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Former US Representative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tulsi-gabbard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tulsi Gabbard</a>, President Donald Trump's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, faced her Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday (Jan 30).
The hearing was opened by Senator Tom Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas and chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. He said that Gabbard&rsquo;s nomination had attracted &ldquo;a bit more interest and attention than do most nominees before this committee.&rdquo; Despite this, he assured that she would be &ldquo;treated with the exact same respect, consideration and professionalism that we extended to every nominee.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected'</a>
However, Senator Mark Warner, the committee&rsquo;s vice-chairman, expressed reservations about Gabbard&rsquo;s suitability for the role. The Virginia senator said, &ldquo;I continue to have significant concerns about your judgment and your qualifications to meet the standard set by law.&rdquo; He warned that her confirmation could potentially impact intelligence-sharing with allied nations.
Warner accused Gabbard of frequently excusing the actions of adversaries and instead blaming the United States and its allies. He also raised concerns over her previous statements regarding Edward Snowden, the former intelligence contractor who leaked classified information before fleeing to Russia. Warner asked whether she still considered Snowden &ldquo;brave&rdquo; and if she believed he deserved a pardon.
Also read: <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">'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was&nbsp;&lsquo;preventable&rsquo;</a>
Gabbard did not give a direct response but said that Snowden &ldquo;broke the law&rdquo; while also exposing significant &ldquo;egregious, illegal and unconstitutional&rdquo; activities within the US intelligence community. Warner, who referred to Snowden as a traitor, pressed for a clear yes or no response, but Gabbard refused to provide one.
<h2>Gabbard criticises past intelligence leaders in her opening statement</h2>
During her opening statement, Gabbard criticised past intelligence leaders, accusing former CIA and Director of National Intelligence officials of &ldquo;weaponisation and politicisation of the intelligence community.&rdquo;
She thanked Trump for the nomination, saying that she was &ldquo;honoured and grateful&rdquo; to be considered for the position, particularly &ldquo;at a time when trust in the intelligence community, unfortunately, is at an all-time low.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aid-experts-reject-donald-trumps-50-million-gaza-condom-spending-claim-8673502">Aid experts reject Donald Trump's $50 million 'Gaza condom' spending claim</a>
Defending herself against accusations questioning her loyalty to the United States and the Constitution, Gabbard condemned what she described as &ldquo;lies and smears.&rdquo;
<h2>'Not Putin&rsquo;s puppet, Assad&rsquo;s puppet, Modi&rsquo;s puppet': Tulsi Gabbard</h2>
She said, &ldquo;These attacks accuse me of being Trump&rsquo;s puppet, Putin&rsquo;s puppet, Assad&rsquo;s puppet, a guru&rsquo;s puppet, Modi&rsquo;s puppet, not recognising the absurdity of simultaneously being the puppet of five different puppet masters.&rdquo; Gabbard went on to argue that such tactics had been used against Trump as well.
&ldquo;The fact is, what truly unsettles my political opponents is I refuse to be their puppet. I have no love for Assad or Gaddafi or any dictator. I just hate al-Qaeda. I hate that we have leaders who cosy up to Islamist extremists, minimising them to so-called rebels,&rdquo; she said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Tulsi Gabbard criticised past intelligence leaders, accusing former CIA and Director of National Intelligence officials of “weaponisation of intelligence community.”

Former US Representative Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, faced her Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday (Jan 30). The hearing was opened by Senator Tom Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas and chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. He said that Gabbard’s nomination had attracted “a bit more interest and attention than do most nominees before this committee.” Despite this, he assured that she would be “treated with the exact same respect, consideration and professionalism that we extended to every nominee.” Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected' However, Senator Mark Warner, the committee’s vice-chairman, expressed reservations about Gabbard’s suitability for the role. The Virginia senator said, “I continue to have significant concerns about your judgment and your qualifications to meet the standard set by law.” He warned that her confirmation could potentially impact intelligence-sharing with allied nations. Warner accused Gabbard of frequently excusing the actions of adversaries and instead blaming the United States and its allies. He also raised concerns over her previous statements regarding Edward Snowden, the former intelligence contractor who leaked classified information before fleeing to Russia. Warner asked whether she still considered Snowden “brave” and if she believed he deserved a pardon. Also read: 'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was ‘preventable’ Gabbard did not give a direct response but said that Snowden “broke the law” while also exposing significant “egregious, illegal and unconstitutional” activities within the US intelligence community. Warner, who referred to Snowden as a traitor, pressed for a clear yes or no response, but Gabbard refused to provide one. Gabbard criticises past intelligence leaders in her opening statement During her opening statement, Gabbard criticised past intelligence leaders, accusing former CIA and Director of National Intelligence officials of “weaponisation and politicisation of the intelligence community.” She thanked Trump for the nomination, saying that she was “honoured and grateful” to be considered for the position, particularly “at a time when trust in the intelligence community, unfortunately, is at an all-time low.” Also read: Aid experts reject Donald Trump's $50 million 'Gaza condom' spending claim Defending herself against accusations questioning her loyalty to the United States and the Constitution, Gabbard condemned what she described as “lies and smears.” 'Not Putin’s puppet, Assad’s puppet, Modi’s puppet': Tulsi Gabbard She said, “These attacks accuse me of being Trump’s puppet, Putin’s puppet, Assad’s puppet, a guru’s puppet, Modi’s puppet, not recognising the absurdity of simultaneously being the puppet of five different puppet masters.” Gabbard went on to argue that such tactics had been used against Trump as well. “The fact is, what truly unsettles my political opponents is I refuse to be their puppet. I have no love for Assad or Gaddafi or any dictator. I just hate al-Qaeda. I hate that we have leaders who cosy up to Islamist extremists, minimising them to so-called rebels,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Not Putin’s or Modi’s puppet’: Trump's US top spy pick Tulsi Gabbard defends loyalty at confirmation hearing

US President Donald Trump will address the nation from the White House briefing room at 11 am ET to speak about Wednesday&rsquo;s deadly Washington DC place crash.&nbsp;
Hamas released all eight Gaza hostages, three Israelis and five Thais, on Thursday (Jan 30).&nbsp;
Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson claimed a "foreign power" was behind the murder of Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee who burnt the Quran during protests in 2023.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more
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<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/qH6vBMmoWzNK8AzHf3Ko.png" alt=" Emergency response teams including Washington, DC Fire and EMS, DC Police and others, assess airplane wreckage in the Potomac River Photograph: (AFP) ">
Donald Trump will address the nation from the White House briefing room at 11 am ET to speak about Wednesday&rsquo;s deadly Washington DC place crash.
<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>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/oyU68U5YRPljkpifXYIF.png" alt=" Hamas escort Arbel Yehoud to hand her over to a Red Cross team Khan Younis on Thursday. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Palestinian militant group Hamas released former hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals on Thursday (Jan 30). The released hostages were later handed over to Israel Defence Forces troops in the Gaza Strip, the military said
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-power-behind-murder-of-quran-burner-salwan-momika-sweden-8675562">'Foreign power' behind murder of Quran-burner Salwan Momika: Sweden</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/bka7vHjOBxuR4BsvHDiI.png" alt=" An investigation has been launched into the murder and five people have been arrested so far after Momika was shot on Thursday (Jan 30) and was declared dead in the hospital.&nbsp; Photograph: (AFP) ">
Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson claimed a "foreign power" was behind the murder of Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee who burnt the Quran during protests in 2023.&nbsp;
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Two buses carrying freed Palestinian prisoners left Ofer prison late Thursday after a delay by Israel over the chaos during the hostages release in Gaza, AFP reported.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-of-america-or-gulf-of-mexico-how-google-deals-with-controversial-geography-8675623">'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/tZd904apg0jRg8k3z6MT.png" alt=" The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet.&nbsp; Photograph: (Canva) ">US President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech on January 20, said his administration is planning to name the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America".&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-fire-in-tents-odisha-cancels-special-bus-service-all-updates-of-religious-gathering-8675984">Maha Kumbh 2025: Fire in tents; Odisha cancels special bus service. Know all major updates</a>
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To ensure smooth traffic management and provide essential services to pilgrims at the Maka Kumbh, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) deployed 16,000 workers in Prayagraj on Thursday (Jan 30).&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/she-texted-me-heartbreaking-last-chats-moments-before-washington-plane-crash-8675047">'She texted me...': Heartbreaking last chats moments before Washington plane crash</a>
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The last conversation between the pilot of the military aircraft and the control tower showed a tragic situation moments before it collided mid-air with American Airlines Flight 5342 and crashed.&nbsp;
<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">'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was &lsquo;preventable&rsquo;</a>
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US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the "helicopter was aware that there was a plane in the area," in a press conference held on Thursday (Jan 30) morning about the Washington DC plane crash.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-no-opening-ceremony-as-india-skipper-rohit-sharma-avoids-pakistan-trip-report-8675945">Champions Trophy 2025: No opening ceremony as India skipper Rohit Sharma avoids Pakistan trip - Report</a>
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There will be no opening ceremony in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) receives a mini-setback even before the coveted tournament starts.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/squid-game-final-season-release-date-revealed-read-all-details-of-season-3-here-8675812">Squid Game final season release date revealed! Read all details here</a>
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The wait is finally over! The third and final season of Korean drama&nbsp;Squid Game&nbsp;is set to release in July. Two months after its premiere on season 2, Netflix has revealed that the third season of its smash-hit show is set to arrive on the streaming giant.
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Here are the top 10 world news from across the world. 

US President Donald Trump will address the nation from the White House briefing room at 11 am ET to speak about Wednesday’s deadly Washington DC place crash. Hamas released all eight Gaza hostages, three Israelis and five Thais, on Thursday (Jan 30). Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson claimed a "foreign power" was behind the murder of Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee who burnt the Quran during protests in 2023. Click on the headlines to read more Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected' Donald Trump will address the nation from the White House briefing room at 11 am ET to speak about Wednesday’s deadly Washington DC place crash. Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens Palestinian militant group Hamas released former hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals on Thursday (Jan 30). The released hostages were later handed over to Israel Defence Forces troops in the Gaza Strip, the military said 'Foreign power' behind murder of Quran-burner Salwan Momika: Sweden Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson claimed a "foreign power" was behind the murder of Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee who burnt the Quran during protests in 2023. Gaza ceasefire: Freed Palestinian prisoners leave Israeli prison after delay Two buses carrying freed Palestinian prisoners left Ofer prison late Thursday after a delay by Israel over the chaos during the hostages release in Gaza, AFP reported. 'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography US President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech on January 20, said his administration is planning to name the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America". Maha Kumbh 2025: Fire in tents; Odisha cancels special bus service. Know all major updates To ensure smooth traffic management and provide essential services to pilgrims at the Maka Kumbh, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) deployed 16,000 workers in Prayagraj on Thursday (Jan 30). 'She texted me...': Heartbreaking last chats moments before Washington plane crash The last conversation between the pilot of the military aircraft and the control tower showed a tragic situation moments before it collided mid-air with American Airlines Flight 5342 and crashed. 'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was ‘preventable’ US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the "helicopter was aware that there was a plane in the area," in a press conference held on Thursday (Jan 30) morning about the Washington DC plane crash. Champions Trophy 2025: No opening ceremony as India skipper Rohit Sharma avoids Pakistan trip - Report There will be no opening ceremony in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) receives a mini-setback even before the coveted tournament starts. Squid Game final season release date revealed! Read all details here The wait is finally over! The third and final season of Korean drama Squid Game is set to release in July. Two months after its premiere on season 2, Netflix has revealed that the third season of its smash-hit show is set to arrive on the streaming giant.

Top 10 world news: Washington plane crash updates; Hamas releases 8 hostages, including 5 Thais, and more

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates: A devastating mid-air collision between a passenger jet from Kansas and a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport, sent the aircraft plummeting into Washington's Potomac River, the officials reported on Wednesday (Jan 29). The incident triggered a massive emergency response, prompting authorities to ground all flights in the area.&nbsp;American Airlines said that 60 passengers and four crew members were aboard the commercial jet.
<h2>Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates</h2>
"American Eagle Flight 5342 en route from Wichita, Kansas (ICT), to Washington, D.C. (DCA) was involved in an accident at DCA," the airline said in a statement. "There were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the aircraft."
Three US Army soldiers were aboard the Black Hawk Sikorsky H-60, military helicopter, that collider with PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 from Wichita, Kansas, a US Army official said, according to news agency AFP.
<h2>Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates and Latest News</h2>

Donald Trump will address the nation from the White House briefing room at 11 am ET to speak about Wednesday&rsquo;s deadly Washington DC place crash.
&nbsp;

US President Trump to speak on Washington plane crash

"May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise," Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: President Trump says he's briefed on the situation

The operations on the Regan National Airport are set to begin at 11:00 AM (Local time).

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: First passengers to take-off from airport after collision

"Jill and I are praying for the families of the victims who tragically lost their lives in the plane and helicopter crash near DCA. We are immensely grateful to the brave first responders and emergency personnel on the scene," former US president Joe Biden posted on X.

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Biden condoles loss of lives; thanks first responders and emergency personnel

Fire chief said that officials are confident they will recover all bodies of those killed in the midair collision.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m confident that we will do that, and that will take us a little bit of time, though. It may involve some more equipment,&rdquo; Donnelly said about the recovery effort.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Officials confident they will recover bodies of those killed in midair collision

The American Airlines have shared a toll-free number for the family of victims who were onboard Flight 5342 when it collided midair with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport.&nbsp;
"&ldquo;If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215," the Airlines said.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: American Airlines shares toll-free number for victims' family

Fire Chief Donnelly said that 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane, and one from the helicopter.&nbsp;
He further thanked a lengthy list of various agencies and departments who came to assist the operation.

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: 27 bodies recovered from crash site 

DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said that 300 people responded to crash in 'frigid' conditions, adding that he does not believe there are any survivors.&nbsp;
Donnelly said that despite these groups' efforts, they are now switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation.
"We don't believe there are any survivors from this accident," he said.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Fire Chief says 'We don't believe there are any survivors'

At least 30 bodies have been recovered from water at Washington DC crash site, Guardian reported citing local media.&nbsp;
Two sources familiar with search efforts told local station NBC4 that the emergency crews have recovered more than 30 bodies.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: At least 30 bodies recovered from water at crash site 

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the collision between the Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Eagle jet was "absolutely tragic."
"Search and rescue efforts still ongoing," he said in a post on X.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Hegseth calls the incident 'absolutely tragic'

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser will be holding a press briefing at 7:30 am ET at Reagan National Airport.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: DC Mayor to hold press briefing at 7:30 am ET 

After the crash, human remains and aircraft debris have been reported washing up on the Virginia side of the river.
The Guardian reported that the plane broke into multiple pieces and was found upside down. Diving teams have access to parts of the cabin.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Human remains, debris wash ashore

Kremlin expressed condolence to the families of Russians who lost their lives in the American Airlines plane crash in Washington Thursday.
Russian ice skating coaches and former world champions Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were on board the plane when it crashed.&nbsp;

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Kremlin expresses condolence to Russians killed 

Multiple bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River in Washington after the collision between a passenger jet and military helicopter, US media reported Thursday.
CBS News, quoting a police official, said "at least 19 bodies were recovered", while NBC said "more than a dozen" had been found, citing two sources familiar.

At least 19 bodies recovered from Potomac River

Multiple bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site: US media

Multiple bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site: US media

Several members of the US figure skating community were aboard the passenger jet that crashed in Washington after colliding with a military helicopter, US media reported Thursday.
"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims' families closely in our hearts," the Washington Post reported, quoting a statement from US Figure Skating.

Several members of US figure skating community aboard crashed plane: media

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday voiced support for the United States and praised rescue teams after the "shocking" collision of a US passenger jet with a helicopter in Washington.
"Our condolences to the victims' families and loved ones. Our words of support go out to President Trump and the American people during this tragic time," Zelensky said in a post on social media.

Zelensky offers Trump, US condolences over 'shocking' jet crash

The wrecked fuselages of both the US military helicopter and the commercial jet involved in a collision over the Potomac River are lying in the water, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser told a press briefing early Thursday.
Search efforts by an estimated 300 responding personnel including divers were impeded by the "very dark, very murky" water at near-frigid temperatures, added Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly.

Helicopter, jet involved in crash both 'in the water' of Potomac River: DC mayor

Responders conducting search and rescue operations were facing "extremely rough" conditions in the Potomac River after a passenger jet and US military helicopter collided midair, an official said early Thursday.
High winds, low night-time visibility, cold weather and murky water were combining to make "a very tough condition to dive in" as roughly 300 emergency responders searched the Potomac for any survivors of the crash, Washington fire chief John Donnelly told reporters at Reagan National Airport.&nbsp;

Jet crash responders facing 'extremely rough' conditions on Potomac River, says DC fire chief

Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly said, &ldquo;The conditions out there are extremely rough for responders&rdquo; with cold weather and intense wind.

Close to 300 responders involved in the rescue operation on the crash site 

Washington&rsquo;s Reagan National Airport will reopen at 11 am on Thursday (Jan 30).

Washington’s Reagan National Airport will reopen at on Thursday

Officials hold press briefing at Reagan National Airport did not make any announcement related to the lives lost in the incident.
Sen. Roger Marshall, of Kansas, said, &ldquo;When one person dies it&rsquo;s a tragedy, but when many, many, many people die it&rsquo;s an unbearable sorrow.&rdquo;

Officials did not announce number of lives lost in the incident

The chief executive of American Airlines expressed "deep sorrow" after one of its aircraft crashed following a collision with a military helicopter over the US capital late Wednesday.
"I'd like to express our deep sorrow about these events," said CEO Robert Isom in a video statement, adding: "This is a difficult day for all of us."

American Airlines CEO expresses 'deep sorrow' at Washington crash

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said the crash between a US Army helicopter and a passenger jet near Washington "should have been prevented."
"Why didn't the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, adding: "NOT GOOD!!!"

Trump says Washington air crash 'should have been prevented'

The US Army Black Hawk helicopter involved in Wednesday's crash near Washington was on "a training flight" when it collided midair with a passenger jet, a military spokesman said.&nbsp;
The confirmation by a public affairs official was posted on X by new US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who himself described the accident as "absolutely tragic" and said search and rescue efforts were "still ongoing."

Helicopter that collided with jet was on 'training flight': US military spokesperson

At least 18 bodies have been reportedly removed from the Potomac River after a commercial plane from Kansas collided mid-air with a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington DC on Wednesday (Jan 29), a police official at the scene told CBS News.

At least 18 bodies reportedly removed from the Potomac River

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates: A mid-air collision between a Kansas passenger jet and a military helicopter near Reagan Airport crashed into the Potomac River on Jan 29.


Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates: A devastating mid-air collision between a passenger jet from Kansas and a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport, sent the aircraft plummeting into Washington's Potomac River, the officials reported on Wednesday (Jan 29). The incident triggered a massive emergency response, prompting authorities to ground all flights in the area. American Airlines said that 60 passengers and four crew members were aboard the commercial jet. Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates "American Eagle Flight 5342 en route from Wichita, Kansas (ICT), to Washington, D.C. (DCA) was involved in an accident at DCA," the airline said in a statement. "There were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the aircraft." Three US Army soldiers were aboard the Black Hawk Sikorsky H-60, military helicopter, that collider with PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 from Wichita, Kansas, a US Army official said, according to news agency AFP. Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE Updates and Latest News

Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Trump to speak on mid-air collision after official says 'no survivors expected'

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the "helicopter was aware that there was a plane in the area," in a press conference held on Thursday (Jan 30) morning about the Washington DC plane crash.
Duffy added, "We&rsquo;re going to wait for all the information to come in from this vantage point but to back up what the president said and what I&rsquo;ve seen so far, do I think this was preventable? Absolutely."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-no-survivors-expected-says-fire-chief-as-rescue-turns-to-recovery-8675409">Washington DC plane crash: 'No survivors expected' says fire chief as rescue turns&nbsp;to&nbsp;recovery</a>
Earlier, US President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform: "The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn&rsquo;t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn&rsquo;t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?"&nbsp; 
An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air before both crashed into the Potomac River on Wednesday (Jan 29) night. According to officials, 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane and one from the helicopter. Officials believe that &ldquo;there are no survivors&rdquo; left.&nbsp;
<h2>Air traffic controllers had warned the Army helicopter: Report</h2>
Air traffic controllers had warned the Army helicopter that it was getting dangerously close to an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-300-rescuers-battle-cold-darkness-8-feet-deep-in-potomac-river-to-recover-victims-8675030">American Airlines</a> passenger plane, moments before the collision. This was revealed in a recording of the air traffic control radio exchange, as reported by the New York Post.
Less than 30 seconds before the crash, an air traffic controller radioed the helicopter, asking, "Have you spotted the CRJ?" This referred to American Airlines Flight 5342, a CRJ 700 aircraft, according to FlightRadar24.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: No survivors expected, says fire chief after helicopter crash</a>
The mid-air collision took place at precisely 8:48:48 pm on Wednesday night.
<h2>Timeline of events leading to the Washington, DC, plane crash</h2>
Based on preliminary flight maps and air traffic control audio, here's how the crash happened:
<ul>
<li>5:18 PM - American Airlines Flight 5342, a CRJ 700, departs from Wichita, Kansas, en route to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.</li>
<li>8:39:40 PM - A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter departs from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, on a training exercise with three personnel on board, flying north along the Potomac River from Langley, Virginia.</li>
</ul>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-didnt-helicopter-go-up-or-down-trump-says-the-crash-should-have-been-prevented-8674669">'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have&nbsp;been&nbsp;prevented'</a>
<ul>
<li>8:40 PM - Flight 5342 begins its approach towards Runway 33 at Reagan National, south of Washington, D.C.</li>
<li>8:48:38 PM - Air traffic control contacts the Army UH-60 helicopter, designated PAT25, and asks, "Do you have the CRJ in sight?" The helicopter pilot confirms visual contact and requests "visual separation," indicating an intention to get away from the plane&rsquo;s path.</li>
<li>8:48:56 PM - Flight 5342 and the helicopter collide over the Potomac River at an altitude of approximately 300 feet. At the time, the plane was travelling at around 145 mph, based on the final readings from FlightRadar24. Air traffic controllers react in shock, with one heard asking, "Did you see that?"</li>
</ul>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air and crashed into the Potomac River on Wednesday (Jan 29) night.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the "helicopter was aware that there was a plane in the area," in a press conference held on Thursday (Jan 30) morning about the Washington DC plane crash. Duffy added, "We’re going to wait for all the information to come in from this vantage point but to back up what the president said and what I’ve seen so far, do I think this was preventable? Absolutely." Also read: Washington DC plane crash: 'No survivors expected' says fire chief as rescue turns to recovery Earlier, US President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform: "The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?" An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air before both crashed into the Potomac River on Wednesday (Jan 29) night. According to officials, 27 bodies have been recovered from the plane and one from the helicopter. Officials believe that “there are no survivors” left. Air traffic controllers had warned the Army helicopter: Report Air traffic controllers had warned the Army helicopter that it was getting dangerously close to an American Airlines passenger plane, moments before the collision. This was revealed in a recording of the air traffic control radio exchange, as reported by the New York Post. Less than 30 seconds before the crash, an air traffic controller radioed the helicopter, asking, "Have you spotted the CRJ?" This referred to American Airlines Flight 5342, a CRJ 700 aircraft, according to FlightRadar24. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: No survivors expected, says fire chief after helicopter crash The mid-air collision took place at precisely 8:48:48 pm on Wednesday night. Timeline of events leading to the Washington, DC, plane crash Based on preliminary flight maps and air traffic control audio, here's how the crash happened: 5:18 PM - American Airlines Flight 5342, a CRJ 700, departs from Wichita, Kansas, en route to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. 8:39:40 PM - A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter departs from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, on a training exercise with three personnel on board, flying north along the Potomac River from Langley, Virginia. Also read: 'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented' 8:40 PM - Flight 5342 begins its approach towards Runway 33 at Reagan National, south of Washington, D.C. 8:48:38 PM - Air traffic control contacts the Army UH-60 helicopter, designated PAT25, and asks, "Do you have the CRJ in sight?" The helicopter pilot confirms visual contact and requests "visual separation," indicating an intention to get away from the plane’s path. 8:48:56 PM - Flight 5342 and the helicopter collide over the Potomac River at an altitude of approximately 300 feet. At the time, the plane was travelling at around 145 mph, based on the final readings from FlightRadar24. Air traffic controllers react in shock, with one heard asking, "Did you see that?" (With inputs from agencies)

'Helicopter knew there was a plane': Trump, US transportation secretary say deadly Washington DC crash was ‘preventable’

US President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech on January 20, said his administration is planning to name the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America". He also said the plan includes changing the name of the North America's highest peak, Denali, to Mount McKinley.&nbsp;
Google has now said that it will show the name of both places as "Gulf of America" and "Mount McKinley" if and when the Trump administration makes the plan official.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-to-write-to-google-for-changing-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-on-its-maps-8669763">Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps</a>
In a post on the social media platform X Monday (Jan 27), Google said applying name changes, when it becomes official in government records, has been a "longstanding practice" by the organisation. It was referring to the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS).
"When that happens, we will update Google Maps in the US quickly to show Mount McKinley and Gulf of America," the post said.&nbsp;
<h2>When will it happen?&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-maps-to-rename-gulf-of-mexico-as-gulf-of-america-for-us-users-8662129">Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as &lsquo;Gulf of America&rsquo; for US users</a>
Donald Trump's administration said on January 24 that it has already renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Trump signed multiple executive orders on his first day in the White House, including one to rename the Alaskan Mountain.
The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-officially-renames-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-in-us-will-it-catch-on-internationally-8652331">Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally?</a>
Google said as soon as the government changes the name officially, the new names will be updated.&nbsp;
<h2>Will names change for everyone?&nbsp;</h2>
In its statement, Google added that "when official names vary between countries, Maps users see their official local name. Everyone in the rest of the world sees both names. That applies here, too."
This means that people in the United States will see the name "Gulf of America" while those in Mexico will see "Gulf of Mexico."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-trump-inauguration-trump-20-gulf-of-mexico-gofo-of-america-8642297">Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that?</a>
Google users in the rest of the world will see both names while using Google Maps, but one name will be in a bracket. Although Google has not commented on the order of names, a report by The New York Times said while quoting sources that "Gulf of Mexico" would come first.&nbsp;
<h3>How Google deals with disputed locations?&nbsp;</h3>
Around 1 million people across the world use Google Maps and it is the world's most-used navigation and mapping app.&nbsp;
As per Google's statement, when an area is in a dispute over the name, it shows the name based on the user's location.&nbsp;
In a similar case, there is a body of water known as a gulf between Iran and Saudi Arabia. It is known as the Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf.&nbsp; In 2012, Iran threatened Google, "If Google does not correct its mistake as soon as possible, we will file an official complaint against Google." This was after Google did not name the body of water on its map.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-hillary-clinton-laughs-as-trump-says-gulf-of-mexico-will-be-renamed-during-inaugural-speech-8640118">Watch: Hillary Clinton laughs as Trump says Gulf of Mexico will be renamed during inaugural speech</a>
That time Google rejected the allegations, saying it had never labelled the body of water. Now, it displays both names based on the location of the user.&nbsp;
When it comes to border disputes, Google says, "Undisputed international boundaries, like the one between the United States and Canada, are shown as a solid grey line. Treaty and provisional boundaries, which are temporary, are displayed as a dashed grey line."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-marjorie-green-promises-to-introduce-bill-renaming-gulf-of-mexico-to-gulf-of-america-asap-8601255">US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet. 

US President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech on January 20, said his administration is planning to name the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America". He also said the plan includes changing the name of the North America's highest peak, Denali, to Mount McKinley. Google has now said that it will show the name of both places as "Gulf of America" and "Mount McKinley" if and when the Trump administration makes the plan official. Also read: Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps In a post on the social media platform X Monday (Jan 27), Google said applying name changes, when it becomes official in government records, has been a "longstanding practice" by the organisation. It was referring to the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS). "When that happens, we will update Google Maps in the US quickly to show Mount McKinley and Gulf of America," the post said. When will it happen? Also read: Google Maps to rename Gulf of Mexico as ‘Gulf of America’ for US users Donald Trump's administration said on January 24 that it has already renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Trump signed multiple executive orders on his first day in the White House, including one to rename the Alaskan Mountain. The US Department has said the process of implementing the new names is in continuation - but the official maps of the locations by the government are not done yet. Also read: Trump officially renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' in US: Will it catch on internationally? Google said as soon as the government changes the name officially, the new names will be updated. Will names change for everyone? In its statement, Google added that "when official names vary between countries, Maps users see their official local name. Everyone in the rest of the world sees both names. That applies here, too." This means that people in the United States will see the name "Gulf of America" while those in Mexico will see "Gulf of Mexico." Also read: Explained: Trump wants to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America. Can he do that? Google users in the rest of the world will see both names while using Google Maps, but one name will be in a bracket. Although Google has not commented on the order of names, a report by The New York Times said while quoting sources that "Gulf of Mexico" would come first. How Google deals with disputed locations? Around 1 million people across the world use Google Maps and it is the world's most-used navigation and mapping app. As per Google's statement, when an area is in a dispute over the name, it shows the name based on the user's location. In a similar case, there is a body of water known as a gulf between Iran and Saudi Arabia. It is known as the Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf. In 2012, Iran threatened Google, "If Google does not correct its mistake as soon as possible, we will file an official complaint against Google." This was after Google did not name the body of water on its map. Also read: Watch: Hillary Clinton laughs as Trump says Gulf of Mexico will be renamed during inaugural speech That time Google rejected the allegations, saying it had never labelled the body of water. Now, it displays both names based on the location of the user. When it comes to border disputes, Google says, "Undisputed international boundaries, like the one between the United States and Canada, are shown as a solid grey line. Treaty and provisional boundaries, which are temporary, are displayed as a dashed grey line." Also read: US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP' (With inputs from agencies)

'Gulf of America' or 'Gulf of Mexico': How Google deals with controversial geography

Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson claimed a "foreign power" was behind the murder of Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee who burnt the Quran during protests in 2023.&nbsp;
"I can guarantee that the security services are deeply involved in this because there is obviously a risk that there is also a link to a foreign power," the PM said in a press conference, AFP reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-salwan-momika-the-man-shot-dead-in-sweden-for-burning-quran-8674357">Killing of Salwan Momika, man who burnt Quran, broadcast live on social media, suggest reports</a>
Momika, a Christian from Iraq, spiked international tensions in 2023 by staging the Quran burnings. He was shot just hours before a court verdict in his trial in the case that charged him with "agitation against an ethnic group".
<h2>'I'm next on the list'</h2>
An investigation has been launched into the murder, and five people have been arrested so far after Momika was shot on Thursday (Jan 30) and was declared dead in the hospital.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/claim-vs-truth-is-former-iraqi-salwan-momika-really-dead-in-norway-707292">Claim vs Truth? Is Iraqi refugee and Islam critic Salwan Momika really dead in Norway?</a>
"We're in the very early stages... there's a lot of information gathering. Five people have been detained suspected of involvement in the crime," Prosecutor Rasmus Oman told AFP.&nbsp;
Several media outlets further claimed the shooting may have been broadcast live on social media.
Salwan Najem, a fellow protester who took part in the Quran burning, is also facing the trial. After the murder of Momika, Najem took to the social media platform X and said, "I'm next on the list."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-gives-religious-authorities-power-to-govern-marriage-laws-potentially-paving-way-for-underage-marriage-8645952">Iraq gives religious authorities power to govern marriage laws, potentially paving way for underage marriage</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6jdnm7f-uzh7jn1x-znfsmamx">
Jag &auml;r n&auml;sta<a href="https://t.co/BbXL5P9lga">https://t.co/BbXL5P9lga</a>
&mdash; Salwan Najem (@NajemSalwan) <a href="https://twitter.com/NajemSalwan/status/1884852309512843599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'Did not want to...'</h2>
The Swedish Migration Agency had decided to expel Momika after his act in 2023, but due to the threat against him in Iraq, the decision was not implemented.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-pm-urges-us-president-elect-donald-trump-to-work-towards-ending-wars-in-west-asia-774792">Iraqi PM urges US President-elect Donald Trump to work towards ending wars in West Asia</a>
Speaking to Aftonbladet in 2023, Momika had said he did not want to harm Sweden, a country that "received" him and "preserved" his dignity.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | An investigation has been launched into the murder and five people have been arrested so far after Momika was shot on Thursday (Jan 30) and was declared dead in the hospital. 

Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson claimed a "foreign power" was behind the murder of Salwan Momika, the Iraqi refugee who burnt the Quran during protests in 2023. "I can guarantee that the security services are deeply involved in this because there is obviously a risk that there is also a link to a foreign power," the PM said in a press conference, AFP reported. Also read: Killing of Salwan Momika, man who burnt Quran, broadcast live on social media, suggest reports Momika, a Christian from Iraq, spiked international tensions in 2023 by staging the Quran burnings. He was shot just hours before a court verdict in his trial in the case that charged him with "agitation against an ethnic group". 'I'm next on the list' An investigation has been launched into the murder, and five people have been arrested so far after Momika was shot on Thursday (Jan 30) and was declared dead in the hospital. Also read: Claim vs Truth? Is Iraqi refugee and Islam critic Salwan Momika really dead in Norway? "We're in the very early stages... there's a lot of information gathering. Five people have been detained suspected of involvement in the crime," Prosecutor Rasmus Oman told AFP. Several media outlets further claimed the shooting may have been broadcast live on social media. Salwan Najem, a fellow protester who took part in the Quran burning, is also facing the trial. After the murder of Momika, Najem took to the social media platform X and said, "I'm next on the list." Also read: Iraq gives religious authorities power to govern marriage laws, potentially paving way for underage marriage Jag är nästahttps://t.co/BbXL5P9lga — Salwan Najem (@NajemSalwan) January 30, 2025 'Did not want to...' The Swedish Migration Agency had decided to expel Momika after his act in 2023, but due to the threat against him in Iraq, the decision was not implemented. Also read: Iraqi PM urges US President-elect Donald Trump to work towards ending wars in West Asia Speaking to Aftonbladet in 2023, Momika had said he did not want to harm Sweden, a country that "received" him and "preserved" his dignity. (With inputs from agencies)

'Foreign power' behind murder of Quran-burner Salwan Momika: Sweden

Two buses carrying freed Palestinian prisoners left Ofer prison late Thursday after a delay by Israel over the chaos during the Gaza hostages release, AFP reported. Israel confirmed 110 Palestinian prisoners have been released in the Gaza deal.&nbsp;
Reuters reported that Hamas was informed by the Red Cross that the transfer of the inmates would take place late Thursday.&nbsp;
Israel had delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners who were expected to be released after the release of the Israeli hostages on Thursday (Jan 30). The delay was in protest against the chaotic scenes during the release of the hostages.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, together with Defence Minister Israel Katz, ordered a delay in the release of terrorists slated to be freed today - until the safe passage of our hostages can be guaranteed in the next releases,&rdquo; Netanyahu&rsquo;s office said in a statement.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6jctioj-7e7ff6lk-qsp4ry8e">
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, together with Defense Minister Israel Katz, has ordered that the release of the terrorists slated to be released today be delayed until the safe exit of our hostages in the next phases is assured. Israel demands that the mediators see to this.
&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1884952474039038188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
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>
The Jewish nation further said that it has received assurance from the mediators of the Gaza truce for future 'safe release' of Gaza captives.
Previously, an army radio reported the decision is applicable "until further notice".
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>
"The political echelon announced the suspension of the operation to release the terrorists until further notice," the radio said, AFP reported.&nbsp;
The prisoners were on the buses and were ready to be released when the decision came.&nbsp;
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the chaos during the Gaza hostage release on Thursday (Jan 330),describing the situation as "shocking scenes".&nbsp;
Eight Gaza hostages, including three Israeli nationals and five Thais, were released by Hamas.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-tells-netanyahu-israeli-firms-allowed-at-paris-air-show-8656385">French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show</a>
"I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages. This is yet another proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organisation," Netanyahu said in a statement.&nbsp;
"I demand that the mediators ensure such horrific scenes do not recur and guarantee the safety of our hostages," the Israeli PM further said, adding that whoever "dares" to harm Israeli hostages will pay the price.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-might-not-withdraw-from-lebanon-by-sunday-as-per-deadline-report-8650291">Israel won't completely withdraw from Lebanon by Sunday deadline, says PM Netanyahu</a>
As the hostages were handed over to the Israeli authority, chaos erupted in Khan Yunis after hundreds of people gathered to witness the event.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: Israel delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners who were expected to be released in exchange for the Israeli hostages on Thursday. It was to protest against the chaotic scenes during the release of the hostages.

Two buses carrying freed Palestinian prisoners left Ofer prison late Thursday after a delay by Israel over the chaos during the Gaza hostages release, AFP reported. Israel confirmed 110 Palestinian prisoners have been released in the Gaza deal. Reuters reported that Hamas was informed by the Red Cross that the transfer of the inmates would take place late Thursday. Israel had delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners who were expected to be released after the release of the Israeli hostages on Thursday (Jan 30). The delay was in protest against the chaotic scenes during the release of the hostages. “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, together with Defence Minister Israel Katz, ordered a delay in the release of terrorists slated to be freed today - until the safe passage of our hostages can be guaranteed in the next releases,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, together with Defense Minister Israel Katz, has ordered that the release of the terrorists slated to be released today be delayed until the safe exit of our hostages in the next phases is assured. Israel demands that the mediators see to this. — Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 30, 2025 Also read: Eight Gaza hostages, 3 Israelis and 5 Thais, to be released tomorrow, says Netanyahu's office The Jewish nation further said that it has received assurance from the mediators of the Gaza truce for future 'safe release' of Gaza captives. Previously, an army radio reported the decision is applicable "until further notice". Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens "The political echelon announced the suspension of the operation to release the terrorists until further notice," the radio said, AFP reported. The prisoners were on the buses and were ready to be released when the decision came. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the chaos during the Gaza hostage release on Thursday (Jan 330),describing the situation as "shocking scenes". Eight Gaza hostages, including three Israeli nationals and five Thais, were released by Hamas. Also read: French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show "I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages. This is yet another proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organisation," Netanyahu said in a statement. "I demand that the mediators ensure such horrific scenes do not recur and guarantee the safety of our hostages," the Israeli PM further said, adding that whoever "dares" to harm Israeli hostages will pay the price. Also read: Israel won't completely withdraw from Lebanon by Sunday deadline, says PM Netanyahu As the hostages were handed over to the Israeli authority, chaos erupted in Khan Yunis after hundreds of people gathered to witness the event. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: Israel confirms release of 110 Palestinian prisoners

Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and other officials held a press briefing on Thursday (Jan 30) at the Reagan National Airport on the Washington, DC, crash.
John Donnelly, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, Washington, DC, said, "We don't believe there are any survivors from this accident, and we have recovered 27 people from their plane and one from the helicopter. We are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation."
"I speak for all of us when I say, and certainly all Washingtonians, how, very sad we are. This morning we all share in a profound sense of grief. I do want to thank the first responders who acted quickly last night, who ran towards danger, went into a very frigid river, and have worked throughout the night," Mayor Muriel Bowser said.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said that they could not ascertain "why the military aircraft came into the path of the PSA aircraft."
"This was a clear night, last night. The helicopter was in a standard pattern .... the American Airlines flight coming into land was in a standard flight pattern. The fuselage of the American airline plane was inverted. It's been located in three different sections. It's in about waist deep water," said US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air before both crashed into the Potomac River on Wednesday (Jan 29) night. According to local media reports citing a police official, at least 30 bodies have been recovered.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air before both crashed into the Potomac River.

Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and other officials held a press briefing on Thursday (Jan 30) at the Reagan National Airport on the Washington, DC, crash. John Donnelly, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, Washington, DC, said, "We don't believe there are any survivors from this accident, and we have recovered 27 people from their plane and one from the helicopter. We are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation." "I speak for all of us when I say, and certainly all Washingtonians, how, very sad we are. This morning we all share in a profound sense of grief. I do want to thank the first responders who acted quickly last night, who ran towards danger, went into a very frigid river, and have worked throughout the night," Mayor Muriel Bowser said. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said that they could not ascertain "why the military aircraft came into the path of the PSA aircraft." "This was a clear night, last night. The helicopter was in a standard pattern .... the American Airlines flight coming into land was in a standard flight pattern. The fuselage of the American airline plane was inverted. It's been located in three different sections. It's in about waist deep water," said US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. What happened? An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air before both crashed into the Potomac River on Wednesday (Jan 29) night. According to local media reports citing a police official, at least 30 bodies have been recovered. (With inputs from agencies)

Washington DC plane crash: ‘No survivors expected,’ says fire chief as rescue turns to recovery

Palestinian militant group Hamas released former hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals on Thursday (Jan 30). The released hostages were later handed over to Israel Defence Forces troops in the Gaza Strip, the military said.
Hamas had released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day separately.
The released hostages were identified as Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, and Thai nationals, including Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakham, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak.&nbsp;
All the hostages have crossed the border into Israel, the IDF said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-claims-delay-in-aid-delivery-to-gaza-israel-denies-calls-it-fake-news-8669066" rel="dofollow">Hamas claims delay in aid delivery to Gaza; Israel denies, calls it 'fake news'</a>
The Hamas group handed over the seven hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, from where they were taken to Israeli forces in the Netzarim Corridor area.
Yehoud and Mozes will meet with their family members at the IDF facility, while the five Thai nationals will meet Thai officials.
Israeli sources said Yehoud and Mozes are in &ldquo;good health&rdquo; after the chaotic transfer, Channel 12 reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-hands-israel-soldier-agam-berger-over-to-red-cross-in-gazas-jabalia-report-8674176" rel="dofollow">Hamas hands Israeli soldier Agam Berger over to Red Cross in Gaza's Jabalia</a>
"The 7 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment," the IDF said in a post on X.&nbsp; &nbsp; It added, "The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel."
This comes after Hamas released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day.&nbsp;
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" rel="dofollow"> Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud</a>
The five Thai citizens were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while working as agricultural laborers.&nbsp;
There is one other Thai hostage considered by Israel to be alive still in captivity, identified as Pinta Nattapong.
Meanwhile, two other Thai hostages, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, have been declared by Israel to be dead, with their bodies held captive.
<h2>Israel President welcomes return of hostages&nbsp;</h2>
Israel President Isaac Herzog welcomed the return of eight hostages to Israel and slammed the scenes of chaos seen during the handover.
&ldquo;We are moved to tears by the return from captivity of Agam Berger, Arbel Yehoud, and Gadi Mozes, together with five Thai citizens,&rdquo; said Herzog in a statement.
<h2>Netanyahu calls the chaotic release of hostages 'unacceptable'</h2>
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the chaotic release in Khan Younis of seven hostages, who were pushed and shoved by an angry mob as they were handed over to the Red Cross, is unacceptable.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages,&rdquo; Netanyahu said. &ldquo;This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organisation.&rdquo;
Netanyahu said that he "demands the negotiators ensure that such horrific scenes do not occur again, and to guarantee the safety of our hostages.&rdquo;
He further warned, "Whoever dares to harm our hostages &mdash; will pay.&rdquo;
<h2>110 Palestinian prisoners expected to be released&nbsp;</h2>
Israel is expected to release 100 Palestinian prisoners on Thursday as part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">ceasefire agreement</a> and hostage deal.&nbsp;
A fourth hostage-prisoner swap is set to take place during the weekend, however, Hamas on Wednesday accused Israel of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as "fake news".
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World Middle East: The Hamas group handed over seven hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, from where they were taken to Israeli forces in the Netzarim Corridor area. Hamas had released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day.

Palestinian militant group Hamas released former hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals on Thursday (Jan 30). The released hostages were later handed over to Israel Defence Forces troops in the Gaza Strip, the military said. Hamas had released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day separately. The released hostages were identified as Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, and Thai nationals, including Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakham, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak. All the hostages have crossed the border into Israel, the IDF said. Also read: Hamas claims delay in aid delivery to Gaza; Israel denies, calls it 'fake news' The Hamas group handed over the seven hostages to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, from where they were taken to Israeli forces in the Netzarim Corridor area. Yehoud and Mozes will meet with their family members at the IDF facility, while the five Thai nationals will meet Thai officials. Israeli sources said Yehoud and Mozes are in “good health” after the chaotic transfer, Channel 12 reported. Also read: Hamas hands Israeli soldier Agam Berger over to Red Cross in Gaza's Jabalia "The 7 returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment," the IDF said in a post on X. It added, "The IDF salutes and embraces the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel." This comes after Hamas released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger earlier in the day. Also read: Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud The five Thai citizens were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while working as agricultural laborers. There is one other Thai hostage considered by Israel to be alive still in captivity, identified as Pinta Nattapong. Meanwhile, two other Thai hostages, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, have been declared by Israel to be dead, with their bodies held captive. Israel President welcomes return of hostages Israel President Isaac Herzog welcomed the return of eight hostages to Israel and slammed the scenes of chaos seen during the handover. “We are moved to tears by the return from captivity of Agam Berger, Arbel Yehoud, and Gadi Mozes, together with five Thai citizens,” said Herzog in a statement. Netanyahu calls the chaotic release of hostages 'unacceptable' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the chaotic release in Khan Younis of seven hostages, who were pushed and shoved by an angry mob as they were handed over to the Red Cross, is unacceptable. “I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages,” Netanyahu said. “This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organisation.” Netanyahu said that he "demands the negotiators ensure that such horrific scenes do not occur again, and to guarantee the safety of our hostages.” He further warned, "Whoever dares to harm our hostages — will pay.” 110 Palestinian prisoners expected to be released Israel is expected to release 100 Palestinian prisoners on Thursday as part of the ceasefire agreement and hostage deal. A fourth hostage-prisoner swap is set to take place during the weekend, however, Hamas on Wednesday accused Israel of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as "fake news". (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases all eight hostages, including 3 Israelis, five Thai citizens

A Russian drone attack that targeted cities across Ukraine killed at least four people in a Soviet-era residential block in the eastern city of Sumy, the interior ministry said.
Moscow has pummelled Ukrainian cities with dozens of drones or missiles almost daily since it invaded Ukraine in early 2022.
Images distributed by emergency services showed a gaping hole ripped into the side of the building and rescue workers working with headlamps, digging through debris for survivors.
"This is a terrible tragedy, a terrible Russian crime. It is very important that the world does not pause in putting pressure on Russia for this terror," President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media.
Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said four people were killed and nine others, including a child, were wounded in Sumy.
The town lies just over the border from Russia in northeastern Ukraine and has been targeted regularly in Russian aerial attacks. Some 255,672 people lived there before the war.
The Ukrainian air force said Moscow had attacked with 81 drones, including the Iranian-designed Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles.
Their air defence units downed 37 of the drones in various regions, including Sumy and near the capital Kyiv.
In the southern region of Odesa, which lies on the Black Sea, officials said Russian drones targeted the port town of Izmail, one of several important Ukrainian export hubs.&nbsp;
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. &nbsp;

World: Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said four people were killed and nine others, including a child, were wounded in Sumy, in the Russian drone attacks that targeted cities across Ukraine.

A Russian drone attack that targeted cities across Ukraine killed at least four people in a Soviet-era residential block in the eastern city of Sumy, the interior ministry said. Moscow has pummelled Ukrainian cities with dozens of drones or missiles almost daily since it invaded Ukraine in early 2022. Images distributed by emergency services showed a gaping hole ripped into the side of the building and rescue workers working with headlamps, digging through debris for survivors. "This is a terrible tragedy, a terrible Russian crime. It is very important that the world does not pause in putting pressure on Russia for this terror," President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media. Ukraine's human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said four people were killed and nine others, including a child, were wounded in Sumy. The town lies just over the border from Russia in northeastern Ukraine and has been targeted regularly in Russian aerial attacks. Some 255,672 people lived there before the war. The Ukrainian air force said Moscow had attacked with 81 drones, including the Iranian-designed Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles. Their air defence units downed 37 of the drones in various regions, including Sumy and near the capital Kyiv. In the southern region of Odesa, which lies on the Black Sea, officials said Russian drones targeted the port town of Izmail, one of several important Ukrainian export hubs. 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.

Russian drone barrage kills four in east Ukraine

Rescue efforts are in progress in the Potomac River after a midair collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. At least 30 bodies have been recovered so far, The Guardian reported, citing local media reports.
Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser highlighted the difficulties of the ongoing operation. Around 300 first responders are facing harsh conditions, including darkness, strong winds, and cold temperatures.
&ldquo;Our fire department, DC Fire and EMS, supported by fire and police departments from across the metropolitan region, are executing a rescue operation in the Potomac River,&rdquo; Bowser said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Nineteen bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site</a>
&ldquo;They are working diligently in very dark, cold conditions&mdash;cold water&mdash;to execute this rescue operation,&rdquo; she added.
She added that American Airlines officials had briefed her team and that company representatives were on their way to Washington. Airline officials are also in touch with the victims&rsquo; families at the airport.
<h2>Press briefing scheduled for 12:30 GMT</h2>
A press briefing is scheduled for 7:30 am (12:30 GMT) at Reagan Washington National Airport, where Bowser will provide further updates.
DC Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly said, &ldquo;Currently, about 300 responders are working throughout the region, including the US Coast Guard."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-didnt-helicopter-go-up-or-down-trump-says-the-crash-should-have-been-prevented-8674669">'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have&nbsp;been&nbsp;prevented'</a>
&ldquo;The water that we're operating in is about eight feet deep. There is wind. There are pieces of ice out there. So it's just dangerous and hard to work in,&rdquo; Donnelly added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser said that around 300 first responders are facing harsh conditions, including strong winds and cold temperatures in the recue operations.

Rescue efforts are in progress in the Potomac River after a midair collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. At least 30 bodies have been recovered so far, The Guardian reported, citing local media reports. Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser highlighted the difficulties of the ongoing operation. Around 300 first responders are facing harsh conditions, including darkness, strong winds, and cold temperatures. “Our fire department, DC Fire and EMS, supported by fire and police departments from across the metropolitan region, are executing a rescue operation in the Potomac River,” Bowser said. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Nineteen bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site “They are working diligently in very dark, cold conditions—cold water—to execute this rescue operation,” she added. She added that American Airlines officials had briefed her team and that company representatives were on their way to Washington. Airline officials are also in touch with the victims’ families at the airport. Press briefing scheduled for 12:30 GMT A press briefing is scheduled for 7:30 am (12:30 GMT) at Reagan Washington National Airport, where Bowser will provide further updates. DC Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly said, “Currently, about 300 responders are working throughout the region, including the US Coast Guard." Also read: 'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented' “The water that we're operating in is about eight feet deep. There is wind. There are pieces of ice out there. So it's just dangerous and hard to work in,” Donnelly added. (With inputs from agencies)

Washington DC plane crash: 300 rescuers battle cold, darkness to recover victims from Potomac river

The last conversation between the pilot of the military aircraft with the control tower showed a tragic situation moments before it crashed mid-air with the American Airlines Flight 5342.&nbsp;
The commercial plane was carrying 64 people, including four crew members, when the incident occurred on Thursday (Jan 30). The military aircraft was carrying three people.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Nineteen bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site</a>
Just 30 seconds before the accident, an air traffic controller asked the pilot if they had the commercial flight in sight.&nbsp;
&ldquo;PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight? PAT25, pass behind the CRJ," the controller asked.&nbsp;
The pilot was heard saying to the ATC, &ldquo;I need to land immediately". Seconds later, the two aircraft collided and crashed.&nbsp;
<h2>'I&rsquo;m just praying...'&nbsp;</h2>
A man, who was waiting for his wife to be rescued from the wreckage of the commercial plane in the Potomac River, told the US media that he had received a text from her minutes before the crash.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-didnt-helicopter-go-up-or-down-trump-says-the-crash-should-have-been-prevented-8674669">'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have&nbsp;been&nbsp;prevented'</a>
An anxious Hamaad Raza said, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now. That&rsquo;s all I can pray for," WUSA reported.&nbsp;
He said he felt something was wrong when his messages were not getting delivered.&nbsp;
Raza said his wife told him that the plane was going to land in the next 20 minutes. He then responded to the messages, but they remained undelivered.&nbsp;
Over 300 responders were actively engaged in the ongoing rescue operation after the crash in the Potomac River.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/washington-dc-plane-crash-us-and-russian-figure-skaters-believed-to-be-onboard-8674484">Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight</a>
<h2>'They are working diligently'</h2>
Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser said at a press conference, &ldquo;Our fire department, DC fire and EMS, supported by fire departments and police departments from across the metropolitan region, are executing a rescue operation in the Potomac River. They are working diligently in very dark, cold conditions&mdash;cold water&mdash;to execute this rescue operation."&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-plane-crashes-in-potomac-river-after-colliding-with-helicopter-mid-air-8669892">US: Plane crashes in Potomac river after colliding with helicopter mid-air</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;

World | A man, who was waiting for his wife to be rescued from the wreckage of the commercial plane in the Potomac River, said while talking to the US media that he received a text from her minutes before the crash. 

The last conversation between the pilot of the military aircraft with the control tower showed a tragic situation moments before it crashed mid-air with the American Airlines Flight 5342. The commercial plane was carrying 64 people, including four crew members, when the incident occurred on Thursday (Jan 30). The military aircraft was carrying three people. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Nineteen bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site Just 30 seconds before the accident, an air traffic controller asked the pilot if they had the commercial flight in sight. “PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight? PAT25, pass behind the CRJ," the controller asked. The pilot was heard saying to the ATC, “I need to land immediately". Seconds later, the two aircraft collided and crashed. 'I’m just praying...' A man, who was waiting for his wife to be rescued from the wreckage of the commercial plane in the Potomac River, told the US media that he had received a text from her minutes before the crash. Also read: 'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented' An anxious Hamaad Raza said, “I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now. That’s all I can pray for," WUSA reported. He said he felt something was wrong when his messages were not getting delivered. Raza said his wife told him that the plane was going to land in the next 20 minutes. He then responded to the messages, but they remained undelivered. Over 300 responders were actively engaged in the ongoing rescue operation after the crash in the Potomac River. Also read:Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight 'They are working diligently' Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser said at a press conference, “Our fire department, DC fire and EMS, supported by fire departments and police departments from across the metropolitan region, are executing a rescue operation in the Potomac River. They are working diligently in very dark, cold conditions—cold water—to execute this rescue operation." WATCH: US: Plane crashes in Potomac river after colliding with helicopter mid-air (With inputs from agencies)

'She texted me...': Heartbreaking last chats moments before Washington plane crash

The Vice President of European Investment Bank (EIB), Nicola Beer, has said that the bank is looking for a &lsquo;win-win&rsquo; partnership with India. Speaking to our correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, in Luxembourg, she said, &ldquo;India is really a leader in the region...and we really hope that with the upcoming India EU summit, we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the citizens in India.&rdquo;
EIB, one of the largest multilateral financial institutions globally, is notably active in financing projects that address climate change, aiming to align its investment with the Paris Agreement. The bank&rsquo;s vice president pointed out, &ldquo;Especially in the Global South, our investments are merely 90% for climate action or climate adaptation.&rdquo;
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
The EIB has been a major financier of renewable energy projects in India, including solar, wind, and more recently, green hydrogen. The bank has made significant investments in urban rail mobility projects across major cities in India, including Lucknow, Bengaluru, Pune, Bhopal, Kanpur, and Agra. Here is the transcript of the full interview.
Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the European Investment Bank and its role in projects in India, if you can talk about it, if you can shed some light on it?
Nicola Beer: First, thank you that you are interested in the European Investment Bank, and the European Investment Bank is engaged in India since 1993. We did invest about 5.5 billion euros so far, with a huge emphasis on decarbonisation. So in energy, renewable energy, on transport, and also on all that is helping people, so water projects, especially when it comes up to the quality of drinking water. The largest engagement of the European Investment Bank in India is about decarbonisation of public transport, especially when it comes to railways, suburbs, and urban ones. Here we invested 3.6 billion euros, and I think this is maybe the best example to show how we really try to have with our partners on the ground here in India an impact for citizens, because, of course, if you have this public transport, then first, you are travelling faster because you do not have the traffic jams. You have safe access for all kinds of citizens, especially but for vulnerable groups like women or handicapped, they can travel safer and they have access, quicker access, also to working places, education places all over a city or a region. So for us, this is very important that this comes together and is then, in this kind, answering the need of fast-growing cities and regions like you have it in India.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/metas-former-coo-sheryl-sandberg-sanctioned-by-delaware-judge-over-alleged-email-deletions-8655488" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meta&rsquo;s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions</a>
Sidhant Sibal: Moving to the larger Global South. Now, the role of the European Investment Bank in the Global South, if you can shed some light on it, the projects you have been involved in the Global South? Nicola Beer: Coming to the Global South, it is important for us that we deliver on projects that lead to better life conditions for the citizens and that we do it together with partners on the ground. But we come merely with the European family, which means that we, in the context of the team Europe approach. We come as a European anchor investor, but we often bring them other financial institutions, for example, from the member states, or we are cooperating, for example, with the Asian Development Bank to bring better living conditions, drinking water, and health. So, investing huge amounts, especially in vaccine development, health condition and infrastructure, in better mobility on the ground, and in renewable energy, so that you have really affordable and safe energy around all the places.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lee-zeldin-confirmed-as-trumps-pick-for-environmental-protection-agency-8669732" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency</a>
Sidhant Sibal: Climate change, that is another big issue. How is the European Investment Bank helping the world in terms of dealing with it? Nicola Beer: Thank you very much for the question, because we as the climate bank of European Union are of course, heavily engaged in climate action. We have a goal every year to at least have investments of 50% of what all the business we are doing related to climate action. And we always overcoming it, and especially in the Global South, our investments are 90% for climate action or climate adaptation. And so for us, it&rsquo;s important that what we do and what we build with our projects is resilient, so, for example, that we reduce the risk of drought for people, so that this is helping in agriculture, but also it&rsquo;s a prevention, for example, for fire and other climate related crisis all over different places, that we help to have more circularity projects, so that you are having, for example, good quality drinking water, but also then having a management system for the water, which is then also related to wastewater and sewage, so also to recycle the water, for example, for industry purposes, and to prevent diseases, because if you do not have a managed and treatment system, then there will come up diseases with the wastewater, which is then a health issue for a lot of people, especially in growing urban situations. So this is then also related to climate, but in the same time, having a positive impact on the life and better life for citizens.
Sidhant Sibal: Now we know that there is a cutting off of aid and support to many developing countries with the change of guard in Washington. Now do you think that the European Investment Bank has to take a much bigger lead in terms of providing support to the Global South? Nicola Beer: You&rsquo;re totally right. A lot of challenges we have are not European or Indian or Global South challenges. These are challenges for the whole globe. So we have to act in partnership. And European Investment Bank is stepping up this investment. We got a top-up from our stakeholders, shareholders. So the 27 member states, we can do more business. We can especially also do more business outside the European Union. So we will not only continue to be invested, but we will also increase our investments. And I think this is heavily important that we look how we can bring the strengths of different regions in a partnership together, how we can be interrelated. Because if you are building up strong relationships and strong friendships, then this is a better world than very complicated, isolating structures around the globe.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-salwan-momika-the-man-shot-dead-in-sweden-for-burning-quran-8674357" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Also read:&nbsp;Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran?</a>
Sidhant Sibal: You talked about partnership. How do you see India as a partner? Nicola Beer: India is a very important partner, especially for the European Union. You are a very well skilled, very rapidly increasing developing country with citizens who are very creative. The demand, especially for such skilled persons all over the globe, is very high. But I think we should look about partnerships that create win-win situations for India and also for Europe. So we always, with our projects, want to have these advantages on both sides, to invest in a better way of life for citizens all over the globe, here in India, but also for a better future for all generations to come. And so we look not only at India but also the whole region. And I think India is really a leader in the region, but a leader should be a leader on fair conditions, especially when it comes to interconnectivity of energy projects, mobility projects, transport questions, and international trade. And we really hope with the upcoming India EU summit that we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the sake of the citizens in India.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | India News: The EIB has been a major financier of renewable energy projects in India, including solar, wind, and more recently, green hydrogen. The bank has made significant investments in urban rail mobility projects across major cities in India.

The Vice President of European Investment Bank (EIB), Nicola Beer, has said that the bank is looking for a ‘win-win’ partnership with India. Speaking to our correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, in Luxembourg, she said, “India is really a leader in the region...and we really hope that with the upcoming India EU summit, we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the citizens in India.” EIB, one of the largest multilateral financial institutions globally, is notably active in financing projects that address climate change, aiming to align its investment with the Paris Agreement. The bank’s vice president pointed out, “Especially in the Global South, our investments are merely 90% for climate action or climate adaptation.” Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison The EIB has been a major financier of renewable energy projects in India, including solar, wind, and more recently, green hydrogen. The bank has made significant investments in urban rail mobility projects across major cities in India, including Lucknow, Bengaluru, Pune, Bhopal, Kanpur, and Agra. Here is the transcript of the full interview. Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the European Investment Bank and its role in projects in India, if you can talk about it, if you can shed some light on it? Nicola Beer: First, thank you that you are interested in the European Investment Bank, and the European Investment Bank is engaged in India since 1993. We did invest about 5.5 billion euros so far, with a huge emphasis on decarbonisation. So in energy, renewable energy, on transport, and also on all that is helping people, so water projects, especially when it comes up to the quality of drinking water. The largest engagement of the European Investment Bank in India is about decarbonisation of public transport, especially when it comes to railways, suburbs, and urban ones. Here we invested 3.6 billion euros, and I think this is maybe the best example to show how we really try to have with our partners on the ground here in India an impact for citizens, because, of course, if you have this public transport, then first, you are travelling faster because you do not have the traffic jams. You have safe access for all kinds of citizens, especially but for vulnerable groups like women or handicapped, they can travel safer and they have access, quicker access, also to working places, education places all over a city or a region. So for us, this is very important that this comes together and is then, in this kind, answering the need of fast-growing cities and regions like you have it in India. Also read | Meta’s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions Sidhant Sibal: Moving to the larger Global South. Now, the role of the European Investment Bank in the Global South, if you can shed some light on it, the projects you have been involved in the Global South? Nicola Beer: Coming to the Global South, it is important for us that we deliver on projects that lead to better life conditions for the citizens and that we do it together with partners on the ground. But we come merely with the European family, which means that we, in the context of the team Europe approach. We come as a European anchor investor, but we often bring them other financial institutions, for example, from the member states, or we are cooperating, for example, with the Asian Development Bank to bring better living conditions, drinking water, and health. So, investing huge amounts, especially in vaccine development, health condition and infrastructure, in better mobility on the ground, and in renewable energy, so that you have really affordable and safe energy around all the places. Also read | Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency Sidhant Sibal: Climate change, that is another big issue. How is the European Investment Bank helping the world in terms of dealing with it? Nicola Beer: Thank you very much for the question, because we as the climate bank of European Union are of course, heavily engaged in climate action. We have a goal every year to at least have investments of 50% of what all the business we are doing related to climate action. And we always overcoming it, and especially in the Global South, our investments are 90% for climate action or climate adaptation. And so for us, it’s important that what we do and what we build with our projects is resilient, so, for example, that we reduce the risk of drought for people, so that this is helping in agriculture, but also it’s a prevention, for example, for fire and other climate related crisis all over different places, that we help to have more circularity projects, so that you are having, for example, good quality drinking water, but also then having a management system for the water, which is then also related to wastewater and sewage, so also to recycle the water, for example, for industry purposes, and to prevent diseases, because if you do not have a managed and treatment system, then there will come up diseases with the wastewater, which is then a health issue for a lot of people, especially in growing urban situations. So this is then also related to climate, but in the same time, having a positive impact on the life and better life for citizens. Sidhant Sibal: Now we know that there is a cutting off of aid and support to many developing countries with the change of guard in Washington. Now do you think that the European Investment Bank has to take a much bigger lead in terms of providing support to the Global South? Nicola Beer: You’re totally right. A lot of challenges we have are not European or Indian or Global South challenges. These are challenges for the whole globe. So we have to act in partnership. And European Investment Bank is stepping up this investment. We got a top-up from our stakeholders, shareholders. So the 27 member states, we can do more business. We can especially also do more business outside the European Union. So we will not only continue to be invested, but we will also increase our investments. And I think this is heavily important that we look how we can bring the strengths of different regions in a partnership together, how we can be interrelated. Because if you are building up strong relationships and strong friendships, then this is a better world than very complicated, isolating structures around the globe. Also read: Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran? Sidhant Sibal: You talked about partnership. How do you see India as a partner? Nicola Beer: India is a very important partner, especially for the European Union. You are a very well skilled, very rapidly increasing developing country with citizens who are very creative. The demand, especially for such skilled persons all over the globe, is very high. But I think we should look about partnerships that create win-win situations for India and also for Europe. So we always, with our projects, want to have these advantages on both sides, to invest in a better way of life for citizens all over the globe, here in India, but also for a better future for all generations to come. And so we look not only at India but also the whole region. And I think India is really a leader in the region, but a leader should be a leader on fair conditions, especially when it comes to interconnectivity of energy projects, mobility projects, transport questions, and international trade. And we really hope with the upcoming India EU summit that we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the sake of the citizens in India.

‘European Investment Bank looking for a win-win partnership with India’

Hours after the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/washington-plane-crash" rel="dofollow">helicopter and aeroplane collision and crash</a> in Washington, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) questioned the actions of both the helicopter crew and air traffic controllers, and said, "Why didn't the helicopter go up or down", stressing that it was a "CLEAR NIGHT".
The flight, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with the US Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River. The bodies of 19 people have been recovered.
Trump took to his Truth Social account and questioned why the helicopter did not avoid the plane.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/washington-dc-plane-crash-us-and-russian-figure-skaters-believed-to-be-onboard-8674484" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight</a>
"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn&rsquo;t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn&rsquo;t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?," Trump posted.&nbsp;
The US president further said that the incident should have been avoided.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-washington-dc-plane-crash-live-updates-images-videos-news-8673252" rel="dofollow">Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Multiple bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site</a>
<h2>'Not good'</h2>
"This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!," Trump added.&nbsp;
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Trump also conveyed his condolences and praised first responders on the aviation incident, saying, "Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders."
"I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident that just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls," Trump said.&nbsp;
Vice President JD Vance also condoled the lives lost in the crash, saying, "Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apparent-air-crash-in-potomac-river-washington-police-8669725" rel="dofollow">VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington</a>
He added that the authorities are monitoring the situation, but for now, let&rsquo;s hope for the best."
The Federal Aviation Administration announced that Reagan Airport will reopen at 11 am on Thursday.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The plane, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with the US Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River. The bodies of 19 people have been recovered so far.

Hours after the deadly helicopter and aeroplane collision and crash in Washington, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) questioned the actions of both the helicopter crew and air traffic controllers, and said, "Why didn't the helicopter go up or down", stressing that it was a "CLEAR NIGHT". The flight, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with the US Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River. The bodies of 19 people have been recovered. Trump took to his Truth Social account and questioned why the helicopter did not avoid the plane. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash: US and Russian figure skaters believed to be aboard flight "The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?," Trump posted. The US president further said that the incident should have been avoided. Also read: Washington DC Plane Crash LIVE: Multiple bodies recovered from Washington plane crash site 'Not good' "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!," Trump added. Trump also conveyed his condolences and praised first responders on the aviation incident, saying, "Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders." "I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident that just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls," Trump said. Vice President JD Vance also condoled the lives lost in the crash, saying, "Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening." Also read: VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington He added that the authorities are monitoring the situation, but for now, let’s hope for the best." The Federal Aviation Administration announced that Reagan Airport will reopen at 11 am on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

'Why didn't helicopter go up or down': Trump says the crash 'should have been prevented'

Salwan Momika, a 39-year-old man identified as a Christian Iraqi refugee, on Thursday (Jan 30) was shot dead in Sweden. The man, who would repeatedly burn the Quran, was being tried for allegedly inciting ethnic hatred by burning the Muslim holy book at a slew of protests in 2023.
A Stockholm court was due to rule on Thursday, but postponed the ruling until February 3, saying "because Salwan Momika has died, more time is needed".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-who-burnt-quran-in-2023-sparking-huge-protests-shot-dead-in-sweden-8674215">Man who burnt Quran in 2023 sparking huge protests shot dead in Sweden</a>
<h2>Here's all you need to know about the Quran burning</h2>
On July 20, 2023, Momika stomped on the Muslim holy book Quran and set several pages alight outside a Stockholm mosque.
According to the Iraqi security official, the man was an Iraqi Christian and a former member of a Christian unit within the Popular Mobilisation Forces, a collection of predominantly Shiite militias incorporated into Iraq's armed forces in 2016.
The Quran burning coincided with the start of the holy Eid al-Adha holiday and also the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. It triggered widespread anger globally, especially in Muslim-dominated nations like Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
Reports at the time suggested that, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission to protest by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation into "agitation against an ethnic group".
<h2>Who killed Salwan Momika?</h2>
The local police, in a statement, said they had been alerted to a shooting in the city of Sodertalje, where Momika lived.
As per reports, the shooting incident happened indoors and when the police arrived at the scene they found a man, later identified as Momika, the man who burnt Quran in 2023, "hit by shots".
He was taken to the hospital. However, a later update said that the man had died, and a murder investigation had been opened.
Media reports suggest that the murder may have been broadcast live on social media.
(With inputs from agencies)

World and Trending News: Learn about Salwan Momika, an Iraqi Christian whose Quran-burning acts in Sweden led to global protests and his eventually being shot dead in Sweden.

Salwan Momika, a 39-year-old man identified as a Christian Iraqi refugee, on Thursday (Jan 30) was shot dead in Sweden. The man, who would repeatedly burn the Quran, was being tried for allegedly inciting ethnic hatred by burning the Muslim holy book at a slew of protests in 2023. A Stockholm court was due to rule on Thursday, but postponed the ruling until February 3, saying "because Salwan Momika has died, more time is needed". Also read | Man who burnt Quran in 2023 sparking huge protests shot dead in Sweden Here's all you need to know about the Quran burning On July 20, 2023, Momika stomped on the Muslim holy book Quran and set several pages alight outside a Stockholm mosque. According to the Iraqi security official, the man was an Iraqi Christian and a former member of a Christian unit within the Popular Mobilisation Forces, a collection of predominantly Shiite militias incorporated into Iraq's armed forces in 2016. The Quran burning coincided with the start of the holy Eid al-Adha holiday and also the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. It triggered widespread anger globally, especially in Muslim-dominated nations like Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. Reports at the time suggested that, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission to protest by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation into "agitation against an ethnic group". Who killed Salwan Momika? The local police, in a statement, said they had been alerted to a shooting in the city of Sodertalje, where Momika lived. As per reports, the shooting incident happened indoors and when the police arrived at the scene they found a man, later identified as Momika, the man who burnt Quran in 2023, "hit by shots". He was taken to the hospital. However, a later update said that the man had died, and a murder investigation had been opened. Media reports suggest that the murder may have been broadcast live on social media. (With inputs from agencies)

Killing of Salwan Momika, man who burnt Quran, broadcast live on social media, suggest reports

A man in Sweden has been convicted of drunk-driving a drone, a case thought to be the first of its kind.
Allegedly, the 55-year-old was flying the device at a classic car event in R&auml;ttvik, a town in central Sweden, in a temporary no-fly zone, according to The Guardian report.
The police spotted the drone when they were flying their own one to monitor the event. They located the man controlling the drone, who had 0.69 parts alcohol for every 1,000 parts blood in his bloodstream. He admitted to flying the device.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-villagers-save-drunk-man-lying-on-electric-wires-in-india-8584995">Watch: Villagers save drunk man lying on electric wires in India's Andhra Pradesh</a>
According to Swedish law, an alcohol level above 0.2 parts in 1,000 parts blood is a punishable offence and above 1.0 is a serious offence. Sweden has stricter drink-driving laws in comparison to other European countries. The alcohol limit in the UK is 0.8, while in Spain, France and Belgium, it is 0.5. On the other hand, Romania and Hungary have a zero-tolerance policy while driving.
The man later denied flying the drone under the influence of alcohol and claimed it was his friend who was flying it. However, his friend was not present when the police arrived.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enemy-or-not-the-enemy-trump-takes-u-turn-on-nj-drones-month-after-slamming-biden-8662938">Enemy or &lsquo;not the enemy&rsquo;? Trump takes U-turn on NJ drones month after slamming Biden</a>
He was found guilty and fined 32,000 SEK ($2,912), which was to be paid in 80 days in daily fines of 400 SEK ($36.40).
<h2>First of its kind</h2>
The case is thought to be the first in Sweden where a person was prosecuted and convicted of drunk-driving a drone.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-who-burnt-quran-in-2023-sparking-huge-protests-shot-dead-in-sweden-8674215">Man who burnt Quran in 2023 sparking huge protests shot dead in Sweden</a>
&ldquo;I have not seen a case like this before,&rdquo; The Guardian quoted prosecutor Jenny Holden Nystr&ouml;m told the broadcaster SVT. &ldquo;I am satisfied with the verdict.&rdquo;
The court decision applied the same punishment as it would for drink-driving, said Karin Hellmont, the district court president.
Watch | Washington plane crash: US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided with jet, officials say
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/3001_Manav_TRUMP_12PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/3001_Manav_TRUMP_12PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=201&amp;tags=Washington, World News, USA News, WION" title="Washington plane crash: US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided with jet, officials say" id="PL_iframe_block-m6j3orgr-rj6qp95n-9dnuy0kz"></iframe>
&ldquo;It is an aircraft. Even though it is flown by itself, it is controlled by someone down on the ground and can fall from a high height and injure someone,&rdquo; she said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | Allegedly, the 55-year-old was flying the device at a classic car event in Rättvik, a town in central Sweden, in a temporary no-fly zone, according to The Guardian report.

A man in Sweden has been convicted of drunk-driving a drone, a case thought to be the first of its kind. Allegedly, the 55-year-old was flying the device at a classic car event in Rättvik, a town in central Sweden, in a temporary no-fly zone, according to The Guardian report. The police spotted the drone when they were flying their own one to monitor the event. They located the man controlling the drone, who had 0.69 parts alcohol for every 1,000 parts blood in his bloodstream. He admitted to flying the device. Also read | Watch: Villagers save drunk man lying on electric wires in India's Andhra Pradesh According to Swedish law, an alcohol level above 0.2 parts in 1,000 parts blood is a punishable offence and above 1.0 is a serious offence. Sweden has stricter drink-driving laws in comparison to other European countries. The alcohol limit in the UK is 0.8, while in Spain, France and Belgium, it is 0.5. On the other hand, Romania and Hungary have a zero-tolerance policy while driving. The man later denied flying the drone under the influence of alcohol and claimed it was his friend who was flying it. However, his friend was not present when the police arrived. Also read | Enemy or ‘not the enemy’? Trump takes U-turn on NJ drones month after slamming Biden He was found guilty and fined 32,000 SEK ($2,912), which was to be paid in 80 days in daily fines of 400 SEK ($36.40). First of its kind The case is thought to be the first in Sweden where a person was prosecuted and convicted of drunk-driving a drone. Also read | Man who burnt Quran in 2023 sparking huge protests shot dead in Sweden “I have not seen a case like this before,” The Guardian quoted prosecutor Jenny Holden Nyström told the broadcaster SVT. “I am satisfied with the verdict.” The court decision applied the same punishment as it would for drink-driving, said Karin Hellmont, the district court president. Watch | Washington plane crash: US Army Black Hawk helicopter collided with jet, officials say “It is an aircraft. Even though it is flown by itself, it is controlled by someone down on the ground and can fall from a high height and injure someone,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Drunk-driving a drone? Man in Sweden fined around $3,000 for flying drone under influence of alcohol

The man who repeatedly burnt the holy book Quran, in the year 2023 in Sweden, igniting massive outrage in Muslim countries, has been shot dead, said police on Thursday (Jan 30).
A Stockholm court was scheduled to deliver its verdict on Thursday concerning Salwan Momika, an Iraqi Christian, who was accused of inciting ethnic hatred for burning the Quran at multiple protests.
The court postponed the ruling until February 3 stating that "because Salwan Momika has died, more time is needed."
Police released a statement saying that earlier, they were alerted about a shooting incident that occurred in the city of Sodertalje, where Momika lived.
The incident took place indoors and when the police arrived at the scene, they found a man who had been "hit by shots and the man was taken to hospital", added the statement.
In a subsequent update, authorities confirmed that the individual had succumbed to his injuries, and a murder inquiry had been initiated.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-salwan-momika-the-man-shot-dead-in-sweden-for-burning-quran-8674357">Also read: Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran?</a>
<h2>Five suspects arrested over Momika's killing&nbsp;</h2>
Swedish police on Thursday said that the officials arrested five suspects in the killing of Momika.
"Police arrested five people overnight. Prosecutors have detained them," a police statement said.
<h2>Shooting may have been broadcast live on social media</h2>
Multiple news sources identified the deceased as Salwan Momika and reported that the shooting may have been streamed live on social media platforms.
In August 2024, Momika, along with one of his co-protesters Salwan Najem, was charged with "agitation against an ethnic group" at four events in the summer of 2023.
As per the charge sheet, both Momika and Najem desecrated the Quran by burning it and making derogatory remarks about Islam. One of the instances was outside a &nbsp;Stockholm mosque.
The duo's protest led to strained relations between Sweden and several Middle Eastern countries.
Reports at the time suggested that, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission to protest by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation into "agitation against an ethnic group".
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Multiple news sources identified the deceased as Salwan Momika and reported that the shooting may have been streamed live on social media platforms.

The man who repeatedly burnt the holy book Quran, in the year 2023 in Sweden, igniting massive outrage in Muslim countries, has been shot dead, said police on Thursday (Jan 30). A Stockholm court was scheduled to deliver its verdict on Thursday concerning Salwan Momika, an Iraqi Christian, who was accused of inciting ethnic hatred for burning the Quran at multiple protests. The court postponed the ruling until February 3 stating that "because Salwan Momika has died, more time is needed." Police released a statement saying that earlier, they were alerted about a shooting incident that occurred in the city of Sodertalje, where Momika lived. The incident took place indoors and when the police arrived at the scene, they found a man who had been "hit by shots and the man was taken to hospital", added the statement. In a subsequent update, authorities confirmed that the individual had succumbed to his injuries, and a murder inquiry had been initiated. Also read: Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran? Five suspects arrested over Momika's killing Swedish police on Thursday said that the officials arrested five suspects in the killing of Momika. "Police arrested five people overnight. Prosecutors have detained them," a police statement said. Shooting may have been broadcast live on social media Multiple news sources identified the deceased as Salwan Momika and reported that the shooting may have been streamed live on social media platforms. In August 2024, Momika, along with one of his co-protesters Salwan Najem, was charged with "agitation against an ethnic group" at four events in the summer of 2023. As per the charge sheet, both Momika and Najem desecrated the Quran by burning it and making derogatory remarks about Islam. One of the instances was outside a Stockholm mosque. The duo's protest led to strained relations between Sweden and several Middle Eastern countries. Reports at the time suggested that, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission to protest by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation into "agitation against an ethnic group". (With inputs from agencies)

Man who burnt Quran in 2023 sparking huge protests shot dead in Sweden

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Thursday (Jan 30), released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger in the third hostage-prisoner swap.
Berger, wearing military-style clothing, was paraded on a stage by Hamas militants before being transferred to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Three Israelis and five Thai hostages are set to be released on Thursday under the Gaza ceasefire agreement which is aimed at ending the war in the Palestinian besieged enclave.
Twenty-year-old Berger was handed a goodie bag and a certificate to mark the end of her captivity.
A somber Berger was seen on stage, surrounded by masked Hamas members wearing distinctive green headbands, as she was prompted to wave at the crowd before being handed over.
Israel's military said Berger was now back in Israel and would undergo "an initial medical assessment".
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement that five Thais held in Gaza would also be released by the Palestinian militant group.
Before the release, Islamic Jihad aired a footage showing Moses and Yehud hugging each other and smiling.
The Moses family, on Wednesday, said that it had "received with great excitement the wonderful news of our beloved Gadi's return".
A fourth hostage-prisoner swap is set to take place during the weekend, however, Hamas on Wednesday accused Israel of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as "fake news".
<h2>Seven Israeli women, 290 Palestinian prisoners freed since Gaza ceasefire</h2>
According to the initial terms of the agreement, 33 hostages held by militants in Gaza are to be released in exchange for more than 1,900 Palestinians detained by Israel. So far, seven Israeli women and 290 Palestinian prisoners have been freed since the truce started.
Meanwhile, displaced Palestinians began making their way back to northern Gaza on Monday (Jan 27) as confirmed by Palestine&rsquo;s interior ministry. Images shared on social media showed thousands of people traversing sandy roads amidst the devastation caused by over a year of Israeli strikes.
&ldquo;The passage of displaced Palestinians has begun along the Al-Rashid Road via the western part of the Netzarim checkpoint towards Gaza City and the northern part&rdquo; of the Gaza Strip, an official told news agency AFP.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement that five Thais held in Gaza would also be released by the Palestinian militant group.

Palestinian militant group Hamas, on Thursday (Jan 30), released Israeli woman soldier Agam Berger in the third hostage-prisoner swap. Berger, wearing military-style clothing, was paraded on a stage by Hamas militants before being transferred to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Three Israelis and five Thai hostages are set to be released on Thursday under the Gaza ceasefire agreement which is aimed at ending the war in the Palestinian besieged enclave. Twenty-year-old Berger was handed a goodie bag and a certificate to mark the end of her captivity. A somber Berger was seen on stage, surrounded by masked Hamas members wearing distinctive green headbands, as she was prompted to wave at the crowd before being handed over. Israel's military said Berger was now back in Israel and would undergo "an initial medical assessment". Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement that five Thais held in Gaza would also be released by the Palestinian militant group. Before the release, Islamic Jihad aired a footage showing Moses and Yehud hugging each other and smiling. The Moses family, on Wednesday, said that it had "received with great excitement the wonderful news of our beloved Gadi's return". A fourth hostage-prisoner swap is set to take place during the weekend, however, Hamas on Wednesday accused Israel of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as "fake news". Seven Israeli women, 290 Palestinian prisoners freed since Gaza ceasefire According to the initial terms of the agreement, 33 hostages held by militants in Gaza are to be released in exchange for more than 1,900 Palestinians detained by Israel. So far, seven Israeli women and 290 Palestinian prisoners have been freed since the truce started. Meanwhile, displaced Palestinians began making their way back to northern Gaza on Monday (Jan 27) as confirmed by Palestine’s interior ministry. Images shared on social media showed thousands of people traversing sandy roads amidst the devastation caused by over a year of Israeli strikes. “The passage of displaced Palestinians has begun along the Al-Rashid Road via the western part of the Netzarim checkpoint towards Gaza City and the northern part” of the Gaza Strip, an official told news agency AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas hands Israeli soldier Agam Berger over to Red Cross in Gaza's Jabalia

US aid experts, on Wednesday (Jan 29), rebuffed Donald Trump's claims that the United States spent $50 million on condoms for the Gaza Strip.
The claim has been used by the president to illustrate wasteful spending by the previous administration.
Trump stated that the funds were intended to purchase condoms for the militant group Hamas but aid experts have rejected this claim, saying it's unfounded.
"We identified and stopped $50 million being sent to Gaza to buy condoms for Hamas," Trump told reporters, referring to the militant group that has ruled the Palestinian territory for nearly two decades.
"And do you know what's happened to them? They've used them as a method of making bombs."
Trump's claim met with widespread criticism and dismissal from relief agencies and experts, who pointed out that he provided no evidence to support his assertion.&nbsp;
International Medical Corps, a humanitarian aid organisation, revealed that it received approximately $68 million from USAID since October 7, 2023, to support its operations in Gaza.&nbsp;
"No US government funding was used to procure or distribute condoms," the organisation said in a statement.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246">Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
<h2>Elon Musk reacts</h2>
Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas.
Musk took to his platform X and called the move the &ldquo;tip of the iceberg&rdquo;.
&ldquo;My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6izw1g7-oot6llw2-uzhxlno2">
Tip of iceberg <a href="https://t.co/ixjtgut26G">https://t.co/ixjtgut26G</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884326482161590294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6izxq24-fxbv5b5o-eu769gqh">
Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦&zwj;♂️
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329854528807104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
One of the X users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens.
To this, Musk replied, saying, &ldquo;Explains why all the condom orders were magnum."
<h2>US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money'</h2>
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a &ldquo;preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza".
&ldquo;That's what this pause is focused on&mdash;being good stewards of tax dollars,&rdquo; she added.
The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20.
"No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Trump's claim met with widespread criticism and dismissal from relief agencies and experts, who pointed out that he provided no evidence to support his assertion. 

US aid experts, on Wednesday (Jan 29), rebuffed Donald Trump's claims that the United States spent $50 million on condoms for the Gaza Strip. The claim has been used by the president to illustrate wasteful spending by the previous administration. Trump stated that the funds were intended to purchase condoms for the militant group Hamas but aid experts have rejected this claim, saying it's unfounded. "We identified and stopped $50 million being sent to Gaza to buy condoms for Hamas," Trump told reporters, referring to the militant group that has ruled the Palestinian territory for nearly two decades. "And do you know what's happened to them? They've used them as a method of making bombs." Trump's claim met with widespread criticism and dismissal from relief agencies and experts, who pointed out that he provided no evidence to support his assertion. International Medical Corps, a humanitarian aid organisation, revealed that it received approximately $68 million from USAID since October 7, 2023, to support its operations in Gaza. "No US government funding was used to procure or distribute condoms," the organisation said in a statement. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Elon Musk reacts Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas. Musk took to his platform X and called the move the “tip of the iceberg”. “My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.” Tip of iceberg https://t.co/ixjtgut26G — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 "Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post. Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦‍♂️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 One of the X users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens. To this, Musk replied, saying, “Explains why all the condom orders were magnum." US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza". “That's what this pause is focused on—being good stewards of tax dollars,” she added. The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20. "No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Aid experts reject Donald Trump's $50 million 'Gaza condom' spending claim

Microsoft-backed OpenAI's chief Sam Altman is planning to visit India next week, three sources with direct knowledge of the matter said, in what could be his first visit in two years at a time when the company faces legal challenges in the country.
The sources said Altman has scheduled his trip to New Delhi for Feb. 5. One of the sources said a meeting with government officials was also on the cards.
But the schedule is not finalised and his plans could still change, the people said.
OpenAI, India's IT ministry and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office did not respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;OpenAI has said India is its second-largest market by number of users, after the United States.
Altman visited India in 2023 when he met Modi in New Delhi and discussed the potential of AI in boosting India's tech ecosystem.
Since then, OpenAI has faced several legal challenges in India. A lawsuit against it claiming breaches of copyright began last year after local news agency ANI challenged it in a New Delhi court.
Book publishers and almost a dozen digital media outlets, including those owned by billionaires Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, have also since joined the case.
OpenAI has said it only uses publicly available data in a manner protected by fair use principles and has said Indian courts have no jurisdiction to hear the matter.
Separately, a global tech market rout was triggered this week after the emergence of Chinese AI rival DeepSeek. DeepSeek's AI Assistant has overtaken ChatGPT to become the top-rated free app on Apple's App Store in the United States.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

World | OpenAI's Sam Altman plans to visit India on Feb 5 to meet officials amid ongoing legal challenges. This marks his first visit in two years to the country.

Microsoft-backed OpenAI's chief Sam Altman is planning to visit India next week, three sources with direct knowledge of the matter said, in what could be his first visit in two years at a time when the company faces legal challenges in the country. The sources said Altman has scheduled his trip to New Delhi for Feb. 5. One of the sources said a meeting with government officials was also on the cards. But the schedule is not finalised and his plans could still change, the people said. OpenAI, India's IT ministry and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office did not respond to requests for comment. OpenAI has said India is its second-largest market by number of users, after the United States. Altman visited India in 2023 when he met Modi in New Delhi and discussed the potential of AI in boosting India's tech ecosystem. Since then, OpenAI has faced several legal challenges in India. A lawsuit against it claiming breaches of copyright began last year after local news agency ANI challenged it in a New Delhi court. Book publishers and almost a dozen digital media outlets, including those owned by billionaires Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, have also since joined the case. OpenAI has said it only uses publicly available data in a manner protected by fair use principles and has said Indian courts have no jurisdiction to hear the matter. Separately, a global tech market rout was triggered this week after the emergence of Chinese AI rival DeepSeek. DeepSeek's AI Assistant has overtaken ChatGPT to become the top-rated free app on Apple's App Store in the United States. 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.

OpenAI Chief Sam Altman to visit India on Feb 5, meet officials amid legal challenges: Reports

Transgender rights advocacy groups filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order that targeted transgender service members, in what would be the first legal challenge to a cornerstone of his conservative agenda at the Pentagon.
Trump signed an executive order on Monday that took aim at transgender troops in a personal way -- at one point saying that a man identifying as a woman was "not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member."
The lawsuit, filed jointly by GLAD Law and the National Center For Lesbian Rights (NCLR) in a district court in Washington D.C., challenges the constitutionality of the executive order and said it violated the equal protection component of the Fifth Amendment.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-transgender-people-us-military-executive-orders-8661366">Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?</a>
The plaintiffs include six transgender service members and two individuals looking to join the military.
Reuters was first to report plans to file the lawsuit.
The executive orders signed by Trump said that expressing a "gender identity" different from an individual's sex at birth did not meet military standards.
While the order banned the use of "invented" pronouns in the military, it did not answer basic questions including whether transgender soldiers currently serving in the military would be allowed to stay and, if not, how they would be removed.
Trump's order has been heavily criticized by rights groups and some Democratic lawmakers.
"President Trump's Executive Order is an insult to the bravery and service of transgender servicemembers," Senator Andy Kim said.
"How can we have a military that protects all Americans if it doesn't recognize and respect all Americans?" he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-bob-menendez-sentenced-to-11-years-for-corruption-echoing-donald-trump-ex-senator-claims-justice-system-is-corrupted-8673073">Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years for corruption; Echoing Trump, ex-senator claims justice system is 'corrupted'</a>
During his first term, Trump announced that he would ban transgender troops from serving in the military. He did not fully follow through with that ban - his administration froze their recruitment while allowing serving personnel to remain.
President Joe Biden overturned the decision when he took office in 2021.
The military has about 1.3 million active-duty personnel, Department of Defense data show. While transgender rights advocates say there are as many as 15,000 transgender service members, officials say the number is in the low thousands.
When Trump announced his first ban in 2017, he said the military needed to focus on "decisive and overwhelming victory" without being burdened by the "tremendous medical costs and disruption" of having transgender personnel.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | The executive orders signed by Trump said that expressing a "gender identity" different from an individual's sex at birth did not meet military standards.

Transgender rights advocacy groups filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order that targeted transgender service members, in what would be the first legal challenge to a cornerstone of his conservative agenda at the Pentagon. Trump signed an executive order on Monday that took aim at transgender troops in a personal way -- at one point saying that a man identifying as a woman was "not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member." The lawsuit, filed jointly by GLAD Law and the National Center For Lesbian Rights (NCLR) in a district court in Washington D.C., challenges the constitutionality of the executive order and said it violated the equal protection component of the Fifth Amendment. Also read | Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines? The plaintiffs include six transgender service members and two individuals looking to join the military. Reuters was first to report plans to file the lawsuit. The executive orders signed by Trump said that expressing a "gender identity" different from an individual's sex at birth did not meet military standards. While the order banned the use of "invented" pronouns in the military, it did not answer basic questions including whether transgender soldiers currently serving in the military would be allowed to stay and, if not, how they would be removed. Trump's order has been heavily criticized by rights groups and some Democratic lawmakers. "President Trump's Executive Order is an insult to the bravery and service of transgender servicemembers," Senator Andy Kim said. "How can we have a military that protects all Americans if it doesn't recognize and respect all Americans?" he added. Also read | Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years for corruption; Echoing Trump, ex-senator claims justice system is 'corrupted' During his first term, Trump announced that he would ban transgender troops from serving in the military. He did not fully follow through with that ban - his administration froze their recruitment while allowing serving personnel to remain. President Joe Biden overturned the decision when he took office in 2021. The military has about 1.3 million active-duty personnel, Department of Defense data show. While transgender rights advocates say there are as many as 15,000 transgender service members, officials say the number is in the low thousands. When Trump announced his first ban in 2017, he said the military needed to focus on "decisive and overwhelming victory" without being burdened by the "tremendous medical costs and disruption" of having transgender personnel. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rights groups sue Trump against order banning transgender service members

Robert 'Bob' Menendez, a powerful former US Senator, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison. On Wednesday (Jan 29), the 71-year-old Democrat was given a prison sentence over corruption charges. This comes after gold bars and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash were discovered at his home.&nbsp;
Following the sentencing, the Democrat leader was heard concurring with Republican President Donald Trump's convictions that the US justice system was "corrupted to the core".
<h2>'You lost your way'</h2>
Sentencing the Democrat leader, District Judge Sidney Stein told him, "Somewhere along the way&hellip; you lost your way".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-bob-menendez-us-senator-who-resigned-after-conviction-on-corruption-charges-743709">Who is Bob Menendez? US senator who resigned after conviction on corruption charges</a>
"Working for the public good became working for your good," admonished the judge.
Robert Menendez, a Democrat from New Jersey, was convicted on multiple federal charges, including extortion, obstruction of justice, accepting bribes and acting as an agent of foreign governments - Egypt and Qatar.&nbsp;
<h2>Bob Menendez to appeal verdict</h2>
A crying Menendez had asked the judge for mercy, ahead of the sentencing, reports AFP.&nbsp;
"I am going to ask you for mercy -- not for me, but for Anthony," he said, referring to his son who has autism.
Prosecutors were seeking a jail term of 15 years for the Democrat, his counsel meanwhile was aiming for no more than eight years behind bars.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-meta-agreed-to-pay-25-mn-to-us-president-trump-8669842">Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump?</a>
Outside the court, on Wednesday, the former public official vowed he would appeal his prosecution, which he in Trump fashion labelled a "witch hunt".
He also said that Trump was right about the justice system. "President (Donald) Trump is right. This process is political, and it's corrupted to the core. I hope President Trump cleans up the cesspool and restores integrity to the system," he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
During a raid of his New Jersey home, FBI agents had found nearly $500,000 in cash hidden around the house, along with gold bars worth around $150,000 and a luxury Mercedes-Benz convertible.&nbsp;
Subsequently, he was convicted alongside two of the businessmen he helped &mdash; Egyptian-American Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, a real estate developer. The two men were also handed jail terms on Wednesday. In March, a third business person, insurance broker Jose Uribe, had pleaded guilty to bribery charges and chose to assist investigators.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Former US Senator Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years for corruption involving cash, gold bars; echoes Trump's claims of a corrupted justice system.

Robert 'Bob' Menendez, a powerful former US Senator, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison. On Wednesday (Jan 29), the 71-year-old Democrat was given a prison sentence over corruption charges. This comes after gold bars and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash were discovered at his home. Following the sentencing, the Democrat leader was heard concurring with Republican President Donald Trump's convictions that the US justice system was "corrupted to the core". 'You lost your way' Sentencing the Democrat leader, District Judge Sidney Stein told him, "Somewhere along the way… you lost your way". Also read | Who is Bob Menendez? US senator who resigned after conviction on corruption charges "Working for the public good became working for your good," admonished the judge. Robert Menendez, a Democrat from New Jersey, was convicted on multiple federal charges, including extortion, obstruction of justice, accepting bribes and acting as an agent of foreign governments - Egypt and Qatar. Bob Menendez to appeal verdict A crying Menendez had asked the judge for mercy, ahead of the sentencing, reports AFP. "I am going to ask you for mercy -- not for me, but for Anthony," he said, referring to his son who has autism. Prosecutors were seeking a jail term of 15 years for the Democrat, his counsel meanwhile was aiming for no more than eight years behind bars. Also read | Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump? Outside the court, on Wednesday, the former public official vowed he would appeal his prosecution, which he in Trump fashion labelled a "witch hunt". He also said that Trump was right about the justice system. "President (Donald) Trump is right. This process is political, and it's corrupted to the core. I hope President Trump cleans up the cesspool and restores integrity to the system," he said. Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison During a raid of his New Jersey home, FBI agents had found nearly $500,000 in cash hidden around the house, along with gold bars worth around $150,000 and a luxury Mercedes-Benz convertible. Subsequently, he was convicted alongside two of the businessmen he helped — Egyptian-American Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, a real estate developer. The two men were also handed jail terms on Wednesday. In March, a third business person, insurance broker Jose Uribe, had pleaded guilty to bribery charges and chose to assist investigators. (With inputs from agencies)

Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years for corruption. Echoing Trump, ex-senator claims justice system is 'corrupted'

Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter.
The lawsuit was filed by the president after Meta suspended his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Trump has signed settlement papers that require Meta to pay roughly $25 million to resolve the lawsuit, reported The Wall Street Journal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
<h2>The $25 mn agreement</h2>
According to the report citing people familiar with the agreement, $22 million of the payment will fund the presidential library of Trump, while the remaining will cover the legal fees and other payments related to the case.
In the settlement, Meta will not admit wrongdoing for suspending Trump&rsquo;s accounts. A spokesperson for Meta confirmed the agreement to news agency AFP.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/metas-former-coo-sheryl-sandberg-sanctioned-by-delaware-judge-over-alleged-email-deletions-8655488">Meta&rsquo;s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions</a>
Trump criticised the Meta platforms for suspending his account after his supporters attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021. His comments were also seen as praising the people involved in the violence.
<h2>Tech mogul supports Trump</h2>
Trump had recently courted tech moguls including X owner Elon Musk along with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The two were present during his inaugural ceremony on January 20.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lee-zeldin-confirmed-as-trumps-pick-for-environmental-protection-agency-8669732">Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency</a>
Zuckerberg has also shown support for the new president. Reportedly, he dined with Trump at his Florida estate in November last year. The CEO recently announced an overhaul of Meta policies, lifting restrictions on content on its platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads.
Meta rolled back its fact-checking operations, saying it would be &ldquo;restoring free expression on our platforms&rdquo;, said Zuckerberg.&nbsp;
Watch | US: Passenger plane collides midair with military helicopter in Washington DC
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/3001_Manav_BREAKING_930AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/3001_Manav_BREAKING_930AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=261&amp;tags=us, plane collision, helicopter collision, potomac river, washington dc," title="US: Passenger plane collides midair with military helicopter in Washington DC " id="PL_iframe_block-m6iwgqix-1ql9p086-h7d10w9a"></iframe>
The latest settlement is yet another bow by a media corporation as Trump has assumed the office for the second time.
In December, ABC News settled an agreement with Trump by agreeing to pay $15 million to resolve a defamation lawsuit by Trump after a top anchor made comments about him on-air.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The lawsuit was filed by the president after Meta suspended his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Trump has signed settlement papers that require Meta to pay roughly $25 million to resolve the lawsuit.

Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter. The lawsuit was filed by the president after Meta suspended his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Trump has signed settlement papers that require Meta to pay roughly $25 million to resolve the lawsuit, reported The Wall Street Journal. Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison The $25 mn agreement According to the report citing people familiar with the agreement, $22 million of the payment will fund the presidential library of Trump, while the remaining will cover the legal fees and other payments related to the case. In the settlement, Meta will not admit wrongdoing for suspending Trump’s accounts. A spokesperson for Meta confirmed the agreement to news agency AFP. Also read | Meta’s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions Trump criticised the Meta platforms for suspending his account after his supporters attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021. His comments were also seen as praising the people involved in the violence. Tech mogul supports Trump Trump had recently courted tech moguls including X owner Elon Musk along with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The two were present during his inaugural ceremony on January 20. Also read | Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency Zuckerberg has also shown support for the new president. Reportedly, he dined with Trump at his Florida estate in November last year. The CEO recently announced an overhaul of Meta policies, lifting restrictions on content on its platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads. Meta rolled back its fact-checking operations, saying it would be “restoring free expression on our platforms”, said Zuckerberg. Watch | US: Passenger plane collides midair with military helicopter in Washington DC The latest settlement is yet another bow by a media corporation as Trump has assumed the office for the second time. In December, ABC News settled an agreement with Trump by agreeing to pay $15 million to resolve a defamation lawsuit by Trump after a top anchor made comments about him on-air. (With inputs from agencies)

Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump?

A regional passenger jet crashed after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport on Wednesday (Jan 29).
US President Donald Trump plans to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, the infamous military base in Cuba used to hold terrorism suspects since the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;
In other news, following the stampede at the world's largest religious gathering in India, Maha Kumbh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued guidelines to implement stricter crowd management protocols.
Meanwhile, Meta has agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump for suspending his accounts following the US Capitol attack.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apparent-air-crash-in-potomac-river-washington-police-8669725" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/oS9bn3uwPdyYwHQ9Lpe4.jpg" alt=" VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington Photograph: (X) ">
A regional passenger jet crashed Wednesday after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport, the White House and aviation officials said, prompting a major emergency response and grounding of all flights.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/Q0X3VutCWEF8ilxhyFyu.png" alt=" L: Donald Trump file photo. R: Archival image Guantanamo Bay. Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP and Reuters) ">
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 29) unveiled a controversial plan to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, a notorious United States military prison.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-stampede-up-cm-yogi-adityanath-tightens-arrangements-issues-fresh-orders-to-avoid-more-tragedies-8669675" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh Stampede: UP CM Yogi Adityanath tightens arrangements, issues fresh orders to avoid more tragedies</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/KTvwgcZSom7tdVyJi7WH.png" alt=" File Photo: Yogi Adityanath and Maha Kumbh 2025 stampede. Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP and Reuters) ">
In the wake of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a slew of guidelines on crowd management, traffic flow, prevention of build-up of devotees and coordination among departments.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-meta-agreed-to-pay-25-mn-to-us-president-trump-8669842" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/30/xQUyrvKNxNtRYU8caiGd.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Photograph: (AFP) ">
Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter.
Watch | At least 75 Rohingya refugees sail to Indonesia
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&nbsp;

Begin your day with WION's comprehensive morning news brief, delivering the latest headlines and key updates to keep you informed and ready for the day ahead.

A regional passenger jet crashed after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport on Wednesday (Jan 29). US President Donald Trump plans to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, the infamous military base in Cuba used to hold terrorism suspects since the 9/11 attacks. In other news, following the stampede at the world's largest religious gathering in India, Maha Kumbh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued guidelines to implement stricter crowd management protocols. Meanwhile, Meta has agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump for suspending his accounts following the US Capitol attack. Click on the headlines for more VIDEO | White House says passenger jet collided midair with helicopter over Washington A regional passenger jet crashed Wednesday after colliding with a military helicopter mid-air near Washington's Reagan National Airport, the White House and aviation officials said, prompting a major emergency response and grounding of all flights. Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 29) unveiled a controversial plan to detain thousands of undocumented migrants at Guantanamo Bay, a notorious United States military prison. Maha Kumbh Stampede: UP CM Yogi Adityanath tightens arrangements, issues fresh orders to avoid more tragedies In the wake of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a slew of guidelines on crowd management, traffic flow, prevention of build-up of devotees and coordination among departments. Why has Meta agreed to pay $25 mn to US President Trump? Meta is to pay $25 million to United States President Donald Trump. The company agreed to pay the amount to settle a lawsuit filed by Trump in 2021, according to people familiar with the matter. Watch | At least 75 Rohingya refugees sail to Indonesia

Morning news brief: Passenger plane collides with helicopter in Washington; Trump plans to detain 'illegal aliens', and more

Mexico will write to Google objecting to its decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America" on its maps following Donald Trump's order, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday.
Google said the change aligned with its policy of following official US government geographic designations through the Geographic Names Information System.
"We are drafting a letter to Google," Sheinbaum said at her daily news conference, adding that the message would emphasise that only an international organisation could change the name, not a single country.
Trump signed executive orders renaming the Gulf of Mexico and reverting the name of North America's highest peak, Denali, back to Mount McKinley soon after his January 20 inauguration.
Sheinbaum cheekily suggested earlier this month calling the United States "Mexican America," pointing to a map from before one-third of her country was seized by the United States in 1848.
Google said that users outside the United States would continue to see both the original and new names of the Gulf of Mexico and Denali, as is always the case for disputed locations.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Google said the change aligned with its policy of following official US government geographic designations through the Geographic Names Information System.

Mexico will write to Google objecting to its decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America" on its maps following Donald Trump's order, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday. Google said the change aligned with its policy of following official US government geographic designations through the Geographic Names Information System. "We are drafting a letter to Google," Sheinbaum said at her daily news conference, adding that the message would emphasise that only an international organisation could change the name, not a single country. Trump signed executive orders renaming the Gulf of Mexico and reverting the name of North America's highest peak, Denali, back to Mount McKinley soon after his January 20 inauguration. Sheinbaum cheekily suggested earlier this month calling the United States "Mexican America," pointing to a map from before one-third of her country was seized by the United States in 1848. Google said that users outside the United States would continue to see both the original and new names of the Gulf of Mexico and Denali, as is always the case for disputed locations. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mexico to write to Google for changing Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America' on its maps

President Donald Trump's nominee to head the US Environmental Protection Agency was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday, drawing cheers from the fossil fuel industry and sparking alarm among green groups.
Lee Zeldin, a former US congressman from New York, has committed to Trump's campaign pledges of boosting US energy dominance and rolling back environmental regulations enacted under former president Joe Biden.
The 44-year-old's nomination was confirmed by a 56-42 vote, with Democrats John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as well as Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona crossing the aisle to vote with their Republican colleagues.&nbsp;
Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Jon Ossoff of Georgia did not vote.&nbsp;
"Administrator Lee Zeldin has a proven track record of finding solutions to the nation's most pressing energy challenges," said American Petroleum Institute president and CEO Mike Sommers.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-commerce-secretary-nominee-lutnick-advocates-across-the-board-tariffs-in-senate-hearing-8669715">Trump&rsquo;s commerce secretary nominee Lutnick advocates 'across-the-board' tariffs in senate hearing</a>
"We look forward to working with him to advance American energy leadership, from developing smart, effective regulations to ensuring consumers &ndash; not the government &ndash; can choose the vehicles they drive."&nbsp;
Faced with hostile Democratic questioning during his confirmation hearing, Zeldin acknowledged human-caused climate change is real, in contrast with Trump, who has derided it as a hoax.&nbsp;
But he repeatedly emphasized his commitment to "clean air" and "clean water," echoing rhetoric commonly used by conservatives who champion fossil fuels while resisting efforts to combat the worsening climate crisis, which is disrupting ecosystems and intensifying extreme weather events.
"With today's vote, Senate Republicans have installed yet another Trump loyalist to advance his agenda of environmental destruction," said Evergreen Action's Executive Director Lena Moffitt.
"Despite Lee Zeldin's repeated assurances to 'fully' follow the law, his blind loyalty to President Trump in the face of illegal, destructive executive actions makes it clear that his EPA will put polluters over people."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a>
Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, warned that Zeldin's leadership should be scrutinized closely.
"Let's be clear-eyed that every other person Trump has already deployed to the EPA's pesticide, water and air divisions has a long track record of putting industry profits and polluters above our health and the environment," he said.
Zeldin's confirmation comes amid sweeping moves by Trump to reshape US environmental policy.
On his very first day in office, Trump announced he was removing the United States from the Paris climate accord for a second time, declared a "national energy emergency" to expand drilling, and signed executive orders to slow the transition to electric vehicles and halt offshore windshore farms.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | The 44-year-old's nomination was confirmed by a 56-42 vote, with Democrats John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as well as Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona crossing the aisle to vote with their Republican colleagues. 

President Donald Trump's nominee to head the US Environmental Protection Agency was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday, drawing cheers from the fossil fuel industry and sparking alarm among green groups. Lee Zeldin, a former US congressman from New York, has committed to Trump's campaign pledges of boosting US energy dominance and rolling back environmental regulations enacted under former president Joe Biden. The 44-year-old's nomination was confirmed by a 56-42 vote, with Democrats John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as well as Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona crossing the aisle to vote with their Republican colleagues. Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Jon Ossoff of Georgia did not vote. "Administrator Lee Zeldin has a proven track record of finding solutions to the nation's most pressing energy challenges," said American Petroleum Institute president and CEO Mike Sommers. Also read | Trump’s commerce secretary nominee Lutnick advocates 'across-the-board' tariffs in senate hearing "We look forward to working with him to advance American energy leadership, from developing smart, effective regulations to ensuring consumers – not the government – can choose the vehicles they drive." Faced with hostile Democratic questioning during his confirmation hearing, Zeldin acknowledged human-caused climate change is real, in contrast with Trump, who has derided it as a hoax. But he repeatedly emphasized his commitment to "clean air" and "clean water," echoing rhetoric commonly used by conservatives who champion fossil fuels while resisting efforts to combat the worsening climate crisis, which is disrupting ecosystems and intensifying extreme weather events. "With today's vote, Senate Republicans have installed yet another Trump loyalist to advance his agenda of environmental destruction," said Evergreen Action's Executive Director Lena Moffitt. "Despite Lee Zeldin's repeated assurances to 'fully' follow the law, his blind loyalty to President Trump in the face of illegal, destructive executive actions makes it clear that his EPA will put polluters over people." Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, warned that Zeldin's leadership should be scrutinized closely. "Let's be clear-eyed that every other person Trump has already deployed to the EPA's pesticide, water and air divisions has a long track record of putting industry profits and polluters above our health and the environment," he said. Zeldin's confirmation comes amid sweeping moves by Trump to reshape US environmental policy. On his very first day in office, Trump announced he was removing the United States from the Paris climate accord for a second time, declared a "national energy emergency" to expand drilling, and signed executive orders to slow the transition to electric vehicles and halt offshore windshore farms. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency

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