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South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) arrested suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after storming his residence. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound’s walls after being blocked at the entrance. In a statement, the impeached President said Wednesday that he had decided to submit to questioning over his failed martial law bid to avert "bloodshed" even though he believed the probe was illegal. Watch in for more details!

South Korea's suspended President Yoon arrested, says complying to avoid 'bloodshed'

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<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">New Delhi: Moscow has called for adding India to the Quad grouping on Afghanistan that currently has China, Pakistan, Iran and Russia.&nbsp;Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday (Jan 14) at a briefing: "It is more important to strengthen trust within the SCO [Shanghai Cooperation Organisation], within the format that is currently working on Afghanistan (Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran). We are confident that the inclusion of India would be the right step."&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">The "Afghanistan Quad" last met at the foreign ministers' level in November of 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Defence Minister Muhammad Asif were present at the meeting.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"> Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trying-to-convert-quad-into-military-bloc-india-fully-aware-russias-lavrov-8621142">US trying to convert QUAD into military bloc, India 'fully aware': Russia's Lavrov</a></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"> A joint statement after the meeting called for support for Afghanistan's "national sovereignty, political independence, unity, and territorial integrity."</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Afghan Quad on terrorism</h2>
Terrorism was a key issue that was discussed, with the joint statement expressing concerns over the "security situation related to terrorism in Afghanistan".
<div class="x_elementToProof">Significantly during the presser, Lavrov termed Pakistan a "victim of terrorism" and said for Islamabad to "fight against terrorism requires joining efforts with your Afghan neighbours, with India, with all SCO members, because Central Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan are used by "bad people" to plan and implement their criminal plans.</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">SCO had an Afghanistan Contact Group which had all members including India, but the group has become defunct since Taliban took power in in 2021.</div>
<h2 class="x_elementToProof">India's engagement with new Afghan regime</h2>
The Russian minister's comments are significant at a time when New Delhi has increased its engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul.&nbsp;
<div class="x_elementToProof">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-in-farewell-foreign-policy-speech-slams-president-elect-donald-trump-claims-america-stronger-on-world-stage-8619679">Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal</a></div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">In early January, Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi met in Dubai and discussed Chabahar port and Indian humanitarian assistance among other issues.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">India had opened a "technical office" in Kabul in 2022 and since has had engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul, despite not recognising it.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">India had first "shared the table" with Taliban under the Moscow Format on Afghanistan in 2018, which was represented at "non-official level" by two former Indian diplomats: Amar Sinha, who was India's ambassador to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan, who was India's High Commissioner to Pakistan.</div>
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India news, World, South Asia: The "Afghanistan Quad" last met at the foreign ministers' level in November of 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. 

New Delhi: Moscow has called for adding India to the Quad grouping on Afghanistan that currently has China, Pakistan, Iran and Russia. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday (Jan 14) at a briefing: "It is more important to strengthen trust within the SCO [Shanghai Cooperation Organisation], within the format that is currently working on Afghanistan (Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran). We are confident that the inclusion of India would be the right step." The "Afghanistan Quad" last met at the foreign ministers' level in November of 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Defence Minister Muhammad Asif were present at the meeting. Also read: US trying to convert QUAD into military bloc, India 'fully aware': Russia's Lavrov A joint statement after the meeting called for support for Afghanistan's "national sovereignty, political independence, unity, and territorial integrity." Afghan Quad on terrorism Terrorism was a key issue that was discussed, with the joint statement expressing concerns over the "security situation related to terrorism in Afghanistan". Significantly during the presser, Lavrov termed Pakistan a "victim of terrorism" and said for Islamabad to "fight against terrorism requires joining efforts with your Afghan neighbours, with India, with all SCO members, because Central Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan are used by "bad people" to plan and implement their criminal plans. SCO had an Afghanistan Contact Group which had all members including India, but the group has become defunct since Taliban took power in in 2021. India's engagement with new Afghan regime The Russian minister's comments are significant at a time when New Delhi has increased its engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul. Also read: Joe Biden in farewell foreign policy speech slams Trump, defends Afghanistan withdrawal In early January, Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri and Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi met in Dubai and discussed Chabahar port and Indian humanitarian assistance among other issues. India had opened a "technical office" in Kabul in 2022 and since has had engagement with the Taliban government in Kabul, despite not recognising it. India had first "shared the table" with Taliban under the Moscow Format on Afghanistan in 2018, which was represented at "non-official level" by two former Indian diplomats: Amar Sinha, who was India's ambassador to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan, who was India's High Commissioner to Pakistan.

Lavrov calls for adding India to 'Afghan Quad' that currently has Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran

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South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested by police on Wednesday (Jan 15) after they stormed his residence. Police had to use ladders to enter the compound after being blocked at the gates. Yoon agreed to be questioned about his failed attempt to declare martial law, though he believes the investigation is illegal.
The Indian Union Home Ministry has permitted the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to charge former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), according to reports.&nbsp; Elon Musk is being sued by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC has accused Musk of violating federal laws during his purchase of Twitter shares in 2022.
Over 400 schools in the Indian national capital, New Delhi, received bomb threats in 2024, triggering a political controversy ahead of elections. The BJP has accused the AAP of having links to NGOs that oppose the execution of Afzal Guru, a convict in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack.
Click on the headlines to read more
<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" rel="dofollow">South Korea suspended President Yoon arrested, says surrendered to avoid 'bloodshed'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/9SQOWjt2WM1sDPmdzvVy.png" alt=" A motorcade believed to be carrying South Korean impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol leaves his residence in Seoul on January 15, 2025. After authorities entered his residence to arrest him, South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed on January 15 to appear at the office of investigators probing him over insurrection, his lawyer said. Photograph: (Combination created using images from AFP) ">
South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) arrested suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after storming his residence. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound&rsquo;s walls after being blocked at the entrance. In a statement, the impeached president said Wednesday that he had decided to submit to questioning over his failed martial law bid to avert "bloodshed," even though he believed the probe was illegal.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-ministry-okays-ed-to-prosecute-aap-chief-arvind-kejriwal-in-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-8622508" rel="dofollow">India: Home Ministry okays ED to prosecute AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi liquor policy scam</a>
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The Union Home Ministry has authorized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to prosecute former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for his alleged involvement in money laundering related to the liquor scam case: Sources
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-sued-by-us-regulator-sec-over-2022-twitter-share-purchase-violations-8622387" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk hit with SEC lawsuit for delayed Twitter stock disclosure in 2022</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/ngzCgvmkHMU6Nq85YAfy.png" alt=" FIle Photo: This illustration photo taken May 13, 2022, displays Elon Musk&rsquo;s Twitter account with a Twitter logo in the background. Photograph: (AFP) ">
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-aap-slams-bjp-for-politicising-delhi-school-bomb-threats-8622497" rel="dofollow">India: AAP slams BJP for 'politicising' Delhi school bomb threats</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/15/Ax2oJCI5GVgVQSI9Us9Y.jpg" alt=" AAP&rsquo;s Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh Photograph: (ANI) ">
Over 400 schools in India's Delhi received bomb threats in 2024. Now the probe into the event has triggered a political row in the poll-bound national capital. BJP slammed AAP over having &ldquo;deep bonds&rdquo; with the NGOs that have opposed hanging Afzal Guru, a convict of the 2001 Indian Parliament attack.
Watch | California braces for return of dangerous windsAt least 24 killed in blaze, more than 90,000 still displaced
<blockquote>
California braces for return of dangerous winds At least 24 killed in blaze, more than 90,000 still displaced<a href="https://twitter.com/JyotsnaKumar13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JyotsnaKumar13</a> brings you this report Watch more: <a href="https://t.co/dm7SyC01cG">https://t.co/dm7SyC01cG</a> <a href="https://t.co/1WaIw1y5br">pic.twitter.com/1WaIw1y5br</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1879381746619183243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief. 

South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested by police on Wednesday (Jan 15) after they stormed his residence. Police had to use ladders to enter the compound after being blocked at the gates. Yoon agreed to be questioned about his failed attempt to declare martial law, though he believes the investigation is illegal. The Indian Union Home Ministry has permitted the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to charge former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), according to reports. Elon Musk is being sued by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC has accused Musk of violating federal laws during his purchase of Twitter shares in 2022. Over 400 schools in the Indian national capital, New Delhi, received bomb threats in 2024, triggering a political controversy ahead of elections. The BJP has accused the AAP of having links to NGOs that oppose the execution of Afzal Guru, a convict in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. Click on the headlines to read more South Korea suspended President Yoon arrested, says surrendered to avoid 'bloodshed' South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) arrested suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after storming his residence. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound’s walls after being blocked at the entrance. In a statement, the impeached president said Wednesday that he had decided to submit to questioning over his failed martial law bid to avert "bloodshed," even though he believed the probe was illegal. India: Home Ministry okays ED to prosecute AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi liquor policy scam The Union Home Ministry has authorized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to prosecute former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for his alleged involvement in money laundering related to the liquor scam case: Sources Elon Musk hit with SEC lawsuit for delayed Twitter stock disclosure in 2022 Elon Musk has been sued by US regulator SEC (the United States Securities and Exchange Commission). In a filing published on Tuesday (Jan 14), the SEC accused him of violating federal securities laws during his 2022 purchase of Twitter shares. India: AAP slams BJP for 'politicising' Delhi school bomb threats Over 400 schools in India's Delhi received bomb threats in 2024. Now the probe into the event has triggered a political row in the poll-bound national capital. BJP slammed AAP over having “deep bonds” with the NGOs that have opposed hanging Afzal Guru, a convict of the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. Watch | California braces for return of dangerous windsAt least 24 killed in blaze, more than 90,000 still displaced California braces for return of dangerous winds At least 24 killed in blaze, more than 90,000 still displaced@JyotsnaKumar13 brings you this report Watch more: https://t.co/dm7SyC01cG pic.twitter.com/1WaIw1y5br — WION (@WIONews) January 15, 2025

Morning news brief: South Korea's Yoon arrested; India's home ministry okays ED to prosecute Kejriwal, and more

President-elect Donald Trump's pick for defense secretary is facing Senators for his confirmation hearing, being grilled over allegations of misconduct. Let's listen in

US: Trump's Pentagon Pick Pete Hegseth Grilled By Senators As Cabinet Hearings Begin | World | WION

Cuba said Tuesday it would release 553 prisoners in response to Washington removing the communist country from its list of terror sponsors in a deal hailed by relatives of jailed protesters.
The White House said President Joe Biden was removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism in one of his last official acts before Donald Trump is sworn in next Monday.
The move will likely be overturned by Trump, who reinstated Cuba's terror designation in the final days of his first term of office in 2021.
"An assessment has been completed, and we do not have information that supports Cuba's designation as being a state sponsor of terrorism," a senior Biden administration official told reporters.
The deal was negotiated with the help of the Catholic Church for the release of "political prisoners in Cuba and those who have been detained unjustly," the official added.
Family members of jailed protesters hailed the announcement, including Liset Fonseca, mother of 41-year-old Roberto Perez, sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment.&nbsp;
He had taken part in anti-government protests with thousands of other Cubans in July 2021, fueled by power blackouts and soaring food prices.
"All the mothers of prisoners want our children to be free and out of that suffering, out of that hell that is the prisons in Cuba. They should never have been in prison," Fonseca told AFP.
One person was killed and dozens injured in the protests, which Havana accused Washington of orchestrating.
According to official Cuban figures, some 500 people were given sentences of up to 25 years in prison for participating, but rights groups and the US embassy say the figure is closer to 1,000.
Some have already been freed after serving their sentences.
<h2>'Diverse crimes' </h2>
Cuba welcomed Washington's announcement Tuesday as a step in the "right direction," but lamented it was still under US sanctions in place since 1962.
The foreign ministry later announced that 553 people imprisoned for "diverse crimes" will be released.
Cuba blames the US blockade for its worst economic crisis in decades, marked by shortages of fuel, food, medicines and electricity.
Trump's first presidential term from 2017 to 2021 saw a tightening of sanctions against Cuba that had been loosened during a period of detente under his predecessor Barack Obama.
Before assuming office, Biden had promised changes in US policy towards the island, but postponed these after Havana's crackdown on the 2021 protests.
Analysts say the Covid-19 pandemic, which tanked tourism, and economic mismanagement by the government have contributed greatly to the poor state of the economy.
But Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel has described US sanctions as "genocidal" and said his country was prepared for "more difficult circumstances" after Trump's election.
The incoming president's allies immediately criticized Biden over Tuesday's announcement, with Ted Cruz -- a Cuban-American member of the US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee -- calling it a "rank appeasement of the Cuban regime."
Trump has nominated Senator Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American highly critical of communism and the left at large, to serve as his secretary of state.
A White House statement said Biden would also waive part of the so-called Libertad Act underpinning the US embargo of Cuba.
Biden would also rescind a Trump-era policy called "National Security Presidential Memorandum 5," ending restrictions on financial transactions with certain Cuban entities.&nbsp;
Colombia's leftist President Gustavo Petro and a political party made up of the country's disarmed ex-FARC guerrilla group, welcomed the White House announcement.
Cuba had hosted the talks from 2012 to 2016 that saw the FARC agree to lay down arms.
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.

Cuba welcomed Washington's announcement Tuesday as a step in the "right direction," but lamented it was still under US sanctions in place since 1962.

Cuba said Tuesday it would release 553 prisoners in response to Washington removing the communist country from its list of terror sponsors in a deal hailed by relatives of jailed protesters. The White House said President Joe Biden was removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism in one of his last official acts before Donald Trump is sworn in next Monday. The move will likely be overturned by Trump, who reinstated Cuba's terror designation in the final days of his first term of office in 2021. "An assessment has been completed, and we do not have information that supports Cuba's designation as being a state sponsor of terrorism," a senior Biden administration official told reporters. The deal was negotiated with the help of the Catholic Church for the release of "political prisoners in Cuba and those who have been detained unjustly," the official added. Family members of jailed protesters hailed the announcement, including Liset Fonseca, mother of 41-year-old Roberto Perez, sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment. He had taken part in anti-government protests with thousands of other Cubans in July 2021, fueled by power blackouts and soaring food prices. "All the mothers of prisoners want our children to be free and out of that suffering, out of that hell that is the prisons in Cuba. They should never have been in prison," Fonseca told AFP. One person was killed and dozens injured in the protests, which Havana accused Washington of orchestrating. According to official Cuban figures, some 500 people were given sentences of up to 25 years in prison for participating, but rights groups and the US embassy say the figure is closer to 1,000. Some have already been freed after serving their sentences. 'Diverse crimes' Cuba welcomed Washington's announcement Tuesday as a step in the "right direction," but lamented it was still under US sanctions in place since 1962. The foreign ministry later announced that 553 people imprisoned for "diverse crimes" will be released. Cuba blames the US blockade for its worst economic crisis in decades, marked by shortages of fuel, food, medicines and electricity. Trump's first presidential term from 2017 to 2021 saw a tightening of sanctions against Cuba that had been loosened during a period of detente under his predecessor Barack Obama. Before assuming office, Biden had promised changes in US policy towards the island, but postponed these after Havana's crackdown on the 2021 protests. Analysts say the Covid-19 pandemic, which tanked tourism, and economic mismanagement by the government have contributed greatly to the poor state of the economy. But Cuba's President Miguel Diaz-Canel has described US sanctions as "genocidal" and said his country was prepared for "more difficult circumstances" after Trump's election. The incoming president's allies immediately criticized Biden over Tuesday's announcement, with Ted Cruz -- a Cuban-American member of the US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee -- calling it a "rank appeasement of the Cuban regime." Trump has nominated Senator Marco Rubio, a Cuban-American highly critical of communism and the left at large, to serve as his secretary of state. A White House statement said Biden would also waive part of the so-called Libertad Act underpinning the US embargo of Cuba. Biden would also rescind a Trump-era policy called "National Security Presidential Memorandum 5," ending restrictions on financial transactions with certain Cuban entities. Colombia's leftist President Gustavo Petro and a political party made up of the country's disarmed ex-FARC guerrilla group, welcomed the White House announcement. Cuba had hosted the talks from 2012 to 2016 that saw the FARC agree to lay down arms. 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.

Biden removes Cuba from list of state sponsors of terrorism in one of his last moves in office

After dominating 2023 and 2024 with her Eras tour, Taylor Swift is already in talks to return again with another concert tour. Shanghai authorities have held preliminary talks with pop superstar Taylor Swift's team over the possibility of her performing in the Chinese financial hub. Watch in for more details!

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Hundreds of people marched in Jerusalem against an unexpected agreement between Israel and Hamas for a Gaza ceasefire and the release of hostages.

Israel-Hamas war: Hundreds in Jerusalem protest against expected ceasefire deal

South Korea's impeached president, agreed to appear before investigators after hundreds of law enforcement officials entered the presidential compound. This marks the second attempt to detain him over the imposition of martial law last month. It followed a long standoff at the compound's gate as an unarmed team of investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) and police officers were blocked by unidentified personnel. Watch in for more details!

South Korean investigators enter residence to attempt to arrest President Yoon

South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) arrested suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after storming his residence. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound&rsquo;s walls after being blocked at the entrance.
In a statement, the impeached president said he had decided to submit to questioning over his failed martial law bid "to avert unfortunate bloodshed" even though he believed the probe was illegal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-south-korean-investigators-enter-yoon-suk-yeols-residence-to-enforce-arrest-warrant-8622385">South Korean investigators storm Yoon Suk Yeol&rsquo;s residence to enforce arrest warrant</a>
"I decided to respond to the Corruption Investigation Office," he said in a pre-recorded video message. However, the embattled leader insisted that he did not accept the legality of the investigation and was only complying "to prevent any unfortunate bloodshed."
<h2>A historic arrest</h2>
This is a historic moment, as Yoon has now become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested.
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Yoon, already suspended from office by lawmakers, is accused of ordering soldiers to storm parliament on December 3 in an effort to halt proceedings aimed at overturning his controversial power grab.&nbsp;
Hailing the historic arrest,&nbsp;South Korea's opposition Democratic Party in a statement said that it was the beginning of restoring order to the country after weeks of political turmoil.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-day-of-yoon-suk-yeols-impeachment-trial-ends-in-minutes-as-suspended-south-korea-president-skips-hearing-8620538">First day of Yoon impeachment trial ends in minutes as suspended South Korea president skips hearing</a>
"The arrest of Yoon Suk Yeol is the first step toward restoring constitutional order, democracy and the rule of law. Although overdue, it is truly fortunate to confirm that public authority and justice in South Korea are still alive," floor leader Park Chan-dae told the party in a meeting, as reported by AFP.
<h2>How it happened</h2>
As per an AFP report citing its journalists present on the scene, early on Wednesday, a team of around 100 unarmed investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) along with police officers tried to enter Yoon's residential compound. However, they were blocked by unidentified personnel at the entrance gate.
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Footage from the scene showed officers marked with "Police" and "CIO" on their uniforms entering the hillside residence using ladders to bypass barricades. Some officers also approached the compound via a nearby mountain trail, said the CIO.
The police have also arrested Kim Seong-hun, the acting head of the presidential guard, reported Yonhap news agency.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | South Korean anti-corruption officials arrest President Yoon Suk Yeol, marking a historic event as he becomes the first sitting president to be arrested.

South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) arrested suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after storming his residence. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound’s walls after being blocked at the entrance. In a statement, the impeached president said he had decided to submit to questioning over his failed martial law bid "to avert unfortunate bloodshed" even though he believed the probe was illegal. Also read | South Korean investigators storm Yoon Suk Yeol’s residence to enforce arrest warrant "I decided to respond to the Corruption Investigation Office," he said in a pre-recorded video message. However, the embattled leader insisted that he did not accept the legality of the investigation and was only complying "to prevent any unfortunate bloodshed." A historic arrest This is a historic moment, as Yoon has now become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested. Also read | 'Benevolent' Italian court spares man who murdered wife and daughter citing 'understandably human motives' Yoon, already suspended from office by lawmakers, is accused of ordering soldiers to storm parliament on December 3 in an effort to halt proceedings aimed at overturning his controversial power grab. Hailing the historic arrest, South Korea's opposition Democratic Party in a statement said that it was the beginning of restoring order to the country after weeks of political turmoil. Also read | First day of Yoon impeachment trial ends in minutes as suspended South Korea president skips hearing "The arrest of Yoon Suk Yeol is the first step toward restoring constitutional order, democracy and the rule of law. Although overdue, it is truly fortunate to confirm that public authority and justice in South Korea are still alive," floor leader Park Chan-dae told the party in a meeting, as reported by AFP. How it happened As per an AFP report citing its journalists present on the scene, early on Wednesday, a team of around 100 unarmed investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) along with police officers tried to enter Yoon's residential compound. However, they were blocked by unidentified personnel at the entrance gate. Also read | Elon Musk hit with SEC lawsuit for delayed Twitter stock disclosure in 2022 Footage from the scene showed officers marked with "Police" and "CIO" on their uniforms entering the hillside residence using ladders to bypass barricades. Some officers also approached the compound via a nearby mountain trail, said the CIO. The police have also arrested Kim Seong-hun, the acting head of the presidential guard, reported Yonhap news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's suspended president Yoon arrested, says surrendered to avoid 'bloodshed'

South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) stormed the residence of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol in a bid to arrest him over a failed martial law attempt. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound&rsquo;s walls after being blocked at the entrance.
Due to security concerns, authorities have opted not to carry firearms but donned bulletproof vests, given the possibility of an armed standoff with Yoon's guards, suggest local media reports.
Also read |&nbsp;<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" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">South Korea anti-corruption investigators arrest suspended President Yoon</a>
Yoon, already suspended from office by lawmakers who passed an impeachment motion against him, is accused of ordering soldiers to storm parliament on December 3 last year in an effort to halt proceedings aimed at overturning his controversial power grab.
If the warrant is carried out, he would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested.
<h2>'Execution of arrest warrant has begun'</h2>
"The execution of the presidential arrest warrant has begun," declared acting President Choi Sang-mok in a statement, adding, "This situation is a crucial moment for maintaining order and the rule of law in South Korea."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-day-of-yoon-suk-yeols-impeachment-trial-ends-in-minutes-as-suspended-south-korea-president-skips-hearing-8620538">First day of Yoon impeachment trial ends in minutes as suspended South Korea president skips hearing</a>
As per an AFP news agency report citing its journalists present on the scene, a team of around 100 unarmed investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) along with police officers tried to enter Yoon's residential compound early on Wednesday. However, they were blocked by unidentified personnel at the entrance gate.
Footage from the scene showed officers marked with "Police" and "CIO" on their uniforms entering the hillside residence using ladders to bypass barricades. Some officers also approached the compound via a nearby mountain trail, said the CIO.
The police have arrested Kim Seong-hun, the acting head of the presidential guard ahead of Yoon's arrest, reported Yonhap news agency.
Choi, the acting president standing in for Yoon till his fate is decided, said those responsible for "serious violations leading to unfortunate incidents" at the arrest site would be punished.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benevolent-italian-court-spares-man-who-murdered-wife-and-daughter-citing-understandably-human-motives-8619824">'Benevolent' Italian court spares man who murdered wife and daughter citing 'understandably human motives'</a>
This marks the second attempt to arrest Yoon after a failed effort on January 3, where his Presidential Security Service (PSS) refused entry to investigators during an hours-long standoff.
<h2>Security clampdown outside Yoon's residence</h2>
Thousands of Yoon's staunch supporters, waving South Korean and American flags, gathered near the residence, chanting "illegal warrant!" and blocking access. Police and CIO officers forcibly removed them, while some 30 lawmakers from Yoon's ruling People Power Party attempted to block investigators.
Yoon's security team has used barbed wire and barricades to transform the residence into what opposition leaders are calling a "fortress." &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-sued-by-us-regulator-sec-over-2022-twitter-share-purchase-violations-8622387">Elon Musk hit with SEC lawsuit for delayed Twitter stock disclosure in 2022</a>
If detained, Yoon could be held for up to 48 hours under the current warrant, with investigators expected to seek another arrest warrant to extend custody.&nbsp;
Parallel to the arrest efforts, Yoon's impeachment trial began on Tuesday. However, Yoon&rsquo;s absence&mdash;citing security concerns&mdash;led to an adjournment. The hearings are scheduled to continue on Thursday, with or without his participation.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | South Korean investigators stormed President Yoon Suk Yeol's residence to enforce an arrest warrant linked to a failed martial law attempt.

South Korean investigators and police on Wednesday (Jan 15) stormed the residence of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol in a bid to arrest him over a failed martial law attempt. Officers, as per reports, used ladders to scale the compound’s walls after being blocked at the entrance. Due to security concerns, authorities have opted not to carry firearms but donned bulletproof vests, given the possibility of an armed standoff with Yoon's guards, suggest local media reports. Also read | South Korea anti-corruption investigators arrest suspended President Yoon Yoon, already suspended from office by lawmakers who passed an impeachment motion against him, is accused of ordering soldiers to storm parliament on December 3 last year in an effort to halt proceedings aimed at overturning his controversial power grab. If the warrant is carried out, he would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested. 'Execution of arrest warrant has begun' "The execution of the presidential arrest warrant has begun," declared acting President Choi Sang-mok in a statement, adding, "This situation is a crucial moment for maintaining order and the rule of law in South Korea." Also read | First day of Yoon impeachment trial ends in minutes as suspended South Korea president skips hearing As per an AFP news agency report citing its journalists present on the scene, a team of around 100 unarmed investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) along with police officers tried to enter Yoon's residential compound early on Wednesday. However, they were blocked by unidentified personnel at the entrance gate. Footage from the scene showed officers marked with "Police" and "CIO" on their uniforms entering the hillside residence using ladders to bypass barricades. Some officers also approached the compound via a nearby mountain trail, said the CIO. The police have arrested Kim Seong-hun, the acting head of the presidential guard ahead of Yoon's arrest, reported Yonhap news agency. Choi, the acting president standing in for Yoon till his fate is decided, said those responsible for "serious violations leading to unfortunate incidents" at the arrest site would be punished. Also read | 'Benevolent' Italian court spares man who murdered wife and daughter citing 'understandably human motives' This marks the second attempt to arrest Yoon after a failed effort on January 3, where his Presidential Security Service (PSS) refused entry to investigators during an hours-long standoff. Security clampdown outside Yoon's residence Thousands of Yoon's staunch supporters, waving South Korean and American flags, gathered near the residence, chanting "illegal warrant!" and blocking access. Police and CIO officers forcibly removed them, while some 30 lawmakers from Yoon's ruling People Power Party attempted to block investigators. Yoon's security team has used barbed wire and barricades to transform the residence into what opposition leaders are calling a "fortress." Also read | Elon Musk hit with SEC lawsuit for delayed Twitter stock disclosure in 2022 If detained, Yoon could be held for up to 48 hours under the current warrant, with investigators expected to seek another arrest warrant to extend custody. Parallel to the arrest efforts, Yoon's impeachment trial began on Tuesday. However, Yoon’s absence—citing security concerns—led to an adjournment. The hearings are scheduled to continue on Thursday, with or without his participation. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean investigators storm suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol’s residence to arrest him

UK Minister Tulip Siddiq resigns Amid Bangaldesh Probe

A week after blazes erupted and spread uncontained, forecasters predicted "particularly dangerous" dry Santa Ana winds would spike the wildfire threat for already exhausted firefighters.
"Stay aware of your surroundings. Be ready to evacuate. Avoid anything that can spark a fire," the National Weather Service warned.
A large part of Southern California was under a Red Flag warning, indicating that intense dryness and furious winds would make conditions ripe for wildfire.
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Part of Los Angeles County and much of neighbouring Ventura County were in a "Particularly Dangerous Situation," according to the NWS, a designation that was also declared before last week's deadly blazes erupted.
Officials insisted they were poised, with Los Angeles city fire chief Kristin Crowley telling reporters a&nbsp;huge firefighting operation was well placed.
"I have strategically pre-positioned engine strike teams and task forces which are dedicated to rapid response for any new fire that breaks out," she said.
The renewed danger comes with 24,000 acres (9,700 hectares) of the upmarket Pacific Palisades in ruins and 14,000 acres of the city of Altadena badly charred.
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More than 90,000 evacuees are desperate to&nbsp;get back to their homes -- or even just to see if anything at all survived.
"My house is gone, I know that. I've seen pictures and all that's left is the chimney. But I need to see it by myself to believe it," Fred Busche told AFP.
Among the desperation, there were stories of fortitude.
Jeff Ridgway told how he had refused to abandon the apartment complex he manages, defending it against the fires by hauling buckets of water from the pool.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tulip-siddiq-uks-treasury-minister-resigns-over-alleged-bangladeshi-financial-links-8622112" aria-label="Tulip Siddiq, UK's Treasury minister, resigns over alleged Bangladesh financial links">Tulip Siddiq, UK's Treasury minister, resigns over alleged Bangladesh financial links</a>
"It was just a war," the 67-year-old told AFP, pointing to a eucalyptus tree he extinguished when it caught fire and threatened the building last week.
"But I was just stubborn. I was like: 'I'm not going to be defeated by you. I'm sorry, this is just not gonna happen.'"
<h2>A 'different experience'</h2>
Search teams using cadaver dogs have been scouring the rubble for days, with Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna saying he expected more victims would be unearthed.
"Every day we're doing this, we're running across the remains of individual community members," he said.
"I believe we'll continue to find remains."
With so many in dire straits, the city was clutching for any sliver of good news.
That was offered by the Los Angeles Rams, who beat the Minnesota Vikings in an NFL playoff game on Monday night to take them one step closer to the Super Bowl.
The game, which had been scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, was moved to Arizona to relieve pressure on stretched law enforcement.
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Basketball fans also had a welcomed diversion from the fires when the Lakers played the San Antonio Spurs at home, although they lost 102-126.
The Lakers were among a dozen city sports clubs&nbsp;-- also including the Dodgers baseball team -- that have pledged $8 million toward wildfire relief.
The mainstay entertainment industry was also stepping up, with major studios and streamers including Netflix, Disney, Amazon, Warner and Universal parent company Comcast having all announced eight-figure donations to the recovery effort.
But there were also many stories of individual generosity.
At a converted parking lot in Arcadia, 600 people showed up in a single day to distribute donated supplies to evacuees, organizers said.
Many had been redirected from other shelters that also could not accommodate the extra help.
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"It's a very different experience than any other volunteering&nbsp;that I typically do. Because there's no difference between the people that are helping and the people that are being helped," said 19-year-old student Gianna Karkafi.
"It's just, like, luck."
<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: A large part of Southern California was under a Red Flag warning, indicating that intense dryness and furious winds would make conditions ripe for wildfire.

A week after blazes erupted and spread uncontained, forecasters predicted "particularly dangerous" dry Santa Ana winds would spike the wildfire threat for already exhausted firefighters. "Stay aware of your surroundings. Be ready to evacuate. Avoid anything that can spark a fire," the National Weather Service warned. A large part of Southern California was under a Red Flag warning, indicating that intense dryness and furious winds would make conditions ripe for wildfire. Also read | Ukraine claims to carry out 'most massive strike' on Russia, Moscow vows retaliation Part of Los Angeles County and much of neighbouring Ventura County were in a "Particularly Dangerous Situation," according to the NWS, a designation that was also declared before last week's deadly blazes erupted. Officials insisted they were poised, with Los Angeles city fire chief Kristin Crowley telling reporters a huge firefighting operation was well placed. "I have strategically pre-positioned engine strike teams and task forces which are dedicated to rapid response for any new fire that breaks out," she said. The renewed danger comes with 24,000 acres (9,700 hectares) of the upmarket Pacific Palisades in ruins and 14,000 acres of the city of Altadena badly charred. Also read | Starbucks introduces new policy, to ask customers 'to buy something' or 'get out' More than 90,000 evacuees are desperate to get back to their homes -- or even just to see if anything at all survived. "My house is gone, I know that. I've seen pictures and all that's left is the chimney. But I need to see it by myself to believe it," Fred Busche told AFP. Among the desperation, there were stories of fortitude. Jeff Ridgway told how he had refused to abandon the apartment complex he manages, defending it against the fires by hauling buckets of water from the pool. Also read | Tulip Siddiq, UK's Treasury minister, resigns over alleged Bangladesh financial links "It was just a war," the 67-year-old told AFP, pointing to a eucalyptus tree he extinguished when it caught fire and threatened the building last week. "But I was just stubborn. I was like: 'I'm not going to be defeated by you. I'm sorry, this is just not gonna happen.'" A 'different experience' Search teams using cadaver dogs have been scouring the rubble for days, with Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna saying he expected more victims would be unearthed. "Every day we're doing this, we're running across the remains of individual community members," he said. "I believe we'll continue to find remains." With so many in dire straits, the city was clutching for any sliver of good news. That was offered by the Los Angeles Rams, who beat the Minnesota Vikings in an NFL playoff game on Monday night to take them one step closer to the Super Bowl. The game, which had been scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, was moved to Arizona to relieve pressure on stretched law enforcement. Also read | Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage Basketball fans also had a welcomed diversion from the fires when the Lakers played the San Antonio Spurs at home, although they lost 102-126. The Lakers were among a dozen city sports clubs -- also including the Dodgers baseball team -- that have pledged $8 million toward wildfire relief. The mainstay entertainment industry was also stepping up, with major studios and streamers including Netflix, Disney, Amazon, Warner and Universal parent company Comcast having all announced eight-figure donations to the recovery effort. But there were also many stories of individual generosity. At a converted parking lot in Arcadia, 600 people showed up in a single day to distribute donated supplies to evacuees, organizers said. Many had been redirected from other shelters that also could not accommodate the extra help. Also read | Pete Hegseth, Trump’s pick for def secy, called ‘incompetent’ during Senate hearing "It's a very different experience than any other volunteering that I typically do. Because there's no difference between the people that are helping and the people that are being helped," said 19-year-old student Gianna Karkafi. "It's just, like, luck." 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.

LA Wildfires: 'Particularly dangerous' winds to spike the fire

A group of US news organisations is taking ChapGPT&rsquo;s parent company OpenAI to federal court and the hearing on Tuesday (Jan 14) will determine the fate of the AI giant faced with a massive copyright infringement case.
The Times, The New York Daily News and the Center for Investigative Reporting are leading the legal campaign against OpenAI and its backer Microsoft. The cases against the two entities have now been merged into one.
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The hearing on Tuesday will decide whether OpenAI&rsquo;s plea to dismiss the trial will get approval or the news organisations will be allowed to pursue the case further.
<h2>Arguments of news publishers</h2>
The news organisations argue that ChatGPT was fed with millions of copyrighted works from their websites, including archives, for training purposes and it was done without consent or remuneration. According to the publishers, this data scraping amounts to copyright infringement on a massive scale.
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"[OpenAI's] unlawful use of The Times's work to create artificial intelligence products that compete with it threatens The Times's ability to provide that service," the newspaper's attorneys wrote in an amended complaint filed in August 2023.
"Using the valuable intellectual property of others in these ways without paying for it has been extremely lucrative for [OpenAI]."
<h2>Argument by OpenAI and Microsoft</h2>
On the contrary, attorneys for Microsoft argue that using journalistic text for training an AI model was not illegal.
"In this case, The New York Times uses its might and its megaphone to challenge the latest profound technological advance: the Large Language Model, or LLM," wrote the lawyers in their court filing.
Earlier, other news publishers, including the Associated Press, News Corp. and Vox Media, struck a deal with OpenAI over content-sharing. But the Times and company are going full offensive, who argue that ChatGPT's dataset must be deleted and billions should be paid in damages.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The Times, The New York Daily News and the Center for Investigative Reporting are leading the legal campaign against OpenAI and its backer Microsoft

A group of US news organisations is taking ChapGPT’s parent company OpenAI to federal court and the hearing on Tuesday (Jan 14) will determine the fate of the AI giant faced with a massive copyright infringement case. The Times, The New York Daily News and the Center for Investigative Reporting are leading the legal campaign against OpenAI and its backer Microsoft. The cases against the two entities have now been merged into one. Also read: US probing 2.6 million Tesla vehicles over remote driving feature The hearing on Tuesday will decide whether OpenAI’s plea to dismiss the trial will get approval or the news organisations will be allowed to pursue the case further. Arguments of news publishers The news organisations argue that ChatGPT was fed with millions of copyrighted works from their websites, including archives, for training purposes and it was done without consent or remuneration. According to the publishers, this data scraping amounts to copyright infringement on a massive scale. Also read: Big Tech bets big on Trump: Google donates $1mn to US President-elect’s inauguration fund "[OpenAI's] unlawful use of The Times's work to create artificial intelligence products that compete with it threatens The Times's ability to provide that service," the newspaper's attorneys wrote in an amended complaint filed in August 2023. "Using the valuable intellectual property of others in these ways without paying for it has been extremely lucrative for [OpenAI]." Argument by OpenAI and Microsoft On the contrary, attorneys for Microsoft argue that using journalistic text for training an AI model was not illegal. "In this case, The New York Times uses its might and its megaphone to challenge the latest profound technological advance: the Large Language Model, or LLM," wrote the lawyers in their court filing. Earlier, other news publishers, including the Associated Press, News Corp. and Vox Media, struck a deal with OpenAI over content-sharing. But the Times and company are going full offensive, who argue that ChatGPT's dataset must be deleted and billions should be paid in damages. (With inputs from agencies)

Court to decide ChapGPT’s fate in copyright infringement case brought by news publishers

The NATO military alliance said Tuesday it would launch a Baltic Sea monitoring mission following the suspected sabotage of undersea cables in recent months.
Several telecom and power cables have been severed with experts and politicians accusing Russia of orchestrating a hybrid war against the West as the two sides square off over Ukraine.&nbsp;
The "Baltic Sentry" mission would involve "frigates and maritime patrol aircraft" among other assets, NATO chief Mark Rutte said at a regional meeting in Finland's capital Helsinki on Tuesday.
But he declined to give details on the number of vessels "because that might differ from one week to another" and he did not want to make "the enemy any wiser than he or she is already".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-detains-russian-oil-tanker-linked-to-baltic-sea-cable-damage-nato-offers-support-8569619">Finland detains Russian oil tanker linked to Baltic sea cable damage; NATO offers 'support'</a>
NATO was also tight-lipped on the duration, saying in a statement the operation would continue "for an undisclosed amount of time".
The suspected sabotage has been blamed on a "shadow fleet" of vessels -- often ageing and operating under opaque ownership -- that carry Russian crude oil and petroleum products, embargoed since the invasion of Ukraine.
"Investigations of all of these cases are still ongoing, but there is reason for grave concern," Rutte said.
He said protecting undersea infrastructure was of "utmost importance" not only for energy supplies but also for internet traffic.&nbsp;
<h2>'Strategic signal'&nbsp;</h2>
Leaders of NATO's Baltic countries said in a statement after the Helsinki meeting that the shadow fleet "poses a particular threat to the maritime and environmental security in the Baltic Sea region and globally".
They said the fleet "significantly supports funding of Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-probes-russia-linked-tanker-over-sabotage-of-undersea-power-cable-8568797">Finland probes Russia-linked tanker over 'sabotage' of undersea cable</a>
Finland's President Alexander Stubb said foreign ministries from the Baltic Sea NATO states would set up a group of legal experts to assess what they could do without affecting freedom of navigation.
NATO said in late December it would increase its presence in the region but had not announced an operation.
Iro Sarkka, a researcher from the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, told AFP that NATO had been pushed into action by the Russian shadow fleet.
A comprehensive operation would serve as a "deterrent and a strategic signal" that NATO was prepared to act, according to Sarkka.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-accuses-china-of-blocking-probe-of-ship-linked-to-cut-baltic-sea-cables-786274">Sweden accuses China of blocking probe of ship linked to Baltic Sea cables damage</a>
<h2>Repeated incidents&nbsp;</h2>
Tensions have mounted around the Baltic Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
A series of underwater blasts ruptured the Nord Stream pipelines that carried Russian gas to Europe in September 2022, the cause of which has yet to be determined.
In October 2023, an undersea gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was shut down after it was damaged by the anchor of a Chinese cargo ship.
Two telecom cables in Swedish waters were severed on November 17-18 last year.
And weeks later, on December 25, the Estlink 2 electricity cable and four telecom cables linking Finland and Estonia were damaged.
Investigators suspect the cables were damaged by the anchor of the Eagle S, a Cook Island-flagged oil tanker believed to be part of the "shadow fleet".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-proposes-baltic-sea-policing-mission-after-cables-cut-779831">Poland proposes Baltic Sea policing mission after cables cut</a>
Finnish police seized the Eagle S on December 28 as part of a criminal investigation.
Finnish authorities last week deemed the ship unseaworthy, barred it from sailing and have banned eight crew members from leaving the country while police carry out a probe.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Several telecom and power cables have been severed with experts and politicians accusing Russia of orchestrating a hybrid war against the West. 

The NATO military alliance said Tuesday it would launch a Baltic Sea monitoring mission following the suspected sabotage of undersea cables in recent months. Several telecom and power cables have been severed with experts and politicians accusing Russia of orchestrating a hybrid war against the West as the two sides square off over Ukraine. The "Baltic Sentry" mission would involve "frigates and maritime patrol aircraft" among other assets, NATO chief Mark Rutte said at a regional meeting in Finland's capital Helsinki on Tuesday. But he declined to give details on the number of vessels "because that might differ from one week to another" and he did not want to make "the enemy any wiser than he or she is already". Also read: Finland detains Russian oil tanker linked to Baltic sea cable damage; NATO offers 'support' NATO was also tight-lipped on the duration, saying in a statement the operation would continue "for an undisclosed amount of time". The suspected sabotage has been blamed on a "shadow fleet" of vessels -- often ageing and operating under opaque ownership -- that carry Russian crude oil and petroleum products, embargoed since the invasion of Ukraine. "Investigations of all of these cases are still ongoing, but there is reason for grave concern," Rutte said. He said protecting undersea infrastructure was of "utmost importance" not only for energy supplies but also for internet traffic. 'Strategic signal' Leaders of NATO's Baltic countries said in a statement after the Helsinki meeting that the shadow fleet "poses a particular threat to the maritime and environmental security in the Baltic Sea region and globally". They said the fleet "significantly supports funding of Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine". Also read: Finland probes Russia-linked tanker over 'sabotage' of undersea cable Finland's President Alexander Stubb said foreign ministries from the Baltic Sea NATO states would set up a group of legal experts to assess what they could do without affecting freedom of navigation. NATO said in late December it would increase its presence in the region but had not announced an operation. Iro Sarkka, a researcher from the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, told AFP that NATO had been pushed into action by the Russian shadow fleet. A comprehensive operation would serve as a "deterrent and a strategic signal" that NATO was prepared to act, according to Sarkka. Also read: Sweden accuses China of blocking probe of ship linked to Baltic Sea cables damage Repeated incidents Tensions have mounted around the Baltic Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A series of underwater blasts ruptured the Nord Stream pipelines that carried Russian gas to Europe in September 2022, the cause of which has yet to be determined. In October 2023, an undersea gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was shut down after it was damaged by the anchor of a Chinese cargo ship. Two telecom cables in Swedish waters were severed on November 17-18 last year. And weeks later, on December 25, the Estlink 2 electricity cable and four telecom cables linking Finland and Estonia were damaged. Investigators suspect the cables were damaged by the anchor of the Eagle S, a Cook Island-flagged oil tanker believed to be part of the "shadow fleet". Also read: Poland proposes Baltic Sea policing mission after cables cut Finnish police seized the Eagle S on December 28 as part of a criminal investigation. Finnish authorities last week deemed the ship unseaworthy, barred it from sailing and have banned eight crew members from leaving the country while police carry out a probe. 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.

NATO launches new naval mission to protect undersea cables in Baltic Sea

Ukraine carried out its largest aerial attack on Russian territory of the nearly three-year war overnight, Kyiv said on Tuesday, hitting factories and energy hubs hundreds of miles from the frontline.
The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered".
The barrage forced schools in the southwestern Saratov region to close, while at least nine airports in central and western Russia temporarily halted traffic, according to Russian officials.
Moscow and Kyiv have increased strikes on each other ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration next week, as both sides seek to gain the upper hand in potential negotiations aimed at settling the nearly three-year war.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-man-fighting-for-russia-on-ukraine-frontlines-dies-after-desperate-pleas-to-return-back-home-8618801" rel="dofollow"> Indian man fighting for Russia on Ukraine frontlines dies after desperate pleas to return back home: Report</a>
"The Ukrainian Defence Forces carried out the most massive strike against the occupiers' military facilities, at a distance of 200 to 1,100 kilometres (125 to 700 miles) deep into the territory of the Russian Federation," Ukraine's General Staff said in a post on social media.
Facilities "in the Bryansk, Saratov, Tula regions and the Republic of Tatarstan were hit," it added.
Among the targets were a chemical factory that makes rocket fuel and ammunition for Russia's army, an oil depot near a Russian air base, and an oil refinery.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-soldiers-fighting-in-ukraine-told-to-kill-selves-before-capture-seoul-8613983" rel="dofollow">North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine were told to kill selves before capture: Seoul</a>
The governor of Russia's Saratov region, Roman Busargin, said the scale of the attack there was "massive".
Schools in the cities of Saratov and Engels were holding classes online on Tuesday because of the attacks, he added.
Firefighters had only the day before managed to put out a blaze at an oil depot in the city of Engels, which was hit by a Ukrainian drone strike on January 8.
Kyiv's army said it had hit the same site again.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-releases-first-testimony-captured-north-korean-soldiers-8611052" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Thought it was training, not combat': Ukraine releases first testimony of captured N Korean soldiers | Watch</a>
<h2>'Successful' strike&nbsp;</h2>
In the energy-rich region of Tatarstan, a Ukrainian drone struck a gas storage tank, sending flames and thick smoke billowing into the sky near the city of Kazan, according to the media and the regional government.
Tatar local media said a liquefied gas storage base was hit, and published images showing flames and black smoke.
Russia's defence ministry said it had shot down six US-supplied ATACMS missiles and six British Storm Shadow cruise missiles that Ukraine had fired in the attack on the Bryansk region.
Ukraine's army had earlier claimed it had hit a chemical plant near the town of Seltso, more than 100 kilometres from the border, that makes ammunition and explosives for Russia's army.
"Drones successfully distracted Russian air defences, paving the way for missiles that hit the main targets," the Ukrainian military's Unmanned Systems Forces said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-azov-brigade-seeks-english-speaking-recruits-amid-rising-pressures-8610346" rel="dofollow">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv is seeking English-speaking soldiers</a>
Ukraine regularly targets military and energy sites in Russia, part of what it calls "fair" retaliation for Russia's repeated barrages of its energy grid since Moscow invaded in February 2022.
The Ukrainian army vowed to pursue its "systematic" campaign against the Russian military-industrial complex until Russian "armed aggression against Ukraine is completely stopped".
The air force separately said that its air defence systems had downed 58 Iranian-designed drones launched by Russia, while another 21 either were destroyed with electronic interference systems or crashed.
<h2>Russian advances&nbsp;</h2>
The overnight Ukrainian attacks came at a difficult moment for Kyiv's forces along the front line, particularly in the eastern Donetsk region.
City authorities in Pokrovsk, Russia's main target in the region, repeated a call on Tuesday for remaining residents to flee. Around 60,000 people lived in the city before Russia invaded in February 2022.
Russian advances have also forced the closure and evacuation of staff from a major coal mine around Pokrovsk, its operator said on Tuesday, another signal of the dangerous proximity of Russian forces to the city.
Moscow announced on Tuesday that it had re-captured two Ukrainian villages in the eastern Donetsk region -- Neskuchne and Terny -- that Kyiv had wrested back from Russian control earlier in the conflict: symbolic blows for Kyiv's struggling army.
The Russian defence ministry said the area around Neskuchne was a strategically important logistics hub for Ukraine, and published footage showing air strikes against the shells of charred concrete buildings, already completely destroyed by previous attacks.
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 Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered".

Ukraine carried out its largest aerial attack on Russian territory of the nearly three-year war overnight, Kyiv said on Tuesday, hitting factories and energy hubs hundreds of miles from the frontline. The Russian military accused Kyiv of using US- and British-supplied missiles for one of the strikes and promised it would "not go unanswered". The barrage forced schools in the southwestern Saratov region to close, while at least nine airports in central and western Russia temporarily halted traffic, according to Russian officials. Moscow and Kyiv have increased strikes on each other ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration next week, as both sides seek to gain the upper hand in potential negotiations aimed at settling the nearly three-year war. Also read: Indian man fighting for Russia on Ukraine frontlines dies after desperate pleas to return back home: Report "The Ukrainian Defence Forces carried out the most massive strike against the occupiers' military facilities, at a distance of 200 to 1,100 kilometres (125 to 700 miles) deep into the territory of the Russian Federation," Ukraine's General Staff said in a post on social media. Facilities "in the Bryansk, Saratov, Tula regions and the Republic of Tatarstan were hit," it added. Among the targets were a chemical factory that makes rocket fuel and ammunition for Russia's army, an oil depot near a Russian air base, and an oil refinery. Also read: North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine were told to kill selves before capture: Seoul The governor of Russia's Saratov region, Roman Busargin, said the scale of the attack there was "massive". Schools in the cities of Saratov and Engels were holding classes online on Tuesday because of the attacks, he added. Firefighters had only the day before managed to put out a blaze at an oil depot in the city of Engels, which was hit by a Ukrainian drone strike on January 8. Kyiv's army said it had hit the same site again. Also read: ‘Thought it was training, not combat': Ukraine releases first testimony of captured N Korean soldiers | Watch 'Successful' strike In the energy-rich region of Tatarstan, a Ukrainian drone struck a gas storage tank, sending flames and thick smoke billowing into the sky near the city of Kazan, according to the media and the regional government. Tatar local media said a liquefied gas storage base was hit, and published images showing flames and black smoke. Russia's defence ministry said it had shot down six US-supplied ATACMS missiles and six British Storm Shadow cruise missiles that Ukraine had fired in the attack on the Bryansk region. Ukraine's army had earlier claimed it had hit a chemical plant near the town of Seltso, more than 100 kilometres from the border, that makes ammunition and explosives for Russia's army. "Drones successfully distracted Russian air defences, paving the way for missiles that hit the main targets," the Ukrainian military's Unmanned Systems Forces said. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv is seeking English-speaking soldiers Ukraine regularly targets military and energy sites in Russia, part of what it calls "fair" retaliation for Russia's repeated barrages of its energy grid since Moscow invaded in February 2022. The Ukrainian army vowed to pursue its "systematic" campaign against the Russian military-industrial complex until Russian "armed aggression against Ukraine is completely stopped". The air force separately said that its air defence systems had downed 58 Iranian-designed drones launched by Russia, while another 21 either were destroyed with electronic interference systems or crashed. Russian advances The overnight Ukrainian attacks came at a difficult moment for Kyiv's forces along the front line, particularly in the eastern Donetsk region. City authorities in Pokrovsk, Russia's main target in the region, repeated a call on Tuesday for remaining residents to flee. Around 60,000 people lived in the city before Russia invaded in February 2022. Russian advances have also forced the closure and evacuation of staff from a major coal mine around Pokrovsk, its operator said on Tuesday, another signal of the dangerous proximity of Russian forces to the city. Moscow announced on Tuesday that it had re-captured two Ukrainian villages in the eastern Donetsk region -- Neskuchne and Terny -- that Kyiv had wrested back from Russian control earlier in the conflict: symbolic blows for Kyiv's struggling army. The Russian defence ministry said the area around Neskuchne was a strategically important logistics hub for Ukraine, and published footage showing air strikes against the shells of charred concrete buildings, already completely destroyed by previous attacks. 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 claims to carry out 'most massive strike' on Russia, Moscow vows retaliation

Major coffee chain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/starbucks" rel="dofollow">Starbucks</a> announced a new policy for people using the coffee shops for just hanging out or using the restroom. According to their new code of conduct, the customers now have to buy something or would be asked to leave.&nbsp;
Customers now would not be able to sit in Starbucks cafes unless they buy something.&nbsp;
Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson said the new rules are designed to help prioritise paying customers.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/starbucks-shares-slide-as-preliminary-results-reveal-sales-decline-769971">Starbucks shares slide as preliminary results reveal decline in sales</a>
&ldquo;We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our stores,&rdquo; Anderson said. &ldquo;By setting clear expectations for behaviour and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.&rdquo;
Almost seven years ago, Starbucks allowed people to hang out inside its coffee shops and use the restrooms without having to buy anything.&nbsp;
However, the new policy will come into effect from January 27, and the new code of conduct will be introduced across all Starbucks cafes in the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/starbucks-ceo-niccol-pledges-to-engage-constructively-with-workers-union-762094">Starbucks CEO Niccol pledges to "engage constructively" with workers' union</a>
<h2>'Staff may contact police if people refuse'</h2>
The company said that those who do not make a purchase would be asked to leave and further warned that the staff may contact the police if people refuse to go.&nbsp;
Further, the employees of Starbucks will be given training on the new rules, which will also ban harassment, smoking, and drug and alcohol consumption purchased from outside.&nbsp;
The new policy is being introduced as the chief executive Brian Niccol said in October that he wanted to create &ldquo;that community house experience where people want to be in Starbucks, spend time in Starbucks&rdquo;, as part of its growth plans.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-rise-of-matcha-latte-is-it-show-of-wealth-or-fitness-771411">Rise of Matcha Latte: Is it a show of wealth or fitness?</a>
Niccol was brought into Starbucks last year to help grow the business further. Since then, he has been making efforts to improve the customer experience at Starbucks cafes by revamping its menus.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: Almost seven years ago, Starbucks allowed people to hang out inside its coffee shops and use the restrooms without having to buy anything. 

Major coffee chain Starbucks announced a new policy for people using the coffee shops for just hanging out or using the restroom. According to their new code of conduct, the customers now have to buy something or would be asked to leave. Customers now would not be able to sit in Starbucks cafes unless they buy something. Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson said the new rules are designed to help prioritise paying customers. Also read: Starbucks shares slide as preliminary results reveal decline in sales “We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our stores,” Anderson said. “By setting clear expectations for behaviour and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.” Almost seven years ago, Starbucks allowed people to hang out inside its coffee shops and use the restrooms without having to buy anything. However, the new policy will come into effect from January 27, and the new code of conduct will be introduced across all Starbucks cafes in the US. Also read: Starbucks CEO Niccol pledges to "engage constructively" with workers' union 'Staff may contact police if people refuse' The company said that those who do not make a purchase would be asked to leave and further warned that the staff may contact the police if people refuse to go. Further, the employees of Starbucks will be given training on the new rules, which will also ban harassment, smoking, and drug and alcohol consumption purchased from outside. The new policy is being introduced as the chief executive Brian Niccol said in October that he wanted to create “that community house experience where people want to be in Starbucks, spend time in Starbucks”, as part of its growth plans. Also read: Rise of Matcha Latte: Is it a show of wealth or fitness? Niccol was brought into Starbucks last year to help grow the business further. Since then, he has been making efforts to improve the customer experience at Starbucks cafes by revamping its menus. (With inputs from agencies)

Starbucks introduces new policy, to ask customers 'to buy something' or 'get out'

Tulip Siddiq resigned from her post as the United Kingdom's Treasury minister on Tuesday (Jan 14) amid the constant questions about her financial links to the ousted Bangladesh government led by her aunt Sheikh Hasina. Siddiq was also serving as the City and anti-corruption minister and was not found to have broken any rules by Laurie Magnus, the adviser on ministerial standards.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-agreement-know-whats-in-the-draft-as-israel-hamas-talks-enter-final-stage-8622034" aria-label="Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage">Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage</a>
But Magnus suggested to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer that Siddiq could have been more prone to the reputational risks due to her family ties to Bangladesh.&nbsp;
Siddqiq resigned by stating that she had fully declared all her financial interests and relationships, but it was clear that the situation had become a distraction for the government, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pete-hegseth-trumps-pick-for-def-secy-called-incompetent-during-senate-hearing-8622019" aria-label="Pete Hegseth, Trump&rsquo;s pick for def secy, called &lsquo;incompetent&rsquo; during Senate hearing">Pete Hegseth, Trump&rsquo;s pick for def secy, called &lsquo;incompetent&rsquo; during Senate hearing</a>
&ldquo;Sir Laurie has confirmed that I have not breached the ministerial code. As he notes, there is no evidence to suggest that I have acted improperly about the properties I have owned or lived in," she said in her letter.&nbsp;
She further added, "My family connections are a matter of public record, and when I became a minister, I provided the full details of my relationships and private interests to the government.&rdquo;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-findings-at-1-am-trump-slams-jack-smiths-report-on-jan-6-case-8621954" aria-label="'Fake findings at 1 am,' Trump slams Jack Smith's report on Jan 6 case">'Fake findings at 1 am,' Trump slams Jack Smith's report on Jan 6 case</a>
As per the reports, Siddiq had referred herself to Starmer's adviser on ministerial standards after the reports that she had lived in multiple properties linked to her aunt Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;
Hasina stepped down as Bangladesh's prime minister after a massive student protest. She fled to India and has currently taken asylum in India.&nbsp;
Siddiq was under constant pressure due to her occupancy of several properties, including a two-bedroom flat near King&rsquo;s Cross in central London, owned by Hasina.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/brad-pitt-dupes-french-woman-of-over-800000-using-ai-photos-8621833" aria-label="'Brad Pitt' dupes French woman of over $800,000 using AI photos">'Brad Pitt' dupes French woman of over $800,000 using AI photos</a>
<header class="ssrcss-j2egdy-Header e14e9ror5">
<h2 type="normal" class="ssrcss-ad2rmd-Heading e10rt3ze0">Emma Reynolds to replace Siddiq&nbsp;</h2>
</header>
As per reports, Emma Reynolds, 47, an MP for Wycombe, has been appointed economic secretary to the Treasury following Tulip Siddiq's resignation.
Reynolds, who was elected in the 2024 general election,&nbsp;served as pensions minister prior to her new appointment.
&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: Talib Siddiq, who was also the City and anti-corruption minister, was not found to have broken any rules by Laurie Magnus, the adviser on ministerial standards.

Tulip Siddiq resigned from her post as the United Kingdom's Treasury minister on Tuesday (Jan 14) amid the constant questions about her financial links to the ousted Bangladesh government led by her aunt Sheikh Hasina. Siddiq was also serving as the City and anti-corruption minister and was not found to have broken any rules by Laurie Magnus, the adviser on ministerial standards. Also read | Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage But Magnus suggested to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer that Siddiq could have been more prone to the reputational risks due to her family ties to Bangladesh. Siddqiq resigned by stating that she had fully declared all her financial interests and relationships, but it was clear that the situation had become a distraction for the government, The Guardian reported. Also read | Pete Hegseth, Trump’s pick for def secy, called ‘incompetent’ during Senate hearing “Sir Laurie has confirmed that I have not breached the ministerial code. As he notes, there is no evidence to suggest that I have acted improperly about the properties I have owned or lived in," she said in her letter. She further added, "My family connections are a matter of public record, and when I became a minister, I provided the full details of my relationships and private interests to the government.” Also read | 'Fake findings at 1 am,' Trump slams Jack Smith's report on Jan 6 case As per the reports, Siddiq had referred herself to Starmer's adviser on ministerial standards after the reports that she had lived in multiple properties linked to her aunt Sheikh Hasina. Hasina stepped down as Bangladesh's prime minister after a massive student protest. She fled to India and has currently taken asylum in India. Siddiq was under constant pressure due to her occupancy of several properties, including a two-bedroom flat near King’s Cross in central London, owned by Hasina. Also read | 'Brad Pitt' dupes French woman of over $800,000 using AI photos Emma Reynolds to replace Siddiq As per reports, Emma Reynolds, 47, an MP for Wycombe, has been appointed economic secretary to the Treasury following Tulip Siddiq's resignation. Reynolds, who was elected in the 2024 general election, served as pensions minister prior to her new appointment. (With inputs from agencies)

Emma Reynolds named as new UK's Treasury minister after Tulip Siddiq's resignation

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has called for local government elections following the upcoming national election. The move aims to strengthen democracy and decentralize political power in the country.

Impending elections in Bangladesh: BNP demands national elections by mid 2025

The talks between Israel and Hamas on the ceasefire agreement and hostages deal are in the final stages, as the Palestinian militant group has reportedly accepted a draft agreement on Tuesday for the deal.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, an Israeli official said that progress was made, however, the details were still being finalised.&nbsp;
The war began after the Hamas group attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1200 people and taking around 250 hostages.&nbsp;
Following the attack, Israel retaliated with attacks on the Gaza Strip, and killed more than 64,000 people, according to a study published in The Lancet.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-accepts-draft-agreement-for-gaza-ceasefire-hostage-deal-awaits-israels-approval-report-8621263" rel="dofollow">Hamas accepts draft agreement for Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal; awaits Israel's approval: Report</a>
The officials from the US, as well as Arab countries, have also been playing a key role in the ongoing negotiations.&nbsp;
<h2>What is there in the agreement?</h2>
The Gaza ceasefire agreement is a three-phase plan, based on a framework laid by US President Joe Biden in June 2024.&nbsp;
The first phase would last for six weeks and include a "full and complete ceasefire," the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza, and the release of 33 Israeli hostages on October 7 by the Hamas group, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-expected-to-release-33-hostages-in-first-phase-of-emerging-truce-deal-with-israel-report-8620200" rel="dofollow">Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report</a>
Moreover, by the end of the first phase, all civilian captives, including living or dead, would have been released, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;
The second phase plan would be negotiated during phase one. According to an Associated Press report, "Those details remain difficult to resolve &mdash; and the deal does not include written guarantees that the ceasefire will continue until a deal is reached. That leaves the potential for Israel to resume its military campaign after the first phase ends.&rdquo;
16 days after the agreement takes effect, negotiations will begin for the second phase.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-in-farewell-speech-says-gaza-ceasefire-deal-with-hamas-and-israel-on-the-brink-of-being-finalised-8619662" rel="dofollow">Biden says Gaza ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel 'on the brink' of being finalised</a>
In the second phase, Hamas would release the remaining living hostages, mainly males and soldiers, in exchange for more prisoners and the "complete withdrawal" of Israeli forces from Gaza.&nbsp;
Lastly, in the third phase, any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families.&nbsp;
Moreover, Israel will not fully withdraw its troops from Gaza until all hostages have been returned to their families. The Israeli troops will stay in the border perimeter to defend Israeli border towns and villages.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-denies-receiving-ceasefire-proposal-despite-qatar-says-it-shared-final-hostage-deal-draft-8618427" rel="dofollow">'Breakthrough,' Qatar presents Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal draft to Israel, Hamas</a>
Further, as per the agreement, the unarmed residents of North Gaza would be allowed to return home. The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza will also begin its operations for facilitating the passage of humanitarian cases.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East, Trending: The Israel-Hamas Gaza ceasefire agreement is a three-phase plan based on a framework laid by US President Joe Biden in June 2024. 

The talks between Israel and Hamas on the ceasefire agreement and hostages deal are in the final stages, as the Palestinian militant group has reportedly accepted a draft agreement on Tuesday for the deal. Meanwhile, an Israeli official said that progress was made, however, the details were still being finalised. The war began after the Hamas group attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Following the attack, Israel retaliated with attacks on the Gaza Strip, and killed more than 64,000 people, according to a study published in The Lancet. Also read: Hamas accepts draft agreement for Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal; awaits Israel's approval: Report The officials from the US, as well as Arab countries, have also been playing a key role in the ongoing negotiations. What is there in the agreement? The Gaza ceasefire agreement is a three-phase plan, based on a framework laid by US President Joe Biden in June 2024. The first phase would last for six weeks and include a "full and complete ceasefire," the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza, and the release of 33 Israeli hostages on October 7 by the Hamas group, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Also read: Hamas expected to release 33 hostages in first phase of emerging truce deal with Israel: Report Moreover, by the end of the first phase, all civilian captives, including living or dead, would have been released, according to the Associated Press. The second phase plan would be negotiated during phase one. According to an Associated Press report, "Those details remain difficult to resolve — and the deal does not include written guarantees that the ceasefire will continue until a deal is reached. That leaves the potential for Israel to resume its military campaign after the first phase ends.” 16 days after the agreement takes effect, negotiations will begin for the second phase. Also read: Biden says Gaza ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel 'on the brink' of being finalised In the second phase, Hamas would release the remaining living hostages, mainly males and soldiers, in exchange for more prisoners and the "complete withdrawal" of Israeli forces from Gaza. Lastly, in the third phase, any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families. Moreover, Israel will not fully withdraw its troops from Gaza until all hostages have been returned to their families. The Israeli troops will stay in the border perimeter to defend Israeli border towns and villages. Also read: 'Breakthrough,' Qatar presents Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal draft to Israel, Hamas Further, as per the agreement, the unarmed residents of North Gaza would be allowed to return home. The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza will also begin its operations for facilitating the passage of humanitarian cases. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza truce: Know what's in the draft as Israel-Hamas talks enter final stage

The race for the New Delhi seat in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections is intensifying as candidates ramp up their campaigns. Political parties are focused on securing voter support in the crucial constituency.

Delhi Assembly Elections: Race for New Delhi heats Up

Nawaf Salam delivered his first address as Lebanon's Prime Minister, outlining his vision for the country's future. He emphasized key reforms and efforts to tackle Lebanon's ongoing economic and political challenges.

Nawaf Salam's first address as Lebanon's Prime Minister

The Sydney Funnel Web Spider, one of the world’s deadliest creatures, is known for its potent venom. Found primarily in Australia, it poses a significant threat to humans but is treatable with antivenom.

Sydney funnel web spider, one of world's deadliest

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