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US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well.&nbsp;
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"To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans.
Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the directives as an effort to bring back the military to an unapologetically masculine professional culture.&nbsp;
Hegseth further blamed equitable hiring and staffing practices for the American military's lower standards and capacity for warfighting.
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The order further potentially banned soldiers who identify themselves as any gender other than the one assigned at birth, calling it a hurdle to the physical and mental well-being that is necessary for military service.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Consistent with the military mission and longstanding DoD policy, expressing a false &lsquo;gender identity&rsquo; divergent from an individual&rsquo;s sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service,&rdquo; the order read.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Beyond the hormonal and surgical medical interventions involved, adoption of a gender identity inconsistent with an individual&rsquo;s sex conflicts with a soldier&rsquo;s commitment to an honourable, truthful and disciplined lifestyle, even in one&rsquo;s personal life," it said.&nbsp;
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It said that when a man calls himself a woman and expects that others respect his "falsehood," this does not go with the requirement of "selfness" of a service member.
<h3>What will happen now?</h3>
As per the orders, no transgender soldier will be excluded from the service immediately. The Pentagon has been given 60 days to amend its policy and 30 more days to submit the revised guidance describing how the vision will be implemented.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-agrees-to-accept-deported-migrants-on-military-planes-averts-trade-war-with-us-8659770" aria-label="Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants">Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants</a>
In other orders, Trump directed the Pentagon to reinstate military members who were discharged from the service after refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine. As many as 8,200 service members were discharged for refusing the vaccine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the directives as an effort to bring back the military to an unapologetically masculine professional culture. 

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well. Also read: Trump advocates for border crackdown at House Republican Retreat, concluding first week in office "To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans. Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described the directives as an effort to bring back the military to an unapologetically masculine professional culture. Hegseth further blamed equitable hiring and staffing practices for the American military's lower standards and capacity for warfighting. Also read: PM Modi to visit US in Feb, Trump says India ‘will do what's right’ on immigrants The order further potentially banned soldiers who identify themselves as any gender other than the one assigned at birth, calling it a hurdle to the physical and mental well-being that is necessary for military service. “Consistent with the military mission and longstanding DoD policy, expressing a false ‘gender identity’ divergent from an individual’s sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service,” the order read. “Beyond the hormonal and surgical medical interventions involved, adoption of a gender identity inconsistent with an individual’s sex conflicts with a soldier’s commitment to an honourable, truthful and disciplined lifestyle, even in one’s personal life," it said. Also read: Trump says Microsoft in talks to buy TikTok, encourages bidding war It said that when a man calls himself a woman and expects that others respect his "falsehood," this does not go with the requirement of "selfness" of a service member. What will happen now? As per the orders, no transgender soldier will be excluded from the service immediately. The Pentagon has been given 60 days to amend its policy and 30 more days to submit the revised guidance describing how the vision will be implemented. Also read: Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants In other orders, Trump directed the Pentagon to reinstate military members who were discharged from the service after refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine. As many as 8,200 service members were discharged for refusing the vaccine. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump signs order banning transgender people from US military. What are the new guidelines?

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Jan 27) that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States in February.
&ldquo;He (PM Modi) will visit the US sometime in February,&rdquo; news agency Reuters quoted Donald Trump as saying.
This comes after Trump on Monday had a "productive" phone call with PM Narendra Modi, where the two leaders discussed expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation and issues including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. 
This was the first telephonic conversation between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi since the Republican was sworn in for a second term on January 20.
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The American leader noted he discussed the issue of immigration with the Indian Premier and said Prime Minister Modi "will do what's right" when it comes to taking back Indian immigrants who came to the US illegally.
<h2 dir="ltr">PM Modi on call with Trump</h2>
PM Modi on Monday posted on X that the two countries are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership.
"Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security," PM Modi said after the talks concluded.
<h2 dir="ltr">White House on Trump-Modi call</h2>
The White House released a statement on the talks held between the two leaders, saying that the two "discussed expanding and deepening cooperation."
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"Today, President Donald J. Trump held a productive call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The two leaders discussed expanding and deepening cooperation. They also discussed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe," it said.
"The President emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward a fair bilateral trading relationship. The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year," it added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India News: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the United States in February as paer an announcement by US President Donald Trump on January 27.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday (Jan 27) that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States in February. “He (PM Modi) will visit the US sometime in February,” news agency Reuters quoted Donald Trump as saying. This comes after Trump on Monday had a "productive" phone call with PM Narendra Modi, where the two leaders discussed expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation and issues including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. This was the first telephonic conversation between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi since the Republican was sworn in for a second term on January 20. Also read | PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call The American leader noted he discussed the issue of immigration with the Indian Premier and said Prime Minister Modi "will do what's right" when it comes to taking back Indian immigrants who came to the US illegally. PM Modi on call with Trump PM Modi on Monday posted on X that the two countries are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. "Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump @POTUS. Congratulated him on his historic second term. We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security," PM Modi said after the talks concluded. White House on Trump-Modi call The White House released a statement on the talks held between the two leaders, saying that the two "discussed expanding and deepening cooperation." Also read | Prime Minister Modi highlights India's growing concert economy, citing Coldplay's tour "Today, President Donald J. Trump held a productive call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The two leaders discussed expanding and deepening cooperation. They also discussed a range of regional issues, including security in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe," it said. "The President emphasized the importance of India increasing its procurement of American-made security equipment and moving toward a fair bilateral trading relationship. The leaders discussed plans for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House, underscoring the strength of the friendship and strategic ties between our nations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to advance the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the Indo-Pacific Quad partnership, with India hosting Quad Leaders for the first time later this year," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to visit US in Feb, Trump says India ‘will do what's right’ on immigrants

Clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's besieged city of Goma have killed at least 17 people and wounded nearly 370, hospital sources said on Monday, as the Congolese military fought to hold off M23 forces backed by the Rwandan army.
Artillery fire and gunshots echoed across the major hub in the DRC's mineral-rich east, as Kigali said five civilians were killed across the Rwandan border.
There were conflicting accounts over how much of Goma remained under Congolese control after the M23 armed group and Rwandan soldiers entered the city centre on Sunday night.
"We are in our beds because we are afraid," Goma resident Lucie told AFP by telephone.
"We can hear the shooting outside our homes, we cannot leave."
The M23 resurfaced in late 2021 after years of dormancy and began seizing large swathes of North Kivu province.
But fighting with the Congolese military has intensified since early this year, in the latest chapter of the internal and cross-border violence that has dogged the eastern DRC for three decades.
Besides the more than a million who call Goma home, the provincial capital is host to nearly as many displaced by fighting.
Hospitals in the city were on Monday treating 367 people wounded in the clashes, while tolls obtained by AFP listed at least 17 people dead.&nbsp;
"Our surgical teams are now working around the clock to cope with the massive influx of wounded," Myriam Favier, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in North Kivu province, told AFP.
Most of those affected were civilians, Favier said.
The fighting has intensified a humanitarian crisis, displacing half a million people just this month, according to UN refugee chief Filippo Grandi. The UN has also warned the conflict could spark a regional war.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crisis-in-congo-400000-displaced-as-m23-rebels-advance-un-security-council-convenes-urgently-8655802" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Crisis in Congo: 400,000 displaced as M23 rebels advance; UN Security Council convenes urgently</a>
The DRC government said it "continues to work to avoid carnage and the loss of human life" in Goma, spokesman Patrick Muyaya said on X.
The M23 claimed Sunday night was a "glorious day marking the liberation for the city of Goma," issuing an ultimatum to Congolese soldiers to hand over their weapons.
<h2>Crisis summit</h2>
M23 fighters and Rwandan soldiers entered Goma after weeks of advancing on the city, according to the UN and security sources.&nbsp;
Kenyan President William Ruto said Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame would attend a crisis summit on Wednesday.&nbsp;
The African Union's Peace and Security Council is due to meet on Tuesday to discuss the escalating crisis.
In a call with Tshisekedi, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated Washington's "respect for the sovereignty of the DRC" and agreed on the need to "restart talks between the DRC and Rwanda as soon as possible", his office said Monday.
The DRC and Rwanda have had fraught relations for decades.
Kinshasa has accused Kigali of wanting to get hold of the region's mineral wealth, including gold&mdash;an accusation that Rwanda denies.
<h2>Goma jailbreak</h2>
As Goma descended into chaos, a mass jailbreak from a torched prison resulted in deaths on Monday, a security source told AFP.
In parts of the city, M23 fighters were welcomed by celebrating locals, AFP journalists said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congo-islamic-state-group-linked-adf-kill-at-least-21-over-christmas-week-8574235" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">DR Congo: Islamic State group-linked ADF kill at least 21 over Christmas week</a>
Some Congolese units had begun to surrender by handing over their weapons to peacekeepers in Goma, according to Uruguay's military, which provides soldiers to the UN force in the DRC, known as MONUSCO.
Exchanges of fire took place between Congolese and Rwandan troops on either side of a border crossing near Goma, a diplomatic source told AFP.
Five civilians were killed and 25 seriously wounded on the outskirts of Rwandan border town Gisenyi, Rwanda's military told AFP on Monday.
Rwandan military spokesman Ronald Rwivanga told AFP that some 120 Congolese fighters had been "disarmed" near Gisenyi.
Rwivanga said the military had "intercepted and shot down some of the bombs, but unfortunately we couldn't intercept all of them".
The border between Rwanda and the DRC near Goma was also closed on Monday, a European consulate source told AFP, although Rwandan state media said buses were ready to evacuate UN staff and their families from Goma.
<h2>'Declaration of war'</h2>
Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner said the arrival of Rwandan soldiers to reinforce the M23 in Goma on Sunday was "a declaration of war".
Addressing an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Sunday, she urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda.
The Security Council called for the withdrawal of aggressive "external forces" but stopped short of explicitly naming them.
Rwanda has rejected calls to withdraw.
The fighting near the border poses "a serious threat" and "necessitates Rwanda's sustained defensive posture", Rwanda's foreign ministry said.
Thirteen foreign peacekeepers have been killed in the escalating clashes.
Both the DRC and Rwanda have withdrawn their diplomats from each other's capitals.
Kayikwamba called on the UN Security Council to impose a "total embargo on the export of all minerals labelled as Rwandan, in particular gold".
Rwanda has rejected the DRC's accusations.
A UN experts' report said Rwanda was using the M23 to secure access to the DRC's mineral wealth, exporting it abroad for its own gain.
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 | There were conflicting accounts over how much of Goma remained under Congolese control after the M23 armed group and Rwandan soldiers entered the city centre on Sunday night.

Clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's besieged city of Goma have killed at least 17 people and wounded nearly 370, hospital sources said on Monday, as the Congolese military fought to hold off M23 forces backed by the Rwandan army. Artillery fire and gunshots echoed across the major hub in the DRC's mineral-rich east, as Kigali said five civilians were killed across the Rwandan border. There were conflicting accounts over how much of Goma remained under Congolese control after the M23 armed group and Rwandan soldiers entered the city centre on Sunday night. "We are in our beds because we are afraid," Goma resident Lucie told AFP by telephone. "We can hear the shooting outside our homes, we cannot leave." The M23 resurfaced in late 2021 after years of dormancy and began seizing large swathes of North Kivu province. But fighting with the Congolese military has intensified since early this year, in the latest chapter of the internal and cross-border violence that has dogged the eastern DRC for three decades. Besides the more than a million who call Goma home, the provincial capital is host to nearly as many displaced by fighting. Hospitals in the city were on Monday treating 367 people wounded in the clashes, while tolls obtained by AFP listed at least 17 people dead. "Our surgical teams are now working around the clock to cope with the massive influx of wounded," Myriam Favier, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in North Kivu province, told AFP. Most of those affected were civilians, Favier said. The fighting has intensified a humanitarian crisis, displacing half a million people just this month, according to UN refugee chief Filippo Grandi. The UN has also warned the conflict could spark a regional war. Also read | Crisis in Congo: 400,000 displaced as M23 rebels advance; UN Security Council convenes urgently The DRC government said it "continues to work to avoid carnage and the loss of human life" in Goma, spokesman Patrick Muyaya said on X. The M23 claimed Sunday night was a "glorious day marking the liberation for the city of Goma," issuing an ultimatum to Congolese soldiers to hand over their weapons. Crisis summit M23 fighters and Rwandan soldiers entered Goma after weeks of advancing on the city, according to the UN and security sources. Kenyan President William Ruto said Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame would attend a crisis summit on Wednesday. The African Union's Peace and Security Council is due to meet on Tuesday to discuss the escalating crisis. In a call with Tshisekedi, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated Washington's "respect for the sovereignty of the DRC" and agreed on the need to "restart talks between the DRC and Rwanda as soon as possible", his office said Monday. The DRC and Rwanda have had fraught relations for decades. Kinshasa has accused Kigali of wanting to get hold of the region's mineral wealth, including gold—an accusation that Rwanda denies. Goma jailbreak As Goma descended into chaos, a mass jailbreak from a torched prison resulted in deaths on Monday, a security source told AFP. In parts of the city, M23 fighters were welcomed by celebrating locals, AFP journalists said. Also read | DR Congo: Islamic State group-linked ADF kill at least 21 over Christmas week Some Congolese units had begun to surrender by handing over their weapons to peacekeepers in Goma, according to Uruguay's military, which provides soldiers to the UN force in the DRC, known as MONUSCO. Exchanges of fire took place between Congolese and Rwandan troops on either side of a border crossing near Goma, a diplomatic source told AFP. Five civilians were killed and 25 seriously wounded on the outskirts of Rwandan border town Gisenyi, Rwanda's military told AFP on Monday. Rwandan military spokesman Ronald Rwivanga told AFP that some 120 Congolese fighters had been "disarmed" near Gisenyi. Rwivanga said the military had "intercepted and shot down some of the bombs, but unfortunately we couldn't intercept all of them". The border between Rwanda and the DRC near Goma was also closed on Monday, a European consulate source told AFP, although Rwandan state media said buses were ready to evacuate UN staff and their families from Goma. 'Declaration of war' Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner said the arrival of Rwandan soldiers to reinforce the M23 in Goma on Sunday was "a declaration of war". Addressing an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Sunday, she urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Rwanda. The Security Council called for the withdrawal of aggressive "external forces" but stopped short of explicitly naming them. Rwanda has rejected calls to withdraw. The fighting near the border poses "a serious threat" and "necessitates Rwanda's sustained defensive posture", Rwanda's foreign ministry said. Thirteen foreign peacekeepers have been killed in the escalating clashes. Both the DRC and Rwanda have withdrawn their diplomats from each other's capitals. Kayikwamba called on the UN Security Council to impose a "total embargo on the export of all minerals labelled as Rwandan, in particular gold". Rwanda has rejected the DRC's accusations. A UN experts' report said Rwanda was using the M23 to secure access to the DRC's mineral wealth, exporting it abroad for its own gain. 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.

At least 17 killed in DR Congo's Goma as Rwanda-backed forces seize city

A man charged over the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol, and pardoned by President Donald Trump, was killed by police during a traffic stop, according to officials.
Matthew Huttle, 42, was killed by a sheriff's deputy Sunday after he "resisted" arrest during a traffic stop in northwest Indiana, a state police statement said.
"An altercation took place between the suspect and the officer, which resulted in the officer firing his weapon and fatally wounding the suspect," the statement said, without providing further details, except that Huttle was in possession of a firearm.
US media outlets identified Huttle as one of the approximately 1,500 people charged or convicted for participating in the Capitol assault who were pardoned by Trump.
The move by Trump just hours after he took office last week drew fierce criticism from Democrats and some pushback from Republicans for including people convicted of violently attacking police.
Huttle was sentenced to six months in prison and was released last July, local news outlet FOX59 said.
His uncle also participated in the January 6 assault and was sentenced last year to 30 months in prison, the news station said, after he pled guilty to assaulting police officers with a flag pole.
Media reports have also said another pardon recipient, Daniel Ball of Florida, was quickly rearrested last week over a federal gun charge that predated the Capitol attack.
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.

Discover the shocking incident involving Matthew Huttle, a pardoned Jan 6 rioter, who was fatally shot by police during a traffic stop in Indiana after reportedly resisting arrest.

A man charged over the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol, and pardoned by President Donald Trump, was killed by police during a traffic stop, according to officials. Matthew Huttle, 42, was killed by a sheriff's deputy Sunday after he "resisted" arrest during a traffic stop in northwest Indiana, a state police statement said. "An altercation took place between the suspect and the officer, which resulted in the officer firing his weapon and fatally wounding the suspect," the statement said, without providing further details, except that Huttle was in possession of a firearm. US media outlets identified Huttle as one of the approximately 1,500 people charged or convicted for participating in the Capitol assault who were pardoned by Trump. The move by Trump just hours after he took office last week drew fierce criticism from Democrats and some pushback from Republicans for including people convicted of violently attacking police. Huttle was sentenced to six months in prison and was released last July, local news outlet FOX59 said. His uncle also participated in the January 6 assault and was sentenced last year to 30 months in prison, the news station said, after he pled guilty to assaulting police officers with a flag pole. Media reports have also said another pardon recipient, Daniel Ball of Florida, was quickly rearrested last week over a federal gun charge that predated the Capitol attack. 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.

Matthew Huttle, Jan 6 rioter pardoned by Trump, fatally shot by police at a traffic stop

Some of the few remaining survivors of Auschwitz returned to the Nazi death camp on Monday, condemning a "huge rise" in anti-Semitism on the 80th anniversary of its liberation.
Auschwitz was the largest of the extermination camps built by Nazi Germany and has become a symbol of the Holocaust of six million European Jews. One million Jews and more than 100,000 non-Jews died at the site between 1940 and 1945.
"Eighty years after liberation, the world is again in crisis," warned Tova Friedman, 86, adding that "the rampant anti-Semitism that is spreading among the nations is shocking".
Along with Marian Turski, Janina Iwanska, and Leon Weintraub, Friedman was one of four former prisoners who spoke at the ceremony.
In total 50 fellow survivors gathered at the main commemoration outside the gates of Auschwitz II-Birkenau, joined by dozens of world leaders.
Earlier on Monday, elderly former inmates, some wearing scarves in the blue-and-white stripes of their death camp uniforms, laid flowers at the site, touching the camp's Wall of Death in silence.
"Today, and now, we see a huge rise in anti-Semitism and it is precisely anti-Semitism that led to the Holocaust," Turski, 98, warned those at the ceremony.
Weintraub, a 99-year-old Polish-born Swedish physician, asked for the young to "be sensitive" to intolerance and discrimination and condemned the proliferation of Nazi-inspired movements in Europe.
<h2>'Never be silent'</h2>
Also speaking at the ceremony, World Jewish Congress president Ronald Lauder said the horrors of Auschwitz and Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023 were both inspired by "the age-old hatred of Jews".
Anti-Semitism "had its willing supporters then, and it has them now," he said.
"On January 27, 1945 when the Red Army entered these gates, the world finally saw where the step-by-step progress of anti-Semitism leads. It leads right here."
"Today all of us must take a pledge to never be silent when it comes to anti-Semitism or for that matter any other hatred," Lauder said.
The streets of Oswiecim were mainly deserted except for police and fleets of official cars. The camp was closed to the public and largely silent except for the fluttering of the Auschwitz Museum flags.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Britain's King Charles III and French President Emmanuel Macron and dozens of other international leaders attended the commemoration.
Organisers had however decided not to include political speeches to keep the focus on the survivors.
<h2>'Responsibility of remembrance'</h2>
In a statement, Zelensky said the world must unite "to prevent evil from winning".
Russia's President Vladimir Putin praised the role of Soviet soldiers in ending the "total evil" of Auschwitz.
Until its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a Russian delegation had always attended the ceremony but Moscow was barred again this year.
Organisers said this could be the last major anniversary with such a large group of survivors.
"We all know that in 10 years it will not be possible to have a large group for the 90th anniversary," Auschwitz Museum spokesman Pawel Sawicki said.
"As the number of Holocaust survivors regrettably diminishes with the passage of time, the responsibility of remembrance rests far heavier on our shoulders and on those of generations yet unborn," King Charles said on a visit to Jewish community centre in Krakow on Monday.
Auschwitz was created in 1940 using barracks in Oswiecim, southern Poland. Its name was Germanised into Auschwitz by the Nazis.
The first 728 Polish political prisoners arrived on June 14 of that year.
On January 17, 1945, as Soviet troops advanced, the Nazi SS forced 60,000 emaciated prisoners to walk west in what became known as the "Death March".
From January 21-26, the Germans blew up the Birkenau gas chambers and crematoria and withdrew as Soviet troops approached.
On January 27, Soviet troops found 7,000 survivors when they arrived.
The day of its liberation has been designated by the United Nations as Holocaust Remembrance Day.
<h2>'Will they believe us?'</h2>
Ahead of the anniversary, survivors spoke to AFP about the need to preserve the memory of what happened in the death camp and warned of rising hatred and anti-Semitism. They also expressed fears that history could repeat itself.
Some 40 survivors in 15 countries told their stories, alone or surrounded by their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren -- proof of their victory over absolute evil.
Julia Wallach, who is nearly 100, cannot recall the events without crying.
"It is too difficult to talk about, too hard," she said. The Parisian was dragged off a lorry destined for the gas chamber in Birkenau at the last minute.
But hard as it is to relive the horrors, she insisted she would continue to bear witness.
"As long as I can do it, I will do it." Nearby, her granddaughter Frankie asked: "Will they believe us when we talk about this when she is not there?"
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.

Holocaust Remembrance Day marks 80 years since Auschwitz's liberation, with survivors highlighting the alarming rise in global anti-Semitism and its historical dangers.

Some of the few remaining survivors of Auschwitz returned to the Nazi death camp on Monday, condemning a "huge rise" in anti-Semitism on the 80th anniversary of its liberation. Auschwitz was the largest of the extermination camps built by Nazi Germany and has become a symbol of the Holocaust of six million European Jews. One million Jews and more than 100,000 non-Jews died at the site between 1940 and 1945. "Eighty years after liberation, the world is again in crisis," warned Tova Friedman, 86, adding that "the rampant anti-Semitism that is spreading among the nations is shocking". Along with Marian Turski, Janina Iwanska, and Leon Weintraub, Friedman was one of four former prisoners who spoke at the ceremony. In total 50 fellow survivors gathered at the main commemoration outside the gates of Auschwitz II-Birkenau, joined by dozens of world leaders. Earlier on Monday, elderly former inmates, some wearing scarves in the blue-and-white stripes of their death camp uniforms, laid flowers at the site, touching the camp's Wall of Death in silence. "Today, and now, we see a huge rise in anti-Semitism and it is precisely anti-Semitism that led to the Holocaust," Turski, 98, warned those at the ceremony. Weintraub, a 99-year-old Polish-born Swedish physician, asked for the young to "be sensitive" to intolerance and discrimination and condemned the proliferation of Nazi-inspired movements in Europe. 'Never be silent' Also speaking at the ceremony, World Jewish Congress president Ronald Lauder said the horrors of Auschwitz and Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023 were both inspired by "the age-old hatred of Jews". Anti-Semitism "had its willing supporters then, and it has them now," he said. "On January 27, 1945 when the Red Army entered these gates, the world finally saw where the step-by-step progress of anti-Semitism leads. It leads right here." "Today all of us must take a pledge to never be silent when it comes to anti-Semitism or for that matter any other hatred," Lauder said. The streets of Oswiecim were mainly deserted except for police and fleets of official cars. The camp was closed to the public and largely silent except for the fluttering of the Auschwitz Museum flags. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Britain's King Charles III and French President Emmanuel Macron and dozens of other international leaders attended the commemoration. Organisers had however decided not to include political speeches to keep the focus on the survivors. 'Responsibility of remembrance' In a statement, Zelensky said the world must unite "to prevent evil from winning". Russia's President Vladimir Putin praised the role of Soviet soldiers in ending the "total evil" of Auschwitz. Until its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a Russian delegation had always attended the ceremony but Moscow was barred again this year. Organisers said this could be the last major anniversary with such a large group of survivors. "We all know that in 10 years it will not be possible to have a large group for the 90th anniversary," Auschwitz Museum spokesman Pawel Sawicki said. "As the number of Holocaust survivors regrettably diminishes with the passage of time, the responsibility of remembrance rests far heavier on our shoulders and on those of generations yet unborn," King Charles said on a visit to Jewish community centre in Krakow on Monday. Auschwitz was created in 1940 using barracks in Oswiecim, southern Poland. Its name was Germanised into Auschwitz by the Nazis. The first 728 Polish political prisoners arrived on June 14 of that year. On January 17, 1945, as Soviet troops advanced, the Nazi SS forced 60,000 emaciated prisoners to walk west in what became known as the "Death March". From January 21-26, the Germans blew up the Birkenau gas chambers and crematoria and withdrew as Soviet troops approached. On January 27, Soviet troops found 7,000 survivors when they arrived. The day of its liberation has been designated by the United Nations as Holocaust Remembrance Day. 'Will they believe us?' Ahead of the anniversary, survivors spoke to AFP about the need to preserve the memory of what happened in the death camp and warned of rising hatred and anti-Semitism. They also expressed fears that history could repeat itself. Some 40 survivors in 15 countries told their stories, alone or surrounded by their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren -- proof of their victory over absolute evil. Julia Wallach, who is nearly 100, cannot recall the events without crying. "It is too difficult to talk about, too hard," she said. The Parisian was dragged off a lorry destined for the gas chamber in Birkenau at the last minute. But hard as it is to relive the horrors, she insisted she would continue to bear witness. "As long as I can do it, I will do it." Nearby, her granddaughter Frankie asked: "Will they believe us when we talk about this when she is not there?" 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.

Holocaust Remembrance Day: 80 years after Auschwitz liberation, survivors warn of growing anti-Semitism

US President Donald Trump stated on Monday (Jan 27) that Microsoft is in talks to acquire video-sharing platform TikTok and that he would like to see a bidding war over the app.
While speaking to the media about TikTok, the US President said that Microsoft is in talks to purchase TikTok in the country. &ldquo;I would say yes&hellip; A lot of interest in TikTok. There&rsquo;s great interest in TikTok", Trump said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-in-talks-with-multiple-people-over-buying-tiktok-8655469">US President Donald Trump in talks with multiple people over buying TikTok</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">TikTok ban in US</h2>
The US Supreme Court had earlier this month upheld a law that banned TikTok in the country due to national security concerns surrounding the Chinese-owned application's data privacy.
However, President Trump, who has credited the app with helping him engage with younger voters during his campaign, has reserved the ban temporarily and signed an executive order giving TikTok 75 days to orchestrate a sale for the app so that it is no longer Chinese-owned.
Amid these legal and political challenges, TikTok&rsquo;s popularity in the US continues to soar. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 33 per cent of US adults now use TikTok, a significant increase from just 21 per cent in 2021.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-accuses-police-of-coercing-false-testimony-in-corruption-trail-8660563">Netanyahu accuses police of coercing &lsquo;false testimony&rsquo; in corruption trail</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump on TikTok's future</h2>
The President had earlier also expressed that he would like Tesla CEO Elon Musk or Oracle Corp. Chairman Larry Ellison to take over the video-sharing platform as he did not want it to have Chinese ownership.
On Saturday, Trump said about the TikTok sale, &ldquo;Numerous people are talking to me. Very substantial people. We have a lot of interest in it, and the United States will be a big beneficiary&hellip; I'd only do it if the United States benefits.&rdquo;
Perplexity AI has also thrown its hat in the ring wherein the company has proposed a merger with TikTok's US business as well as a joint venture with the US government.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: President Trump announced Microsoft is negotiating to buy TikTok, hinting at a potential bidding war for the popular video app on January

US President Donald Trump stated on Monday (Jan 27) that Microsoft is in talks to acquire video-sharing platform TikTok and that he would like to see a bidding war over the app. While speaking to the media about TikTok, the US President said that Microsoft is in talks to purchase TikTok in the country. “I would say yes… A lot of interest in TikTok. There’s great interest in TikTok", Trump said. Also read | US President Donald Trump in talks with multiple people over buying TikTok TikTok ban in US The US Supreme Court had earlier this month upheld a law that banned TikTok in the country due to national security concerns surrounding the Chinese-owned application's data privacy. However, President Trump, who has credited the app with helping him engage with younger voters during his campaign, has reserved the ban temporarily and signed an executive order giving TikTok 75 days to orchestrate a sale for the app so that it is no longer Chinese-owned. Amid these legal and political challenges, TikTok’s popularity in the US continues to soar. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 33 per cent of US adults now use TikTok, a significant increase from just 21 per cent in 2021. Also read | Netanyahu accuses police of coercing ‘false testimony’ in corruption trail Trump on TikTok's future The President had earlier also expressed that he would like Tesla CEO Elon Musk or Oracle Corp. Chairman Larry Ellison to take over the video-sharing platform as he did not want it to have Chinese ownership. On Saturday, Trump said about the TikTok sale, “Numerous people are talking to me. Very substantial people. We have a lot of interest in it, and the United States will be a big beneficiary… I'd only do it if the United States benefits.” Perplexity AI has also thrown its hat in the ring wherein the company has proposed a merger with TikTok's US business as well as a joint venture with the US government. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says Microsoft in talks to buy TikTok, encourages bidding war

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in his corruption trial on Monday (Jan 27) and accused the police and investigators of extorting &ldquo;false testimony&rdquo; against him from key witnesses.
Netanyahu alleged that the key aspects of the case against him rested on testimony that had been illegitimately obtained from witnesses, such as former aides Nir Hefetz, Ari Harrow, and Shlomo Filber.
Meanwhile, in the previous hearings, Netanyahu and his defence attorney Amit Hadad focused on aspects of the indictment against him that, according to Netanyahu&rsquo;s testimony and Hadad&rsquo;s claims, are factually inaccurate.
Netanyahu's testimony resumed on Monday, marking his seventh day on the stand, after a brief hiatus for prostate surgery. The prime minister&rsquo;s doctor was also present at the hearing.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-jihad-releases-video-of-hostage-arbel-yehoud-held-in-gaza-8660232">Islamic Jihad releases video of hostage Arbel Yehoud held in Gaza</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Netanyahu takes stand in historic corruption trial</h2>
His testimony is part of a historic corruption trial that began in 2020, with Netanyahu facing charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery in three separate cases. The indictment against Netanyahu alleges that he had an illicit quid pro quo agreement with Walla's new site owner Shaul Elovitch, by which Walla would give Netanyahu favourable coverage in return for the prime minister approving regulatory decisions that benefited Elovitch.
At the beginning of the hearing, Netanyahu protested the judges' decision not to accede to the request of his lawyers to hold just one hearing this week due to postoperative complications and what the prime minister said was his need to deal with events in Lebanon and the hostage release process currently underway.
&ldquo;I was very disappointed by your decision&hellip; I request consideration of this reality that would be given to any person,&rdquo; Netanyahu told the judges.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-agrees-to-accept-deported-migrants-on-military-planes-averts-trade-war-with-us-8659770">Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Hefetz claims betrayal, not pressure, led to testimony against Netanyahu</h2>
Although much of the hearing focused on examples of the allegedly illicit quid pro quo agreement between Netanyahu and Elovitch, Hadad also directed Netanyahu to comment on the veracity of the key state witnesses&rsquo; testimony against him.
Hadad focused in particular on former Netanyahu-spokesperson-turned-state-witness Hefetz, whom Netanyahu castigated for having secretly recorded conversations with him in his office, and accused of having given false testimony due to pressure from the police and investigators.
Hefetz testified in 2021 that he endured harsh conditions in custody, however, he claimed that his decision to testify against Netanyahu wasn't driven by the pressure he faced, but rather by feeling abandoned by the prime minister.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-thanks-trump-for-lifting-hold-on-arms-shipment-to-israel-8656203">'Thank you for keeping your promise': Netanyahu expresses gratitude to Trump for ending hold on arms shipment</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Netanyahu says Hefetz&rsquo;s 'suffering' led to &lsquo;lies&rsquo;</h2>
In his testimony regarding Case 4000, Hefetz stated that he had coordinated contacts and meetings between Netanyahu and Elovitch to advance the allegedly unlawful scheme by which Walla gave the prime minister positive coverage in return for regulatory favours benefiting Elovitch&rsquo;s business interests.
&ldquo;[Hefetz] was not someone I trusted, I wasn&rsquo;t prepared to open up everything to him,&rdquo; Netanyahu told the court. &ldquo;There were pretty massive leaks from the office. I suspected that they came from him. It happened after he entered [his job with the prime minister].&rdquo;
Addressing the alleged physical pressure exerted on Hefetz, Netanyahu said that he had initially been angry with Hefetz for testifying against him but that &ldquo;after I saw the suffering they put him through I understood that he had to lie.&rdquo;
Netanyahu denies wrongdoing and claims, without evidence, that the charges were fabricated in a political coup led by the police and state prosecution.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in court, asserting that police and investigators coerced key witnesses to provide false statements against him.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in his corruption trial on Monday (Jan 27) and accused the police and investigators of extorting “false testimony” against him from key witnesses. Netanyahu alleged that the key aspects of the case against him rested on testimony that had been illegitimately obtained from witnesses, such as former aides Nir Hefetz, Ari Harrow, and Shlomo Filber. Meanwhile, in the previous hearings, Netanyahu and his defence attorney Amit Hadad focused on aspects of the indictment against him that, according to Netanyahu’s testimony and Hadad’s claims, are factually inaccurate. Netanyahu's testimony resumed on Monday, marking his seventh day on the stand, after a brief hiatus for prostate surgery. The prime minister’s doctor was also present at the hearing. Also read | Islamic Jihad releases video of hostage Arbel Yehoud held in Gaza Netanyahu takes stand in historic corruption trial His testimony is part of a historic corruption trial that began in 2020, with Netanyahu facing charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery in three separate cases. The indictment against Netanyahu alleges that he had an illicit quid pro quo agreement with Walla's new site owner Shaul Elovitch, by which Walla would give Netanyahu favourable coverage in return for the prime minister approving regulatory decisions that benefited Elovitch. At the beginning of the hearing, Netanyahu protested the judges' decision not to accede to the request of his lawyers to hold just one hearing this week due to postoperative complications and what the prime minister said was his need to deal with events in Lebanon and the hostage release process currently underway. “I was very disappointed by your decision… I request consideration of this reality that would be given to any person,” Netanyahu told the judges. Also read | Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants Hefetz claims betrayal, not pressure, led to testimony against Netanyahu Although much of the hearing focused on examples of the allegedly illicit quid pro quo agreement between Netanyahu and Elovitch, Hadad also directed Netanyahu to comment on the veracity of the key state witnesses’ testimony against him. Hadad focused in particular on former Netanyahu-spokesperson-turned-state-witness Hefetz, whom Netanyahu castigated for having secretly recorded conversations with him in his office, and accused of having given false testimony due to pressure from the police and investigators. Hefetz testified in 2021 that he endured harsh conditions in custody, however, he claimed that his decision to testify against Netanyahu wasn't driven by the pressure he faced, but rather by feeling abandoned by the prime minister. Also read | 'Thank you for keeping your promise': Netanyahu expresses gratitude to Trump for ending hold on arms shipment Netanyahu says Hefetz’s 'suffering' led to ‘lies’ In his testimony regarding Case 4000, Hefetz stated that he had coordinated contacts and meetings between Netanyahu and Elovitch to advance the allegedly unlawful scheme by which Walla gave the prime minister positive coverage in return for regulatory favours benefiting Elovitch’s business interests. “[Hefetz] was not someone I trusted, I wasn’t prepared to open up everything to him,” Netanyahu told the court. “There were pretty massive leaks from the office. I suspected that they came from him. It happened after he entered [his job with the prime minister].” Addressing the alleged physical pressure exerted on Hefetz, Netanyahu said that he had initially been angry with Hefetz for testifying against him but that “after I saw the suffering they put him through I understood that he had to lie.” Netanyahu denies wrongdoing and claims, without evidence, that the charges were fabricated in a political coup led by the police and state prosecution. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu accuses police of coercing ‘false testimony’ in corruption trial

Billionaire hedge fund manager Scott Bessent won Senate approval Monday to become US Treasury secretary, placing him at the forefront of implementing Donald Trump's economic agenda -&ndash; which is already triggering global jitters.
Bessent, a Wall Street veteran who was born and raised in South Carolina, has defended the Republican president's tax cutting and tariff proposals while urging efforts to secure supply chains and the dollar's global status.
On Monday, he cleared a confirmation vote with a comfortable margin of 68-29, with bipartisan support.
As Treasury chief, Bessent will have a hand in the administration's tax policies and its budget, confronting the debt limit and steering plans that could lead to fresh tariffs.&nbsp;
Mike Crapo, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, said Monday that Bessent was "committed to restoring the prosperity and opportunity" seen under Trump's leadership.
But Ron Wyden, the top Democrat on the committee, warned it was unclear that Bessent would serve as a check on Trump's economic plans, which could weigh on consumers and small businesses.
Bessent, 62, has said he would back tougher sanctions on Russian oil majors as a way to end the war in Ukraine, while signaling a hawkish approach on China.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-reinstate-service-members-dismissed-for-not-taking-covid-jab-8659818#google_vignette" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump to reinstate service members dismissed for not taking COVID jab</a>
Trump returned to the White House this month vowing lower taxes to aid Americans squeezed by high costs of living, and tariffs to pressure other countries to align on US concerns.
The president has warned of tariffs on allies and adversaries &ndash; including major trading partners Mexico and Canada on February 1.
Now all eyes are on how his Treasury chief walks the line between supporting these efforts and avoiding tensions that may roil the world economy.
At his hearing, Bessent disagreed that Trump's proposed duties on imports would be paid for domestically, noting that levies can be used in negotiations, to remedy unfair trade practices or to boost revenues.
He also took aim at government spending and high budget deficits.
He will have to grapple with Trump's promised tax cuts &ndash; alongside their consequences for the US economy &ndash; as he begins his role.
The Treasury Department has oversight across areas from federal finances to bank supervision. It also oversees US sanctions.
<h2>Family friend</h2>
Bessent is the first Senate-confirmed openly gay cabinet official in a Republican administration.
He has been based in Charleston, South Carolina, with his husband and their two children.
Bessent has known the Trump family for three decades and was friends with the president's late brother Robert, he previously said.
"I was all-in for President Trump," he said on Trump ally Roger Stone's radio show.
Bessent attended Yale University and served as chief investment officer of Soros Fund Management, the macroeconomic investment firm of liberal billionaire George Soros.
In 2015, he raised capital, including $2 billion from Soros, to start his own hedge fund.
More recently, Bessent said he had not spoken to Soros in years.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-news-am-i-allowed-to-run-again-trump-hints-at-third-presidential-term-can-he-defy-us-constitutions-two-term-limit-8659739" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit?</a>
Bessent is chief executive at Key Square Group, but has committed to resigning from the position at the hedge fund and divesting his partnership share upon confirmation.
<h2>'Only-in-America'</h2>
During his confirmation hearing, Bessent recounted taking an internship in finance &ndash; a job that came with an office pullout sofa, allowing him to live in New York rent-free.
"I've been involved in the financial markets ever since," he told lawmakers. "My life has been the only-in-America story that I am determined to preserve for future generations."
Urging for all tools to be used "to realign the economic system to better serve the interests of working Americans," Bessent has criticized "unfair distortions" in global trade.
He previously floated the idea of Trump nominating a "shadow Fed chair" to dilute the influence of Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell.
But he has since dropped the idea and stated that he supports the central bank's independence in policymaking.
"President Trump is going to make his views known, as many senators did," Bessent said in his hearing on January 16.
He added that on monetary policy, the Fed's rate-setting committee "should be independent."
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 | Scott Bessent, a Wall Street veteran who was born and raised in South Carolina, has defended the Republican president's tax cutting and tariff proposals while urging efforts to secure supply chains and the dollar's global status.

Billionaire hedge fund manager Scott Bessent won Senate approval Monday to become US Treasury secretary, placing him at the forefront of implementing Donald Trump's economic agenda -– which is already triggering global jitters. Bessent, a Wall Street veteran who was born and raised in South Carolina, has defended the Republican president's tax cutting and tariff proposals while urging efforts to secure supply chains and the dollar's global status. On Monday, he cleared a confirmation vote with a comfortable margin of 68-29, with bipartisan support. As Treasury chief, Bessent will have a hand in the administration's tax policies and its budget, confronting the debt limit and steering plans that could lead to fresh tariffs. Mike Crapo, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, said Monday that Bessent was "committed to restoring the prosperity and opportunity" seen under Trump's leadership. But Ron Wyden, the top Democrat on the committee, warned it was unclear that Bessent would serve as a check on Trump's economic plans, which could weigh on consumers and small businesses. Bessent, 62, has said he would back tougher sanctions on Russian oil majors as a way to end the war in Ukraine, while signaling a hawkish approach on China. Also read | Trump to reinstate service members dismissed for not taking COVID jab Trump returned to the White House this month vowing lower taxes to aid Americans squeezed by high costs of living, and tariffs to pressure other countries to align on US concerns. The president has warned of tariffs on allies and adversaries – including major trading partners Mexico and Canada on February 1. Now all eyes are on how his Treasury chief walks the line between supporting these efforts and avoiding tensions that may roil the world economy. At his hearing, Bessent disagreed that Trump's proposed duties on imports would be paid for domestically, noting that levies can be used in negotiations, to remedy unfair trade practices or to boost revenues. He also took aim at government spending and high budget deficits. He will have to grapple with Trump's promised tax cuts – alongside their consequences for the US economy – as he begins his role. The Treasury Department has oversight across areas from federal finances to bank supervision. It also oversees US sanctions. Family friend Bessent is the first Senate-confirmed openly gay cabinet official in a Republican administration. He has been based in Charleston, South Carolina, with his husband and their two children. Bessent has known the Trump family for three decades and was friends with the president's late brother Robert, he previously said. "I was all-in for President Trump," he said on Trump ally Roger Stone's radio show. Bessent attended Yale University and served as chief investment officer of Soros Fund Management, the macroeconomic investment firm of liberal billionaire George Soros. In 2015, he raised capital, including $2 billion from Soros, to start his own hedge fund. More recently, Bessent said he had not spoken to Soros in years. Also read | 'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit? Bessent is chief executive at Key Square Group, but has committed to resigning from the position at the hedge fund and divesting his partnership share upon confirmation. 'Only-in-America' During his confirmation hearing, Bessent recounted taking an internship in finance – a job that came with an office pullout sofa, allowing him to live in New York rent-free. "I've been involved in the financial markets ever since," he told lawmakers. "My life has been the only-in-America story that I am determined to preserve for future generations." Urging for all tools to be used "to realign the economic system to better serve the interests of working Americans," Bessent has criticized "unfair distortions" in global trade. He previously floated the idea of Trump nominating a "shadow Fed chair" to dilute the influence of Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell. But he has since dropped the idea and stated that he supports the central bank's independence in policymaking. "President Trump is going to make his views known, as many senators did," Bessent said in his hearing on January 16. He added that on monetary policy, the Fed's rate-setting committee "should be independent." 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.

Billionaire investor Bessent confirmed as Trump's treasury chief

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist organisation released a video of German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehoud on Monday (Jan 27) held in the Gaza Strip.
In the video, the young woman assures her family that she is doing well and will return home "like the other women". Yehoud's release has been announced for Thursday as part of a new ceasefire agreement in the Gaza war.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-release-six-hostages-including-arbel-yehud-israel-says-gazans-can-now-return-home-8656726">Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel yehoud</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Isreal denounces release of videos as &lsquo;psychological warfare&rsquo;</h2>
Palestinian extremist group Hamas has a history of releasing videos of hostages in their custody, which Israel denounces as psychological warfare.
According to the ceasefire deal, Yehoud should have been released over the weekend, as she is a civilian, however, Hamas instead released four IDF surveillance soldiers: Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Liri Albag.
Israel announced Sunday night that the dispute over Yehoud&rsquo;s release had been resolved, with the terror group set to release six hostages in two batches this week, including Yehoud and the last remaining surveillance soldier, Agam Berger.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-extends-ceasefire-with-israel-till-feb-18-even-as-it-accuses-tel-aviv-of-killing-22-civilians-8656608">Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Yehoud was abducted on October 7, 2023</h2>
Yehoud, 29, was abducted along with her boyfriend from their home in the Israeli kibbutz of Nir Oz during the devastating October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas and other militants.
Her brother, who also lived in the community near the Gaza Strip, was killed during the terrorist attack.
<h2 dir="ltr">18 hostages alive, 8 dead</h2>
Israel said Monday that Hamas finally sent a list detailing the conditions of the remaining hostages, which showed that 18 of the 26 remaining hostages still to be freed are alive and eight are dead, but did not specify other details.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-blocks-gazans-from-entering-north-until-hostage-arbel-yehuds-release-is-arranged-8656294">Israel blocks Gazans from entering north until hostage Arbel yehoud's release is arranged</a>
Government spokesman David Mencer conveyed the Hamas information to journalists on Monday.
As part of the initial phase of the agreement, 33 hostages are being released, which includes the seven hostages who have already been freed since the deal took effect on January 19.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Palestinian Islamic Jihad released a video of German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehud in Gaza, raising international concerns over the hostage situation and regional stability.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist organisation released a video of German-Israeli hostage Arbel Yehoud on Monday (Jan 27) held in the Gaza Strip. In the video, the young woman assures her family that she is doing well and will return home "like the other women". Yehoud's release has been announced for Thursday as part of a new ceasefire agreement in the Gaza war. Also read | Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel yehoud Isreal denounces release of videos as ‘psychological warfare’ Palestinian extremist group Hamas has a history of releasing videos of hostages in their custody, which Israel denounces as psychological warfare. According to the ceasefire deal, Yehoud should have been released over the weekend, as she is a civilian, however, Hamas instead released four IDF surveillance soldiers: Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Liri Albag. Israel announced Sunday night that the dispute over Yehoud’s release had been resolved, with the terror group set to release six hostages in two batches this week, including Yehoud and the last remaining surveillance soldier, Agam Berger. Also read | Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18 Yehoud was abducted on October 7, 2023 Yehoud, 29, was abducted along with her boyfriend from their home in the Israeli kibbutz of Nir Oz during the devastating October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel carried out by Hamas and other militants. Her brother, who also lived in the community near the Gaza Strip, was killed during the terrorist attack. 18 hostages alive, 8 dead Israel said Monday that Hamas finally sent a list detailing the conditions of the remaining hostages, which showed that 18 of the 26 remaining hostages still to be freed are alive and eight are dead, but did not specify other details. Also read | Israel blocks Gazans from entering north until hostage Arbel yehoud's release is arranged Government spokesman David Mencer conveyed the Hamas information to journalists on Monday. As part of the initial phase of the agreement, 33 hostages are being released, which includes the seven hostages who have already been freed since the deal took effect on January 19. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic Jihad release video of hostage Arbel Yehoud held in Gaza

The policy director of Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, the think tank of Europe's Largest Party, the European People's Party (EPP) has called for the need to have skilled Indians in the European Union. Speaking to Wion's Sidhant Sibal in Brussels, Dr Peter Hefele said, 'We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground'.
The EPP is the largest political party in the European Parliament, with members from various national centre-right parties across EU member states. Its think tank, Wilfried Martens Centre, named after the former EPP president, aims to advance centre-right thought, contributing to EU and national policy formulation.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auschwitz-survivors-mark-80th-anniversary-holocaust-remembrance-day-auschwitz-commemoration-event-olaf-scholz-king-charles-8658708" rel="dofollow">'We&rsquo;ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation</a>
Dr Hefele pointed out that "there are a lot of topics where India and European Union can work much better together" &amp; hoped that there "will be progress in the trade issue, which has unfortunately lasted already way too long." India and the EU have been negotiating FTA talks for years now, but not much headway has been made. Last week Indian trade minister Goyal visited Belgium &amp; it is hoped that it will provide much-needed impetus to talks.
The policy director also spoke about China &amp; impact of the Trump Presidency on Europe.
<h2>Full interview with Dr Peter Hefele</h2>
 Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Donald Trump's presidency impacting European politics? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we had a lot of discussion before the final elections. But we know a lot of homework has to be done, regardless of who is ruling in Washington, maybe defence, our economic revitalisation, and relations with other nations so they are not impacted always by the United States. We have to go on with India, for example, regardless of what is happening in the United States. The same goes for Africa or Latin America.
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<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/INTV_2801_SID_PETER_HEFELE_IV/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/INTV_2801_SID_PETER_HEFELE_IV.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=266&amp;tags=europe, india, european union, dr peter hefele," title="Think tank of Europe's largest political party, calls for more skilled Indian professionals in EU " id="PL_iframe_block-m6g28qz8-y4egq0v7-skks8v3f"></iframe>
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Sidhant Sibal: But Donald Trump has essentially said that he will impose tariffs. And of course, there is the question of Greenland as well. We know that he has been staking claim to Greenland, and there was a conversation between Trump &amp; Denmark's PM. So how do you see these challenges when it comes to the presidency of Donald Trump? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we know how Trump is negotiating. He puts a lot of demands on the ground. The issue is, what can put Europe on the table? And I think a lot of things which Europe is still interested in. So we should avoid these huge conflicts. But well, we have to deliver something. Trade is an issue, opening European markets, and doing more for our defence. That's what the United States, at the very end, wants now.
 Sidhant Sibal: So coming to India, you mentioned about India, you are someone who is leading a think tank with a party which is one of the largest parties in the European Union. So essentially, how do you see a relationship between the European Union and India in terms of how it can be a factor of stability in an increasingly geopolitical world? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, there are a lot of topics where India and the European Union can work much better together. I hope that there will be progress in the trade issue, which unfortunately lasted already way too long. Security is an issue, not on a large scale, but in a lot of the industrial sectors, for example, and in certain regions to create stability, mainly in the Indo-Pacific region. Science cooperation is a big issue that is an under-exploited issue. We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground, also as a fight of very skilled migration. That is an issue, again, which should be dealt with and must be dealt with on the European level.
Sidhant Sibal: How much China is an issue in terms of the European Union's internal politics and an issue for Europe? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, China is everywhere. Whatever you discuss, somehow China is in it. It is in trade and security. It has a role in the conflict, for example, Russia and Ukraine. It's in the trans-Atlantic relations because these are impacted by the China-US relations. There's a lot of uncertainty. Europe has to find its own way, not following only the United States' interests, but it also has to make clear what our interests are. We have also to protect our markets against unfair competition.
Sidhant Sibal: My final question, you mentioned about immigration. You mentioned about skilled Indians as well. So essentially, how do you see that issue as well? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we need immigration, that is definitely, but really skilled immigration. India is an interesting partner in this respect. It should not always be a one-sided immigration. I think what we call is sometimes circular migration. So this is another new way of migration, and we need to make progress on the ground. A lot of these challenges are not on the European level. It's on the very local level. It's administrative issues and financial issues. These are the things we have to focus on now.

Dr Hefele pointed out that "there are a lot of topics where India and European Union can work much better together" & hoped that there "will be progress in the trade issue, which has unfortunately lasted already way too long."

The policy director of Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, the think tank of Europe's Largest Party, the European People's Party (EPP) has called for the need to have skilled Indians in the European Union. Speaking to Wion's Sidhant Sibal in Brussels, Dr Peter Hefele said, 'We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground'. The EPP is the largest political party in the European Parliament, with members from various national centre-right parties across EU member states. Its think tank, Wilfried Martens Centre, named after the former EPP president, aims to advance centre-right thought, contributing to EU and national policy formulation. Also Read: 'We’ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation Dr Hefele pointed out that "there are a lot of topics where India and European Union can work much better together" & hoped that there "will be progress in the trade issue, which has unfortunately lasted already way too long." India and the EU have been negotiating FTA talks for years now, but not much headway has been made. Last week Indian trade minister Goyal visited Belgium & it is hoped that it will provide much-needed impetus to talks. The policy director also spoke about China & impact of the Trump Presidency on Europe. Full interview with Dr Peter Hefele Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Donald Trump's presidency impacting European politics? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we had a lot of discussion before the final elections. But we know a lot of homework has to be done, regardless of who is ruling in Washington, maybe defence, our economic revitalisation, and relations with other nations so they are not impacted always by the United States. We have to go on with India, for example, regardless of what is happening in the United States. The same goes for Africa or Latin America. Sidhant Sibal: But Donald Trump has essentially said that he will impose tariffs. And of course, there is the question of Greenland as well. We know that he has been staking claim to Greenland, and there was a conversation between Trump & Denmark's PM. So how do you see these challenges when it comes to the presidency of Donald Trump? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we know how Trump is negotiating. He puts a lot of demands on the ground. The issue is, what can put Europe on the table? And I think a lot of things which Europe is still interested in. So we should avoid these huge conflicts. But well, we have to deliver something. Trade is an issue, opening European markets, and doing more for our defence. That's what the United States, at the very end, wants now. Sidhant Sibal: So coming to India, you mentioned about India, you are someone who is leading a think tank with a party which is one of the largest parties in the European Union. So essentially, how do you see a relationship between the European Union and India in terms of how it can be a factor of stability in an increasingly geopolitical world? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, there are a lot of topics where India and the European Union can work much better together. I hope that there will be progress in the trade issue, which unfortunately lasted already way too long. Security is an issue, not on a large scale, but in a lot of the industrial sectors, for example, and in certain regions to create stability, mainly in the Indo-Pacific region. Science cooperation is a big issue that is an under-exploited issue. We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground, also as a fight of very skilled migration. That is an issue, again, which should be dealt with and must be dealt with on the European level. Sidhant Sibal: How much China is an issue in terms of the European Union's internal politics and an issue for Europe? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, China is everywhere. Whatever you discuss, somehow China is in it. It is in trade and security. It has a role in the conflict, for example, Russia and Ukraine. It's in the trans-Atlantic relations because these are impacted by the China-US relations. There's a lot of uncertainty. Europe has to find its own way, not following only the United States' interests, but it also has to make clear what our interests are. We have also to protect our markets against unfair competition. Sidhant Sibal: My final question, you mentioned about immigration. You mentioned about skilled Indians as well. So essentially, how do you see that issue as well? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we need immigration, that is definitely, but really skilled immigration. India is an interesting partner in this respect. It should not always be a one-sided immigration. I think what we call is sometimes circular migration. So this is another new way of migration, and we need to make progress on the ground. A lot of these challenges are not on the European level. It's on the very local level. It's administrative issues and financial issues. These are the things we have to focus on now.

Think tank of Europe's largest political party, EPP, calls for more skilled Indian professionals in EU

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 27) once again sparked debate over the possibility of serving a third term as president, despite the US Constitution's two-term limit.&nbsp;
In other news, Colombia sent two military aircraft to repatriate migrants from the United States after being forced to back down in a blazing row over deportations with Trump.
Meanwhile, Trump will sign an executive order to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine jabs.
Click on the headlines to read more:
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-news-am-i-allowed-to-run-again-trump-hints-at-third-presidential-term-can-he-defy-us-constitutions-two-term-limit-8659739">'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/zWAV2lOF52743yTX0HiC.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he walks on the South Lawn of the White House on January 27, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump returns to Washington after visits to disaster sites in North Carolina and California, and spending the weekend in Florida. Photograph: (AFP) " style="width: 1280px;">
US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 27) once again sparked debate over the possibility of serving a third term as president, despite the US Constitution's two-term limit. Speaking in Miami, Florida, at an event for GOP Members of the US Congress, the Republican president seemed to toy with the idea and commented that he was "not 100 per cent sure" if he was barred from running again.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-agrees-to-accept-deported-migrants-on-military-planes-averts-trade-war-with-us-8659770">Colombia backs down, sends plane for deported migrants; averts trade war with US</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/2IczrLKOfFzxDhEJFPOF.webp" alt=" File photos of Colombian President Petro and US President Trump Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Colombia on Monday (Jan 27) sent two military aircraft to repatriate migrants from the United States after being forced to back down in a blazing row over deportations with President Donald Trump.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-reinstate-service-members-dismissed-for-not-taking-covid-jab-8659818">Trump to reinstate service members dismissed for not taking COVID jab</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/55CbxnLeZRq0i1NGlk6k.jpg" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine jabs, according to the White House.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-anti-terrorism-court-rejects-former-pm-imran-khans-plea-for-acquittal-in-may-9-general-headquarters-ghq-attack-case-pakistan-tehreek-e-insaf-pti-founder-8659851">Pakistan Anti-Terrorism Court rejects Imran Khan's plea for acquital in May 9 attack case</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/A7l7hYWCtZsCU38PdV1G.png" alt=" Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
Pakistan Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Monday (Jan 27) rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's plea for acquittal in the May 9 General Headquarters (GHQ) attack case.
Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine conflict exposes EU's strategic weakness
<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/2801_wion_nato_830am/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2801_wion_nato_830am.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=208&amp;tags=russia, ukraine, russia ukraine war, russia vs ukraine, ukraine war," title="Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine conflict exposes EU's strategic weakness " id="PL_iframe_block-m6fzcnmm-mujx9gai-yyowo0dr"></iframe>
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World: Begin your day informed with WION's Morning News Brief, delivering top headlines, insightful analysis, and global perspectives to keep you updated every morning.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 27) once again sparked debate over the possibility of serving a third term as president, despite the US Constitution's two-term limit. In other news, Colombia sent two military aircraft to repatriate migrants from the United States after being forced to back down in a blazing row over deportations with Trump. Meanwhile, Trump will sign an executive order to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine jabs. Click on the headlines to read more: 'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit? US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 27) once again sparked debate over the possibility of serving a third term as president, despite the US Constitution's two-term limit. Speaking in Miami, Florida, at an event for GOP Members of the US Congress, the Republican president seemed to toy with the idea and commented that he was "not 100 per cent sure" if he was barred from running again. Colombia backs down, sends plane for deported migrants; averts trade war with US Colombia on Monday (Jan 27) sent two military aircraft to repatriate migrants from the United States after being forced to back down in a blazing row over deportations with President Donald Trump. Trump to reinstate service members dismissed for not taking COVID jab US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine jabs, according to the White House. Pakistan Anti-Terrorism Court rejects Imran Khan's plea for acquital in May 9 attack case Pakistan Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Monday (Jan 27) rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's plea for acquittal in the May 9 General Headquarters (GHQ) attack case. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine conflict exposes EU's strategic weakness

Morning news brief: Trump hints at third presidential term; Colombia sends plane for deported migrants, and more

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine jabs, according to the White House.
&ldquo;The Executive Order directs the Secretary of Defense to reinstate all members of the military (active and reserve) who were discharged for refusing the COVID vaccine and who request to be reinstated,&rdquo; Fox News reported, citing the White House fact sheet.
Trump, 78, is preparing to bring back over 8,000 US military members to their previous rank with providing back pay and full benefits, fulfilling his 2024 campaign promise.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-officials-linked-to-his-criminal-cases-launches-investigations-into-january-6-prosecutors-investigate-the-investigators-8659646" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump's retribution? Dozens involved in investigating Trump fired; Jan 6 prosecutors on edge</a>
During a campaign speech last year, Trump announced that he will reinstate service members who were dismissed for not taking the COVID-19 jab, adding that they would get back pay along with an apology from the government.
Trump vowed to make the move during his inaugural address on January 20.
&ldquo;This week I will reinstate any service members who were unjustly expelled from our military for objecting to the COVID vaccine mandate, with full back pay,&rdquo; the president said during the speech.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-news-am-i-allowed-to-run-again-trump-hints-at-third-presidential-term-can-he-defy-us-constitutions-two-term-limit-8659739" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit?</a>
<h2>Reinstatement order</h2>
The order will include active-duty or reserve service members who were booted out for not taking the COVID-19 vaccine made mandatory by the Biden administration between 2021 and 2023.
&ldquo;From 2021 to 2023, the Biden Administration and former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin discharged over 8,000 troops solely due to their COVID-19 vaccination status,&rdquo; the fact sheet stated. &ldquo;After the vaccine mandate was repealed in 2023, only 43 of the more than the 8,000 troops dismissed elected to return to service under the Biden Administration and Secretary Austin.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-iron-dome-for-america-trump-executive-order-us-missile-defence-upgrade-8659528" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade</a>
<h2>Defense Secretary backs Trump</h2>
Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the same pledge during his confirmation hearings, saying that he backs Trump&rsquo;s promise.
&ldquo;Today there are more executive orders coming that we fully support &mdash; on removing DEI inside the Pentagon, reinstating troops who were pushed out because of COVID mandates, Iron Dome of America,&rdquo; Hegseth told reporters outside the Pentagon on Monday (Jan 27).
Watch | Indian PM Modi speaks to US President Donald Trump over phone
<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/2801_wion_modi_730am/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2801_wion_modi_730am.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=101&amp;tags=india, pm modi, us, donald trump, phone call," title="Indian PM Modi speaks to US President Donald Trump over phone " id="PL_iframe_block-m6fxyxc3-ed9owaoh-rei030gd"></iframe>
&ldquo;This is happening quickly, and as the secretary of defense, it&rsquo;s an honor to salute smartly &hellip; [and] to ensure these orders are complied with,&rdquo; he added.
The new president has been signing a barrage of orders since he assumed the office last week.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The order will include active-duty or reserve service members who were booted out for not taking the COVID-19 vaccine made mandatory by the Biden administration between 2021 and 2023.

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine jabs, according to the White House. “The Executive Order directs the Secretary of Defense to reinstate all members of the military (active and reserve) who were discharged for refusing the COVID vaccine and who request to be reinstated,” Fox News reported, citing the White House fact sheet. Trump, 78, is preparing to bring back over 8,000 US military members to their previous rank with providing back pay and full benefits, fulfilling his 2024 campaign promise. Also read | Trump's retribution? Dozens involved in investigating Trump fired; Jan 6 prosecutors on edge During a campaign speech last year, Trump announced that he will reinstate service members who were dismissed for not taking the COVID-19 jab, adding that they would get back pay along with an apology from the government. Trump vowed to make the move during his inaugural address on January 20. “This week I will reinstate any service members who were unjustly expelled from our military for objecting to the COVID vaccine mandate, with full back pay,” the president said during the speech. Also read | 'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit? Reinstatement order The order will include active-duty or reserve service members who were booted out for not taking the COVID-19 vaccine made mandatory by the Biden administration between 2021 and 2023. “From 2021 to 2023, the Biden Administration and former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin discharged over 8,000 troops solely due to their COVID-19 vaccination status,” the fact sheet stated. “After the vaccine mandate was repealed in 2023, only 43 of the more than the 8,000 troops dismissed elected to return to service under the Biden Administration and Secretary Austin.” Also read | Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade Defense Secretary backs Trump Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the same pledge during his confirmation hearings, saying that he backs Trump’s promise. “Today there are more executive orders coming that we fully support — on removing DEI inside the Pentagon, reinstating troops who were pushed out because of COVID mandates, Iron Dome of America,” Hegseth told reporters outside the Pentagon on Monday (Jan 27). Watch | Indian PM Modi speaks to US President Donald Trump over phone “This is happening quickly, and as the secretary of defense, it’s an honor to salute smartly … [and] to ensure these orders are complied with,” he added. The new president has been signing a barrage of orders since he assumed the office last week. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to reinstate service members dismissed for not taking COVID jab

Colombia has walked back from the brink of a damaging trade war with the United States, reaching an agreement on accepting deported migrants being returned on military planes, after a flurry of threats from President Donald Trump that included steep tariffs.
The spat erupted on Sunday (Jan 26) when President Gustavo Petro barred two military planes carrying Colombians deported from the US from landing.&nbsp;
The Trump administration responded by threatening to slap punitive tariffs on Colombian exports to the US.
Also read | Colombia agreed to 'unrestricted acceptance' of immigrants who entered US illegally: White House
<h2 dir="ltr">Colombia reverses course after Trump threatens tariffs</h2>
President Petro initially threatened to impose tariffs on US goods in retaliation for the US deporting migrants to Colombia. However, the White House later announced that Colombia had backed down and agreed to accept the migrants, including those arriving on US military planes, without any restrictions or delays.
Colombia said Sunday evening it had agreed to &ldquo;all of President Trump&rsquo;s terms,&rdquo; including the &ldquo;unrestricted acceptance&rdquo; of immigrants who entered the US illegally after two US military planes carrying deportees were blocked from entering the country.
&ldquo;We will continue to receive Colombians and Colombian women who return as deportees, guaranteeing them decent conditions as citizens subject to rights,&rdquo; Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo said in a televised statement. He added that US deportation flights had resumed, and the Colombian presidential plane was being prepared to assist in repatriating citizens.
Also read | Trump, Petro lock horns in tariff war: US and Colombia impose 25% tariff on each other&rsquo;s goods
<h2 dir="ltr">White House lauded agreement with Colombia</h2>
The White House hailed the agreement with Colombia as a victory for Trump's hard-line approach after the countries' two leaders exchanged threats on Sunday on social media.
&ldquo;Today&rsquo;s events make clear to the world that America is respected again. President Trump will continue to protect our nation&rsquo;s sovereignty fiercely, and he expects all other nations of the world to fully cooperate in accepting the deportation of their citizens illegally present in the United States,&rdquo; the White House said in a statement.
The announcement ended a tumultuous weekend that threatened to raise coffee prices for American consumers and impact hundreds of thousands of Colombian workers. It&rsquo;s also the first time Trump took major action against another country over his immigration policy since he took office last week.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: The spat erupted on Sunday (Jan 26) when President Gustavo Petro barred two military planes carrying Colombians deported from the US from landing. 


Colombia has walked back from the brink of a damaging trade war with the United States, reaching an agreement on accepting deported migrants being returned on military planes, after a flurry of threats from President Donald Trump that included steep tariffs. The spat erupted on Sunday (Jan 26) when President Gustavo Petro barred two military planes carrying Colombians deported from the US from landing. The Trump administration responded by threatening to slap punitive tariffs on Colombian exports to the US. Also read | Colombia agreed to 'unrestricted acceptance' of immigrants who entered US illegally: White House Colombia reverses course after Trump threatens tariffs President Petro initially threatened to impose tariffs on US goods in retaliation for the US deporting migrants to Colombia. However, the White House later announced that Colombia had backed down and agreed to accept the migrants, including those arriving on US military planes, without any restrictions or delays. Colombia said Sunday evening it had agreed to “all of President Trump’s terms,” including the “unrestricted acceptance” of immigrants who entered the US illegally after two US military planes carrying deportees were blocked from entering the country. “We will continue to receive Colombians and Colombian women who return as deportees, guaranteeing them decent conditions as citizens subject to rights,” Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo said in a televised statement. He added that US deportation flights had resumed, and the Colombian presidential plane was being prepared to assist in repatriating citizens. Also read | Trump, Petro lock horns in tariff war: US and Colombia impose 25% tariff on each other’s goods White House lauded agreement with Colombia The White House hailed the agreement with Colombia as a victory for Trump's hard-line approach after the countries' two leaders exchanged threats on Sunday on social media. “Today’s events make clear to the world that America is respected again. President Trump will continue to protect our nation’s sovereignty fiercely, and he expects all other nations of the world to fully cooperate in accepting the deportation of their citizens illegally present in the United States,” the White House said in a statement. The announcement ended a tumultuous weekend that threatened to raise coffee prices for American consumers and impact hundreds of thousands of Colombian workers. It’s also the first time Trump took major action against another country over his immigration policy since he took office last week. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia averts trade war with US after agreeing to accept deported migrants

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 27) once again sparked debate over the possibility of serving a third term as president, despite the US Constitution's two-term limit. Speaking in Miami, Florida, at an event for GOP Members of the US Congress, the Republican president seemed to toy with the idea and commented that he was "not 100 per cent sure" if he was barred from running again. &nbsp;
<h2>Funds ready for next campaign</h2>
Addressing members of his Republican party, Trump suggested that he could run for the next Presidential elections in 2028 and revealed that he has already raised money to do that.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-officials-linked-to-his-criminal-cases-launches-investigations-into-january-6-prosecutors-investigate-the-investigators-8659646">Trump's retribution? Jan 6 prosecutors hire lawyers as Trump DoJ launches 'special project' to investigate them</a>
"I have raised a lot of money for the next race that I assume I can&rsquo;t use for myself. But I am not a 100 per cent sure, because I think I am not allowed to run again. Am I allowed to run again?" he said with a grin, drawing laughter from the crowd.&nbsp;
Turning to House Republican Leader Mike Johnson, Trump quipped, "I'm not sure, am I allowed to run again? Mike? I better not get you involved in that argument."
<h2>What does the US Constitution say about this?</h2>
The US Constitution stipulates 'Term Limits for the Presidency' and strictly limits presidents to two terms.
The 22nd Amendment to the US Constitution says, "No person shall be elected to the Office of the President more than twice". The amendment was ratified in 1951 in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency during the mid-20th century.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-iron-dome-for-america-trump-executive-order-us-missile-defence-upgrade-8659528">Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade</a>
<h2>Can Trump defy the US Constitution?</h2>
As per ABC News, even if Trump tries to defy the constitutional rules, he would almost certainly be universally rebuffed by the courts and election officials. &nbsp;
<h2>Testing the boundaries of his power</h2>
The remarks follow Trump's return to office after becoming only the second president in US history to serve two non-consecutive terms.&nbsp;
Despite the US Constitution's strict limit on presidential terms, Trump has often dropped hints&mdash;sometimes in jest, sometimes provocatively&mdash;about extending his stay in the White House.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-shake-up-us-military-executive-orders-news-today-transgender-troops-dei-initiatives-8659509">Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives</a>
During a rally in Nevada last week, he said, "It will be the greatest honour in my life to serve not once, but twice -- or three times or four times," followed by a laugh and cheers from his supporters.
Before that, in November, while addressing House Republicans shortly after his election win, Trump infamously said: "I suspect I won't be running again unless you say, 'He's good, we got to figure something else.'" &nbsp;
During his campaign, in July, he told conservative Christians: "Get out and vote. Just this time... Four more years, it'll be fixed, it'll be fine, you won&rsquo;t have to vote anymore."
Watch | PM Modi Speaks To US President Donald Trump, Congratulates Him On Historic Win
<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/2701_wion_modi_10pm/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2701_wion_modi_10pm.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=98&amp;tags=TRUMP, MODI, WION" title="PM Modi Speaks To US President Donald Trump, Congratulates Him On Historic Win" id="PL_iframe_block-m6fwlbsz-rcn6jeyh-7yqaw0xj"></iframe>
<h2>A push for change</h2>
Adding fuel to the speculation, a Republican lawmaker last week introduced a super-long-shot resolution in the House to amend the Constitution and allow Trump to seek a third term.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | The US Constitution's 22nd Amendment strictly limits presidents to two terms, posing a significant legal barrier to Trump's musings of a third term.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 27) once again sparked debate over the possibility of serving a third term as president, despite the US Constitution's two-term limit. Speaking in Miami, Florida, at an event for GOP Members of the US Congress, the Republican president seemed to toy with the idea and commented that he was "not 100 per cent sure" if he was barred from running again. Funds ready for next campaign Addressing members of his Republican party, Trump suggested that he could run for the next Presidential elections in 2028 and revealed that he has already raised money to do that. Also read | Trump's retribution? Jan 6 prosecutors hire lawyers as Trump DoJ launches 'special project' to investigate them "I have raised a lot of money for the next race that I assume I can’t use for myself. But I am not a 100 per cent sure, because I think I am not allowed to run again. Am I allowed to run again?" he said with a grin, drawing laughter from the crowd. Turning to House Republican Leader Mike Johnson, Trump quipped, "I'm not sure, am I allowed to run again? Mike? I better not get you involved in that argument." What does the US Constitution say about this? The US Constitution stipulates 'Term Limits for the Presidency' and strictly limits presidents to two terms. The 22nd Amendment to the US Constitution says, "No person shall be elected to the Office of the President more than twice". The amendment was ratified in 1951 in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency during the mid-20th century. Also read | Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade Can Trump defy the US Constitution? As per ABC News, even if Trump tries to defy the constitutional rules, he would almost certainly be universally rebuffed by the courts and election officials. Testing the boundaries of his power The remarks follow Trump's return to office after becoming only the second president in US history to serve two non-consecutive terms. Despite the US Constitution's strict limit on presidential terms, Trump has often dropped hints—sometimes in jest, sometimes provocatively—about extending his stay in the White House. Also read | Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives During a rally in Nevada last week, he said, "It will be the greatest honour in my life to serve not once, but twice -- or three times or four times," followed by a laugh and cheers from his supporters. Before that, in November, while addressing House Republicans shortly after his election win, Trump infamously said: "I suspect I won't be running again unless you say, 'He's good, we got to figure something else.'" During his campaign, in July, he told conservative Christians: "Get out and vote. Just this time... Four more years, it'll be fixed, it'll be fine, you won’t have to vote anymore." Watch | PM Modi Speaks To US President Donald Trump, Congratulates Him On Historic Win A push for change Adding fuel to the speculation, a Republican lawmaker last week introduced a super-long-shot resolution in the House to amend the Constitution and allow Trump to seek a third term. (With inputs from agencies)

'Am I allowed to run again': Trump hints at third presidential term. Can he defy US Constitution's two-term limit?

More than a dozen officials involved in criminal investigations into US President Donald Trump have been fired, suggest reports citing sources familiar with the situation.&nbsp;
<h2>Why were they fired?</h2>
Acting Attorney General James McHenry in a letter informed fired officials that they cannot be "trusted" to "faithfully" implement Trump's agenda.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-iron-dome-for-america-trump-executive-order-us-missile-defence-upgrade-8659528">Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade</a>
McHenry wrote, "You played a significant role in prosecuting President Trump. The proper functioning of government critically depends on the trust superior officials place in their subordinates&hellip; Given your significant role in prosecuting the President, I do not believe that the leadership of the Department can trust you to assist in implementing the President&rsquo;s agenda faithfully." &nbsp;
<h2>'Investigate the investigators'</h2>
The firings coincide with steps taken by the Trump administration to investigate prosecutors who oversaw the criminal cases against the January 6 criminal case that Trump recently pardoned. These actions are in line with the Republican's campaign pledge to seek retribution.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-shake-up-us-military-executive-orders-news-today-transgender-troops-dei-initiatives-8659509">Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives</a>
Interim US Attorney for Washington, DC, Ed Martin, has initiated a review of obstruction charges brought under US Code 1512(c) against Capitol rioters, reports CNN. Some of these charges were tossed by a Supreme Court ruling last year. &nbsp;
In an internal memo issued on Monday, Martin described the initiative as a "special project," and requested the attorneys to submit "all information you have related to the use of 1512 charges, including all files, documents, notes, emails, and other information". The materials will be reviewed, and a report is due by Friday. The investigation extends to former prosecutors who have since left the Department of Justice (DOJ). &nbsp;
"Obviously the use was a great failure of our office &ndash; s. ct. decision &ndash; and we need to get to the bottom of it," Martin wrote, referencing the Supreme Court decision that limited the power of federal prosecutors to pursue obstruction charges against the January 6 rioters. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/selena-gomez-breaks-down-in-tears-over-trumps-immigration-crackdown-deletes-video-later-8659468">'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown</a>
<h2>Concerns of retribution</h2>
Prosecutors connected to January 6 cases told CNN that they were concerned that Trump's DOJ may be moving to "investigate the investigators."
A person involved in the January 6 cases told CNN the situation is unsettling, and that it was unclear whether the investigation could lead to criminal or civil charges. In light of the uncertainty, several prosecutors are reportedly starting to hire their own lawyers for their defence. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Prosecutors involved in January cases express concerns over potential retribution, with some hiring lawyers as Trump's DOJ investigates their previous actions.

More than a dozen officials involved in criminal investigations into US President Donald Trump have been fired, suggest reports citing sources familiar with the situation. Why were they fired? Acting Attorney General James McHenry in a letter informed fired officials that they cannot be "trusted" to "faithfully" implement Trump's agenda. Also read | Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade McHenry wrote, "You played a significant role in prosecuting President Trump. The proper functioning of government critically depends on the trust superior officials place in their subordinates… Given your significant role in prosecuting the President, I do not believe that the leadership of the Department can trust you to assist in implementing the President’s agenda faithfully." 'Investigate the investigators' The firings coincide with steps taken by the Trump administration to investigate prosecutors who oversaw the criminal cases against the January 6 criminal case that Trump recently pardoned. These actions are in line with the Republican's campaign pledge to seek retribution. Also read | Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives Interim US Attorney for Washington, DC, Ed Martin, has initiated a review of obstruction charges brought under US Code 1512(c) against Capitol rioters, reports CNN. Some of these charges were tossed by a Supreme Court ruling last year. In an internal memo issued on Monday, Martin described the initiative as a "special project," and requested the attorneys to submit "all information you have related to the use of 1512 charges, including all files, documents, notes, emails, and other information". The materials will be reviewed, and a report is due by Friday. The investigation extends to former prosecutors who have since left the Department of Justice (DOJ). "Obviously the use was a great failure of our office – s. ct. decision – and we need to get to the bottom of it," Martin wrote, referencing the Supreme Court decision that limited the power of federal prosecutors to pursue obstruction charges against the January 6 rioters. Also read | 'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown Concerns of retribution Prosecutors connected to January 6 cases told CNN that they were concerned that Trump's DOJ may be moving to "investigate the investigators." A person involved in the January 6 cases told CNN the situation is unsettling, and that it was unclear whether the investigation could lead to criminal or civil charges. In light of the uncertainty, several prosecutors are reportedly starting to hire their own lawyers for their defence. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's retribution? Dozens involved in investigating Trump fired; Jan 6 prosecutors on edge

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> is planning to sign an executive order that would begin the process of creating a "next generation" missile defence system to protect the United States from threats posed by ballistic missiles and other long-range attacks.
"The threat of attack by ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles remains a catastrophic threat facing the United States," states a White House document cited by CNN about the proposed order.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-to-shake-up-us-military-executive-orders-news-today-transgender-troops-dei-initiatives-8659509" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives</a>
The order outlines plans for creating an advanced defence system, similar to Israel&rsquo;s Iron Dome, which was developed in partnership with the US. Iron Dome is designed to counter a range of threats, including drones, rockets, and cruise missiles.
<h2>Why does the US need an Iron Dome?</h2>
The initiative seeks to speed up the development and deployment of advanced systems capable of detecting, intercepting, and neutralising incoming missiles, with provisions to prevent such attacks before they are launched. 
A fact sheet on the executive order describes this next-generation defence shield as a safeguard against "catastrophic threats," though no such weapons have been used against US territory in modern warfare.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/selena-gomez-breaks-down-in-tears-over-trumps-immigration-crackdown-deletes-video-later-8659468" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown</a>
The document also criticises existing homeland missile defence policies, adding that they focus primarily on countering threats from rogue nations or accidental missile launches. The president has said that the new system "will be made all in the USA".
Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon on Monday, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth hinted at additional executive orders in the pipeline. "Today, there are more executive orders coming... on removing DEI inside the Pentagon, reinstating troops who were pushed out because of Covid mandates, [and] Iron Dome for America," Hegseth said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ai-sensation-deepseek-dethrones-chatgpt-but-limits-users-amid-malicious-cyberattacks-8659469" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks</a>
"This is happening quickly, and as the secretary of defence, it&rsquo;s an honour to ensure these orders are complied with rapidly and effectively," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The order outlines plans for creating an advanced defence system, similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, which was developed in partnership with the US.

US President Donald Trump is planning to sign an executive order that would begin the process of creating a "next generation" missile defence system to protect the United States from threats posed by ballistic missiles and other long-range attacks. "The threat of attack by ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles remains a catastrophic threat facing the United States," states a White House document cited by CNN about the proposed order. Also read: Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives The order outlines plans for creating an advanced defence system, similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, which was developed in partnership with the US. Iron Dome is designed to counter a range of threats, including drones, rockets, and cruise missiles. Why does the US need an Iron Dome? The initiative seeks to speed up the development and deployment of advanced systems capable of detecting, intercepting, and neutralising incoming missiles, with provisions to prevent such attacks before they are launched. A fact sheet on the executive order describes this next-generation defence shield as a safeguard against "catastrophic threats," though no such weapons have been used against US territory in modern warfare. Also read: 'My people are getting attacked' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown The document also criticises existing homeland missile defence policies, adding that they focus primarily on countering threats from rogue nations or accidental missile launches. The president has said that the new system "will be made all in the USA". Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon on Monday, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth hinted at additional executive orders in the pipeline. "Today, there are more executive orders coming... on removing DEI inside the Pentagon, reinstating troops who were pushed out because of Covid mandates, [and] Iron Dome for America," Hegseth said. Also read: Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks "This is happening quickly, and as the secretary of defence, it’s an honour to ensure these orders are complied with rapidly and effectively," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's 'Iron Dome for America': US President to sign executive order for 'next-gen' missile defence upgrade

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> is expected to sign multiple executive orders on Monday (Jan 27) to reshape the military.
Among military-related orders, the first one is to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives from the Department of Defense. 
Another order would ban transgender service members from serving in the US armed forces, CNN reported. A third will reinstate service members dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations. In his inauguration speech, Trump called the dismissals "unjust expulsions."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ai-sensation-deepseek-dethrones-chatgpt-but-limits-users-amid-malicious-cyberattacks-8659469" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks</a>
Approximately 8,000 military personnel were discharged over vaccine refusals during the pandemic, but only 43 were reinstated before Trump returned to the White House.
Shortly after he arrived at the Pentagon on Monday, Hegseth told reporters that there were &ldquo;more executive orders coming.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Today, there are more executive orders coming, &hellip; on removing DEI inside the Pentagon, reinstating troops who were pushed out because of Covid mandates, iron dome for America &mdash; this is happening quickly, and as the secretary of defence, it&rsquo;s an honour to salute smartly as I did as a junior officer and now as the secretary of defence to ensure these orders are complied with rapidly and quickly,&rdquo; Hegseth said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/selena-gomez-breaks-down-in-tears-over-trumps-immigration-crackdown-deletes-video-later-8659468" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'I&rsquo;m so sorry' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown, deletes video later</a>
<h2>Removal of DEI initiatives from the US military</h2>
The removal of DEI initiatives was a major campaign promise that Trump began implementing immediately after assuming office last week. DEI programmes aim to encourage participation from individuals of diverse backgrounds in workplaces.
Shortly after taking office, Trump directed all federal employees involved in DEI initiatives to be placed on paid administrative leave. According to the White House, these staff members had to be on leave by 17:00 EST (22:00 GMT) the next day, after which the offices and programmes were closed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/eu-agrees-roadmap-to-ease-syria-sanctions-after-assads-ouster-8659467" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">EU agrees to roadmap for easing Syria sanctions after Assad's ouster</a>
Trump labelled DEI initiatives as "dangerous, demeaning and immoral" in an official order. A White House source confirmed to CBS that the executive orders will ban practices that promote discriminatory race- or sex-based preferences in the military, Department of Defense, or the Department of Homeland Security.
The remaining DEI-related structures within these departments will also be dismantled. Additionally, military service academies, such as West Point and the US Air Force Academy, will undergo a review of their curricula for content perceived as "radical" DEI or gender ideologies.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Shortly after he arrived at the Pentagon on Monday, US President Trump's Defence pick, Pete Hegseth, told reporters that there were “more executive orders coming.”

US President Donald Trump is expected to sign multiple executive orders on Monday (Jan 27) to reshape the military. Among military-related orders, the first one is to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives from the Department of Defense. Another order would ban transgender service members from serving in the US armed forces, CNN reported. A third will reinstate service members dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations. In his inauguration speech, Trump called the dismissals "unjust expulsions." Also read: Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks Approximately 8,000 military personnel were discharged over vaccine refusals during the pandemic, but only 43 were reinstated before Trump returned to the White House. Shortly after he arrived at the Pentagon on Monday, Hegseth told reporters that there were “more executive orders coming.” “Today, there are more executive orders coming, … on removing DEI inside the Pentagon, reinstating troops who were pushed out because of Covid mandates, iron dome for America — this is happening quickly, and as the secretary of defence, it’s an honour to salute smartly as I did as a junior officer and now as the secretary of defence to ensure these orders are complied with rapidly and quickly,” Hegseth said. Also read: 'I’m so sorry' Selena Gomez breaks down in tears over Trump's immigration crackdown, deletes video later Removal of DEI initiatives from the US military The removal of DEI initiatives was a major campaign promise that Trump began implementing immediately after assuming office last week. DEI programmes aim to encourage participation from individuals of diverse backgrounds in workplaces. Shortly after taking office, Trump directed all federal employees involved in DEI initiatives to be placed on paid administrative leave. According to the White House, these staff members had to be on leave by 17:00 EST (22:00 GMT) the next day, after which the offices and programmes were closed. Also read: EU agrees to roadmap for easing Syria sanctions after Assad's ouster Trump labelled DEI initiatives as "dangerous, demeaning and immoral" in an official order. A White House source confirmed to CBS that the executive orders will ban practices that promote discriminatory race- or sex-based preferences in the military, Department of Defense, or the Department of Homeland Security. The remaining DEI-related structures within these departments will also be dismantled. Additionally, military service academies, such as West Point and the US Air Force Academy, will undergo a review of their curricula for content perceived as "radical" DEI or gender ideologies. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to shake up US military with executive orders targeting transgender troops, scrapping DEI initiatives

Chinese AI platform DeepSeek announced on Monday (Jan 27) that it is limiting new user registrations due to large-scale cyberattacks, just hours after becoming the top free app on Apple&rsquo;s App Store in the United States.
<h2>DeepSeek faces 'large-scale malicious attacks'</h2>
DeepSeek, which recently surpassed OpenAI&rsquo;s ChatGPT in popularity, reported "large-scale malicious attacks" causing major service outages. As a result, the platform has restricted access for new users. These outages have impacted both its desktop and mobile versions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/ais-sputnik-moment-chinas-cheap-ai-app-deepseek-overtakes-billion-dollar-chatgpt-8658617">'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI model DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT</a>
<h2>Tech stocks plunge following DeepSeek&rsquo;s success</h2>
Developed by a start-up in Hangzhou, eastern China, DeepSeek has quickly gained recognition for competing with industry leaders like OpenAI at a fraction of the cost. 
Its rise to the top of the US App Store on Monday sent shockwaves through the stock market, with shares in AI-related tech giants plummeting. 
Nvidia&rsquo;s market value dropped by $500 billion, while companies like Microsoft and Meta also faced significant losses. European firms were affected as well, with Dutch semiconductor equipment maker ASML&rsquo;s shares falling over 10% and Siemens Energy&rsquo;s shares declining by 21%.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-sam-altman-donald-trump-stargate-project-8656146">Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump</a>
DeepSeek offers generative AI capabilities similar to its Western counterparts, enabling users to compose song lyrics, plan personal projects, or solve complex maths and reasoning problems. Although its functionality is subject to the strict censorship seen in other Chinese chatbots, such as Baidu&rsquo;s Ernie Bot, which limits discussions on political topics.
<h2>Who founded DeepSeek?</h2>
DeepSeek was established in 2023 by Liang Wenfeng, an information and electronic engineering graduate from Hangzhou in southeastern China.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-suchir-balaji-murdered-new-photos-from-crime-scene-raises-questions-on-suicide-claims-8656454">Was Suchir Balaji murdered? New photos from crime scene raise questions on suicide claims</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/bruh-its-down-again-chatgpt-suffers-global-outage-millions-of-users-unable-to-access-platform-8647550"></a>Liang, who also founded the hedge fund that financed DeepSeek, reportedly stockpiled Nvidia A100 chips&mdash;now banned from export to China&mdash;to support the development of the app. Experts estimate he acquired around 50,000 of these chips and combined them with lower-end, imported alternatives to create the technology behind DeepSeek.
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & Tech, world: DeepSeek, which recently surpassed OpenAI’s ChatGPT in popularity, reported "large-scale malicious attacks" causing major service outages.

Chinese AI platform DeepSeek announced on Monday (Jan 27) that it is limiting new user registrations due to large-scale cyberattacks, just hours after becoming the top free app on Apple’s App Store in the United States. DeepSeek faces 'large-scale malicious attacks' DeepSeek, which recently surpassed OpenAI’s ChatGPT in popularity, reported "large-scale malicious attacks" causing major service outages. As a result, the platform has restricted access for new users. These outages have impacted both its desktop and mobile versions. Also read: 'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI model DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT Tech stocks plunge following DeepSeek’s success Developed by a start-up in Hangzhou, eastern China, DeepSeek has quickly gained recognition for competing with industry leaders like OpenAI at a fraction of the cost. Its rise to the top of the US App Store on Monday sent shockwaves through the stock market, with shares in AI-related tech giants plummeting. Nvidia’s market value dropped by $500 billion, while companies like Microsoft and Meta also faced significant losses. European firms were affected as well, with Dutch semiconductor equipment maker ASML’s shares falling over 10% and Siemens Energy’s shares declining by 21%. Also read: Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump DeepSeek offers generative AI capabilities similar to its Western counterparts, enabling users to compose song lyrics, plan personal projects, or solve complex maths and reasoning problems. Although its functionality is subject to the strict censorship seen in other Chinese chatbots, such as Baidu’s Ernie Bot, which limits discussions on political topics. Who founded DeepSeek? DeepSeek was established in 2023 by Liang Wenfeng, an information and electronic engineering graduate from Hangzhou in southeastern China. Also read: Was Suchir Balaji murdered? New photos from crime scene raise questions on suicide claims Liang, who also founded the hedge fund that financed DeepSeek, reportedly stockpiled Nvidia A100 chips—now banned from export to China—to support the development of the app. Experts estimate he acquired around 50,000 of these chips and combined them with lower-end, imported alternatives to create the technology behind DeepSeek. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks

Coca-Cola on Monday (Jan 27) issued an urgent recall of some of its most popular beverages across Europe, including Coke, Sprite, and Fanta after tests revealed alarming levels of chlorate contamination. 
The affected drinks, sold in cans and glass bottles, have been distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since late November.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pepsi-and-coke-bottlers-face-can-and-sugar-shortage-in-west-bank-768616">Pepsi and Coke bottlers face can and sugar shortage in West Bank</a>
<h2>What happened?</h2>
In a statement to AFP, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium described the recall as involving a &ldquo;considerable quantity&rdquo; of products but did not provide specific figures. 
"The majority of the affected and unsold products have already been removed from store shelves, and we continue to take measures to remove all remaining products from the market," the company said.
The contamination was discovered during a routine inspection at Coca-Cola&rsquo;s production facility in Ghent, Belgium.
<h2>What are the health risks of chlorate?</h2>
Chlorate is a by-product of chlorine-based disinfectants commonly used in water treatment and food processing. Prolonged exposure to chlorate can pose significant health risks, particularly for children with mild or moderate iodine deficiency, according to a 2015 report by the European Food Safety Authority. The agency also noted that acute exposure in a single day could be toxic.
<h2>Which products are affected?</h2>
The recall includes beverages with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Products impacted by the contamination include:
Fuze Tea
Minute Maid
Nalu
Royal Bliss
Tropico
Consumers have been urged not to consume these drinks and to return them to the point of purchase for a refund.
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Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium apologised for the incident and reassured the public that it is working closely with relevant authorities in all affected regions. "We are in contact with the competent authorities in each of the affected markets," the company added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: Coca-Cola recalls Coke, Fanta, Sprite, and more in Europe after high chlorate levels found. Health risks cited—here’s what to know.

Coca-Cola on Monday (Jan 27) issued an urgent recall of some of its most popular beverages across Europe, including Coke, Sprite, and Fanta after tests revealed alarming levels of chlorate contamination. The affected drinks, sold in cans and glass bottles, have been distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since late November. Also read: Pepsi and Coke bottlers face can and sugar shortage in West Bank What happened? In a statement to AFP, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium described the recall as involving a “considerable quantity” of products but did not provide specific figures. "The majority of the affected and unsold products have already been removed from store shelves, and we continue to take measures to remove all remaining products from the market," the company said. The contamination was discovered during a routine inspection at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent, Belgium. What are the health risks of chlorate? Chlorate is a by-product of chlorine-based disinfectants commonly used in water treatment and food processing. Prolonged exposure to chlorate can pose significant health risks, particularly for children with mild or moderate iodine deficiency, according to a 2015 report by the European Food Safety Authority. The agency also noted that acute exposure in a single day could be toxic. Which products are affected? The recall includes beverages with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Products impacted by the contamination include: Fuze Tea Minute Maid Nalu Royal Bliss Tropico Consumers have been urged not to consume these drinks and to return them to the point of purchase for a refund. Also read: Famous cola brand launched by Palestinian activist to rebuild hospital destroyed in war-torn Gaza Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium apologised for the incident and reassured the public that it is working closely with relevant authorities in all affected regions. "We are in contact with the competent authorities in each of the affected markets," the company added. (With inputs from agencies)

Coca-Cola recalls 'all' cans, glass bottles in Europe including Sprite, Fanta, and more. Here's why

Eight of the hostages expected to be freed in the initial stage of a truce between Israel and Hamas have died, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer confirmed on Monday (Jan 27).
&ldquo;The families have been informed of the situation of their relatives,&rdquo; Mencer told reporters, without disclosing the identities of the deceased.
This leaves only 18 of the 26 hostages set to be released in the first phase of the agreement still alive.
The ceasefire, which was declared earlier in January after months of unsuccessful negotiations, began on January 19. It marked the end of over 15 months of conflict triggered by Hamas&rsquo;s attack on October 7, 2023.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-million-children-women-at-risk-researcher-sounds-alarm-on-serious-damage-as-us-freezes-foreign-aid-8659245">90 million children, women at risk! Researcher sounds alarm on serious damage as US freezes foreign aid</a>
<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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" rel="dofollow">Gaza</a> 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.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-hamas-war-mixed-emotions-as-palestinians-return-to-demolished-homes-in-northern-gaza-8658188">'Born again': Mixed emotions as Palestinians return to 'demolished' homes in northern Gaza</a>
<h2>Displaced Palestinians make their way back to northern Gaza</h2>
Meanwhile, displaced Palestinians began making their way back to northern Gaza on Monday, January 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 AFP.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auschwitz-survivors-mark-80th-anniversary-holocaust-remembrance-day-auschwitz-commemoration-event-olaf-scholz-king-charles-8658708">'We&rsquo;ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation</a>
Tensions flared on Saturday when thousands of Palestinians gathered at the Netzarim Corridor, only to be blocked by Israeli forces. Israel claimed that Hamas had breached the agreement by failing to include Arbel Yehoud, an Israeli civilian, in the scheduled hostage release.
Hamas countered the allegation, accusing Israel of violating the truce by preventing displaced Palestinians from returning north. The group stated it had provided &ldquo;all the necessary guarantees&rdquo; for Yehoud&rsquo;s release.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Gaza ceasefire, Israel Hamas war: The ceasefire, which was declared earlier in January after months of unsuccessful negotiations, began on January 19. 

Eight of the hostages expected to be freed in the initial stage of a truce between Israel and Hamas have died, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer confirmed on Monday (Jan 27). “The families have been informed of the situation of their relatives,” Mencer told reporters, without disclosing the identities of the deceased. This leaves only 18 of the 26 hostages set to be released in the first phase of the agreement still alive. The ceasefire, which was declared earlier in January after months of unsuccessful negotiations, began on January 19. It marked the end of over 15 months of conflict triggered by Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023. Also read: 90 million children, women at risk! Researcher sounds alarm on serious damage as US freezes foreign aid 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. Also read: 'Born again': Mixed emotions as Palestinians return to 'demolished' homes in northern Gaza Displaced Palestinians make their way back to northern Gaza Meanwhile, displaced Palestinians began making their way back to northern Gaza on Monday, January 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 AFP. Also read: 'We’ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation Tensions flared on Saturday when thousands of Palestinians gathered at the Netzarim Corridor, only to be blocked by Israeli forces. Israel claimed that Hamas had breached the agreement by failing to include Arbel Yehoud, an Israeli civilian, in the scheduled hostage release. Hamas countered the allegation, accusing Israel of violating the truce by preventing displaced Palestinians from returning north. The group stated it had provided “all the necessary guarantees” for Yehoud’s release. (With inputs from agencies)

'Families have been informed': Eight of the 33 hostages due for release in first phase of Gaza ceasefire deal are dead

Leaders from around the globe came together in Poland to honour the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on Monday (Jan 27).
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week.&nbsp; 
In other news, India and China have reached an agreement to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). This decision came after discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auschwitz-survivors-mark-80th-anniversary-holocaust-remembrance-day-auschwitz-commemoration-event-olaf-scholz-king-charles-8658708">'We&rsquo;ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/jwYFixVFTkqwiDmPGuX0.png" alt=" French President Emmanuel Macron (back 3L), Italian President Sergio Mattarella (2L), the French president's wife Brigitte Macron, Queen Letizia of Spain, King Felipe VI of Spain, Queen Maxima of the Netherlands (R) and other guests listen as Polish historian and Holocaust survivor Marian Turski delivers a speech during commemorations on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz-Birkenau by the Red Army, in Oswiecim, Poland on January 27, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Leaders from around the globe came together in Poland to honour the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on Monday (Jan 27).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-donald-trump-discuss-strengthening-india-us-partnership-over-call-8658886">PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/7wCsaokITcqgbiNqfn4Y.jpeg" alt=" Indian PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump ">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-talks-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-to-start-from-summer-of-2025-8659012">India-China talks: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights to resume in 2025 - Know when</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/J10OgqNAfW2QmNLnNqQM.png" alt=" The pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar in Tibetan region of China is considered holy by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains Photograph: (PTI) ">
India and China have reached an agreement to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). This decision came after discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-man-arrested-for-making-assassination-threats-against-us-president-donald-trump-on-facebook-8657071">Florida man arrested for making assassination threats against US President Trump on Facebook</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/21/trump-inauguration-viral-moments1.png" alt=" File Photo: Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">Police in Florida, US, have arrested a West Palm Beach resident for allegedly threatening to kill US President Donald Trump.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-release-six-hostages-including-arbel-yehud-israel-says-gazans-can-now-return-home-8656726">Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/HQJXtzd06dg8RQ6jJEee.png" alt=" (L) People gather by a banner welcoming people near the rubble of a collapsed building along Gaza's coastal al-Rashid Street for people to cross from the Israeli-blocked Netzarim corridor from the southern Gaza Strip into Gaza City on January 26, 2025. (R) Israeli civilian Arbel Yehud. Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP and Reuters) ">
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Sunday (Jan 26) announced that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will release six hostages this week, including Arbel Yehud, whose absence in prior releases had delayed the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-extends-ceasefire-with-israel-till-feb-18-even-as-it-accuses-tel-aviv-of-killing-22-civilians-8656608">Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/0vwiWVYjcHkTaFsv7Slm.png" alt=" Lebanese army vehicles drive past destroyed buildings in the southern Lebanese village of Yarin on January 26, 2025. Israeli army fire killed 22 people in south Lebanon on January 26, including a soldier, health officials said, as residents tried to return home on the day Israel was meant to withdraw under a truce deal. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Lebanon announced Monday (Jan 27) that it would extend its ceasefire agreement with Israel until mid-February, even as it accused Israeli forces of killing 22 people in the south of the country.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-indian-foreign-secretary-vikram-misri-hold-key-talks-8658749">&lsquo;Mutual understanding over mutual suspicion&rsquo;: Chinese Foreign Minister, Indian Foreign Secretary hold key talks</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/kgQ9sB6vn5uEO4fCs49G.png" alt=" File photo of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Photograph: (Agencies) ">
India and China should meet each other halfway and commit themselves to mutual understanding rather than mutual suspicion, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday as he met Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing.
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<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/nX0sBDhJByks7XtFjMa5.png" alt=" Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf amendment bill amid opposition uproar Photograph: (ANI) ">
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) approved the Waqf Amendment Bill on Monday, introducing 14 changes to the proposed draft. The bill, which aims to reform the management of Muslim charitable properties, was initially tabled in August last year.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-naomi-girma-24-years-old-million-dollar-female-footballer-most-expensive-female-football-player-chelsea-women-olympic-gold-winner-8659154">Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/Ebgb9CNsGHdA2I7MtH76.png" alt=" Naomi Girma is the world's most expensive female footballer. Photograph: (X/ChelseaFCW) ">
&nbsp;
Naomi Girma created history after being signed up for $1.12 million by the United Kingdom-based Chelsea football club, as reported by the BBC. She is now the world's most expensive female footballer and the first millionaire female football player as well. She surpassed Zambia's Rachael Kundananji, who had joined US-based Bay FC for an erstwhile transfer fee of $860,000.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coldplays-chris-martin-and-actress-dakota-johnson-arrive-at-maha-kumbh-watch-8658804">Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh | Watch</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/27/0OaAZfE8KpucZEbMyyw0.png" alt=" Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh Photograph: (Still from video: news agency ANI) ">
&nbsp;
Chris Martin is in Maha Kumbh. A day after wrapping the Indian leg of his tour, the Coldplay singer visited the Indian city of Prayagraj with his girlfriend and American actress Dakota Johnson to witness the oldest religious event.
&nbsp;
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World | Top 10 world news: 80th anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation; Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discuss India-US ties over call, and more.

Leaders from around the globe came together in Poland to honour the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on Monday (Jan 27). Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week. In other news, India and China have reached an agreement to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). This decision came after discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Click on the headlines to read more 'We’ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation Leaders from around the globe came together in Poland to honour the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on Monday (Jan 27). PM Modi and Donald Trump discuss strengthening India-US partnership over call Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Donald Trump a week after his second inauguration as US President. This marks the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office last week. India-China talks: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights to resume in 2025 - Know when India and China have reached an agreement to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since 2020, as per a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (Jan 27). This decision came after discussions between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Florida man arrested for making assassination threats against US President Trump on Facebook Police in Florida, US, have arrested a West Palm Beach resident for allegedly threatening to kill US President Donald Trump. Israel says Gazans can now return home as Hamas set to release six hostages, including Arbel Yehud Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Sunday (Jan 26) announced that the Palestinian militant group Hamas will release six hostages this week, including Arbel Yehud, whose absence in prior releases had delayed the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza. Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18 Lebanon announced Monday (Jan 27) that it would extend its ceasefire agreement with Israel until mid-February, even as it accused Israeli forces of killing 22 people in the south of the country. ‘Mutual understanding over mutual suspicion’: Chinese Foreign Minister, Indian Foreign Secretary hold key talks India and China should meet each other halfway and commit themselves to mutual understanding rather than mutual suspicion, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday as he met Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing. India: Joint Parliamentary Committee clears Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition uproar The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) approved the Waqf Amendment Bill on Monday, introducing 14 changes to the proposed draft. The bill, which aims to reform the management of Muslim charitable properties, was initially tabled in August last year. Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer Naomi Girma created history after being signed up for $1.12 million by the United Kingdom-based Chelsea football club, as reported by the BBC. She is now the world's most expensive female footballer and the first millionaire female football player as well. She surpassed Zambia's Rachael Kundananji, who had joined US-based Bay FC for an erstwhile transfer fee of $860,000. Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh | Watch Chris Martin is in Maha Kumbh. A day after wrapping the Indian leg of his tour, the Coldplay singer visited the Indian city of Prayagraj with his girlfriend and American actress Dakota Johnson to witness the oldest religious event.

Top 10 world news: 80th anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation; PM Modi and Trump discuss India-US ties over call, and more

American surgeon and public health expert Dr Atul Gawande has criticised the Trump administration's decision to implement a 90-day &ldquo;Stop Work Order&rdquo; on foreign assistance. The order is part of a broader policy review to align foreign aid with President Trump&rsquo;s priorities. The order stops billions of dollars in vital aid and disrupts key health initiatives around the globe. In a post on social media platform X, Gawande said that the freeze could impact efforts to control deadly disease outbreaks. These include diseases such as the Marburg virus in Tanzania and a deadly Mpox variant in West Africa. The suspension also halts monitoring of bird flu in 49 countries.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6f949hx-tztjpzx5-5z5mtlmg">
I ran <a href="https://twitter.com/USAID?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAID</a> health programs for the last 3 years. Trump&rsquo;s 90 day Stop Work Order on foreign assistance does serious damage to the world and the US. Examples:🧵
&mdash; Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atul_Gawande/status/1883212990948024416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The surgeon added that these measures will also hinder progress in eliminating diseases like polio, river blindness, and elephantiasis. These diseases were close to being eradicated in several regions a few months ago. Gawande also said that the order halts the distribution of medicines and supplies critical to more than 90 million women and children, who rely on low-cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, and contraception. He added that services for 6.5 million vulnerable children and caregivers in 23 countries have been already stopped, while access to drugs for 20 million people living with HIV has been cut.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6f9bizu-d6qi83al-nfzi9jeo">
5. Stops medicines, supplies, systems building, staff support aiding &gt;90 million women and children to get low cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, contraception, and other basic lifesaving health needs. <a href="https://t.co/RCVNKjA7x9">https://t.co/RCVNKjA7x9</a>
&mdash; Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atul_Gawande/status/1883213004390772850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The order also disrupts operations at USAID, the US agency responsible for foreign aid, as employees face uncertainty about their future, putting the agency's ongoing operations at risk.
Gawande warned that this could harm the US's global reputation, relationships with other countries, and its long-term strategic interests.
In 2023, the US provided $72 billion in foreign assistance, which funded health, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian programmes worldwide. However, the &ldquo;Stop Work Order&rdquo; threatens the continuation of these programmes, placing efforts in areas like clean water, development, and military aid at risk.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Atul Gawande said that services for 6.5 million vulnerable children and caregivers in 23 countries have already been stopped, while access to drugs for 20 million people living with HIV has been cut.

American surgeon and public health expert Dr Atul Gawande has criticised the Trump administration's decision to implement a 90-day “Stop Work Order” on foreign assistance. The order is part of a broader policy review to align foreign aid with President Trump’s priorities. The order stops billions of dollars in vital aid and disrupts key health initiatives around the globe. In a post on social media platform X, Gawande said that the freeze could impact efforts to control deadly disease outbreaks. These include diseases such as the Marburg virus in Tanzania and a deadly Mpox variant in West Africa. The suspension also halts monitoring of bird flu in 49 countries. I ran @USAID health programs for the last 3 years. Trump’s 90 day Stop Work Order on foreign assistance does serious damage to the world and the US. Examples:🧵 — Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) January 25, 2025 The surgeon added that these measures will also hinder progress in eliminating diseases like polio, river blindness, and elephantiasis. These diseases were close to being eradicated in several regions a few months ago. Gawande also said that the order halts the distribution of medicines and supplies critical to more than 90 million women and children, who rely on low-cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, and contraception. He added that services for 6.5 million vulnerable children and caregivers in 23 countries have been already stopped, while access to drugs for 20 million people living with HIV has been cut. 5. Stops medicines, supplies, systems building, staff support aiding >90 million women and children to get low cost vaccinations, prenatal care, safe childbirth, contraception, and other basic lifesaving health needs. https://t.co/RCVNKjA7x9 — Atul Gawande (@Atul_Gawande) January 25, 2025 The order also disrupts operations at USAID, the US agency responsible for foreign aid, as employees face uncertainty about their future, putting the agency's ongoing operations at risk. Gawande warned that this could harm the US's global reputation, relationships with other countries, and its long-term strategic interests. In 2023, the US provided $72 billion in foreign assistance, which funded health, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian programmes worldwide. However, the “Stop Work Order” threatens the continuation of these programmes, placing efforts in areas like clean water, development, and military aid at risk. (With inputs from agencies)

90 million children, women at risk! Researcher sounds alarm on serious damage as US freezes foreign aid

Leaders from around the globe came together in Poland to honour the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on Monday (Jan 27). 
Survivors of the concentration camp were joined by notable figures, including Britain&rsquo;s King Charles, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other dignitaries.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-news-today-joins-germany-afd-rally-germans-to-move-beyond-past-guilt-amid-nazi-salute-controversy-8654678" aria-label="'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt'">'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt'</a>
The event, held on the grounds of the former camp, focused on the voices of survivors rather than speeches from world leaders.
Marian Turski, member of the International Auschwitz Council and Auschwitz survivor,&nbsp; said, "One must not be afraid at all. We see in the contemporary world, today and now, a huge rise in antisemitism. That is precisely antisemitism that led to the Holocaust."
<h2>Focus on survivors and their message</h2>
&ldquo;This year, we are focusing on the survivors and their message,&rdquo; said Paweł Sawicki, spokesperson for the Auschwitz Museum ahead of the event.&nbsp;
He added that for future anniversaries, it may no longer be possible to gather a significant number of survivors. &ldquo;There will not be any speeches by politicians,&rdquo; Sawicki added.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-elon-musk-nazi-salute-israel-hitler-8647897" aria-label="'Great friend of Israel': Netanyahu defends Elon Musk after his 'Nazi' salute">'Great friend of Israel': Netanyahu defends Elon Musk after his 'Nazi' salute</a>
The Auschwitz Memorial and Museum recognised the physical and emotional toll such an event can have on survivors. In a statement, they said, &ldquo;We are fully aware of how physically demanding and emotionally taxing attending the commemoration event at the site of the former camp can be for them.&rdquo;
<h2>International Holocaust Remembrance Day</h2>
Ahead of the ceremony, survivors placed wreaths and lit candles in remembrance of those who perished. Poland&rsquo;s President Andrzej Duda remarked, &ldquo;We are at a special place on a special day,&rdquo; according to a translation. He also reminded those present of the significance of the date, saying, &ldquo;This is also a day which, 20 years ago, was declared by the United Nations as the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, because as we know very well, concentration camps&hellip; were built in order to implement the extermination of the Jewish nation.&rdquo;
<h2>'We&rsquo;ll never forget those murdered in Auschwitz': German Chancellor Olaf Scholz</h2>
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz posted on X, &ldquo;Sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, friends, neighbours, grandparents: more than one million individuals with dreams and hopes were murdered in Auschwitz by Germans. We mourn their deaths. And express our deepest sympathy. We&rsquo;ll never forget them. Not today, not tomorrow.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-talks-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-to-start-from-summer-of-2025-8659012" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India-China talks: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights to resume in 2025 - Know when</a>
<h2>How did Auschwitz become the site of the largest&nbsp;mass execution in human history?</h2>
Auschwitz, originally a Polish military barracks in southern Poland, was transformed into a prison for political detainees after Nazi Germany invaded and occupied the country in September 1939. Over the next four and a half years, the Nazis systematically murdered at least 1.1 million people across the 40 camps that comprised the Auschwitz complex.
The camp became central to the Nazi plan to annihilate Europe&rsquo;s Jewish population. Of those who perished at Auschwitz, nearly one million were Jewish. However, the victims also included Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others. Auschwitz remains a symbol of the largest mass execution in human history.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Survivors of the concentration camp were joined by notable figures, including Britain’s King Charles, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other dignitaries.

Leaders from around the globe came together in Poland to honour the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on Monday (Jan 27). Survivors of the concentration camp were joined by notable figures, including Britain’s King Charles, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other dignitaries. Also read: 'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt' The event, held on the grounds of the former camp, focused on the voices of survivors rather than speeches from world leaders. Marian Turski, member of the International Auschwitz Council and Auschwitz survivor, said, "One must not be afraid at all. We see in the contemporary world, today and now, a huge rise in antisemitism. That is precisely antisemitism that led to the Holocaust." Focus on survivors and their message “This year, we are focusing on the survivors and their message,” said Paweł Sawicki, spokesperson for the Auschwitz Museum ahead of the event. He added that for future anniversaries, it may no longer be possible to gather a significant number of survivors. “There will not be any speeches by politicians,” Sawicki added. Also read: 'Great friend of Israel': Netanyahu defends Elon Musk after his 'Nazi' salute The Auschwitz Memorial and Museum recognised the physical and emotional toll such an event can have on survivors. In a statement, they said, “We are fully aware of how physically demanding and emotionally taxing attending the commemoration event at the site of the former camp can be for them.” International Holocaust Remembrance Day Ahead of the ceremony, survivors placed wreaths and lit candles in remembrance of those who perished. Poland’s President Andrzej Duda remarked, “We are at a special place on a special day,” according to a translation. He also reminded those present of the significance of the date, saying, “This is also a day which, 20 years ago, was declared by the United Nations as the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, because as we know very well, concentration camps… were built in order to implement the extermination of the Jewish nation.” 'We’ll never forget those murdered in Auschwitz': German Chancellor Olaf Scholz German Chancellor Olaf Scholz posted on X, “Sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, friends, neighbours, grandparents: more than one million individuals with dreams and hopes were murdered in Auschwitz by Germans. We mourn their deaths. And express our deepest sympathy. We’ll never forget them. Not today, not tomorrow.” Also read: India-China talks: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights to resume in 2025 - Know when How did Auschwitz become the site of the largest mass execution in human history? Auschwitz, originally a Polish military barracks in southern Poland, was transformed into a prison for political detainees after Nazi Germany invaded and occupied the country in September 1939. Over the next four and a half years, the Nazis systematically murdered at least 1.1 million people across the 40 camps that comprised the Auschwitz complex. The camp became central to the Nazi plan to annihilate Europe’s Jewish population. Of those who perished at Auschwitz, nearly one million were Jewish. However, the victims also included Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others. Auschwitz remains a symbol of the largest mass execution in human history. (With inputs from agencies)

'We’ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation

US President Donald Trump sparked criticism during his first rally in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday (Jan 25), after the inauguration. While much of his speech centred on his "no taxes on tips" campaign pledge, his comments on political correctness drew significant backlash.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-was-foolish-to-spend-anytime-with-him-bill-gates-on-his-friendship-with-jeffrey-epstein-8657432">I was foolish to spend any time with him: Bill Gates on his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein</a>
<h2>Trump on referring to waitresses &nbsp;</h2>
Trump remarked about how societal norms had changed, saying, "You used to be able to say a young beautiful waitress. This was a young beautiful waitress, but I will not say that because I want to continue my political career. If you call a woman beautiful today, it is the end of your political career, so I will not do it."
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-hamas-war-mixed-emotions-as-palestinians-return-to-demolished-homes-in-northern-gaza-8658188"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-hamas-war-mixed-emotions-as-palestinians-return-to-demolished-homes-in-northern-gaza-8658188">'Born again': Mixed emotions as Palestinians return to 'demolished' homes in northern Gaza</a>
He further added, "I think you can call her young. You are probably not even supposed to say young. You are probably supposed to say a waitress."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Trump: You used to be able to say a young beautiful waitress. This was a young beautiful waitress but I will not say that because I want to continue my political career. If you call a woman beautiful today, it is the end of your political career so I will not do it. I think you&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/QKSTiWNQBR">pic.twitter.com/QKSTiWNQBR</a>
&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1883265834505879878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Social media reaction</h2>
Trump's comments quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism on social media. Many users expressed their disapproval of his rhetoric, labelling it outdated and inappropriate.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-man-arrested-for-making-assassination-threats-against-us-president-donald-trump-on-facebook-8657071">Florida man arrested for making assassination threats against US President Trump on Facebook</a>
One user wrote, &ldquo;How about you just don&rsquo;t be a creepy old man.&rdquo; Another commented, &ldquo;He&rsquo;s just dumb &ndash; simple as that, just dumb.&rdquo; A third pointed out, &ldquo;A woman doesn&rsquo;t want unwanted attention from creepy males.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Trump remarked on how societal norms had changed, saying, "This was a young beautiful waitress, but I will not say that because I want to continue my political career. If you call a woman beautiful today, it is the end of your political career." 

US President Donald Trump sparked criticism during his first rally in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday (Jan 25), after the inauguration. While much of his speech centred on his "no taxes on tips" campaign pledge, his comments on political correctness drew significant backlash. Also Read | I was foolish to spend any time with him: Bill Gates on his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein Trump on referring to waitresses Trump remarked about how societal norms had changed, saying, "You used to be able to say a young beautiful waitress. This was a young beautiful waitress, but I will not say that because I want to continue my political career. If you call a woman beautiful today, it is the end of your political career, so I will not do it." Also Read | 'Born again': Mixed emotions as Palestinians return to 'demolished' homes in northern Gaza He further added, "I think you can call her young. You are probably not even supposed to say young. You are probably supposed to say a waitress." Trump: You used to be able to say a young beautiful waitress. This was a young beautiful waitress but I will not say that because I want to continue my political career. If you call a woman beautiful today, it is the end of your political career so I will not do it. I think you… pic.twitter.com/QKSTiWNQBR — Acyn (@Acyn) January 25, 2025 Social media reaction Trump's comments quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism on social media. Many users expressed their disapproval of his rhetoric, labelling it outdated and inappropriate. Also Read | Florida man arrested for making assassination threats against US President Trump on Facebook One user wrote, “How about you just don’t be a creepy old man.” Another commented, “He’s just dumb – simple as that, just dumb.” A third pointed out, “A woman doesn’t want unwanted attention from creepy males.” (With inputs from agencies)

Las Vegas rally: Trump's 'you can't call waitress beautiful' remark sparks outrage among netizens

Displaced Palestinians began returning to northern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gaza-ceasefire" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gaza</a> on Monday (Jan 27), said Palestine's interior ministry. Social media images captured thousands of people moving along sandy roads surrounded by the destruction 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 informed AFP.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6exbylh-tzrtul77-kpsv1i8g">
آلاف النازحين يعودون إلى مدينة غزة وشمال القطاع عبر شارع الرشيد الساحلي <a href="https://t.co/L4HcmmioDU">pic.twitter.com/L4HcmmioDU</a>
&mdash; أنس الشريف Anas Al-Sharif (@AnasAlSharif0) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasAlSharif0/status/1883749254726054124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-extends-ceasefire-with-israel-till-feb-18-even-as-it-accuses-tel-aviv-of-killing-22-civilians-8656608" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18</a>
This morning, long lines formed near the Netzarim Corridor as thousands of Palestinians prepared to return to their homes in the north. Israel opened the crossing to pedestrians at 07:00 local time (05:00 GMT), while vehicles were allowed to start travelling north from 09:00 (07:00 GMT).
Personnel from the Red Cross, as well as American and Egyptian teams, were present at the site, with Israeli forces overseeing the situation from a short distance. However, the process has been moving at a very slow pace. For the thousands of vehicles waiting in line to return, it may take several days to complete the journey.
<h2>Mixed feelings among Palestinians returning home</h2>
One Palestinian mother told Reuters, &ldquo;We are very happy to be back to our land, to our homeland, and to Gaza [City]. Praise be to God, it is true that we got tired, but in the end we were victorious. Thank you to the fighters&hellip; Thank God, it&rsquo;s like I was born again and we were victorious again.&rdquo;
While many have begun the journey home, some remain hesitant. Khaled Raba, 55, who is originally from Jabalia in the north, has decided to stay in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882">Khan Younis</a> for now. &ldquo;We were planning to move but my relatives who are still in Jabalia called me and said they don&rsquo;t advise me to come back. My brother called and said not to come. The houses are demolished to the ground. People are sleeping on the streets and nobody is helping them,&rdquo; he told the BBC.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-gaza-clean-out-plan-sparks-outrage-palestinian-leaders-vow-to-defend-their-land-8656564" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump's Gaza 'clean-out' plan sparks outrage, Palestinian leaders vow to defend their land</a>
On Saturday, thousands of Palestinians gathered at the Netzarim Corridor, a narrow strip of land controlled by Israel that divides the territory, hoping to return home under the terms of the recent ceasefire. 
However, Israeli forces erected roadblocks and, in some cases, opened fire on those attempting to return, killing at least one person. Israel accused Hamas of violating the agreement by failing to include Arbel Yehoud, an Israeli civilian, in Saturday&rsquo;s scheduled hostage release.
Hamas countered that preventing returns to the north was itself a breach of the truce, added that it had provided &ldquo;all the necessary guarantees&rdquo; for Yehoud&rsquo;s release.
In the early hours of Monday, Qatar, acting as mediator, announced that a new agreement had been reached. The deal stipulates that Yehoud will be released before Friday, along with two other hostages, and that Palestinians will be permitted to cross the corridor starting Monday morning.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Long lines formed near the Netzarim Corridor as Palestinians prepared to return to their homes. Israel opened the crossing at 07:00 local time (05:00 GMT).

Displaced Palestinians began returning to northern Gaza on Monday (Jan 27), said Palestine's interior ministry. Social media images captured thousands of people moving along sandy roads surrounded by the destruction 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 informed AFP. آلاف النازحين يعودون إلى مدينة غزة وشمال القطاع عبر شارع الرشيد الساحلي pic.twitter.com/L4HcmmioDU — أنس الشريف Anas Al-Sharif (@AnasAlSharif0) January 27, 2025 Also read: Lebanon extends ceasefire with Israel till Feb 18 This morning, long lines formed near the Netzarim Corridor as thousands of Palestinians prepared to return to their homes in the north. Israel opened the crossing to pedestrians at 07:00 local time (05:00 GMT), while vehicles were allowed to start travelling north from 09:00 (07:00 GMT). Personnel from the Red Cross, as well as American and Egyptian teams, were present at the site, with Israeli forces overseeing the situation from a short distance. However, the process has been moving at a very slow pace. For the thousands of vehicles waiting in line to return, it may take several days to complete the journey. Mixed feelings among Palestinians returning home One Palestinian mother told Reuters, “We are very happy to be back to our land, to our homeland, and to Gaza [City]. Praise be to God, it is true that we got tired, but in the end we were victorious. Thank you to the fighters… Thank God, it’s like I was born again and we were victorious again.” While many have begun the journey home, some remain hesitant. Khaled Raba, 55, who is originally from Jabalia in the north, has decided to stay in Khan Younis for now. “We were planning to move but my relatives who are still in Jabalia called me and said they don’t advise me to come back. My brother called and said not to come. The houses are demolished to the ground. People are sleeping on the streets and nobody is helping them,” he told the BBC. Also read: Trump's Gaza 'clean-out' plan sparks outrage, Palestinian leaders vow to defend their land On Saturday, thousands of Palestinians gathered at the Netzarim Corridor, a narrow strip of land controlled by Israel that divides the territory, hoping to return home under the terms of the recent ceasefire. However, Israeli forces erected roadblocks and, in some cases, opened fire on those attempting to return, killing at least one person. Israel accused Hamas of violating the agreement by failing to include Arbel Yehoud, an Israeli civilian, in Saturday’s scheduled hostage release. Hamas countered that preventing returns to the north was itself a breach of the truce, added that it had provided “all the necessary guarantees” for Yehoud’s release. In the early hours of Monday, Qatar, acting as mediator, announced that a new agreement had been reached. The deal stipulates that Yehoud will be released before Friday, along with two other hostages, and that Palestinians will be permitted to cross the corridor starting Monday morning. (With inputs from agencies)

'Born again': Mixed emotions as Palestinians return to 'demolished' homes in northern Gaza

Former Microsoft CEO and American philanthropist Bill Gates has spoken about his friendship with deceased financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) which was published on January 24, Gates said that he was foolish to spend any time with Epstein.&nbsp;
<h2>'...a huge mistake'</h2>
"In retrospect, I was foolish to spend any time with him. And he, sort of, got time with various people by spending time with other people," Gates said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bill-gates-calls-india-kind-of-laboratory-to-try-things-leaves-netizens-fuming-781052" rel="dofollow">Bill Gates calls India 'kind of laboratory to try things,' leaves netizens fuming</a>
"So yes, I think I was quite stupid. I thought it would help me with global health philanthropy. In fact, it failed to do that it was just a huge mistake," he added.
Gates also pointed out that the controversies that stemmed from meeting Epstein made him (Gates) more weary of building connections.&nbsp;
<h2>Epstein threatened to expose Gates about extramarital affair</h2>
Gates' remarks on his friendship with Epstein came after the deceased financier threatened the former Microsoft CEO over his extramarital affair with a Russian bridge player.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-fears-major-global-war-another-pandemic-likely-to-hit-within-25-years-758181" rel="dofollow">Bill Gates fears tensions triggering a global war, another pandemic breakout within 25 years</a>
A report by the WSJ report in 2023 said that when Epstein found out about Gates' affair, he threatened Gates to reimburse him for tuition costs that Epstein initially covered for the bridge player to attend software coding school.
The bridge player was identified as Mila Antonova.&nbsp;
The report said that Epstein made this threat to Gates in an email sent in 2017.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Gates' remarks on his friendship with Epstein came after the deceased financier threatened the former Microsoft CEO over his extramarital affair. 

Former Microsoft CEO and American philanthropist Bill Gates has spoken about his friendship with deceased financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) which was published on January 24, Gates said that he was foolish to spend any time with Epstein. '...a huge mistake' "In retrospect, I was foolish to spend any time with him. And he, sort of, got time with various people by spending time with other people," Gates said. Also read | Bill Gates calls India 'kind of laboratory to try things,' leaves netizens fuming "So yes, I think I was quite stupid. I thought it would help me with global health philanthropy. In fact, it failed to do that it was just a huge mistake," he added. Gates also pointed out that the controversies that stemmed from meeting Epstein made him (Gates) more weary of building connections. Epstein threatened to expose Gates about extramarital affair Gates' remarks on his friendship with Epstein came after the deceased financier threatened the former Microsoft CEO over his extramarital affair with a Russian bridge player. Also read | Bill Gates fears tensions triggering a global war, another pandemic breakout within 25 years A report by the WSJ report in 2023 said that when Epstein found out about Gates' affair, he threatened Gates to reimburse him for tuition costs that Epstein initially covered for the bridge player to attend software coding school. The bridge player was identified as Mila Antonova. The report said that Epstein made this threat to Gates in an email sent in 2017. (With inputs from agencies)

I was foolish to spend any time with him: Bill Gates on his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein

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