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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=meta" rel="dofollow">Meta </a>CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Tuesday (Jan 7) announced that the company will be making some changes to the moderation policies and practices, citing its aim to embrace free speech.&nbsp;
The company will be altering the way posts, videos, and other content are moderated online. It will be getting rid of fact-checkers and will replace them with user-generated "Community notes", which is similar to Elon Musk's X.&nbsp;
This comes just weeks ahead of Donald Trump takes office. US President-elect Trump and other Republicans have been slamming Meta CEO for what they view as censorship of right-wing voices.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/meta-denies-taking-down-its-ai-powered-chatbots-on-instagram-and-facebook-heres-why-8591383" rel="dofollow">Meta denies taking down its AI-powered chatbots from Instagram and Facebook</a>
&ldquo;Fact-checkers have been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they&rsquo;ve created,&rdquo; Zuckerberg said in a video on Tuesday.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What started as a movement to be more inclusive has increasingly been used to shut down opinions and shut out people with different ideas, and it&rsquo;s gone too far," he added.&nbsp;
However, he acknowledged a "tradeoff" in the new policy, noting more harmful content will appear on the platform as a result of the content moderation changes.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-to-donate-1-million-to-trumps-inaugural-fund-after-meta-783729" rel="dofollow">After Meta, Amazon to donate $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund</a>
He further pointed to the election as a major influence on the company's decision and criticised "governments and legacy media" for allegedly pushing "to censor more and more."
"The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech," he said.
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Earlier today, Meta&rsquo;s newly appointed Chief of Global Affairs Joel Kaplan told Fox that the company's partnerships with third-party fact-checkers were &ldquo;well-intentioned at the outset but there&rsquo;s just been too much political bias in what they choose to fact check and how.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meta-restores-global-outages-after-whatsapp-instagram-go-down-chatgpt-goes-offline-783334" rel="dofollow">Meta restores global outages after WhatsApp, Instagram go down, ChatGPT goes offline</a>
<h2>Seeking better relations with Trump</h2>
This comes as Zuckerberg seeks to better relations with Trump before he takes office.&nbsp;
A day earlier, Meta announced Trump ally and UFC CEO Dana White to join its board, along with two other new directors.&nbsp;
Moreover, the company also said that it will donate USD 1 million to Trump&rsquo;s inaugural fund and that Zuckerberg wants to take an &ldquo;active role&rdquo; in tech policy discussions.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World, science & tech: Meta will be altering the way content is moderated online and will be getting rid of fact-checkers, replacing them with "community notes".

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Tuesday (Jan 7) announced that the company will be making some changes to the moderation policies and practices, citing its aim to embrace free speech. The company will be altering the way posts, videos, and other content are moderated online. It will be getting rid of fact-checkers and will replace them with user-generated "Community notes", which is similar to Elon Musk's X. This comes just weeks ahead of Donald Trump takes office. US President-elect Trump and other Republicans have been slamming Meta CEO for what they view as censorship of right-wing voices. Also read: Meta denies taking down its AI-powered chatbots from Instagram and Facebook “Fact-checkers have been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they’ve created,” Zuckerberg said in a video on Tuesday. “What started as a movement to be more inclusive has increasingly been used to shut down opinions and shut out people with different ideas, and it’s gone too far," he added. However, he acknowledged a "tradeoff" in the new policy, noting more harmful content will appear on the platform as a result of the content moderation changes. Also read: After Meta, Amazon to donate $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund He further pointed to the election as a major influence on the company's decision and criticised "governments and legacy media" for allegedly pushing "to censor more and more." "The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech," he said. Earlier today, Meta’s newly appointed Chief of Global Affairs Joel Kaplan told Fox that the company's partnerships with third-party fact-checkers were “well-intentioned at the outset but there’s just been too much political bias in what they choose to fact check and how.” Also read: Meta restores global outages after WhatsApp, Instagram go down, ChatGPT goes offline Seeking better relations with Trump This comes as Zuckerberg seeks to better relations with Trump before he takes office. A day earlier, Meta announced Trump ally and UFC CEO Dana White to join its board, along with two other new directors. Moreover, the company also said that it will donate USD 1 million to Trump’s inaugural fund and that Zuckerberg wants to take an “active role” in tech policy discussions. (With inputs from agencies)

Meta to toss out factcheckers to reduce censorship, restore 'free expression'

Before carrying out the truck attack in Louisiana's New Orleans on January 1, suspect Shamsud-din Jabbar meticulously planned the rampage that killed 14 people.&nbsp;
Citing investigators, a report by CNN early Tuesday (Jan 7) said that Jabbar had been preparing for the Bourbon Street attack for months.
Jabbar was a US Army veteran with a service record of 13 years. Hours before the attack, he had posted videos on social media that he was inspired by the Islamic State and expressed a desire to kill.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-truck-attack-footage-emerges-of-accused-offering-real-estate-services-8584675" rel="dofollow">Good evening, I'm Shamsud-Din Jabbar: Footage emerges of New Orleans truck attack accused offering real estate services</a>
The accused was killed by the police after he exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers.
<h2>How was the rampage planned?</h2>
&gt; As per the CNN report, Jabbar visited New Orleans at least twice in months before the attack, in October and November. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Jabbar stayed in an Airbnb starting from October 30. The stay lasted for at least two days.
&gt; The FBI said that during his visit to New Orleans in October, the man used Meta smart glasses. These glasses are capable of taking photos and videos and use artificial intelligence (AI) to answer questions about an area's surroundings.
&gt; Jabbar rented the Airbnb in the St. Roch neighbourhood about 1.5 miles away from the scene of the attack. He set fire to the rental about 15 minutes after midnight on January 1, just before leaving to carry out the truck attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-terror-attack-jabbar-barricades-were-not-safe-warned-experts-in-2019-8593638" rel="dofollow">New Orleans terror attack could have been prevented? Shocking reports reveal warnings</a>
&gt; After leaving the Airbnb, he placed two improvised explosive devices (IEDs), in coolers on Bourbon Street. CNN reported that he placed one in a rolling cooler and the other in a bucket cooler and left them in the street.
&gt; However, neither of the IEDs detonated. Officials pointed out that the attacker constructed the IEDs using commonly found explosives in the US.
&gt; The FBI said that before entering New Orleans on December 31, Jabbar visited a gun store in Texas, and then another store from where he bought the ice coolers to place the IEDs.
&gt; He earlier rented an electric Ford F-150 pickup truck in Houston using the private vehicle rental website Turo and picked it up on December 30. This truck was used in the attack.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: Jabbar visited New Orleans at least twice in months before the attack, in Oct and Nov. He scouted the area, and set on fire the Airbnb he was living in before the attack. 

Before carrying out the truck attack in Louisiana's New Orleans on January 1, suspect Shamsud-din Jabbar meticulously planned the rampage that killed 14 people. Citing investigators, a report by CNN early Tuesday (Jan 7) said that Jabbar had been preparing for the Bourbon Street attack for months. Jabbar was a US Army veteran with a service record of 13 years. Hours before the attack, he had posted videos on social media that he was inspired by the Islamic State and expressed a desire to kill. Also read | Good evening, I'm Shamsud-Din Jabbar: Footage emerges of New Orleans truck attack accused offering real estate services The accused was killed by the police after he exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers. How was the rampage planned? > As per the CNN report, Jabbar visited New Orleans at least twice in months before the attack, in October and November. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Jabbar stayed in an Airbnb starting from October 30. The stay lasted for at least two days. > The FBI said that during his visit to New Orleans in October, the man used Meta smart glasses. These glasses are capable of taking photos and videos and use artificial intelligence (AI) to answer questions about an area's surroundings. > Jabbar rented the Airbnb in the St. Roch neighbourhood about 1.5 miles away from the scene of the attack. He set fire to the rental about 15 minutes after midnight on January 1, just before leaving to carry out the truck attack. Also read | New Orleans terror attack could have been prevented? Shocking reports reveal warnings > After leaving the Airbnb, he placed two improvised explosive devices (IEDs), in coolers on Bourbon Street. CNN reported that he placed one in a rolling cooler and the other in a bucket cooler and left them in the street. > However, neither of the IEDs detonated. Officials pointed out that the attacker constructed the IEDs using commonly found explosives in the US. > The FBI said that before entering New Orleans on December 31, Jabbar visited a gun store in Texas, and then another store from where he bought the ice coolers to place the IEDs. > He earlier rented an electric Ford F-150 pickup truck in Houston using the private vehicle rental website Turo and picked it up on December 30. This truck was used in the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

New Orleans truck attack | Scouting city, burning Airbnb...: Here's how suspect planned rampage

Argentina's recent economic shifts have triggered a dramatic change in consumer behavior. The country's currency, the peso, strengthened significantly in the second half of 2023, rising three times in real value compared to mid-year levels. This shift has made Argentina a more expensive place to live and shop. For everyday goods, like a Big Mac, Argentines are now paying up to 7,600 pesos, nearly double the cost in neighboring Brazil. Watch in for more details!

Argentina: Bargain Seeking Shoppers Flock To Brazil For Vacations

China announced on January 6 that it has identified over 20 million tons of new copper resources on the Tibetan Plateau since the start of its 14th Five-Year Plan in 2021. This discovery positions Tibet as a potential world-class copper resource hub. The cumulative copper stockpile in the region is now estimated to reach 150 million tons, according to a press release by the China Geological Survey. Watch to know more!

China Discovers Vast Copper Deposit on Tibetan Plateau

In a series of awkward moments captured on camera of the outgoing US Vice President Kamala Harris, a new video has been doing the rounds on the internet showing Republican Senator Deb Fischer's husband refusing to shake hands with the Democrat. The moment was captured on Friday (Jan 3) during the swearing-in ceremony of US senators. The video showed Senator's husband standing stiffly,&nbsp;holding a can in one hand and a bible in the other.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5mi635y-c5hqsgiz-cnvmyyn9">
Wow. The full video of the exchange between <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kamalaharris</a>, Nebraska <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorFischer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorFischer</a> and her asshole husband, Bruce, is even worse. This bastard - a professor at <a href="https://twitter.com/UNLincoln?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNLincoln</a> - was so scared to stand next to her that VP Harris literally said, "It's ok. I won't bite. Don't&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/wQBj9sT37d">pic.twitter.com/wQBj9sT37d</a>
&mdash; rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandsmartin/status/1876386785674064348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
The clip showed that after Fischer was done with her swearing-in, Harris shook hands with her and then moved to Fischer's husband, but he did not reciprocate, following which&nbsp;the vice president jokingly said, "It's okay, I won't bite. Don't worry".
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-offshore-drilling-ban-why-cant-trump-undo-it-read-to-know-8599327" aria-label="Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know">Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know</a>
The Senator's husband seemed smiling - but he did not make eye contact with Harris throughout the process.&nbsp;
<h2>Internet reacts&nbsp;</h2>
As the video circulated on social media, netizens seemed unhappy with the Senator's husband, Bruce Fisher.&nbsp;
American YouTuber and podcaster Brian Tyler Cohen wrote on the social media platform X, "The husband of a Republican senator just refused to shake hands or make eye contact with Vice President Harris. The level of class you can expect from MAGA".&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5mi5o69-2ao2glw2-r2kkx1bf">
The husband of a Republican senator just refused to shake hands or make eye contact with Vice President Harris. The level of class you can expect from MAGA. <a href="https://t.co/hTarflIqlw">pic.twitter.com/hTarflIqlw</a>
&mdash; No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen (@NoLieWithBTC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoLieWithBTC/status/1876313754625089778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
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American author Don Winslow called the gesture "disgraceful". He said Bruce cannot muster a few seconds of class to shake the hands of @VP Kamala Harris. States. IMO, the only thing Bruce showed here was that pigs don't only live on farms. He is a pig."
"Senator Fischer's a**hole husband, Bruce, wouldn't even look her in the eye. In the FULL video, he didn't even want to stand next to her! Stop making excuses. He QUICKLY put his hand in his pocket so as not to touch her," wrote the radio host Roland Martin. 
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jean-marie-le-pen-historic-france-far-right-leader-dies-at-96-8599446" aria-label="Jean-Marie Le Pen, historic France far-right leader, dies at 96">Jean-Marie Le Pen, historic France far-right leader, dies at 96</a>
Meanwhile, Republicans appeared to be saving Bruce, as they said he was holding the can in his hands.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Social media platforms buzzed with disapproval targeting Bruce Fisher as the viral video showcased actions and demeanor that many found objectionable and concerning.

In a series of awkward moments captured on camera of the outgoing US Vice President Kamala Harris, a new video has been doing the rounds on the internet showing Republican Senator Deb Fischer's husband refusing to shake hands with the Democrat. The moment was captured on Friday (Jan 3) during the swearing-in ceremony of US senators. The video showed Senator's husband standing stiffly, holding a can in one hand and a bible in the other. Wow. The full video of the exchange between @VP @kamalaharris, Nebraska @SenatorFischer and her asshole husband, Bruce, is even worse. This bastard - a professor at @UNLincoln - was so scared to stand next to her that VP Harris literally said, "It's ok. I won't bite. Don't… pic.twitter.com/wQBj9sT37d — rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) January 6, 2025 The clip showed that after Fischer was done with her swearing-in, Harris shook hands with her and then moved to Fischer's husband, but he did not reciprocate, following which the vice president jokingly said, "It's okay, I won't bite. Don't worry". Also read | Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know The Senator's husband seemed smiling - but he did not make eye contact with Harris throughout the process. Internet reacts As the video circulated on social media, netizens seemed unhappy with the Senator's husband, Bruce Fisher. American YouTuber and podcaster Brian Tyler Cohen wrote on the social media platform X, "The husband of a Republican senator just refused to shake hands or make eye contact with Vice President Harris. The level of class you can expect from MAGA". Also read | McDonald's faces fresh allegations of widespread workplace harassment in UK The husband of a Republican senator just refused to shake hands or make eye contact with Vice President Harris. The level of class you can expect from MAGA. pic.twitter.com/hTarflIqlw — No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen (@NoLieWithBTC) January 6, 2025 Also read | X suspends journalist for debunking conspiracy that Elon Musk's fan account is Musk himself. Here's what billionaire says American author Don Winslow called the gesture "disgraceful". He said Bruce cannot muster a few seconds of class to shake the hands of @VP Kamala Harris. States. IMO, the only thing Bruce showed here was that pigs don't only live on farms. He is a pig." "Senator Fischer's a**hole husband, Bruce, wouldn't even look her in the eye. In the FULL video, he didn't even want to stand next to her! Stop making excuses. He QUICKLY put his hand in his pocket so as not to touch her," wrote the radio host Roland Martin. Also read | Jean-Marie Le Pen, historic France far-right leader, dies at 96 Meanwhile, Republicans appeared to be saving Bruce, as they said he was holding the can in his hands. (With inputs from agencies)

Awkward moment on camera: Republican Senator's husband refuses to shake hands with Kamala Harris, internet reacts

Jean-Marie Le Pen, the historic leader of France's far right, died on Tuesday aged 96, his family told AFP.
Le Pen, who had been in a care home for several weeks, died at midday (1100 GMT) Tuesday "surrounded by his loved ones", the family said in a statement.
Le Pen, the co-founder of the National Front, sent shockwaves through France in 2002 when he made it to the second round of the presidential election on a staunch anti-immigration platform.
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He was often accused of racism and anti-Semitism, and infamously dismissed the Holocaust as a detail of history.
His daughter Marine Le Pen took the party's leadership in 2011 and booted him out four years later, seeking to distance her movement from his extremist reputation.
The party, since renamed National Rally (RN), has made significant inroads.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-fast-food-join-in-canada-offers-burgers-at-cheap-prices-to-celebrate-trudeaus-resignation-8599054">THIS fast food joint in Canada offers burgers at cheap prices to celebrate Trudeau's resignation: Reports</a>
It showed strong gains in last year's European Parliament elections, and became the largest single party in a subsequent general election in France.
Jordan Bardella, RN party chief and the right-hand man of Marine Le Pen, said in a carefully-worded tribute that Jean-Marie Le Pen had "always served France".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-accuses-elon-musk-of-election-interference-in-germany-8596459">After Germany, France accuses Elon Musk of 'direct intervention' in elections; Norway PM terms it 'worrying'</a>
"As a soldier in the French army in Indochina and Algeria, as a tribune of the people in the National Assembly and the European Parliament, he always served France and defended its identity and sovereignty," the 29-year-old said on X.&nbsp;
"Today I am thinking with sadness of his family, his loved ones, and of course of Marine, whose mourning must be respected."
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.

Le Pen, who had been in a care home for several weeks, died at midday (1100 GMT) Tuesday "surrounded by his loved ones", the family said in a statement.

Jean-Marie Le Pen, the historic leader of France's far right, died on Tuesday aged 96, his family told AFP. Le Pen, who had been in a care home for several weeks, died at midday (1100 GMT) Tuesday "surrounded by his loved ones", the family said in a statement. Le Pen, the co-founder of the National Front, sent shockwaves through France in 2002 when he made it to the second round of the presidential election on a staunch anti-immigration platform. Also read | Pakistan: Minor girls burn father to death for sexually assaulting them He was often accused of racism and anti-Semitism, and infamously dismissed the Holocaust as a detail of history. His daughter Marine Le Pen took the party's leadership in 2011 and booted him out four years later, seeking to distance her movement from his extremist reputation. The party, since renamed National Rally (RN), has made significant inroads. Also read | THIS fast food joint in Canada offers burgers at cheap prices to celebrate Trudeau's resignation: Reports It showed strong gains in last year's European Parliament elections, and became the largest single party in a subsequent general election in France. Jordan Bardella, RN party chief and the right-hand man of Marine Le Pen, said in a carefully-worded tribute that Jean-Marie Le Pen had "always served France". Also read | After Germany, France accuses Elon Musk of 'direct intervention' in elections; Norway PM terms it 'worrying' "As a soldier in the French army in Indochina and Algeria, as a tribune of the people in the National Assembly and the European Parliament, he always served France and defended its identity and sovereignty," the 29-year-old said on X. "Today I am thinking with sadness of his family, his loved ones, and of course of Marine, whose mourning must be respected." 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.

Jean-Marie Le Pen, historic France far-right leader, dies at 96

The Taiwanese military conducted combat training exercises on Tuesday, simulating the defense against a potential Chinese incursion. These drills were part of broader military preparations aimed at enhancing troop readiness ahead of the Lunar New Year. Watch to know more!

China-Taiwan Tensions: Island Holds Military Drills As Concerns Rise Over Possible Invasion

A series of aftershocks have hit Tibet following a deadly 6.8-magnitude earthquake Tuesday morning, and further tremors could be possible in the region. 95 people have been confirmed dead, and several injured as of 12:30 Tuesday

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The U.S. has added Chinese tech giants to its military association list, citing concerns over their alleged links to military activities, marking a significant move in the ongoing tech and trade tensions between the two nations.

U.S. expands military association list, targets Chinese tech giants for their alleged Military ties

<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-color: black; border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0cm; padding: 0cm; background: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IN; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">French President Emmanuel Macron is the latest leader to join a growing chorus of European criticism of billionaire Elon Musk, now also a close of US President-elect Donald Trump. Accusing the world&rsquo;s richest man of intervening directly in the continent&rsquo;s democratic processes, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/frances-macron-acknowledges-that-dissolving-parliament-in-2024-brought-instability">Emmanuel Macron</a> said the SpaceX and Tesla boss was directly intervening in elections.
The French President&nbsp;on Monday (January 6) accused billionaire Elon Musk, the owner of social media platform X, of meddling in elections, including Germany&rsquo;s upcoming snap polls.
"Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany," Macron said in a speech to French ambassadors.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-slams-elon-musk-for-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-uk-grooming-gang-scandal-8596082">'A line has been crossed': UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'</a>
Macron&rsquo;s comment comes after Musk&rsquo;s recent posts about the German elections and his comments on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
This is not the first time such accusations have been levelled against the X boss.
Last month, Macron hosted world leaders, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-slams-joe-biden-mourning-for-jimmy-carter-or-democrat-conspiracy-trump-criticises-biden-for-half-mast-flags-8592688">Donald Trump</a> and Elon Musk, to celebrate the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. The 860-year-old landmark had been severely damaged by fire in 2019 but has now been restored.
<h2>&lsquo;I find it worrying&rsquo;: Norwegian Prime Minister&nbsp;</h2>
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said on Monday that he was concerned by billionaire Elon Musk's recent statements on the internal affairs of European nations.
"I find it worrying that a man with considerable access to social networks and significant economic resources is so directly involved in the internal affairs of other countries," Store said. While both the French president and the Norwegian prime minister refrained from mentioning the billionaire by name, there was no doubt who they were talking about. Musk, who owns the social media platform X, is a close ally of Donald Trump and has been asked by the incoming U.S. president to cut the federal budget as a special adviser.
Earlier, Germany said, "It is indeed the case that Elon Musk is trying to influence the federal election."
<h2>Scholz responds to Musk&rsquo;s comments </h2>
On Sunday (January 5), German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Musk&rsquo;s recent statements, including insults aimed at him, referring to Musk as a &ldquo;troll.&rdquo; Speaking to the German magazine Stern, Scholz said, &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t feed the troll,&rdquo; when questioned about Musk&rsquo;s comments.
&ldquo;You have to stay cool. As Social Democrats, we have long been used to the fact that there are rich media entrepreneurs who do not appreciate social democratic politics and do not hide their opinions,&rdquo; Scholz said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigel-farages-hero-elon-musk-thinks-he-doesnt-have-what-it-takes-to-lead-reform-uk-8593973">Nigel Farage's 'hero' Elon Musk thinks he 'doesn&rsquo;t have what it takes' to lead Reform UK</a>
The Chancellor added he had no interest in engaging with Musk, adding, &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t believe in courting Mr Musk&rsquo;s favour. I&rsquo;m happy to leave that to others. The rule is: don&rsquo;t feed the troll.&rdquo;
Scholz had condemned Musk for his erratic comments after the billionaire labelled the German leader an incompetent fool. The Chancellor also warned voters not to let the owners of social media channels decide the snap elections in February
Musk has publicly endorsed Germany&rsquo;s far-right Alternative f&uuml;r Deutschland (AfD) party ahead of the February federal elections. He also plans to host a live discussion with Alice Weidel, the AfD&rsquo;s chancellor candidate, on his platform, X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-replies-to-starlink-appeal-from-pakistan-user-waiting-for-approval-8593658">Musk replies to Starlink appeal from Pakistan user: &lsquo;Waiting for approval&rsquo;</a>
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also slammed those "spreading lies and misinformation". 
&nbsp;
Starmer's comments followed days of incendiary posts by Musk on his X platform over historical sex offences against children in Northern England.
Musk has accused Starmer of being "deeply complicit in the mass rapes&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
According to one report, senior politicians in three of Britain&rsquo;s biggest parties&mdash;Labour, Liberal Democrats and Reform&mdash;have privately urged Donald Trump&rsquo;s allies to reconsider his relationship with Elon Musk.<o:p></o:p>
&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: After his comments on Elon Musk, French President Emmanuel Macron also said that US President-elect Donald Trump “knows he has a strong ally in France.”

French President Emmanuel Macron is the latest leader to join a growing chorus of European criticism of billionaire Elon Musk, now also a close of US President-elect Donald Trump. Accusing the world’s richest man of intervening directly in the continent’s democratic processes, Emmanuel Macron said the SpaceX and Tesla boss was directly intervening in elections. The French President on Monday (January 6) accused billionaire Elon Musk, the owner of social media platform X, of meddling in elections, including Germany’s upcoming snap polls. "Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany," Macron said in a speech to French ambassadors. Also read: 'A line has been crossed': UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation' Macron’s comment comes after Musk’s recent posts about the German elections and his comments on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This is not the first time such accusations have been levelled against the X boss. Last month, Macron hosted world leaders, including Donald Trump and Elon Musk, to celebrate the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. The 860-year-old landmark had been severely damaged by fire in 2019 but has now been restored. ‘I find it worrying’: Norwegian Prime Minister Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said on Monday that he was concerned by billionaire Elon Musk's recent statements on the internal affairs of European nations. "I find it worrying that a man with considerable access to social networks and significant economic resources is so directly involved in the internal affairs of other countries," Store said. While both the French president and the Norwegian prime minister refrained from mentioning the billionaire by name, there was no doubt who they were talking about. Musk, who owns the social media platform X, is a close ally of Donald Trump and has been asked by the incoming U.S. president to cut the federal budget as a special adviser. Earlier, Germany said, "It is indeed the case that Elon Musk is trying to influence the federal election." Scholz responds to Musk’s comments On Sunday (January 5), German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Musk’s recent statements, including insults aimed at him, referring to Musk as a “troll.” Speaking to the German magazine Stern, Scholz said, “Don’t feed the troll,” when questioned about Musk’s comments. “You have to stay cool. As Social Democrats, we have long been used to the fact that there are rich media entrepreneurs who do not appreciate social democratic politics and do not hide their opinions,” Scholz said. Also read: Nigel Farage's 'hero' Elon Musk thinks he 'doesn’t have what it takes' to lead Reform UK The Chancellor added he had no interest in engaging with Musk, adding, “I don’t believe in courting Mr Musk’s favour. I’m happy to leave that to others. The rule is: don’t feed the troll.” Scholz had condemned Musk for his erratic comments after the billionaire labelled the German leader an incompetent fool. The Chancellor also warned voters not to let the owners of social media channels decide the snap elections in February Musk has publicly endorsed Germany’s far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party ahead of the February federal elections. He also plans to host a live discussion with Alice Weidel, the AfD’s chancellor candidate, on his platform, X. Also read: Musk replies to Starlink appeal from Pakistan user: ‘Waiting for approval’ British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also slammed those "spreading lies and misinformation". Starmer's comments followed days of incendiary posts by Musk on his X platform over historical sex offences against children in Northern England. Musk has accused Starmer of being "deeply complicit in the mass rapes”. According to one report, senior politicians in three of Britain’s biggest parties—Labour, Liberal Democrats and Reform—have privately urged Donald Trump’s allies to reconsider his relationship with Elon Musk. (With inputs from agencies)

After Germany, France accuses Elon Musk of 'direct intervention' in elections; Norway PM terms it 'worrying'

An outlet of the famous American fast food joint Dairy Queen in Canada's Langley is reportedly offering burgers at cheap prices to celebrate the resignation of Justin Trudeau from the prime&nbsp;minister's post.&nbsp;
According to Canadian media reports on Monday (Jan 6), Dairy Queen Langley was offering the "Trudeau resignation special" with $1.40 burgers (CA$2).
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Made it to Dairy Queen in Langley City with my buddy Augustino to grab the $2 burger deal. Guess even Justin Trudeau&rsquo;s resignation is finally helping Canadians save a buck&mdash;took him long enough! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrudeauResignation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrudeauResignation</a> <a href="https://t.co/u6knVsEAMa">pic.twitter.com/u6knVsEAMa</a>
&mdash; Harman Bhangu (@HarmanBhanguBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarmanBhanguBC/status/1876429139479335039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trudeaus-resignation-speech-notes-blow-away-ahead-of-announcement-ill-wing-it-8598049" rel="dofollow">Trudeau&rsquo;s resignation speech notes blow away ahead of announcement; 'I'll wing it'</a>
The reports said that apart from the cheap burgers, the fast food joint was also offering Poutine (a dish made of french fries, topped with cheese curds and gravy) at $3.49.
<h2>Trudeau resigns as Liberal Party leader, will stay on as PM for time being</h2>
On Monday, Justin Trudeau announced that he was stepping down as the leader of the Liberal Party but would continue his PM duties until a new leader was appointed.
Addressing a press conference, Trudeau, who had been in power for nearly a decade, said, "I don&rsquo;t easily back down faced with a fight, especially a very important one for our party and the country. But I do this job because the interests of Canadians and the well-being of democracy&rdquo; are &ldquo;something that I hold dear.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
SPOTTED in Langley BC Dairy Queen is offering $2 burgers to celebrate the RESIGNATION of Justin Trudeau <a href="https://t.co/tZz44Toogn">pic.twitter.com/tZz44Toogn</a>
&mdash; The Pleb 🌍 Reporter (@truckdriverpleb) <a href="https://twitter.com/truckdriverpleb/status/1876379144986218850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote>

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He said the parliament, which had been due to resume on January 27, would be suspended until March 24. The timing will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race.
Trudeau announced his decision after there was rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government signalled by the departure of his finance minister, Chrystia Freeland.
<h2>'Trudeau resigned because...'</h2>
Meanwhile, Trudeau's decision to continue as PM till a new leader was appointed came as Canada braced for the start of the second Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) and the Republican's threats of 25 per cent tariffs on imports from Canada.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reiterates-proposal-to-make-canada-51st-state-after-trudeau-resigns-8597494" rel="dofollow">Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns</a>
After Trudeau&rsquo;s announcement, Trump, who for weeks has referred to Canada as the 51st state, did so again and claimed on social media that the prime minister resigned because Ottawa relies on subsidies from Washington to stay afloat.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Trending: On Monday, Justin Trudeau announced that he was resigning as the Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party and would continue his duties until a new leader is chosen.

An outlet of the famous American fast food joint Dairy Queen in Canada's Langley is reportedly offering burgers at cheap prices to celebrate the resignation of Justin Trudeau from the prime minister's post. According to Canadian media reports on Monday (Jan 6), Dairy Queen Langley was offering the "Trudeau resignation special" with $1.40 burgers (CA$2). Made it to Dairy Queen in Langley City with my buddy Augustino to grab the $2 burger deal. Guess even Justin Trudeau’s resignation is finally helping Canadians save a buck—took him long enough! #TrudeauResignation pic.twitter.com/u6knVsEAMa — Harman Bhangu (@HarmanBhanguBC) January 7, 2025 Also read | Trudeau’s resignation speech notes blow away ahead of announcement; 'I'll wing it' The reports said that apart from the cheap burgers, the fast food joint was also offering Poutine (a dish made of french fries, topped with cheese curds and gravy) at $3.49. Trudeau resigns as Liberal Party leader, will stay on as PM for time being On Monday, Justin Trudeau announced that he was stepping down as the leader of the Liberal Party but would continue his PM duties until a new leader was appointed. Addressing a press conference, Trudeau, who had been in power for nearly a decade, said, "I don’t easily back down faced with a fight, especially a very important one for our party and the country. But I do this job because the interests of Canadians and the well-being of democracy” are “something that I hold dear.” SPOTTED in Langley BC Dairy Queen is offering $2 burgers to celebrate the RESIGNATION of Justin Trudeau pic.twitter.com/tZz44Toogn — The Pleb 🌍 Reporter (@truckdriverpleb) January 6, 2025 He said the parliament, which had been due to resume on January 27, would be suspended until March 24. The timing will allow for a Liberal Party leadership race. Trudeau announced his decision after there was rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government signalled by the departure of his finance minister, Chrystia Freeland. 'Trudeau resigned because...' Meanwhile, Trudeau's decision to continue as PM till a new leader was appointed came as Canada braced for the start of the second Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) and the Republican's threats of 25 per cent tariffs on imports from Canada. Also read | Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns After Trudeau’s announcement, Trump, who for weeks has referred to Canada as the 51st state, did so again and claimed on social media that the prime minister resigned because Ottawa relies on subsidies from Washington to stay afloat. (With inputs from agencies)

THIS fast food joint in Canada slashes burger prices to celebrate Trudeau's resignation: Reports

A strange conspiracy theory has been debunked that an account on the social media platform X claiming to be a fan of Elon Musk is actually the billionaire himself. A journalist named Jacqueline Sweet revealed in her article published in the UK magazine The Spectator that the account belongs to a man living in Fiji.&nbsp;
Just after her claim was published, Sweet said on Sunday (Jan 5) that her account on X (platform owned by Musk) had been suspended.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-offshore-drilling-ban-why-cant-trump-undo-it-read-to-know-8599327" aria-label="Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know">Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know</a>
It was revealed that the account under the name Adrian Dittmann belongs to a man of the same name who is a businessman in Fiji and an admirer of Musk. Dittmann regularly posts in favour of Musk and even has a similar voice to the Tesla CEO. He also has been engaged with Musk on conservations on various X "Spaces" and has said that he does not desire to reveal much about him, fearing people will come after him for posts praising Musk.&nbsp;
After Sweet posted a link to her story on X saying that Musk was not Dittmann, the billionaire replied strangely, saying, &ldquo;I am Adrian Dittmann. It&rsquo;s time the world knew." It was Musk's sarcasm or he was serious, nobody knows.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mcdonalds-faces-fresh-allegations-of-widespread-workplace-harassment-in-uk-restaurants-discrimination-homophobia-racism-ableism-and-harassment-8599153" aria-label="McDonald's faces fresh allegations of widespread workplace harassment in UK">McDonald's faces fresh allegations of widespread workplace harassment in UK</a>
Sweet informed about the suspension of her X account on a rival social media platform called Bluesky. She claimed that her post was taken down and the account has been suspended for 30 days. She further posted some screenshots of the message she received from X that claimed the reason behind Sweet's account suspension was her post that violates X's rules. The platform said the issue is related to "Posting Private Information.&rdquo;
"I think Elon is mad I ruined his stupid game of laughing at his critics who believe Adrian Dittmann is his alt and took his toys and went home,&rdquo; Sweet said on Bluesky.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-fast-food-join-in-canada-offers-burgers-at-cheap-prices-to-celebrate-trudeaus-resignation-8599054" aria-label="THIS fast food join in Canada offers burgers at cheap prices to celebrate Trudeau's resignation: Reports">THIS fast food join in Canada offers burgers at cheap prices to celebrate Trudeau's resignation: Reports</a>
Matt McDonald, US managing editor of The Spectator, wrote in an article on Monday (Jan 6) that Sweet's article did not reveal any information such as the phone number, email, or address of anyone.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not so much about who Adrian Dittmann is as about who he isn&rsquo;t: presenting the case that Dittmann is not, in fact, secretly the richest man in the world is clearly in the public interest and has news value, particularly considering Musk&rsquo;s recently developed interest in government and international affairs,&rdquo; McDonald wrote.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-experts-calls-on-china-to-provide-key-information-on-hmpv-outbreak-as-cases-double-in-britain-8599149" aria-label="UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain">UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain</a>
Furthermore, regarding the ongoing issue, Dittmann posted saying he is not Elon Musk.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: This event raises questions about the consistency and transparency of content moderation policies and how they impact public discourse and individual expression.

A strange conspiracy theory has been debunked that an account on the social media platform X claiming to be a fan of Elon Musk is actually the billionaire himself. A journalist named Jacqueline Sweet revealed in her article published in the UK magazine The Spectator that the account belongs to a man living in Fiji. Just after her claim was published, Sweet said on Sunday (Jan 5) that her account on X (platform owned by Musk) had been suspended. Also read | Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know It was revealed that the account under the name Adrian Dittmann belongs to a man of the same name who is a businessman in Fiji and an admirer of Musk. Dittmann regularly posts in favour of Musk and even has a similar voice to the Tesla CEO. He also has been engaged with Musk on conservations on various X "Spaces" and has said that he does not desire to reveal much about him, fearing people will come after him for posts praising Musk. After Sweet posted a link to her story on X saying that Musk was not Dittmann, the billionaire replied strangely, saying, “I am Adrian Dittmann. It’s time the world knew." It was Musk's sarcasm or he was serious, nobody knows. Also read | McDonald's faces fresh allegations of widespread workplace harassment in UK Sweet informed about the suspension of her X account on a rival social media platform called Bluesky. She claimed that her post was taken down and the account has been suspended for 30 days. She further posted some screenshots of the message she received from X that claimed the reason behind Sweet's account suspension was her post that violates X's rules. The platform said the issue is related to "Posting Private Information.” "I think Elon is mad I ruined his stupid game of laughing at his critics who believe Adrian Dittmann is his alt and took his toys and went home,” Sweet said on Bluesky. Also read | THIS fast food join in Canada offers burgers at cheap prices to celebrate Trudeau's resignation: Reports Matt McDonald, US managing editor of The Spectator, wrote in an article on Monday (Jan 6) that Sweet's article did not reveal any information such as the phone number, email, or address of anyone. “It’s not so much about who Adrian Dittmann is as about who he isn’t: presenting the case that Dittmann is not, in fact, secretly the richest man in the world is clearly in the public interest and has news value, particularly considering Musk’s recently developed interest in government and international affairs,” McDonald wrote. Also read | UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain Furthermore, regarding the ongoing issue, Dittmann posted saying he is not Elon Musk. (With inputs from agencies)

X suspends journalist for debunking conspiracy that Elon Musk's fan account is Musk himself. Here's what billionaire says

In a celebratory moment, French President Emmanuel Macron is seen cutting a giant cake at the Elysee Palace, marking a special occasion.

French President Emmanuel Macron cuts a giant cake in Elysee Palace

As US President Joe Biden announced the ban on new offshore oil and gas development along most US coastlines in the closing weeks of his term in office, a US-based energy research firm said that President-elect Donald Trump would not be able to reverse Biden's action.&nbsp;
ClearView Energy Partners Director of Research Kevin Book told Newsweek, "Our perception is that it can't be reversed by executive action", adding that this is not the same thing as saying that it cannot be reversed, however.&nbsp;
Biden's order comes amid Trump's pledge to "drill, baby, drill" campaign slogan. His slogan has become synonymous with his plan to boost fossil fuel production in the US and reverse climate policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-bans-offshore-drilling-across-most-us-coastlines-trump-vows-reversal-8597214" rel="dofollow">Biden bans offshore drilling across most US coastlines, Trump vows reversal</a>
Trump, while seeking reelection in 2020, withdrew waters in parts of the South Atlantic coast for 10 years. However, an earlier showdown over offshore drilling in other waters provided a test of presidential powers, Book said.&nbsp;
Biden used the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, a law that permits presidents to limit future drilling in federal waters.&nbsp;
Trump and Biden, both have used the law in their terms, to temporarily withdraw offshore tracts where drilling was environmentally damaging or politically contentious.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-blair-hits-us-massive-transport-energy-chaos-erupts-in-seven-states-five-dead-8598077" rel="dofollow">Storm Blair hits US: Massive transport, energy chaos erupts in seven states; five dead</a>
Earlier, Barack Obama also withdrew large stretches of waters from drilling. But, in 2017, Trump issued an executive order to reverse Obama's action and restore future drilling permits.&nbsp;
However, later, the US District Court for Alaska found that Trump did not have the authority to reverse Obama's action. But, before an appeals court heard the case, Biden took over the administration and reversed Trump's policy.&nbsp;
Noting the past actions on the law, Kevin Book noted that it would take an act of Congress to undo Biden's latest action, withdrawing federal waters from future drilling permits.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hush-money-case-judge-rejects-trumps-plea-to-delay-sentencing-8597798" rel="dofollow">Hush money case: Judge rejects Trump&rsquo;s plea to delay sentencing</a>
"Congress could pass a law reopening the withdrawn real estate, and Republicans might be able to do so on a party-line basis," Book said.
<h2>Trump calls it 'ridiculous'</h2>
After Biden announced a permanent ban on 625 million acres off the US coastline, including the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, and parts of the Northern Bering Sea, Trump said it is "ridiculous" and he will "unban it immediately".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-formally-certifies-donald-trumps-election-as-president-8597130" rel="dofollow">US Congress certifies Trump's election as president, four years after Capitol riot</a>
He further accused President Biden of doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible&rdquo;.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump and Biden, both have used the law in their terms, to temporarily withdraw offshore tracts where drilling was environmentally damaging or politically contentious.

As US President Joe Biden announced the ban on new offshore oil and gas development along most US coastlines in the closing weeks of his term in office, a US-based energy research firm said that President-elect Donald Trump would not be able to reverse Biden's action. ClearView Energy Partners Director of Research Kevin Book told Newsweek, "Our perception is that it can't be reversed by executive action", adding that this is not the same thing as saying that it cannot be reversed, however. Biden's order comes amid Trump's pledge to "drill, baby, drill" campaign slogan. His slogan has become synonymous with his plan to boost fossil fuel production in the US and reverse climate policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Also read: Biden bans offshore drilling across most US coastlines, Trump vows reversal Trump, while seeking reelection in 2020, withdrew waters in parts of the South Atlantic coast for 10 years. However, an earlier showdown over offshore drilling in other waters provided a test of presidential powers, Book said. Biden used the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, a law that permits presidents to limit future drilling in federal waters. Trump and Biden, both have used the law in their terms, to temporarily withdraw offshore tracts where drilling was environmentally damaging or politically contentious. Also read: Storm Blair hits US: Massive transport, energy chaos erupts in seven states; five dead Earlier, Barack Obama also withdrew large stretches of waters from drilling. But, in 2017, Trump issued an executive order to reverse Obama's action and restore future drilling permits. However, later, the US District Court for Alaska found that Trump did not have the authority to reverse Obama's action. But, before an appeals court heard the case, Biden took over the administration and reversed Trump's policy. Noting the past actions on the law, Kevin Book noted that it would take an act of Congress to undo Biden's latest action, withdrawing federal waters from future drilling permits. Also read: Hush money case: Judge rejects Trump’s plea to delay sentencing "Congress could pass a law reopening the withdrawn real estate, and Republicans might be able to do so on a party-line basis," Book said. Trump calls it 'ridiculous' After Biden announced a permanent ban on 625 million acres off the US coastline, including the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, and parts of the Northern Bering Sea, Trump said it is "ridiculous" and he will "unban it immediately". Also read: US Congress certifies Trump's election as president, four years after Capitol riot He further accused President Biden of doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible”. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know

Artificial intelligence-powered chatbots helped consumers purchase and return products during the 2024 holiday season, boosting online sales in the United States by nearly 4% year-over-year, according to a report by Salesforce. Watch to know more!

AI Chatbots Drive 4% Surge in US Holiday Online Sales in 2024: Report

Irrfan Khan’s 57th Birth Anniversary: Though Irrfan Khan is no longer with us, his remarkable contributions to cinema continue to be celebrated. On his 57th birth anniversary, we honor his profound legacy, which transcended Bollywood to leave an indelible mark on global audiences. His performances remain a source of inspiration, touching hearts worldwide and keeping his memory alive. Watch to know more!

Irrfan Khan's 57th Birth Anniversary: India Celebrates Actor’s Iconic, Award-Winning Films

China Earthquake:  A series of aftershocks have hit China's Xizang Autonomous Region following  a deadly 6.8-magnitude earthquake Tuesday morning, and further tremors could be possible in the region. 95 people have been confirmed dead, and several injured as of 12:30 Tuesday

Tibet Earthquake: 6.8 magnitude quake struck near Dingri county says Chinese media

Generation Beta is emerging as a green, tech-driven, and innovative force, poised to reshape the future with their eco-conscious mindset and technological prowess.

Generation beta: 2025 welcomes eco-conscious, tech-savvy, and future shapers

McDonald's, the American fast food giant, is facing fresh claims of widespread harassment in the UK as hundreds of its current and former workers join to launch legal action against the company.
Workers who worked at McDonald's when they were 19 or younger have instructed law firm Leigh Day to take legal action on their behalf. The charges against the fast-food giant include discrimination, homophobia, racism, ableism, and harassment.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/generating-sharing-explicit-deepfakes-to-be-a-crime-in-uk-now-8599116">Generating, sharing explicit 'deepfakes' to be a crime in UK now</a>
The fresh legal action against McDonald's comes as Alistair Macrow, the company's UK chief executive, prepares to face MPs on Tuesday (Jan 7) on the issue of employment rights.
As per Paul Nowak, general secretary at the Trades Union Congress, Macrow &ldquo;has serious questions to answer&rdquo;.
&ldquo;This investigation has exposed how sexual harassment and insecure work can go hand in hand.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-mela-2025-10-essential-tips-and-facts-to-know-before-you-go-8599085">Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: 10 Essential tips and facts to know before you go</a>
<h2>Stories of abuse</h2>
Talking to BBC, an ex-employee identified as Matt said that his colleagues were scared to go to work because their managers would &ldquo;touch up&rdquo; some of them.
Another worker Claire revealed that while working at McDonald's as a 17-year-old, her manager, who was in his 30s, would demand sex for extra shifts.
A third person, currently working at McDonald's has faced homophobic comments from managers and colleagues.
&ldquo;Things said to me shouldn&rsquo;t be said to anyone, I've been called names like 'faggot'. These comments make me feel really uncomfortable &ndash; I hate working there,&rdquo; they said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-us-man-asks-indians-to-sign-petition-to-stop-spread-of-h1b-virus-8599073">VIDEO: US man asks Indians to sign petition to 'stop spread of H1B virus'</a>
The law firm, Leigh Day, as per an Independent report, detailed incidents where workers were repeatedly pestered for sex, or subjected to sexually explicit questions like how many people they've slept with.
<h2>A history of abuse</h2>
McDonald's, one of the largest employers in the UK, employs over 170,000 people, with an average age of 20, in its 1,450 restaurants.
Leigh Day, the law firm, said that it believes junior crew members and staff are entitled to bring claims against the company, regardless of whether they've directly experienced harassment and abuse.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-in-chinas-tibet-region-kills-9-many-buildings-collapsed-8597410">Tibet earthquake: Death toll rises to 95 as several buildings collapse in region</a>
Previously, a separate BBC investigation in 2023 had workers report sexual assault, harassment, racism, and bullying in the workplace at McDonald's.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | McDonald's faces new allegations of widespread workplace harassment in the UK, with hundreds of workers joining a legal action against the fast-food giant.

McDonald's, the American fast food giant, is facing fresh claims of widespread harassment in the UK as hundreds of its current and former workers join to launch legal action against the company. Workers who worked at McDonald's when they were 19 or younger have instructed law firm Leigh Day to take legal action on their behalf. The charges against the fast-food giant include discrimination, homophobia, racism, ableism, and harassment. Also read | Generating, sharing explicit 'deepfakes' to be a crime in UK now The fresh legal action against McDonald's comes as Alistair Macrow, the company's UK chief executive, prepares to face MPs on Tuesday (Jan 7) on the issue of employment rights. As per Paul Nowak, general secretary at the Trades Union Congress, Macrow “has serious questions to answer”. “This investigation has exposed how sexual harassment and insecure work can go hand in hand.” Also read | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: 10 Essential tips and facts to know before you go Stories of abuse Talking to BBC, an ex-employee identified as Matt said that his colleagues were scared to go to work because their managers would “touch up” some of them. Another worker Claire revealed that while working at McDonald's as a 17-year-old, her manager, who was in his 30s, would demand sex for extra shifts. A third person, currently working at McDonald's has faced homophobic comments from managers and colleagues. “Things said to me shouldn’t be said to anyone, I've been called names like 'faggot'. These comments make me feel really uncomfortable – I hate working there,” they said. Also read | VIDEO: US man asks Indians to sign petition to 'stop spread of H1B virus' The law firm, Leigh Day, as per an Independent report, detailed incidents where workers were repeatedly pestered for sex, or subjected to sexually explicit questions like how many people they've slept with. A history of abuse McDonald's, one of the largest employers in the UK, employs over 170,000 people, with an average age of 20, in its 1,450 restaurants. Leigh Day, the law firm, said that it believes junior crew members and staff are entitled to bring claims against the company, regardless of whether they've directly experienced harassment and abuse. Also read | Tibet earthquake: Death toll rises to 95 as several buildings collapse in region Previously, a separate BBC investigation in 2023 had workers report sexual assault, harassment, racism, and bullying in the workplace at McDonald's. (With inputs from agencies)

McDonald's faces fresh allegations of widespread workplace harassment in UK

Despite a stunning century from Pakistan captain Shan Masood and a determined batting effort to erase the follow-on deficit, South Africa cruised to a 10-wicket win, securing a dominant 2-0 series victory on home soil. Watch to know more!

SA vs PAK, 2nd Test: South Africa Beats Pakistan, Completes Series Clean Sweep

As people have begun freaking out about the potential outbreak of the respiratory infection Human Metapneumovirus (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=HMPV" rel="dofollow">HMPV</a>), the top UK virus experts have called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information on the infection, Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;
Virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole said the UK authorities "need more information on the specific strain circulating" in order to accurately assess the threat to the people living in Britain.&nbsp;
This comes as infection cases have surged across the UK, with cold-like symptoms. According to the graphs, the numbers have doubled over the last month.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-there-no-hmpv-vaccine-despite-the-viruss-discovery-24-years-ago-8598516" rel="dofollow">Why is there no HMPV vaccine despite the virus's discovery 24 years ago?</a>
According to the latest UK surveillance data, as many as one in 20 cases of respiratory infections could be due to the HMPV infection.&nbsp;
"HMPV is usually detected in the winter periods but it does seem that the rates of serious infection may be higher in China than what we would expect in a normal year," said Dr Catchpole, the Chief Scientific Officer at infectious disease testing firm hVIVO.
"We need more information on the specific strain that is circulating to start to understand if this is the usual circulating strain or if the virus causing high infection rates in China has some differences," he added.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-hmpv-cases-rise-to-7-in-a-day-health-minister-assures-no-reason-to-worry-8597968" rel="dofollow"> India: HMPV cases rise to seven in a day; health minister says &lsquo;no reason to worry&rsquo;</a>
Catchpole further said that it is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are coming up purely due to coinciding with high flu and Covid levels.&nbsp;
He further noted that while HMPV "does mutate and change over time with new strains emerging', it is 'not a virus considered to have pandemic potential".&nbsp;
Meanwhile, multiple experts urged people not to panic as the majority of infections cause "mild, cold-like symptoms".&nbsp;
However, Jaya Dantas, a professor of international health at Curtin University in Australia warned, "In young children, the elderly, and those who are immune compromised, hMPV can lead to severe cases and can move to the lower respiratory tract and may lead to pneumonia."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hmpv-in-india-old-posts-on-covid-not-emergency-resurface-netizens-react-is-hmpv-like-covid-19-8596373" rel="dofollow">Old posts claiming 'COVID-19 is not a health emergency' resurface amid rising HMPV cases</a>
"We need to use a cautious and measured approach, as we know so much more since the Covid pandemic," Jaya added.
<h2>Cases surge in US</h2>
According to new data, the HMPV virus is also widely spreading in the US. Following this, Western specialists have urged China to be more open about an outbreak of influenza.&nbsp;
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that less than 300 positive test results were recorded in the last week of December.
It said that the CDC is "monitoring" the instances in China, adding that the current cases are "not currently a cause for concern in the US.&rdquo;
China has said that respiratory ailments are "less severe" and "smaller in size" than they were in 2024.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole said the UK authorities "need more information on the specific strain circulating" to accurately assess the threat to the people. 

As people have begun freaking out about the potential outbreak of the respiratory infection Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), the top UK virus experts have called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information on the infection, Daily Mail reported. Virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole said the UK authorities "need more information on the specific strain circulating" in order to accurately assess the threat to the people living in Britain. This comes as infection cases have surged across the UK, with cold-like symptoms. According to the graphs, the numbers have doubled over the last month. Also read: Why is there no HMPV vaccine despite the virus's discovery 24 years ago? According to the latest UK surveillance data, as many as one in 20 cases of respiratory infections could be due to the HMPV infection. "HMPV is usually detected in the winter periods but it does seem that the rates of serious infection may be higher in China than what we would expect in a normal year," said Dr Catchpole, the Chief Scientific Officer at infectious disease testing firm hVIVO. "We need more information on the specific strain that is circulating to start to understand if this is the usual circulating strain or if the virus causing high infection rates in China has some differences," he added. Also read: India: HMPV cases rise to seven in a day; health minister says ‘no reason to worry’ Catchpole further said that it is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are coming up purely due to coinciding with high flu and Covid levels. He further noted that while HMPV "does mutate and change over time with new strains emerging', it is 'not a virus considered to have pandemic potential". Meanwhile, multiple experts urged people not to panic as the majority of infections cause "mild, cold-like symptoms". However, Jaya Dantas, a professor of international health at Curtin University in Australia warned, "In young children, the elderly, and those who are immune compromised, hMPV can lead to severe cases and can move to the lower respiratory tract and may lead to pneumonia." Also read: Old posts claiming 'COVID-19 is not a health emergency' resurface amid rising HMPV cases "We need to use a cautious and measured approach, as we know so much more since the Covid pandemic," Jaya added. Cases surge in US According to new data, the HMPV virus is also widely spreading in the US. Following this, Western specialists have urged China to be more open about an outbreak of influenza. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that less than 300 positive test results were recorded in the last week of December. It said that the CDC is "monitoring" the instances in China, adding that the current cases are "not currently a cause for concern in the US.” China has said that respiratory ailments are "less severe" and "smaller in size" than they were in 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

UK experts call on China to provide key information on HMPV outbreak as cases double in Britain

North Korean leader Kim Jon Un released a statement on Tuesday (Jan 7) saying that the new hypersonic missile launched this week can deter all rivals in the Pacific region, according to state media reports.
"The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim, who oversaw the launch, said in comments carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Tuesday.
North Korea's latest missile launch has raised concerns among experts, who warn that the use of a "new compound of carbon fibre" in the missile's engine could significantly extend its range.&nbsp;
The launch, as per KCNA, also used a "new comprehensive and effective method" for its flight and guidance control system.
The North Korean leader also said that the missile launched on Monday achieved impressive milestones by flying 1,500 kilometres (930 miles), surpassing the 1,100-kilometre estimate provided by South Korea's military.&nbsp;
Additionally, the missile travelled at an astonishing 12 times the speed of sound before landing in the ocean.
"This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action," Kim said.
He said that the missile's performance could "not be ignored worldwide", saying it was able to "deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier".
"The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated," Kim said.
<h2>Blinken condemns North Korea&rsquo;s actions &nbsp;</h2>
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was visiting South Korea at the time, strongly criticised the missile test. Calling it "yet another violation of multiple Security Council resolutions," Blinken emphasised the Biden administration&rsquo;s willingness to engage with North Korea without preconditions, despite repeated provocations.
Blinken highlighted the importance of trilateral collaboration between the US, South Korea, and Japan, noting that joint efforts have strengthened real-time information sharing and enhanced collective defence. The missile launch, he said, serves as a stark reminder of the need for such cooperation.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: The North Korean leader said that the missile launched on Monday achieved impressive milestones by flying 1,500 kilometres (930 miles), surpassing the 1,100-kilometre estimate provided by South Korea's military. 

North Korean leader Kim Jon Un released a statement on Tuesday (Jan 7) saying that the new hypersonic missile launched this week can deter all rivals in the Pacific region, according to state media reports. "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim, who oversaw the launch, said in comments carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Tuesday. North Korea's latest missile launch has raised concerns among experts, who warn that the use of a "new compound of carbon fibre" in the missile's engine could significantly extend its range. The launch, as per KCNA, also used a "new comprehensive and effective method" for its flight and guidance control system. The North Korean leader also said that the missile launched on Monday achieved impressive milestones by flying 1,500 kilometres (930 miles), surpassing the 1,100-kilometre estimate provided by South Korea's military. Additionally, the missile travelled at an astonishing 12 times the speed of sound before landing in the ocean. "This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action," Kim said. He said that the missile's performance could "not be ignored worldwide", saying it was able to "deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier". "The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated," Kim said. Blinken condemns North Korea’s actions US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was visiting South Korea at the time, strongly criticised the missile test. Calling it "yet another violation of multiple Security Council resolutions," Blinken emphasised the Biden administration’s willingness to engage with North Korea without preconditions, despite repeated provocations. Blinken highlighted the importance of trilateral collaboration between the US, South Korea, and Japan, noting that joint efforts have strengthened real-time information sharing and enhanced collective defence. The missile launch, he said, serves as a stark reminder of the need for such cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warns new missile will 'reliably contain any rival'

Creating and sharing sexually explicit "deepfakes" will become a criminal offence in Britain, the government said on Tuesday, in a bid to tackle a surge in the proliferation of such images, mainly targeting women and girls.
Deepfakes are videos, pictures or audio clips made with artificial intelligence to look real, and such technology can be used to digitally alter pornographic images into the likeness of someone else.
Publishing intimate photos or videos without consent and with the intent to cause distress - so-called revenge porn - was criminalised in Britain in 2015, but that legislation does not cover the use of fake images.
Data from UK-based Revenge Porn Helpline showed image-based abuse using deepfakes has increased more than 400% since 2017.
Under the new offence to be introduced by the government, perpetrators could be charged and face prosecution for both creating and sharing these images.
"There is no excuse for creating a sexually explicit deepfake of someone without their consent," the justice ministry said in a statement.
The previous Conservative government, which lost power to the Labour Party in July, announced similar plans to make sexually explicit deepfakes a criminal offence. Under its proposal, offenders would face fines and even jail time.
The justice ministry said further details of the new offence would be set out in due course.
The government said it would also create new offences for the taking of intimate images without consent and the installation of equipment with intent to commit these offences. Those found guilty could face up to two years behind bars.
"This demeaning and disgusting form of chauvinism must not become normalised," said Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones.
Technology minister Margaret Jones said tech platforms hosting abusive images would face tougher scrutiny and significant penalties.
"Intimate-image abuse is a national emergency that is causing significant, long-lasting harm to women and girls who face a total loss of control over their digital footprint, at the hands of online misogyny," said campaigner Jess Davies.
The new offences will be included in the government's Crime and Policing Bill, which will be introduced to parliament. A date is yet to be set.
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 UK government said it would also create new offences for the taking of intimate images without consent and the installation of equipment with intent to commit these offences

Creating and sharing sexually explicit "deepfakes" will become a criminal offence in Britain, the government said on Tuesday, in a bid to tackle a surge in the proliferation of such images, mainly targeting women and girls. Deepfakes are videos, pictures or audio clips made with artificial intelligence to look real, and such technology can be used to digitally alter pornographic images into the likeness of someone else. Publishing intimate photos or videos without consent and with the intent to cause distress - so-called revenge porn - was criminalised in Britain in 2015, but that legislation does not cover the use of fake images. Data from UK-based Revenge Porn Helpline showed image-based abuse using deepfakes has increased more than 400% since 2017. Under the new offence to be introduced by the government, perpetrators could be charged and face prosecution for both creating and sharing these images. "There is no excuse for creating a sexually explicit deepfake of someone without their consent," the justice ministry said in a statement. The previous Conservative government, which lost power to the Labour Party in July, announced similar plans to make sexually explicit deepfakes a criminal offence. Under its proposal, offenders would face fines and even jail time. The justice ministry said further details of the new offence would be set out in due course. The government said it would also create new offences for the taking of intimate images without consent and the installation of equipment with intent to commit these offences. Those found guilty could face up to two years behind bars. "This demeaning and disgusting form of chauvinism must not become normalised," said Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones. Technology minister Margaret Jones said tech platforms hosting abusive images would face tougher scrutiny and significant penalties. "Intimate-image abuse is a national emergency that is causing significant, long-lasting harm to women and girls who face a total loss of control over their digital footprint, at the hands of online misogyny," said campaigner Jess Davies. The new offences will be included in the government's Crime and Policing Bill, which will be introduced to parliament. A date is yet to be set. 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.

Generating, sharing explicit 'deepfakes' to be a crime in UK now

A powerful earthquake jolted Tibet near the Nepalese border on Tuesday (Jan 7), bringing down several buildings and claiming the lives of 95 people, wounding 130 others, reported state media.
The earthquake hit the Dingri county with a magnitude of 6.8 near the border with Nepal at 9:05 am (0105 GMT), as per the China Earthquake Networks Centre (CENC).&nbsp;
However, the US Geological Survey reported the quake to be of 7.1 magnitude.
"A total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 pm (0700 GMT) Tuesday, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region at 9:05 am Tuesday," Xinhua news agency said.
According to Xinhua news agency, "Local authorities are reaching out to various townships in the county to assess the impact of the quake."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-earthquake-of-71-magnitude-hits-tibet-tremors-felt-in-several-parts-of-india-8597339" rel="dofollow">Nepal earthquake: Massive 7.1 quake jolts Lobuche, tremors felt in several parts of India</a>
The earthquake, as per the CENC, was the most powerful to have hit the region in the last five years.
Areas around Lobuche in Nepal in the high mountains near Everest and Kathmandu were also rattled by the tremors.
"It shook quite strongly here, everyone is awake, but we don't know about any damages yet," said government official Jagat Prasad Bhusal in Nepal's Namche region, which lies nearer to Everest.
"An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter Scale hit 93 km North East of Lobuche, Nepal at 06:35:16 IST today," said USGS Earthquakes.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5lxyc7g-o14hs7gf-fpmaogho">
Notable quake, preliminary info: M 7.1 - 93 km NE of Lobuche, Nepal <a href="https://t.co/QsViMSdtoE">https://t.co/QsViMSdtoE</a>
&mdash; USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/USGS_Quakes/status/1876439748274983346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), two more quakes hit the region later in the morning.
One earthquake of 4.7 magnitude was recorded at 7:02 am IST with its epicentre at latitude 28.60 degrees North and longitude 87.68 degrees East, at a depth of 10 kilometres.
Another earthquake measuring 4.9 magnitude occurred at 7:07 am IST, with its epicentre at latitude 28.68 degrees North and longitude 87.54 degrees East, at a depth of 30 kilometres.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The earthquake, as per the CENC, was the most powerful to have hit the region in the last five years. Areas around Lobuche in Nepal in the high mountains near Everest and Kathmandu were also rattled by the tremors.

A powerful earthquake jolted Tibet near the Nepalese border on Tuesday (Jan 7), bringing down several buildings and claiming the lives of 95 people, wounding 130 others, reported state media. The earthquake hit the Dingri county with a magnitude of 6.8 near the border with Nepal at 9:05 am (0105 GMT), as per the China Earthquake Networks Centre (CENC). However, the US Geological Survey reported the quake to be of 7.1 magnitude. "A total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 pm (0700 GMT) Tuesday, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region at 9:05 am Tuesday," Xinhua news agency said. According to Xinhua news agency, "Local authorities are reaching out to various townships in the county to assess the impact of the quake." Also read: Nepal earthquake: Massive 7.1 quake jolts Lobuche, tremors felt in several parts of India The earthquake, as per the CENC, was the most powerful to have hit the region in the last five years. Areas around Lobuche in Nepal in the high mountains near Everest and Kathmandu were also rattled by the tremors. "It shook quite strongly here, everyone is awake, but we don't know about any damages yet," said government official Jagat Prasad Bhusal in Nepal's Namche region, which lies nearer to Everest. "An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter Scale hit 93 km North East of Lobuche, Nepal at 06:35:16 IST today," said USGS Earthquakes. Notable quake, preliminary info: M 7.1 - 93 km NE of Lobuche, Nepal https://t.co/QsViMSdtoE — USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) January 7, 2025 According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), two more quakes hit the region later in the morning. One earthquake of 4.7 magnitude was recorded at 7:02 am IST with its epicentre at latitude 28.60 degrees North and longitude 87.68 degrees East, at a depth of 10 kilometres. Another earthquake measuring 4.9 magnitude occurred at 7:07 am IST, with its epicentre at latitude 28.68 degrees North and longitude 87.54 degrees East, at a depth of 30 kilometres. (With inputs from agencies)

Tibet earthquake: Death toll rises to 95 as several buildings collapse in region

The appointment of Sriram Krishnan as an AI advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump has sparked a concerning surge in anti-India sentiment on American social media.&nbsp;
Recently, a video on the internet is doing the rounds where a US man can be seen collecting signatures from Indians in the country to "stop the spread of the H1B virus."
X user Alex Rosen shared the video on his social media platform and captioned it as, &ldquo;Getting Indians to sign to stop the spread of the H-1B Virus.&rdquo;
In the video, he can be seen asking Indian shopkeepers to sign a petition that disturbingly states "stop the spread of the H1B virus", describing the visa programme as a contagion.
On being asked about the symptoms of the "virus", the man claims that they include &ldquo;diarrhoea&rdquo; and &ldquo;smell&rdquo; which he said &ldquo;originates from India.&rdquo;&nbsp;
He then can be seen telling Trump to "Man up" towards the end of the video.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5me8ptm-1slwzjvn-94xd18os">
Getting Indians to sign to stop the spread of the H-1B Virus <a href="https://t.co/VJH38laFhx">pic.twitter.com/VJH38laFhx</a>
&mdash; Alex Rosen (@iFightForKids) <a href="https://twitter.com/iFightForKids/status/1876032266352439532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/h1b-visas-us-far-right-goes-on-anti-india-drivel-over-trumps-pick-sriram-musk-wades-in-8566899" rel="dofollow">Also read: H1B visas: US far-right goes on anti-India drivel over Trump's pick Sriram; Musk wades in</a>
<h2>Mixed reactions on social media</h2>
The video has garnered over one million views since being posted on X. The reactions on the platform were sharply divided, with some people expressing support and others vehemently condemning the man as a racist.
One user wrote, "You're a horrible little man. Indians are hard-working people, and America wouldn't exist without them. My wife is Indian, and she is the smartest, most beautiful, and hard-working person I know. Yes, that includes white people.&rdquo; Another added, &ldquo;You&rsquo;ve done heroic things in the past, but this is BY FAR the most heroic. I applaud you, good sir.&rdquo;
While a third commented, &ldquo;You have problems, man. This debate is not about hate against South Asians or East Asians, it is about love for Americans.&rdquo; A fourth posted, &ldquo;Epic troll.&rdquo;
<h2>'I've Always Liked H1-B', says Trump</h2>
Trump, in an interview with the New York Post in December, praised the use of H-1B visas for bringing skilled foreign workers to the US, stating, &ldquo;I have always liked the visas, I have always been in favour of the visas. That&rsquo;s why we have them.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I&rsquo;ve been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It&rsquo;s a great programme,&rdquo; Trump said, echoing the views of Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, Sriram Krishnan, and David Sacks.
The issue of H-1B visas has caused division among Trump&rsquo;s supporters, especially after his appointment of Krishnan.
Critics argue the programme impacts American jobs, while others, including Elon Musk, have supported skilled immigration.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | India News | Trending: Trump, in an interview with the New York Post in December, praised the use of H-1B visas for bringing skilled foreign workers to the US, stating, “I have always liked the visas.” 

The appointment of Sriram Krishnan as an AI advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump has sparked a concerning surge in anti-India sentiment on American social media. Recently, a video on the internet is doing the rounds where a US man can be seen collecting signatures from Indians in the country to "stop the spread of the H1B virus." X user Alex Rosen shared the video on his social media platform and captioned it as, “Getting Indians to sign to stop the spread of the H-1B Virus.” In the video, he can be seen asking Indian shopkeepers to sign a petition that disturbingly states "stop the spread of the H1B virus", describing the visa programme as a contagion. On being asked about the symptoms of the "virus", the man claims that they include “diarrhoea” and “smell” which he said “originates from India.” He then can be seen telling Trump to "Man up" towards the end of the video. Getting Indians to sign to stop the spread of the H-1B Virus pic.twitter.com/VJH38laFhx — Alex Rosen (@iFightForKids) January 5, 2025 Also read: H1B visas: US far-right goes on anti-India drivel over Trump's pick Sriram; Musk wades in Mixed reactions on social media The video has garnered over one million views since being posted on X. The reactions on the platform were sharply divided, with some people expressing support and others vehemently condemning the man as a racist. One user wrote, "You're a horrible little man. Indians are hard-working people, and America wouldn't exist without them. My wife is Indian, and she is the smartest, most beautiful, and hard-working person I know. Yes, that includes white people.” Another added, “You’ve done heroic things in the past, but this is BY FAR the most heroic. I applaud you, good sir.” While a third commented, “You have problems, man. This debate is not about hate against South Asians or East Asians, it is about love for Americans.” A fourth posted, “Epic troll.” 'I've Always Liked H1-B', says Trump Trump, in an interview with the New York Post in December, praised the use of H-1B visas for bringing skilled foreign workers to the US, stating, “I have always liked the visas, I have always been in favour of the visas. That’s why we have them.” “I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I’ve been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It’s a great programme,” Trump said, echoing the views of Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, Sriram Krishnan, and David Sacks. The issue of H-1B visas has caused division among Trump’s supporters, especially after his appointment of Krishnan. Critics argue the programme impacts American jobs, while others, including Elon Musk, have supported skilled immigration. (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO: US man asks Indians to sign petition to 'stop spread of H1B virus'

In a move to reduce the country's dependence on the United States for military equipment, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Israel+" rel="dofollow">Israel</a>i Defence Ministry on Tuesday (Jan 7) signed two major deals with Elbit Systems, an Israel-based international military technology company, for the arms contractor to supply the defence forces with thousands of heavy bombs and other materials.&nbsp;
Elbit Systems will also establish a new plant to manufacture raw materials for Israel, according to The Times of Israel.&nbsp;
The two deals are estimated at USD 275 million (NIS 1 billion).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secy-warned-netanyahu-biden-would-not-visit-israel-if-they-wont-allow-aid-into-gaza-8591823" rel="dofollow">US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if he won't allow aid into Gaza</a>
The Israeli military said the agreements are "crucial for enhancing the IDF's operational endurance and force build-up capabilities."
According to the first agreement, Elbit, an Israeli defence contractor firm, will supply thousands of heavy air munitions used by the Israeli Air Force.
This will reduce Israel's dependence on the United States, which held up a shipment of heavy bombs in late spring.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-hostage-deal-at-impasse-unlikely-to-be-completed-before-end-of-bidens-term-report-8583822" rel="dofollow">Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report</a>
Meanwhile, under the second agreement, Elbit will establish a "national raw materials plant to produce raw materials that were sourced mainly from abroad before the war.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The new facility will feature advanced production lines for energetic materials that Israel&rsquo;s defence industry uses,&rdquo; the ministry said.&nbsp;
The Israeli ministry added that the project is expected to boost domestic manufacturing independence and reduce reliance on imported raw materials.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-initiate-major-8-billion-defence-deal-with-israel-report-8592558" rel="dofollow">US to initiate major $8 billion defence deal with Israel: Report</a>
<h2>US to initiate arms deal with Israel</h2>
Last week, US President Joe Biden's administration informed Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, according to two US officials, as reported by Reuters.
The deal, which includes munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells, requires approval from the House of Representatives and Senate committees. However, the State Department has not issued a comment on the proposed arms deal.
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: The Elbit Systems will also establish a new plant to manufacture raw materials for Israel, according to The Times of Israel. The two deals are estimated at USD 275 million.

In a move to reduce the country's dependence on the United States for military equipment, the Israeli Defence Ministry on Tuesday (Jan 7) signed two major deals with Elbit Systems, an Israel-based international military technology company, for the arms contractor to supply the defence forces with thousands of heavy bombs and other materials. Elbit Systems will also establish a new plant to manufacture raw materials for Israel, according to The Times of Israel. The two deals are estimated at USD 275 million (NIS 1 billion). Also read: US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if he won't allow aid into Gaza The Israeli military said the agreements are "crucial for enhancing the IDF's operational endurance and force build-up capabilities." According to the first agreement, Elbit, an Israeli defence contractor firm, will supply thousands of heavy air munitions used by the Israeli Air Force. This will reduce Israel's dependence on the United States, which held up a shipment of heavy bombs in late spring. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report Meanwhile, under the second agreement, Elbit will establish a "national raw materials plant to produce raw materials that were sourced mainly from abroad before the war.” “The new facility will feature advanced production lines for energetic materials that Israel’s defence industry uses,” the ministry said. The Israeli ministry added that the project is expected to boost domestic manufacturing independence and reduce reliance on imported raw materials. Also read: US to initiate major $8 billion defence deal with Israel: Report US to initiate arms deal with Israel Last week, US President Joe Biden's administration informed Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, according to two US officials, as reported by Reuters. The deal, which includes munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells, requires approval from the House of Representatives and Senate committees. However, the State Department has not issued a comment on the proposed arms deal. 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)

Israel to produce arms locally, aims to reduce dependence on US

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