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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in India on 19 October, his second trip to the country this year, as Washington and New Delhi work to manage both deepening strategic ties and fresh points of friction. During this visit, he will be travelling to India's financial capital, Mumbai.&nbsp;The visit follows Rubio’s four-day tour in May, which took him from Kolkata to Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi and included talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and a Quad foreign ministers’ meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jaishankar-meets-rubio-on-unga-sidelines-raises-delhi-s-concern-over-russia-sanctions-law-1790179886768">Jaishankar meets Rubio on UNGA sidelines, raises Delhi’s concern over Russia sanctions law</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, India's EAM Dr Jaishankar and counterpart Rubio met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York earlier today. In that meeting, India restated its concerns over the newly signed Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The law authorises the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from the largest buyers of Russian crude oil and gas. India is one of the largest importers of Russian oil and has repeatedly said its purchases are driven by energy security for 1.4 billion people.&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar posted afterwards that he had “reiterated India’s interests and concerns with regard to SRIA” and that the two also discussed the situations in the Gulf and Ukraine. Rubio described the meeting as part of efforts to build on the strategic partnership and coordinate on regional priorities.The law does not automatically trigger tariffs; any action would require a presidential decision.&nbsp;The October visit will be an opportunity to advance trade talks, defence cooperation, critical minerals supply chains and people-to-people ties even as energy sanctions and earlier tariff disputes linger.&nbsp;&nbsp;The frequency of contact, two secretary-of-state visits in a single year, plus meetings at the UN, in Manila and at the G7, is being watched as a test of whether the two governments can compartmentalise differences over India's import of Russian energy while expanding cooperation on technology, defence production and the Quad.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit India on October 19 for his second trip this year, with the visit coming amid ongoing trade talks and New Delhi’s concerns over the proposed Russia sanctions bill.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to arrive in India on 19 October, his second trip to the country this year, as Washington and New Delhi work to manage both deepening strategic ties and fresh points of friction. During this visit, he will be travelling to India's financial capital, Mumbai. The visit follows Rubio’s four-day tour in May, which took him from Kolkata to Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi and included talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and a Quad foreign ministers’ meeting. Also Read: Jaishankar meets Rubio on UNGA sidelines, raises Delhi’s concern over Russia sanctions law Meanwhile, India's EAM Dr Jaishankar and counterpart Rubio met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York earlier today. In that meeting, India restated its concerns over the newly signed Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The law authorises the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from the largest buyers of Russian crude oil and gas. India is one of the largest importers of Russian oil and has repeatedly said its purchases are driven by energy security for 1.4 billion people. EAM Jaishankar posted afterwards that he had “reiterated India’s interests and concerns with regard to SRIA” and that the two also discussed the situations in the Gulf and Ukraine. Rubio described the meeting as part of efforts to build on the strategic partnership and coordinate on regional priorities.The law does not automatically trigger tariffs; any action would require a presidential decision. The October visit will be an opportunity to advance trade talks, defence cooperation, critical minerals supply chains and people-to-people ties even as energy sanctions and earlier tariff disputes linger. The frequency of contact, two secretary-of-state visits in a single year, plus meetings at the UN, in Manila and at the G7, is being watched as a test of whether the two governments can compartmentalise differences over India's import of Russian energy while expanding cooperation on technology, defence production and the Quad.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit India on October 19 for his second trip this year, with the visit coming amid ongoing trade talks and New Delhi’s concerns over the proposed Russia sanctions bill.

US Secretary of state Marco Rubio to visit India on 19th October

Former Film Producer Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 15 years in prison after he pleaded not guilty. The jury found him guilty last year of committing a first-degree criminal sexual act against a former “Project Runway” production assistant, Miriam Haley. Weinstein appeared in court in a wheelchair, denied the allegations, but apologised to "anyone I may have hurt by my actions".Miriam Haley said in the victim impact statement that Weinstein “abused his position and power,” and that the assault had a "devastating effect on my life and sense of security that may never go away".Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delhi-kalkaji-gang-rape-lsr-classes-online-women-safety-1790176976865">Delhi 17-year-old gang raped, LSR students protest, college seeks more police patrols</a>Weinstein, was originally convicted of third-degree rape involving former aspiring actor Jessica Mann and first-degree criminal sexual act involving Haley in 2020 and sentenced to 23 years in prison. However, New York's highest court overturned that verdict in 2024 due to a flawed trial process, forcing a retrial. He was convicted again last year on a single charge of a criminal sexual act against Haley, for forcibly performed oral sex on her in his New York City apartment in 2006. Separate juries twice deadlocked on a rape charge involving aspiring actress Jessica Mann.&nbsp;The 2020 trial heard testimony from three women- Haley, actress Jessica Mann, and model Kaja Sokola. The jury did not find him guilty of assaulting Sokola, while no verdict was reached on the alleged rape of Jessica Mann.&nbsp;Weistein, 74, &nbsp;had already spent six years in prison. He will face roughly less than nine years remaining on this specific New York term.&nbsp;

Former film producer Harvey Weinstein has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after his conviction over the 2006 sexual assault of Miriam Haley.

Former Film Producer Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 15 years in prison after he pleaded not guilty. The jury found him guilty last year of committing a first-degree criminal sexual act against a former “Project Runway” production assistant, Miriam Haley. Weinstein appeared in court in a wheelchair, denied the allegations, but apologised to "anyone I may have hurt by my actions". Miriam Haley said in the victim impact statement that Weinstein “abused his position and power,” and that the assault had a "devastating effect on my life and sense of security that may never go away". Also Read: Delhi 17-year-old gang raped, LSR students protest, college seeks more police patrols Weinstein, was originally convicted of third-degree rape involving former aspiring actor Jessica Mann and first-degree criminal sexual act involving Haley in 2020 and sentenced to 23 years in prison. However, New York's highest court overturned that verdict in 2024 due to a flawed trial process, forcing a retrial. He was convicted again last year on a single charge of a criminal sexual act against Haley, for forcibly performed oral sex on her in his New York City apartment in 2006. Separate juries twice deadlocked on a rape charge involving aspiring actress Jessica Mann. The 2020 trial heard testimony from three women- Haley, actress Jessica Mann, and model Kaja Sokola. The jury did not find him guilty of assaulting Sokola, while no verdict was reached on the alleged rape of Jessica Mann. Weistein, 74, had already spent six years in prison. He will face roughly less than nine years remaining on this specific New York term.

Former film producer Harvey Weinstein has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after his conviction over the 2006 sexual assault of Miriam Haley.

Harvey Weinstein gets 15-year prison sentence over Miriam Haley assault

Poland on Wednesday (Sep 23) said that a Russian military helicopter briefly violated its airspace. It added that in response, NATO fighter jets were scrambled, while ground forces remained on alert. Polish Army Operational Command said that the Mi-8 aircraft entered the Polish airspace from the Russian ​exclave of Kaliningrad and stayed for 42 seconds. It penetrated the country’s airspace to a depth of about 300 metres (328 yards).In a statement, the Polish military said, “Fighter ​aircraft were scrambled, and ground-based ​forces and assets remained on standby.”It further added, “The ‌nature ⁠of the incident indicates that Russia is once again testing the readiness of our air ​defense.”Poland said the Mi-8 helicopter crossed into Polish airspace north of the town of Braniewo at around 11:08 am local time. Polish radar systems tracked its movement throughout the incident.The incident comes as Poland remains on heightened alert over potential spillover from Moscow’s war in Ukraine. Poland and other NATO members have increasingly warned about possible Russian attempts to test the alliance’s response, while Moscow has repeatedly denied plans to attack NATO countries.Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Russia does not intend to attack NATO states. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, meanwhile, has accused European countries of preparing for conflict and warned that any European attack on Russia would lead to “a completely different war [from that in Ukraine], and it will be very short.”<h2>Growing concern over hybrid threats</h2>The helicopter incident comes against a backdrop of repeated airspace and security incidents involving NATO’s eastern flank.Poland has previously reported Russian drones and a missile entering its territory since the invasion of Ukraine. Warsaw has also raised concerns over possible drone and missile strikes and other forms of pressure aimed at countries supporting Kyiv.Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk recently said the “Russian hybrid threat against Europeans” had intensified, arguing that the objective was to intimidate countries supporting Ukraine.Hybrid attacks can include cyberattacks, sabotage and disinformation rather than conventional military action. Several European countries have recently accused Russia of involvement in such incidents, allegations Moscow has rejected.The latest helicopter incursion adds another test for Poland as it continues to monitor activity along its border with Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and the wider NATO eastern flank.

A Russian Mi-8 helicopter briefly entered Polish airspace near Braniewo, prompting fighter jets to scramble and ground forces to remain alert amid rising NATO concerns over Russian threats.

Poland on Wednesday (Sep 23) said that a Russian military helicopter briefly violated its airspace. It added that in response, NATO fighter jets were scrambled, while ground forces remained on alert. Polish Army Operational Command said that the Mi-8 aircraft entered the Polish airspace from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and stayed for 42 seconds. It penetrated the country’s airspace to a depth of about 300 metres (328 yards). In a statement, the Polish military said, “Fighter aircraft were scrambled, and ground-based forces and assets remained on standby.” It further added, “The ‌nature ⁠of the incident indicates that Russia is once again testing the readiness of our air defense.” Poland said the Mi-8 helicopter crossed into Polish airspace north of the town of Braniewo at around 11:08 am local time. Polish radar systems tracked its movement throughout the incident. The incident comes as Poland remains on heightened alert over potential spillover from Moscow’s war in Ukraine. Poland and other NATO members have increasingly warned about possible Russian attempts to test the alliance’s response, while Moscow has repeatedly denied plans to attack NATO countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Russia does not intend to attack NATO states. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, meanwhile, has accused European countries of preparing for conflict and warned that any European attack on Russia would lead to “a completely different war [from that in Ukraine], and it will be very short.” Growing concern over hybrid threats The helicopter incident comes against a backdrop of repeated airspace and security incidents involving NATO’s eastern flank. Poland has previously reported Russian drones and a missile entering its territory since the invasion of Ukraine. Warsaw has also raised concerns over possible drone and missile strikes and other forms of pressure aimed at countries supporting Kyiv. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk recently said the “Russian hybrid threat against Europeans” had intensified, arguing that the objective was to intimidate countries supporting Ukraine. Hybrid attacks can include cyberattacks, sabotage and disinformation rather than conventional military action. Several European countries have recently accused Russia of involvement in such incidents, allegations Moscow has rejected. The latest helicopter incursion adds another test for Poland as it continues to monitor activity along its border with Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and the wider NATO eastern flank.

A Russian Mi-8 helicopter briefly entered Polish airspace near Braniewo, prompting fighter jets to scramble and ground forces to remain alert amid rising NATO concerns over Russian threats.

Russia testing NATO again? Mi-8 helicopter breaches Polish airspace briefly – What happened?

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday (Sept. 23) that Washington was seeking a halt to attacks by Russia and Ukraine on each other’s energy infrastructure.&nbsp;“We'll try, and I think we're prepared to play a positive role if we can in making that come about,” Rubio said.&nbsp;Rubio's remarks came a day after he said U.S. linked oil infrastructure had been targeted in recent weeks during the Russia-Ukraine war. Speaking to Fox News on Tuesday, he said the attacks were “probably not” deliberate.&nbsp;Rubio said Washington was concerned about being unintentionally caught in the conflict. He also linked recent increases in oil prices to fighting in the Black Sea between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the conflict in Yemen involving the Houthis.&nbsp;“The one thing we are concerned about, however, is that over the last few months, on a number of occasions, American-linked ships and American oil supplies have been targeted, probably not deliberately, but targeted nonetheless by Ukraine. And so that's something that needs to be addressed,” Rubio said.&nbsp;Crude prices remained above $100 for weeks, while gasoline and diesel prices also rose in the United States. The increase added to inflation and put further pressure on consumer spending across the domestic economy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-bend-at-the-knee-pezeshkian-hits-back-at-trump-at-unga-1790175284876">‘Iran will never bend at the knee’: Pezeshkian hits back at Trump at UNGA</a><h3>US invites Putin to G20 summit</h3>Rubio also said on Wednesday that the United States had invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the G20 summit of world leaders in Miami in December.&nbsp;“In order to solve problems, you have to meet with the people that you disagree with or the people that you might have some issues with, so we've invited President Putin to the G20. We think it's an opportunity for him to engage not just with the president but with other world leaders. We hope that's an invitation he'll accept,” Rubio said.&nbsp;The invitation comes after US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner travelled to Russia to seek an end to the four-and-a-half-year war with Ukraine. Their diplomatic mission focused on restarting peace talks and establishing conditions for a durable framework between the two countries.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is pushing Russia and Ukraine to halt attacks on energy infrastructure while confirming that the US has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to the G20 summit in Miami.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday (Sept. 23) that Washington was seeking a halt to attacks by Russia and Ukraine on each other’s energy infrastructure. “We'll try, and I think we're prepared to play a positive role if we can in making that come about,” Rubio said. Rubio's remarks came a day after he said U.S. linked oil infrastructure had been targeted in recent weeks during the Russia-Ukraine war. Speaking to Fox News on Tuesday, he said the attacks were “probably not” deliberate. Rubio said Washington was concerned about being unintentionally caught in the conflict. He also linked recent increases in oil prices to fighting in the Black Sea between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the conflict in Yemen involving the Houthis. “The one thing we are concerned about, however, is that over the last few months, on a number of occasions, American-linked ships and American oil supplies have been targeted, probably not deliberately, but targeted nonetheless by Ukraine. And so that's something that needs to be addressed,” Rubio said. Crude prices remained above $100 for weeks, while gasoline and diesel prices also rose in the United States. The increase added to inflation and put further pressure on consumer spending across the domestic economy. Also Read: ‘Iran will never bend at the knee’: Pezeshkian hits back at Trump at UNGA US invites Putin to G20 summit Rubio also said on Wednesday that the United States had invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the G20 summit of world leaders in Miami in December. “In order to solve problems, you have to meet with the people that you disagree with or the people that you might have some issues with, so we've invited President Putin to the G20. We think it's an opportunity for him to engage not just with the president but with other world leaders. We hope that's an invitation he'll accept,” Rubio said. The invitation comes after US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner travelled to Russia to seek an end to the four-and-a-half-year war with Ukraine. Their diplomatic mission focused on restarting peace talks and establishing conditions for a durable framework between the two countries.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is pushing Russia and Ukraine to halt attacks on energy infrastructure while confirming that the US has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to the G20 summit in Miami.

US invites Putin to G20; Rubio calls for Russia, Ukraine to halt energy strikes

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday and raised India’s “interests and concerns” over Washington’s newly enacted Russia sanctions legislation, SRIA.&nbsp;Jaishankar said in a post on X that they also discussed the situations in the Gulf and Ukraine.&nbsp;“Good to meet @SecRubio of the US during #UNHighLevelWeek. Reiterated India’s interests and concerns with regard to SRIA. Also discussed the Gulf and Ukraine situations,” he said. Jaishankar is leading the Indian delegation for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Good to meet <a href="https://x.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a> of the US <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNHighLevelWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNHighLevelWeek</a> Reiterated India’s interests and concerns with regard to SRIA. Also discussed the Gulf and Ukraine situations. 🇮🇳 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/163YRVlMZG">pic.twitter.com/163YRVlMZG</a>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102749384320684259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The meeting comes days after US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (SRIA) into law, giving him expanded authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the top five buyers of Russian oil and gas, a list that currently includes India. The legislation was passed by the US House of Representatives two days before Trump signed it into law.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unwarranted-factually-incorrect-no-locus-standi-india-hits-back-at-oic-over-kashmir-remarks-1790171577064">‘Unwarranted, factually incorrect, no locus standi’: India hits back at OIC over Kashmir remarks</a>&nbsp;The Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 cleared the House on Wednesday by a 262-159 margin, after passing the Senate 86-11 on August 7.&nbsp;The law grants Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods from the five largest purchasers of Russian crude oil and natural gas, including China, India, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the meeting, Rubio said in a post on X, “Great to meet with Indian External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar in New York today.”&nbsp;“Together, we are building on the U.S.-India strategic partnership and coordinating on key regional priorities and upcoming multilateral efforts,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Great to meet with Indian External Affairs Minister <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> in New York today. Together, we are building on the U.S.-India strategic partnership and coordinating on key regional priorities and upcoming multilateral efforts. <a href="https://t.co/i4QCAREDbY">pic.twitter.com/i4QCAREDbY</a>&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://x.com/SecRubio/status/2102742970210672904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;US diesel prices have crossed $6.50 a gallon nationally (approx Rs 165 per litre), adding costs for farmers, truckers and virtually every part of the agricultural supply chain. The Trump administration is now scrambling to restrict diesel exports amid tanking poll numbers for Trump.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-on-nations-to-quit-rogue-and-out-of-control-international-criminal-court-rips-un-1790102584297">Trump calls on nations to quit ‘rogue’ and ‘out-of-control’ International Criminal Court, rips UN</a><h2>‘Sanctions could have implications for bilateral ties, global energy market’</h2>&nbsp;India had earlier warned that the sanctions bill, which authorises tariffs of up to 100% on the five largest buyers of Russian oil, could have implications for bilateral ties as well as the global energy market.India’s external affairs ministry said the government was determined “to take all necessary measures to protect its trade and economic interests” and would work closely with trade and industry bodies to address the fallout.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strike-a-deal-or-drive-iran-into-hell-trump-issues-fresh-warning-to-tehran-at-unga-1790090594288">‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA</a>&nbsp;New Delhi has discussed the bill “at high levels in recent months with various US interlocutors,” the ministry said, adding that India had “very clearly articulated” its potential implications, “for not just the bilateral relationship but also the international energy market.”&nbsp;The ministry also reiterated that India’s energy purchases are driven by national interest. “India remains firmly committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people,” it said, adding that the country would continue sourcing energy through “diversified sourcing and on the basis of evolving market dynamics.”&nbsp;

The meeting comes days after US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (SRIA) into law, giving him expanded authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the top five buyers of Russian oil and gas, a list that currently includes India.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Wednesday and raised India’s “interests and concerns” over Washington’s newly enacted Russia sanctions legislation, SRIA. Jaishankar said in a post on X that they also discussed the situations in the Gulf and Ukraine. “Good to meet @SecRubio of the US during #UNHighLevelWeek. Reiterated India’s interests and concerns with regard to SRIA. Also discussed the Gulf and Ukraine situations,” he said. Jaishankar is leading the Indian delegation for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.

The meeting comes days after US President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (SRIA) into law, giving him expanded authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from the top five buyers of Russian oil and gas, a list that currently includes India.

Jaishankar meets Rubio on UNGA sidelines, raises Delhi’s concern over Russia sanctions law

Just a few days ahead of World Tourism Day, observed annually on September 27 to foster awareness of tourism's social, cultural, political and economic value, the WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, was held in New Delhi on September 23 at ITC Maurya. The summit brought together some of the biggest names from the tourism industry and the wider tourism ecosystem. Discussions focused on the sector's future, emerging opportunities, evolving trends, and the challenges that could shape its growth in the years ahead. After a day full of insightful sessions and discussions, the Iconic Excellence award ceremony was held, honouring achievers in their respective fields for their accomplishments. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actor-arjan-bajwa-at-wion-summit-i-m-a-jack-of-all-trades-master-of-none-from-taekwondo-black-belt-to-trained-pilot-1790176912887">Actor Arjan Bajwa at WION Summit: 'I'm a jack of all trades, master of none'</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are the winners of the Iconic awards:&nbsp;Kapil Bhatia, the Executive Chairman of Inter Globe Enterprises, was honoured with the Iconic Lifetime Achievement.&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Dance &amp; Performing Arts - Dr. Anita R Ratnam&nbsp;Iconic &nbsp;Excellence in International Aviation - Amr Aly&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Sustainable Jewellery Design - Poonam Soni&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Community-Led Hospitality - Ajay Wadhawan&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Heritage &amp; Cultural Tourism - Rajkumari Ratna Singh of Kalakankar&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Special Olympics &amp; Sports Inclusion - Gunocean Singh Bedi&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Wellness &amp; Ayurvedic Tourism - Gita Ramesh&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Hospitality Education - Dr Suborno Bose&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Travel Management - J B Singh&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Building an Indian Brand - Rishabh Bhatia, Category Manager - Luxury Spirits/ Alcobrew Distilleries India ltd, Mukkaish Pruthii National Sales Head/AlcoBrew Distilleries India ltd

Iconic CSR Leadership for Empowering the Trucking Community - Shriram Finance Limited / S. Balamurugan, Director Sales &amp; Head, CSR, Shriram Finance Limited&nbsp;Excellence in Indian Classical Music - Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Amaan Ali Bangash, Ayaan Ali Bangash, Zohaan Ali Bangash, Abeer Ali Bangash&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Literature - Ashutosh Agnihotri&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Tourism &amp; Enterprise - Arjun Sharma&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Medical Science &amp; Cardiology - Padma Bhushan Dr. T. S. Kler&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Culinary Arts &amp; Gastronomy - Dr. Chef Manjit Singh Gill&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Cultural Diplomacy &amp; International Relations - H.E. Ms. Aliki Koutsomitopoulou&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Social Impact &amp; Inclusivity - H.H. Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Aviation Entrepreneurship - Kanika Tekriwal&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Royal Heritage &amp; Bespoke Design - Raghavendra Rathore&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Inclusive Skilling &amp; Empowerment - Dr. Jyotsna Suri&nbsp;Iconic Excellence in Hospitality - Priya PaulIconic<h2>WION Iconic Tourism Summit brings together ministers, diplomats and global tourism leaders</h2>The WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards witnessed the gathering of stakeholders to discuss and debate the future of travel and tourism, including Union and state ministers, ambassadors and high commissioners, tourism and hospitality leaders, aviation and visa experts, technology innovators and industry stalwarts from across India and the world. The landmark gathering, presented by VFS Global, in association with Red Hat Communications, featured a day of high-level conversations on mobility, tourism, diplomacy, technology, hospitality and the future of travel. Delivering the keynote, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the traveller of tomorrow will seek immersive experiences rather than simply visit destinations. While AI can personalise journeys, he said, human warmth will remain irreplaceable—with India’s enduring philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava at the heart of its tourism proposition. Shekhawat also described travel as a force for peace and understanding, noting that global travel grew by 4% despite geopolitical tensions and inflation, while domestic journeys in India could cross 10 billion by 2047. Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra outlined plans to position the capital as a global tourism hub, offering the industry viability-gap funding and greater collaboration around major events. Speaking ahead of the awards, Zee Media CEO Raktim Das unveiled two new WION initiatives—WION World Conferences and WION Luxe—as WION completes a decade as India’s global news channel. “We are building WION not just as a news network, but as a global platform for ideas, dialogue and action,” Das said. Speaking on the role of tourism, Das said: “In a world where parts are in conflict, understanding each other becomes as important as knowing about each other. Few forces create that understanding as naturally as travel. Tourism builds connections, creates empathy and brings cultures closer.” Vinay Malhotra, Head, Strategic Global Partnerships, VFS Global spoke about how the company is helping in ease of travel: "For those who prefer that the visa centre comes to you, we coined the term VAD, or Visa at Your Doorstep. 20 governments in India currently subscribe to this facility. The end-to-end service is completed on the spot in about 30 minutes. Many governments today permit you to get a visa starting closer to the date when your travel is going to commence." Addressing the gathering, Jyoti Mayal, CEO of Red Hat Communications and Chairperson of THSC, said: “What began as a simple idea to create meaningful dialogue has evolved into one of the industry's most respected forums for thought leadership, collaboration, and action. We meet at a defining moment for our industry. Artificial Intelligence will transform our industry, but hospitality will always remain a people-centric industry.”<h2>A global conversation on the future of travel</h2>The summit brought together an exceptional cross-section of global voices across five thematic conversations. “Borders Without Barriers: The Diplomacy of Visas and Mobility” examined the changing architecture of international travel, with participation from envoys of Seychelles, Argentina and South Africa, alongside VFS Global. “Next Gen Skills for Tourism” explored the talent and capabilities required for the industry’s next phase, bringing together leaders from the BIMSTEC Business Council Secretariat, MSME Business Forum and Radisson Hotel Group. The conversation on “Soft Power on the Move: Tourism, Culture and Bilateral Ties” brought together ambassadors from Ireland, Slovakia, Nicaragua, Greece and Sri Lanka to examine tourism as an instrument of cultural diplomacy and stronger bilateral ties. “The Business of Travel: Aviation, Hospitality and India’s Tourism Infra Story” brought together senior leaders from Sterling Holiday Resorts, IHCL, Air India, Air India Express, Visit Qatar and Cinnamon Life, alongside former diplomats and policymakers. The final conversation, “Tech Frontiers Reshaping Journeys,” examined how technology is redefining travel, featuring leaders from Kairali Ayurvedic Group, VFS Global, GMR Cargo and ITQ Technologies. The event also featured Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, director of Hanuman Ansh, who spoke about the film’s unexpected success and its impact on tourism to destinations associated with Neem Karoli Baba. The WION Iconic Tourism Summit &amp; Awards 2026 brought the industry together around a shared idea: that the future of tourism will be shaped not merely by destinations and technology, but by human connection, cultural exchange and the experiences that bring the world closer together.

The WION Iconic Summit and Awards 2026 were held at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, on September 23, discussing the future of mobility and honouring excellence across tourism, hospitality, arts and social impact. 

Just a few days ahead of World Tourism Day, observed annually on September 27 to foster awareness of tourism's social, cultural, political and economic value, the WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications, was held in New Delhi on September 23 at ITC Maurya. The summit brought together some of the biggest names from the tourism industry and the wider tourism ecosystem. Discussions focused on the sector's future, emerging opportunities, evolving trends, and the challenges that could shape its growth in the years ahead. After a day full of insightful sessions and discussions, the Iconic Excellence award ceremony was held, honouring achievers in their respective fields for their accomplishments. Also read: Actor Arjan Bajwa at WION Summit: 'I'm a jack of all trades, master of none' Here are the winners of the Iconic awards: Kapil Bhatia, the Executive Chairman of Inter Globe Enterprises, was honoured with the Iconic Lifetime Achievement. Iconic Excellence in Dance & Performing Arts - Dr. Anita R Ratnam Iconic Excellence in International Aviation - Amr Aly Iconic Excellence in Sustainable Jewellery Design - Poonam Soni Iconic Excellence in Community-Led Hospitality - Ajay Wadhawan Iconic Excellence in Heritage & Cultural Tourism - Rajkumari Ratna Singh of Kalakankar Iconic Excellence in Special Olympics & Sports Inclusion - Gunocean Singh Bedi Iconic Excellence in Wellness & Ayurvedic Tourism - Gita Ramesh Iconic Excellence in Hospitality Education - Dr Suborno Bose Iconic Excellence in Travel Management - J B Singh Iconic Excellence in Building an Indian Brand - Rishabh Bhatia, Category Manager - Luxury Spirits/ Alcobrew Distilleries India ltd, Mukkaish Pruthii National Sales Head/AlcoBrew Distilleries India ltd

The WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026 was held at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, on September 23, discussing the future of mobility and honouring excellence across tourism, hospitality, arts and social impact.&nbsp;

WION Iconic Tourism Summit & Awards brings together ministers, diplomats and tourism leaders; honours excellence across sectors

Iran's president adopted a defiant stance at the United Nations on Wednesday, delivering his first address since the outbreak of full-scale war with the United States and Israel, and declaring that Tehran would never “bend at the knee.” Masoud Pezeshkian charged Washington with committing "terrorism" over the assassination of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at the war's outset. During his remarks, he held aloft a photograph of the slain leader while maintaining that Iran had never been the aggressor in the conflict.&nbsp;The speech came a day after President Donald Trump told the UN he was considering whether to "annihilate" Iran, though Trump also praised the resumption of negotiations between Tehran and US representatives. Notably, Pezeshkian made no mention of these ongoing talks aimed at ending the stalled conflict, keeping his tone firm throughout.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-do-not-seek-security-in-insecurity-of-others-iranian-president-defends-military-actions-at-unga-1790173749361">'We do not seek security in insecurity of others': Iranian President defends military actions at UNGA</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"He must know that the resistance of the Iranian people will only increase in the face of sanctions, increased pressure, increased bullying. We will never bow our head or bend at the knee," Pezeshkian declared.&nbsp;The Iranian leader also addressed the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has intermittently blockaded since the war began, a move that has driven global energy prices sharply higher. He asserted that Tehran would not permit the waterway to be exploited for use against Iranian interests. "We cannot let some have free access and bolster their interests from the waterway, while at the same time using that waterway to impose their aggression upon us," he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-revives-india-middle-east-europe-economic-corridor-as-india-emerges-central-to-west-asia-s-future-1790131037627">Trump revives India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor as India emerges central to West Asia’s future: What is it?</a>&nbsp;The surge in fuel prices carries political risk for Trump, with rising costs threatening to undermine Republican control of Congress ahead of November's midterm elections.&nbsp;Uncertainty had surrounded whether Pezeshkian would even attend the UN gathering in Manhattan, as it remained unclear for some time whether the US would grant him a visa. Washington ultimately approved his entry, though several members of his delegation were denied visas.

Addressing the UN General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a defiant message to US President Donald Trump, declaring that Iran will never "bend at the knee" or yield to force.

Iran's president adopted a defiant stance at the United Nations on Wednesday, delivering his first address since the outbreak of full-scale war with the United States and Israel, and declaring that Tehran would never “bend at the knee.” Masoud Pezeshkian charged Washington with committing "terrorism" over the assassination of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at the war's outset. During his remarks, he held aloft a photograph of the slain leader while maintaining that Iran had never been the aggressor in the conflict. The speech came a day after President Donald Trump told the UN he was considering whether to "annihilate" Iran, though Trump also praised the resumption of negotiations between Tehran and US representatives. Notably, Pezeshkian made no mention of these ongoing talks aimed at ending the stalled conflict, keeping his tone firm throughout. Also read: 'We do not seek security in insecurity of others': Iranian President defends military actions at UNGA "He must know that the resistance of the Iranian people will only increase in the face of sanctions, increased pressure, increased bullying. We will never bow our head or bend at the knee," Pezeshkian declared. The Iranian leader also addressed the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has intermittently blockaded since the war began, a move that has driven global energy prices sharply higher. He asserted that Tehran would not permit the waterway to be exploited for use against Iranian interests. "We cannot let some have free access and bolster their interests from the waterway, while at the same time using that waterway to impose their aggression upon us," he said. Also read: Trump revives India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor as India emerges central to West Asia’s future: What is it? The surge in fuel prices carries political risk for Trump, with rising costs threatening to undermine Republican control of Congress ahead of November's midterm elections. Uncertainty had surrounded whether Pezeshkian would even attend the UN gathering in Manhattan, as it remained unclear for some time whether the US would grant him a visa. Washington ultimately approved his entry, though several members of his delegation were denied visas.

Addressing the UN General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a defiant message to US President Donald Trump, declaring that Iran will never "bend at the knee" or yield to force.

‘Iran will never bend at the knee’: Pezeshkian hits back at Trump at UNGA

An Indian national was killed after torpedoes hit a vessel sailing off the east coast of Oman towards India. The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed the incident, saying that they were working closely with the Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew members, including 19 Indian nationals, who were on board the vessel. The vessel, which was carrying 28 crew members on board, has been identified as MV Cape Dao.In a post on X, the embassy wrote, “We are closely monitoring the attack on MV Cape Dao today while transiting toward India, and are in close coordination with Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew on board, including 19 Indian nationals.”“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one Indian national in this attack. Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Mission is coordinating with the RPSL and is in touch with the family of the deceased,” it added.<h2>MEA calls attacks ‘deeply worrisome’</h2>In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on the commercial vessel off the east coast of Oman.“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao earlier today off the east coast of Oman. Of the 20 Indian seafarers on board, 19 have been rescued, while 1 Indian national tragically lost his life. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities for early repatriation of the Indian seafarers. We thank the Omani authorities for their support," the MEA said in a statement.“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and enable early return of peace to the region. The targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region must be restored at the earliest,” the statement added.<h2>FSUI demands accountability, justice</h2>Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) expressed concern over the incident, demanding accountability, safe passage, and justice for Indian seafarers amid the tensions in and around the Strait of Hormuz.“Another Indian seafarer killed,” FSUI said in a post on X.The organisation identified the sailor as Suraj Yadav of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh. “Wiper Suraj Yadav of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, is dead after MV Cape Dao was attacked today while sailing toward India,” the post added.FSUI shared further details about the vessel and the attack. “28 crew on board, 20 of them Indian. Two torpedoes: • Port side C-deck (accommodation) • Port side hull (engine room),” it said.“Assurances mean nothing. Innocent civilian seafarers are being slaughtered in and around Hormuz,” FSUI added. “FSUI demands immediate accountability, safe passage, and justice for Suraj Yadav and every Indian seafarer still at risk.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another Indian seafarer killed. Wiper Suraj Yadav of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, is dead after MV Cape Dao was attacked today while sailing toward India. 28 crew on board, 20 of them Indian. Two torpedoes: • Port side C-deck (accommodation) • Port side hull (engine room) Assurances… <a href="https://t.co/AvrD2p1Cwd">pic.twitter.com/AvrD2p1Cwd</a>&mdash; FSUI (@FSUIINDIA) <a href="https://x.com/FSUIINDIA/status/2102741280329699459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>UK maritime agency says cargo vessel struck</h2>Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said that a cargo vessel was struck in Hormuz by an “unknown projectile” on Wednesday (Sep 23) that resulted in a fire and two casualties.“The Company Security Officer of a cargo vessel reports being struck by an unknown projectile. The vessel is on fire and adrift,” the agency said. “All crew have been evacuated with 2 casualties reported.”&nbsp;

An Indian seafarer was killed after MV Cape Dao was attacked by torpedoes near the Strait of Hormuz while sailing towards India, with 19 Indian nationals among the crew.

An Indian national was killed after torpedoes hit a vessel sailing off the east coast of Oman towards India. The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed the incident, saying that they were working closely with the Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew members, including 19 Indian nationals, who were on board the vessel. The vessel, which was carrying 28 crew members on board, has been identified as MV Cape Dao. In a post on X, the embassy wrote, “We are closely monitoring the attack on MV Cape Dao today while transiting toward India, and are in close coordination with Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew on board, including 19 Indian nationals.” “We are deeply saddened by the loss of one Indian national in this attack. Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Mission is coordinating with the RPSL and is in touch with the family of the deceased,” it added. MEA calls attacks ‘deeply worrisome’ In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on the commercial vessel off the east coast of Oman. “We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao earlier today off the east coast of Oman. Of the 20 Indian seafarers on board, 19 have been rescued, while 1 Indian national tragically lost his life. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities for early repatriation of the Indian seafarers. We thank the Omani authorities for their support," the MEA said in a statement. “The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and enable early return of peace to the region. The targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region must be restored at the earliest,” the statement added. FSUI demands accountability, justice Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) expressed concern over the incident, demanding accountability, safe passage, and justice for Indian seafarers amid the tensions in and around the Strait of Hormuz. “Another Indian seafarer killed,” FSUI said in a post on X. The organisation identified the sailor as Suraj Yadav of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh. “Wiper Suraj Yadav of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, is dead after MV Cape Dao was attacked today while sailing toward India,” the post added. FSUI shared further details about the vessel and the attack. “28 crew on board, 20 of them Indian. Two torpedoes: • Port side C-deck (accommodation) • Port side hull (engine room),” it said. “Assurances mean nothing. Innocent civilian seafarers are being slaughtered in and around Hormuz,” FSUI added. “FSUI demands immediate accountability, safe passage, and justice for Suraj Yadav and every Indian seafarer still at risk.”

An Indian seafarer was killed after MV Cape Dao was attacked by torpedoes near the Strait of Hormuz while sailing towards India, with 19 Indian nationals among the crew.

Indian seafarer killed after torpedoes hits vessel near Strait of Hormuz

&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington this week for a high-stakes three-day summit, as the two countries seek to stabilise ties strained by disputes over trade, Taiwan and the Iran war. Xi is scheduled to arrive in Washington on Wednesday (September 23), marking his first visit to the US capital in more than a decade. The meeting will also be the second interaction between Xi and Trump this year.The summit comes at a crucial time for both countries, with trade tensions, critical mineral supplies and geopolitical disputes expected to dominate discussions.<h2>Trade wars and reciprocal tariffs</h2>One of the key issues on the agenda will be the future of the US-China tariff truce, which is due to expire on November 10. The truce had paused a major trade war between the world's two largest economies, which had raised concerns over global supply chains as Washington and Beijing imposed tit-for-tat tariffs. Although the two sides have avoided imposing new tariffs for nearly a year, they have yet to reach a lasting trade agreement.Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng is currently in the US for talks with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, as Washington and Beijing attempt to make progress before the Trump-Xi meeting.<h2>Xi Jinping's Washington visit: Schedule</h2>Wednesday, September 23Xi is scheduled to arrive at Joint Base Andrews, outside Washington, DC. Trump is expected to personally welcome the Chinese president at the military airfield.Thursday, September 24Thursday is expected to be the main day for bilateral diplomatic discussions between Trump and Xi. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host a formal welcoming ceremony for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, across the South Lawn, State Floor and Rose Garden.According to an official White House press briefing, 479 military personnel representing all branches of the US Armed Forces will take part in the ceremony.The programme will include remarks by both leaders, a military salute and demonstrations. It will conclude with a military flyover involving a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors.A state dinner for Xi and Peng will be held in the East Room of the White House later in the evening.Friday, September 25On Friday morning, Trump and Melania Trump are scheduled to welcome Xi and Peng to the South Portico of the White House for private tea. The two couples will then travel to the National Archives in Washington, DC.The three-day state visit will conclude with Trump and Melania formally bidding farewell to Xi and Peng at the National Archives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping begins a three-day U.S. state visit to meet President Donald Trump in Washington. Discussions aim to stabilise relations, focus on trade tariffs, Taiwan, and geopolitics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington this week for a high-stakes three-day summit, as the two countries seek to stabilise ties strained by disputes over trade, Taiwan and the Iran war. Xi is scheduled to arrive in Washington on Wednesday (September 23), marking his first visit to the US capital in more than a decade. The meeting will also be the second interaction between Xi and Trump this year. The summit comes at a crucial time for both countries, with trade tensions, critical mineral supplies and geopolitical disputes expected to dominate discussions. Trade wars and reciprocal tariffs One of the key issues on the agenda will be the future of the US-China tariff truce, which is due to expire on November 10. The truce had paused a major trade war between the world's two largest economies, which had raised concerns over global supply chains as Washington and Beijing imposed tit-for-tat tariffs. Although the two sides have avoided imposing new tariffs for nearly a year, they have yet to reach a lasting trade agreement. Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng is currently in the US for talks with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, as Washington and Beijing attempt to make progress before the Trump-Xi meeting. Xi Jinping's Washington visit: Schedule Wednesday, September 23 Xi is scheduled to arrive at Joint Base Andrews, outside Washington, DC. Trump is expected to personally welcome the Chinese president at the military airfield. Thursday, September 24 Thursday is expected to be the main day for bilateral diplomatic discussions between Trump and Xi. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will host a formal welcoming ceremony for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, across the South Lawn, State Floor and Rose Garden. According to an official White House press briefing, 479 military personnel representing all branches of the US Armed Forces will take part in the ceremony. The programme will include remarks by both leaders, a military salute and demonstrations. It will conclude with a military flyover involving a B-2 Spirit and four F-22 Raptors. A state dinner for Xi and Peng will be held in the East Room of the White House later in the evening. Friday, September 25 On Friday morning, Trump and Melania Trump are scheduled to welcome Xi and Peng to the South Portico of the White House for private tea. The two couples will then travel to the National Archives in Washington, DC. The three-day state visit will conclude with Trump and Melania formally bidding farewell to Xi and Peng at the National Archives.

Chinese President Xi Jinping begins a three-day U.S. state visit to meet President Donald Trump in Washington. Discussions aim to stabilise relations, focus on trade tariffs, Taiwan, and geopolitics.

Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting 2026: Date, venue, schedule, agenda and key issues - All you need to know

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (Sep 23) said that he warned the European Union and NATO officials against facilitating or supporting Israeli and US military actions in Gaza and Iran in meetings with European Union High Representative Kaja Kallas and other EU counterparts. Calling the US-Israeli campaign “war crimes,” he threatened the allies of “severe long-term consequences”. Araghchi also said that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte should know by now that “groveling never satisfies a bully”.In a post on X, Araghchi wrote, “In meetings with @kajakallas and other EU counterparts, I warned of the severe long-term consequences of facilitating and supporting Israeli-U.S. war crimes, whether in Gaza or Iran.”“That major folly aside, @SecGenNATO should know by now that grovelling never satisfies a bully,” he added.His comments came in response to Rutte’s remarks on war in Iran. The NATO chief had said that more than 5,000 planes have taken off from European bases to support the US military operation Epic Fury against Iran since the strikes on February 28.&nbsp;“You could argue that it would have been impossible to do Operation Epic Fury without having Europe as a power projection platform for the US,” he had said. “5,000 planes have taken off from European bases in support of Epic Fury since February 28th this year.”<h2>Iran, US hold ‘constructive and promising’ talks</h2>Araghchi’s warning came as Washington and Tehran held their first known high-level talks in months on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday (Sep 22). US President Donald Trump said Iranian and American representatives met for three hours, with Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner taking part alongside Araghchi. Witkoff said mediators had “shuttled between the two sides throughout the day” and described the discussions as “constructive and promising”.Trump, however, struck a sharply different tone during his UN address, saying he was still weighing whether to reach a deal with Iran or “annihilate” the Islamic Republic.“I have a big decision to make – will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country?” Trump said.“Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again? Do I drive them into hell with no chance of survival?”<h2>Hormuz demands</h2>Iranian state media reported that Tehran had laid out conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade, payment of frozen Iranian assets and an end to the war on all resistance fronts.The talks come as Trump says there is “a lot of momentum” for a possible deal, while Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Wednesday.

Iran’s Araghchi warned the EU and NATO of “severe long-term consequences” over US-Israeli actions as Iran and the US held talks in New York amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday (Sep 23) said that he warned the European Union and NATO officials against facilitating or supporting Israeli and US military actions in Gaza and Iran in meetings with European Union High Representative Kaja Kallas and other EU counterparts. Calling the US-Israeli campaign “war crimes,” he threatened the allies of “severe long-term consequences”. Araghchi also said that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte should know by now that “groveling never satisfies a bully”. In a post on X, Araghchi wrote, “In meetings with @kajakallas and other EU counterparts, I warned of the severe long-term consequences of facilitating and supporting Israeli-U.S. war crimes, whether in Gaza or Iran.” “That major folly aside, @SecGenNATO should know by now that grovelling never satisfies a bully,” he added. His comments came in response to Rutte’s remarks on war in Iran. The NATO chief had said that more than 5,000 planes have taken off from European bases to support the US military operation Epic Fury against Iran since the strikes on February 28. “You could argue that it would have been impossible to do Operation Epic Fury without having Europe as a power projection platform for the US,” he had said. “5,000 planes have taken off from European bases in support of Epic Fury since February 28th this year.” Iran, US hold ‘constructive and promising’ talks Araghchi’s warning came as Washington and Tehran held their first known high-level talks in months on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday (Sep 22). US President Donald Trump said Iranian and American representatives met for three hours, with Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner taking part alongside Araghchi. Witkoff said mediators had “shuttled between the two sides throughout the day” and described the discussions as “constructive and promising”. Trump, however, struck a sharply different tone during his UN address, saying he was still weighing whether to reach a deal with Iran or “annihilate” the Islamic Republic. “I have a big decision to make – will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country?” Trump said. “Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again? Do I drive them into hell with no chance of survival?” Hormuz demands Iranian state media reported that Tehran had laid out conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade, payment of frozen Iranian assets and an end to the war on all resistance fronts. The talks come as Trump says there is “a lot of momentum” for a possible deal, while Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Wednesday.

Iran’s Araghchi warned the EU and NATO of “severe long-term consequences” over US-Israeli actions as Iran and the US held talks in New York amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

‘Severe long-term consequences’: Iran’s Araghchi warns EU, NATO against supporting US-Israeli military actions

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the United Nations General Assembly, asserting that Iran has no ambition to leverage its power for regional dominance, while defending the country's actions during its recent conflict with the United States and Israel. "We do not seek our security in the insecurity of others," Pezeshkian told delegates, framing Iran's military posture as strictly defensive rather than expansionist. He emphasised that Iran's defence systems exist specifically to deter aggression: "Our defensive systems have been built so that no one can think that bombing Iranian cities will go unanswered." He further stated that Iran would not seek outside permission to protect itself, saying, "In order to defend our country, we do not seek anyone's permission or approval."&nbsp;The Iranian leader described his nation as having withstood assaults from adversaries armed with sophisticated military technology. "Iran has never ever been an aggressor, has never started a war and has always shown her commitment to the negotiating table. They imposed the war on us, but we proved that we're not afraid of fighting."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-bend-at-the-knee-pezeshkian-hits-back-at-trump-at-unga-1790175284876">‘Iran will never bend at the knee’: Pezeshkian hits back at Trump at UNGA</a>&nbsp;Pezeshkian drew a sharp distinction between Iran's conduct during the conflict and that of its adversaries, insisting Tehran had avoided targeting civilians even as it retaliated. "We did not hit civilian populations," he said, while accusing opposing forces of striking non-military targets. "They came into surrounding territories and targeted our universities, our healthcare centres, our schools, our hospitals, our infrastructures, all of it against international law," he charged.&nbsp;Notably, as Pezeshkian began his address, a member of the US delegation was seen standing up, gathering his briefcase, removing his glasses, and exiting the assembly hall, a moment that quickly circulated on social media.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/trump-says-us-iran-talks-went-very-well-with-witkoff-kushner-1790156089559">Trump says US-Iran talks ‘went very well’ with Witkoff, Kushner</a>&nbsp;The Iranian president also cast his country as a victim of terrorism, condemning what he called unlawful American strikes. He referenced the killing of Iran's supreme leader, describing it as an assassination carried out "without any legal framework or reason." Pezeshkian additionally pointed to the bombing of a primary school in Minab, which occurred on the opening day of the war. "I come from an Iran where, in truth, they bombed a school," he said.&nbsp;Through his address, Pezeshkian sought to position Iran as a nation acting in self-defence against unprovoked aggression, while simultaneously appealing to the international community's sense of legal and moral accountability regarding the conduct of the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told the UN General Assembly that Iran seeks no regional dominance and acted strictly in self-defense during recent hostilities with the US and Israel. 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the United Nations General Assembly, asserting that Iran has no ambition to leverage its power for regional dominance, while defending the country's actions during its recent conflict with the United States and Israel. "We do not seek our security in the insecurity of others," Pezeshkian told delegates, framing Iran's military posture as strictly defensive rather than expansionist. He emphasised that Iran's defence systems exist specifically to deter aggression: "Our defensive systems have been built so that no one can think that bombing Iranian cities will go unanswered." He further stated that Iran would not seek outside permission to protect itself, saying, "In order to defend our country, we do not seek anyone's permission or approval." The Iranian leader described his nation as having withstood assaults from adversaries armed with sophisticated military technology. "Iran has never ever been an aggressor, has never started a war and has always shown her commitment to the negotiating table. They imposed the war on us, but we proved that we're not afraid of fighting." Also read: ‘Iran will never bend at the knee’: Pezeshkian hits back at Trump at UNGA Pezeshkian drew a sharp distinction between Iran's conduct during the conflict and that of its adversaries, insisting Tehran had avoided targeting civilians even as it retaliated. "We did not hit civilian populations," he said, while accusing opposing forces of striking non-military targets. "They came into surrounding territories and targeted our universities, our healthcare centres, our schools, our hospitals, our infrastructures, all of it against international law," he charged. Notably, as Pezeshkian began his address, a member of the US delegation was seen standing up, gathering his briefcase, removing his glasses, and exiting the assembly hall, a moment that quickly circulated on social media. Also read: Trump says US-Iran talks ‘went very well’ with Witkoff, Kushner The Iranian president also cast his country as a victim of terrorism, condemning what he called unlawful American strikes. He referenced the killing of Iran's supreme leader, describing it as an assassination carried out "without any legal framework or reason." Pezeshkian additionally pointed to the bombing of a primary school in Minab, which occurred on the opening day of the war. "I come from an Iran where, in truth, they bombed a school," he said. Through his address, Pezeshkian sought to position Iran as a nation acting in self-defence against unprovoked aggression, while simultaneously appealing to the international community's sense of legal and moral accountability regarding the conduct of the war.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told the UN General Assembly that Iran seeks no regional dominance and acted strictly in self-defense during recent hostilities with the US and Israel.

'We do not seek security in insecurity of others': Iranian President defends military actions at UNGA

US Justice Department lawyers defended President Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, arguing that the move was legally justified over concerns linked to national security and journalistic conduct.&nbsp;The Trump administration made the argument in a filing before a federal district court in Washington, DC. Reporters from the three news organisations had their White House press credentials, also known as hard passes, revoked, preventing them from accessing the White House grounds.&nbsp;“Access to the White House is a privilege, not a right,” Justice Department lawyers wrote.&nbsp;The administration argued that the ban does not violate the First Amendment, citing what it described as two “compelling reasons” for restricting access. These included enforcing “minimum standards of professionalism” among journalists and protecting classified information.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-demands-cec-gyanesh-kumar-s-arrest-calls-for-fresh-bengal-polls-with-old-voter-list-1790169827052">Mamata demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar's arrest, calls for fresh Bengal polls with old voter list</a><h3>White House cites national security concerns</h3>The Justice Department said the president expects journalists to follow basic reporting standards, including seeking comments before publishing reports.&nbsp;“The President believes basic journalistic standards require calling, asking for comment, and providing a reasonable opportunity for a response,” they said. “At a bare minimum, it is a significant violation of decorum to publish classified and sensitive national security information.”&nbsp;The department also submitted letters from the White House press office to the court. The letters, dated Tuesday, informed CNN, MS NOW and Politico that Trump had decided to revoke the hard passes of their journalists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-bans-cnn-ms-now-and-politico-from-white-house-over-fake-news-1789761825030">Trump bans CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House over ‘FAKE NEWS’</a>&nbsp;According to the letters, the outlets had “exhibited behaviour in violation of the standards of professionalism and decorum expected of those given access to the White House Complex, including by trafficking in verifiable falsehoods about national security and other issues, and publishing sensitive or classified information.”&nbsp;The White House has given the three organisations until 5 p.m. Friday to respond to the allegations.<h3>News outlets challenge Trump's decision</h3>The Justice Department's filing came ahead of a hearing scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. During the hearing, a judge will consider whether the White House should restore the media organisations’ credentials and access.&nbsp;CNN, MS NOW and Politico sued Trump and senior administration officials on Monday. The three organisations described the decision as a “direct assault on the First Amendment” and a “blatant violation of our most fundamental constitutional principles.”&nbsp;The legal challenge follows Trump’s announcement that the three outlets would be barred from the White House. He accused them of repeatedly publishing what he called “FAKE NEWS”.&nbsp;Trump announced the decision in a post on Truth Social and said the ban would take effect immediately. He also warned that “other Fake News Media Outlets to follow”.&nbsp;“I am proud to announce that, effective immediately, I am banning Fake News CNN, MSNOW... and Politico... from the White House as a result of their constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS!” Trump said.

The US Justice Department has defended President Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, citing national security and standards of professionalism and decorum.

US Justice Department lawyers defended President Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, arguing that the move was legally justified over concerns linked to national security and journalistic conduct. The Trump administration made the argument in a filing before a federal district court in Washington, DC. Reporters from the three news organisations had their White House press credentials, also known as hard passes, revoked, preventing them from accessing the White House grounds. “Access to the White House is a privilege, not a right,” Justice Department lawyers wrote. The administration argued that the ban does not violate the First Amendment, citing what it described as two “compelling reasons” for restricting access. These included enforcing “minimum standards of professionalism” among journalists and protecting classified information. Also Read: Mamata demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar's arrest, calls for fresh Bengal polls with old voter list White House cites national security concerns The Justice Department said the president expects journalists to follow basic reporting standards, including seeking comments before publishing reports. “The President believes basic journalistic standards require calling, asking for comment, and providing a reasonable opportunity for a response,” they said. “At a bare minimum, it is a significant violation of decorum to publish classified and sensitive national security information.” The department also submitted letters from the White House press office to the court. The letters, dated Tuesday, informed CNN, MS NOW and Politico that Trump had decided to revoke the hard passes of their journalists. Also Read: Trump bans CNN, MS NOW and Politico from White House over ‘FAKE NEWS’ According to the letters, the outlets had “exhibited behaviour in violation of the standards of professionalism and decorum expected of those given access to the White House Complex, including by trafficking in verifiable falsehoods about national security and other issues, and publishing sensitive or classified information.” The White House has given the three organisations until 5 p.m. Friday to respond to the allegations. News outlets challenge Trump's decision The Justice Department's filing came ahead of a hearing scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. During the hearing, a judge will consider whether the White House should restore the media organisations’ credentials and access. CNN, MS NOW and Politico sued Trump and senior administration officials on Monday. The three organisations described the decision as a “direct assault on the First Amendment” and a “blatant violation of our most fundamental constitutional principles.” The legal challenge follows Trump’s announcement that the three outlets would be barred from the White House. He accused them of repeatedly publishing what he called “FAKE NEWS”. Trump announced the decision in a post on Truth Social and said the ban would take effect immediately. He also warned that “other Fake News Media Outlets to follow”. “I am proud to announce that, effective immediately, I am banning Fake News CNN, MSNOW... and Politico... from the White House as a result of their constant 'reporting' FAKE NEWS!” Trump said.

The US Justice Department has defended Donald Trump’s decision to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, citing national security and standards of professionalism and decorum.

White House access is 'privilege': DOJ cites national security for Trump media ban

Extreme heat, linked to 'super El Niño,' in 2026 possibly threatens over 450,000 lives worldwide over the next six months, including nearly 16,000 people in India, according to a recent study. The researchers at the University of Chicago's Climate Impact Lab stated on Wednesday (September 23) that the number of extremely hot days is set to rise by 44 per cent, compared with normal years, according to a Reuters report on the study. The report added, estimating that the super El Niño could impact several people, killing as many as 451,000 individuals worldwide in the six months through February 2027. By the next year, the number of excess deaths could rise further if El Niño extends, especially in key areas of the Northern Hemisphere, including India and Pakistan, which are especially vulnerable during their summer months.<h3>Nigeria likely to see the highest toll</h3>Between September 2026 and February 2027, Nigeria is projected to see the highest toll from excess heat-related deaths, with an estimated 31,400 fatalities, followed by Indonesia at 19,300 and Sudan at 17,600. Across Africa's Sahel region, encompassing Niger, Chad, Nigeria and Sudan, an additional 66,800 deaths from extreme heat are expected to be witnessed in the next six months. Meanwhile, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia are together projected to record around 19,400 additional deaths, the study found. According to Climate Impact Lab, this year's El Niño serves as a "postcard from the future", offering a preview of temperatures that could become normal within the next few decades.Researchers have called for emergency response efforts to be concentrated on high-priority regions in order to curb heat-related mortality in the months ahead. El Niño has already caused widespread disruption globally this year — triggering heatwaves across Europe and the United States, disturbing monsoon patterns in India, intensifying wildfires, and causing floods in multiple regions. Active since June, the weather pattern is expected to persist into next year.&nbsp;

The report estimated that the super El Niño could impact several people, killing as many as 451,000 individuals worldwide in the six months through February 2027. 

Extreme heat, linked to 'super El Niño,' in 2026 possibly threatens over 450,000 lives worldwide over the next six months, including nearly 16,000 people in India, according to a recent study. The researchers at the University of Chicago's Climate Impact Lab stated on Wednesday (September 23) that the number of extremely hot days is set to rise by 44 per cent, compared with normal years, according to a Reuters report on the study. The report added, estimating that the super El Niño could impact several people, killing as many as 451,000 individuals worldwide in the six months through February 2027. By the next year, the number of excess deaths could rise further if El Niño extends, especially in key areas of the Northern Hemisphere, including India and Pakistan, which are especially vulnerable during their summer months. Nigeria likely to see the highest toll Between September 2026 and February 2027, Nigeria is projected to see the highest toll from excess heat-related deaths, with an estimated 31,400 fatalities, followed by Indonesia at 19,300 and Sudan at 17,600. Across Africa's Sahel region, encompassing Niger, Chad, Nigeria and Sudan, an additional 66,800 deaths from extreme heat are expected to be witnessed in the next six months. Meanwhile, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia are together projected to record around 19,400 additional deaths, the study found. According to Climate Impact Lab, this year's El Niño serves as a "postcard from the future", offering a preview of temperatures that could become normal within the next few decades. Researchers have called for emergency response efforts to be concentrated on high-priority regions in order to curb heat-related mortality in the months ahead. El Niño has already caused widespread disruption globally this year — triggering heatwaves across Europe and the United States, disturbing monsoon patterns in India, intensifying wildfires, and causing floods in multiple regions. Active since June, the weather pattern is expected to persist into next year.

The report estimated that the super El Niño could impact several people, killing as many as 451,000 individuals worldwide in the six months through February 2027.&nbsp;

Super El Niño could kill 451,000 worldwide by February 2027, nearly 16,000 lives at risk in India: Study

A man from Karnataka’s Udupi district was allegedly murdered in the UAE in July, with his body later found cut into nine pieces inside the boot of a car, his brother said on Tuesday (Sep 22).The victim, identified as Alwin, was working in the UAE and last spoke to his family around July 20, according to a report by The Times of India. Soon after, messages were sent from his phone claiming that he was unwell and resting.However, Alwin’s family became suspicious because he usually communicated through voice notes and rarely sent typed messages, his elder brother said.“When we questioned him and asked him to make a call, there was no response after that,” the brother said, according to TOI.<h2>Family raises alarm after losing contact</h2>The family then contacted one of Alwin’s classmates in Sharjah. The classmate visited the apartment provided to Alwin by his company, where a watchman allegedly said that he had left for India.The company’s human resources department also initially told the family that Alwin had travelled to India. However, his family said he had not returned to India.The family subsequently checked his passport records and found that Alwin was still in the UAE. A missing-person complaint was then filed in Sharjah.<h2>Body found inside abandoned car</h2>According to Alwin’s brother, his body was found on August 12 inside the boot of his Toyota car. The vehicle had reportedly been abandoned on a road leading towards Oman.The family alleged that Alwin had been stabbed in the chest and that his body was cut into nine pieces before being placed inside two bags.His identity was confirmed through DNA testing using a sample from his son, who works with Nestlé, the brother said.The family has since received Alwin’s death certificate but is still waiting for a copy of the FIR, according to his brother.The circumstances surrounding the alleged murder and the investigation in the UAE remain unclear based on the information available in the TOI report.

Alwin, a Karnataka man working in the UAE, was murdered in July. His body was found cut into nine pieces inside his car's boot in Sharjah following a missing-person report.

A man from Karnataka’s Udupi district was allegedly murdered in the UAE in July, with his body later found cut into nine pieces inside the boot of a car, his brother said on Tuesday (Sep 22). The victim, identified as Alwin, was working in the UAE and last spoke to his family around July 20, according to a report by The Times of India. Soon after, messages were sent from his phone claiming that he was unwell and resting. However, Alwin’s family became suspicious because he usually communicated through voice notes and rarely sent typed messages, his elder brother said. “When we questioned him and asked him to make a call, there was no response after that,” the brother said, according to TOI. Family raises alarm after losing contact The family then contacted one of Alwin’s classmates in Sharjah. The classmate visited the apartment provided to Alwin by his company, where a watchman allegedly said that he had left for India. The company’s human resources department also initially told the family that Alwin had travelled to India. However, his family said he had not returned to India. The family subsequently checked his passport records and found that Alwin was still in the UAE. A missing-person complaint was then filed in Sharjah. Body found inside abandoned car According to Alwin’s brother, his body was found on August 12 inside the boot of his Toyota car. The vehicle had reportedly been abandoned on a road leading towards Oman. The family alleged that Alwin had been stabbed in the chest and that his body was cut into nine pieces before being placed inside two bags. His identity was confirmed through DNA testing using a sample from his son, who works with Nestlé, the brother said. The family has since received Alwin’s death certificate but is still waiting for a copy of the FIR, according to his brother. The circumstances surrounding the alleged murder and the investigation in the UAE remain unclear based on the information available in the TOI report.

Alwin, a Karnataka man working in the UAE, was murdered in July. His body was found cut into nine pieces inside his car's boot in Sharjah following a missing-person report.

UAE horror: Karnataka man goes missing, body found in 9 pieces inside car

India on Wednesday strongly rejected references to Jammu and Kashmir made by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group, saying the group would be “better advised to counsel Pakistan” instead of offering it a platform.&nbsp;The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement saying the grouping has no locus standi to comment on matters that are strictly internal to India. It also described the OIC’s references to Jammu and Kashmir as “unwarranted and factually incorrect”.“The OIC has no locus standi to pronounce on matters that are strictly internal to India,” the MEA said, reiterating that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are “integral and inalienable” parts of India.&nbsp;The statement came after the OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir met on the sidelines of the ongoing 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-on-nations-to-quit-rogue-and-out-of-control-international-criminal-court-rips-un-1790102584297">Trump calls on nations to quit ‘rogue’ and ‘out-of-control’ International Criminal Court, rips UN</a><h2>Endorsement of propaganda raises questions on OIC’s credibility: MEA&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The MEA said repeated endorsement of what it called “politically motivated propaganda” raised questions about the credibility of the OIC. “Repeated endorsement of such motivated narratives only raises serious questions on the credibility of OIC,” it said.&nbsp;India also rejected what it described as attempts to alter the status of Jammu and Kashmir through repeated references at international forums.&nbsp;The OIC Contact Group comprises Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Niger. The group met in New York on Tuesday and reaffirmed its support for what it described as the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strike-a-deal-or-drive-iran-into-hell-trump-issues-fresh-warning-to-tehran-at-unga-1790090594288">‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA</a><h2>‘Better if OIC counsels Pakistan instead’</h2>&nbsp;New Delhi also directly hit out at Pakistan, accusing it of using the OIC platform to push “fabricated and motivated propaganda”.“Instead of offering a platform to Pakistan to peddle its fabricated and motivated propaganda, OIC will be better advised to counsel Pakistan,” the MEA said.&nbsp;India accused Pakistan of having a “well-documented record of supporting and sponsoring terrorism” and called on Islamabad to address the continuing threat of terrorism emanating from territories under its control.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-stand-by-its-security-commitments-to-saudi-arabia-says-marco-rubio-1790084064717">‘US will stand by its security commitments to Saudi Arabia,’ says Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the OIC meeting and urged members to maintain a unified position on Jammu and Kashmir at the UN and other international forums. He called for the reversal of measures taken by India since August 5, 2019, and sought the release of political prisoners and access for international observers.&nbsp;The OIC secretary-general, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, chaired the meeting.&nbsp;India’s remarks also came after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan referred to the Kashmir issue during his address to the UN General Assembly.

The Ministry of External Affairs said repeated endorsement of “politically motivated propaganda” raised questions about the credibility of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. New Delhi also directly hit out at Pakistan, accusing it of using the OIC platform to push fabricated propaganda.

India on Wednesday strongly rejected references to Jammu and Kashmir made by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group, saying the group would be “better advised to counsel Pakistan” instead of offering it a platform. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement saying the grouping has no locus standi to comment on matters that are strictly internal to India. It also described the OIC’s references to Jammu and Kashmir as “unwarranted and factually incorrect”. “The OIC has no locus standi to pronounce on matters that are strictly internal to India,” the MEA said, reiterating that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are “integral and inalienable” parts of India. The statement came after the OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir met on the sidelines of the ongoing 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Also Read: Trump calls on nations to quit ‘rogue’ and ‘out-of-control’ International Criminal Court, rips UN Endorsement of propaganda raises questions on OIC’s credibility: MEA The MEA said repeated endorsement of what it called “politically motivated propaganda” raised questions about the credibility of the OIC. “Repeated endorsement of such motivated narratives only raises serious questions on the credibility of OIC,” it said. India also rejected what it described as attempts to alter the status of Jammu and Kashmir through repeated references at international forums. The OIC Contact Group comprises Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Niger. The group met in New York on Tuesday and reaffirmed its support for what it described as the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. Also Read: ‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA ‘Better if OIC counsels Pakistan instead’ New Delhi also directly hit out at Pakistan, accusing it of using the OIC platform to push “fabricated and motivated propaganda”. “Instead of offering a platform to Pakistan to peddle its fabricated and motivated propaganda, OIC will be better advised to counsel Pakistan,” the MEA said. India accused Pakistan of having a “well-documented record of supporting and sponsoring terrorism” and called on Islamabad to address the continuing threat of terrorism emanating from territories under its control. Also Read: ‘US will stand by its security commitments to Saudi Arabia,’ says Marco Rubio Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the OIC meeting and urged members to maintain a unified position on Jammu and Kashmir at the UN and other international forums. He called for the reversal of measures taken by India since August 5, 2019, and sought the release of political prisoners and access for international observers. The OIC secretary-general, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, chaired the meeting. India’s remarks also came after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan referred to the Kashmir issue during his address to the UN General Assembly.

The Ministry of External Affairs said repeated endorsement of “politically motivated propaganda” raised questions about the credibility of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. New Delhi also directly hit out at Pakistan, accusing it of using the OIC platform to push fabricated propaganda.

‘Unwarranted, factually incorrect, no locus standi’: India hits back at OIC over Kashmir remarks

Yemen’s Saudi-backed government forces claimed to have taken full control of strategic Mount Qarfan in the western governorate of Taiz. The site was seized during a war with Iran-aligned Houthi fighters with the assistance of local fighters on Tuesday, the Yemen Armed Forces Media Centre said in a statement. Major General Abdulaziz al-Majidi, the chief of staff for the Taiz military axis, stated that troops engaged in “fierce battles” with Houthi rebels, and claimed the lives of five Houthi fighters, wounding 20 and achieving the “restoration of control” of the mountain. By capturing Mount Qarfan, Yemen's government forces would gain a strong tactical advantage, commanding both firepower and surveillance over the valleys stretching between the ash-Shamaytaun and al-Waziiya districts in the southern Taiz governorate. The Houthis have not yet responded to the government's claim. These clashes are unfolding against the backdrop of intensifying fighting across Yemen, fuelled further by rising regional tensions stemming from the US-Israel conflict with Iran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-heads-to-washington-for-trump-talks-trade-ai-taiwan-and-iran-on-the-agenda-1790164264702">Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda</a><h3>Houthis' control over Yemen's Red Sea coastline</h3>Earlier this month, the Houthis seized control of Yemen's Red Sea coastline, including the port city of Mocha, and have since pushed to advance into the Kahboub Mountains spanning Taiz and Lahj governorates. Should they gain control of these strategically important heights, which overlook the Bab al-Mandeb strait and Mayyun Island in the Red Sea, the Houthis would be positioned to cut off the coast entirely from the remaining areas still under government control in the south.&nbsp;“The mountains are the natural wall that protects the Houthis’ rear on the coast. Controlling them would cut the coast off from the government-held south and place direct pressure on Lahj and, in the longer term, Aden,” Al Jazeera quoted Faozi Al-Goidi, a visiting fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs as saying.

The Houthis have not yet responded to the government's claim. These clashes are unfolding against the backdrop of intensifying fighting across Yemen, fuelled further by rising regional tensions stemming from the US-Israel conflict with Iran.

Yemen’s Saudi-backed government forces claimed to have taken full control of strategic Mount Qarfan in the western governorate of Taiz. The site was seized during a war with Iran-aligned Houthi fighters with the assistance of local fighters on Tuesday, the Yemen Armed Forces Media Centre said in a statement. Major General Abdulaziz al-Majidi, the chief of staff for the Taiz military axis, stated that troops engaged in “fierce battles” with Houthi rebels, and claimed the lives of five Houthi fighters, wounding 20 and achieving the “restoration of control” of the mountain. By capturing Mount Qarfan, Yemen's government forces would gain a strong tactical advantage, commanding both firepower and surveillance over the valleys stretching between the ash-Shamaytaun and al-Waziiya districts in the southern Taiz governorate. The Houthis have not yet responded to the government's claim. These clashes are unfolding against the backdrop of intensifying fighting across Yemen, fuelled further by rising regional tensions stemming from the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Also read: Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda Houthis' control over Yemen's Red Sea coastline Earlier this month, the Houthis seized control of Yemen's Red Sea coastline, including the port city of Mocha, and have since pushed to advance into the Kahboub Mountains spanning Taiz and Lahj governorates. Should they gain control of these strategically important heights, which overlook the Bab al-Mandeb strait and Mayyun Island in the Red Sea, the Houthis would be positioned to cut off the coast entirely from the remaining areas still under government control in the south. “The mountains are the natural wall that protects the Houthis’ rear on the coast. Controlling them would cut the coast off from the government-held south and place direct pressure on Lahj and, in the longer term, Aden,” Al Jazeera quoted Faozi Al-Goidi, a visiting fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs as saying.

The Houthis have not yet responded to the government's claim. These clashes are unfolding against the backdrop of intensifying fighting across Yemen, fuelled further by rising regional tensions stemming from the US-Israel conflict with Iran.

Yemen’s Saudi-backed government forces claim full control of strategic 'Mount Qarfan' in Taiz

Vinay Malhotra, Head of Strategic Global Partnerships at VFS Technologies, said that AI have helped significantly with compliance in documentation and tourism by automating repetitive tasks. He said that while people are using AI to fudge the system, VFS Technologies was using AI to tackle synthetic documentation and deepfakes.&nbsp;Vinay said VFS had recently introduced IDP ( Intelligent Document Processing), which uses Generative AI to handle the high volumes of supporting documents required for visa applications more efficiently and consistently. The IDP solution was created in collaboration with the Australian Embassy, and it operates under strict guardrails to maintain security and trust.“We recently created a system called IDP, or intelligent document processing. What this system can do is, if you submit your passport application and you’ve tampered with the passport, the system can detect that something is wrong with the passport. If your flights and hotel details do not match, or there is a mismatch with an application, it will bring that out,” he said.Vinay also described VAYD, “Visa At Your Doorstep,” which brings visa-application services to homes, offices, hotels, and other locations using portable equipment described as a suitcase weighing 10–12 kilos.The service is positioned for large groups, corporate movements, MICE travellers, weddings, medical patients, and people in far-flung areas. VFS said almost 20 governments approve the facility in India and that it has coverage in almost 22 cities in India.VFS said trained professionals can complete the end-to-end application process in 30 minutes, including documentation handling, biometrics, a live photograph, and digital signatures. Data is transferred online to the relevant client government; visa approval remains the government’s prerogative. The service can process a whole family or other large group in one visit. It is available online and is mostly sold to customers by travel agents. Customers may alternatively use visa centres or optional premium services.

Vinay describes how VFS Technologies is using generative AI to detect tampered passports, document mismatches and synthetic documentation in visa applications. 

Vinay Malhotra, Head of Strategic Global Partnerships at VFS Technologies, said that AI have helped significantly with compliance in documentation and tourism by automating repetitive tasks. He said that while people are using AI to fudge the system, VFS Technologies was using AI to tackle synthetic documentation and deepfakes. Vinay said VFS had recently introduced IDP ( Intelligent Document Processing), which uses Generative AI to handle the high volumes of supporting documents required for visa applications more efficiently and consistently. The IDP solution was created in collaboration with the Australian Embassy, and it operates under strict guardrails to maintain security and trust. “We recently created a system called IDP, or intelligent document processing. What this system can do is, if you submit your passport application and you’ve tampered with the passport, the system can detect that something is wrong with the passport. If your flights and hotel details do not match, or there is a mismatch with an application, it will bring that out,” he said. Vinay also described VAYD, “Visa At Your Doorstep,” which brings visa-application services to homes, offices, hotels, and other locations using portable equipment described as a suitcase weighing 10–12 kilos. The service is positioned for large groups, corporate movements, MICE travellers, weddings, medical patients, and people in far-flung areas. VFS said almost 20 governments approve the facility in India and that it has coverage in almost 22 cities in India. VFS said trained professionals can complete the end-to-end application process in 30 minutes, including documentation handling, biometrics, a live photograph, and digital signatures. Data is transferred online to the relevant client government; visa approval remains the government’s prerogative. The service can process a whole family or other large group in one visit. It is available online and is mostly sold to customers by travel agents. Customers may alternatively use visa centres or optional premium services.

Vinay describes how VFS Technologies is using generative AI to detect tampered passports, document mismatches and synthetic documentation in visa applications.&nbsp;

AI helped with documentation, fraud prevention: Vinay Malhotra of VFS technologies

India has highlighted how Pakistan armed and trained the terrorists who forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave their homes in 1990 and later killed Kashmiris of every faith, in a sharp right of reply at the UN Human Rights Council.&nbsp;Kshitij Tyagi, Indian diplomat at India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, said Pakistan was in no position to raise Jammu and Kashmir after decades of sponsoring cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;“This Council does not need Pakistan to explain it. It happened in 1990, to the Kashmiri Pandits, driven from their homes by terrorists Pakistan armed, trained, and sent across the border,” he said. “Those same terrorists have since killed Kashmiris of every faith, many of them Muslim. The State that sponsored them is now asking this Council for an inquiry. The irony will not be lost on this Council.”The remarks came as Pakistan again raised Kashmir at the council’s 60th session. India restated its core position: “Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The only part of Jammu and Kashmir under foreign occupation is the part Pakistan holds, which we again call upon it to vacate.”&nbsp;The 1990 exodus remains one of the biggest crises that the Kashmir Valley faced. Pakistan-backed Hizbul Mujahideen targeted killings of prominent Hindus began in 1989. Tens of thousands of Pandits, a small Hindu minority that had lived in the Valley for centuries, fled within months. Community estimates put those killed in the hundreds; most of the community has not returned. Terrorism in the valley subsequently claimed thousands of Muslim lives as well.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-heads-to-washington-for-trump-talks-trade-ai-taiwan-and-iran-on-the-agenda-1790164264702">Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda</a>&nbsp;Tyagi also pointed to a deteriorating situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, citing reports of civilian deaths since June, student arrests in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and restrictions on food and medicine. “If any delegation in this room meets every objective criterion for this Council’s scrutiny, it is Pakistan,” he said.&nbsp;On minorities, he drew a contrast. India, he noted, has one of the world’s largest Muslim populations, with minorities voting, legislating, sitting on the Supreme Court and leading institutions. In Pakistan, he said, Hindu, Sikh and Christian communities have shrunk since 1947; daughters are abducted and forcibly converted; blasphemy laws hang over minority households; and Shias, Ahmadis, Ismailis and Hazaras face systemic attack. “A State with that record is in no position to lecture anyone on minorities.”&nbsp;Pakistan, he added, would “better serve its people by focusing on development, rather than by coveting territory of others or exporting terror,” because neither that nor “theatrics in the Council” would repay the loans on which its economy depends.

India’s Kshitij Tyagi hit back at Pakistan over arming and training terrorists who drove Kashmiri Pandits from their homes in 1990, while calling on Islamabad to vacate PoK.

India has highlighted how Pakistan armed and trained the terrorists who forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave their homes in 1990 and later killed Kashmiris of every faith, in a sharp right of reply at the UN Human Rights Council. Kshitij Tyagi, Indian diplomat at India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, said Pakistan was in no position to raise Jammu and Kashmir after decades of sponsoring cross-border terrorism. “This Council does not need Pakistan to explain it. It happened in 1990, to the Kashmiri Pandits, driven from their homes by terrorists Pakistan armed, trained, and sent across the border,” he said. “Those same terrorists have since killed Kashmiris of every faith, many of them Muslim. The State that sponsored them is now asking this Council for an inquiry. The irony will not be lost on this Council.” The remarks came as Pakistan again raised Kashmir at the council’s 60th session. India restated its core position: “Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The only part of Jammu and Kashmir under foreign occupation is the part Pakistan holds, which we again call upon it to vacate.” The 1990 exodus remains one of the biggest crises that the Kashmir Valley faced. Pakistan-backed Hizbul Mujahideen targeted killings of prominent Hindus began in 1989. Tens of thousands of Pandits, a small Hindu minority that had lived in the Valley for centuries, fled within months. Community estimates put those killed in the hundreds; most of the community has not returned. Terrorism in the valley subsequently claimed thousands of Muslim lives as well. Also Read: Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda Tyagi also pointed to a deteriorating situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, citing reports of civilian deaths since June, student arrests in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and restrictions on food and medicine. “If any delegation in this room meets every objective criterion for this Council’s scrutiny, it is Pakistan,” he said. On minorities, he drew a contrast. India, he noted, has one of the world’s largest Muslim populations, with minorities voting, legislating, sitting on the Supreme Court and leading institutions. In Pakistan, he said, Hindu, Sikh and Christian communities have shrunk since 1947; daughters are abducted and forcibly converted; blasphemy laws hang over minority households; and Shias, Ahmadis, Ismailis and Hazaras face systemic attack. “A State with that record is in no position to lecture anyone on minorities.” Pakistan, he added, would “better serve its people by focusing on development, rather than by coveting territory of others or exporting terror,” because neither that nor “theatrics in the Council” would repay the loans on which its economy depends.

India’s Kshitij Tyagi hit back at Pakistan over arming and training terrorists who drove Kashmiri Pandits from their homes in 1990, while calling on Islamabad to vacate PoK.

India at UN: Pakistan trained the terrorists who forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave the valley

The UK has announced to create an agency to fight against fake information coming from adversaries such as Russia and amplified by artificial intelligence, to help "separate fact from fiction", Britain's defence minister confirmed Wednesday (September 23). Additionally, Prime Minister Andy Burnham also announced plans for the new National Centre for Information Defence. His announcement came while speaking at the UN gathering of world leaders on Tuesday. "A world where the public finds it hard to separate fact from fiction, propaganda from reality, is a dangerous place for a democracy to be," Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said. He added that the new centre will "mobilise trusted voices across civil society." "In recent years we have seen an industrial-scale assault by hostile actors on the information environment in the UK and that of many of our allies," said Burnham. "Russian agencies have used every means at their disposal to spread lies and disinformation and prey on people's fears," he added. The PM also accused Moscow of attempting to interfere with Britain's 2019 general elections.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-heads-to-washington-for-trump-talks-trade-ai-taiwan-and-iran-on-the-agenda-1790164264702">Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda</a><h3>Russia suspected of meddling</h3>During the divisive 2016 Brexit referendum, Russia was suspected of meddling in UK politics, resulting in the previous Conservative government facing criticism for failing to probe into the allegations. Burnham further alleged that Moscow had been amplifying "far-right narratives" and fuelling unrest and tensions following a string of disturbing incidents. Having taken over as Labour Party leader and prime minister earlier this summer, Burnham cautioned that AI would only intensify the threat of disinformation and cyberattacks, adding to growing pressure to regulate the rapidly advancing technology. "Today I am tasking our security chiefs to begin work on a new National Centre for Information Defence, to detect, attribute and disrupt these kinds of hostile state information attacks." "As more elections approach across Europe, more nations are grappling with these issues," the UK leader added. Addressing the UN General Assembly, Burnham also said the UK intends to spearhead international efforts to develop global standards for AI. He further revealed a new AI-focused defence partnership with Washington aimed at identifying cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham also announced plans for the new National Centre for Information Defence. His announcement came while speaking at the UN gathering of world leaders on Tuesday.

The UK has announced to create an agency to fight against fake information coming from adversaries such as Russia and amplified by artificial intelligence, to help "separate fact from fiction", Britain's defence minister confirmed Wednesday (September 23). Additionally, Prime Minister Andy Burnham also announced plans for the new National Centre for Information Defence. His announcement came while speaking at the UN gathering of world leaders on Tuesday. "A world where the public finds it hard to separate fact from fiction, propaganda from reality, is a dangerous place for a democracy to be," Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said. He added that the new centre will "mobilise trusted voices across civil society." "In recent years we have seen an industrial-scale assault by hostile actors on the information environment in the UK and that of many of our allies," said Burnham. "Russian agencies have used every means at their disposal to spread lies and disinformation and prey on people's fears," he added. The PM also accused Moscow of attempting to interfere with Britain's 2019 general elections. Also read: Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda Russia suspected of meddling During the divisive 2016 Brexit referendum, Russia was suspected of meddling in UK politics, resulting in the previous Conservative government facing criticism for failing to probe into the allegations. Burnham further alleged that Moscow had been amplifying "far-right narratives" and fuelling unrest and tensions following a string of disturbing incidents. Having taken over as Labour Party leader and prime minister earlier this summer, Burnham cautioned that AI would only intensify the threat of disinformation and cyberattacks, adding to growing pressure to regulate the rapidly advancing technology. "Today I am tasking our security chiefs to begin work on a new National Centre for Information Defence, to detect, attribute and disrupt these kinds of hostile state information attacks." "As more elections approach across Europe, more nations are grappling with these issues," the UK leader added. Addressing the UN General Assembly, Burnham also said the UK intends to spearhead international efforts to develop global standards for AI. He further revealed a new AI-focused defence partnership with Washington aimed at identifying cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham also announced plans for the new National Centre for Information Defence. His announcement came while speaking at the UN gathering of world leaders on Tuesday.

UK launches new agency to combat AI-amplified disinformation from Russia

Iranian carriers were compelled to cancel a number of international flights on Wednesday (Sep 23) following Washington's decision to intensify sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector, part of a broader push to weaken the country's economy. A Tehran-based travel agent told news agency AFP that flights bound for Baghdad, Muscat, Qatar, Georgia, and Azerbaijan had been halted, though several other routes including those to China continued to operate.&nbsp;US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the fresh measures on Monday, following through on an earlier pledge to unleash an "economic D-Day" on Iran, aimed at pressuring Tehran after nearly seven months of conflict. Iran's aviation industry has long been under sanctions, and it remains uncertain how significant the new restrictions' impact will be, or whether other nations will enforce them.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strike-a-deal-or-drive-iran-into-hell-trump-issues-fresh-warning-to-tehran-at-unga-1790090594288">‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA</a>&nbsp;Despite the sanctions taking hold Wednesday (Sep 23), flight-tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed a Mahan Air flight operated by one of Iran's largest airlines successfully landing in Guangzhou, China. Beijing had stated Tuesday that it considers the US sanctions unlawful and opposes them. A separate flight to Shanghai was also listed for departure, per Tehran's international airport.&nbsp;Some flights to Istanbul remained on schedule, although others were called off, according to the Tehran travel agent, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The situation is unstable, and we are no longer selling tickets for the time being for fear of cancellations," the agent said.&nbsp;A Mahan Air flight from Kabul was also due to arrive in Tehran around midday, while smaller carriers like Varesh continued offering connections to Turkey and Armenia, according to the airport's website. Flights to Najaf, Iraq, and Dubai, UAE, remained scheduled as well.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-must-stop-arming-houthis-in-yemen-say-g7-nations-ahead-of-un-general-assembly-1790080270883">‘Iran must stop arming Houthis in Yemen,’ say G7 nations ahead of UN General Assembly</a>&nbsp;Bessent had vowed Monday to dismantle Iranian airlines entirely, warning other nations against cooperating with them: fueling, servicing, or selling tickets for Iranian flights could result in exclusion from the dollar-based financial system.&nbsp;These new restrictions are expected to further hinder Iranians' ability to travel internationally or return home. Iranian state media echoed the disruptions, with the Tasnim news agency reporting Tuesday that airports in Baghdad and Muscat would no longer accept Iranian flights, though routes like Istanbul would continue unaffected for now. Tasnim added that aviation officials were exploring rerouting Baghdad-bound flights to Najaf, a key pilgrimage destination for Iranians.&nbsp;In Iraq, government sources told AFP that Baghdad intends to comply with the US sanctions, despite no formal public announcement. This has alarmed Iraqi travel agents, particularly in Najaf, home to a major Shia shrine, where officials say most local travel businesses rely heavily on flight bookings to Iran. Agencies reported a surge of anxious clients inquiring about alternatives, including longer overland routes.

Iranian airlines have been forced to cancel key international flights to regional hubs like Baghdad and Muscat after new US aviation sanctions took effect, disrupting air travel across West Asia.

Iranian carriers were compelled to cancel a number of international flights on Wednesday (Sep 23) following Washington's decision to intensify sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector, part of a broader push to weaken the country's economy. A Tehran-based travel agent told news agency AFP that flights bound for Baghdad, Muscat, Qatar, Georgia, and Azerbaijan had been halted, though several other routes including those to China continued to operate. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the fresh measures on Monday, following through on an earlier pledge to unleash an "economic D-Day" on Iran, aimed at pressuring Tehran after nearly seven months of conflict. Iran's aviation industry has long been under sanctions, and it remains uncertain how significant the new restrictions' impact will be, or whether other nations will enforce them. Also read: ‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA Despite the sanctions taking hold Wednesday (Sep 23), flight-tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed a Mahan Air flight operated by one of Iran's largest airlines successfully landing in Guangzhou, China. Beijing had stated Tuesday that it considers the US sanctions unlawful and opposes them. A separate flight to Shanghai was also listed for departure, per Tehran's international airport. Some flights to Istanbul remained on schedule, although others were called off, according to the Tehran travel agent, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The situation is unstable, and we are no longer selling tickets for the time being for fear of cancellations," the agent said. A Mahan Air flight from Kabul was also due to arrive in Tehran around midday, while smaller carriers like Varesh continued offering connections to Turkey and Armenia, according to the airport's website. Flights to Najaf, Iraq, and Dubai, UAE, remained scheduled as well. Also read: ‘Iran must stop arming Houthis in Yemen,’ say G7 nations ahead of UN General Assembly Bessent had vowed Monday to dismantle Iranian airlines entirely, warning other nations against cooperating with them: fueling, servicing, or selling tickets for Iranian flights could result in exclusion from the dollar-based financial system. These new restrictions are expected to further hinder Iranians' ability to travel internationally or return home. Iranian state media echoed the disruptions, with the Tasnim news agency reporting Tuesday that airports in Baghdad and Muscat would no longer accept Iranian flights, though routes like Istanbul would continue unaffected for now. Tasnim added that aviation officials were exploring rerouting Baghdad-bound flights to Najaf, a key pilgrimage destination for Iranians. In Iraq, government sources told AFP that Baghdad intends to comply with the US sanctions, despite no formal public announcement. This has alarmed Iraqi travel agents, particularly in Najaf, home to a major Shia shrine, where officials say most local travel businesses rely heavily on flight bookings to Iran. Agencies reported a surge of anxious clients inquiring about alternatives, including longer overland routes.

Iranian airlines have been forced to cancel key international flights to regional hubs like Baghdad and Muscat after new US aviation sanctions took effect, disrupting air travel across West Asia.

Iranian airlines cancel international flights as US aviation sanctions take effect

Marine Tondelier, leader of France's Green party and a candidate in the 2027 presidential race, announced Wednesday (Sep 23) that she has become a mother again, delivering a baby boy while continuing her campaign for the nation's highest office. The 40-year-old politician made history as the first French political candidate to campaign through pregnancy. She has said she hopes her experience will draw greater attention to issues surrounding infertility and motherhood in public discourse.&nbsp;Her son, named Leon, was born on September 18 in the northern city of Lens. Tondelier told news agency AFP that she and her family chose to keep the news out of the public eye for several days following the birth. Notably, the delivery came just hours after she attended a significant gathering at the Elysee Palace, where President Emmanuel Macron cautioned French political leaders about potential Russian hybrid warfare threats.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Et puis, il y a eu Léon. 💚 Léon est né le vendredi 18 septembre 2026 à Lens. Et tout le monde va très bien ! (Je précise que lorsque nous avons choisi ce prénom il y a longtemps, on ne savait rien de la venue du pape en France ;) J’avoue, on a profité de son arrivée un peu en… <a href="https://t.co/TRfzoYa5lv">pic.twitter.com/TRfzoYa5lv</a>&mdash; Marine Tondelier (@marinetondelier) <a href="https://x.com/marinetondelier/status/2102633271485972523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Speaking to AFP, Tondelier described the birth as going smoothly and said she would need to adjust her working style as she navigates the demands of a presidential run alongside caring for a newborn with her child's wellbeing as her top priority.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-modi-meet-in-france-13-major-deals-signed-including-defence-upi-wion-decodes-1781462118720">Macron, Modi meet in France: 13 major deals signed including defence, UPI | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;Tondelier is already a mother to a seven-year-old son. Her candidacy for the Greens was formally confirmed on Monday, though the party has scheduled a decision for December on whether to continue backing her or shift support to another candidate from the left.&nbsp;Current polling places Tondelier, who campaigns under the slogan “another Marine is possible”, a nod to far-right leader Marine Le Pen, well below five per cent support ahead of the first voting round.&nbsp;Despite the recent birth, she intends to join a party video call Wednesday and has not ruled out attending a climate demonstration over the weekend, health permitting. The pregnancy was unplanned and followed a difficult period that included a miscarriage and multiple failed rounds of IVF and assisted reproduction, which had temporarily halted her hopes for another child. Throughout her pregnancy, she remained candid about the physical toll of campaigning, including bouts of morning sickness experienced while travelling by high-speed rail.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/le-monde-says-french-defence-ministry-would-give-a-military-response-1789896911466/amp">Le Monde says French defence ministry would give a military response</a>&nbsp;Writing on social media platform X after giving birth, Tondelier reflected on the balancing act ahead, noting it would also give her a platform to discuss the kind of future she wants for the country's children, as well as broader conversations around reproductive health and the postpartum struggles many women face.

In a historic first for French politics, Greens leader and presidential candidate Marine Tondelier has given birth to a baby boy while actively campaigning for the 2027 election. 

Marine Tondelier, leader of France's Green party and a candidate in the 2027 presidential race, announced Wednesday (Sep 23) that she has become a mother again, delivering a baby boy while continuing her campaign for the nation's highest office. The 40-year-old politician made history as the first French political candidate to campaign through pregnancy. She has said she hopes her experience will draw greater attention to issues surrounding infertility and motherhood in public discourse. Her son, named Leon, was born on September 18 in the northern city of Lens. Tondelier told news agency AFP that she and her family chose to keep the news out of the public eye for several days following the birth. Notably, the delivery came just hours after she attended a significant gathering at the Elysee Palace, where President Emmanuel Macron cautioned French political leaders about potential Russian hybrid warfare threats.

In a historic first for French politics, Greens leader and presidential candidate Marine Tondelier has given birth to a baby boy while actively campaigning for the 2027 election.

Historic First: French Presidential candidate Marine Tondelier gives birth on campaign trail

Notable personalities from India’s tourism and hospitality sector, along with senior policymakers, diplomats and industry leaders, came together in New Delhi on September 23 for the WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications.&nbsp;The summit brought together key voices from across the tourism ecosystem to discuss the sector’s future, emerging opportunities, evolving travel trends and challenges that could shape its growth.&nbsp;Panel 3 of the summit, titled ‘The business of travel: Aviation, hospitality &amp; India's tourism infra story’, featured Vikram Lalvani, MD &amp; CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts;&nbsp;&nbsp;Saurabh Tiwari, Vice President, Middle East, Maldives &amp; Sri Lanka, IHCL (Taj Dubai)&nbsp;Manish Puri, Head of Global Sales, Air India Limited &amp; Air India Express&nbsp;Ahmed Hamed Sharbak, Regional Manager (APAC), Visit Qatar&nbsp;Kamal Munasinghe, Sr. Vice President, Colombo Hotels &amp; General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka&nbsp;Muktesh Pardeshi, Former Secretary and Former Ambassador to Türkiye &amp; New Zealand.<h2>India's tourism growth and changing travel patterns&nbsp;</h2>On whether hotel infrastructure is ready for more Indians travelling abroad,&nbsp;Saurabh Tiwari of IHCL (Taj Dubai)&nbsp;said global hotel chains have little choice but to prepare for the growing number of Indian travellers and their rising disposable incomes.&nbsp;“Global hotels do not have a choice, as Indians are travelling more and more and have disposable income to spend. So we better get ready for the challenge,” Tiwari said.&nbsp;He said Indian travellers are increasingly looking for better experiences as their spending capacity grows.&nbsp;“Indians are looking for great experiences with expanding spending capacity as the country itself is becoming better and better in terms of providing everything. So when Indian tourists go abroad, they expect an even better experience,” Tiwari said.&nbsp;Vikram Lalvani, MD &amp; CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, spoke about changing travel patterns as Gen Z and Gen Alpha increasingly participate in tourism.&nbsp;“The way the industry is moving is destination-led. In the future generation also, the question remains the same: why do I have to travel to a particular destination? Is the destination worth it? Is it safe enough?” Lalvani said.&nbsp;He said the way different destinations are connected would become increasingly important, with travellers looking for hybrid experiences.&nbsp;“Going forward is how we connect different destinations is important: hybrid experience. Like connecting a heritage town to hill stations like Mount Abu to Udaipur,” Lalvani said.&nbsp;Lalvani also stressed that domestic tourism remains a major driver of India's tourism sector.&nbsp;“If we say tourism is thriving, it is domestic tourism. We should not only focus on international tourism; the industry is thriving because of domestic tourism. After Covid, the first thing that rebounded was domestic tourism,” he said.&nbsp;He also called for India to promote itself as a year-round tourism destination instead of focusing mainly on the months when international tourists traditionally visit.&nbsp;“Our narrative about India can be 360-day tourism should go out to the world beyond November and January, which is known for international tourists,” Lalvani said.<h2>India eyes global aviation hub status as infrastructure expands</h2>Manish Puri, Head of Global Sales, Air India, said India has made significant progress in aviation infrastructure over the past decade as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a global aviation hub.&nbsp;“India is always a chicken-and-egg story. Is the demand come first, or does infra come first? But in the last 10 years, the situation has become better in terms of infra with a new airport at Jewar, in Navi Mumbai and others,” Puri said.&nbsp;He said the large number of aircraft orders placed by Indian carriers for the coming decade would further support the country's aviation growth.&nbsp;“With the number of orders Indian carriers placed in the next 10 years, we are ready to take the world by storm,” Puri said.&nbsp;However, Puri said India needs to improve transit facilities at its airport terminals to compete with major global aviation hubs and airlines.&nbsp;“The transit facility at the terminal is required to get better to compete with the global giants like Etihad, Qatar Airways,” he said.&nbsp;Puri also reflected on the transformation of Air India following its privatisation.&nbsp;“When AI was privatised, people were expecting a magic wand that would wash away every problem with the airline. However, in the last five years we have been able to change. We raised the consumer experience through NPS,” Puri said.&nbsp;<h2>Tourism diplomacy and soft power&nbsp;</h2>Former Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi, Former Secretary and Former Ambassador to Türkiye &amp; New Zealand, highlighted the role of tourism diplomacy in strengthening India's economic and international engagement.&nbsp;“Tourism diplomacy is an important part of economic diplomacy. We have a mantra of 3 Ts, that is trade, tourism and technology,” Pardeshi said.&nbsp;He said tourism also contributes to a country's soft power and that a larger number of international tourists could strengthen India's global presence.&nbsp;“Tourism also helps in soft power projection of the country. If we had more tourists as per current level it will significantly enhance soft power,” Pardeshi said.&nbsp;Pardeshi compared India's foreign tourist arrivals with Türkiye, saying Türkiye attracts 65 million tourists while India has remained at around 20 million foreign tourists, including around 10 million NRIs.&nbsp;“To change that, government, industry and civil society need to step up its efforts as India has everything from landscape to heritage,” he said.&nbsp;Reflecting on his experience during India's G20 presidency, Pardeshi said India needs to invest in tourism promotion as well as the creation of social infrastructure.&nbsp;He also stressed the need to improve cleanliness and skills in the tourism sector.&nbsp;“Unless we work on neatness and cleanliness and we fix our issues, India can't realise tourism potential,” Pardeshi said.&nbsp;He also highlighted the lack of skill training among people working in the tourism sector, citing his experience of organising such training during the G20 summit in India.<h2>Qatar, Sri Lanka seek deeper tourism ties with India</h2>Ahmed Hamed Sharbak, Regional Manager (APAC), Visit Qatar, highlighted the long-standing relationship between India and Qatar and called for greater tourism collaboration between the two countries.&nbsp;“We have a long history between India and Qatar. We want collaboration between both countries,” Sharbak said.&nbsp;He said Qatar is looking to attract more family and leisure travellers while also building on its strengths in business and sports tourism.&nbsp;“We are big on tourism with sports, including the soccer World Cup and upcoming Formula 1. We are pushing even for stopover tourists who are only for 24 hours, 48 hours even while transiting to Europe,” he said.&nbsp;Sharbak also highlighted the growing importance of social media in shaping travel experiences.&nbsp;“You gonna spend money when you are going on holiday and document the experience on social media and we provide all of that,” he said.&nbsp;He added that Qatar has visa-on-arrival access for visitors from 100 destinations.&nbsp;Kamal Munasinghe, Sr. Vice President, Colombo Hotels &amp; General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka, stressed that the tourism relationship between India and Sri Lanka should work both ways and go beyond air connectivity.&nbsp;“For the tourism corridor between both countries, it’s not just about a one-way street. It is a two-way street. We are pushing more connectivity beyond air connectivity, like the recently inaugurated ferry connectivity in 2024,” Munasinghe said.&nbsp;He said Sri Lanka wants more Indians to visit the country, while also encouraging more Sri Lankans to travel to India.&nbsp;“As much as we want Indians to visit Sri Lanka, we also want Sri Lankans to travel to India. For the airlines to survive, there are so many activities for Sri Lankans to come to India,” he said.&nbsp;Munasinghe also called for greater professional exchange between the two countries' tourism sectors.“It’s best if we can provide exposure to Sri Lankans to work in India and vice versa,” he said.

Industry leaders at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit 2026 discussed India’s growing travel demand, aviation infrastructure, hospitality sector, tourism diplomacy and the need for stronger domestic and international tourism connectivity.

Notable personalities from India’s tourism and hospitality sector, along with senior policymakers, diplomats and industry leaders, came together in New Delhi on September 23 for the WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026, presented by VFS Global in association with Red Hat Communications. The summit brought together key voices from across the tourism ecosystem to discuss the sector’s future, emerging opportunities, evolving travel trends and challenges that could shape its growth. Panel 3 of the summit, titled ‘The business of travel: Aviation, hospitality & India's tourism infra story’, featured Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts; Saurabh Tiwari, Vice President, Middle East, Maldives & Sri Lanka, IHCL (Taj Dubai) Manish Puri, Head of Global Sales, Air India Limited & Air India Express Ahmed Hamed Sharbak, Regional Manager (APAC), Visit Qatar Kamal Munasinghe, Sr. Vice President, Colombo Hotels & General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka Muktesh Pardeshi, Former Secretary and Former Ambassador to Türkiye & New Zealand. India's tourism growth and changing travel patterns On whether hotel infrastructure is ready for more Indians travelling abroad, Saurabh Tiwari of IHCL (Taj Dubai) said global hotel chains have little choice but to prepare for the growing number of Indian travellers and their rising disposable incomes. “Global hotels do not have a choice, as Indians are travelling more and more and have disposable income to spend. So we better get ready for the challenge,” Tiwari said. He said Indian travellers are increasingly looking for better experiences as their spending capacity grows. “Indians are looking for great experiences with expanding spending capacity as the country itself is becoming better and better in terms of providing everything. So when Indian tourists go abroad, they expect an even better experience,” Tiwari said. Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, spoke about changing travel patterns as Gen Z and Gen Alpha increasingly participate in tourism. “The way the industry is moving is destination-led. In the future generation also, the question remains the same: why do I have to travel to a particular destination? Is the destination worth it? Is it safe enough?” Lalvani said. He said the way different destinations are connected would become increasingly important, with travellers looking for hybrid experiences. “Going forward is how we connect different destinations is important: hybrid experience. Like connecting a heritage town to hill stations like Mount Abu to Udaipur,” Lalvani said. Lalvani also stressed that domestic tourism remains a major driver of India's tourism sector. “If we say tourism is thriving, it is domestic tourism. We should not only focus on international tourism; the industry is thriving because of domestic tourism. After Covid, the first thing that rebounded was domestic tourism,” he said. He also called for India to promote itself as a year-round tourism destination instead of focusing mainly on the months when international tourists traditionally visit. “Our narrative about India can be 360-day tourism should go out to the world beyond November and January, which is known for international tourists,” Lalvani said. India eyes global aviation hub status as infrastructure expands Manish Puri, Head of Global Sales, Air India, said India has made significant progress in aviation infrastructure over the past decade as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a global aviation hub. “India is always a chicken-and-egg story. Is the demand come first, or does infra come first? But in the last 10 years, the situation has become better in terms of infra with a new airport at Jewar, in Navi Mumbai and others,” Puri said. He said the large number of aircraft orders placed by Indian carriers for the coming decade would further support the country's aviation growth. “With the number of orders Indian carriers placed in the next 10 years, we are ready to take the world by storm,” Puri said. However, Puri said India needs to improve transit facilities at its airport terminals to compete with major global aviation hubs and airlines. “The transit facility at the terminal is required to get better to compete with the global giants like Etihad, Qatar Airways,” he said. Puri also reflected on the transformation of Air India following its privatisation. “When AI was privatised, people were expecting a magic wand that would wash away every problem with the airline. However, in the last five years we have been able to change. We raised the consumer experience through NPS,” Puri said. Tourism diplomacy and soft power Former Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi, Former Secretary and Former Ambassador to Türkiye & New Zealand, highlighted the role of tourism diplomacy in strengthening India's economic and international engagement. “Tourism diplomacy is an important part of economic diplomacy. We have a mantra of 3 Ts, that is trade, tourism and technology,” Pardeshi said. He said tourism also contributes to a country's soft power and that a larger number of international tourists could strengthen India's global presence. “Tourism also helps in soft power projection of the country. If we had more tourists as per current level it will significantly enhance soft power,” Pardeshi said. Pardeshi compared India's foreign tourist arrivals with Türkiye, saying Türkiye attracts 65 million tourists while India has remained at around 20 million foreign tourists, including around 10 million NRIs. “To change that, government, industry and civil society need to step up its efforts as India has everything from landscape to heritage,” he said. Reflecting on his experience during India's G20 presidency, Pardeshi said India needs to invest in tourism promotion as well as the creation of social infrastructure. He also stressed the need to improve cleanliness and skills in the tourism sector. “Unless we work on neatness and cleanliness and we fix our issues, India can't realise tourism potential,” Pardeshi said. He also highlighted the lack of skill training among people working in the tourism sector, citing his experience of organising such training during the G20 summit in India. Qatar, Sri Lanka seek deeper tourism ties with India Ahmed Hamed Sharbak, Regional Manager (APAC), Visit Qatar, highlighted the long-standing relationship between India and Qatar and called for greater tourism collaboration between the two countries. “We have a long history between India and Qatar. We want collaboration between both countries,” Sharbak said. He said Qatar is looking to attract more family and leisure travellers while also building on its strengths in business and sports tourism. “We are big on tourism with sports, including the soccer World Cup and upcoming Formula 1. We are pushing even for stopover tourists who are only for 24 hours, 48 hours even while transiting to Europe,” he said. Sharbak also highlighted the growing importance of social media in shaping travel experiences. “You gonna spend money when you are going on holiday and document the experience on social media and we provide all of that,” he said. He added that Qatar has visa-on-arrival access for visitors from 100 destinations. Kamal Munasinghe, Sr. Vice President, Colombo Hotels & General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka, stressed that the tourism relationship between India and Sri Lanka should work both ways and go beyond air connectivity. “For the tourism corridor between both countries, it’s not just about a one-way street. It is a two-way street. We are pushing more connectivity beyond air connectivity, like the recently inaugurated ferry connectivity in 2024,” Munasinghe said. He said Sri Lanka wants more Indians to visit the country, while also encouraging more Sri Lankans to travel to India. “As much as we want Indians to visit Sri Lanka, we also want Sri Lankans to travel to India. For the airlines to survive, there are so many activities for Sri Lankans to come to India,” he said. Munasinghe also called for greater professional exchange between the two countries' tourism sectors. “It’s best if we can provide exposure to Sri Lankans to work in India and vice versa,” he said.

Industry leaders at the WION Iconic Tourism Summit 2026 discussed India’s growing travel demand, aviation infrastructure, hospitality sector, tourism diplomacy and the need for stronger domestic and international tourism connectivity.

WION Iconic Tourism Summit: India’s tourism potential, aviation push and changing travel trends

Chinese President Xi Jinping has departed Beijing for Washington, where he is set to meet US President Donald Trump as the two countries seek to ease tensions over trade while confronting growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence.Xi “left Beijing by special plane” on Wednesday, accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, Chinese Communist Party Politburo Standing Committee member Cai Qi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, among others, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported. China’s Foreign Ministry also confirmed that Xi left Beijing on Wednesday for a state visit to the US at Trump’s invitation.Trump is due to personally receive Xi and Peng at Joint Base Andrews after their arrival near Washington, the White House said. The unusual airport welcome comes ahead of Xi’s formal state visit to the White House on Thursday.<h2>What is planned for Xi's visit</h2>Xi and Peng are scheduled to attend a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House on Thursday morning. The ceremony is expected to include a military flyover before Trump and Xi hold talks.Trump will also host Xi for a state dinner at the White House on Thursday evening. The visit is scheduled to conclude on Friday, when the two presidential couples will have tea at the White House before visiting the National Archives.The White House has described Xi’s visit as a “significant milestone” in relations between Washington and Beijing.<h2>Iran and Taiwan tensions</h2>The talks could also touch on wider geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran and the Taiwan issue. China has sought to avoid US sanctions against countries dealing with Tehran, while Washington has raised concerns about Beijing's role in the conflict.Taiwan is another major point of contention. Beijing claims the self-governed island as part of its territory, while Washington maintains close ties with Taipei.Trump has said he plans to discuss “almost everything” with Xi during the visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Beijing for a state visit to Washington, where US President Donald Trump will personally greet him to discuss trade tensions and artificial intelligence concerns.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has departed Beijing for Washington, where he is set to meet US President Donald Trump as the two countries seek to ease tensions over trade while confronting growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. Xi “left Beijing by special plane” on Wednesday, accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, Chinese Communist Party Politburo Standing Committee member Cai Qi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, among others, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported. China’s Foreign Ministry also confirmed that Xi left Beijing on Wednesday for a state visit to the US at Trump’s invitation. Trump is due to personally receive Xi and Peng at Joint Base Andrews after their arrival near Washington, the White House said. The unusual airport welcome comes ahead of Xi’s formal state visit to the White House on Thursday. What is planned for Xi's visit Xi and Peng are scheduled to attend a State Arrival Ceremony at the White House on Thursday morning. The ceremony is expected to include a military flyover before Trump and Xi hold talks. Trump will also host Xi for a state dinner at the White House on Thursday evening. The visit is scheduled to conclude on Friday, when the two presidential couples will have tea at the White House before visiting the National Archives. The White House has described Xi’s visit as a “significant milestone” in relations between Washington and Beijing. Iran and Taiwan tensions The talks could also touch on wider geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran and the Taiwan issue. China has sought to avoid US sanctions against countries dealing with Tehran, while Washington has raised concerns about Beijing's role in the conflict. Taiwan is another major point of contention. Beijing claims the self-governed island as part of its territory, while Washington maintains close ties with Taipei. Trump has said he plans to discuss “almost everything” with Xi during the visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Beijing for a state visit to Washington, where US President Donald Trump will personally greet him to discuss trade tensions and artificial intelligence concerns.

Xi Jinping heads to Washington for Trump talks: Trade, AI, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda

Explosions were heard in Russia's Bashkortostan region on September 23, amid reports of a drone attack. Fires have been reported near the oil refinery in Ufa and on the grounds of the Kuibyshev Oil Refinery in Samara. The strike was 1,300 to 1,400 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. According to Ukrainian Defence Intelligence, the explosions caused significant damage to a vacuum oil distillation tower at the Novo Ufa refinery.Russian authorities have not confirmed the attack in the region. An ASTRA OSINT analyst, after examining a photograph taken by an eyewitness, identified smoke in the vicinity of the Ufa Oil Refinery. Russian air defence allegedly “intercepted and destroyed” 514 drones over 18 regions of Russia, occupied Crimea, as well as the Azov and Black Seas.Russian Foreign Ministry has warned the United Kingdom and France that providing sensitive missile technology, intended to help Kyiv manufacture long-range Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missiles. On September 18, Russia dressed down Britain's top diplomat in Moscow, Chargé d'Affaires Danae Dholakia, over a "further increase" in supplying long-range strike drones and advanced weapon systems.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-dominates-unga-81-guterres-lula-erdogan-israel-war-1790096337223">World leaders repeatedly call Gaza crisis ‘genocide’ as Israel’s war dominates opening sessions of UNGA</a>Russia targeted railway infrastructure, warehouses and two fuel stations in Kyiv with drone strikes on Wednesday, just hours after Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Donald Trump to discuss peace. Explosions were heard as smoke billowed above the city centre in Kyiv. At least two people were killed, and 22 others were injured in the attack.&nbsp;"This is the view from the windows of the EU Delegation today. Buildings nearby are burning," ​Katarina Mathernova, the EU ambassador to Ukraine, said in a social media post.Zelensky on Wednesday met Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. They discussed a potential bilateral ceasefire ​on energy-related targets and asked for increased supplies of U.S. Patriot air defence missiles to defend against an expected Russian ​winter campaign against Ukraine's electricity infrastructure. He said that no agreements have been made.Zelensky also met European Commission President Ursula von ​der Leyen, seeking help to plug the budget deficit as Ukraine's military expenditure continued to rise.

Ukraine targeted oil refineries deep inside Russia as Moscow launched deadly drone strikes on Kyiv after Zelensky-Trump talks.

Explosions were heard in Russia's Bashkortostan region on September 23, amid reports of a drone attack. Fires have been reported near the oil refinery in Ufa and on the grounds of the Kuibyshev Oil Refinery in Samara. The strike was 1,300 to 1,400 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. According to Ukrainian Defence Intelligence, the explosions caused significant damage to a vacuum oil distillation tower at the Novo Ufa refinery. Russian authorities have not confirmed the attack in the region. An ASTRA OSINT analyst, after examining a photograph taken by an eyewitness, identified smoke in the vicinity of the Ufa Oil Refinery. Russian air defence allegedly “intercepted and destroyed” 514 drones over 18 regions of Russia, occupied Crimea, as well as the Azov and Black Seas. Russian Foreign Ministry has warned the United Kingdom and France that providing sensitive missile technology, intended to help Kyiv manufacture long-range Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missiles. On September 18, Russia dressed down Britain's top diplomat in Moscow, Chargé d'Affaires Danae Dholakia, over a "further increase" in supplying long-range strike drones and advanced weapon systems. Also Read: World leaders repeatedly call Gaza crisis ‘genocide’ as Israel’s war dominates opening sessions of UNGA Russia targeted railway infrastructure, warehouses and two fuel stations in Kyiv with drone strikes on Wednesday, just hours after Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Donald Trump to discuss peace. Explosions were heard as smoke billowed above the city centre in Kyiv. At least two people were killed, and 22 others were injured in the attack. "This is the view from the windows of the EU Delegation today. Buildings nearby are burning," Katarina Mathernova, the EU ambassador to Ukraine, said in a social media post. Zelensky on Wednesday met Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. They discussed a potential bilateral ceasefire on energy-related targets and asked for increased supplies of U.S. Patriot air defence missiles to defend against an expected Russian winter campaign against Ukraine's electricity infrastructure. He said that no agreements have been made. Zelensky also met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, seeking help to plug the budget deficit as Ukraine's military expenditure continued to rise.

Ukraine targeted oil refineries deep inside Russia as Moscow launched deadly drone strikes on Kyiv after Zelensky-Trump talks.

Ukraine hits Ufa oil refinery as Russia strikes Kyiv after Zelensky-Trump talks

At least two people were killed after Russian strikes on civilian transport infrastructure across Ukraine on Wednesday (Sep 23). The renewed attacks damaged the country’s railways, petrol stations and shipping.In Kyiv and the surrounding region, a 42-year-old man who was wounded in a strike on a petrol station later died in hospital. A railway worker returning home after his shift was also injured by shrapnel.Oleksandr Pertsovsky, head of Ukrainian Railways, said Kyiv’s rail network was “under fire” and urged passengers using the capital’s central station to exercise “maximum” vigilance.Ukraine’s railways have continued operating throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022, providing a crucial link for civilians and the wider economy.Pertsovsky earlier told AFP that attacks on railway infrastructure had been worsening every week. One recent strike also hit a train carrying diplomats near the Polish border.President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of seeking to “cripple the economy and destroy people's lives” through attacks on transport and other infrastructure.<h2>Odesa ship captain killed</h2>The attacks extended to Ukraine’s Black Sea shipping routes, where the captain of a cargo vessel was killed in a Russian strike near the southern port of Odesa.Odesa regional governor Oleg Kiper said the Ukrainian captain was in charge of the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged vessel.The incident comes amid a broader escalation involving commercial shipping in the Black Sea. Turkey’s IMEAK Chamber of Shipping says at least 226 civilian and commercial vessels have been hit since the conflict began. Of those, 163 attacks – about 70 per cent – occurred during the first eight months of this year.Turkey has proposed that Russia and Ukraine stop attacks on civilian vessels, but no agreement has followed.“The recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea are unacceptable, regardless of who is responsible,” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.<h2>Moscow says military targets were hit</h2>Russia’s defence ministry said its latest strikes on the Kyiv region targeted a warehouse and businesses involved in producing drones for Ukraine’s armed forces.It also said similar facilities in the Odesa region were targeted, along with a vessel carrying military cargo.

Russian strikes hit Ukraine’s railways, petrol stations and Black Sea shipping, killing at least two people. Kyiv says attacks on civilian transport infrastructure are intensifying.

At least two people were killed after Russian strikes on civilian transport infrastructure across Ukraine on Wednesday (Sep 23). The renewed attacks damaged the country’s railways, petrol stations and shipping. In Kyiv and the surrounding region, a 42-year-old man who was wounded in a strike on a petrol station later died in hospital. A railway worker returning home after his shift was also injured by shrapnel. Oleksandr Pertsovsky, head of Ukrainian Railways, said Kyiv’s rail network was “under fire” and urged passengers using the capital’s central station to exercise “maximum” vigilance. Ukraine’s railways have continued operating throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022, providing a crucial link for civilians and the wider economy. Pertsovsky earlier told AFP that attacks on railway infrastructure had been worsening every week. One recent strike also hit a train carrying diplomats near the Polish border. President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of seeking to “cripple the economy and destroy people's lives” through attacks on transport and other infrastructure. Odesa ship captain killed The attacks extended to Ukraine’s Black Sea shipping routes, where the captain of a cargo vessel was killed in a Russian strike near the southern port of Odesa. Odesa regional governor Oleg Kiper said the Ukrainian captain was in charge of the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged vessel. The incident comes amid a broader escalation involving commercial shipping in the Black Sea. Turkey’s IMEAK Chamber of Shipping says at least 226 civilian and commercial vessels have been hit since the conflict began. Of those, 163 attacks – about 70 per cent – occurred during the first eight months of this year. Turkey has proposed that Russia and Ukraine stop attacks on civilian vessels, but no agreement has followed. “The recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea are unacceptable, regardless of who is responsible,” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. Moscow says military targets were hit Russia’s defence ministry said its latest strikes on the Kyiv region targeted a warehouse and businesses involved in producing drones for Ukraine’s armed forces. It also said similar facilities in the Odesa region were targeted, along with a vessel carrying military cargo.

Russian strikes hit Ukraine’s railways, petrol stations and Black Sea shipping, killing at least two people. Kyiv says attacks on civilian transport infrastructure are intensifying.

Ukraine ‘under fire’: Russian strikes on railways, petrol stations and shipping kills two

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Washington on Thursday (Sep 24), with trade once again at the centre of a relationship that has swung between tariff escalation and uneasy truces.The two countries have pulled back from the extraordinary tariff battle that pushed US duties on Chinese imports as high as 145 per cent and China's retaliatory tariffs to 125 per cent. But the underlying disputes have not disappeared. Tariffs, rare earths, agricultural purchases and technology controls remain unresolved, while new disagreements over artificial intelligence and sanctions linked to Iran are adding fresh complications.The latest talks are expected to focus on keeping the current trade truce intact. That arrangement is due to expire on November 10 unless Washington and Beijing extend it. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said maintaining the truce was a focus of recent discussions with Chinese officials.Here are the main economic disputes Trump and Xi will have to navigate.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a><h2>Tariffs: the biggest unresolved trade fight</h2>Tariffs remain the most visible sign of the US-China trade conflict. Trump's return to the White House triggered a new round of tariff action in 2025, followed by Chinese retaliation. At the height of that confrontation, Washington's tariffs on Chinese goods reached 145 per cent while Beijing's duties on American imports climbed to 125 per cent. Talks in Geneva and later negotiations in South Korea brought those rates down and created a temporary ceasefire.That truce remains fragile. Different US estimates show that Chinese goods still face substantially higher tariffs than imports from many other major trading partners.The question now is whether Trump and Xi will simply extend the existing arrangement or try to widen it into a more durable trade framework.The US has also been discussing a proposed $30 billion reduction package covering so-called non-critical goods, while Beijing could make additional purchases of American products.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spy-vs-spy-as-xi-meets-trump-a-12-year-history-of-us-china-espionage-accusations-wion-decodes-1790071582437">SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes</a><h2>Rare earths: China's leverage over US industry</h2>Rare earths have emerged as one of Beijing's most powerful economic levers. These minerals and the magnets made from them are essential to products ranging from electronics and electric vehicles to advanced military equipment. China dominates the processing of many critical minerals, a dependency that Washington has increasingly treated as a national security concern. The US Commerce Department has described China's position in critical-mineral processing as a vulnerability for American industry.China tightened export controls on rare earths in 2025 during the trade confrontation. Those restrictions became a major bargaining point in negotiations with Washington.As part of the late-2025 agreement, Beijing suspended the implementation of broader export restrictions and agreed to facilitate exports of rare earths and other critical minerals to US users. Washington, in return, suspended or reduced some of its trade measures.But the issue is not settled. Ahead of the latest summit, US officials have been pushing for more consistent supplies, while Chinese shipments of rare earth magnets to the United States fell in August, according to Chinese customs data cited by the Financial Times.For Washington, the dispute is about reducing dependence on China. For Beijing, rare earths provide leverage in negotiations because alternative supply chains cannot be built quickly.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-have-gained-access-to-us-s-classified-f-35-jets-parts-meant-for-repairs-diverted-to-hong-kong-sparking-pentagon-inquiry-1789789538070">China may have gained access to US's classified F-35 jets; parts meant for repairs diverted to Hong Kong, sparking Pentagon inquiry</a><h2>Agriculture: promises versus deliveries</h2>American farm exports have repeatedly featured in Trump-Xi negotiations, particularly soybeans. The two countries have used agricultural purchases as part of broader trade bargains, with China agreeing to buy US farm products in exchange for changes in American tariffs and restrictions.But Washington has continued to question whether Beijing has fully met some commitments from previous agreements. Bessent said this week that “some deliverables” under an earlier Trump-Xi agreement had not been completely fulfilled.Agriculture is therefore both a commercial issue and a political one for the Trump administration, because China is a major market for American farmers.Recent talks have included expectations of further US agricultural purchases. Reuters reported that China was on track to meet a commitment to buy 25 million metric tonnes of US agricultural products annually through 2028, while additional imports were also being discussed.The broader disagreement is over whether purchase commitments can produce a lasting rebalancing of trade or merely form part of temporary summit deals.<h2>Semiconductors and AI: trade is becoming technology policy</h2>The US-China trade dispute is no longer just about goods crossing borders. It increasingly extends to the technology needed to produce them.Washington has restricted China's access to some advanced semiconductors and chipmaking technologies, citing national security concerns. Beijing has responded with its own controls and measures affecting foreign companies and strategic technologies.The US Trade Representative's 2026 report said it had determined that China's targeting of the semiconductor industry for dominance creates economic and national security risks for the United States. Washington has announced a Section 301 tariff measure on Chinese semiconductors, initially set at zero but scheduled to rise from June 2027.Artificial intelligence has now been added to that technology dispute.Bessent said recent US-China discussions included creating a mechanism for the two countries to notify each other about AI incidents with national security implications. The upcoming summit is also expected to address AI safety and the rules surrounding increasingly powerful models.<h2>Fentanyl chemicals and trade restrictions</h2>The flow of chemicals used to manufacture illicit fentanyl has been another source of tension.Washington has accused Chinese suppliers of being a major source of precursor chemicals and has used tariffs and other trade measures to pressure Beijing.China agreed in late 2025 to tighten controls on designated chemicals and take measures to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors. The United States subsequently reduced part of its fentanyl-related tariff burden.But the issue remains active. China has introduced additional export controls on precursor chemicals ahead of Xi's visit, showing that the subject remains part of the wider economic relationship.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-greenland-security-deal-with-denmark-paving-way-for-two-new-us-military-bases-1790128313245">Trump signs Greenland security deal with Denmark, paving way for two new US military bases</a><h2>Iran sanctions add another layer</h2>The Iran conflict is not traditionally a US-China trade dispute, but it is increasingly tied to the economic relationship.The Trump administration's sanctions campaign against Iran has put pressure on Chinese companies and financial institutions that conduct business with Tehran. Washington has so far avoided directly targeting Beijing, but US officials have held discussions with their Chinese counterparts over the issue.Bessent said the subject was raised during recent talks with Chinese officials and that Chinese financial authorities had been engaged in discussions.That creates another potential point of friction just as Washington is trying to preserve its trade truce with Beijing.<h2>What is at stake at the Trump-Xi meeting?</h2>The US and China remain deeply economically intertwined despite the trade war. US goods trade with China totalled $414.6 billion in 2025, while services trade added another $80 billion, according to US government figures. The US goods deficit with China was $202.7 billion that year.The immediate issue is whether the two leaders can keep the current truce from unravelling before its November 10 expiry. Beyond that lies a much harder question: whether the world's two largest economies can manage their competition without repeatedly returning to tariffs, export controls and retaliatory measures.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping meet in Washington on Thursday with a fragile US-China trade truce at stake. Tariffs remain unresolved, but rare earths, farm purchases, semiconductors, AI and Iran sanctions could make the talks far more complicated.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Washington on Thursday (Sep 24), with trade once again at the centre of a relationship that has swung between tariff escalation and uneasy truces. The two countries have pulled back from the extraordinary tariff battle that pushed US duties on Chinese imports as high as 145 per cent and China's retaliatory tariffs to 125 per cent. But the underlying disputes have not disappeared. Tariffs, rare earths, agricultural purchases and technology controls remain unresolved, while new disagreements over artificial intelligence and sanctions linked to Iran are adding fresh complications. The latest talks are expected to focus on keeping the current trade truce intact. That arrangement is due to expire on November 10 unless Washington and Beijing extend it. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said maintaining the truce was a focus of recent discussions with Chinese officials. Here are the main economic disputes Trump and Xi will have to navigate. Also read | Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill Tariffs: the biggest unresolved trade fight Tariffs remain the most visible sign of the US-China trade conflict. Trump's return to the White House triggered a new round of tariff action in 2025, followed by Chinese retaliation. At the height of that confrontation, Washington's tariffs on Chinese goods reached 145 per cent while Beijing's duties on American imports climbed to 125 per cent. Talks in Geneva and later negotiations in South Korea brought those rates down and created a temporary ceasefire. That truce remains fragile. Different US estimates show that Chinese goods still face substantially higher tariffs than imports from many other major trading partners. The question now is whether Trump and Xi will simply extend the existing arrangement or try to widen it into a more durable trade framework. The US has also been discussing a proposed $30 billion reduction package covering so-called non-critical goods, while Beijing could make additional purchases of American products. Also read | SPY VS SPY: As Xi meets Trump, a 12-year history of US-China espionage accusations | WION Decodes Rare earths: China's leverage over US industry Rare earths have emerged as one of Beijing's most powerful economic levers. These minerals and the magnets made from them are essential to products ranging from electronics and electric vehicles to advanced military equipment. China dominates the processing of many critical minerals, a dependency that Washington has increasingly treated as a national security concern. The US Commerce Department has described China's position in critical-mineral processing as a vulnerability for American industry. China tightened export controls on rare earths in 2025 during the trade confrontation. Those restrictions became a major bargaining point in negotiations with Washington. As part of the late-2025 agreement, Beijing suspended the implementation of broader export restrictions and agreed to facilitate exports of rare earths and other critical minerals to US users. Washington, in return, suspended or reduced some of its trade measures. But the issue is not settled. Ahead of the latest summit, US officials have been pushing for more consistent supplies, while Chinese shipments of rare earth magnets to the United States fell in August, according to Chinese customs data cited by the Financial Times. For Washington, the dispute is about reducing dependence on China. For Beijing, rare earths provide leverage in negotiations because alternative supply chains cannot be built quickly. Also read | China may have gained access to US's classified F-35 jets; parts meant for repairs diverted to Hong Kong, sparking Pentagon inquiry Agriculture: promises versus deliveries American farm exports have repeatedly featured in Trump-Xi negotiations, particularly soybeans. The two countries have used agricultural purchases as part of broader trade bargains, with China agreeing to buy US farm products in exchange for changes in American tariffs and restrictions. But Washington has continued to question whether Beijing has fully met some commitments from previous agreements. Bessent said this week that “some deliverables” under an earlier Trump-Xi agreement had not been completely fulfilled. Agriculture is therefore both a commercial issue and a political one for the Trump administration, because China is a major market for American farmers. Recent talks have included expectations of further US agricultural purchases. Reuters reported that China was on track to meet a commitment to buy 25 million metric tonnes of US agricultural products annually through 2028, while additional imports were also being discussed. The broader disagreement is over whether purchase commitments can produce a lasting rebalancing of trade or merely form part of temporary summit deals. Semiconductors and AI: trade is becoming technology policy The US-China trade dispute is no longer just about goods crossing borders. It increasingly extends to the technology needed to produce them. Washington has restricted China's access to some advanced semiconductors and chipmaking technologies, citing national security concerns. Beijing has responded with its own controls and measures affecting foreign companies and strategic technologies. The US Trade Representative's 2026 report said it had determined that China's targeting of the semiconductor industry for dominance creates economic and national security risks for the United States. Washington has announced a Section 301 tariff measure on Chinese semiconductors, initially set at zero but scheduled to rise from June 2027. Artificial intelligence has now been added to that technology dispute. Bessent said recent US-China discussions included creating a mechanism for the two countries to notify each other about AI incidents with national security implications. The upcoming summit is also expected to address AI safety and the rules surrounding increasingly powerful models. Fentanyl chemicals and trade restrictions The flow of chemicals used to manufacture illicit fentanyl has been another source of tension. Washington has accused Chinese suppliers of being a major source of precursor chemicals and has used tariffs and other trade measures to pressure Beijing. China agreed in late 2025 to tighten controls on designated chemicals and take measures to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors. The United States subsequently reduced part of its fentanyl-related tariff burden. But the issue remains active. China has introduced additional export controls on precursor chemicals ahead of Xi's visit, showing that the subject remains part of the wider economic relationship. Also read | Trump signs Greenland security deal with Denmark, paving way for two new US military bases Iran sanctions add another layer The Iran conflict is not traditionally a US-China trade dispute, but it is increasingly tied to the economic relationship. The Trump administration's sanctions campaign against Iran has put pressure on Chinese companies and financial institutions that conduct business with Tehran. Washington has so far avoided directly targeting Beijing, but US officials have held discussions with their Chinese counterparts over the issue. Bessent said the subject was raised during recent talks with Chinese officials and that Chinese financial authorities had been engaged in discussions. That creates another potential point of friction just as Washington is trying to preserve its trade truce with Beijing. What is at stake at the Trump-Xi meeting? The US and China remain deeply economically intertwined despite the trade war. US goods trade with China totalled $414.6 billion in 2025, while services trade added another $80 billion, according to US government figures. The US goods deficit with China was $202.7 billion that year. The immediate issue is whether the two leaders can keep the current truce from unravelling before its November 10 expiry. Beyond that lies a much harder question: whether the world's two largest economies can manage their competition without repeatedly returning to tariffs, export controls and retaliatory measures.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping meet in Washington on Thursday with a fragile US-China trade truce at stake. Tariffs remain unresolved, but rare earths, farm purchases, semiconductors, AI and Iran sanctions could make the talks far more complicated.

Trump-Xi Jinping Meeting 2026: What are the biggest trade disputes between the US and China?

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