How fast can the Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jet really fly?

Did China ask its people 'not to respond to aliens'? Origin of bizarre claim on social media

MS Dhoni-CSK Fallout? Report claims failed stake sale talks triggered rift

Scientists reveal the SAFEST COUNTRY when catastrophe strikes the planet

Serial killer on the loose in South Korea's Jeju Island? Fourth body found in three days as more than a dozen people go missing

2/3rd of glacier detached, collapsed: ISRO satellite images reveal what triggered Nepal floods

Trump once again claims without him there would be ‘no Israel right now’

Foreign espionage attacks against German companies surge to 37%, Bitkom report reveals

Blake Lively wins partial legal fee from Justin Baldoni after $8M request

Why is Pakistan deploying Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones near India border?

'OH MY GOD! We've found other agents!': Investigators discover not one or two, almost 700 OpenAI AI agents went rogue, hacked Hugging Face

Lunar eclipse 2026: India timings, places to see and more. August Blood moon factsheet

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on global outreach tour 

Both pilots killed as training aircraft crashes in Lucknow – What we know

16-year-old charged with preparing terror attack on kindergarten in Norway

How the S-400 protects itself from enemy attacks

Nepal floods: Over 165 dead, 400 missing; US, India, China, World Bank mobilise aid

India's multi-layered watch: The new surveillance war

5 doomsday planes spotted in US skies hours after CIA director's secret trip to Russia

9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to finally face trial in 2028, nearly 27 years after horrific attacks

Islamabad hospital fire: What we know about one of the biggest facility that housed Imran Khan

Workers run for life while filming Nepal flash flood: Scary new visuals emerge from Rasuwa

Russian military planes enter South Korean air defence zone amid rising tensions with North Korea: What's happening

Ron Weasley Is Back! Rupert Grint set to return to Harry Potter universe on Broadway

400-year-old 'vampire' grave in Poland reveals non-existent genetic lineage

Dolly Parton, global icon and queen of country music, dies at 80

Nepal flash floods: Kailash Mansarovar yatra affected, close to 400 pilgrims out of contact

'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate

Man arrested near US Capitol with guillotine in pickup truck: What happened?

Why the Su-30MKI cockpit is painted bright turquoise green

The Donald Trump administration announced a 25 per cent tariff on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China from February 1 onwards. As per Trump, the move is aimed at boosting the American industry, but experts say it's the US shoppers who will have to pay the price. As per the report by ABC News, experts have said a lot of products will get costlier amid this regime.&nbsp;
<h2>Gas prices might rise</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be&nbsp;worried?</a>
US imports around 70 per cent of its crude oil stock from Canada and Mexico. Reports said the countries are responsible for fuelling a large percentage of the entire gasoline supply in the United States at present.&nbsp;
According to Timothy Fitzgerald, a professor of business economics at the University of Tennessee, prices of fuel can go as high as 40 to 70 per cent, ABC News reported.&nbsp;
He further told the news agency that there could be an additional 30 per cent increase in the prices after the impact of seasonal prices.&nbsp;
<h2>Grocery bills can go up&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-brics-nation-with-100-pc-tariffs-for-replacing-us-dollar-8677282">Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar</a>
Mexico is one of the largest suppliers of food items consumed by Americans on a daily basis. Imposing a tariff on Mexican products would surely make the prices of groceries high.&nbsp;
Some of the common items, like avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, jalapenos, and limes, could see a hike in prices.&nbsp;
The prices can also go high because US producers cannot easily replace these items. This also applies for Mexican-made beer and tequila.&nbsp;
<h2>The automobile industry would be impacted&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-trump-vows-tariffs-on-china-india-brazil-and-other-nations-that-harm-us-8661806">'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US</a>
Canada and Mexico are huge suppliers of auto parts to the US, and the imposition of tariffs would lead to a hike in their prices as well.&nbsp;
In 2023, Canada and Mexico accounted for nearly 50 per cent of the US vehicle imports, amounting to around $120 billion.
The companies of vehicles, especially cars, would be impacted after the tariff on both sides of the border. As per Harvard's Kennedy School of Government professor, Robert Lawrence, the tariff would impact the prices of cars for consumers, ABC News reported.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/colombia-backs-down-on-migrant-row-us-pauses-its-plan-to-impose-tariffs">Colombia backs down on migrant row, US pauses its plan to impose tariffs</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | US exports around 70 percent of its crude oil stock from Canada and Mexico. Reports said the countries are responsible for fueling a large percentage of the entire gasoline supply in the United States at present. 

The Donald Trump administration announced a 25 per cent tariff on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China from February 1 onwards. As per Trump, the move is aimed at boosting the American industry, but experts say it's the US shoppers who will have to pay the price. As per the report by ABC News, experts have said a lot of products will get costlier amid this regime. Gas prices might rise Also read: Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried? US imports around 70 per cent of its crude oil stock from Canada and Mexico. Reports said the countries are responsible for fuelling a large percentage of the entire gasoline supply in the United States at present. According to Timothy Fitzgerald, a professor of business economics at the University of Tennessee, prices of fuel can go as high as 40 to 70 per cent, ABC News reported. He further told the news agency that there could be an additional 30 per cent increase in the prices after the impact of seasonal prices. Grocery bills can go up Also read: Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar Mexico is one of the largest suppliers of food items consumed by Americans on a daily basis. Imposing a tariff on Mexican products would surely make the prices of groceries high. Some of the common items, like avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, jalapenos, and limes, could see a hike in prices. The prices can also go high because US producers cannot easily replace these items. This also applies for Mexican-made beer and tequila. The automobile industry would be impacted Also read: 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US Canada and Mexico are huge suppliers of auto parts to the US, and the imposition of tariffs would lead to a hike in their prices as well. In 2023, Canada and Mexico accounted for nearly 50 per cent of the US vehicle imports, amounting to around $120 billion. The companies of vehicles, especially cars, would be impacted after the tariff on both sides of the border. As per Harvard's Kennedy School of Government professor, Robert Lawrence, the tariff would impact the prices of cars for consumers, ABC News reported. WATCH: Colombia backs down on migrant row, US pauses its plan to impose tariffs (With inputs from agencies)

US tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China - Here's what will be costlier for Americans now

As China tries to achieve global leadership in defence and military technologies, it is now building a new military command centre near its capital, which is expected to be ten times the size of the Pentagon, Financial Times reported, citing US intelligence officials.&nbsp;
Dubbed 'Beijing Military City', the construction of the facility began in mid-2024.&nbsp;
Recent satellite images show deep holes dug in the 1500-acre land, which is located 30 km southwest of Beijing.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-chinas-deepseek-a-startup-shaking-the-global-tech-look-at-other-key-players-in-chinese-ai-industry-8662290" rel="dofollow">What is China's DeepSeek, a startup shaking the global tech. A look at other players in Chinese AI industry</a>
The new military command may include large buildings and hardened bunkers, which will be designed to protect the top Politburo officials during any conflict, including a nuclear war.&nbsp;
<h2>'10 times bigger than Pentagon'</h2>
"Nearly 10 times bigger than the Pentagon, it's fitting for Xi Jinping's ambitions to surpass the US," an unnamed Chinese researcher told the publication.
The researcher added, "This fortress only serves one purpose, which is to act as a doomsday bunker for China's increasingly sophisticated and capable military."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-trump-vows-tariffs-on-china-india-brazil-and-other-nations-that-harm-us-8661806" rel="dofollow"> 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US</a>
The facility is further expected to replace the existing Western Hills complex and provide immense enhanced protection against the potential US "bunker buster" munitions and nuclear attacks.&nbsp;
The US intelligence officials and former CIA analysts suggested that the construction of the facility points to China's intent to develop advanced nuclear warfighting capabilities, The Telegraph reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-secretly-trying-to-gain-control-in-japan-specifically-in-okinawa-close-to-taiwan-8655020" rel="dofollow">China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan</a>
Notably, access to the facility is strictly restricted, with signs prohibiting drone flights and photography.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-deepseek-deepseek-or-deep-secrecy-netizens-slam-chinas-new-ai-chatbot-for-deflecting-questions-on-dark-chinese-history-lets-talk-about-something-else-8660727" rel="dofollow">DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history</a>
"Guards at one gate abruptly said that entry was prohibited and refused to talk about the project. One supervisor leaving the construction site refused to comment on the project," according to the report.
Dennis Wilder, the former head of China analysis for the CIA, said, "If confirmed, this new advanced underground command bunker for the military leadership, including President Xi as the chairman of the Central Military Commission, signals Beijing's intent to build not only a world-class conventional force but also an advanced nuclear warfighting capability."
(With inputs from agencies)

World: New military command may include large buildings and hardened bunkers, that will be designed to protect the top Politburo officials during any conflict. 

As China tries to achieve global leadership in defence and military technologies, it is now building a new military command centre near its capital, which is expected to be ten times the size of the Pentagon, Financial Times reported, citing US intelligence officials. Dubbed 'Beijing Military City', the construction of the facility began in mid-2024. Recent satellite images show deep holes dug in the 1500-acre land, which is located 30 km southwest of Beijing. Also read: What is China's DeepSeek, a startup shaking the global tech. A look at other players in Chinese AI industry The new military command may include large buildings and hardened bunkers, which will be designed to protect the top Politburo officials during any conflict, including a nuclear war. '10 times bigger than Pentagon' "Nearly 10 times bigger than the Pentagon, it's fitting for Xi Jinping's ambitions to surpass the US," an unnamed Chinese researcher told the publication. The researcher added, "This fortress only serves one purpose, which is to act as a doomsday bunker for China's increasingly sophisticated and capable military." Also read: 'America first': Trump vows tariffs on China, India, Brazil and other nations that 'harm' US The facility is further expected to replace the existing Western Hills complex and provide immense enhanced protection against the potential US "bunker buster" munitions and nuclear attacks. The US intelligence officials and former CIA analysts suggested that the construction of the facility points to China's intent to develop advanced nuclear warfighting capabilities, The Telegraph reported. Also read: China secretly trying to gain control in Japan, specifically in Okinawa, close to Taiwan Notably, access to the facility is strictly restricted, with signs prohibiting drone flights and photography. Also read: DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history "Guards at one gate abruptly said that entry was prohibited and refused to talk about the project. One supervisor leaving the construction site refused to comment on the project," according to the report. Dennis Wilder, the former head of China analysis for the CIA, said, "If confirmed, this new advanced underground command bunker for the military leadership, including President Xi as the chairman of the Central Military Commission, signals Beijing's intent to build not only a world-class conventional force but also an advanced nuclear warfighting capability." (With inputs from agencies)

China building military command centre, 10 times bigger than Pentagon: Report

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the second budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term on Saturday (Feb 1). This budget outlines key financial policies for the 2025&ndash;26 fiscal year.
The Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Feb 1) released three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;
A mid-sized air ambulance aircraft carrying a sick child and five others crashed on Friday (Jan 31) night shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The plane went down in a residential neighbourhood, sparking at least six house fires.
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2025-key-takeaways-from-major-tax-cuts-to-job-creation-push-8682017">Key takeaways from Union Budget 2025</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/fqGmgWvcCGrx0WroC0rj.png" alt=" Union Budget 2025 | Key takeaways Photograph: (Reuters, Wion Web Team) " style="width: 1280px;">
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the second budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term on Saturday (Feb 1). This budget outlines key financial policies for the 2025-26 fiscal year.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-hamas-releases-three-israeli-hostages-palestinian-prisoners-to-be-handed-over-soon-8681144">Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/yJ8g3BZvEwMNMgjI4Wer.png" alt=" Yarden Bibas embraces his father Eli and his sister Ofri at an IDF facility near Re'im after 484 days in Hamas captivity Photograph: (Screengrab/IDF ) ">
The Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Feb 1) released three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philadelphia-plane-crash-sick-child-among-six-feared-dead-what-we-know-so-far-8681880">Philadelphia plane crash: Sick child, mother among dead | What we know so far</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/ofaaZ9EHCqK7cAiDAZpk.png" alt=" Philadelphia plane crash: Sick child among six feared dead | What we know so far Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
A mid-sized air ambulance aircraft carrying a sick child and five others crashed on Friday (Jan 31) night shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The plane went down in a residential neighbourhood, sparking at least six house fires.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/union-budget-2025-india-hikes-foreign-aid-to-maldives-but-this-country-tops-the-chart-8682303">Union Budget 2025: India hikes foreign aid to Maldives, but THIS country tops the chart</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/grbRPSL6znhWFI3B0SNH.png" alt=" Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu Photograph: (AFP) ">
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive budget on Saturday (Feb 1), her budget speech also highlighted India's foreign aid to different countries, increasing aid for some of the nations while reducing it for others.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/feels-like-a-hostile-takeover-federal-employees-concerned-as-trump-aide-musks-allies-lock-them-out-of-key-systems-8682197">'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/yeDu0YKRCOGFt8WQyEwn.png" alt=" Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the civilian government workforce, which consists of 2.2 million employees, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Aides to Elon Musk, who have been put in charge of the US government's human resources agency, have reportedly blocked career civil servants from accessing computer systems containing the personal details of millions of federal employees, according to sources cited by Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eight-outgoing-aap-mlas-join-bjp-four-days-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-election-8681845">Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/NuTGdCgXJQOy1qCZyHe7.png" alt=" Arvind Kejriwal Photograph: (PTI) ">
A day after eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs resigned from the party, they joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This comes just four days before the Delhi Assembly election.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-what-bihar-got-in-budget-nitish-kumar-bjp-nda-8681663">Union Budget 2025: Major sops for Bihar ahead of assembly polls. All you need to know</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/LziDS5xriltaqJ11Axmm.png" alt=" Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (PTI/Wion Web team) ">
Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later in 2025, the Indian central government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), announced major sops for the politically significant state on Saturday (Feb 1) in the 2025 Union Budget.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-long-was-nirmala-sitharamans-2025-union-budget-speech-heres-how-it-compares-to-her-past-records-8681759">How long was Nirmala Sitharaman's 2025 Union Budget speech? Here&rsquo;s how it compares to her past records</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/9Egpch90b20l33TSooJb.png" alt=" Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Photograph: (PTI) ">
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/india-budget-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Union Budget 2025&nbsp;</a>on Saturday (Feb 1), and her speech lasted for 77 minutes, which is shorter than the previous year's speech, which was for 85 minutes.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batting-great-sachin-tendulkar-conferred-with-ck-nayudu-lifetime-achievement-award-8682178">Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/fBo4v2O2rgsq1lyP0wLZ.png" alt=" Batting great Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award Photograph: (AFP) ">
Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was conferred with the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 1). Having served Indian cricket for over two decades, Tendulkar received the honour in a special ceremony held in Mumbai.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/delhi-crime-season-3-of-the-netflixs-true-crime-thriller-adds-huma-qureshi-8682046">Delhi Crime: Season 3 of Netflix's true crime thriller adds Huma Qureshi</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/W1OAp0pvpXJR1x7feBvE.jpg" alt=" Huma Qureshi Photograph: (X/humaqureshi) ">
In a new interview with Variety, Huma Qureshi confirmed that she will be playing the main antagonist in the third season of Netflix&rsquo;s Delhi Crime, going head-to-head with Shefali Shah&rsquo;s DCP Vartika Chaturvedi.
&nbsp;
<div class="responsive-ad-css">
<div class="ads-div-style over-hidden article-mid-ads-style bottom-margin"></div>
</div>
&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 news from across the world.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the second budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term on Saturday (Feb 1). This budget outlines key financial policies for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Feb 1) released three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners. A mid-sized air ambulance aircraft carrying a sick child and five others crashed on Friday (Jan 31) night shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The plane went down in a residential neighbourhood, sparking at least six house fires. Click on the headlines to read more Key takeaways from Union Budget 2025 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the second budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term on Saturday (Feb 1). This budget outlines key financial policies for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners The Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Feb 1) released three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners. Philadelphia plane crash: Sick child, mother among dead | What we know so far A mid-sized air ambulance aircraft carrying a sick child and five others crashed on Friday (Jan 31) night shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The plane went down in a residential neighbourhood, sparking at least six house fires. Union Budget 2025: India hikes foreign aid to Maldives, but THIS country tops the chart As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive budget on Saturday (Feb 1), her budget speech also highlighted India's foreign aid to different countries, increasing aid for some of the nations while reducing it for others. 'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems Aides to Elon Musk, who have been put in charge of the US government's human resources agency, have reportedly blocked career civil servants from accessing computer systems containing the personal details of millions of federal employees, according to sources cited by Reuters. Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election A day after eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs resigned from the party, they joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This comes just four days before the Delhi Assembly election. Union Budget 2025: Major sops for Bihar ahead of assembly polls. All you need to know Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later in 2025, the Indian central government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), announced major sops for the politically significant state on Saturday (Feb 1) in the 2025 Union Budget. How long was Nirmala Sitharaman's 2025 Union Budget speech? Here’s how it compares to her past records Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 on Saturday (Feb 1), and her speech lasted for 77 minutes, which is shorter than the previous year's speech, which was for 85 minutes. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was conferred with the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 1). Having served Indian cricket for over two decades, Tendulkar received the honour in a special ceremony held in Mumbai. Delhi Crime: Season 3 of Netflix's true crime thriller adds Huma Qureshi In a new interview with Variety, Huma Qureshi confirmed that she will be playing the main antagonist in the third season of Netflix’s Delhi Crime, going head-to-head with Shefali Shah’s DCP Vartika Chaturvedi.

Top 10 world news: Key takeaways from 2025 Union Budget; Hamas releases three Israeli hostages, and more

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive budget on Saturday (Feb 1), her budget speech also highlighted on India's foreign aid to different countries, increasing aid for some of the nations, while reducing some for others.&nbsp;
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) allocated a total of Rs 5,483 crores in aid to foreign nations, which majorly covers allocations for neighbouring and strategic countries.&nbsp;
India's aid to foreign countries has given primacy to its "Neighbourhood First", with more than 60 per cent of the budget assigned for immediate neighbours.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2025-key-takeaways-from-major-tax-cuts-to-job-creation-push-8682017" rel="dofollow">Union Budget 2025: From major tax cuts to job creation push | 9 key takeaways</a>
<h2>Bhutan takes top spot&nbsp;</h2>
As per the budget, Bhutan continues to be India's largest foreign aid receiver, as it has been allocated Rs 2,150 crore in the 2025-2026 budget. The aid has been hiked from last year's allocation of Rs 2,068 crore.&nbsp;
<h2>Hike in Maldives aid&nbsp;</h2>
India has increased its budget for providing aid to the Maldives from Rs 400 crore to Rs 600 crore. The hike in Maldives aid marks great significance as it comes as Male tries to mend relations with Delhi.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-long-was-nirmala-sitharamans-2025-union-budget-speech-heres-how-it-compares-to-her-past-records-8681759" rel="dofollow">How long was Nirmala Sitharaman's 2025 Union Budget speech? Here&rsquo;s how it compares to her past records</a>
Out of the total allocated budget, Rs 1,80,000 crore has been earmarked to the armed forces for capital expenditure that largely includes purchasing new weapons, aircraft, warships, and other military hardware.&nbsp;
Moreover, it has outlined Rs 6,81,210 crore as the defence outlay for 2025-26, higher than the current fiscal's allocation of Rs 6.22 lakh crore.&nbsp;
Also read: I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/implications-of-the-union-budget-2025-26-on-indias-sustainable-development-8682018" rel="dofollow">mplications of the union budget 2025-26 on India&rsquo;s sustainable development</a>
<h2>Reduction in Afghanistan's aid&nbsp;</h2>
According to this year's budget, Afghanistan's aid has been reduced from Rs 200 crore last year to Rs 100 crore in 2025-26.&nbsp;
This marks a sharp decline from the Rs 207 crore allocated to the country two years ago.&nbsp;
For some time now, India has been cautious in dealing with the Taliban government, as it has limited its engagement to humanitarian aid and economic cooperation.&nbsp;
<h2>Hike in Myanmar's aid&nbsp;</h2>
Myanmar's allocation has increased from Rs 250 crore last year to Rs 350 crore for 2025-2026 as the country has been dealing with the ongoing turmoil.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/simplified-kyc-process-coming-in-2025-with-new-central-registry-8681980" rel="dofollow">Budget 2025: Simplified KYC process coming in 2025 with new central registry</a>
<h2>Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh&nbsp;</h2>
India has allocated Rs 700 crore for Nepal, while the allocation for Sri Lanka has seen a hike from Rs 245 crore to Rs 300 crore.&nbsp;
The aid to Bangladesh remains unchanged at Rs 120 crore amid the ongoing diplomatic row between the two nations.&nbsp;
<h2>Africa</h2>
Aid to African nations has been hiked to Rs 225 crore from Rs 200 crore last year.&nbsp;
<h2>Latin America</h2>
The aid for Latin America has also increased from Rs 30 crore to Rs 60 crore.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the aid allocation for Chabahar Port in Iran stays the same at Rs 100 crore.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) allocated Rs 5,483 crores in aid to foreign nations, which majorly covers allocations for neighbouring and strategic countries. 

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive budget on Saturday (Feb 1), her budget speech also highlighted on India's foreign aid to different countries, increasing aid for some of the nations, while reducing some for others. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) allocated a total of Rs 5,483 crores in aid to foreign nations, which majorly covers allocations for neighbouring and strategic countries. India's aid to foreign countries has given primacy to its "Neighbourhood First", with more than 60 per cent of the budget assigned for immediate neighbours. Also read: Union Budget 2025: From major tax cuts to job creation push | 9 key takeaways Bhutan takes top spot As per the budget, Bhutan continues to be India's largest foreign aid receiver, as it has been allocated Rs 2,150 crore in the 2025-2026 budget. The aid has been hiked from last year's allocation of Rs 2,068 crore. Hike in Maldives aid India has increased its budget for providing aid to the Maldives from Rs 400 crore to Rs 600 crore. The hike in Maldives aid marks great significance as it comes as Male tries to mend relations with Delhi. Also read: How long was Nirmala Sitharaman's 2025 Union Budget speech? Here’s how it compares to her past records Out of the total allocated budget, Rs 1,80,000 crore has been earmarked to the armed forces for capital expenditure that largely includes purchasing new weapons, aircraft, warships, and other military hardware. Moreover, it has outlined Rs 6,81,210 crore as the defence outlay for 2025-26, higher than the current fiscal's allocation of Rs 6.22 lakh crore. Also read: Implications of the union budget 2025-26 on India’s sustainable development Reduction in Afghanistan's aid According to this year's budget, Afghanistan's aid has been reduced from Rs 200 crore last year to Rs 100 crore in 2025-26. This marks a sharp decline from the Rs 207 crore allocated to the country two years ago. For some time now, India has been cautious in dealing with the Taliban government, as it has limited its engagement to humanitarian aid and economic cooperation. Hike in Myanmar's aid Myanmar's allocation has increased from Rs 250 crore last year to Rs 350 crore for 2025-2026 as the country has been dealing with the ongoing turmoil. Also read: Budget 2025: Simplified KYC process coming in 2025 with new central registry Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh India has allocated Rs 700 crore for Nepal, while the allocation for Sri Lanka has seen a hike from Rs 245 crore to Rs 300 crore. The aid to Bangladesh remains unchanged at Rs 120 crore amid the ongoing diplomatic row between the two nations. Africa Aid to African nations has been hiked to Rs 225 crore from Rs 200 crore last year. Latin America The aid for Latin America has also increased from Rs 30 crore to Rs 60 crore. Meanwhile, the aid allocation for Chabahar Port in Iran stays the same at Rs 100 crore. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: India hikes foreign aid to Maldives, but THIS country tops the chart

Aides to Elon Musk, who have been put in charge of the US government's human resources agency, have reportedly blocked career civil servants from accessing computer systems containing the personal details of millions of federal employees, according to sources cited by Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-nominated-for-nobel-peace-prize-for-free-speech-advocacy-billionaire-turns-down-offer-8678649" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer</a>
Since taking office just 11 days ago, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">President Donald Trump</a> has launched an extensive revamp of the government, dismissing hundreds of civil servants to reduce bureaucracy. 
Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the civilian government workforce, which consists of 2.2 million employees, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Two officials, who spoke to Reuters anonymously due to fear of retaliation, revealed that some senior career employees at OPM have had their access revoked to certain data systems. These include the Enterprise Human Resources Integration database, which holds sensitive information such as dates of birth, Social Security numbers, home addresses, pay grades, appraisals, and length of service of government workers.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
"We have no visibility into what they are doing with the computer and data systems," one official told Reuters. 
"That is creating great concern. There is no oversight. It creates real cybersecurity and hacking implications," they added.
While affected officials can still access functions such as email, they are now unable to view the extensive datasets covering all aspects of the federal workforce.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366">Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
<h2>'It feels like a hostile takeover'</h2>
A team comprising current and former Musk employees took charge of OPM on 20th January, the day of Trump&rsquo;s inauguration. One OPM employee told Reuters that sofa beds have been set up on the fifth floor of the agency&rsquo;s headquarters, which houses the director&rsquo;s office and requires either a security badge or an escort for access. The beds were installed so the team could work around the clock, one employee said. "It feels like a hostile takeover," the employee told Reuters.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the government workforce, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management.

Aides to Elon Musk, who have been put in charge of the US government's human resources agency, have reportedly blocked career civil servants from accessing computer systems containing the personal details of millions of federal employees, according to sources cited by Reuters. Also read: Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer Since taking office just 11 days ago, President Donald Trump has launched an extensive revamp of the government, dismissing hundreds of civil servants to reduce bureaucracy. Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the civilian government workforce, which consists of 2.2 million employees, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Two officials, who spoke to Reuters anonymously due to fear of retaliation, revealed that some senior career employees at OPM have had their access revoked to certain data systems. These include the Enterprise Human Resources Integration database, which holds sensitive information such as dates of birth, Social Security numbers, home addresses, pay grades, appraisals, and length of service of government workers. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts "We have no visibility into what they are doing with the computer and data systems," one official told Reuters. "That is creating great concern. There is no oversight. It creates real cybersecurity and hacking implications," they added. While affected officials can still access functions such as email, they are now unable to view the extensive datasets covering all aspects of the federal workforce. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom 'It feels like a hostile takeover' A team comprising current and former Musk employees took charge of OPM on 20th January, the day of Trump’s inauguration. One OPM employee told Reuters that sofa beds have been set up on the fifth floor of the agency’s headquarters, which houses the director’s office and requires either a security badge or an escort for access. The beds were installed so the team could work around the clock, one employee said. "It feels like a hostile takeover," the employee told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems

After several claims on the internet that Jo Ellis, a transgender pilot of the Virginia Army National Guard, was the captain of the downed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-hawk-pilot-atc-missteps-obama-or-dei-hiring-whos-really-to-blame-8678560">Black Hawk</a>, she posted a video to reject the claims.&nbsp;
She took to the social media platform Facebook and posted a video as &ldquo;proof of life&rdquo; to reassure that she was alive and was not operating the helicopter.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585">Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
&ldquo;I understand some people have associated me with the crash in DC and that is false," she said in the video.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is insulting to the families to try to tie this to some sort of political agenda. They don&rsquo;t deserve that. I don&rsquo;t deserve this," she further added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6mcgx5u-rl5cj6wj-978x76hx">
JUST RELEASED VIDEO OF JO ELLIS ALIVE! 🚨 Rumors that Jo Ellis was the pilot in the DC crash are FALSE. Let's get the facts straight and stop spreading misinformation. <a href="https://t.co/QgjOIB0RLe">pic.twitter.com/QgjOIB0RLe</a>
&mdash; American Citizen 🇺🇸 (@realtalkstruth) <a href="https://twitter.com/realtalkstruth/status/1885342379432886596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
A post on the Musk-owned X on January 31 said, "The Blackhawk helicopter pilot involved in the Washington D.C. Reagan National Airport #planecrash has been identified as transgender military pilot Jo Ellis."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575">Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
&ldquo;Reports indicate Ellis attempted to take out three other passenger planes before colliding midair with American Airlines Flight 5342 over the Potomac. Just one day before the disaster, Ellis appeared on the Michael Smerconish podcast, slamming Trump's military trans ban," it further added.&nbsp;
The rumours erupted after US President Donald Trump and his supporters tried to link the Washington, DC crash to so-called &ldquo;DEI programs" and to the fact that Ellis is transgender.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/washington-plane-crash-no-survivors-expected-67-feared-dead-8676498">Washington plane crash: No survivors expected, 67 feared dead</a>
As per the reports, the crashed chopper was carrying three US Army soldiers while the commercial plane had 60 passengers onboard. Around 67 dead bodies have been recovered so far - and Trump has confirmed that no one is likely to be alive after the crash.&nbsp;
The lies further escalated when the Pentagon announced the names of the two deceased pilots but refused to reveal the third one &ldquo;at the request of the family.&rdquo;
Several posts emerged on the internet with claims that the third pilot was transgender, and it was Ellis speculating that she did it after Trump's ban on transgender people from the US military.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/washington-plane-crash-investigations-underway-into-tragedy-8676218">Washington Plane crash: Investigations underway into tragedy</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Trending | World | She took to the social media platform Facebook and posted a video as “proof of life” to reassure that she was alive and was not operating the helicopter. 

After several claims on the internet that Jo Ellis, a transgender pilot of the Virginia Army National Guard, was the captain of the downed Black Hawk, she posted a video to reject the claims. She took to the social media platform Facebook and posted a video as “proof of life” to reassure that she was alive and was not operating the helicopter. Also read: Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on “I understand some people have associated me with the crash in DC and that is false," she said in the video. “It is insulting to the families to try to tie this to some sort of political agenda. They don’t deserve that. I don’t deserve this," she further added. JUST RELEASED VIDEO OF JO ELLIS ALIVE! 🚨 Rumors that Jo Ellis was the pilot in the DC crash are FALSE. Let's get the facts straight and stop spreading misinformation. pic.twitter.com/QgjOIB0RLe — American Citizen 🇺🇸 (@realtalkstruth) January 31, 2025 A post on the Musk-owned X on January 31 said, "The Blackhawk helicopter pilot involved in the Washington D.C. Reagan National Airport #planecrash has been identified as transgender military pilot Jo Ellis." Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash “Reports indicate Ellis attempted to take out three other passenger planes before colliding midair with American Airlines Flight 5342 over the Potomac. Just one day before the disaster, Ellis appeared on the Michael Smerconish podcast, slamming Trump's military trans ban," it further added. The rumours erupted after US President Donald Trump and his supporters tried to link the Washington, DC crash to so-called “DEI programs" and to the fact that Ellis is transgender. WATCH: Washington plane crash: No survivors expected, 67 feared dead As per the reports, the crashed chopper was carrying three US Army soldiers while the commercial plane had 60 passengers onboard. Around 67 dead bodies have been recovered so far - and Trump has confirmed that no one is likely to be alive after the crash. The lies further escalated when the Pentagon announced the names of the two deceased pilots but refused to reveal the third one “at the request of the family.” Several posts emerged on the internet with claims that the third pilot was transgender, and it was Ellis speculating that she did it after Trump's ban on transgender people from the US military. WATCH: Washington Plane crash: Investigations underway into tragedy (With inputs from agencies)

'I don’t deserve this': Jo Ellis, transgender pilot wrongly named in Washington plane crash speaks out. Who is she? | WATCH

A mid-sized air ambulance aircraft carrying a sick child and five others crashed on Friday (Jan 31) night shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The plane went down in a residential neighbourhood, sparking at least six house fires.
All six people on board the plane that crashed in Philadelphia last night were killed, a statement on behalf of Mayor Cherelle Parker said. 
Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, a Mexico-based company operating the Learjet 55, said, "At this time we cannot confirm any survivors." 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-hawk-pilot-atc-missteps-obama-or-dei-hiring-whos-really-to-blame-8678560" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC&nbsp;plane&nbsp;crash?</a>
<h2>'More innocent souls lost'</h2>
Describing the incident as an "awful aviation disaster," Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said, "We know that there will be loss."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">US President Donald Trump</a> expressed his condolences on social media and wrote on Truth Social, "So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent souls lost. Our people are totally engaged. First Responders are already being given credit for doing a great job."
Footage of the crash circulating online captures the aircraft descending rapidly before erupting into a massive fireball.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
According to Mexico&rsquo;s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, all six individuals aboard the aircraft were Mexican nationals. The flight was en route to Springfield, Missouri.
The Learjet 55 took off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport at approximately 18:07 local time, crashing less than four miles (6.4 km) away moments later.
Officials have urged residents to report any debris sightings and avoid touching wreckage.
<h2>What do we know about the crash?</h2>
FlightAware, a flight tracking website, indicates that the aircraft was operated by Med Jets and had landed in Philadelphia from Florida less than four hours before the crash. In an audio recording cited by The Independent, air traffic controllers can be heard attempting to make contact with the aircraft. One controller states, "We have a lost aircraft, we&rsquo;re not entirely sure what happened and are trying to figure it out for now."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-american-airlines-jet-black-hawk-helicopter-critical-failures-deadliest-us-air-disaster-in-24-years-8678043" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster&nbsp;in&nbsp;24&nbsp;years</a>
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the crash.
This incident comes after another aviation disaster just two days earlier in Washington, DC, where a collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter reportedly resulted in the deaths of all 67 people on board both aircraft. It was the deadliest plane crash in the US in over two decades.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, a Mexico-based company, said, "At this time we cannot confirm any survivors." US President Donald Trump expressed his condolences on social media.

A mid-sized air ambulance aircraft carrying a sick child and five others crashed on Friday (Jan 31) night shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The plane went down in a residential neighbourhood, sparking at least six house fires. All six people on board the plane that crashed in Philadelphia last night were killed, a statement on behalf of Mayor Cherelle Parker said. Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, a Mexico-based company operating the Learjet 55, said, "At this time we cannot confirm any survivors." Also read: Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash? 'More innocent souls lost' Describing the incident as an "awful aviation disaster," Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said, "We know that there will be loss." US President Donald Trump expressed his condolences on social media and wrote on Truth Social, "So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent souls lost. Our people are totally engaged. First Responders are already being given credit for doing a great job." Footage of the crash circulating online captures the aircraft descending rapidly before erupting into a massive fireball. Also read: Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on According to Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, all six individuals aboard the aircraft were Mexican nationals. The flight was en route to Springfield, Missouri. The Learjet 55 took off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport at approximately 18:07 local time, crashing less than four miles (6.4 km) away moments later. Officials have urged residents to report any debris sightings and avoid touching wreckage. What do we know about the crash? FlightAware, a flight tracking website, indicates that the aircraft was operated by Med Jets and had landed in Philadelphia from Florida less than four hours before the crash. In an audio recording cited by The Independent, air traffic controllers can be heard attempting to make contact with the aircraft. One controller states, "We have a lost aircraft, we’re not entirely sure what happened and are trying to figure it out for now." Also read: Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the crash. This incident comes after another aviation disaster just two days earlier in Washington, DC, where a collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter reportedly resulted in the deaths of all 67 people on board both aircraft. It was the deadliest plane crash in the US in over two decades. (With inputs from agencies)

Philadelphia plane crash: Sick child, mother among dead | What we know so far

The Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Feb 1) released three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;
The three hostages were handed over to the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) troops, as part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire agreement</a>.&nbsp;
The military released a video showing the release of hostages Yarden Bibas and Ofer Calderon. Both the hostages were brought back to Israel after 484 days in Hamas captivity.&nbsp;
A third hostage, Keith Siegel, was also released.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-three-israeli-hostages-to-be-free-saturday-8677839" rel="dofollow">Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be freed Saturday</a>
Siegel&rsquo;s family reacted with joy as they watched a video of him being released. "Here he is, here he is,&rdquo; cried his wife Aviva.
Siegel was taken captive with Aviva from Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the Hamas-led invasion on October 7, 2023.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Calderon's family said they are &ldquo;overwhelmed with joy, relief and emotion&rdquo; after his release by Hamas. &ldquo;We have witnessed how, through extraordinary mental strength, he survived this hell. Ofer endured months in a nightmare, and we are proud of his ability to survive and hold onto the hope of embracing his children again.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-death-of-military-chief-mohammed-deif-accused-by-israel-of-masterminding-october-7-attack-8676534" rel="dofollow">Hamas confirms death of military chief Mohammed Deif, accused by Israel of masterminding October 7 attack</a>
<h2>Palestinian prisoners freed&nbsp;</h2>
Israel has released 183 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday (Feb 1) in exchange for three Israeli hostages released by Hamas.&nbsp;
The Israel Prison Service said that some of the prisoners were transferred from the Ofer prison to the West Bank, while the rest were sent from Ketziot prison to the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-hamas-releases-seven-more-hostages-including-two-israelis-five-thai-citizens-8675164" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens</a>
The prisoners were seen reuniting with their families. They are now expected to undergo a medical check.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(More inputs from agencies)

World: The military released a video showing the release of hostages Yarden Bibas and Ofer Calderon. The hostages were brought back to Israel after 484 days in Hamas captivity. 

The Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Feb 1) released three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners. The three hostages were handed over to the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) troops, as part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The military released a video showing the release of hostages Yarden Bibas and Ofer Calderon. Both the hostages were brought back to Israel after 484 days in Hamas captivity. A third hostage, Keith Siegel, was also released. Also read: Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be freed Saturday Siegel’s family reacted with joy as they watched a video of him being released. "Here he is, here he is,” cried his wife Aviva. Siegel was taken captive with Aviva from Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the Hamas-led invasion on October 7, 2023. Meanwhile, Calderon's family said they are “overwhelmed with joy, relief and emotion” after his release by Hamas. “We have witnessed how, through extraordinary mental strength, he survived this hell. Ofer endured months in a nightmare, and we are proud of his ability to survive and hold onto the hope of embracing his children again.” Also read: Hamas confirms death of military chief Mohammed Deif, accused by Israel of masterminding October 7 attack Palestinian prisoners freed Israel has released 183 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday (Feb 1) in exchange for three Israeli hostages released by Hamas. The Israel Prison Service said that some of the prisoners were transferred from the Ofer prison to the West Bank, while the rest were sent from Ketziot prison to the Gaza Strip. Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens The prisoners were seen reuniting with their families. They are now expected to undergo a medical check. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (More inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases three Israeli hostages in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners

A small medical transport plane carrying six people crashed into a densely populated neighbourhood in northeast Philadelphia on Friday (Jan 31) evening, setting homes and vehicles ablaze.&nbsp;
The Learjet 55, en route to Missouri, had taken off just minutes earlier from Northeast Philadelphia Airport before plunging into a row of buildings, sending debris flying across the area. &nbsp;
The aircraft, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, was transporting a child patient, their escort, and four crew members. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro described the incident as an "awful aviation disaster," acknowledging the likelihood of casualties. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-helicopter-black-box-found-41-of-67-victim-bodies-recovered-divers-continue-to-search-for-remaining-26-8679585">Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on</a>
<h2>A fireball erupts in a residential block &nbsp;</h2>
Flames quickly spread through homes and parked cars, forcing residents to flee the "awful aviation disaster". Responders arrived within minutes, battling the fire and searching for survivors amid the wreckage. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker urged the public to stay clear of the crash site.&nbsp;
Local residents described the terrifying moment the plane went down. &nbsp;
"I just saw a plane basically hit the building and it exploded. The sky lit up and I pulled over and basically, it was just real bad around here," said a witness speaking to WPVI-TV, as reported by the BBC news.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-american-airlines-jet-black-hawk-helicopter-critical-failures-deadliest-us-air-disaster-in-24-years-8678043">Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years</a>
<h2>Federal investigation underway</h2>
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Officials initially reported two people aboard the flight but later confirmed six.
Flight data shows the plane had arrived from Florida earlier in the day before taking off for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri. Weather conditions at the time included rain and winds of 10-20 mph, but it remains unclear if they contributed to the crash. &nbsp;
<h2>Aviation safety concerns grow &nbsp;</h2>
This crash comes just two days after a deadly collision in Washington, DC, involving a commercial jet and a military helicopter, which claimed 67 lives. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | The Learjet 55, en route to Missouri, had taken off just minutes earlier from Northeast Philadelphia Airport before plunging into a row of buildings, sending debris flying across the area.  

A small medical transport plane carrying six people crashed into a densely populated neighbourhood in northeast Philadelphia on Friday (Jan 31) evening, setting homes and vehicles ablaze. The Learjet 55, en route to Missouri, had taken off just minutes earlier from Northeast Philadelphia Airport before plunging into a row of buildings, sending debris flying across the area. The aircraft, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, was transporting a child patient, their escort, and four crew members. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro described the incident as an "awful aviation disaster," acknowledging the likelihood of casualties. Also Read | Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on A fireball erupts in a residential block Flames quickly spread through homes and parked cars, forcing residents to flee the "awful aviation disaster". Responders arrived within minutes, battling the fire and searching for survivors amid the wreckage. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker urged the public to stay clear of the crash site. Local residents described the terrifying moment the plane went down. "I just saw a plane basically hit the building and it exploded. The sky lit up and I pulled over and basically, it was just real bad around here," said a witness speaking to WPVI-TV, as reported by the BBC news. Also Read | Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years Federal investigation underway The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Officials initially reported two people aboard the flight but later confirmed six. Flight data shows the plane had arrived from Florida earlier in the day before taking off for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri. Weather conditions at the time included rain and winds of 10-20 mph, but it remains unclear if they contributed to the crash. Aviation safety concerns grow This crash comes just two days after a deadly collision in Washington, DC, involving a commercial jet and a military helicopter, which claimed 67 lives. (With inputs from agencies)

Small plane crashes in Philadelphia, setting homes on fire; child patient among those on board

US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday (Jan 31) that his administration has engaged in &ldquo;very serious&rdquo; discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;
In remarks made during an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office, Trump suggested that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon take de&nbsp;stepscisive to bring the war to a close.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We will be speaking, and I think we&rsquo;ll perhaps do something that&rsquo;ll be significant,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;We want to end that war. That war would have not started if I was president.&rdquo;
While Trump did not specify who from his administration had been in contact with Russian officials, he emphasised that the two sides were already in communication. When asked directly if he had spoken to Putin himself, Trump offered a cryptic response, saying, &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want to say that.&rdquo;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596">'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings</a>
<h2>Putin's praise for Trump</h2>
In a recent interview with Russian state television, President Vladimir Putin praised Trump as a &ldquo;clever and pragmatic man&rdquo; who prioritises US interests. Putin also suggested that had Trump been president during the lead-up to the 2022 invasion, the crisis in Ukraine could have been avoided.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We always had a business-like, pragmatic but also trusting relationship with the current US president,&rdquo; Putin said. &ldquo;I couldn&rsquo;t disagree with him that if he had been president if they hadn&rsquo;t stolen victory from him in 2020, the crisis that emerged in Ukraine in 2022 could have been avoided.&rdquo;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried?</a>
<h2>Trump's position on Ukraine and Putin</h2>
Throughout his campaign and afterwards, Trump has repeatedly stated that he believes the war in Ukraine would never have occurred if he were still in office. This assertion is despite his tenure as president during the buildup of conflict in eastern Ukraine where fighting escalated between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists prior to Putin&rsquo;s 2022 invasion.&nbsp;
Trump has also criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not reaching a deal with Putin to prevent the conflict.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World| Trump suggested that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon take decisive steps to bring the war to a close. 

US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday (Jan 31) that his administration has engaged in “very serious” discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine. In remarks made during an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office, Trump suggested that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon take de stepscisive to bring the war to a close. “We will be speaking, and I think we’ll perhaps do something that’ll be significant,” Trump said. “We want to end that war. That war would have not started if I was president.” While Trump did not specify who from his administration had been in contact with Russian officials, he emphasised that the two sides were already in communication. When asked directly if he had spoken to Putin himself, Trump offered a cryptic response, saying, “I don’t want to say that.” Also Read | 'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings Putin's praise for Trump In a recent interview with Russian state television, President Vladimir Putin praised Trump as a “clever and pragmatic man” who prioritises US interests. Putin also suggested that had Trump been president during the lead-up to the 2022 invasion, the crisis in Ukraine could have been avoided. “We always had a business-like, pragmatic but also trusting relationship with the current US president,” Putin said. “I couldn’t disagree with him that if he had been president if they hadn’t stolen victory from him in 2020, the crisis that emerged in Ukraine in 2022 could have been avoided.” Also Read | Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why should Americans be worried? Trump's position on Ukraine and Putin Throughout his campaign and afterwards, Trump has repeatedly stated that he believes the war in Ukraine would never have occurred if he were still in office. This assertion is despite his tenure as president during the buildup of conflict in eastern Ukraine where fighting escalated between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists prior to Putin’s 2022 invasion. Trump has also criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not reaching a deal with Putin to prevent the conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict

Dozens of FBI agents and supervisors involved in now-dropped criminal investigations into President Donald Trump are facing termination, suggest reports on Friday (Jan 31). Quoting sources, US media publications, including CNN and NBC News, indicated that a sweeping purge is targeting senior FBI officials and field office heads. &nbsp;
This come as Trump on Friday (January 31), in what could be perceived as a veiled threat, said that all federal employees are replaceable. While the US President's statement was about the end of Work from Home for federal employees, it could very well be signalling the mass firings.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why even Americans should&nbsp;be&nbsp;worried?</a>
<h2>'Retire, resign or be fired'</h2>
According to a CNN report citing unnamed sources, FBI agents who investigated the US Capitol riot &mdash; also known as the Jan 6 riots when Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol seeking to overturn Joe Biden's election win &mdash; are "being evaluated for possible removal as soon as the end of Friday".
The report adds that six senior FBI leaders have been ordered to "retire, resign, or be fired by Monday."
Meanwhile, NBC reported that over 20 FBI field office heads, including those in Washington and Miami, are under review for dismissal.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-must-accept-returned-migrants-from-us-trump-envoy-warns-maduro-8679443">Venezuela must accept returned migrants from US, Trump envoy warns Maduro</a>
The Washington Post suggested that "potentially hundreds" of FBI agents could face removal as officials evaluate their roles in investigations tied to Trump and his supporters. "Officials are working to identify potentially hundreds (of FBI agents) for possible termination," in reported. &nbsp;&nbsp; The FBI's acting director, Brian Driscoll, appointed by Trump after his re-election, has, however, reportedly refused to approve the mass firings.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump's retribution?</h2>
The potential FBI firings come after the Justice Department, earlier this week, dismissed several officials linked to Trump-related prosecutions. A department spokesperson stated that the decision stemmed from the attorney general's concerns that these individuals "could not be trusted to faithfully implement the president's agenda." &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-too-complicated-to-understand-trump-says-helicopter-involved-in-washington-crash-was-flying-too-high-8678961">'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'</a>
Kash Patel, Trump's former advisor and now his nominee to lead the FBI, during his confirmation hearing on Thursday (Jan 31) assured the Senate Judiciary Committee that "all FBI employees will be protected against political retribution." However, reports of widespread terminations persist.
Patel, when asked about plans to punish FBI agents involved in the Trump investigations denied knowledge and said "I am not aware of that."
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Over 20 FBI field office heads are under review for dismissal, and potentially hundreds of agents could face removal due to their roles in Trump-related probes.

Dozens of FBI agents and supervisors involved in now-dropped criminal investigations into President Donald Trump are facing termination, suggest reports on Friday (Jan 31). Quoting sources, US media publications, including CNN and NBC News, indicated that a sweeping purge is targeting senior FBI officials and field office heads. This come as Trump on Friday (January 31), in what could be perceived as a veiled threat, said that all federal employees are replaceable. While the US President's statement was about the end of Work from Home for federal employees, it could very well be signalling the mass firings. Also read | Trump’s tariffs to hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why even Americans should be worried? 'Retire, resign or be fired' According to a CNN report citing unnamed sources, FBI agents who investigated the US Capitol riot — also known as the Jan 6 riots when Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol seeking to overturn Joe Biden's election win — are "being evaluated for possible removal as soon as the end of Friday". The report adds that six senior FBI leaders have been ordered to "retire, resign, or be fired by Monday." Meanwhile, NBC reported that over 20 FBI field office heads, including those in Washington and Miami, are under review for dismissal. Also read | Venezuela must accept returned migrants from US, Trump envoy warns Maduro The Washington Post suggested that "potentially hundreds" of FBI agents could face removal as officials evaluate their roles in investigations tied to Trump and his supporters. "Officials are working to identify potentially hundreds (of FBI agents) for possible termination," in reported. The FBI's acting director, Brian Driscoll, appointed by Trump after his re-election, has, however, reportedly refused to approve the mass firings. Trump's retribution? The potential FBI firings come after the Justice Department, earlier this week, dismissed several officials linked to Trump-related prosecutions. A department spokesperson stated that the decision stemmed from the attorney general's concerns that these individuals "could not be trusted to faithfully implement the president's agenda." Also read | 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high' Kash Patel, Trump's former advisor and now his nominee to lead the FBI, during his confirmation hearing on Thursday (Jan 31) assured the Senate Judiciary Committee that "all FBI employees will be protected against political retribution." However, reports of widespread terminations persist. Patel, when asked about plans to punish FBI agents involved in the Trump investigations denied knowledge and said "I am not aware of that." (With inputs from agencies)

'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings

Washington DC Plane Crash: Recovery efforts in the Potomac River continue as divers look for remaining victims of the catastrophic midair collision between a US military Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines Bombardier jet late on Wednesday (Jan 29).&nbsp;
Meanwhile, investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on Friday (Jan 31) retrieved the military helicopter's "black box," which appears to be intact, NTSB member Todd Inman told the press.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429">'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67</a>
<h2>Helicopter black box found</h2>
The helicopter's black box was recovered hours after the recorders for the passenger plane, were recovered on Thursday night. While the plane's data recorder was found in "good condition," its cockpit voice recorder "had water intrusion."&nbsp;
Inman said that the investigators were trying to deal with the water damage and had a "very high level of confidence" that they would get information from that device.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-hawk-pilot-atc-missteps-obama-or-dei-hiring-whos-really-to-blame-8678560">Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC&nbsp;plane&nbsp;crash?</a>
<h2>41 bodies recovered</h2>
The recovery efforts for the remaining victims of the tragic midair collision continue. The crash, which occurred near Washington DC's Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night, claimed 67 lives, making it the deadliest US air disaster in nearly a quarter century. &nbsp;
Thus far, 41 bodies have been pulled from the icy waters, with rescuers optimistic about finding the remaining victims. Recovery teams, as per AFP, are now focusing on lifting the aircraft's fuselage, which is expected to reveal the remaining bodies.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-too-complicated-to-understand-trump-says-helicopter-involved-in-washington-crash-was-flying-too-high-8678961">'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'</a>
"Our dive teams are working in targeted areas and additional Coast Guard assets will arrive this afternoon. The salvage crews... are assessing the work that's going to be needed to recover the aircraft from the water," Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly told a news conference at Reagan National Airport.
"If it (lifting the fuselage) doesn't, we will continue the search," assured Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Discover the latest updates on the Washington DC plane crash, as recovery teams work tirelessly to locate victims from the tragic midair collision involving a Black Hawk helicopter.

Washington DC Plane Crash: Recovery efforts in the Potomac River continue as divers look for remaining victims of the catastrophic midair collision between a US military Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines Bombardier jet late on Wednesday (Jan 29). Meanwhile, investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on Friday (Jan 31) retrieved the military helicopter's "black box," which appears to be intact, NTSB member Todd Inman told the press. Also read | 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67 Helicopter black box found The helicopter's black box was recovered hours after the recorders for the passenger plane, were recovered on Thursday night. While the plane's data recorder was found in "good condition," its cockpit voice recorder "had water intrusion." Inman said that the investigators were trying to deal with the water damage and had a "very high level of confidence" that they would get information from that device. Also read | Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash? 41 bodies recovered The recovery efforts for the remaining victims of the tragic midair collision continue. The crash, which occurred near Washington DC's Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night, claimed 67 lives, making it the deadliest US air disaster in nearly a quarter century. Thus far, 41 bodies have been pulled from the icy waters, with rescuers optimistic about finding the remaining victims. Recovery teams, as per AFP, are now focusing on lifting the aircraft's fuselage, which is expected to reveal the remaining bodies. Also read | 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high' "Our dive teams are working in targeted areas and additional Coast Guard assets will arrive this afternoon. The salvage crews... are assessing the work that's going to be needed to recover the aircraft from the water," Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly told a news conference at Reagan National Airport. "If it (lifting the fuselage) doesn't, we will continue the search," assured Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly. (With inputs from agencies)

Washington Plane Crash: Helicopter black box found; 41 bodies recovered, search for remaining 26 victims on

The grave in western France of the co-founder of the country's main postwar far-right movement Jean Marie Le Pen has been vandalised, his former party said on Friday, denouncing an "unspeakable" act.
Le Pen, who stunned France by reaching the run-off of presidential elections in 2002, died on January 7 aged 96 after a career marked by openly racist and anti-Semitic views.
But his death also prompted an outpouring of respectful tributes -- not just from the movement that he led and which has undergone major change under his daughter Marine Le Pen -- but also the traditional right.
An image posted by Marie Caroline Le Pen, another of his daughters, showed that the stone cross adorning the grave in La Trinite-sur-Mer in Brittany had been smashed into pieces.
It is a family tomb, with his parents buried in the same plot.
"The desecration of Jean-Marie Le Pen's grave is an unspeakable act, committed by those who respect neither the living nor the dead," National Rally (RN) party leader Jordan Bardella said on X.
"I hope that they will be found and severely punished by the judiciary," he added.
<h2>'Respect for the dead'</h2>
Street parties had erupted in some French cities including Paris after Le Pen's death was announced, prompting right-wing Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau to warn against "dancing on a corpse".
"The degradation of the Le Pen family tomb in La Trinite is an absolute abomination," Retailleau wrote on X after the grave vandalisation.
"Respect for the dead is what distinguishes civilisation from barbarism," he added.
Marine Le Pen took over from her father as head of the National Front (FN) in 2011 but rapidly took steps towards making the party an electable force, renaming it the RN and embarking on a policy known as dediabolisation (de-demonisation).
She slung her father out of the party for his anti-Semitic views in 2015. But the pair had reconciled in recent years.
After burying her father alongside her sisters Marie-Caroline and Yann at the cemetery in La Trinite-sur-Mer, Marine Le Pen said she would "never forgive" herself for expelling her father from the party.
"This decision was one of the most difficult of my life. And until the end of my life, I will always ask myself the question: 'could I have done this differently?'", she said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World: Le Pen, who stunned France by reaching the run-off of presidential elections in 2002, died on January 7 aged 96 after a career marked by openly racist and anti-Semitic views.

The grave in western France of the co-founder of the country's main postwar far-right movement Jean Marie Le Pen has been vandalised, his former party said on Friday, denouncing an "unspeakable" act. Le Pen, who stunned France by reaching the run-off of presidential elections in 2002, died on January 7 aged 96 after a career marked by openly racist and anti-Semitic views. But his death also prompted an outpouring of respectful tributes -- not just from the movement that he led and which has undergone major change under his daughter Marine Le Pen -- but also the traditional right. An image posted by Marie Caroline Le Pen, another of his daughters, showed that the stone cross adorning the grave in La Trinite-sur-Mer in Brittany had been smashed into pieces. It is a family tomb, with his parents buried in the same plot. "The desecration of Jean-Marie Le Pen's grave is an unspeakable act, committed by those who respect neither the living nor the dead," National Rally (RN) party leader Jordan Bardella said on X. "I hope that they will be found and severely punished by the judiciary," he added. 'Respect for the dead' Street parties had erupted in some French cities including Paris after Le Pen's death was announced, prompting right-wing Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau to warn against "dancing on a corpse". "The degradation of the Le Pen family tomb in La Trinite is an absolute abomination," Retailleau wrote on X after the grave vandalisation. "Respect for the dead is what distinguishes civilisation from barbarism," he added. Marine Le Pen took over from her father as head of the National Front (FN) in 2011 but rapidly took steps towards making the party an electable force, renaming it the RN and embarking on a policy known as dediabolisation (de-demonisation). She slung her father out of the party for his anti-Semitic views in 2015. But the pair had reconciled in recent years. After burying her father alongside her sisters Marie-Caroline and Yann at the cemetery in La Trinite-sur-Mer, Marine Le Pen said she would "never forgive" herself for expelling her father from the party. "This decision was one of the most difficult of my life. And until the end of my life, I will always ask myself the question: 'could I have done this differently?'", she said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Grave of French far-right politician Jean-Marie Le Pen vandalised, says party

When Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine three years ago, Ukrainian soldiers were ready to sacrifice their lives for their country. However, after three years of conflict, the situation has changed. Desertion has become a pressing issue, drawing significant attention in Ukraine. 
Last week, the government launched an investigation into a brigade whose 56 soldiers disappeared during a training session in France, while hundreds of others are also reportedly missing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-when-russians-hide-north-koreans-shoot-how-pyongyangs-troops-are-reshaping-8633581">'When Russians hide, North Koreans&nbsp;shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war</a>
The brigade's commander has been arrested and faces a 10-year prison sentence for failing to carry out his official duties and not reporting unauthorised absences.
<h2>Ukraine faces severe shortage of soldiers</h2>
Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry units. The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine&rsquo;s parliament, has been debating efforts to increase recruitment. 
Deserters currently face prison sentences of between 12 and 15 years. However, last summer, the parliament removed criminal penalties for those who voluntarily return to their battalions, restoring their full benefits.
<h2>'I&rsquo;m nobody. Just a number'</h2>
A soldier who fought in the village of Tonenke near Avdiivka in 2023 described his experience to The Guardian: &ldquo;When I arrived I was super-motivated. If necessary, I would give my life.&rdquo; 
Over time, though, his enthusiasm faded. &ldquo;The Russians would smash our positions to the ground,&rdquo; he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tulsi-gabbard-confirmation-hearing-us-senate-donald-trumps-director-of-national-intelligence-pick-8676030" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'Not Putin&rsquo;s or Modi&rsquo;s puppet&rsquo;: Trump's US top spy pick Tulsi Gabbard defends loyalty at confirmation hearing</a>
According to him, senior Ukrainian commanders issued unrealistic orders. While defending a destroyed building, a falling panel struck his shoulder. &ldquo;I realised I&rsquo;m nobody. Just a number,&rdquo; he told The Guardian.
In May of that year, he left his post to seek medical treatment and did not return. His commander listed him as AWOL. 
The soldier claimed he attempted to rejoin his brigade in August 2023 but was told he was no longer wanted. 
He is among thousands of Ukrainian soldiers who have left their units. While the exact number remains classified, officials confirmed to The Guardian that it is substantial.
&ldquo;Everybody is tired. The mood has changed. People used to hug soldiers in the streets. Now they worry about being conscripted,&rdquo; he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-ready-for-peace-talks-but-rules-out-speaking-directly-with-illegitimate-zelensky-8662995" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky</a>
&ldquo;One guy lost an arm. Another a leg. Some had bullet wounds. Nobody is completely OK. Even so, we managed to achieve some tasks,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>'I decided to go where nobody can find me'</h2>
Another deserter, who had participated in Ukrainian offensives in the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions, shared his perspective with The Guardian: &ldquo;I reached boiling point. So I decided to go where nobody can find me.&rdquo;
Since then, he has been in hiding. &ldquo;We will see what happens. Maybe I get caught and sent to the frontline,&rdquo; he said. However, he said that he would fight again if Russian forces entered his town or if the Ukrainian military became a fully reformed NATO-style force with better leadership.
<h2>'Problem is big'</h2>
Olha Reshetylova, Ukraine&rsquo;s commissioner for protecting service members&rsquo; rights, recognised the gravity of the situation. She told The Guardian, &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s be honest. The problem is big. It&rsquo;s natural in a situation where you&rsquo;ve had three years of major war. People are exhausted. They want to see their families. Their children are growing up without them. Relationships get broken. Wives and husbands can&rsquo;t wait for ever. They feel alone.&rdquo;
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a complex and complicated problem. We can&rsquo;t solve this with criminal punishment. If it comes to a choice between being killed and going to prison, of course at that moment you will go with the second option,&rdquo; she said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-hints-at-possibility-of-peace-talks-with-russia-says-allies-should-work-on-its-format-8653717" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Zelensky hints at possibility of peace talks with Russia, says allies should work on its &lsquo;format&rsquo;</a>
Reshetylova pointed out that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers remain in their positions and continue to fight. She suggested that the recruitment crisis could be eased if Ukraine&rsquo;s allies committed their own troops. 
&ldquo;As I see it, it is Europe&rsquo;s armies that are absent without leave. They don&rsquo;t understand &ndash; or don&rsquo;t want to understand &ndash; that this is their war too,&rdquo; she said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Russia Ukraine war Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry units. Desertion has become a pressing issue, drawing significant attention. 

When Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine three years ago, Ukrainian soldiers were ready to sacrifice their lives for their country. However, after three years of conflict, the situation has changed. Desertion has become a pressing issue, drawing significant attention in Ukraine. Last week, the government launched an investigation into a brigade whose 56 soldiers disappeared during a training session in France, while hundreds of others are also reportedly missing. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war The brigade's commander has been arrested and faces a 10-year prison sentence for failing to carry out his official duties and not reporting unauthorised absences. Ukraine faces severe shortage of soldiers Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry units. The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, has been debating efforts to increase recruitment. Deserters currently face prison sentences of between 12 and 15 years. However, last summer, the parliament removed criminal penalties for those who voluntarily return to their battalions, restoring their full benefits. 'I’m nobody. Just a number' A soldier who fought in the village of Tonenke near Avdiivka in 2023 described his experience to The Guardian: “When I arrived I was super-motivated. If necessary, I would give my life.” Over time, though, his enthusiasm faded. “The Russians would smash our positions to the ground,” he said. Also read: 'Not Putin’s or Modi’s puppet’: Trump's US top spy pick Tulsi Gabbard defends loyalty at confirmation hearing According to him, senior Ukrainian commanders issued unrealistic orders. While defending a destroyed building, a falling panel struck his shoulder. “I realised I’m nobody. Just a number,” he told The Guardian. In May of that year, he left his post to seek medical treatment and did not return. His commander listed him as AWOL. The soldier claimed he attempted to rejoin his brigade in August 2023 but was told he was no longer wanted. He is among thousands of Ukrainian soldiers who have left their units. While the exact number remains classified, officials confirmed to The Guardian that it is substantial. “Everybody is tired. The mood has changed. People used to hug soldiers in the streets. Now they worry about being conscripted,” he said. Also read: Putin says Russia ready for peace talks but rules out speaking directly with 'illegitimate' Zelensky “One guy lost an arm. Another a leg. Some had bullet wounds. Nobody is completely OK. Even so, we managed to achieve some tasks,” he added. 'I decided to go where nobody can find me' Another deserter, who had participated in Ukrainian offensives in the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions, shared his perspective with The Guardian: “I reached boiling point. So I decided to go where nobody can find me.” Since then, he has been in hiding. “We will see what happens. Maybe I get caught and sent to the frontline,” he said. However, he said that he would fight again if Russian forces entered his town or if the Ukrainian military became a fully reformed NATO-style force with better leadership. 'Problem is big' Olha Reshetylova, Ukraine’s commissioner for protecting service members’ rights, recognised the gravity of the situation. She told The Guardian, “Let’s be honest. The problem is big. It’s natural in a situation where you’ve had three years of major war. People are exhausted. They want to see their families. Their children are growing up without them. Relationships get broken. Wives and husbands can’t wait for ever. They feel alone.” “It’s a complex and complicated problem. We can’t solve this with criminal punishment. If it comes to a choice between being killed and going to prison, of course at that moment you will go with the second option,” she said. Also read: Zelensky hints at possibility of peace talks with Russia, says allies should work on its ‘format’ Reshetylova pointed out that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers remain in their positions and continue to fight. She suggested that the recruitment crisis could be eased if Ukraine’s allies committed their own troops. “As I see it, it is Europe’s armies that are absent without leave. They don’t understand – or don’t want to understand – that this is their war too,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Realised I’m nobody, just a number’: Why Ukrainian soldiers are running away as war with Russia drags on

US President Donald Trump sent an envoy Friday (Jan 31) to Venezuela to warn leftist leader Nicolas Maduro to accept the unconditional return of deported Venezuelans or face consequences.
Richard Grenell, an outspoken ally of Trump who serves in a broad role as envoy for special missions, travelled to Caracas to speak to Maduro as the new administration vows to push a hard line.
"President Trump expects Nicolas Maduro to take back all of the Venezuelan criminals and gang members that have been exported to the United States, and to do so unequivocally and without condition," said Mauricio Claver-Carone, the US special envoy for Latin America.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-tariffs-could-hit-canada-mexico-and-china-tomorrow-why-even-americans-should-be-worried-8679177">Trump&rsquo;s tariffs could hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why even Americans should&nbsp;be&nbsp;worried?</a>
He said that Grenell was also demanding that "American hostages need to be released -- immediately, unequivocally."
"All I would do on this call is urge the Maduro government -- the Maduro regime -- in Venezuela, to heed to Special Envoy Ric Grenell and to his demands and what he puts on the table, because ultimately, there will be consequences otherwise," Claver-Carone told reporters.
Venezuela's communication minister, Freddy Nanez, confirmed on Telegram that Maduro accepted a meeting with Grenell but suggested that the Venezuelan side did not expect agreements.
It would be one of the first known meetings by the second Trump administrations with a government it considers hostile since the inauguration.
Maduro was recently sworn in for a third term despite widespread international concerns about irregularities in the election.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-too-complicated-to-understand-trump-says-helicopter-involved-in-washington-crash-was-flying-too-high-8678961">'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'</a>
Claver-Carone said that the talks did not imply any softening&nbsp;of position on Maduro.
The previous administration of Joe Biden agreed to relax sanctions on oil as part of a deal for American prisoners and free elections.&nbsp;
Venezuela freed 10 Americans in a swap. But Biden reimposed sanctions after Maduro did not follow suit on democracy demands.
Maduro recently announced the capture of seven "mercenaries" and said two were US citizens.
"This is not a quid pro quo, is not a negotiation in exchange for anything. President Trump himself has made very clear we don't need Venezuelan oil," Claver-Carone said.
<h2>Top priority for Trump</h2>
Trump has made deporting undocumented people in the United States a top priority. During his campaign, he described immigrants as "poisoning the blood" of the United States.
Since his return, he has pressed countries to take back deportees -- a top priority for Secretary of State Marco Rubio as he starts a five-nation tour of Latin America on Saturday.
In his first week back in the White House, Trump vowed crushing tariffs on Colombia, a longstanding US ally, after its president called for more humane treatment of repatriated citizens.
The Trump administration quickly ended protections from deportation for more than 600,000 Venezuelans living in the United States under protected status.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-agrees-to-accept-deported-migrants-on-military-planes-averts-trade-war-with-us-8659770">Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants</a>
The Biden administration had allowed them to stay due to the fears for their safety if they return to Venezuela.
Trump also signed a law making it easier to detain migrants who commit crimes, named after 22-year-old Laken Riley, a nursing student murdered by an undocumented Venezuelan migrant who had been arrested twice but released before her killing.
The Venezuelan opposition, whose candidate was identified by both the Trump and Biden administrations as the rightful winner of last year's presidential election, criticized the ending of the protections, saying that the vast majority of the Venezuelans in the United States were "honest and hard-working" and forced to flee by Maduro.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-homeland-security-agents-raid-gurdwaras-in-new-york-and-new-jersey-for-illegal-immigrants-8658517">US Homeland Security agents raid gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey for illegal immigrants</a>
Grenell, a prolific user of social media, in Trump's first term served as acting director of national intelligence and ambassador to Germany, where he generated controversy with posts in support of Europe's populist right.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | US President Donald Trump sent an envoy Friday (Jan 31) to Venezuela to warn leftist leader Nicolas Maduro to accept the unconditional return of deported Venezuelans or face consequences.

US President Donald Trump sent an envoy Friday (Jan 31) to Venezuela to warn leftist leader Nicolas Maduro to accept the unconditional return of deported Venezuelans or face consequences. Richard Grenell, an outspoken ally of Trump who serves in a broad role as envoy for special missions, travelled to Caracas to speak to Maduro as the new administration vows to push a hard line. "President Trump expects Nicolas Maduro to take back all of the Venezuelan criminals and gang members that have been exported to the United States, and to do so unequivocally and without condition," said Mauricio Claver-Carone, the US special envoy for Latin America. Also read: Trump’s tariffs could hit Canada, Mexico and China: Why even Americans should be worried? He said that Grenell was also demanding that "American hostages need to be released -- immediately, unequivocally." "All I would do on this call is urge the Maduro government -- the Maduro regime -- in Venezuela, to heed to Special Envoy Ric Grenell and to his demands and what he puts on the table, because ultimately, there will be consequences otherwise," Claver-Carone told reporters. Venezuela's communication minister, Freddy Nanez, confirmed on Telegram that Maduro accepted a meeting with Grenell but suggested that the Venezuelan side did not expect agreements. It would be one of the first known meetings by the second Trump administrations with a government it considers hostile since the inauguration. Maduro was recently sworn in for a third term despite widespread international concerns about irregularities in the election. Also read: 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high' Claver-Carone said that the talks did not imply any softening of position on Maduro. The previous administration of Joe Biden agreed to relax sanctions on oil as part of a deal for American prisoners and free elections. Venezuela freed 10 Americans in a swap. But Biden reimposed sanctions after Maduro did not follow suit on democracy demands. Maduro recently announced the capture of seven "mercenaries" and said two were US citizens. "This is not a quid pro quo, is not a negotiation in exchange for anything. President Trump himself has made very clear we don't need Venezuelan oil," Claver-Carone said. Top priority for Trump Trump has made deporting undocumented people in the United States a top priority. During his campaign, he described immigrants as "poisoning the blood" of the United States. Since his return, he has pressed countries to take back deportees -- a top priority for Secretary of State Marco Rubio as he starts a five-nation tour of Latin America on Saturday. In his first week back in the White House, Trump vowed crushing tariffs on Colombia, a longstanding US ally, after its president called for more humane treatment of repatriated citizens. The Trump administration quickly ended protections from deportation for more than 600,000 Venezuelans living in the United States under protected status. Also read: Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants The Biden administration had allowed them to stay due to the fears for their safety if they return to Venezuela. Trump also signed a law making it easier to detain migrants who commit crimes, named after 22-year-old Laken Riley, a nursing student murdered by an undocumented Venezuelan migrant who had been arrested twice but released before her killing. The Venezuelan opposition, whose candidate was identified by both the Trump and Biden administrations as the rightful winner of last year's presidential election, criticized the ending of the protections, saying that the vast majority of the Venezuelans in the United States were "honest and hard-working" and forced to flee by Maduro. Also read: US Homeland Security agents raid gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey for illegal immigrants Grenell, a prolific user of social media, in Trump's first term served as acting director of national intelligence and ambassador to Germany, where he generated controversy with posts in support of Europe's populist right. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Venezuela must accept returned migrants from US, Trump envoy warns Maduro

Former militant leader Zakaria Zubeidi on Friday called for the "urgent release" of Palestinians from Israeli jails, a day after being freed as part of an ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza ceasefire agreement</a>.
"The situation of the prisoners is very difficult and we hope for their urgent release," Zubeidi told AFP on the sidelines of a reception celebrating his release near the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah.
"We hope that all our Palestinian people will be released from inside the Israeli Bastille," he added, referring to the infamous French prison stormed by revolutionaries in 1789.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rafah-crossing-between-gaza-egypt-to-reopen-today-instead-of-sunday-report-8678520" rel="dofollow">Rafah crossing between Gaza, Egypt to reopen today instead of Sunday: Report</a>
The 49-year-old, who has been imprisoned several times and was most recently in jail since 2019, is a former leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigade, the armed wing of Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party.
He was wanted by Israeli security services as the mastermind of several attacks that killed Israelis and served jail time on numerous counts including premeditated murder and attempted murder.
Zubeidi is also known as one of the few inmates to succeed in escaping from Israel's high-security Gilboa prison in 2021, before being recaptured days later.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-insists-egypt-and-jordan-will-accept-displaced-gaza-citizens-theyre-going-to-do-it-8676637" rel="dofollow">Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will accept displaced Gaza citizens: 'They're going to do it'</a>
At his reception Friday, Zubeidi shook hands with political figures and acquaintances and said "It is time for (Palestinians) to obtain their freedom".
Zubeidi received a hero's welcome in Ramallah after he was freed on Thursday alongside 109 other prisoners who were held by Israeli authorities.&nbsp;
Earlier in the day, three Israeli hostages held in Gaza were released in the third round of hostage-prisoner exchanges.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-kills-10-palestinians-in-west-bank-strike-amid-gaza-ceasefire-8676296" rel="dofollow">Israeli military kills 10 Palestinians in West Bank strike amid Gaza ceasefire</a>
Qadura Fares, the head of the Palestinian Authority's agency for prisoners, told AFP negotiations leading to the Palestinian prisoners' release were "difficult".
Fares added he hoped the exchanges taking place during the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire would lead "to a complete cessation of this war, a complete Israeli withdrawal, and the release of all male and female prisoners" from Israeli jails.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Zubeidi is also known as one of the few inmates to succeed in escaping from Israel's high-security Gilboa prison in 2021, before being recaptured days later.

Former militant leader Zakaria Zubeidi on Friday called for the "urgent release" of Palestinians from Israeli jails, a day after being freed as part of an ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement. "The situation of the prisoners is very difficult and we hope for their urgent release," Zubeidi told AFP on the sidelines of a reception celebrating his release near the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah. "We hope that all our Palestinian people will be released from inside the Israeli Bastille," he added, referring to the infamous French prison stormed by revolutionaries in 1789. Also read: Rafah crossing between Gaza, Egypt to reopen today instead of Sunday: Report The 49-year-old, who has been imprisoned several times and was most recently in jail since 2019, is a former leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigade, the armed wing of Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party. He was wanted by Israeli security services as the mastermind of several attacks that killed Israelis and served jail time on numerous counts including premeditated murder and attempted murder. Zubeidi is also known as one of the few inmates to succeed in escaping from Israel's high-security Gilboa prison in 2021, before being recaptured days later. Also read: Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will accept displaced Gaza citizens: 'They're going to do it' At his reception Friday, Zubeidi shook hands with political figures and acquaintances and said "It is time for (Palestinians) to obtain their freedom". Zubeidi received a hero's welcome in Ramallah after he was freed on Thursday alongside 109 other prisoners who were held by Israeli authorities. Earlier in the day, three Israeli hostages held in Gaza were released in the third round of hostage-prisoner exchanges. Also read: Israeli military kills 10 Palestinians in West Bank strike amid Gaza ceasefire Qadura Fares, the head of the Palestinian Authority's agency for prisoners, told AFP negotiations leading to the Palestinian prisoners' release were "difficult". Fares added he hoped the exchanges taking place during the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire would lead "to a complete cessation of this war, a complete Israeli withdrawal, and the release of all male and female prisoners" from Israeli jails. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Freed Palestinian ex-militant calls for 'urgent release' of all prisoners from Israeli prisons

In a new set of action taken against Chinese AI company which is making headlines for days now, the US Department of Defense has blocked the access to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/deepseek-ai" rel="dofollow">DeepSeek</a>.
This comes after it was discovered that US Congress employees had connected their work computers to the Chinese servers while using the AI service.&nbsp;
In a notice obtained by Axios, the Chief Administrative Officer said that DeepSeek is currently under review and unauthorised for official House use.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-looking-for-ai-winners-tracking-deepseek-success-8670201" rel="dofollow">India looking for AI winners tracking Deepseek success</a>
It further highlighted the risks associated with the Chinese AI bot and cited examples where "threat actors are already exploiting" the chatbot to deliver malicious software and infect devices.
For this, the US Congress immediately implemented security measures to restrict DeepSeek's functionality on all House-issued devices.&nbsp;
The employees at US Congress are now restricted from installing the app on official phones, computers and tablets.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-deepseek-ai-us-national-security-fears-over-american-user-data-us-ban-tiktok-8669146" rel="dofollow"> China's DeepSeek AI sparks national security fears over American user data: Will US ban it?</a>
However, despite the warnings, several staffers reportedly used the service for at least two days.&nbsp;
The official reason used by the US Congress was "operation reasons", however, the move came after concerns were raised about the potential security risks of using the Chinese AI app.&nbsp;
According to a Bloomberg report, the personnel began downloading earlier versions of DeepSeek's code to their workstations in the autumn of 2024, without realising that it is connected to Chinese servers.&nbsp;
According to the privacy policy of DeepSeek, the user data is stored in China and governed by Chinese law, which has been raising issues within the US Congress.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-claims-chinese-rival-deepseek-trained-ai-chatbot-using-chatgpt-microsoft-investigates-8668642" rel="dofollow">OpenAI claims Chinese rival DeepSeek trained AI chatbot using ChatGPT; Microsoft investigates</a>
<h2>Navy banned use of DeepSeek</h2>
The US Navy on Tuesday issued a ban on the usage of DeepSeek. They issued a warning email to "shipmates" saying DeepSeek&rsquo;s AI was not to be used &ldquo;in any capacity&rdquo; due to &ldquo;potential security and ethical concerns associated with the model&rsquo;s origin and usage.&rdquo;
A spokesperson for the US Navy confirmed the authenticity of the email and said it was in reference to the Department of the Navy&rsquo;s Chief Information Officer&rsquo;s generative AI policy.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: This comes after it was discovered that US Department of Defence employees had connected their work computers to the Chinese servers while using the AI service. 

In a new set of action taken against Chinese AI company which is making headlines for days now, the US Department of Defense has blocked the access to DeepSeek. This comes after it was discovered that US Congress employees had connected their work computers to the Chinese servers while using the AI service. In a notice obtained by Axios, the Chief Administrative Officer said that DeepSeek is currently under review and unauthorised for official House use. Also read: India looking for AI winners tracking Deepseek success It further highlighted the risks associated with the Chinese AI bot and cited examples where "threat actors are already exploiting" the chatbot to deliver malicious software and infect devices. For this, the US Congress immediately implemented security measures to restrict DeepSeek's functionality on all House-issued devices. The employees at US Congress are now restricted from installing the app on official phones, computers and tablets. Also read: China's DeepSeek AI sparks national security fears over American user data: Will US ban it? However, despite the warnings, several staffers reportedly used the service for at least two days. The official reason used by the US Congress was "operation reasons", however, the move came after concerns were raised about the potential security risks of using the Chinese AI app. According to a Bloomberg report, the personnel began downloading earlier versions of DeepSeek's code to their workstations in the autumn of 2024, without realising that it is connected to Chinese servers. According to the privacy policy of DeepSeek, the user data is stored in China and governed by Chinese law, which has been raising issues within the US Congress. Also read: OpenAI claims Chinese rival DeepSeek trained AI chatbot using ChatGPT; Microsoft investigates Navy banned use of DeepSeek The US Navy on Tuesday issued a ban on the usage of DeepSeek. They issued a warning email to "shipmates" saying DeepSeek’s AI was not to be used “in any capacity” due to “potential security and ethical concerns associated with the model’s origin and usage.” A spokesperson for the US Navy confirmed the authenticity of the email and said it was in reference to the Department of the Navy’s Chief Information Officer’s generative AI policy. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress bans employees from using DeepSeek over potential security risks

Human ears try to move while listening to a sound, a recent study by Saarland University in Germany has revealed. Movement of ears is a common trait in animals, which not only help them focus on a particular noise, but also let them find the direction of the noise.&nbsp;
While human ears are believed to be far more static, the recent research by Andreas Schr&ouml;er and his team has revealed otherwise.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/from-sci-fi-to-science-discovery-of-negative-time-in-quantum-physics-8587806">From Sci-Fi to Science: Groundbreaking discovery of 'negative time' using quantum physics</a>
The study said this phenomenon is due to a &ldquo;neural fossil" which is the result of traces of our ancestors&rsquo; ear-orienting system.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is believed that our ancestors lost their ability to move their ears about 25m years ago. Why, exactly, is difficult to say,&rdquo; Schr&ouml;er, the lead author of the research told The Guardian.&nbsp;
&ldquo;However, we have been able to demonstrate that the neural circuits still seem to be present in some state, [that is] our brain retained some of the structures to move the ears, even though they are not useful any more Schr&ouml;er added in his statement.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-how-sports-science-and-technology-is-redefining-athletic-performance-783815">Exclusive: How sports science and technology is redefining athletic performance</a>
The research team previously found that these muscle movements happen when the human focuses on the direction of the sound, but now it has been revealed that this happens when a human tries hard to listen a sound.&nbsp;
The reaseach team experimented on 20 adults who did not have any hearing problems. They were told to listen to an audiobook which was being played on a speaker. Simultaneously, a podcast was also played from the same location.&nbsp;
The team created three different scenarios for the experiment:
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-witnesses-16-new-year-sunrises-science-explains-how-8582786">Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how</a> &nbsp; 1. Easiest - The sound of the podcast was lower than the audiobook. There was a large difference in the pitch of the voices as well.&nbsp;
2. Hardest - Two podcasts were played together which were, combined, louder than the audiobook.&nbsp;
3. In the last scenario, one podcast was played at a similar pitch as that of the audiobook and the second was kept playing in the previous pitch.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We were interested in finding out if the auriculomotor system in humans is sensitive to effortful listening. Think about trying to understand what someone is saying in an almost empty restaurant, and then trying to understand someone in a very busy restaurant,&rdquo; Schr&ouml;er told The Guardian.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-how-sports-science-and-technology-is-redefining-athletic-performance-783815">Exclusive: How sports science and technology is redefining athletic performance</a>
Each participant was made hearing the three scenarios twice. this was further repeated after changing the locations of the speakers.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Almost nobody [in the study] could voluntarily move their ears, so our results are not related to a person&rsquo;s ability to do this,&rdquo; said Schr&ouml;er to The Guardian.
Although, the study was small and needed to be experimented on a larger group of people, the research team said it provided insights.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science/exploring-the-science-of-why-certain-foods-make-us-happy-1732549040958">Exploring the Science of Why Certain Foods Make Us Happy</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

 World | SCIENCE & TECH | Researchers identified a neural fossil phenomenon, suggesting it's a remnant of our ancestors' ear-orienting system, crucial for detecting environmental sounds.

Human ears try to move while listening to a sound, a recent study by Saarland University in Germany has revealed. Movement of ears is a common trait in animals, which not only help them focus on a particular noise, but also let them find the direction of the noise. While human ears are believed to be far more static, the recent research by Andreas Schröer and his team has revealed otherwise. Also read: From Sci-Fi to Science: Groundbreaking discovery of 'negative time' using quantum physics The study said this phenomenon is due to a “neural fossil" which is the result of traces of our ancestors’ ear-orienting system. “It is believed that our ancestors lost their ability to move their ears about 25m years ago. Why, exactly, is difficult to say,” Schröer, the lead author of the research told The Guardian. “However, we have been able to demonstrate that the neural circuits still seem to be present in some state, [that is] our brain retained some of the structures to move the ears, even though they are not useful any more Schröer added in his statement. Also read: Exclusive: How sports science and technology is redefining athletic performance The research team previously found that these muscle movements happen when the human focuses on the direction of the sound, but now it has been revealed that this happens when a human tries hard to listen a sound. The reaseach team experimented on 20 adults who did not have any hearing problems. They were told to listen to an audiobook which was being played on a speaker. Simultaneously, a podcast was also played from the same location. The team created three different scenarios for the experiment: Also read: Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how 1. Easiest - The sound of the podcast was lower than the audiobook. There was a large difference in the pitch of the voices as well. 2. Hardest - Two podcasts were played together which were, combined, louder than the audiobook. 3. In the last scenario, one podcast was played at a similar pitch as that of the audiobook and the second was kept playing in the previous pitch. “We were interested in finding out if the auriculomotor system in humans is sensitive to effortful listening. Think about trying to understand what someone is saying in an almost empty restaurant, and then trying to understand someone in a very busy restaurant,” Schröer told The Guardian. Also read: Exclusive: How sports science and technology is redefining athletic performance Each participant was made hearing the three scenarios twice. this was further repeated after changing the locations of the speakers. “Almost nobody [in the study] could voluntarily move their ears, so our results are not related to a person’s ability to do this,” said Schröer to The Guardian. Although, the study was small and needed to be experimented on a larger group of people, the research team said it provided insights. Also read: Exploring the Science of Why Certain Foods Make Us Happy (With inputs from agencies)

Human ears move while listening, recent study says. It's due to 'neural fossil'

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said the military helicopter was flying "too high" at the time of the Washington DC plane crash, that killed 67 people on board.
India's latest economic survey highlights steady growth in job creation and a reduction in unemployment. Beyond the numbers, the survey also sheds light on mental health issues and their economic impact.
Palestinian militant group Hamas released the names of three Israeli hostages to be freed on Saturday (Feb 1). Israel confirmed the three hostages are Ofer Calderon, Keith Siegel and Yarden Bibas, Reuters reported.
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-too-complicated-to-understand-trump-says-helicopter-involved-in-washington-crash-was-flying-too-high-8678961">'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/rRHMb1R8BbT9LWQuyxHv.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (Reuters) ">
US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said that the military helicopter was flying too high at the time of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Washington DC plane crash</a>, that killed 67 people on board.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-economic-survey-2025-highlights-mental-health-issues-amid-working-hours-debate-8678874">Indian Economic Survey 2025 - highlights</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/NQLgGlVfwMwIimbrGEAI.jpeg" alt=" Photograph: (Reuters) ">
India's latest economic survey highlights steady growth in job creation and a reduction in unemployment. Beyond the numbers, the survey also sheds light on mental health issues and their economic impact.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-three-israeli-hostages-to-be-free-saturday-8677839">Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be freed Saturday</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/YToLtcJBzayLa7D5DToW.png" alt=" Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be free Saturday Photograph: (AFP) ">
Palestinian militant group Hamas released the names of three Israeli hostages to be freed on Saturday (Feb 1). The three hostages named are: Ofer Calderon, Keith Siegel and Yarden Bibas, Reuters reported.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secy-of-state-marco-rubio-says-trumps-intent-to-buy-greenland-not-a-joke-denmark-says-not-for-sale-8678844">US Secy of State Marco Rubio says Trump's intent to buy Greenland 'not a joke,' Denmark says 'not for sale</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/oIQvz8hO1MPATm0Iljl2.png" alt=" US Secy of State Marco Rubio says Trump's intent to buy Greenland 'not a joke,' Denmark says 'not for sale Photograph: (AFP/Wion Web Team ) ">
Hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that US President Donald Trump is serious about buying Greenland and it was "not a joke," Denmark said it meant seriously that Greenland is not for sale.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-nominated-for-nobel-peace-prize-for-free-speech-advocacy-billionaire-turns-down-offer-8678649">Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/dQ1OYbotJIiXv3QLyZQk.png" alt=" Elon Musk Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Tesla CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-meta-agreed-to-pay-25-mn-to-us-president-trump-8669842" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Elon Musk</a>&nbsp;has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for advocating free speech by European Parliament member Branko Grims.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-early-us-visit-in-the-works-tahawwur-ranas-to-be-extradited-to-india-soon-mea-8678389">PM Modi&rsquo;s early US visit in the works; Tahawwur Rana to be extradited to India soon: MEA</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/bbCedy5BY24moSLOt1IJ.png" alt=" Indian PM Modi with US President Donald Trump Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on Friday (Jan 31), and both sides are working towards an early visit, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whatsapp-says-nearly-100-journalists-and-civil-society-members-targeted-by-israeli-spyware-company-paragon-8679076">WhatsApp says nearly 100 journalists and civil society members targeted by Israeli spyware company Paragon</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/zhCdx5pGLgQHoGGF9t18.png" alt=" Representative image Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The Israeli spyware company Paragon targeted nearly 100 journalists and other members of civil society using Meta's WhatsApp on Friday (Jan 31), an Israeli maker of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hacking" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">hacking&nbsp;</a>software told the Guardian.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/meta-employees-mark-zuckerberg-news-stage-quiet-rebellion-over-removal-of-tampons-from-mens-bathrooms-8678701">Meta employees stage &lsquo;quiet rebellion&rsquo; over removal of tampons from men&rsquo;s bathrooms</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/4NGT30FOrCNMvidbiNyo.png" alt=" Meta had previously provided sanitary products including tampons in male washrooms for nonbinary and transgender staff members. Photograph: (Reuters, Pexels) ">
Following Meta's recent decision to remove tampons from men's bathrooms in its offices, some employees have reportedly begun staging "quiet rebellions" by bringing in their&nbsp;own&nbsp;supplies, according to a report by The New York Times.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-mohammad-rizwan-to-lead-pakistans-15-man-squad-fakhar-zaman-returns-8678793">Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Rizwan to lead Pakistan's 15-man squad; Fakhar Zaman returns</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/23/a86XpVjZKKRMCZT4rg0G.jpg" alt=" Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Rizwan to lead Pakistan's 15-man squad; Fakhar Zaman returns Photograph: (AFP) ">
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed its squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 as Mohammad Rizwan leads the 15-man contingent.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscar-nominated-actress-karla-sof%C3%ADa-gasc%C3%B3n-faces-backlash-over-her-years-old-islamophobic-posts-internet-reacts-8678127">Oscar-nominated actress Karla Sof&iacute;a Gasc&oacute;n faces backlash over her years-old Islamophobic posts, internet reacts</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/24/karla-sofia-gascon1.jpg" alt=" Oscar-nominated actress Karla Sof&iacute;a Gasc&oacute;n faces backlash over her years-old Islamophobic posts, internet reacts">
Karla Sof&iacute;a Gasc&oacute;n's past has come back to haunt her amid the actress having the best moment of her life and career, as her performance in the critically acclaimed movie&nbsp;Emilia Perez&nbsp;dominates the headlines.
&nbsp;

Here are the top 10 news from across the world. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said the military helicopter was flying "too high" at the time of the Washington DC plane crash, that killed 67 people on board. India's latest economic survey highlights steady growth in job creation and a reduction in unemployment. Beyond the numbers, the survey also sheds light on mental health issues and their economic impact. Palestinian militant group Hamas released the names of three Israeli hostages to be freed on Saturday (Feb 1). Israel confirmed the three hostages are Ofer Calderon, Keith Siegel and Yarden Bibas, Reuters reported. Click on the headlines to read more 'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high' US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said that the military helicopter was flying too high at the time of the Washington DC plane crash, that killed 67 people on board. Indian Economic Survey 2025 - highlights India's latest economic survey highlights steady growth in job creation and a reduction in unemployment. Beyond the numbers, the survey also sheds light on mental health issues and their economic impact. Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be freed Saturday Palestinian militant group Hamas released the names of three Israeli hostages to be freed on Saturday (Feb 1). The three hostages named are: Ofer Calderon, Keith Siegel and Yarden Bibas, Reuters reported. US Secy of State Marco Rubio says Trump's intent to buy Greenland 'not a joke,' Denmark says 'not for sale Hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that US President Donald Trump is serious about buying Greenland and it was "not a joke," Denmark said it meant seriously that Greenland is not for sale. Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for advocating free speech by European Parliament member Branko Grims. PM Modi’s early US visit in the works; Tahawwur Rana to be extradited to India soon: MEA Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on Friday (Jan 31), and both sides are working towards an early visit, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. WhatsApp says nearly 100 journalists and civil society members targeted by Israeli spyware company Paragon The Israeli spyware company Paragon targeted nearly 100 journalists and other members of civil society using Meta's WhatsApp on Friday (Jan 31), an Israeli maker of hacking software told the Guardian. Meta employees stage ‘quiet rebellion’ over removal of tampons from men’s bathrooms Following Meta's recent decision to remove tampons from men's bathrooms in its offices, some employees have reportedly begun staging "quiet rebellions" by bringing in their own supplies, according to a report by The New York Times. Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Rizwan to lead Pakistan's 15-man squad; Fakhar Zaman returns Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed its squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 as Mohammad Rizwan leads the 15-man contingent. Oscar-nominated actress Karla Sofía Gascón faces backlash over her years-old Islamophobic posts, internet reacts Karla Sofía Gascón's past has come back to haunt her amid the actress having the best moment of her life and career, as her performance in the critically acclaimed movie Emilia Perez dominates the headlines.

Top 10 world news: Washington DC crash updates; Indian Economic survey highlights, and more

An American Airlines flight and a Black Hawk military helicopter collided and crashed into the Potomac River near Washington DC late Wednesday night (Jan 29) taking the lives of 67 people.
Investigators have recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the American Airlines flight. A probe is underway to ascertain the cause of the crash, which was the deadliest air disaster in the US since 2001 and the first fatal crash involving an American airliner in nearly 15 years.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-american-airlines-jet-black-hawk-helicopter-critical-failures-deadliest-us-air-disaster-in-24-years-8678043" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster&nbsp;in&nbsp;24&nbsp;years</a>
A preliminary report of the incident is expected within 30 days. Even though the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said that it is &ldquo;too early to tell&rdquo; whether the crash resulted from human or mechanical error, politicians and even the President of the United States Donald Trump are pulling no stops to find someone to blame for the incident.
<h2>DEI hires, Biden, Obama are to blame for the crash: Donald Trump</h2>
During a press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said he believed that the crash "looks like it should have been prevented." He placed blame on past Democratic administrations of Joe Biden and Barack Obama, claiming that they had lowered hiring standards for air traffic controllers.
Trump also appeared to blame diversity hires for the crash saying, &ldquo;The FAA diversity push includes a focus on hiring people with severe intellectual and psychiatric disabilities. That is amazing.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/figure-skating-champions-daughter-of-indian-immigrants-know-who-are-the-victims-of-washington-dc-plane-crash-8678185" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Figure skating champions, daughter of Indian immigrants: Know who are the victims of Washington DC plane crash</a>
Asked if the crash was caused by diversity hiring, he said: &ldquo;It just could have been.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I am not blaming the controller. So we don&rsquo;t know, but we do know that you had two planes at the same level. You had a helicopter and a plane. That shouldn&rsquo;t have happened,&rdquo; Trump said.
However, he admitted that he was unsure who was directly responsible for the disaster.
Trump's comments drew criticism from Democrats, with Senate Democratic leader, Chuck Schumer, saying &ldquo;It&rsquo;s one thing for internet pundits to spew off conspiracies, it&rsquo;s another for the President of the United States to throw out idle speculation as bodies are still being recovered."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-donald-trump-atc-us-transportation-secretary-sean-duffy-it-was-preventable-8675641" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was&nbsp;&lsquo;preventable&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Experts cite airspace protocol failures and air traffic control confusion</h2>
Flight path data shows that helicopters and aeroplanes operate on separate routes in the area, but these paths converge near Reagan National Airport. The American Airlines jet had been given clearance to land and, therefore, had the right of way.
Retired Lt. Col. Darin Gaub, a former Black Hawk pilot, told the New York Post that multiple factors contributed to the disaster. 
&ldquo;This is a two-part issue,&rdquo; he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
&ldquo;Was there a failure to follow established procedures in DC airspace, and was there a failure in air traffic control communication?&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Vague air traffic control instructions may have misled Black Hawk pilot</h2>
Video footage of the crash shows another aircraft taking off at the same time that the American Airlines jet was descending.
Instead of giving precise instructions, the controller reportedly asked the military pilot if he saw the &ldquo;CRJ&rdquo;, referring only to the aircraft type, without specifying its exact location.
&ldquo;The language should be much clearer,&rdquo; Gaub said. &ldquo;Normally, a controller would say something like, &lsquo;Black Hawk, do you see the aircraft at your 11 o&rsquo;clock, five miles out, moving north?&rsquo;&rdquo;
Vague instructions may have led the Black Hawk pilot to look in the wrong direction. &ldquo;That kind of general call isn&rsquo;t enough in a crowded airspace,&rdquo; Gaub said.
Former Air Force pilot and Congressman Adam Kinzinger defended the air traffic controllers, stating in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) that &ldquo;air traffic control did its job&rdquo; by alerting the Black Hawk of the approaching jet.
<h2>Military pilot&rsquo;s actions under scrutiny in crash investigation</h2>
However, experts believe the military pilot could have been responsible for the crash.
&ldquo;Why didn&rsquo;t he turn? Why didn&rsquo;t he even slow down?&rdquo; Gaub questioned. &ldquo;Something caused him not to see that aircraft &hellip; so I&rsquo;d just like to know why they didn&rsquo;t deviate from their flight course at all&mdash;whether in speed or altitude.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Even though it is “too early to tell,” experts, politicians and even US President Trump are pulling no stops to find someone to blame for the Washington DC plane crash.

An American Airlines flight and a Black Hawk military helicopter collided and crashed into the Potomac River near Washington DC late Wednesday night (Jan 29) taking the lives of 67 people. Investigators have recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the American Airlines flight. A probe is underway to ascertain the cause of the crash, which was the deadliest air disaster in the US since 2001 and the first fatal crash involving an American airliner in nearly 15 years. Also read: Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years A preliminary report of the incident is expected within 30 days. Even though the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said that it is “too early to tell” whether the crash resulted from human or mechanical error, politicians and even the President of the United States Donald Trump are pulling no stops to find someone to blame for the incident. DEI hires, Biden, Obama are to blame for the crash: Donald Trump During a press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said he believed that the crash "looks like it should have been prevented." He placed blame on past Democratic administrations of Joe Biden and Barack Obama, claiming that they had lowered hiring standards for air traffic controllers. Trump also appeared to blame diversity hires for the crash saying, “The FAA diversity push includes a focus on hiring people with severe intellectual and psychiatric disabilities. That is amazing.” Also read: Figure skating champions, daughter of Indian immigrants: Know who are the victims of Washington DC plane crash Asked if the crash was caused by diversity hiring, he said: “It just could have been.” “I am not blaming the controller. So we don’t know, but we do know that you had two planes at the same level. You had a helicopter and a plane. That shouldn’t have happened,” Trump said. However, he admitted that he was unsure who was directly responsible for the disaster. Trump's comments drew criticism from Democrats, with Senate Democratic leader, Chuck Schumer, saying “It’s one thing for internet pundits to spew off conspiracies, it’s another for the President of the United States to throw out idle speculation as bodies are still being recovered." Also read: 'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was ‘preventable’ Experts cite airspace protocol failures and air traffic control confusion Flight path data shows that helicopters and aeroplanes operate on separate routes in the area, but these paths converge near Reagan National Airport. The American Airlines jet had been given clearance to land and, therefore, had the right of way. Retired Lt. Col. Darin Gaub, a former Black Hawk pilot, told the New York Post that multiple factors contributed to the disaster. “This is a two-part issue,” he said. Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash “Was there a failure to follow established procedures in DC airspace, and was there a failure in air traffic control communication?” he added. Vague air traffic control instructions may have misled Black Hawk pilot Video footage of the crash shows another aircraft taking off at the same time that the American Airlines jet was descending. Instead of giving precise instructions, the controller reportedly asked the military pilot if he saw the “CRJ”, referring only to the aircraft type, without specifying its exact location. “The language should be much clearer,” Gaub said. “Normally, a controller would say something like, ‘Black Hawk, do you see the aircraft at your 11 o’clock, five miles out, moving north?’” Vague instructions may have led the Black Hawk pilot to look in the wrong direction. “That kind of general call isn’t enough in a crowded airspace,” Gaub said. Former Air Force pilot and Congressman Adam Kinzinger defended the air traffic controllers, stating in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) that “air traffic control did its job” by alerting the Black Hawk of the approaching jet. Military pilot’s actions under scrutiny in crash investigation However, experts believe the military pilot could have been responsible for the crash. “Why didn’t he turn? Why didn’t he even slow down?” Gaub questioned. “Something caused him not to see that aircraft … so I’d just like to know why they didn’t deviate from their flight course at all—whether in speed or altitude.” (With inputs from agencies)

Black Hawk pilot, ATC missteps, Obama, or DEI hiring: Who's really to blame for the Washington DC plane crash?

The Israeli spyware company Paragon targeted nearly 100 journalists and other members of civil society using Meta's WhatsApp on Friday (Jan 31), an Israeli maker of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hacking" rel="dofollow">hacking </a>software told the Guardian.&nbsp;
The journalists and other members were being alerted for a possible breach of their devices.&nbsp;
WhatsApp told the Guardian, that they had "high confidence" that the users in question had been targeted and "possibly compromised".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/can-cia-read-your-whatapp-messages-this-is-what-mark-zuckerberg-has-to-say-8612166" rel="dofollow">Can CIA read your WhatsApp messages? This is what Mark Zuckerberg has to say...&nbsp;</a>
However, the social media giant refused to reveal where these journalists and members of the civil society were based.&nbsp;
<h2>'Cease-and-desist'</h2>
An official said that WhatsApp had sent Paragon a cease-and-desist letter after the hacking.&nbsp;
WhatsApp further said that the alleged attacks were stopped in December and that it was not clear how long the targets may have been under threat.&nbsp;
&ldquo;WhatsApp has disrupted a spyware campaign by Paragon that targeted a number of users including journalists and members of civil society. We&rsquo;ve reached out directly to people who we believe were affected. This is the latest example of why spyware companies must be held accountable for their unlawful actions," a company spokesperson said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-proclaims-pegasus-maker-nso-group-accountable-in-whatsapp-hacking-case-785916" rel="dofollow">Pegasus maker NSO group accountable in 'Whatsapp hacking case', rules US judge</a>
"Will continue to protect people's ability to communicate privately," the statement read.
Notably, Paragon's US office is located in Chantilly, Virginia. The spyware company has faced recent scrutiny after American magazine WIRED reported in October that it had entered into a USD 2 million contract with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement&rsquo;s homeland security investigations division.
Later, the division issued a stop-work order for the contract to verify whether it complied with a Biden administration executive order that restricted the spyware usage by the federal government.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-based-nso-admits-hacking-1400-whatsapp-users-with-pegasus-spyware-unsealed-court-docs-reveal-776497" rel="dofollow">Israel-based NSO admits hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users with Pegasus spyware, unsealed court docs reveal</a>
The spyware is also known as Graphite. Once a phone gets hacked by Graphite, the operator of the spyware can access the phone completely, including reading the messages that are sent via encrypted applications like WhatsApp and Signal.
The social media further said that it believed that the so-called vector was through a malicious PDF file that was sent to the individuals after adding them to a group chat.&nbsp;
It added that they can say with "confidence" that Paragon was linked to this targeting.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, science & technology: WhatsApp told the Guardian, that they had "high confidence" that the users in question had been targeted and "possibly compromised". 

The Israeli spyware company Paragon targeted nearly 100 journalists and other members of civil society using Meta's WhatsApp on Friday (Jan 31), an Israeli maker of hacking software told the Guardian. The journalists and other members were being alerted for a possible breach of their devices. WhatsApp told the Guardian, that they had "high confidence" that the users in question had been targeted and "possibly compromised". Also read: Can CIA read your WhatsApp messages? This is what Mark Zuckerberg has to say... However, the social media giant refused to reveal where these journalists and members of the civil society were based. 'Cease-and-desist' An official said that WhatsApp had sent Paragon a cease-and-desist letter after the hacking. WhatsApp further said that the alleged attacks were stopped in December and that it was not clear how long the targets may have been under threat. “WhatsApp has disrupted a spyware campaign by Paragon that targeted a number of users including journalists and members of civil society. We’ve reached out directly to people who we believe were affected. This is the latest example of why spyware companies must be held accountable for their unlawful actions," a company spokesperson said. Also read: Pegasus maker NSO group accountable in 'Whatsapp hacking case', rules US judge "Will continue to protect people's ability to communicate privately," the statement read. Notably, Paragon's US office is located in Chantilly, Virginia. The spyware company has faced recent scrutiny after American magazine WIRED reported in October that it had entered into a USD 2 million contract with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s homeland security investigations division. Later, the division issued a stop-work order for the contract to verify whether it complied with a Biden administration executive order that restricted the spyware usage by the federal government. Also read: Israel-based NSO admits hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users with Pegasus spyware, unsealed court docs reveal The spyware is also known as Graphite. Once a phone gets hacked by Graphite, the operator of the spyware can access the phone completely, including reading the messages that are sent via encrypted applications like WhatsApp and Signal. The social media further said that it believed that the so-called vector was through a malicious PDF file that was sent to the individuals after adding them to a group chat. It added that they can say with "confidence" that Paragon was linked to this targeting. (With inputs from agencies)

WhatsApp says nearly 100 journalists and civil society members targeted by Israeli spyware company Paragon

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said that the military helicopter was flying too high at the time of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">Washington DC plane crash</a>, that killed 67 people on board.&nbsp;
In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the helicopter was far above the 200-foot limit.
"The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200-foot limit. That&rsquo;s not really too complicated to understand, is it???," he said in the post.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113923147334338299/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

More than 40 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River, a law enforcement official reportedly told the Associated Press.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429" rel="dofollow">'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67</a>
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the black boxes onboard the Black Hawk helicopter have not yet been recovered.&nbsp;
&ldquo;That might tell us exactly who was piloting that Black Hawk," he said, adding, &ldquo;if any confusion was there at the end.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Someone was at the wrong altitude&rdquo; Hegseth added. &ldquo;The investigation will help us understand that. Was the BlackHawk too high, was it on course? Right now we don&rsquo;t know.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/figure-skating-champions-daughter-of-indian-immigrants-know-who-are-the-victims-of-washington-dc-plane-crash-8678185" rel="dofollow">Figure skating champions, daughter of Indian immigrants: Know who are the victims of Washington DC plane crash</a>
Currently, the US Federal Aviation Administration is restricting helicopter flights near Reagan National Airport indefinitely, a FAA official reportedly told Reuters.
National Transportation Safety Board member Todd Inman said on Friday that they have hundreds of people in this investigation.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Today will be yet another day of the teams going out there&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;They&rsquo;re out in the field. They&rsquo;re collecting data. They&rsquo;ve started interviews.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-latest-news-american-airlines-jet-black-hawk-helicopter-critical-failures-deadliest-us-air-disaster-in-24-years-8678043" rel="dofollow">Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years</a>
Earlier, Trump suggested that efforts to increase diversity at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could have been a cause in the crash.
Moreover, the NTSB on Thursday announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet. The recording devices commonly known as black boxes were recovered from the crashed plane operated by an American Airlines subsidiary.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Pete Hegseth said that the black boxes onboard the Black Hawk helicopter have not yet been recovered, adding, 'itt might tell us who was piloting that Black Hawk'.  

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jan 31) said that the military helicopter was flying too high at the time of the Washington DC plane crash, that killed 67 people on board. In a Truth Social post, Trump said that the helicopter was far above the 200-foot limit. "The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200-foot limit. That’s not really too complicated to understand, is it???," he said in the post. More than 40 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River, a law enforcement official reportedly told the Associated Press. Also read: 'Black boxes' recovered from Washington DC plane crash that killed 67 US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the black boxes onboard the Black Hawk helicopter have not yet been recovered. “That might tell us exactly who was piloting that Black Hawk," he said, adding, “if any confusion was there at the end.” “Someone was at the wrong altitude” Hegseth added. “The investigation will help us understand that. Was the BlackHawk too high, was it on course? Right now we don’t know.” Also read: Figure skating champions, daughter of Indian immigrants: Know who are the victims of Washington DC plane crash Currently, the US Federal Aviation Administration is restricting helicopter flights near Reagan National Airport indefinitely, a FAA official reportedly told Reuters. National Transportation Safety Board member Todd Inman said on Friday that they have hundreds of people in this investigation. “Today will be yet another day of the teams going out there” he said. “They’re out in the field. They’re collecting data. They’ve started interviews.” Also read: Washington DC plane crash: How 'critical failures,' last-minute errors resulted in deadliest US air disaster in 24 years Earlier, Trump suggested that efforts to increase diversity at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could have been a cause in the crash. Moreover, the NTSB on Thursday announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet. The recording devices commonly known as black boxes were recovered from the crashed plane operated by an American Airlines subsidiary. (With inputs from agencies)

'Not too complicated to understand', Trump says helicopter involved in Washington crash was flying 'too high'

Hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that US President Donald Trump is serious about buying Greenland and it was "not a joke," Denmark said it meant seriously that Greenland is not for sale.
Trump, since he returned to the White House, has been firm on his plan to acquire Greenland even if he would have to use military or economic power to do that.&nbsp;
In an interview on Thursday (Jan 30), Rubio said although the Trump administration is not conducting military action against Denmark, it can be assured that the inrest of the United States in Greenland is real.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-greenland-but-does-greenland-want-trump-latest-poll-says-85-against-it-8669449">Trump wants Greenland but does Greenland want Trump? Latest poll says 85% against it</a>
"This is not a joke," Rubio said.
"President Trump's put out there what he intends to do, which is to purchase it," Rubio said. &nbsp;
"This is not about acquiring land to acquire land. This is in our national interest and it needs to be solved," he added.&nbsp;
<h2>'I would be more surprised if...'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-us-will-get-greenland-calls-denmark-pm-mette-frederiksen-8655480">Trump confident US will 'get Greenland,' calls Denmark's refusal 'very unfriendly'</a>
Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen responded to his remark and said, "I would be more surprised if he had said it was a joke."
"We seriously mean - and this is also true in Greenland - that Greenland is not for sale," he added.&nbsp;
Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede, who expressed the desire of the island nation to be free from Denmark, also said it should be the people of Greenland who decide their fate and not Trump.&nbsp;
<h2>'If we are already on the hook...'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-is-not-first-us-president-to-think-about-buying-greenland-8626496">Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic</a>
Talking about Denmark, Rubio said the US has a defence agreement with the country to protect Greenland "if it becomes under assault". &nbsp;
He said, "If we are already on the hook for having to do that, then we might as well have more control over what happens there."&nbsp;
<h2>China's interest in the island&nbsp;</h2>
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trumps-bid-to-annex-greenland">Donald Trump's bid to 'Annex' Greenland</a>
Rubio further expressed his concerns over China's interest in Greenland. He said China is seeking Arctic access and could expand its influence in Greenland via state-run companies.&nbsp;
"It is completely realistic to believe that the Chinese will eventually, maybe even in the short term, try to do in Greenland what they have done at the Panama Canal and in other places," Rubio said.&nbsp;
<h2>US will own Greenland in 4 years?&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-brics-nation-with-100-pc-tariffs-for-replacing-us-dollar-8677282">Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar</a>
Rubio was asked if the US would acquire Greenland in four years. The US State Secretary said, "Obviously that's the president's priority and he has made that point."&nbsp;
He said although the Trump administration is not yet ready to discuss the exact plan to do it, it can be assured that "four years from now, our interest in the Arctic will be more secure."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-criticises-journalist-after-she-grills-him-for-blaming-democrats-dei-policies-for-washington-plane-crash-8676575">Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for &lsquo;blaming&rsquo; Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump, since he returned to the White House, has been firm on his plan to acquire Greenland even if he would have to use military or economic power to do that. 

Hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that US President Donald Trump is serious about buying Greenland and it was "not a joke," Denmark said it meant seriously that Greenland is not for sale. Trump, since he returned to the White House, has been firm on his plan to acquire Greenland even if he would have to use military or economic power to do that. In an interview on Thursday (Jan 30), Rubio said although the Trump administration is not conducting military action against Denmark, it can be assured that the inrest of the United States in Greenland is real. Also read: Trump wants Greenland but does Greenland want Trump? Latest poll says 85% against it "This is not a joke," Rubio said. "President Trump's put out there what he intends to do, which is to purchase it," Rubio said. "This is not about acquiring land to acquire land. This is in our national interest and it needs to be solved," he added. 'I would be more surprised if...' Also read: Trump confident US will 'get Greenland,' calls Denmark's refusal 'very unfriendly' Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen responded to his remark and said, "I would be more surprised if he had said it was a joke." "We seriously mean - and this is also true in Greenland - that Greenland is not for sale," he added. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede, who expressed the desire of the island nation to be free from Denmark, also said it should be the people of Greenland who decide their fate and not Trump. 'If we are already on the hook...' Also read: Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic Talking about Denmark, Rubio said the US has a defence agreement with the country to protect Greenland "if it becomes under assault". He said, "If we are already on the hook for having to do that, then we might as well have more control over what happens there." China's interest in the island WATCH: Donald Trump's bid to 'Annex' Greenland Rubio further expressed his concerns over China's interest in Greenland. He said China is seeking Arctic access and could expand its influence in Greenland via state-run companies. "It is completely realistic to believe that the Chinese will eventually, maybe even in the short term, try to do in Greenland what they have done at the Panama Canal and in other places," Rubio said. US will own Greenland in 4 years? Also read: Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar Rubio was asked if the US would acquire Greenland in four years. The US State Secretary said, "Obviously that's the president's priority and he has made that point." He said although the Trump administration is not yet ready to discuss the exact plan to do it, it can be assured that "four years from now, our interest in the Arctic will be more secure." Also read: Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash (With inputs from agencies)

US Secy of State Marco Rubio says Trump's intent to buy Greenland 'not a joke,' Denmark says 'not for sale

Myanmar's junta extended a state of emergency by six months on Friday, four years after it seized power triggering a civil war that has claimed thousands of lives.
The country is mired in a bloody, multi-sided conflict stemming from the February 1, 2021 putsch that ended a 10-year experiment with democracy.
The military is struggling to contain armed resistance to its rule, suffering a series of damaging battlefield losses over the past year to an alliance of ethnic minority armed groups in the north and west of the country.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-junta-air-strike-kills-40-in-village-in-rakhine-8606105" rel="dofollow">Myanmar junta air strike kills 40 in Rakhine village</a>
The ruling military council headed by army chief Min Aung Hlaing unanimously approved the extension, the junta's information team said in a statement.
"All members of National Defence and Security Council including the commander in chief as well as acting president decided in unison for the extension of the state of emergency for another six months," the statement said.
Elections cannot be held under a state of emergency, so long-promised polls the junta has said will be held in 2025 will not take place until the second half of the year at the earliest.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-ethnic-armed-group-executes-six-men-following-public-trial-782001" rel="dofollow">Myanmar ethnic armed group executes six men following public trial</a>
Min Aung Hlaing told the ruling council that "peace and stability is still needed" before the state of emergency can be lifted and polls held.
Critics and Western governments have said that any elections held under the auspices of the junta will be neither free nor fair.
The military seized power after making unsubstantiated allegations of fraud in the 2020 elections which Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won in a landslide.
It has extended the state of emergency multiple times since as it battles established ethnic minority armed groups and newer pro-democracy "People's Defence Forces".
More than 6,000 civilians have been killed since the coup, and more than 20,000 arrested, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) monitoring group.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prosecutor-seeks-icc-arrest-warrant-for-myanmar-junta-leader-over-rohingya-conflict-779665" rel="dofollow">Prosecutor seeks ICC arrest warrant for Myanmar junta leader over Rohingya conflict</a>
On Thursday the UN's Independent Investigative Mechanism for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/myanmar" rel="dofollow">Myanmar </a>(IIMM) said serious international crimes had been committed in the four years since the coup.
The conflict has forced more than 3.5 million people to flee their homes, while an estimated 19.9 million people -- or more than a third of Myanmar's population -- will need humanitarian aid in 2025, according to the UN.
Earlier this month, foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) regional bloc urged the junta to prioritise a ceasefire in the conflict over holding elections.
ASEAN has led international efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis but, despite multiple meetings and declarations, has made no substantial progress.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The country is mired in a bloody, multi-sided conflict stemming from the February 1, 2021 putsch that ended a 10-year experiment with democracy.

Myanmar's junta extended a state of emergency by six months on Friday, four years after it seized power triggering a civil war that has claimed thousands of lives. The country is mired in a bloody, multi-sided conflict stemming from the February 1, 2021 putsch that ended a 10-year experiment with democracy. The military is struggling to contain armed resistance to its rule, suffering a series of damaging battlefield losses over the past year to an alliance of ethnic minority armed groups in the north and west of the country. Also read: Myanmar junta air strike kills 40 in Rakhine village The ruling military council headed by army chief Min Aung Hlaing unanimously approved the extension, the junta's information team said in a statement. "All members of National Defence and Security Council including the commander in chief as well as acting president decided in unison for the extension of the state of emergency for another six months," the statement said. Elections cannot be held under a state of emergency, so long-promised polls the junta has said will be held in 2025 will not take place until the second half of the year at the earliest. Also read: Myanmar ethnic armed group executes six men following public trial Min Aung Hlaing told the ruling council that "peace and stability is still needed" before the state of emergency can be lifted and polls held. Critics and Western governments have said that any elections held under the auspices of the junta will be neither free nor fair. The military seized power after making unsubstantiated allegations of fraud in the 2020 elections which Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won in a landslide. It has extended the state of emergency multiple times since as it battles established ethnic minority armed groups and newer pro-democracy "People's Defence Forces". More than 6,000 civilians have been killed since the coup, and more than 20,000 arrested, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) monitoring group. Also read: Prosecutor seeks ICC arrest warrant for Myanmar junta leader over Rohingya conflict On Thursday the UN's Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) said serious international crimes had been committed in the four years since the coup. The conflict has forced more than 3.5 million people to flee their homes, while an estimated 19.9 million people -- or more than a third of Myanmar's population -- will need humanitarian aid in 2025, according to the UN. Earlier this month, foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) regional bloc urged the junta to prioritise a ceasefire in the conflict over holding elections. ASEAN has led international efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis but, despite multiple meetings and declarations, has made no substantial progress. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Military junta extends state of emergency in Myanmar for six more months on coup's fourth anniversary

Tesla CEO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-meta-agreed-to-pay-25-mn-to-us-president-trump-8669842">Elon Musk</a> has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for advocating free speech by European Parliament member Branko Grims.&nbsp;
Grims said that a petition for the Tesla and SpaceX CEO&rsquo;s nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize had been submitted to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for Musk's contribution to the human rights of freedom of speech and peace.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
<h2>'I don't want any prize'</h2>
However, Musk turned down the offer, saying that he was not interested in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want any prizes," Musk responded.&nbsp;
The billionaire is known for his outspoken behaviour, and his views on censorship and on the controversial acquisition of X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-sam-altman-donald-trump-stargate-project-8656146" rel="dofollow">Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump</a>
How Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 and its rebranding of X, has been seen as a revolutionary move in restoring speech.&nbsp;
As Musk took control of the X, he reversed bans on prominent conservative voices, rolled back content moderation policies and placed a strong emphasis on upholding free expression.&nbsp;
On the contrary, he has also witnessed criticism with some people accusing X of fostering information and harassment.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-news-today-joins-germany-afd-rally-germans-to-move-beyond-past-guilt-amid-nazi-salute-controversy-8654678" rel="dofollow">'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt'</a>
<h2>Netizens react&nbsp;</h2>
Musk's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize has raised criticism on social media.&nbsp;
Some of the people pointed out that being nominated for such an award, does not hold much weight, as anyone can propose a nominee, and it's a process filled with questionable choices each year.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, others said that platforms like Twitter, now X, still censor certain topics&mdash;citing the ongoing debates about terms like &ldquo;cisgender.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: Billionaire Elon Musk turned down the offer made by European Parliament member Branko Grims, saying that he was not interested in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for advocating free speech by European Parliament member Branko Grims. Grims said that a petition for the Tesla and SpaceX CEO’s nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize had been submitted to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for Musk's contribution to the human rights of freedom of speech and peace. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom 'I don't want any prize' However, Musk turned down the offer, saying that he was not interested in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. “I don’t want any prizes," Musk responded. The billionaire is known for his outspoken behaviour, and his views on censorship and on the controversial acquisition of X. Also read: Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump How Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 and its rebranding of X, has been seen as a revolutionary move in restoring speech. As Musk took control of the X, he reversed bans on prominent conservative voices, rolled back content moderation policies and placed a strong emphasis on upholding free expression. On the contrary, he has also witnessed criticism with some people accusing X of fostering information and harassment. Also read: 'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt' Netizens react Musk's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize has raised criticism on social media. Some of the people pointed out that being nominated for such an award, does not hold much weight, as anyone can propose a nominee, and it's a process filled with questionable choices each year. Meanwhile, others said that platforms like Twitter, now X, still censor certain topics—citing the ongoing debates about terms like “cisgender.” (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer

The Rafah Border Crossing between Egypt and Gaza will reopen on Friday (Jan 31) for the passage of Palestinian civilians instead of its scheduled day - Sunday (Feb 2). Israel and Hamas had agreed to reopen the border on Feb 2 in the Gaza ceasefire deal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-three-israeli-hostages-to-be-free-saturday-8677839">Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be freed Saturday</a>
Under the deal, the crossing of Gaza's southern border was planned to be open after the Palestinian terror group released all the female hostages in Gaza, including Israeli soldiers and civilians.&nbsp;
In the third round of the Gaza hostages exchange on Thursday (Jan 30), two females, one IDF soldier and one civilian, were released by Hamas. Five Thai nationals were also released with the Israeli hostages. Their release was not a part of the deal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-hamas-releases-seven-more-hostages-including-two-israelis-five-thai-citizens-8675164">Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens</a>
This came before the Palestinian militant group released the names of three Israeli hostages to be freed on Saturday (Feb 1).&nbsp;
The three hostages, confirmed by Israel, to be released tomorrow are 65-year-old Keith Siegel, 54-year-old Ofer Calderon and 35-year-old Yarden Bibas, reported Reuters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-confirms-receiving-list-of-three-gaza-hostages-to-be-freed-on-jan-30-8669104">Eight Gaza hostages, 3 Israelis and 5 Thais, to be released tomorrow, says Netanyahu's office</a>
Siegel is a US citizen, originally from North Carolina.&nbsp;He was taken hostage with his wife Aviva from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The wife was freed in November 2023.&nbsp;
Calderon, along with his two children, was kidnapped on October 7, 2023. Both the children were released in the previous hostage exchange.&nbsp;
Bibas was kidnapped along with his wife and two sons, 4-year-old Ariel and 10-month-old Kfir. They were all taken hostage from Kibbutz Nir Oz. After Hamas' claim that both the children were killed along with the mother in an Israeli strike, there has been no confirmation from Israel on it so far.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-release-six-hostages-including-arbel-yehud-israel-says-gazans-can-now-return-home-8656726">Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Under the deal, the crossing of Gaza's southern border was planned to be open after the Palestinian terror group released all the female hostages in Gaza, including Israeli soldiers and civilians. 

The Rafah Border Crossing between Egypt and Gaza will reopen on Friday (Jan 31) for the passage of Palestinian civilians instead of its scheduled day - Sunday (Feb 2). Israel and Hamas had agreed to reopen the border on Feb 2 in the Gaza ceasefire deal. Also read: Hamas releases names of three Israeli hostages to be freed Saturday Under the deal, the crossing of Gaza's southern border was planned to be open after the Palestinian terror group released all the female hostages in Gaza, including Israeli soldiers and civilians. In the third round of the Gaza hostages exchange on Thursday (Jan 30), two females, one IDF soldier and one civilian, were released by Hamas. Five Thai nationals were also released with the Israeli hostages. Their release was not a part of the deal. Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens This came before the Palestinian militant group released the names of three Israeli hostages to be freed on Saturday (Feb 1). The three hostages, confirmed by Israel, to be released tomorrow are 65-year-old Keith Siegel, 54-year-old Ofer Calderon and 35-year-old Yarden Bibas, reported Reuters. Also read: Eight Gaza hostages, 3 Israelis and 5 Thais, to be released tomorrow, says Netanyahu's office Siegel is a US citizen, originally from North Carolina. He was taken hostage with his wife Aviva from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The wife was freed in November 2023. Calderon, along with his two children, was kidnapped on October 7, 2023. Both the children were released in the previous hostage exchange. Bibas was kidnapped along with his wife and two sons, 4-year-old Ariel and 10-month-old Kfir. They were all taken hostage from Kibbutz Nir Oz. After Hamas' claim that both the children were killed along with the mother in an Israeli strike, there has been no confirmation from Israel on it so far. Also read: Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud (With inputs from agencies)

Rafah crossing between Gaza, Egypt to reopen today instead of Sunday: Report

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news