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

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

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

Scientists reveal the SAFEST COUNTRY when catastrophe strikes the planet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on global outreach tour 

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

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

How the S-400 protects itself from enemy attacks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disbarred US lawyer and former New York City (NYC) mayor Rudy Giuliani reached a deal on Thursday (January 16) that lets him keep his houses and belongings in exchange for unspecified compensation and a promise never to defame two election workers in Georgia who won a $148 million defamation judgment against him.
A report by the news agency Associated Press early Friday said that the deal resolved all pending litigation against Giuliani, 80, and the former election workers.
The former election workers were identified as Ruby Freeman and her daughter Wandrea Moss.&nbsp;
<h2>'A major milestone...'</h2>
Freeman and Moss won the judgement in 2020 after saying that Giuliani&rsquo;s lies about them following President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s 2020 election loss led to death threats.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rudy-giuliani-ordered-to-give-new-york-apartment-benz-to-two-georgia-election-workers-for-this-reason-769923" rel="dofollow">Rudy Giuliani ordered to give New York apartment, Benz to two Georgia election workers for this reason</a>
&ldquo;The past four years have been a living nightmare. We have fought to clear our names, restore our reputations, and prove that we did nothing wrong. Today is a major milestone in our journey,&rdquo; they said in a statement.
Freeman and Moss added that they allowed Giuliani to retain his property in exchange for compensation and his promise to never defame them.
It is not yet known how much money the former NYC mayor would pay the women.
<h2>'Deal satisfies the judgment but...'</h2>
In a statement, Giuliani said that the agreement satisfied the judgment against him but "does not involve an admission of liability or wrongdoing."
Also watch | Rudy Giuliani files for bankruptcy in New York
<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/files/2023/12/22/2212_WION_RUDY_130PM-1703239525-00000003.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2212_WION_RUDY_130PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=377&amp;tags=Rudy Giuliani,Rudy Giuliani bankruptcy,georgia elections" title="Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani files for bankruptcy in New York" id="PL_iframe_block-m60i8v3i-q41kfycp-1hlts5p8"></iframe>
&ldquo;I am satisfied with and have no grievances relating to the result we have reached,&rdquo; Giuliani said, adding that it allowed him to retain his Manhattan apartment and Florida condominium, as well as all of his personal belongings.
The former NYC mayor also pointed out that no one deserved to be subjected to death threats, harassment or intimidation.
The Associated Press report said that Thursday's deal also led to the cancellation of a trial to decide the ownership of the 80-year-old's Florida condominium and three World Series rings that Giuliani, a prominent New York Yankees fan, had received from the team.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a statement, Giuliani said that the agreement satisfied the judgment against him but "does not involve an admission of liability or wrongdoing."

Disbarred US lawyer and former New York City (NYC) mayor Rudy Giuliani reached a deal on Thursday (January 16) that lets him keep his houses and belongings in exchange for unspecified compensation and a promise never to defame two election workers in Georgia who won a $148 million defamation judgment against him. A report by the news agency Associated Press early Friday said that the deal resolved all pending litigation against Giuliani, 80, and the former election workers. The former election workers were identified as Ruby Freeman and her daughter Wandrea Moss. 'A major milestone...' Freeman and Moss won the judgement in 2020 after saying that Giuliani’s lies about them following President-elect Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss led to death threats. Also read | Rudy Giuliani ordered to give New York apartment, Benz to two Georgia election workers for this reason “The past four years have been a living nightmare. We have fought to clear our names, restore our reputations, and prove that we did nothing wrong. Today is a major milestone in our journey,” they said in a statement. Freeman and Moss added that they allowed Giuliani to retain his property in exchange for compensation and his promise to never defame them. It is not yet known how much money the former NYC mayor would pay the women. 'Deal satisfies the judgment but...' In a statement, Giuliani said that the agreement satisfied the judgment against him but "does not involve an admission of liability or wrongdoing." Also watch | Rudy Giuliani files for bankruptcy in New York “I am satisfied with and have no grievances relating to the result we have reached,” Giuliani said, adding that it allowed him to retain his Manhattan apartment and Florida condominium, as well as all of his personal belongings. The former NYC mayor also pointed out that no one deserved to be subjected to death threats, harassment or intimidation. The Associated Press report said that Thursday's deal also led to the cancellation of a trial to decide the ownership of the 80-year-old's Florida condominium and three World Series rings that Giuliani, a prominent New York Yankees fan, had received from the team. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia election case: Rudy Giuliani agrees not to defame former state poll workers

Ukrainian police said Friday its officers were conducting 200 searches nationwide as part of an ongoing probe into the illegal exit of military-aged men from the country.
Kyiv has been pushing a sweeping and divisive mobilisation campaign to boost its military, which is struggling to hold back Russia's significantly larger army that is advancing across at several sectors across the front.
"The national police force is conducting more than 200 searches regarding cases of illegal border crossings" of Ukrainian men who are eligible for army service, the national police said in a statement.
The raids announced on Friday are just the latest step in a country-wide probe launched by law enforcement last week when Kyiv said police were searching some 600 homes, offices and other sites.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-play-leading-role-in-defending-ukraine-as-starmer-zelensky-ink-100-year-agreement-8627912">UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement</a>
Ukraine's divisive campaign to strengthen its military has spurred panic among fighting-aged men and has seen thousands flee the country towards Europe, sometimes utilising dangerous smuggling routes over mountains or rivers.
Last week, police said the operation was primarily targeting the organisers of schemes that help draft evaders to illegally cross the Ukrainian border.
Police said Friday that its searches were being conducted in 19 different regions and posted pictures of officers with weapons entering and cameras at what appeared to be private residences and offices.
Kyiv has been battling problems with systemic corruption within its military mobilisation infrastructure since the beginning of Russia's invasion in February 2022.
Late last year, Ukrainian former prosecutor general Andriy Kostin resigned after a probe uncovered a large-scale corruption scheme that apparently provided military draft exemptions for government officials.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | The raids announced on Friday are just the latest step in a country-wide probe launched by law enforcement last week when Kyiv said police were searching some 600 homes.

Ukrainian police said Friday its officers were conducting 200 searches nationwide as part of an ongoing probe into the illegal exit of military-aged men from the country. Kyiv has been pushing a sweeping and divisive mobilisation campaign to boost its military, which is struggling to hold back Russia's significantly larger army that is advancing across at several sectors across the front. "The national police force is conducting more than 200 searches regarding cases of illegal border crossings" of Ukrainian men who are eligible for army service, the national police said in a statement. The raids announced on Friday are just the latest step in a country-wide probe launched by law enforcement last week when Kyiv said police were searching some 600 homes, offices and other sites. Also read: UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement Ukraine's divisive campaign to strengthen its military has spurred panic among fighting-aged men and has seen thousands flee the country towards Europe, sometimes utilising dangerous smuggling routes over mountains or rivers. Last week, police said the operation was primarily targeting the organisers of schemes that help draft evaders to illegally cross the Ukrainian border. Police said Friday that its searches were being conducted in 19 different regions and posted pictures of officers with weapons entering and cameras at what appeared to be private residences and offices. Kyiv has been battling problems with systemic corruption within its military mobilisation infrastructure since the beginning of Russia's invasion in February 2022. Late last year, Ukrainian former prosecutor general Andriy Kostin resigned after a probe uncovered a large-scale corruption scheme that apparently provided military draft exemptions for government officials. 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.

Ukraine police launch massive raids amid probe into exodus of military-aged men

Donald Trump's imminent return to the White House as President of the United States has pushed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to close its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI).
According to a Fox News Digital report, the closure has already happened, in December 2024.
"In recent weeks, the FBI took steps to close the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), effective by December 2024," FBI told the news website.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-fact-checking-meta-dismantles-diversity-programmes-is-mark-zuckerberg-trying-to-appease-president-elect-donald-trump-8609188" aria-label="Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump?">Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump?</a>
<h2>Trump slams the FBI</h2>
The US President-elect took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to slam the FBI and claimed that the DEI office was closed due to "corruption".
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113840929878704254/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

"Why is it that they're closing one day before the Inauguration of a new administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!"
He demanded that the FBI must "preserve and retain all records, documents, and information on the now closing DEI Office" and said that the office "Never should have been opened and, if it was, should have closed long ago". &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-key-events-performers-and-security-details-all-you-need-to-know-about-donald-trump-swearing-in-8626719" aria-label="Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know">Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know</a>
<h2>Why did the FBI close its diversity office?</h2>
As per the report, the FBI did not specify why it closed down the office. However, the timing lends a clue that Trump might be the reason.
Many Republicans have been vocal about their opposition to practising diversity, equity and inclusion, and claim that these overshadow national security.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-wont-enforce-tiktok-ban-leaves-it-to-trump-as-january-19-deadline-approaches-8628535" aria-label="Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline looms">Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline looms</a>
Earlier this month, Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn in a letter to Cristopher Wray, the FBI director, alleged that "radical" DEI practices "endangered" Americans.&nbsp;
Referring to the New Year's Day terrorist attack in New Orleans, Blackburn in her Jan 3 letter wrote: "I am deeply concerned that&mdash;under your leadership&mdash;the Bureau has prioritised Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives over its core mission of protecting the American people".
<h2>Trump in, inclusivity out</h2>
Ahead of Trump's looming return, the FBI is not the only organisation to take a step away from diversity.&nbsp;
Recently on Jan 10, Mark Zuckerberg's Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced that it was dismantling its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes. Similarly, Amazon too scaled back its inclusivity programmes and in an internal announcement that it remained "dedicated to delivering inclusive experiences" but was altering its approach to focus on programmes with "proven outcomes".
Watch | Trump look-alike spotted in Pakistan | Gravitas
<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=https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1501_GVCHUNK_NEW_2_TRUMP_LOOKALIKE/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1501_GVCHUNK_NEW_2_TRUMP_LOOKALIKE.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=125&amp;tags=donald trump, pakistan, trump look-alike, gravitas," title="Trump look-alike sells spotted in Pakistan | Gravitas " id="PL_iframe_block-m60i2ilr-0trj10ph-o05814hs"></iframe>
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | The FBI has shut down its Office of Diversity and Inclusion ahead of Donald Trump's return as the President of the United States. Here's everything you need to know.

Donald Trump's imminent return to the White House as President of the United States has pushed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to close its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI). According to a Fox News Digital report, the closure has already happened, in December 2024. "In recent weeks, the FBI took steps to close the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), effective by December 2024," FBI told the news website. Also read | Meta dismantles diversity programmes after ending fact-checks. Is Zuckerberg trying to appease Trump? Trump slams the FBI The US President-elect took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to slam the FBI and claimed that the DEI office was closed due to "corruption". "Why is it that they're closing one day before the Inauguration of a new administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!" He demanded that the FBI must "preserve and retain all records, documents, and information on the now closing DEI Office" and said that the office "Never should have been opened and, if it was, should have closed long ago". Also read | Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know Why did the FBI close its diversity office? As per the report, the FBI did not specify why it closed down the office. However, the timing lends a clue that Trump might be the reason. Many Republicans have been vocal about their opposition to practising diversity, equity and inclusion, and claim that these overshadow national security. Also read | Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline looms Earlier this month, Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn in a letter to Cristopher Wray, the FBI director, alleged that "radical" DEI practices "endangered" Americans. Referring to the New Year's Day terrorist attack in New Orleans, Blackburn in her Jan 3 letter wrote: "I am deeply concerned that—under your leadership—the Bureau has prioritised Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives over its core mission of protecting the American people". Trump in, inclusivity out Ahead of Trump's looming return, the FBI is not the only organisation to take a step away from diversity. Recently on Jan 10, Mark Zuckerberg's Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced that it was dismantling its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes. Similarly, Amazon too scaled back its inclusivity programmes and in an internal announcement that it remained "dedicated to delivering inclusive experiences" but was altering its approach to focus on programmes with "proven outcomes". Watch | Trump look-alike spotted in Pakistan | Gravitas (With inputs from agencies)

FBI closes its diversity office ahead of Trump's return to White House, US president-elect alleges 'corruption'

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that a deal had been reached to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza, finalizing a long-awaited ceasefire that would pause 15 months of brutal conflict.
"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been updated by the negotiating team that agreements have been reached on a deal for the release of the hostages," his office said in a post on X.
<h2>Netanyahu directed Security Cabinet to be convened later today</h2>
The Prime Minister also directed that the Security Cabinet be convened later today (Friday). The government will be convened to approve the deal. Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed his appreciation for the negotiating team and all those who assisted.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-american-hostages-to-be-released-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-8627525" title="Who are the American hostages to be released in Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal?" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-american-hostages-to-be-released-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-8627525</a>
The Prime Minister's Office Authority for the Hostages and Missing has updated the families of the hostages. The Prime Minister has also directed the Coordinator for the Hostages and the Missing to coordinate the preparations to receive the hostages upon their return to Israel.
Netanyahu's statement followed earlier reports of snags in negotiations but now paves the way for Israel&rsquo;s security Cabinet to meet and vote on the agreement.
<h2>Israel strikes Gaza within hours of ceasefire accord with Hamas</h2>
Meanwhile, Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, residents and authorities in the Palestinian enclave said, as mediators sought to quell fighting ahead of the truce's start on Sunday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882" title="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882</a>
While people celebrated the pact in Gaza and Israel, Israel's military conducted more attacks after the announcement, the civil emergency service and residents said.
On Thursday, Gaza militants fired a rocket into Israel, the Israeli military said, causing no casualties. However, Israeli airstrikes throughout the night and early on Thursday killed at least 46 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials.
<h2>Donald Trump takes credit for breakthrough in Gaza</h2>
Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump claimed credit for the breakthrough in Gaza.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the Republican claimed credit for the ceasefire deal and said: "This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signalled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans and our Allies".
<h2>What is a ceasefire deal?</h2>
The ceasefire deal was first announced on Wednesday by mediators the US and Qatar.
The deal outlines a six-week initial ceasefire with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, where thousands have been killed. Hostages taken by Hamas would be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel.&nbsp;
Additionally, the agreement will allow displaced Palestinians in Gaza to return to the ruins of their homes, while humanitarian aid will be able to enter the war-torn territory.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: In a crucial development, agreements for the release of hostages were confirmed by Prime Minister Netanyahu, highlighting a key moment in negotiation efforts.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that a deal had been reached to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza, finalizing a long-awaited ceasefire that would pause 15 months of brutal conflict. "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been updated by the negotiating team that agreements have been reached on a deal for the release of the hostages," his office said in a post on X. Netanyahu directed Security Cabinet to be convened later today The Prime Minister also directed that the Security Cabinet be convened later today (Friday). The government will be convened to approve the deal. Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed his appreciation for the negotiating team and all those who assisted. Also read | https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-american-hostages-to-be-released-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-8627525 The Prime Minister's Office Authority for the Hostages and Missing has updated the families of the hostages. The Prime Minister has also directed the Coordinator for the Hostages and the Missing to coordinate the preparations to receive the hostages upon their return to Israel. Netanyahu's statement followed earlier reports of snags in negotiations but now paves the way for Israel’s security Cabinet to meet and vote on the agreement. Israel strikes Gaza within hours of ceasefire accord with Hamas Meanwhile, Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, residents and authorities in the Palestinian enclave said, as mediators sought to quell fighting ahead of the truce's start on Sunday. Also read | https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882 While people celebrated the pact in Gaza and Israel, Israel's military conducted more attacks after the announcement, the civil emergency service and residents said. On Thursday, Gaza militants fired a rocket into Israel, the Israeli military said, causing no casualties. However, Israeli airstrikes throughout the night and early on Thursday killed at least 46 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials. Donald Trump takes credit for breakthrough in Gaza Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump claimed credit for the breakthrough in Gaza. In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, the Republican claimed credit for the ceasefire deal and said: "This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signalled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans and our Allies". What is a ceasefire deal? The ceasefire deal was first announced on Wednesday by mediators the US and Qatar. The deal outlines a six-week initial ceasefire with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, where thousands have been killed. Hostages taken by Hamas would be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel. Additionally, the agreement will allow displaced Palestinians in Gaza to return to the ruins of their homes, while humanitarian aid will be able to enter the war-torn territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu says 'deal to release hostages' reached; strikes Gaza within hours of ceasefire accord

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg last week set the cat among the pigeons by saying he thought the corporate world had become &ldquo;culturally neutered&rdquo; and needed &ldquo;masculine energy&rdquo; to fire up. He made these comments on Joe Rogan&rsquo;s podcast soon after taking drastic steps that indicated Meta&rsquo;s sharp turn towards the right. Earlier, Zuckerberg announced Meta was going to bury fact-checking and DEI initiatives ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
&ldquo;I do think a lot of our society has become&hellip;kind of like neutered, or like emasculated,&rdquo; Zuckerberg said. &ldquo;When you are running a company, people don&rsquo;t want to see you being like this ruthless person.&rdquo;
<h2>Comments spark outrage</h2>
Zuckerberg&rsquo;s comments didn&rsquo;t go down well with professionals and techies, who were quick to condemn the META CEO&rsquo;s newfound chauvinism.
Mark Lemley, an attorney who earlier represented Meta in a lawsuit concerning the alleged use of copyright texts for training artificial intelligence, said he was dropping the company as a client following what he called &ldquo;Facebook&rsquo;s descent into toxic masculinity and Neo-Nazi madness.&rdquo;
The Stanford Law School professor&rsquo;s name was later removed from Meta&rsquo;s roster.
Though the lawyer agreed that Meta was on the right side of the copyright case, he said, &ldquo;I cannot in good conscience serve as their lawyer any longer.&rdquo;
The attorney alleged that Meta was allowing &ldquo;allegations of mental illness or abnormality when based on gender or sexual orientation&rdquo;.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-supporters-press-zuckerberg-to-release-facebook-files-as-meta-steers-to-right-8623982">Trump supporters press Zuckerberg to release Facebook Files as Meta steers to right</a>
Zuckerberg&rsquo;s comments also drew a sharp rebuke from Kelley Greene, a techie working in the tech industry for 15 years. &ldquo;As a woman who spent 15 years working in the tech industry, I absolutely disagree,&rdquo; she wrote in a hard-hitting op-ed.
&ldquo;During my career, as I walked past ping-pong tables and kegerators, shrugged off inappropriate jokes, got asked to take notes in meetings, and had my ideas dismissed, I never once felt a lack of masculine energy,&rdquo; the techie quipped.
&ldquo;Tech has always been a boys&rsquo; club,&rdquo; she added.
<h2>Reactions on social media</h2>
On social media too, people went all guns blazing after Zuckerberg.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-mark-zuckerberg-firing-employees-in-meta-ahead-of-fy2025-8623819">Why is Mark Zuckerberg firing employees in Meta ahead of FY2025?</a>
&ldquo;Perfect example of someone changing their opinion as soon as the government changes,&rdquo; wrote one user.
&ldquo;Bro watching too much Andrew Tate,&rdquo; another added.
&ldquo;This dude is panicking. I don&rsquo;t believe a thing he&rsquo;s saying for a second,&rdquo; a third added.

World | Zuckerberg’s comments didn’t go down well with professionals and techies, who were quick to condemn the META CEO’s newfound chauvinism.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg last week set the cat among the pigeons by saying he thought the corporate world had become “culturally neutered” and needed “masculine energy” to fire up. He made these comments on Joe Rogan’s podcast soon after taking drastic steps that indicated Meta’s sharp turn towards the right. Earlier, Zuckerberg announced Meta was going to bury fact-checking and DEI initiatives ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. “I do think a lot of our society has become…kind of like neutered, or like emasculated,” Zuckerberg said. “When you are running a company, people don’t want to see you being like this ruthless person.” Comments spark outrage Zuckerberg’s comments didn’t go down well with professionals and techies, who were quick to condemn the META CEO’s newfound chauvinism. Mark Lemley, an attorney who earlier represented Meta in a lawsuit concerning the alleged use of copyright texts for training artificial intelligence, said he was dropping the company as a client following what he called “Facebook’s descent into toxic masculinity and Neo-Nazi madness.” The Stanford Law School professor’s name was later removed from Meta’s roster. Though the lawyer agreed that Meta was on the right side of the copyright case, he said, “I cannot in good conscience serve as their lawyer any longer.” The attorney alleged that Meta was allowing “allegations of mental illness or abnormality when based on gender or sexual orientation”. Also read: Trump supporters press Zuckerberg to release Facebook Files as Meta steers to right Zuckerberg’s comments also drew a sharp rebuke from Kelley Greene, a techie working in the tech industry for 15 years. “As a woman who spent 15 years working in the tech industry, I absolutely disagree,” she wrote in a hard-hitting op-ed. “During my career, as I walked past ping-pong tables and kegerators, shrugged off inappropriate jokes, got asked to take notes in meetings, and had my ideas dismissed, I never once felt a lack of masculine energy,” the techie quipped. “Tech has always been a boys’ club,” she added. Reactions on social media On social media too, people went all guns blazing after Zuckerberg. Also read: Why is Mark Zuckerberg firing employees in Meta ahead of FY2025? “Perfect example of someone changing their opinion as soon as the government changes,” wrote one user. “Bro watching too much Andrew Tate,” another added. “This dude is panicking. I don’t believe a thing he’s saying for a second,” a third added.

‘Neo-Nazi madness': Zuckerberg slammed by Meta lawyer, techie over ‘masculine energy’ comment

Sai Varshith Kandula, an Indian-origin man in the United States (US), was on Thursday (January 16) sentenced to eight years in prison after he crashed a rental truck into the barriers protecting the White House.
Kandula, a resident of Missouri, was inspired by his fascination with Nazi ideology and carried out the attack on May 22, 2023.&nbsp;
Kandula, 20, nearly struck two people standing next to a park bench when he steered a U-Haul box truck onto a sidewalk and towards metal bollards that prevent vehicles from entering Lafayette Square, which is located north of the White House.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-was-never-an-ally-of-us-white-house-john-kirby-joe-biden-8624608" rel="dofollow">Pakistan was never an ally of US, technical or tactical: White House official John Kirby</a>
The 20-year-old man retrieved a Nazi flag from a backpack post the crash.
<h2>The sentence</h2>
Prosecutors said on Thursday that Kandula wanted to attack and destroy the US government. "He wanted to eliminate the democratic process in America and replace the government with a Nazi-style dictatorship."
Citing court records, a report by the news agency Associated Press said that US District Judge Dabney Friedrich also sentenced Kandula to three years of supervised release following his prison term and ordered him to pay nearly $57,000 in restitution.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-protesters-disrupt-senate-confirmation-hearings-for-trumps-cabinet-choices-8628907" rel="dofollow">Several protesters in US disrupt Senate confirmation hearings for Trump's cabinet choices</a>
Kandula's defence lawyer Scott Rosenblum said that his client was suffering from schizophrenia and was overwhelmed by delusional thoughts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He&rsquo;s amenable to treatment, understands its necessity, and recognizes an illness produced the acts that led to his current circumstances,&rdquo; Rosenblum added.
<h2>Kandula planned the attack for weeks</h2>
Prosecutors said that Kandula planned the attack for weeks before he took a flight from St Louis to Washington DC, only hours before the crash.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-names-david-sacks-as-white-house-ai-and-crypto-czar-781933" rel="dofollow">Trump names David Sacks as White House AI and Crypto Czar</a>
&ldquo;He specifically praised Adolf Hitler. And it wasn&rsquo;t just words &mdash; when his truck was disabled in the attack, the first thing he did was unfurl the flag of Nazi Germany,&rdquo; prosecutors added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Kandula's defence lawyer Scott Rosenblum said on Thursday that his client was suffering from schizophrenia and was overwhelmed by delusional thoughts. 

Sai Varshith Kandula, an Indian-origin man in the United States (US), was on Thursday (January 16) sentenced to eight years in prison after he crashed a rental truck into the barriers protecting the White House. Kandula, a resident of Missouri, was inspired by his fascination with Nazi ideology and carried out the attack on May 22, 2023. Kandula, 20, nearly struck two people standing next to a park bench when he steered a U-Haul box truck onto a sidewalk and towards metal bollards that prevent vehicles from entering Lafayette Square, which is located north of the White House. Also read | Pakistan was never an ally of US, technical or tactical: White House official John Kirby The 20-year-old man retrieved a Nazi flag from a backpack post the crash. The sentence Prosecutors said on Thursday that Kandula wanted to attack and destroy the US government. "He wanted to eliminate the democratic process in America and replace the government with a Nazi-style dictatorship." Citing court records, a report by the news agency Associated Press said that US District Judge Dabney Friedrich also sentenced Kandula to three years of supervised release following his prison term and ordered him to pay nearly $57,000 in restitution. Also read | Several protesters in US disrupt Senate confirmation hearings for Trump's cabinet choices Kandula's defence lawyer Scott Rosenblum said that his client was suffering from schizophrenia and was overwhelmed by delusional thoughts. “He’s amenable to treatment, understands its necessity, and recognizes an illness produced the acts that led to his current circumstances,” Rosenblum added. Kandula planned the attack for weeks Prosecutors said that Kandula planned the attack for weeks before he took a flight from St Louis to Washington DC, only hours before the crash. Also read | Trump names David Sacks as White House AI and Crypto Czar “He specifically praised Adolf Hitler. And it wasn’t just words — when his truck was disabled in the attack, the first thing he did was unfurl the flag of Nazi Germany,” prosecutors added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin Nazi sympathiser imprisoned for eight years for 2023 White House attack

US President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 16) said that the hostage and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas better be finalised before he assumes office on Monday (Jan 20).&nbsp;
During a podcast interview with Dan Bongino, Trump claimed that his involvement was crucial for the negotiation, and said: "We changed the course of it".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-protesters-disrupt-senate-confirmation-hearings-for-trumps-cabinet-choices-8628907">Several protesters in US disrupt Senate confirmation hearings for Trump's cabinet choices</a>
<h2>'It better be done'</h2>
Trump claimed that they changed the course of the negotiations and "we changed it fast".
He also remarked that "frankly" the deal needs "better be done before I take the oath of office" and said&nbsp;that "we shook hands, and we signed certain documents, but it better be done."
The Republican also slammed his political rival Democrat President Joe Biden and claimed that Biden did nothing for the deal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-five-key-details-you-need-to-know-about-the-truce-between-israel-and-hamas-8625972" aria-label="Gaza ceasefire deal: Five key details you need to know about the truce">Gaza ceasefire deal: Five key details you need to know about the truce</a>
"I'm not looking for credit. I want to get these people out...We've got to get them out," he said.
He likened the situation to the Iran hostage crisis, where 52 US hostages were held captive by Iran for 444 days during the late Jimmy Carter's presidency. They were freed after his successor Ronald Reagan took over the office.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-biden-and-trump-two-presidents-one-truce-who-gets-the-credit-8625582" aria-label="Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?">Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?</a>
The Israeli hostages have been in Hamas captivity for 470 days. "For three years they&rsquo;ve lived like in hell," said Trump, adding "We gotta get them out, and it&rsquo;ll be great when we do."&nbsp;
<h2>When will the Gaza truce start?</h2>
The Gaza truce is expected to begin Sunday, however, this depends on Israeli government approval which is still pending, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming that a "last-minute crisis" was holding the approval.
As per reports, the Israel security cabinet is set to meet Friday (Jan 17) after final details.
Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Ben Gvir says his party will quit if cabinet implements Gaza ceasefire deal
<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/1701_ben_830am_pkwo/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1701_ben_830am_pkwo.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=382&amp;tags=israel, gaza, gaza war, israel gaza war, israel hamas war," title="Israel-Hamas War: Ben Gvir says his party will quit if cabinet implements Gaza ceasefire deal" id="PL_iframe_block-m60dgkwa-824ea4nt-fme1yhm6"></iframe>If approved by Israel's cabinet, the ceasefire deal would take effect Sunday. The United States has said that it was "confident" that the truce will happen.
The deal will involve the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, after which the terms of a permanent end to the war would be finalised.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World news | Donald Trump urged a Gaza truce to be finalised before his inauguration and emphasised the important role he played in the negotiations.

US President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 16) said that the hostage and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas better be finalised before he assumes office on Monday (Jan 20). During a podcast interview with Dan Bongino, Trump claimed that his involvement was crucial for the negotiation, and said: "We changed the course of it". Also read | Several protesters in US disrupt Senate confirmation hearings for Trump's cabinet choices 'It better be done' Trump claimed that they changed the course of the negotiations and "we changed it fast". He also remarked that "frankly" the deal needs "better be done before I take the oath of office" and said that "we shook hands, and we signed certain documents, but it better be done." The Republican also slammed his political rival Democrat President Joe Biden and claimed that Biden did nothing for the deal. Also read | Gaza ceasefire deal: Five key details you need to know about the truce "I'm not looking for credit. I want to get these people out...We've got to get them out," he said. He likened the situation to the Iran hostage crisis, where 52 US hostages were held captive by Iran for 444 days during the late Jimmy Carter's presidency. They were freed after his successor Ronald Reagan took over the office. Also read | Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The Israeli hostages have been in Hamas captivity for 470 days. "For three years they’ve lived like in hell," said Trump, adding "We gotta get them out, and it’ll be great when we do." When will the Gaza truce start? The Gaza truce is expected to begin Sunday, however, this depends on Israeli government approval which is still pending, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming that a "last-minute crisis" was holding the approval. As per reports, the Israel security cabinet is set to meet Friday (Jan 17) after final details. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Ben Gvir says his party will quit if cabinet implements Gaza ceasefire deal If approved by Israel's cabinet, the ceasefire deal would take effect Sunday. The United States has said that it was "confident" that the truce will happen. The deal will involve the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, after which the terms of a permanent end to the war would be finalised. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump says Gaza truce 'better be done' before his inauguration

Several protesters disrupted Wednesday's (January 15) Senate confirmation hearings for United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump's choices to join his cabinet.&nbsp;
According to American media reports, Wednesday was chock full of Senate hearings, including Pam Bondi for attorney general, Marco Rubio for secretary of state, John Ratcliffe for CIA chief, Sean Duffy for transportation secretary, Chris Wright for energy secretary, and Russel Vought for the office of management and budget.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/human-rights-watch-chief-warns-trumps-return-will-threaten-worlds-fraying-rights-system-8628373" rel="dofollow">Human Rights Watch chief warns Trump's return will threaten world's fraying rights system</a>
Protesters from the group Code Pink disrupted the hearings of Rubio and Wright a handful of times.
<h2>'Rubio is a warhawk...'</h2>
A report by The Hill&nbsp;said that Code Pink members piled into Rubio's hearing against the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
The protesters sat in three rows with their hands painted in red to symbolise the bloodshed.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, Adnaan was arrested for disrupting Marco Rubio's confirmation hearing to become Secretary of State. Here's what he had to say. <a href="https://t.co/WXJaWtFZsm">pic.twitter.com/WXJaWtFZsm</a>
&mdash; CODEPINK (@codepink) <a href="https://twitter.com/codepink/status/1879624848215073035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

In a post on X, Code Pink said, "Peace activists say NO to Rubio for Secretary of State. He&rsquo;s not a diplomat &ndash; he&rsquo;s a warhawk."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-state-dept-marco-rubio-calls-for-bold-diplomacy-to-end-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-8625151" rel="dofollow">Trump State Dept Marco Rubio calls for 'bold diplomacy' to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine</a>
The report by The Hill said that as Rubio discussed foreign policy during the hearing, a protester yelled in Spanish, sharing her opposition to sanctions on Latin American countries.
&ldquo;I get bilingual protest,&rdquo; Rubio joked after the outburst.
(With inputs from agencies)

Wednesday was chock full of Senate hearings, including Pam Bondi for attorney general, Marco Rubio for secretary of state, John Ratcliffe for CIA chief among others

Several protesters disrupted Wednesday's (January 15) Senate confirmation hearings for United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump's choices to join his cabinet. According to American media reports, Wednesday was chock full of Senate hearings, including Pam Bondi for attorney general, Marco Rubio for secretary of state, John Ratcliffe for CIA chief, Sean Duffy for transportation secretary, Chris Wright for energy secretary, and Russel Vought for the office of management and budget. Also read | Human Rights Watch chief warns Trump's return will threaten world's fraying rights system Protesters from the group Code Pink disrupted the hearings of Rubio and Wright a handful of times. 'Rubio is a warhawk...' A report by The Hill said that Code Pink members piled into Rubio's hearing against the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. The protesters sat in three rows with their hands painted in red to symbolise the bloodshed. Today, Adnaan was arrested for disrupting Marco Rubio's confirmation hearing to become Secretary of State. Here's what he had to say. pic.twitter.com/WXJaWtFZsm — CODEPINK (@codepink) January 15, 2025 In a post on X, Code Pink said, "Peace activists say NO to Rubio for Secretary of State. He’s not a diplomat – he’s a warhawk." Also read | Trump State Dept Marco Rubio calls for 'bold diplomacy' to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine The report by The Hill said that as Rubio discussed foreign policy during the hearing, a protester yelled in Spanish, sharing her opposition to sanctions on Latin American countries. “I get bilingual protest,” Rubio joked after the outburst. (With inputs from agencies)

Several protesters in US disrupt Senate confirmation hearings for Trump's cabinet choices

Over 40 Pakistani migrants tragically died after a boat bound for Spain capsized near Morocco.
In the US, President Joe Biden has opted not to enforce the TikTok ban, leaving the decision to President-elect Donald Trump as the January 19 deadline nears.
South Korea&rsquo;s suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol has defied questioning for the second day following his arrest over a failed martial law attempt.
Meanwhile, SpaceX&rsquo;s Starship rocket exploded mid-flight. "At this point in time, we can confirm we did lose the ship," SpaceX's Kate Tice said during a webcast.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-40-pakistanis-die-after-boat-en-route-to-spain-capsizes-near-morocco-pm-sharif-reacts-helena-maleno-pakistan-foreign-office-rabat-crisis-management-unit-8628545" aria-label="Over 40 Pakistanis die after boat en route to Spain capsizes near Morocco; PM Sharif reacts">Over 40 Pakistanis die after boat en route to Spain capsizes near Morocco; PM Sharif reacts</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/17/ufGszWpET0mMlB43vdgV.webp" alt=" File Photo. A 'cayuco' boat with 57 migrants onboard arrives at La Restinga port on the Canary island of El Hierro, on September 14, 2024. Photograph:(AFP) ">
In a tragic incident, over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after a boat carrying 80 migrants en route to Spain capsized near Morocco, said Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-wont-enforce-tiktok-ban-leaves-it-to-trump-as-january-19-deadline-approaches-8628535" aria-label="Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches">Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/TQSraYsYwLyKCN8vyT1I.jpg" alt=" Donald Trump, TikTok Photograph: (AFP) ">
US President Joe Biden has decided to not enforce the looming ban on popular video app TikTok, suggest reports citing an unidentified US official. The ban on TikTok, a popular Chinese-owned social media app, was set to take effect just one day before Biden leaves office, but will now be left for the incoming Trump administration to handle.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-suspended-president-yoon-suk-yeol-defies-second-day-of-questioning-after-arrest-amid-martial-law-probe-8628565" aria-label="South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe">South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/12/FKIzyBbTV12J1P5LMEZK.jpg" alt=" South Korean president, Yoon Suk Yeol Photograph: (Reuters) ">
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday (Jan 17) once again refused to appear for questioning over his controversial attempt to declare martial law. The embattled leader has been held in custody since his unprecedented arrest on Wednesday (Jan 15) and, as per reports, remains at the Seoul Detention Centre.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/spacexs-starship-rocket-launch-upper-stage-lost-during-seventh-orbital-test-confirms-elon-musks-company-8628497" aria-label="SpaceX's Starship explodes mid-flight, upper stage lost, confirms Elon Musk's company">SpaceX's Starship explodes mid-flight, upper stage lost, confirms Elon Musk's company</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/17/orflPeezMSTkR3Np2N8u.png" alt=" In this screen grab taken from the SpaceX broadcast the SpaceX Starship lifts off from Starbase near Boca Chica, Texas, on January 16, 2025, for the Starship Flight 7 test. After Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin nailed its first-ever orbital flight, Elon Musk's SpaceX seized back the spotlight on January 16 with the latest launch of Starship, the gargantuan next-generation rocket that could one day ferry humans to Mars. A taller, improved version of the biggest and most powerful launch vehicle ever built blasted off from the company's Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, at 4:37 pm (2237 GMT) for its seventh orbital test. Photograph: (AFP) ">
SpaceX's ambitious Starship test flight ended in disaster on Thursday (Jan 16) when the rocket&rsquo;s upper stage exploded over the Atlantic Ocean. This setback came just hours after Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin celebrated its first successful orbital mission.
Watch | Netanyahu accused Hamas of seeking last-minute changes to the deal
<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/1701_trukiye_full_730am_pkwo/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1701_trukiye_full_730am_pkwo.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=688&amp;tags=israel, gaza, gaza war, israel gaza war, israel hamas war, netanyahu," title="Israel-Hamas War: Israeli security cabinet to vote on Gaza ceasefire deal" id="PL_iframe_block-m608ls20-2u2543uk-9u8xp3h9"></iframe>

Stay ahead of the day's events with WION's morning news brief, providing a quick yet comprehensive overview of the most important news from around the world.

Over 40 Pakistani migrants tragically died after a boat bound for Spain capsized near Morocco. In the US, President Joe Biden has opted not to enforce the TikTok ban, leaving the decision to President-elect Donald Trump as the January 19 deadline nears. South Korea’s suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol has defied questioning for the second day following his arrest over a failed martial law attempt. Meanwhile, SpaceX’s Starship rocket exploded mid-flight. "At this point in time, we can confirm we did lose the ship," SpaceX's Kate Tice said during a webcast. Click on the headlines for more Over 40 Pakistanis die after boat en route to Spain capsizes near Morocco; PM Sharif reacts In a tragic incident, over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after a boat carrying 80 migrants en route to Spain capsized near Morocco, said Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16). Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches US President Joe Biden has decided to not enforce the looming ban on popular video app TikTok, suggest reports citing an unidentified US official. The ban on TikTok, a popular Chinese-owned social media app, was set to take effect just one day before Biden leaves office, but will now be left for the incoming Trump administration to handle. South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday (Jan 17) once again refused to appear for questioning over his controversial attempt to declare martial law. The embattled leader has been held in custody since his unprecedented arrest on Wednesday (Jan 15) and, as per reports, remains at the Seoul Detention Centre. SpaceX's Starship explodes mid-flight, upper stage lost, confirms Elon Musk's company SpaceX's ambitious Starship test flight ended in disaster on Thursday (Jan 16) when the rocket’s upper stage exploded over the Atlantic Ocean. This setback came just hours after Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin celebrated its first successful orbital mission. Watch | Netanyahu accused Hamas of seeking last-minute changes to the deal

Morning news brief: 40 Pakistani migrants drown; SpaceX Starship explodes mid-flight, and more

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday (Jan 17) once again refused to appear for questioning over his controversial attempt to declare martial law. The embattled leader has been held in custody since his unprecedented arrest on Wednesday (Jan 15) and, as per reports, remains at the Seoul Detention Centre.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
According to reports, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) summoned Yoon for further interrogation on Thursday (Jan 16) after he failed to appear.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-president-yoon-suk-yeols-dramatic-arrest-what-took-so-long-and-whats-next-8624354">Yoon Suk Yeol's dramatic arrest: What took so long and what's next?</a>
Yoon's questioning was due to resume at 2 pm (0500 GMT). However, his lawyers declined, claiming health issues among other things.
Seok Dong-hyeon, Yoon's attorney and close associate, stated, "The president will not appear at the CIO today," and that "He thoroughly stated his basic position during the CIO's questioning the first day and doesn't see any reason or need to respond to a question-and-answer type of interrogation."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-south-korea-investigators-arrest-suspended-president-yoon-after-storming-his-residence-over-failed-martial-law-bid-8622418" aria-label="South Korea's suspended president Yoon arrested, says surrendered to avoid 'bloodshed'">South Korea's suspended president Yoon arrested, says surrendered to avoid 'bloodshed'</a>
<h2>A historic arrest</h2>
Yoon's detention marks a historic first for a sitting South Korean president. He has been held in a detention centre since Wednesday night when officials apprehended him at his residence, a dramatic arrest that saw police scale the walls to storm his "fortress".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dark-history-of-south-korean-presidents-exiled-impeached-shot-jailed-8624096">Dark history of South Korean presidents: Exiled, impeached, shot, jailed</a>
Authorities are investigating whether Yoon's brief attempt to impose martial law on December 3 amounted to insurrection&mdash;a charge punishable by life imprisonment or, in extreme cases, the death penalty. The parliament swiftly overturned the martial law declaration, following which Yoon was impeached.
Yoon's team claims that the arrest warrant against him is illegal. They have filed a complaint against the CIO chief and some police officials over the warrant against the suspended president. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-mela-2025-sees-record-attendance-70-million-devotees-dip-in-sacred-waters-8628506">Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 sees record attendance, 70 million devotees take a dip in sacred waters</a>
The CIO has until Friday night (when the 48-hour deadline expires) to release Yoon or seek a new arrest warrant extending detention by 20 days.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is conducting hearings to determine whether to remove Yoon from office permanently or reinstate his presidential powers.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol skips questioning amid martial law probe, remaining in custody after a historic arrest on Wednesday.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday (Jan 17) once again refused to appear for questioning over his controversial attempt to declare martial law. The embattled leader has been held in custody since his unprecedented arrest on Wednesday (Jan 15) and, as per reports, remains at the Seoul Detention Centre. What happened? According to reports, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) summoned Yoon for further interrogation on Thursday (Jan 16) after he failed to appear. Also read | Yoon Suk Yeol's dramatic arrest: What took so long and what's next? Yoon's questioning was due to resume at 2 pm (0500 GMT). However, his lawyers declined, claiming health issues among other things. Seok Dong-hyeon, Yoon's attorney and close associate, stated, "The president will not appear at the CIO today," and that "He thoroughly stated his basic position during the CIO's questioning the first day and doesn't see any reason or need to respond to a question-and-answer type of interrogation." Also read | South Korea's suspended president Yoon arrested, says surrendered to avoid 'bloodshed' A historic arrest Yoon's detention marks a historic first for a sitting South Korean president. He has been held in a detention centre since Wednesday night when officials apprehended him at his residence, a dramatic arrest that saw police scale the walls to storm his "fortress". Also read | Dark history of South Korean presidents: Exiled, impeached, shot, jailed Authorities are investigating whether Yoon's brief attempt to impose martial law on December 3 amounted to insurrection—a charge punishable by life imprisonment or, in extreme cases, the death penalty. The parliament swiftly overturned the martial law declaration, following which Yoon was impeached. Yoon's team claims that the arrest warrant against him is illegal. They have filed a complaint against the CIO chief and some police officials over the warrant against the suspended president. Also read | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 sees record attendance, 70 million devotees take a dip in sacred waters The CIO has until Friday night (when the 48-hour deadline expires) to release Yoon or seek a new arrest warrant extending detention by 20 days. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is conducting hearings to determine whether to remove Yoon from office permanently or reinstate his presidential powers. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's suspended President Yoon refuses to be questioned, for the second day

In a tragic incident, over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after a boat carrying 80 migrants en route to Spain capsized near Morocco, said the Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16).
As per the migrant rights group, Walking Borders, up to 50 people may have drowned in the tragedy.
Moroccan authorities managed to rescue 36 people a day earlier from the boat that had left Mauritania on January 2 with 86 migrants, including 66 Pakistanis.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-wont-enforce-tiktok-ban-leaves-it-to-trump-as-january-19-deadline-approaches-8628535" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches</a>
Walking Borders CEO Helena Maleno said that 44 of those who died were Pakistanis.
"Fifty people died on a boat heading to the Canary Islands, forty-four of the victims were Pakistanis. They spent 13 days of anguish on the crossing without anyone coming to rescue them," she wrote on X.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🔴TRAGEDIA. Mueren cincuenta personas en un cayuco que se dirig&iacute;a a las islas Canarias, cuarenta y cuatro de las v&iacute;ctimas eran paquistan&iacute;es. Pasaron trece d&iacute;as de angustiosa traves&iacute;a sin que llegar&aacute; el rescate.
&mdash; Helena Maleno Garz&oacute;n (@HelenaMaleno) <a href="https://twitter.com/HelenaMaleno/status/1879791185079803932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

<h2>Team from the Pakistan embassy sent to help victims</h2>
The Pakistan Foreign Office stated that its embassy in Morocco is in constant communication with local authorities to assist with rescue operations. A team from the Pakistani embassy in Morocco has also been sent to Dakhla to support Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-suspended-president-yoon-suk-yeol-defies-second-day-of-questioning-after-arrest-amid-martial-law-probe-8628565">South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe</a>
"Our Embassy in Rabat (Morocco) has informed us, that a boat carrying 80 passengers, including several Pakistani nationals, setting off from Mauritania, has capsized near the Moroccan port of Dakhla. Several survivors, including Pakistanis, are lodged in a camp near Dakhla. Our Embassy in Rabat is in touch with local authorities. Additionally, a team from the Embassy has been dispatched to Dakhla to facilitate the Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance," the statement said.
The Crisis Management Unit in the Foreign Ministry has also been activated.
"The Crisis Management Unit (CMU) in the Foreign Ministry has been activated and the Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister has instructed the relevant Government agencies to extend all possible facilitation to the affected Pakistanis," the Pakistan Foreign Office added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lakshadweep-indian-coast-guard-rescues-54-passengers-from-stranded-vessel-8624692">Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel</a>
<h2>PM Sharif expresses grief over the incident</h2>
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief for those who lost their lives in the incident. He also directed the Foreign Ministry to coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy.
"Deeply disturbing news of a boat capsizing off the coast of Morocco, carrying over 80 passengers including several Pakistanis, has come as a shock to me and to the entire nation. I have directed our Foreign Ministry to instruct its staff in Morocco to urgently ascertain the facts and coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy," PM Sharif posted on X.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-bangladesh-exchange-185-fishermen-in-mutual-repatriation-effort-8594122">India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort</a>
The PM also assured that strict action would be taken against those involved in the heinous act of human trafficking.
"We will continue to crack down hard on human traffickers and agents in Pakistan who lure innocent citizens into this dangerous trap," he said.
<h2>Similar incident happened in December, 2024</h2>
This incident comes a month after more than 80 Pakistanis drowned after boats carrying them capsized near Greece on the night between December 13 and 14, 2024.
Although, as many as 36 Pakistani citizens were rescued, the rest remain missing which, as per a report from the Pakistani Embassy, should be presumed dead.
The boats, which departed from Libya's Tobruk port also carried Bangladeshi, Egyptian and Sudanese nationals.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief, directed urgent coordination for missing persons, and vowed to combat human trafficking networks.

In a tragic incident, over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after a boat carrying 80 migrants en route to Spain capsized near Morocco, said the Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16). As per the migrant rights group, Walking Borders, up to 50 people may have drowned in the tragedy. Moroccan authorities managed to rescue 36 people a day earlier from the boat that had left Mauritania on January 2 with 86 migrants, including 66 Pakistanis. Also read | Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches Walking Borders CEO Helena Maleno said that 44 of those who died were Pakistanis. "Fifty people died on a boat heading to the Canary Islands, forty-four of the victims were Pakistanis. They spent 13 days of anguish on the crossing without anyone coming to rescue them," she wrote on X. 🔴TRAGEDIA. Mueren cincuenta personas en un cayuco que se dirigía a las islas Canarias, cuarenta y cuatro de las víctimas eran paquistaníes. Pasaron trece días de angustiosa travesía sin que llegará el rescate. — Helena Maleno Garzón (@HelenaMaleno) January 16, 2025 Team from the Pakistan embassy sent to help victims The Pakistan Foreign Office stated that its embassy in Morocco is in constant communication with local authorities to assist with rescue operations. A team from the Pakistani embassy in Morocco has also been sent to Dakhla to support Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance. Also read | South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe "Our Embassy in Rabat (Morocco) has informed us, that a boat carrying 80 passengers, including several Pakistani nationals, setting off from Mauritania, has capsized near the Moroccan port of Dakhla. Several survivors, including Pakistanis, are lodged in a camp near Dakhla. Our Embassy in Rabat is in touch with local authorities. Additionally, a team from the Embassy has been dispatched to Dakhla to facilitate the Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance," the statement said. The Crisis Management Unit in the Foreign Ministry has also been activated. "The Crisis Management Unit (CMU) in the Foreign Ministry has been activated and the Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister has instructed the relevant Government agencies to extend all possible facilitation to the affected Pakistanis," the Pakistan Foreign Office added. Also read | Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel PM Sharif expresses grief over the incident Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief for those who lost their lives in the incident. He also directed the Foreign Ministry to coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy. "Deeply disturbing news of a boat capsizing off the coast of Morocco, carrying over 80 passengers including several Pakistanis, has come as a shock to me and to the entire nation. I have directed our Foreign Ministry to instruct its staff in Morocco to urgently ascertain the facts and coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy," PM Sharif posted on X. Also read | India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort The PM also assured that strict action would be taken against those involved in the heinous act of human trafficking. "We will continue to crack down hard on human traffickers and agents in Pakistan who lure innocent citizens into this dangerous trap," he said. Similar incident happened in December, 2024 This incident comes a month after more than 80 Pakistanis drowned after boats carrying them capsized near Greece on the night between December 13 and 14, 2024. Although, as many as 36 Pakistani citizens were rescued, the rest remain missing which, as per a report from the Pakistani Embassy, should be presumed dead. The boats, which departed from Libya's Tobruk port also carried Bangladeshi, Egyptian and Sudanese nationals. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 40 Pakistanis die after boat en route to Spain capsizes near Morocco

US President Joe Biden has decided not to enforce the looming ban on popular video app TikTok, suggest reports citing an unidentified US official.&nbsp;
The ban on TikTok, a popular Chinese-owned social media app, was set to take effect just one day before Biden leaves office, but will now be left for the incoming Trump administration to handle, the Associated Press reported.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-ceo-shou-zi-chew-plans-to-attend-donald-trumps-inauguration-amid-potential-ban-in-us-8628066">TikTok CEO plans to attend Trump's inauguration amid potential ban in US</a>
The controversial law, passed by both chambers of the US Congress and signed by Biden last year, requires ByteDance, TikTok&rsquo;s Chinese parent company, to sell to a non-Chinese owner by January 19 or face a full ban in the US.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump inherits TikTok ban conundrum</h2>
TikTok, which boasts a user base of over 170 million Americans, as per reports, has started working to halt operations on Sunday (Jan 20). Despite the app's popularity, concerns over data security and its ties to China have made it a focal point of national security debates leading to the looming ban. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-key-events-performers-and-security-details-all-you-need-to-know-about-donald-trump-swearing-in-8626719">Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know</a>
President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office the day after the Jan 19 deadline as per reports, will now inherit the issue.
Although Trump had previously called for a ban on TikTok, recently his stance has shifted. Reports suggest that the Republican is now exploring options to delay the enforcement of the law for up to 90 days, potentially giving TikTok's parent company ByteDance more time to comply.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-reportedly-weighing-possibilities-to-preserve-tiktok-8626449">Donald Trump reportedly weighing possibilities to &lsquo;preserve&rsquo; TikTok</a>
<h2>Donald Trump's changing TikTok stance</h2>
Trump had previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds during his first term. At the time, he cited fears of data misuse and propaganda from the Chinese government. These concerns, echoed by Democrats, led his successor, Joe Biden, to sign a law banning the app.
However, Trump recently shifted his perspective and has since softened his stance.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-ban-in-america-us-federal-court-rejects-relief-request-783857" aria-label="TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban">TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban</a>
In December, he even expressed newfound support for the app and said: "Now (that) I'm thinking about it. I'm for TikTok, because you need competition."
"If you don't have TikTok, you have Facebook and Instagram -- and that's, you know, that's Zuckerberg," he told Bloomberg.
(With inputs from agencies)

Word | Discover why President Biden has chosen not to enforce the TikTok ban, leaving the decision to President-elect Trump as the January deadline approaches.

US President Joe Biden has decided not to enforce the looming ban on popular video app TikTok, suggest reports citing an unidentified US official. The ban on TikTok, a popular Chinese-owned social media app, was set to take effect just one day before Biden leaves office, but will now be left for the incoming Trump administration to handle, the Associated Press reported. Also read | TikTok CEO plans to attend Trump's inauguration amid potential ban in US The controversial law, passed by both chambers of the US Congress and signed by Biden last year, requires ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to sell to a non-Chinese owner by January 19 or face a full ban in the US. Trump inherits TikTok ban conundrum TikTok, which boasts a user base of over 170 million Americans, as per reports, has started working to halt operations on Sunday (Jan 20). Despite the app's popularity, concerns over data security and its ties to China have made it a focal point of national security debates leading to the looming ban. Also read | Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office the day after the Jan 19 deadline as per reports, will now inherit the issue. Although Trump had previously called for a ban on TikTok, recently his stance has shifted. Reports suggest that the Republican is now exploring options to delay the enforcement of the law for up to 90 days, potentially giving TikTok's parent company ByteDance more time to comply. Also read | Donald Trump reportedly weighing possibilities to ‘preserve’ TikTok Donald Trump's changing TikTok stance Trump had previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds during his first term. At the time, he cited fears of data misuse and propaganda from the Chinese government. These concerns, echoed by Democrats, led his successor, Joe Biden, to sign a law banning the app. However, Trump recently shifted his perspective and has since softened his stance. Also read | TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban In December, he even expressed newfound support for the app and said: "Now (that) I'm thinking about it. I'm for TikTok, because you need competition." "If you don't have TikTok, you have Facebook and Instagram -- and that's, you know, that's Zuckerberg," he told Bloomberg. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline looms

China said Friday that President Xi Jinping would send Vice President Han Zheng to attend the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, vowing to "enhance dialogue" with the new administration.
Trump, who was elected for the second time in November, will be sworn into office in Washington on Monday.
Last month, his transition team confirmed that Trump had broken with precedent to invite Xi and other world leaders to the ceremony.
Beijing's foreign ministry said Friday that Han would attend as Xi's "special representative".
"China follows the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation in viewing and growing its relationship with the United States," a ministry spokesperson said in a statement.
"We stand ready to work&ensp;with the new US government to&ensp;enhance dialogue and communication (and) properly manage differences," the spokesperson said.
Beijing was keen to "jointly pursue a stable, healthy and sustainable China-US relationship and find the right way for the two countries to get along with each other".
Trump waged a bitter trade war with China during his first term, slapping onerous tariffs on imports from the world's second-largest economy.
He has threatened to impose more severe measures this time around, accusing Beijing of unfair trade practices and contributing to a devastating fentanyl crisis in the United States.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Understand the significance of Han Zheng's attendance as Xi's special representative, reflecting China's diplomatic stance and readiness for constructive communication.

China said Friday that President Xi Jinping would send Vice President Han Zheng to attend the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, vowing to "enhance dialogue" with the new administration. Trump, who was elected for the second time in November, will be sworn into office in Washington on Monday. Last month, his transition team confirmed that Trump had broken with precedent to invite Xi and other world leaders to the ceremony. Beijing's foreign ministry said Friday that Han would attend as Xi's "special representative". "China follows the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation in viewing and growing its relationship with the United States," a ministry spokesperson said in a statement. "We stand ready to work with the new US government to enhance dialogue and communication (and) properly manage differences," the spokesperson said. Beijing was keen to "jointly pursue a stable, healthy and sustainable China-US relationship and find the right way for the two countries to get along with each other". Trump waged a bitter trade war with China during his first term, slapping onerous tariffs on imports from the world's second-largest economy. He has threatened to impose more severe measures this time around, accusing Beijing of unfair trade practices and contributing to a devastating fentanyl crisis in the United States. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China's Vice President Han Zheng to represent Xi at Trump's inauguration

Human Rights Watch on Thursday blasted the "craven unwillingness" of governments to defend international norms and institutions last year, while warning that Donald Trump's return to power will compound pressure on the world's "fraying" rights system.
From Gaza to Sudan, Haiti and Ukraine -- 2024 saw rights violations "at the most extreme," HRW chief Tirana Hassan told AFP in an interview ahead of the Thursday release of the organization's annual report.
Worldwide elections and deadly conflicts over the past year challenged the "integrity of democratic institutions and the principles of human rights and humanitarian law" -- but many governments "have failed the test," the 500-page document said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-inauguration-melania-trump-white-house-transition-slams-obamas-of-withholding-information-8627989" rel="dofollow">Melania Trump opens up about 'challenging' White House transition; accuses Obamas of withholding information</a>
It noted mounting repression in Russia, India and Venezuela as well as continuing devastation from the wars in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine.
These conflicts and other humanitarian crises, marked by the "craven unwillingness of many governments to stand up to suffering and abuse," exposed the "fraying of international norms meant to protect civilians and the devastating human cost when they are flouted," according to the report.
It called out authoritarian governments -- including in Russia and Mali -- for violating democratic norms, while also slamming liberal democracies, saying they were "not always reliable champions of human rights at home or abroad."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-bold-promises-that-donald-trump-has-made-for-day-one-in-office-8627368" rel="dofollow">Five bold promises that Donald Trump has made for Day One in office</a>
Hassan pointed to US President Joe Biden continuing to provide Israel with weapons, despite mounting evidence they have "been used in the commission of war crimes and the killing of civilians" in Gaza.
She said 2024 showed "how inconsistent the commitment to human rights" has been.
"That is very dangerous, because it sends a message that certain rights apply to some people and they don't to others," the Singapore-born lawyer said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-key-events-performers-and-security-details-all-you-need-to-know-about-donald-trump-swearing-in-8626719" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know</a>
<h2>Trump 'vacuum'&nbsp;</h2>
With Trump's return to the US presidency, HRW expressed concern that his administration would "repeat and even magnify the serious rights violations of his first term."
Renewed attacks by Trump on minority rights, international law and multilateral institutions risk "emboldening illiberal leaders worldwide to follow suit," it warned.
Hassan said that a US retreat from multilateral systems under Trump's second term would create "a real vacuum, which is going to be filled by opportunistic actors like China" to advance their "anti-rights agenda."
"But it's not all doom and gloom," she said, pointing to some progress last year in international courts, such as South Africa's case against Israel over its war in Gaza.
Popular uprisings have also seen success in pushing back against authoritarian regimes, such as in Bangladesh, where longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina was ousted in August.
"These resistance movements highlight a crucial reality: the fight for rights is often driven by ordinary people, fed up with injustice and corruption, bringing together their collective power to compel governments to uphold basic rights and serve the people instead of their own interests," the HRW report said.
<h2>'Time to double down'&nbsp;</h2>
Hassan described the continued global fight for rights as "the challenge of our time."
While people can feel "overwhelmed by the horrors" occurring worldwide, "this isn't a time to look away, if anything, this is a time to double down."
"If there is one thing that 2024 taught us," Hassan said, it is that ignoring human rights violations is "not an academic exercise -- it is not simply a question of law.
"People's lives are impacted. People are dying, people are starving, people are being hurt."
HRW's report, which reviews the situation in about 100 countries, highlighted the "widespread atrocities" faced by civilians in Sudan, while Haiti has seen gang violence reach "catastrophic levels."
It also called out Israel for committing "crimes against humanity" and possibly "genocide" during the Gaza war.
At a ceremony to launch the report on Thursday, Hassan said "the heinous crimes" committed in the conflict "should not go unpunished."
"While yesterday Israeli officials and Hamas agreed to a multi-phase ceasefire, the heinous crimes committed on and since October 7, 2023, should not go unpunished," she said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: From Gaza to Sudan, Haiti and Ukraine -- 2024 saw rights violations "at the most extreme," HRW chief Tirana Hassan told AFP in an interview

Human Rights Watch on Thursday blasted the "craven unwillingness" of governments to defend international norms and institutions last year, while warning that Donald Trump's return to power will compound pressure on the world's "fraying" rights system. From Gaza to Sudan, Haiti and Ukraine -- 2024 saw rights violations "at the most extreme," HRW chief Tirana Hassan told AFP in an interview ahead of the Thursday release of the organization's annual report. Worldwide elections and deadly conflicts over the past year challenged the "integrity of democratic institutions and the principles of human rights and humanitarian law" -- but many governments "have failed the test," the 500-page document said. Also read: Melania Trump opens up about 'challenging' White House transition; accuses Obamas of withholding information It noted mounting repression in Russia, India and Venezuela as well as continuing devastation from the wars in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine. These conflicts and other humanitarian crises, marked by the "craven unwillingness of many governments to stand up to suffering and abuse," exposed the "fraying of international norms meant to protect civilians and the devastating human cost when they are flouted," according to the report. It called out authoritarian governments -- including in Russia and Mali -- for violating democratic norms, while also slamming liberal democracies, saying they were "not always reliable champions of human rights at home or abroad." Also read: Five bold promises that Donald Trump has made for Day One in office Hassan pointed to US President Joe Biden continuing to provide Israel with weapons, despite mounting evidence they have "been used in the commission of war crimes and the killing of civilians" in Gaza. She said 2024 showed "how inconsistent the commitment to human rights" has been. "That is very dangerous, because it sends a message that certain rights apply to some people and they don't to others," the Singapore-born lawyer said. Also read: Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, performers, and security details. All you need to know Trump 'vacuum' With Trump's return to the US presidency, HRW expressed concern that his administration would "repeat and even magnify the serious rights violations of his first term." Renewed attacks by Trump on minority rights, international law and multilateral institutions risk "emboldening illiberal leaders worldwide to follow suit," it warned. Hassan said that a US retreat from multilateral systems under Trump's second term would create "a real vacuum, which is going to be filled by opportunistic actors like China" to advance their "anti-rights agenda." "But it's not all doom and gloom," she said, pointing to some progress last year in international courts, such as South Africa's case against Israel over its war in Gaza. Popular uprisings have also seen success in pushing back against authoritarian regimes, such as in Bangladesh, where longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina was ousted in August. "These resistance movements highlight a crucial reality: the fight for rights is often driven by ordinary people, fed up with injustice and corruption, bringing together their collective power to compel governments to uphold basic rights and serve the people instead of their own interests," the HRW report said. 'Time to double down' Hassan described the continued global fight for rights as "the challenge of our time." While people can feel "overwhelmed by the horrors" occurring worldwide, "this isn't a time to look away, if anything, this is a time to double down." "If there is one thing that 2024 taught us," Hassan said, it is that ignoring human rights violations is "not an academic exercise -- it is not simply a question of law. "People's lives are impacted. People are dying, people are starving, people are being hurt." HRW's report, which reviews the situation in about 100 countries, highlighted the "widespread atrocities" faced by civilians in Sudan, while Haiti has seen gang violence reach "catastrophic levels." It also called out Israel for committing "crimes against humanity" and possibly "genocide" during the Gaza war. At a ceremony to launch the report on Thursday, Hassan said "the heinous crimes" committed in the conflict "should not go unpunished." "While yesterday Israeli officials and Hamas agreed to a multi-phase ceasefire, the heinous crimes committed on and since October 7, 2023, should not go unpunished," she said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Human Rights Watch chief warns Trump's return will threaten world's fraying rights system

Qatar's prime minister vowed Thursday to support the rehabilitation of Syria's infrastructure, devastated by nearly 14 years of civil war, during his first visit to Damascus since Islamist-led forces seized power last month.
"We will provide the necessary technical support to make the needed infrastructure operational again and provide support to the electricity sector," said PM Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani.
"The agreement includes supplying power with a capacity of 200 megawatts and gradually increasing production," he said at a joint press conference with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Last week, Syria's national electricity company said Qatar and Turkey would send power ships to increase supply after the United States eased some sanctions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-netanyahus-denies-reports-of-gaza-ceasefire-says-final-details-still-being-sorted-out-8625155" rel="dofollow">Qatar PM confirms Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas; phase one from Jan 19</a>
Qatar "extends its hand to our Syrian brothers for future partnerships," Sheikh Mohammed said, adding that essential needs include "continuing to provide public services to the Syrian people".
Unlike other Arab countries, Qatar never restored diplomatic ties with Syria under ousted president Bashar al-Assad and was one of the first to back the armed rebellion that erupted after his government crushed a peaceful uprising in 2011.
Last week, a diplomatic source said Qatar was weighing a plan to provide Syria with funds after Damascus decided to increase public sector salaries.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-warns-force-if-hezbollah-breaks-ceasefire-mossad-chief-to-visit-qatar-amid-decisive-hostage-talks-8593466" rel="dofollow">Israel warns of action if Hezbollah breaks ceasefire; Mossad chief to visit Qatar for 'decisive' hostage talks</a>
Sheikh Mohammed, whose country was a key mediator in clinching a truce and hostage-release deal between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, also demanded Israel "immediately withdraw" from its buffer zone with Syria.
"The Israeli occupation's seizure of the buffer zone is a reckless... act and it must immediately withdraw," he said.
The same day Assad was toppled, Israel announced its troops were crossing the armistice line and into a UN-patrolled buffer zone that has separated Israeli and Syrian forces on the strategic Golan Heights since 1974.
Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in a war in 1967, later annexing the territory in a move largely unrecognised by the international community.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-reopens-embassy-in-damascus-after-13-years-second-nation-to-reopen-embassy-since-assads-fall-785835" rel="dofollow">Qatar reopens embassy in Damascus after 13 years; second nation to reopen mission since Assad's fall</a>
Sharaa said his authorities were counting on the support of Qatar to help stop Israel from making any further advances into Syrian territory.
Israel's army should return to "where it was before," he said, adding Qatar "supports this view and will use all means available to exert pressure on Israel".
On Wednesday, an Israeli air strike hit a target belonging to Syria's new authorities for the first time, killing three people, a war monitor and a medical source said.
Earlier this month, ministers from Syria's transitional government, including top diplomat Asaad al-Shaibani, met with the Qatari prime minister in Doha.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Qatar "extends its hand to our Syrian brothers for future partnerships," Sheikh Mohammed said, adding that essential needs include continuing to provide public services to the Syrian people.

Qatar's prime minister vowed Thursday to support the rehabilitation of Syria's infrastructure, devastated by nearly 14 years of civil war, during his first visit to Damascus since Islamist-led forces seized power last month. "We will provide the necessary technical support to make the needed infrastructure operational again and provide support to the electricity sector," said PM Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani. "The agreement includes supplying power with a capacity of 200 megawatts and gradually increasing production," he said at a joint press conference with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. Last week, Syria's national electricity company said Qatar and Turkey would send power ships to increase supply after the United States eased some sanctions. Also read: Qatar PM confirms Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas; phase one from Jan 19 Qatar "extends its hand to our Syrian brothers for future partnerships," Sheikh Mohammed said, adding that essential needs include "continuing to provide public services to the Syrian people". Unlike other Arab countries, Qatar never restored diplomatic ties with Syria under ousted president Bashar al-Assad and was one of the first to back the armed rebellion that erupted after his government crushed a peaceful uprising in 2011. Last week, a diplomatic source said Qatar was weighing a plan to provide Syria with funds after Damascus decided to increase public sector salaries. Also read: Israel warns of action if Hezbollah breaks ceasefire; Mossad chief to visit Qatar for 'decisive' hostage talks Sheikh Mohammed, whose country was a key mediator in clinching a truce and hostage-release deal between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, also demanded Israel "immediately withdraw" from its buffer zone with Syria. "The Israeli occupation's seizure of the buffer zone is a reckless... act and it must immediately withdraw," he said. The same day Assad was toppled, Israel announced its troops were crossing the armistice line and into a UN-patrolled buffer zone that has separated Israeli and Syrian forces on the strategic Golan Heights since 1974. Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in a war in 1967, later annexing the territory in a move largely unrecognised by the international community. Also read: Qatar reopens embassy in Damascus after 13 years; second nation to reopen mission since Assad's fall Sharaa said his authorities were counting on the support of Qatar to help stop Israel from making any further advances into Syrian territory. Israel's army should return to "where it was before," he said, adding Qatar "supports this view and will use all means available to exert pressure on Israel". On Wednesday, an Israeli air strike hit a target belonging to Syria's new authorities for the first time, killing three people, a war monitor and a medical source said. Earlier this month, ministers from Syria's transitional government, including top diplomat Asaad al-Shaibani, met with the Qatari prime minister in Doha. 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.

Qatar PM vows to support rehabilitation of Syria's infrastructure

Brazil's top court on Thursday refused to return the passport of right-wing former president Jair Bolsonaro so that he could attend the inauguration of US president Donald Trump.
The court said Bolsonaro still posed a flight risk, almost a year since his passport was seized as part of an investigation into his alleged orchestration of a coup attempt to remain in power after losing the 2022 election.
"The scenario that justified the imposition of the ban on leaving the country, with the surrender of passports, continues to indicate the possibility of an attempted evasion by the accused," judge Alexandre de Moraes wrote.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-coming-out-sunita-williams-conducts-spacewalk-after-being-stuck-in-orbit-for-seven-months-8628341">'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months</a>
The authenticity of a simple email invitation to the inauguration -- sent to Bolsonaro's son Eduardo without details of the event -- was the subject of widespread media attention in Brazil this week.
Moraes had requested additional proof of the invitation, which was not provided.
Nevertheless, the court analysed and denied the request to return Bolsonaro's passport.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-12-naxals-killed-in-chhattisgarh-encounter-in-south-bastar-8628344">India: 12 Naxals killed in Chhattisgarh encounter in South Bastar</a>
In an interview with the New York Times, published shortly before the court's decision, Bolsonaro -- dubbed the "Trump of the Tropics" during his time in office -- was effervescent about the possibility of attending the inauguration.
"I'm feeling like a kid again with Trump's invite. I'm fired up. I'm not even taking Viagra anymore," Bolsonaro joked, calling Trump "the most important guy in the world."
But while his hero is returning to office, the 69-year-old former army captain is staring down multiple criminal charges from investigations launched after his razor-thin election loss to Lula.
Bolsonaro has denied all accusations and said he is being "persecuted".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-cabinet-set-to-approve-gaza-ceasefire-deal-with-hamas-on-friday-report-8628336">Israeli cabinet set to approve Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas on Friday: Report</a>
He has been barred from holding public office until 2030 for casting doubts on the electoral system during his failed reelection campaign.
Police have also recommended he be charged for falsifying his Covid-19 vaccination records and misappropriating jewels and other luxury items gifted by Saudi Arabia, valued at $1.2 million.
The most serious allegation is that he "planned, acted, and had direct and effective control" over the plot to block Lula from taking office.
Police further alleged that Bolsonaro was "fully aware" of a plot by elite soldiers to assassinate Lula, vice-president Geraldo Alckmin and the high-profile judge Moraes.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chaos-overshadows-blinkens-last-press-briefing-reporters-forcibly-removed-mid-session-8628321">Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken&rsquo;s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session</a>
Five people, including a former Bolsonaro aide, were arrested in November over the assassination plot. 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

World: The court said Bolsonaro still posed a flight risk, almost a year since his passport was seized as part of an investigation into his alleged orchestration of a coup attempt to remain in power after losing the 2022 election.

Brazil's top court on Thursday refused to return the passport of right-wing former president Jair Bolsonaro so that he could attend the inauguration of US president Donald Trump. The court said Bolsonaro still posed a flight risk, almost a year since his passport was seized as part of an investigation into his alleged orchestration of a coup attempt to remain in power after losing the 2022 election. "The scenario that justified the imposition of the ban on leaving the country, with the surrender of passports, continues to indicate the possibility of an attempted evasion by the accused," judge Alexandre de Moraes wrote. Also read: 'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months The authenticity of a simple email invitation to the inauguration -- sent to Bolsonaro's son Eduardo without details of the event -- was the subject of widespread media attention in Brazil this week. Moraes had requested additional proof of the invitation, which was not provided. Nevertheless, the court analysed and denied the request to return Bolsonaro's passport. Also read: India: 12 Naxals killed in Chhattisgarh encounter in South Bastar In an interview with the New York Times, published shortly before the court's decision, Bolsonaro -- dubbed the "Trump of the Tropics" during his time in office -- was effervescent about the possibility of attending the inauguration. "I'm feeling like a kid again with Trump's invite. I'm fired up. I'm not even taking Viagra anymore," Bolsonaro joked, calling Trump "the most important guy in the world." But while his hero is returning to office, the 69-year-old former army captain is staring down multiple criminal charges from investigations launched after his razor-thin election loss to Lula. Bolsonaro has denied all accusations and said he is being "persecuted". Also read: Israeli cabinet set to approve Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas on Friday: Report He has been barred from holding public office until 2030 for casting doubts on the electoral system during his failed reelection campaign. Police have also recommended he be charged for falsifying his Covid-19 vaccination records and misappropriating jewels and other luxury items gifted by Saudi Arabia, valued at $1.2 million. The most serious allegation is that he "planned, acted, and had direct and effective control" over the plot to block Lula from taking office. Police further alleged that Bolsonaro was "fully aware" of a plot by elite soldiers to assassinate Lula, vice-president Geraldo Alckmin and the high-profile judge Moraes. Also read: Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken’s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session Five people, including a former Bolsonaro aide, were arrested in November over the assassination plot. 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.

Ex-Brazil Prez Bolsonaro denied passport for Donald Trump's inauguration

NASA Astronaut <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunita-williams" rel="dofollow">Sunita 'Suni' Williams</a>, who has been stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) along with Butch Wilmore, stepped out for her first spacewalk after more than seven months in orbit.&nbsp;
While floating 260 miles above Earth, Williams radioed, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m coming out,&rdquo; capturing her breathtaking yet routine nature of life and work in space for those living aboard the station.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
LIVE: Two <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Astronauts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Astronauts</a>, Nick Hague and Suni Williams, step outside of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> to support station upgrades, including repairs to our NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer) X-ray telescope. <a href="https://t.co/0VP296OmRY">https://t.co/0VP296OmRY</a>
&mdash; NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1879853707845664954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Williams and Wilmore were due to return to Earth after a week-long mission in June 2024, however, the return has been delayed due to a technical issue.&nbsp;
The two veteran astronauts arrived at the ISS in June for an eight-day mission but have been stuck up there for over seven months due to technical difficulties. The astronauts will not return until late March or possibly April.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-upbeat-seven-months-into-eight-day-nasa-space-mission-says-dont-feel-like-a-cast-away-8603858" rel="dofollow"> Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission</a>
Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025.
"NASA&rsquo;s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," NASA said in a statement.&nbsp;
Williams teamed up with astronaut Nick Hague on Thursday (Jan 16) to perform maintenance on the craft. Their tasks include repairing equipment that governs station orientation, patching light filters on the NICER X-ray telescope, and replacing a reflector device on an international docking adapter.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-witnesses-16-new-year-sunrises-science-explains-how-8582786" rel="dofollow">Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how</a>
Further, Sunita Williams will conduct another spacewalk next week on January 23, with Wilmore.&nbsp;
NASA is providing live coverage of both spacewalks on its YouTube channel.&nbsp;
Nicole McElroy, a Flight Director at NASA, said in a press briefing before the spacewalk that "The road to our preparations for all of these EVAs (extra-vehicular activity) has been going well."
"The crew on board has been studying their procedures, getting familiar with all of the tasks, and are really excited and looking forward to going out the door."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/toxic-smell-raises-alarm-for-astronauts-aboard-sunita-williams-led-iss-779344" rel="dofollow"> Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded&nbsp;</a>
Despite the setbacks faced by the astronauts in space, they have continued their work aboard the ISS while awaiting a safe return to home.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Williams and Wilmore were due to return to Earth after a week-long mission in June 2024, however, the return has been delayed due to a technical issue. 

NASA Astronaut Sunita 'Suni' Williams, who has been stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) along with Butch Wilmore, stepped out for her first spacewalk after more than seven months in orbit. While floating 260 miles above Earth, Williams radioed, “I’m coming out,” capturing her breathtaking yet routine nature of life and work in space for those living aboard the station. LIVE: Two @NASA_Astronauts, Nick Hague and Suni Williams, step outside of the @Space_Station to support station upgrades, including repairs to our NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer) X-ray telescope. https://t.co/0VP296OmRY — NASA (@NASA) January 16, 2025 Williams and Wilmore were due to return to Earth after a week-long mission in June 2024, however, the return has been delayed due to a technical issue. The two veteran astronauts arrived at the ISS in June for an eight-day mission but have been stuck up there for over seven months due to technical difficulties. The astronauts will not return until late March or possibly April. Also read: Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," NASA said in a statement. Williams teamed up with astronaut Nick Hague on Thursday (Jan 16) to perform maintenance on the craft. Their tasks include repairing equipment that governs station orientation, patching light filters on the NICER X-ray telescope, and replacing a reflector device on an international docking adapter. Also read: Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how Further, Sunita Williams will conduct another spacewalk next week on January 23, with Wilmore. NASA is providing live coverage of both spacewalks on its YouTube channel. Nicole McElroy, a Flight Director at NASA, said in a press briefing before the spacewalk that "The road to our preparations for all of these EVAs (extra-vehicular activity) has been going well." "The crew on board has been studying their procedures, getting familiar with all of the tasks, and are really excited and looking forward to going out the door." Also read: Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded Despite the setbacks faced by the astronauts in space, they have continued their work aboard the ISS while awaiting a safe return to home. (With inputs from agencies)

'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months

The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday (Jan 17) to discuss and ratify the recently agreed ceasefire deal with Hamas, according to a report by ABC News citing a senior Israeli official.
Axios also reported, quoting an Israeli official, "The Israeli cabinet is expected to convene on Friday morning and approve the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal."
During a briefing on Thursday, outgoing US Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-farewell-speech-how-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-details-8624491">Antony Blinken</a> was asked about his confidence in the implementation of the ceasefire. &ldquo;On the ceasefire, I am confident,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I fully expect that implementation will begin &hellip; on Sunday,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chaos-overshadows-blinkens-last-press-briefing-reporters-forcibly-removed-mid-session-8628321">Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken&rsquo;s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session</a>
Blinken admitted that negotiations had been &ldquo;challenging&rdquo; and that there might be unresolved issues, saying, &ldquo;You may get a loose end. We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak.&rdquo;
"We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak. I&rsquo;ve been on the phone in one way or another all morning with [White House Middle East adviser'] Brett McGurk, with our Qatari friends, and I&rsquo;m very confident that we will [see this] moving forward, and that we&rsquo;ll see the start of the implementation of the agreement on Sunday," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-grooming-gangs-fresh-investigation-elon-musk-reacts-8628152">'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs</a>
Earlier on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&rsquo;s office said that the cabinet would not meet to approve the deal until Hamas withdrew demands for last-minute concessions. Reuters quoted Netanyahu&rsquo;s office saying, &ldquo;Hamas reneges on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel to extort last-minute concessions. The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-iraq-yemen-forces-to-halt-attacks-on-israel-8627557">&lsquo;If they return, we will return&rsquo;: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire</a>
Hamas, however, rejected these claims. A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that the group had not backed out of the ceasefire agreement mediated on Wednesday and remained committed to it.
This back-and-forth has caused confusion among families of hostages, who are awaiting the return of their loved ones.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East:  Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office said that the cabinet would not meet to approve the deal until Hamas withdrew demands for last-minute concessions.

The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet on Friday (Jan 17) to discuss and ratify the recently agreed ceasefire deal with Hamas, according to a report by ABC News citing a senior Israeli official. Axios also reported, quoting an Israeli official, "The Israeli cabinet is expected to convene on Friday morning and approve the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal." During a briefing on Thursday, outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked about his confidence in the implementation of the ceasefire. “On the ceasefire, I am confident,” he said. “I fully expect that implementation will begin … on Sunday,” he added. Also read: Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken’s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session Blinken admitted that negotiations had been “challenging” and that there might be unresolved issues, saying, “You may get a loose end. We’re tying up that loose end as we speak.” "We’re tying up that loose end as we speak. I’ve been on the phone in one way or another all morning with [White House Middle East adviser'] Brett McGurk, with our Qatari friends, and I’m very confident that we will [see this] moving forward, and that we’ll see the start of the implementation of the agreement on Sunday," he added. Also read: 'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs Earlier on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said that the cabinet would not meet to approve the deal until Hamas withdrew demands for last-minute concessions. Reuters quoted Netanyahu’s office saying, “Hamas reneges on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel to extort last-minute concessions. The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement.” Also read: ‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire Hamas, however, rejected these claims. A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that the group had not backed out of the ceasefire agreement mediated on Wednesday and remained committed to it. This back-and-forth has caused confusion among families of hostages, who are awaiting the return of their loved ones. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli cabinet set to approve Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas on Friday: Report

As outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held his final press conference Thursday (Jan 16), there was chaos as the State Department employees removed a reporter after he accused the top diplomat of allowing &ldquo;genocide&rdquo; in Gaza.
Max Blumenthal, a journalist with Grayzone News, reportedly abandoned the press conference upon being asked to do so by state department aides. Meanwhile, officials dragged independent journalist Sam Husseini out amid ruckus. Both journalists had blasted Blinken for not reaching the Gaza ceasefire deal sooner.
"Why did you keep the bombs flowing when we had a deal in May?,&rdquo; Blumenthal asked, as quoted by New York Post. &ldquo;Why did you allow my friends homes in Gaza to be destroyed?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5zmx7ln-m9ajhgyk-4aipmh53">
Sam Husseini forcibly removed from the briefing room after interrupting Blinken&rsquo;s final press conference. <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNationalNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheNationalNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/xw5ulrYhPA">pic.twitter.com/xw5ulrYhPA</a>
&mdash; Willy Lowry (@willy_lowry) <a href="https://twitter.com/willy_lowry/status/1879930156644811084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
On the other hand, Husseini yelled, &ldquo;You pontificate about a free press!&rdquo; &ldquo;I am asking questions after being told by [spokesman] Matt Miller that he will not answer my questions,&rdquo; the journalist yelled as state department aides carried him out of the session as Blinken was still speaking.
&ldquo;Criminal! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague! Why aren&rsquo;t you in the Hague!&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-biden-and-trump-two-presidents-one-truce-who-gets-the-credit-8625582">Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit?</a>
The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected. He added that he was in touch with US negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials on Thursday morning to resolve the issue.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-israel-hamas-reach-gaza-ceasefire-deal-hostages-to-be-released-soon-8625065">Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire deal; Trump says 'hostages to be&nbsp;released&nbsp;soon'</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re tying up that loose end as we speak.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected amid hiccups. 

As outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held his final press conference Thursday (Jan 16), there was chaos as the State Department employees removed a reporter after he accused the top diplomat of allowing “genocide” in Gaza. Max Blumenthal, a journalist with Grayzone News, reportedly abandoned the press conference upon being asked to do so by state department aides. Meanwhile, officials dragged independent journalist Sam Husseini out amid ruckus. Both journalists had blasted Blinken for not reaching the Gaza ceasefire deal sooner. "Why did you keep the bombs flowing when we had a deal in May?,” Blumenthal asked, as quoted by New York Post. “Why did you allow my friends homes in Gaza to be destroyed?” Sam Husseini forcibly removed from the briefing room after interrupting Blinken’s final press conference. @TheNationalNews pic.twitter.com/xw5ulrYhPA — Willy Lowry (@willy_lowry) January 16, 2025 On the other hand, Husseini yelled, “You pontificate about a free press!” “I am asking questions after being told by [spokesman] Matt Miller that he will not answer my questions,” the journalist yelled as state department aides carried him out of the session as Blinken was still speaking. “Criminal! Why aren’t you in the Hague! Why aren’t you in the Hague! Why aren’t you in the Hague!” Also read: Gaza ceasefire: Biden and Trump - two presidents, one truce, who gets the credit? The outgoing US diplomat said he was confident that the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas will begin on Sunday as expected. He added that he was in touch with US negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials on Thursday morning to resolve the issue. Also read: Israel, Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire deal; Trump says 'hostages to be released soon' “It’s not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end,” he said. “We’re tying up that loose end as we speak.” (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Chaos overshadows Blinken’s last press briefing, reporters forcibly removed mid-session

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman on Thursday expressed concern after police confirmed they were investigating claims that a drink was spiked in one of the UK parliament's bars.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elianne-andams-murder-teenager-found-guilty-of-killing-15-year-old-girl-in-london-8628288" aria-label="Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London">Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London</a>
London's Metropolitan Police force said it was probing reports that a female parliamentary researcher had her drink tampered with inside parliament on January 7, the day after MPs returned from their Christmas break.
"These are incredibly concerning reports," Starmer's official spokesman told reporters.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/meet-praise-uncle-who-earns-60-a-day-for-praising-people-on-streets-8628276" aria-label="Meet 'Praise Uncle' who earns $60 a day for praising people on streets">Meet 'Praise Uncle' who earns $60 a day for praising people on streets</a>
"Women have a right to feel safe everywhere. Everyone on the parliamentary estate should feel safe in their workplace," he added.
The case was first reported by the Politico website, which said the alleged incident took place in Strangers' Bar, one of several bars and restaurants at the Westminster site in central London.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-pm-francois-bayrou-survives-first-no-confidence-vote-8627432" aria-label="French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote">French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote</a>
The bar is used by MPs and their guests, parliamentary staff and political journalists.
A spokesperson for the Met said that an "investigation is ongoing and the victim is being supported by officers".
"There have been no arrests at this stage," the spokesperson added. The debate has long raged about excessive drinking in parliament, with MPs sometimes leaving the bar to vote in the chamber during late sittings.
In November, it was reported that a group of Labour MPs proposed recommendations to curb the sale of alcohol to make parliament a healthier workplace.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-grooming-gangs-fresh-investigation-elon-musk-reacts-8628152" aria-label="'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs">'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs</a>
The same month, Starmer announced that spiking would become a new standalone criminal offence in the UK.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | Keir Starmer's spokesperson expressed deep concern over recent reports, emphasising the gravity of the situation and urging for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman on Thursday expressed concern after police confirmed they were investigating claims that a drink was spiked in one of the UK parliament's bars. Also read | Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London London's Metropolitan Police force said it was probing reports that a female parliamentary researcher had her drink tampered with inside parliament on January 7, the day after MPs returned from their Christmas break. "These are incredibly concerning reports," Starmer's official spokesman told reporters. Also read | Meet 'Praise Uncle' who earns $60 a day for praising people on streets "Women have a right to feel safe everywhere. Everyone on the parliamentary estate should feel safe in their workplace," he added. The case was first reported by the Politico website, which said the alleged incident took place in Strangers' Bar, one of several bars and restaurants at the Westminster site in central London. Also read | French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote The bar is used by MPs and their guests, parliamentary staff and political journalists. A spokesperson for the Met said that an "investigation is ongoing and the victim is being supported by officers". "There have been no arrests at this stage," the spokesperson added. The debate has long raged about excessive drinking in parliament, with MPs sometimes leaving the bar to vote in the chamber during late sittings. In November, it was reported that a group of Labour MPs proposed recommendations to curb the sale of alcohol to make parliament a healthier workplace. Also read | 'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs The same month, Starmer announced that spiking would become a new standalone criminal offence in the UK. 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.

UK govt expresses concerns over drink-spiking in parliament

A teenager who stabbed 15-year-old Elianne Andam with a kitchen knife in "white-hot anger at having been disrespected", has been found guilty of murder on Thursday (Jan 16).&nbsp;
Hassan Sentamu, who was 17 at the time of the attack, which happened on September 27 last year, attacked Andam outside a shopping centre in Croydon, south London.&nbsp;
The jury at the Old Bailey reached a 10-2 majority verdict.
Sentamu had already admitted manslaughter and further claimed that he was not in control of his actions because of his autism, but the jury did not accept this defence.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/teenager-fatally-stabbed-on-a-bus-in-london-police-arrest-three-8624708" rel="dofollow">14-year-old fatally stabbed in London bus, police arrest three including two teens</a>
<h2>What was the case?&nbsp;</h2>
Elianne was stabbed during a meeting at the Whitgift Centre to exchange belongings with Sentamu's ex-girlfriend, who was her friend.&nbsp;
The teenager was carrying a knife as he was feeling "disrespected" by the group of girls the day before, who threw water at him because they did not like the way he had treated their friend, his ex-girlfriend.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/womans-body-discovered-in-car-boot-in-east-london-probe-launched-reports-776789" rel="dofollow">Woman's body discovered in car boot in east London, probe launched: Reports</a>
The jury heard that Sentamu was seeking revenge, and when Elianne snatched a bag with his belongings in, he chased her down and stabbed her multiple times.
Elianne suffered a fatal 12-cm-deep stab to the neck. A passing bus driver held her hand and stayed with her as she lay dying in the street.&nbsp;
Prosecutor Alex Chalk KC said, "He was angry on 27 September, having brooded on the insult and he took the knife to the scene to reassert dominance."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-stabbing-girl-11-woman-stabbed-at-londons-leicester-square-suspect-arrested-749545" rel="dofollow">London stabbing: Girl, 11, woman stabbed at Leicester Square; suspect arrested</a>
"He exacted vengeance on a young girl clearly running away from him and posing no threat."
Notably, Sentamu was diagnosed with autism disorder at the age of 14. Following this, he spent some of his teenage years in foster care.&nbsp;
The court said that he had a troubled and disruptive childhood, with reports of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and violent behaviour with knives.
Earlier also, Sentamu was warned for taking a knife to school. Moreover, while awaiting trial for Elianne's murder, he threatened to "do it again", the court heard.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Sentamu had already admitted manslaughter, further claiming that he was not in control of his actions because of his autism, but the jury did not accept this defence. 

A teenager who stabbed 15-year-old Elianne Andam with a kitchen knife in "white-hot anger at having been disrespected", has been found guilty of murder on Thursday (Jan 16). Hassan Sentamu, who was 17 at the time of the attack, which happened on September 27 last year, attacked Andam outside a shopping centre in Croydon, south London. The jury at the Old Bailey reached a 10-2 majority verdict. Sentamu had already admitted manslaughter and further claimed that he was not in control of his actions because of his autism, but the jury did not accept this defence. Also read: 14-year-old fatally stabbed in London bus, police arrest three including two teens What was the case? Elianne was stabbed during a meeting at the Whitgift Centre to exchange belongings with Sentamu's ex-girlfriend, who was her friend. The teenager was carrying a knife as he was feeling "disrespected" by the group of girls the day before, who threw water at him because they did not like the way he had treated their friend, his ex-girlfriend. Also read: Woman's body discovered in car boot in east London, probe launched: Reports The jury heard that Sentamu was seeking revenge, and when Elianne snatched a bag with his belongings in, he chased her down and stabbed her multiple times. Elianne suffered a fatal 12-cm-deep stab to the neck. A passing bus driver held her hand and stayed with her as she lay dying in the street. Prosecutor Alex Chalk KC said, "He was angry on 27 September, having brooded on the insult and he took the knife to the scene to reassert dominance." Also read: London stabbing: Girl, 11, woman stabbed at Leicester Square; suspect arrested "He exacted vengeance on a young girl clearly running away from him and posing no threat." Notably, Sentamu was diagnosed with autism disorder at the age of 14. Following this, he spent some of his teenage years in foster care. The court said that he had a troubled and disruptive childhood, with reports of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and violent behaviour with knives. Earlier also, Sentamu was warned for taking a knife to school. Moreover, while awaiting trial for Elianne's murder, he threatened to "do it again", the court heard. (With inputs from agencies)

Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London

French Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-new-pm-faces-criticism-for-chairing-town-hall-meeting-amid-mayotte-cyclone-tragedy-784800">Francois Bayrou</a> survived his first no-confidence votein France&rsquo;s highly divided parliament on Thursday (January 16) after the far-right and Socialists abstained in the vote.&nbsp;
In a National Assembly with 577 lawmakers, just 131 supported the far-left&rsquo;s proposal to oust the new premier.
The vote followed a controversial statement earlier this week in which Bayrou outlined his government&rsquo;s policy plans. He proposed reopening discussions on 2023 pension reforms, describing the approach as &ldquo;without taboo,&rdquo; while also addressing the need to tackle France&rsquo;s &ldquo;excessive&rdquo; deficits in the current year&rsquo;s budget.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-calls-for-european-commission-to-take-tough-stance-against-elon-musks-interfernece-8601900">France urges European Commission to take tough stance against Elon Musk&rsquo;s interference, Spanish PM says Musk 'stirs up hatred'</a>
The statement provoked strong criticism from much of the opposition, leaving his coalition government at risk of a no-confidence motion.
Bayrou is the sixth prime minister to serve under President Emmanuel Macron. He was appointed last month after the resignation of Michel Barnier, who served just three months in office, making him the shortest-serving prime minister in French history.
President Macron appointed Bayrou to restore stability following Barnier&rsquo;s brief tenure. However, the fFrenchpolitical landscape remains disturbed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trumps-inauguration-portrait-is-recreated-version-of-his-2023-mugshot-internet-says-so-8627393">Trump's inauguration portrait is recreated version of his 2023 mugshot? Internet says so</a>
In June last year, Macron called early parliamentary elections to resolve political deadlock, but the move led to further instability, which the French President admitted.
&ldquo;Lucidity and humility force (me) to recognise that at this stage, this decision has produced more instability than peace, and I fully own up to that,&rdquo; Macron said during a televised address ahead of the New Year celebrations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e3-and-iran-hold-nuclear-talks-in-geneva-ahead-of-trumps-return-to-power-8619519">E3 and Iran hold nuclear talks in Geneva ahead of Trump's return to power</a>
He added, &ldquo;The dissolution caused more divisions in the Assembly than solutions for the French people.&rdquo;
Under constitutional rules, new parliamentary elections cannot be held until July.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Bayrou is the sixth prime minister to serve under President Emmanuel Macron. He was appointed last month after the resignation of Michel Barnier, who served just three months in office.

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou survived his first no-confidence votein France’s highly divided parliament on Thursday (January 16) after the far-right and Socialists abstained in the vote. In a National Assembly with 577 lawmakers, just 131 supported the far-left’s proposal to oust the new premier. The vote followed a controversial statement earlier this week in which Bayrou outlined his government’s policy plans. He proposed reopening discussions on 2023 pension reforms, describing the approach as “without taboo,” while also addressing the need to tackle France’s “excessive” deficits in the current year’s budget. Also read: France urges European Commission to take tough stance against Elon Musk’s interference, Spanish PM says Musk 'stirs up hatred' The statement provoked strong criticism from much of the opposition, leaving his coalition government at risk of a no-confidence motion. Bayrou is the sixth prime minister to serve under President Emmanuel Macron. He was appointed last month after the resignation of Michel Barnier, who served just three months in office, making him the shortest-serving prime minister in French history. President Macron appointed Bayrou to restore stability following Barnier’s brief tenure. However, the fFrenchpolitical landscape remains disturbed. Also read: Trump's inauguration portrait is recreated version of his 2023 mugshot? Internet says so In June last year, Macron called early parliamentary elections to resolve political deadlock, but the move led to further instability, which the French President admitted. “Lucidity and humility force (me) to recognise that at this stage, this decision has produced more instability than peace, and I fully own up to that,” Macron said during a televised address ahead of the New Year celebrations. Also read: E3 and Iran hold nuclear talks in Geneva ahead of Trump's return to power He added, “The dissolution caused more divisions in the Assembly than solutions for the French people.” Under constitutional rules, new parliamentary elections cannot be held until July. (With inputs from agencies)

French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote

The UK government announced a fresh investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, which recently led to a public spat between US tech billionaire Elon Musk and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Reacting to the announcement, Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation."
The investigation will include local inquiries in Oldham and up to four other areas. Speaking in Parliament, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said, &ldquo;As we have seen, effective local inquiries can delve into far more local detail and deliver more locally relevant answers, and change, than a lengthy nationwide inquiry can provide.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5zkbnme-xouqs4mw-8b0uplte">
The full truth is horrific <a href="https://t.co/Gsw0DYUG54">https://t.co/Gsw0DYUG54</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1879931240201252875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-every-violent-or-sexual-offence-in-england-wales-went-unsolved-in-2024-report-8618637">Amid spotlight on grooming gang menace in UK, report says most violent or sexual offences went unsolved in 2024</a>
The government&rsquo;s new plan will allow more victims to request case reviews, giving police forces a chance to pursue offenders and ensure justice for survivors. Cooper also announced a "rapid audit" to look at the "current scale and nature of gang-based exploitation across the country."
While announcing the investigation, Cooper criticised the lack of progress made in addressing the issue despite previous inquiries and reports. She said, "Far too little action has been taken, and shamefully little progress has been made. That has to change."
However, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed the government's plans as "totally inadequate."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistanis-4-times-more-likely-to-be-involved-in-grooming-offences-8608929">Pakistanis 4 times more likely to be involved in grooming offences in UK: Report</a>
The decision for local inquiries and a national audit comes after calls from the opposition for a new nationwide investigation. 
<h2>Musk vs Starmer on Grooming Gangs</h2>
Elon Musk has been outspoken about the need for a fresh investigation into grooming gangs in the UK. He has accused Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144">Keir Starmer</a> of mishandling the issue during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
In one of his posts, Musk wrote, "In the UK, serious crimes such&nbsp;as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service&rsquo;s approval for the police to charge suspects. Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013."
Musk also claimed that his British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, would have been at risk of "abduction in present-day Britain."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-fresh-jibe-to-starmer-elon-musk-says-his-british-grandmother-might-have-been-abducted-in-present-uk-government-8600084">In fresh jibe at Starmer, Musk says his British grandmother might have been abducted in present UK</a>
The grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: UK grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin. Elon Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation."

The UK government announced a fresh investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, which recently led to a public spat between US tech billionaire Elon Musk and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Reacting to the announcement, Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation." The investigation will include local inquiries in Oldham and up to four other areas. Speaking in Parliament, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said, “As we have seen, effective local inquiries can delve into far more local detail and deliver more locally relevant answers, and change, than a lengthy nationwide inquiry can provide.” The full truth is horrific https://t.co/Gsw0DYUG54 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 16, 2025 Also read: Amid spotlight on grooming gang menace in UK, report says most violent or sexual offences went unsolved in 2024 The government’s new plan will allow more victims to request case reviews, giving police forces a chance to pursue offenders and ensure justice for survivors. Cooper also announced a "rapid audit" to look at the "current scale and nature of gang-based exploitation across the country." While announcing the investigation, Cooper criticised the lack of progress made in addressing the issue despite previous inquiries and reports. She said, "Far too little action has been taken, and shamefully little progress has been made. That has to change." However, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed the government's plans as "totally inadequate." Also read: Pakistanis 4 times more likely to be involved in grooming offences in UK: Report The decision for local inquiries and a national audit comes after calls from the opposition for a new nationwide investigation. Musk vs Starmer on Grooming Gangs Elon Musk has been outspoken about the need for a fresh investigation into grooming gangs in the UK. He has accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of mishandling the issue during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). In one of his posts, Musk wrote, "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service’s approval for the police to charge suspects. Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013." Musk also claimed that his British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, would have been at risk of "abduction in present-day Britain." Also read: In fresh jibe at Starmer, Musk says his British grandmother might have been abducted in present UK The grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns. (With inputs from agencies)

'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs

Israeli health ministry issued new guidelines for hospitals that would receive the hostages released from Hamas' captivity on Thursday (Jan 16).&nbsp;
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement, pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, as per the latest reports in the West Asia crisis, Israel had destroyed a top-secret, active nuclear research facility of Iran in strikes launched last October.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-issues-guidelines-for-hospitals-that-will-receive-hostages-8627826">Gaza war: Israeli health ministry issues guidelines for hospitals that will receive hostages</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/MxFi0F3VnJIAg939m1gy.png" alt=" Hospitals in Israel gear up to receive hostages. This is a file photo of hostages being taken back home in November 2023. Photograph: (Reuters) ">With just three days left for the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas in the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli health ministry on Thursday (Jan 16) issued new guidelines for hospitals that would receive the hostages released from&nbsp;Hamas' &nbsp;captivity.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-play-leading-role-in-defending-ukraine-as-starmer-zelensky-ink-100-year-agreement-8627912">UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/V30MoTxGzS9roijpqtHz.png" alt=" UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky Photograph: (Reuters) ">UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement on Thursday (Jan 16), pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-destroyed-top-secret-iranian-nuclear-research-site-in-october-attacks-report-8628077">Israel destroyed top secret Iranian nuclear research site in October attacks: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/v6ybJg8ttBKq4Cpj1Khn.jpg" alt=" Representative image Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Israel had destroyed a top-secret, active nuclear research facility in Iran in the strikes launched last October, Axios reported, citing officials from the US and Israel. The site, identified as the Taleghan 2 facility in the Parchin military complex, was earlier believed to be inactive, but the attack nullified Iran&rsquo;s years-long effort to resume nuclear weapons research.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-iraq-yemen-forces-to-halt-attacks-on-israel-8627557">&lsquo;If they return, we will return&rsquo;: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/5Z6e3KACHW92iAdWJq74.png" alt=" Mohammed Abdul Salam, a spokesperson for Yemen&rsquo;s Houthi Movement announced the group&rsquo;s decision to end its operations against Israel. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gaza</a>&nbsp;starting on Sunday, forces in Iraq and Yemen have said that they will suspend their attacks on Israel.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-confirms-he-wont-run-for-upcoming-elections-no-time-to-think-about-life-after-politics-8627323">Canada's Trudeau confirms he won't run for upcoming elections</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/dQbvnZExCzrgkWdcUijI.png" alt=" Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
Canadian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Justin+Trudeau" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Justin Trudeau</a>&nbsp;has said that he will not be contesting the upcoming federal elections scheduled for October this year and also hinted at quitting politics.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-inauguration-melania-trump-white-house-transition-slams-obamas-of-withholding-information-8627989">Melania Trump opens up about 'challenging' White House transition; accuses Obamas of withholding information</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/YHsI7qv5sJdhYyYyv3Fc.png" alt=" File photo, President Donald Trump and former president Barack Obama stand on the steps of the US Capitol with First Lady Melania Trump and Michelle Obama, in Washington, D.C Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Melania Trump has claimed that when she and her husband first moved into the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trumps-inauguration-portrait-is-recreated-version-of-his-2023-mugshot-internet-says-so-8627393" target="_blank" rel="noopener">White House</a>, the Obamas withheld information, making the transition more difficult.
<div class="responsive-ad-css">
<div class="ads-div-style over-hidden article-mid-ads-style bottom-margin">
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-the-indian-man-on-fbis-top-10-most-wanted-list-with-reward-of-up-to-250000-8627522">Who is the Indian man on FBI's top 10 most wanted list with reward of up to $250,000?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/g2stpfGT08MbW0AJTaPw.png" alt=" Who is the Indian man on FBI's top 10 most wanted list with reward of up to $250,000? Photograph: (WION) " style="width: 1280px;">
An Indian man from Gujarat, Bhadreshkumar Chetanbhai Patel, who brutally murdered his wife in 2015, is now on the top 10 most wanted list of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-american-hostages-to-be-released-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-8627525">Who are the American hostages to be released in Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/14/bVzUxQPxxTjfO7bN9BST.jpg" alt=" Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in the first phase of an emerging truce deal with Israel: Report Photograph: (AFP) ">
As the announcement comes about the Israel-Hamas reaching a ceasefire deal, hostages and prisoners would be released by both parties as per the truce agreement.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kareena-kapoor-breaks-silence-on-saif-ali-khans-stabbing-it-has-been-an-incredibly-challenging-day-8628018">Kareena Kapoor breaks silence on Saif Ali Khan's stabbing: 'It has been an incredibly challenging day'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/LoBZMxn9tJwFDaMn8AYF.png" alt=" Kareena Kapoor on Saif Ali Khan's stabbing Photograph: (X) " style="width: 1280px;">Actor Kareena Kapoor Khan has finally broken her silence. After a challenging day, the actress has reacted to the shocking incident that took place at her Bandra home.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/karun-nair-vijay-hazare-trophy-stats-records-average-752-total-runs-752-five-hundreds-highest-163-8627794">'Manifested jokingly,' says Karun Nair on averaging 752 in Vijay Hazare Trophy</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/16/xTISkHy7cAqUvsqMaxgn.png" alt=" Karun Nair averaging 752 in ongoing VHT after eight matches. Photograph: (Maharaja T20) ">
India batter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karun-nair" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Karun Nair</a>&nbsp;is having a dream run in the ongoing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vijay-hazare-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vijay Hazare Trophy</a>&nbsp;(VHT) - domestic 50-over tournament - with an average of 752 after five hundreds and one fifty in eight matches for Vidarbha.
<h2 class="gh-post-page__excerpt"></h2>
</div>
</div>

Here are the top 10 world news of the day. 

Israeli health ministry issued new guidelines for hospitals that would receive the hostages released from Hamas' captivity on Thursday (Jan 16). UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement, pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations. Meanwhile, as per the latest reports in the West Asia crisis, Israel had destroyed a top-secret, active nuclear research facility of Iran in strikes launched last October. Gaza war: Israeli health ministry issues guidelines for hospitals that will receive hostages With just three days left for the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas in the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli health ministry on Thursday (Jan 16) issued new guidelines for hospitals that would receive the hostages released from Hamas' captivity. UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement on Thursday (Jan 16), pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations. Israel destroyed top secret Iranian nuclear research site in October attacks: Report Israel had destroyed a top-secret, active nuclear research facility in Iran in the strikes launched last October, Axios reported, citing officials from the US and Israel. The site, identified as the Taleghan 2 facility in the Parchin military complex, was earlier believed to be inactive, but the attack nullified Iran’s years-long effort to resume nuclear weapons research. ‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire Following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in Gaza starting on Sunday, forces in Iraq and Yemen have said that they will suspend their attacks on Israel. Canada's Trudeau confirms he won't run for upcoming elections Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that he will not be contesting the upcoming federal elections scheduled for October this year and also hinted at quitting politics. Melania Trump opens up about 'challenging' White House transition; accuses Obamas of withholding information Melania Trump has claimed that when she and her husband first moved into the White House, the Obamas withheld information, making the transition more difficult. Who is the Indian man on FBI's top 10 most wanted list with reward of up to $250,000? An Indian man from Gujarat, Bhadreshkumar Chetanbhai Patel, who brutally murdered his wife in 2015, is now on the top 10 most wanted list of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Who are the American hostages to be released in Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal? As the announcement comes about the Israel-Hamas reaching a ceasefire deal, hostages and prisoners would be released by both parties as per the truce agreement. Kareena Kapoor breaks silence on Saif Ali Khan's stabbing: 'It has been an incredibly challenging day' Actor Kareena Kapoor Khan has finally broken her silence. After a challenging day, the actress has reacted to the shocking incident that took place at her Bandra home. 'Manifested jokingly,' says Karun Nair on averaging 752 in Vijay Hazare Trophy India batter Karun Nair is having a dream run in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) - domestic 50-over tournament - with an average of 752 after five hundreds and one fifty in eight matches for Vidarbha.

Top 10 world news: UK, Ukraine ink 100-year agreement; Gaza ceasefire updates, and more

Amid the potential TikTok ban in America, the social media platform Chief of Executive Shou Zi Chew is planning to attend US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration scheduled for next week.&nbsp;
The TikTok CEO is expected to sit on the dais alongside other key guests, a Trump transition source confirmed to Axios on Thursday.
This comes as the fate of TikTok hangs by a thread, with the potential ban in the US set to take effect on Saturday.&nbsp;
Reportedly, the Trump Vance Inaugural Committee extended the invitation to Chew, Trump's transition source said.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-reportedly-weighing-possibilities-to-preserve-tiktok-8626449" rel="dofollow"> Donald Trump reportedly weighing possibilities to &lsquo;preserve&rsquo; TikTok</a>
<h2>Trump reportedly trying to preserve TikTok</h2>
Donald Trump's pick for national security adviser, Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, said on Wednesday in an interview that the US President-elect was reviewing prospects to &ldquo;preserve&rdquo; TikTok.
Waltz's comment came in response to a Fox News anchor's question about a Washington Post report, which claimed that Trump was mulling an executive order to suspend the enforcement of a federal law that could potentially lead to a nationwide ban on TikTok by Sunday (Jan 19), affecting around 170 million users in America.
Earlier in December, Trump held a meeting with Chew, and ahead of his meeting, he said that he had a "warm spot in my heart for TikTok."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-rednote-chinese-social-media-app-where-us-tiktokers-are-migrating-to-ahead-of-ban-8621640" rel="dofollow">What is RedNote? Chinese social media app to which US TikTokers are migrating ahead of ban</a>
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden, in his farewell address on Wednesday night, warned about the incoming "tech industrial complex," which he said gives him "great concern."&nbsp;
"Americans are being buried under an avalanche of misinformation and disinformation enabling the abuse of power," Mr. Biden said. "The free press is crumbling. Errors are disappearing. Social media is giving up on fact-checking. The truth is smothered by lies told for power and for profit."
He added, "Artificial intelligence is the most consequential technology of our time, perhaps of all time."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-officials-considering-selling-tiktok-us-to-elon-musk-to-avoid-potential-ban-report-8620575" rel="dofollow">China considers selling TikTok US to Elon Musk amid ban threat: Report</a>
Last week, the Supreme Court gave a January 19 deadline to ByteDance that the company should either sell TikTok or face a ban in the country on the grounds of national security.
Trump had earlier urged the Supreme Court to delay its decision around the short video platform. In a legal brief, Trump's team argued for "more breathing space".
The Americans are now migrating to an alternative Chinese social media app, RedNote, which has now become the most downloaded app on Apple's US App Store.&nbsp;
The app, which means "Little Red Book", came to the top position on Apple's US App Store on Tuesday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-likely-to-uphold-tiktok-ban-amid-security-concerns-8612365" rel="dofollow">US Supreme Court likely to uphold TikTok ban amid security concerns</a>
TikTok has been repeatedly saying that it will not sell its US business. Its lawyers warned that a ban will violate free speech protections for the platform's 170 million users in the US.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to sit on the dais alongside other key guests, a Trump transition source confirmed to Axios on Thursday.

Amid the potential TikTok ban in America, the social media platform Chief of Executive Shou Zi Chew is planning to attend US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration scheduled for next week. The TikTok CEO is expected to sit on the dais alongside other key guests, a Trump transition source confirmed to Axios on Thursday. This comes as the fate of TikTok hangs by a thread, with the potential ban in the US set to take effect on Saturday. Reportedly, the Trump Vance Inaugural Committee extended the invitation to Chew, Trump's transition source said. Also read: Donald Trump reportedly weighing possibilities to ‘preserve’ TikTok Trump reportedly trying to preserve TikTok Donald Trump's pick for national security adviser, Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, said on Wednesday in an interview that the US President-elect was reviewing prospects to “preserve” TikTok. Waltz's comment came in response to a Fox News anchor's question about a Washington Post report, which claimed that Trump was mulling an executive order to suspend the enforcement of a federal law that could potentially lead to a nationwide ban on TikTok by Sunday (Jan 19), affecting around 170 million users in America. Earlier in December, Trump held a meeting with Chew, and ahead of his meeting, he said that he had a "warm spot in my heart for TikTok." Also read: What is RedNote? Chinese social media app to which US TikTokers are migrating ahead of ban Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden, in his farewell address on Wednesday night, warned about the incoming "tech industrial complex," which he said gives him "great concern." "Americans are being buried under an avalanche of misinformation and disinformation enabling the abuse of power," Mr. Biden said. "The free press is crumbling. Errors are disappearing. Social media is giving up on fact-checking. The truth is smothered by lies told for power and for profit." He added, "Artificial intelligence is the most consequential technology of our time, perhaps of all time." Also read: China considers selling TikTok US to Elon Musk amid ban threat: Report Last week, the Supreme Court gave a January 19 deadline to ByteDance that the company should either sell TikTok or face a ban in the country on the grounds of national security. Trump had earlier urged the Supreme Court to delay its decision around the short video platform. In a legal brief, Trump's team argued for "more breathing space". The Americans are now migrating to an alternative Chinese social media app, RedNote, which has now become the most downloaded app on Apple's US App Store. The app, which means "Little Red Book", came to the top position on Apple's US App Store on Tuesday. Also read: US Supreme Court likely to uphold TikTok ban amid security concerns TikTok has been repeatedly saying that it will not sell its US business. Its lawyers warned that a ban will violate free speech protections for the platform's 170 million users in the US. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok CEO plans to attend Trump's inauguration amid potential ban in US

Israel had destroyed a top-secret, active nuclear research facility of Iran in strikes launched last October, reported Axios, citing officials from the US and Israel.
The site, identified as the Taleghan 2 facility in the Parchin military complex, was earlier believed to be inactive, but the attack nullified Iran&rsquo;s years-long effort to resume nuclear weapons research, the report said, citing three US officials, one current and one former Israeli official.
<h2>Taleghan 2 facility</h2>
The site is located 20 miles southeast of the capital, Tehran. It was part of Iran&rsquo;s Amad nuclear weapons programme until it was discontinued in 2003. The site was reportedly used by Iran to test explosives required in developing a nuclear bomb.
The US and Israeli officials claimed that the site was still being used by Iran to conduct nuclear research. "They conducted scientific activity that could lay the ground for the production of a nuclear weapon. It was a top secret thing. A small part of the Iranian government knew about this, but most of the Iranian government didn't,&rdquo; the report quoted a US official as saying.
Israeli and US officials detected activity at the site earlier this year, as per the report.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-octobers-strikes-reduced-irans-ability-to-produce-ballistic-missiles-report-784220">Israel&rsquo;s October strikes reduced Iran&rsquo;s ability to produce ballistic missiles: Report</a>
Satellite imagery later showed the facility was completely destroyed in Israeli attacks.
<h2>Reaction from Iran</h2>
Iran officially denies it is pursuing a nuclear bomb.
"Iran is not after nuclear weapons, period," declared Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi last week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-president-pezeshkian-urges-trump-to-pursue-peace-not-bloodshed-says-we-do-not-fear-war-8623349">Iran's President Pezeshkian urges Trump to pursue peace, not 'bloodshed,' says 'we do not fear war'</a>
Israel targeted this site because it was not part of Iran's declared nuclear programme. Israel was under pressure from US President Joe Biden to not attack any nuclear facility to avoid further escalation. However, the attack on Taleghan 2 facility put Iran in a precarious position, as acknowledgement of an active nuclear facility would have meant that the Shi&rsquo;ite nation was in violation of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The site, identified as Taleghan 2 facility, was earlier believed to be inactive but the attack nullified Iran’s years-long effort to resume nuclear weapons research.

Israel had destroyed a top-secret, active nuclear research facility of Iran in strikes launched last October, reported Axios, citing officials from the US and Israel. The site, identified as the Taleghan 2 facility in the Parchin military complex, was earlier believed to be inactive, but the attack nullified Iran’s years-long effort to resume nuclear weapons research, the report said, citing three US officials, one current and one former Israeli official. Taleghan 2 facility The site is located 20 miles southeast of the capital, Tehran. It was part of Iran’s Amad nuclear weapons programme until it was discontinued in 2003. The site was reportedly used by Iran to test explosives required in developing a nuclear bomb. The US and Israeli officials claimed that the site was still being used by Iran to conduct nuclear research. "They conducted scientific activity that could lay the ground for the production of a nuclear weapon. It was a top secret thing. A small part of the Iranian government knew about this, but most of the Iranian government didn't,” the report quoted a US official as saying. Israeli and US officials detected activity at the site earlier this year, as per the report. Also read: Israel’s October strikes reduced Iran’s ability to produce ballistic missiles: Report Satellite imagery later showed the facility was completely destroyed in Israeli attacks. Reaction from Iran Iran officially denies it is pursuing a nuclear bomb. "Iran is not after nuclear weapons, period," declared Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi last week. Also read: Iran's President Pezeshkian urges Trump to pursue peace, not 'bloodshed,' says 'we do not fear war' Israel targeted this site because it was not part of Iran's declared nuclear programme. Israel was under pressure from US President Joe Biden to not attack any nuclear facility to avoid further escalation. However, the attack on Taleghan 2 facility put Iran in a precarious position, as acknowledgement of an active nuclear facility would have meant that the Shi’ite nation was in violation of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel destroyed top secret Iranian nuclear research site in October attacks: Report

world

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