concerns', fans left waiting

The Iran War has cost the United States a total of $38 billion so far, according to the Congressional Budget Office

Iran war cost hits $38 billion, forecast to rise $3 billion a month, CBO says

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested a 21-year-old Pennsylvania man after an investigation uncovered what federal authorities described as an imminent ISIS-inspired "mass casualty attack". The arrest was made before the alleged mass casualty event could be carried out. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-all-in-the-name-of-fbi-arrests-pennsylvania-21-year-old-over-alleged-isis-inspired-mass-casualty-attack-plot-1789524553059">READ MORE</a>

‘Kill all in the name of...’: FBI arrests 21-year-old over alleged ISIS-inspired mass-casualty attack plot

India’s imports from Russia jumped 57% in the first five months of the financial year, official data show, deepening an energy import-driven relationship even as New Delhi presses Moscow and Beijing for greater market access. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-imports-from-russia-jump-57-in-five-months-china-remains-top-import-source-1789486664084">READ MORE</a>

India’s imports from Russia jump 57% in five months; China remains top import source

The government announced that Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments above ₹2,000 will attract a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) of 0.4 per cent under a revised framework introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). However, consumers will continue to use UPI without paying any charges. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/upi-rule-change-0-4-mdr-on-merchant-payments-above-2-000-consumers-unaffected-1789489025740">READ MORE</a>

UPI rule change: 0.4% MDR on merchant payments above ₹2,000; consumers unaffected

OpenAI boss Sam Altman on Tuesday (Sep 16) said that people were justified in their fears around artificial intelligence (AI), but added that people should have more faith in his company. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-boss-sam-altman-repeats-ai-slow-down-call-says-world-right-to-be-afraid-1789524970459">READ MORE</a>

OpenAI boss Sam Altman repeats AI 'slow down' call, says world 'right to be afraid'

Three people have died after a helicopter crashed between two commercial buildings in the Chatsworth neighbourhood of Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The helicopter went down near Lurline Avenue and Nordhoff Street shortly before 19:00 local time on Tuesday, an LAFD spokesperson was quoted as saying in an interview. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/los-angeles-helicopter-crash-at-least-three-dead-several-injured-ntsb-to-investigate-1789530915516">READ MORE</a>

Los Angeles helicopter crash: At least three dead, several injured; NTSB to investigate

Saudi Arabia has said that its air defences intercepted a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it entered restricted airspace over the holy city. Soon after, several areas on Saudi Arabia'swestern coast, including the holy city of Mecca and the Jeddah and Taif governorates were briefly put on alert. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-accuses-houthis-of-drone-attack-on-mecca-first-ever-red-alert-in-islam-s-holiest-site-sparks-panic-1789531656093">READ MORE</a>

Saudi Arabia accuses Houthis of drone attack on Mecca

Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of targeting Mecca with a drone, while the US House advanced a Russia sanctions bill with potential 100% tariffs. AI safety concerns, a fatal LA helicopter crash, CDSCO’s warning on skin creams, UPI fees and more

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay tuned to this live blog for all the latest news and breaking developments from India and around the world. Saudi Arabia has accused the Houthis of attempting to target Mecca with a drone, saying its air defences intercepted the UAV before it entered restricted airspace near Islam’s holiest city. The Houthis have denied targeting Mecca. In the United States, the House has advanced a Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries importing Russian oil, potentially affecting major buyers such as India and China. Meanwhile, AI leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, have spoken publicly about growing concerns over artificial intelligence safety, regulation and the pace of development. In California, NBC’s Colleen Williams confirmed that NewsChopper 4 was the helicopter that crashed in Los Angeles, killing three people. The incident occurred near the Chatsworth crash site where an SUV previously ploughed into a Metro bus, killing at least two people. In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has issued a nationwide public health alert over two unauthorised Pakistan-made skin-whitening products, Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream. Meanwhile, discussions continue over merchant discount rates and fees for large merchant payments on UPI, while transactions up to ₹2,000 remain free. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s high-profile official visit to the United Kingdom has sparked political debate back home, with attention focused on the visit and its wider political implications

Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of targeting Mecca with a drone, while the US House advanced a Russia sanctions bill with potential 100% tariffs. AI safety concerns, a fatal LA helicopter crash, CDSCO’s warning on skin creams, UPI fees and more

Latest India & World News Today LIVE: Mecca missile alert, heath alert in India over Pak-made creams, and more

The cost of US President Donald Trump's war on Iran has risen to an estimated $38.1 billion till August, according to a report released by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). According to the report, the war could cost America another $2 billion to $3 billion for each additional month of fighting.The CBO lists the report, "Estimating the Costs of Combat Operations Against Iran," among its current defence and national security studies.Of the over $38 billion spent on the war, more than half was spent on replacing missiles and other munitions used in the conflict. Meanwhile, increased flying hours accounted for another $10.4 billion. Higher fuel prices added an estimated $2.7 billion, according to the figures in the report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-iran-war-faces-fresh-house-rebuke-7-republicans-join-democrats-in-push-to-end-conflict-ahead-of-midterms-1789528209869">Trump's Iran war faces fresh House rebuke; 7 Republicans join Democrats in push to end conflict ahead of midterms</a>The conflict has also placed heavy pressure on the US missile-defence stockpile. The CBO estimates that as much as two-thirds of the nation's missile-defence interceptors have been used since June 2025, largely as the US helped defend Israel against Iranian attacks."Rebuilding DoD’s inventory of interceptors would probably take at least five years, even if production was increased," the CBO said in the report, requested by Rep. Brendan Boyle, the Pennsylvania Democrat and top Democrat on the House Budget Committee.<h2>Missile shortages could affect US readiness</h2>The depletion of interceptor stocks could have wider implications for US military planning, particularly in a potential conflict involving an adversary with large inventories of ballistic and cruise missiles.The CBO specifically pointed to China and a possible conflict over Taiwan, warning that shortages could become "especially problematic" under those circumstances.The pace of weapons use has also strained the broader US defence industrial base. A recent Defense Department inspector general assessment cited shortages of solid rocket motors, explosives, propellants and skilled workers as obstacles to rebuilding stockpiles.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-of-israelis-call-jewish-west-bank-rioters-israeli-terrorists-poll-finds-1789533323445">One-third of Israelis call Jewish West Bank rioters ‘Israeli terrorists': Poll</a><h2>War pushing up inflation and fuel prices</h2>The economic effects of the conflict are extending beyond the Pentagon. Disruptions to oil and natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, along with interruptions to shipping through the Red Sea, have pushed up energy and transportation costs.The CBO estimates that by the first quarter of 2027, the war could add 0.5 percentage points to year-over-year inflation as measured by the personal consumption expenditures price index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge. Core PCE inflation could be 0.3 percentage points higher, it said."The price of almost every product reflects shipping costs," the CBO said. By early 2027, gasoline and other fuels are expected to account for about 40% of the conflict’s impact on consumer prices, according to the analysis.

The US-Iran war has already cost Washington tens of billions of dollars, with the bill still rising. But the biggest concern may extend beyond money, as US missile-defence stocks face a potentially years-long recovery.

The cost of US President Donald Trump's war on Iran has risen to an estimated $38.1 billion till August, according to a report released by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). According to the report, the war could cost America another $2 billion to $3 billion for each additional month of fighting. The CBO lists the report, "Estimating the Costs of Combat Operations Against Iran," among its current defence and national security studies. Of the over $38 billion spent on the war, more than half was spent on replacing missiles and other munitions used in the conflict. Meanwhile, increased flying hours accounted for another $10.4 billion. Higher fuel prices added an estimated $2.7 billion, according to the figures in the report. Also read | Trump's Iran war faces fresh House rebuke; 7 Republicans join Democrats in push to end conflict ahead of midterms The conflict has also placed heavy pressure on the US missile-defence stockpile. The CBO estimates that as much as two-thirds of the nation's missile-defence interceptors have been used since June 2025, largely as the US helped defend Israel against Iranian attacks. "Rebuilding DoD’s inventory of interceptors would probably take at least five years, even if production was increased," the CBO said in the report, requested by Rep. Brendan Boyle, the Pennsylvania Democrat and top Democrat on the House Budget Committee. Missile shortages could affect US readiness The depletion of interceptor stocks could have wider implications for US military planning, particularly in a potential conflict involving an adversary with large inventories of ballistic and cruise missiles. The CBO specifically pointed to China and a possible conflict over Taiwan, warning that shortages could become "especially problematic" under those circumstances. The pace of weapons use has also strained the broader US defence industrial base. A recent Defense Department inspector general assessment cited shortages of solid rocket motors, explosives, propellants and skilled workers as obstacles to rebuilding stockpiles. Also read | One-third of Israelis call Jewish West Bank rioters ‘Israeli terrorists': Poll War pushing up inflation and fuel prices The economic effects of the conflict are extending beyond the Pentagon. Disruptions to oil and natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, along with interruptions to shipping through the Red Sea, have pushed up energy and transportation costs. The CBO estimates that by the first quarter of 2027, the war could add 0.5 percentage points to year-over-year inflation as measured by the personal consumption expenditures price index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge. Core PCE inflation could be 0.3 percentage points higher, it said. "The price of almost every product reflects shipping costs," the CBO said. By early 2027, gasoline and other fuels are expected to account for about 40% of the conflict’s impact on consumer prices, according to the analysis.

The US-Iran war has already cost Washington tens of billions of dollars, with the bill still rising. But the biggest concern may extend beyond money, as US missile-defence stocks face a potentially years-long recovery.

US midterm elections take place halfway through a president’s four-year term, which is why they are known as ‘midterms’. According to the US Vote Foundation, these elections are held two years after a presidential election and take place across all 50 states. The President and Vice President, however, are not on the ballot.<h2>What is decided in a midterm election?</h2>According to US Vote Foundation, the entire composition of Congress is at stake during a midterm election. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are contested, while roughly one-third of the 100 seats in the Senate are also up for election. Beyond the federal races, voters in many states may also decide contests for governor, state legislatures, judges and other local offices. State-specific ballot measures may also appear on voters’ ballots.<h2>How does one registers to vote?</h2>According to usa.gov, voters can start the registration process through vote.gov by selecting their state or territory. The website provides information on whether voters can register online, by mail or in person through their local election office. Other registration options include downloading the National Mail Voter Registration Form, contacting local government offices, visiting a department of motor vehicles, or reaching out to state and county public assistance offices, including SNAP agencies.&nbsp;US citizens living overseas, service members stationed abroad and eligible family members can register and request absentee ballots through the Federal Voting Assistance Program. According to the US Election Assistance Commission, eligibility requirements differ from state to state. Generally, voters must:<ul><li>Be a US citizen</li><li>Be at least 18 years old by Election Day</li><li>Meet applicable residency requirements</li></ul>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-eliana-moreno-nbc-la-aerial-reporter-killed-in-chatsworth-crash-1789543749226">Who was Eliana Moreno? NBC LA aerial reporter killed in Chatsworth crash</a><h2>What is the last day to register to vote?</h2>There is no nationwide voter-registration deadline that applies to every state. According to information from the US Election Assistance Commission, some states permit voters to register on Election Day, while others set deadlines as much as 30 days before the election. The US Vote Foundation also maintains state-specific election dates and registration deadlines for the 2026 midterm elections. Voters should check their state election office or official election calendar to confirm the registration deadline that applies to them.<h2>What documents are needed to register?</h2>Voter-registration documentation requirements vary by state. In many cases, voters may need a driver’s license or state-issued identification. Depending on state rules, people without those forms of identification may be able to use other documents, such as a bank statement or utility bill. Voters should check with their state election office for the exact documentation requirements.<h2>What are the 2026 midterm elections?</h2>The 2026 US midterm elections involve two major stages of voting: primary elections and the general election.<h2>Midterm primary elections</h2>Primary elections take place on different dates in different states and begin earlier in the year. Primaries determine which candidates will represent political parties in various races. Voters should consult the relevant state election calendar for the exact date of their primary.<h2>2026 general election</h2>The second stage is the general election, which will take place nationwide on the same day. US federal elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. This scheduling rule dates to the 19th century, when the timing was designed around the travel and agricultural patterns of many Americans. Tuesday was selected to allow people to travel to polling places after Sunday church services. The Election Act of 1845 established the federal election schedule that continues to govern Election Day. The 2026 Midterm General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 3.

2026 US midterm elections explained: Find the November 3 date, voter registration rules, deadlines, documents, primaries and key races across the US

US midterm elections take place halfway through a president’s four-year term, which is why they are known as ‘midterms’. According to the US Vote Foundation, these elections are held two years after a presidential election and take place across all 50 states. The President and Vice President, however, are not on the ballot. What is decided in a midterm election? According to US Vote Foundation, the entire composition of Congress is at stake during a midterm election. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are contested, while roughly one-third of the 100 seats in the Senate are also up for election. Beyond the federal races, voters in many states may also decide contests for governor, state legislatures, judges and other local offices. State-specific ballot measures may also appear on voters’ ballots. How does one registers to vote? According to usa.gov, voters can start the registration process through vote.gov by selecting their state or territory. The website provides information on whether voters can register online, by mail or in person through their local election office. Other registration options include downloading the National Mail Voter Registration Form, contacting local government offices, visiting a department of motor vehicles, or reaching out to state and county public assistance offices, including SNAP agencies. US citizens living overseas, service members stationed abroad and eligible family members can register and request absentee ballots through the Federal Voting Assistance Program. According to the US Election Assistance Commission, eligibility requirements differ from state to state. Generally, voters must: Be a US citizen Be at least 18 years old by Election Day Meet applicable residency requirements Also Read: Who was Eliana Moreno? NBC LA aerial reporter killed in Chatsworth crash What is the last day to register to vote? There is no nationwide voter-registration deadline that applies to every state. According to information from the US Election Assistance Commission, some states permit voters to register on Election Day, while others set deadlines as much as 30 days before the election. The US Vote Foundation also maintains state-specific election dates and registration deadlines for the 2026 midterm elections. Voters should check their state election office or official election calendar to confirm the registration deadline that applies to them. What documents are needed to register? Voter-registration documentation requirements vary by state. In many cases, voters may need a driver’s license or state-issued identification. Depending on state rules, people without those forms of identification may be able to use other documents, such as a bank statement or utility bill. Voters should check with their state election office for the exact documentation requirements. What are the 2026 midterm elections? The 2026 US midterm elections involve two major stages of voting: primary elections and the general election. Midterm primary elections Primary elections take place on different dates in different states and begin earlier in the year. Primaries determine which candidates will represent political parties in various races. Voters should consult the relevant state election calendar for the exact date of their primary. 2026 general election The second stage is the general election, which will take place nationwide on the same day. US federal elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. This scheduling rule dates to the 19th century, when the timing was designed around the travel and agricultural patterns of many Americans. Tuesday was selected to allow people to travel to polling places after Sunday church services. The Election Act of 1845 established the federal election schedule that continues to govern Election Day. The 2026 Midterm General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 3.

The 2026 US midterm elections are set for November 3, covering Congress, governors and local races. Learn registration rules, deadlines and voting

US midterm elections 2026: When is election day and how do you register to vote? All you need to know

A Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 returned to Mashhad airport in Iran after suffering a burst tyre and engine damage shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was bound for Kermanshah when the crew detected the issue moments after take-off. According to reports, the pilot informed passengers of a technical problem after the tyre came off one of the aircraft's wheels. In the video seen on social media, the aircraft shook heavily, prompting the crew to abandon the journey and turn back to Mashhad Airport. Passengers onboard described tense moments as the aircraft vibrated violently.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">An Iranian Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 was forced to return to Mashhad Airport after a tire reportedly burst shortly after takeoff and the aircraft suffered engine damage. The flight had been heading to Kermanshah. Video from inside the plane showed tense passengers. <a href="https://t.co/5yR8l6t3cH">pic.twitter.com/5yR8l6t3cH</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2099871393231810960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Boeing 737 landed safely in Mashhad, where emergency services were on standby. Initial reports indicated that no injuries were reported among passengers or crew. The shaking reportedly affected parts of the cabin interior, with overhead compartments opening and personal belongings falling onto seats and the aisle. Some passengers were reportedly struck by falling items. Authorities have not yet released a detailed statement on the cause of the incident. Aviation officials are expected to examine the aircraft and determine whether the reported tyre failure was linked to the subsequent engine malfunction. According to reports, Iran's Civil Aviation Organisation has launched an investigation into the incident. The investigation is expected to establish what caused the reported tyre failure, whether there was subsequent engine damage, why the aircraft experience such severe turbulence and why parts of the cabin interior became detached.

A Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 was forced to return to Mashhad after a wheel tyre reportedly detached shortly after take-off, triggering an engine-related problem and severe vibrations. No injuries were reported.

A Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 returned to Mashhad airport in Iran after suffering a burst tyre and engine damage shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was bound for Kermanshah when the crew detected the issue moments after take-off. According to reports, the pilot informed passengers of a technical problem after the tyre came off one of the aircraft's wheels. In the video seen on social media, the aircraft shook heavily, prompting the crew to abandon the journey and turn back to Mashhad Airport. Passengers onboard described tense moments as the aircraft vibrated violently.

A Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 was forced to return to Mashhad after a wheel tyre reportedly detached shortly after take-off, triggering an engine-related problem and severe vibrations. No injuries were reported.

Passengers scream as Iran flight suffers mid-air scare: Boeing 737 shakes violently after take-off | VIDEO

Eliana Moreno, an aerial photographer and reporter for NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52, was among the two people killed when an NBC News helicopter crashed in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, while covering a major traffic accident on September 15. NBC Los Angeles confirmed that Moreno and helicopter pilot George Marciniw were aboard the aircraft when it went down. A third person, believed to have been on the ground when the helicopter crashed, also died. One person was injured and was reported to be in unknown condition.&nbsp;The helicopter was covering an accident in Chatsworth in which an SUV collided with a Metro bus. Initial reports said the vehicle crash left at least two people dead and six others injured. NBC Los Angeles initially reported that it was unable to reach its pilot and the people aboard the helicopter. The station later confirmed on air that the crashed aircraft belonged to NBC.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-top-pakistan-diplomat-after-pak-navy-ship-collides-with-indian-warship-at-high-seas-1789542540851">India summons top Pakistan diplomat after Pak Navy ship collides with Indian warship at high seas</a><h2>Who was Eliana Moreno?</h2>Moreno was an experienced aerial photographer and television reporter who worked with NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52 as part of NewsChopper 4. She was a Chapman University graduate with degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Political Science.Her LinkedIn profile said that she had wanted to become a television news reporter since childhood. “Since age eleven, Eliana knew she wanted to be a television news reporter.”&nbsp;According to the profile, Moreno joined Angel City Air in September 2010 after reporting and anchoring for several media organizations in Orange County in both Spanish and English. “Before joining the team at Angel City Air in September 2010, Eliana reported and anchored for several media outlets in Orange County in Spanish and English…In her spare time, she guest speaks at local high schools and colleges to aspiring journalists.”&nbsp;Moreno was fluent in Spanish and had experience with AVID and Final Cut editing. Her professional profile listed her work across several roles, including camerawoman, anchor, producer and spokeswoman. Her work as an aerial journalist focused on giving viewers a real-time perspective during emergencies, particularly wildfires and other incidents.&nbsp;In a recent Instagram post highlighting her work, Moreno wrote, “Aerial photography and reporting turns smoke on the horizon into critical information that saves lives and property. That's why we need @eli_in_the_heli and NewsChopper4 giving us real-time brushfire coverage that shows scale, spread, speed, and most importantly, how firefighters are working to contain a blaze. We're honored to have them as part of Whiteman Airport, and we thank them for their crucial reporting.”&nbsp;Moreno's career combined television reporting with aerial photography, providing viewers with images and information from above during breaking-news events. Her death came while she was carrying out that role during coverage of the Chatsworth crash.

Eliana Moreno, NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52 helicopter reporter, was killed with pilot George Marciniw in a Chatsworth crash on September 15

Eliana Moreno, an aerial photographer and reporter for NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52, was among the two people killed when an NBC News helicopter crashed in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, while covering a major traffic accident on September 15. NBC Los Angeles confirmed that Moreno and helicopter pilot George Marciniw were aboard the aircraft when it went down. A third person, believed to have been on the ground when the helicopter crashed, also died. One person was injured and was reported to be in unknown condition. The helicopter was covering an accident in Chatsworth in which an SUV collided with a Metro bus. Initial reports said the vehicle crash left at least two people dead and six others injured. NBC Los Angeles initially reported that it was unable to reach its pilot and the people aboard the helicopter. The station later confirmed on air that the crashed aircraft belonged to NBC. Also Read: India summons top Pakistan diplomat after Pak Navy ship collides with Indian warship at high seas Who was Eliana Moreno? Moreno was an experienced aerial photographer and television reporter who worked with NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52 as part of NewsChopper 4. She was a Chapman University graduate with degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Political Science. Her LinkedIn profile said that she had wanted to become a television news reporter since childhood. “Since age eleven, Eliana knew she wanted to be a television news reporter.” According to the profile, Moreno joined Angel City Air in September 2010 after reporting and anchoring for several media organizations in Orange County in both Spanish and English. “Before joining the team at Angel City Air in September 2010, Eliana reported and anchored for several media outlets in Orange County in Spanish and English…In her spare time, she guest speaks at local high schools and colleges to aspiring journalists.” Moreno was fluent in Spanish and had experience with AVID and Final Cut editing. Her professional profile listed her work across several roles, including camerawoman, anchor, producer and spokeswoman. Her work as an aerial journalist focused on giving viewers a real-time perspective during emergencies, particularly wildfires and other incidents. In a recent Instagram post highlighting her work, Moreno wrote, “Aerial photography and reporting turns smoke on the horizon into critical information that saves lives and property. That's why we need @eli_in_the_heli and NewsChopper4 giving us real-time brushfire coverage that shows scale, spread, speed, and most importantly, how firefighters are working to contain a blaze. We're honored to have them as part of Whiteman Airport, and we thank them for their crucial reporting.” Moreno's career combined television reporting with aerial photography, providing viewers with images and information from above during breaking-news events. Her death came while she was carrying out that role during coverage of the Chatsworth crash.

Eliana Moreno, an NBC Los Angeles helicopter reporter, died with pilot George Marciniw in a Chatsworth helicopter crash while covering a crash

world news

Kash Patel grilled over FBI decision to drop bestiality as hiring disqualifier | Race to Power

Sweden expels Iranian embassy official – What triggered the diplomatic shock?

No social media under 13: EU unveils new online safety rules for children

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci found guilty of four war crimes

‘Particularly concerning’: India condemns alleged Houthi drone attack near Mecca

Taiwan seeks deeper India ties: Direct flights soon, chip projects advance

War will be ‘completely different, very short’ if Europe attacks Russia: Lavrov

PNS Hunain: All about Pakistani vessel that hit Indian Navy warship

At least 20 killed after war-damaged apartment building collapses in Gaza

Canada to become EU’s first ‘associate member’? Von der Leyen proposes move

Top 10 economies by GDP in 2026: How US, China and India rank

Shahzad Bhatti Network declared terrorist organisation under UAPA: Govt order

Trump admin will comply with Supreme Court mail ballot ruling

Pakistan naval vessel returns to harbour with 'severe damage' after collision with Indian warship in Arabian Sea

UNGA 2026: How many countries are members of the United Nations? Full list

People’s connectivity core of BRICS agenda at New Delhi

Latest India & World News Today LIVE: Mecca missile alert, India's UPI and more

Trump’s Iran war has cost US $38.1 billion, CBO estimates

US midterm elections 2026: Date, voter registration, deadlines and key details

Iran flight suffers mid-air scare: Boeing 737 shakes violently

Who was Eliana Moreno? NBC LA aerial reporter killed in Chatsworth crash

Why is Todd Blanche accusing Democrats of pushing AI fears?

New Zealand clears India trade deal, 95% of exports to get tariff cuts

Fit and impeccable? Pentagon sets standards for Pete Hegseth's speech attendees

‘5 lakh fake Gmail IDs uncovered’: Why Gujarat police want answers from Google

Trump threatens to keep Kennedy Center shut after judge blocks name from facade