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Israel was accused of "flagrant violation" of the 2006 Security Council Resolution 1701 by the United Nations peacekeeping force on Saturday (Jan 4) amid rising tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border.
Indian Union Health Ministry says &ldquo;no unusual surge&rdquo; in respiratory illnesses in China, attributing it to typical winter pathogens. The ministry also requested WHO to share timely updates on the situation.
Meanwhile, Israel has confirmed the continuation of indirect ceasefire negotiations and hostage release talks with Hamas in Qatar amid airstrikes in Gaza.
Finally, former United States President Jimmy Carter&rsquo;s six-day state funeral began on Saturday (Jan 4) in his home state.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-accuses-israel-of-flagrant-violation-of-ceasefire-as-hezbollah-warns-patience-running-out-8592119" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">UN accuses Israel of 'flagrant violation' of ceasefire, as Hezbollah warns patience running out</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/05/bDno8y4Tc3PN7wxZwzob.png" alt=" Armoured vehicles of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) patrol in the town of Khiam in southern Lebanon on December 23, 2024, under a delicate ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah. Photograph: (AFP) ">
The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon on Saturday (Jan 4) accused Israel of "flagrant violation" of the 2006 Security Council Resolution 1701, which forms the basis of the country's November ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-union-health-ministry-holds-meeting-amid-rising-cases-respiratory-illnesses-in-china-8592258" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'No unusual surge': Indian Health Ministry on rise in HMPV, respiratory illnesses in China</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/05/iR42vIZTJMzcPX12Nssb.jpg" alt=" File photo: People walking on a street in Hong Kong while wearing masks. Photograph: (AFP) ">
The Union Health Ministry of India has recently convened a Joint Monitoring Group meeting on Saturday (Jan 4) amid the rising cases of respiratory illnesses in China. The ministry is keeping a close watch on the situation and has requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to share timely updates.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-resumes-indirect-ceasefire-talks-with-hamas-in-qatar-amid-escalating-gaza-humanitarian-crisis-8592151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel says indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas resume in Qatar</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/05/xGTBjL6T5qgVQ5vJku4L.png" alt=" 'Efforts are under way to free the hostages, notably the Israeli delegation which left yesterday (Friday) for negotiations in Qatar,' said Defence Minister Israel Katz's office. ">
Israel on Saturday (Jan 4) confirmed that indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release with Hamas have resumed in Qatar amid continued airstrikes in Gaza that have claimed over 30 lives in the latest bombardments.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-carters-state-funeral-underway-us-bids-farewell-to-its-longest-living-former-president-8592228" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jimmy Carter state funeral: US bids farewell to its longest-living former president</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/05/rWfEsoJWPdg1zsQYYwOg.png" alt=" The Guard of Honor stands at the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter as he lies in repose at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 4, 2025. Photograph: (WION Web Team) ">
The state funeral of former United States president Jimmy Carter began on Saturday (Jan 4) in Georgia. The six-day day farewell for the 39th President of the United States began with ceremonies in his home state.
Watch | India's New Delhi enveloped in thick fog
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
India's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewDelhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewDelhi</a> enveloped in thick fog. 45 flights cancelled and 19 diverted at Indira Gandhi Internatinal Airport.<a href="https://twitter.com/SehgalRahesha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SehgalRahesha</a> tells you more.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiFog?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiFog</a> <a href="https://t.co/T6UFwy0de7">pic.twitter.com/T6UFwy0de7</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1875748386596647146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

&nbsp;

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

Israel was accused of "flagrant violation" of the 2006 Security Council Resolution 1701 by the United Nations peacekeeping force on Saturday (Jan 4) amid rising tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border. Indian Union Health Ministry says “no unusual surge” in respiratory illnesses in China, attributing it to typical winter pathogens. The ministry also requested WHO to share timely updates on the situation. Meanwhile, Israel has confirmed the continuation of indirect ceasefire negotiations and hostage release talks with Hamas in Qatar amid airstrikes in Gaza. Finally, former United States President Jimmy Carter’s six-day state funeral began on Saturday (Jan 4) in his home state. Click on the headlines for more UN accuses Israel of 'flagrant violation' of ceasefire, as Hezbollah warns patience running out The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon on Saturday (Jan 4) accused Israel of "flagrant violation" of the 2006 Security Council Resolution 1701, which forms the basis of the country's November ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. 'No unusual surge': Indian Health Ministry on rise in HMPV, respiratory illnesses in China The Union Health Ministry of India has recently convened a Joint Monitoring Group meeting on Saturday (Jan 4) amid the rising cases of respiratory illnesses in China. The ministry is keeping a close watch on the situation and has requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to share timely updates. Israel says indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas resume in Qatar Israel on Saturday (Jan 4) confirmed that indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release with Hamas have resumed in Qatar amid continued airstrikes in Gaza that have claimed over 30 lives in the latest bombardments. Jimmy Carter state funeral: US bids farewell to its longest-living former president The state funeral of former United States president Jimmy Carter began on Saturday (Jan 4) in Georgia. The six-day day farewell for the 39th President of the United States began with ceremonies in his home state. Watch | India's New Delhi enveloped in thick fog India's #NewDelhi enveloped in thick fog. 45 flights cancelled and 19 diverted at Indira Gandhi Internatinal Airport.@SehgalRahesha tells you more.#DelhiFog pic.twitter.com/T6UFwy0de7 — WION (@WIONews) January 5, 2025

Morning news brief: UN accuses Israel of ceasefire violation; India on Chinese respiratory illnesses, and more

Thousands of South Korean protesters braved a snowstorm Sunday in support of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol who was still resisting arrest over a failed martial law bid less than 48 hours before the warrant expires.
Yoon plunged the country into political chaos last month with the bungled martial law declaration and has since holed up in the presidential residence, surrounded by hundreds of loyal security officers resisting arrest efforts.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-seoul-as-south-koreas-president-defies-arrest-in-martial-law-row-8591270">Thousands protest in Seoul as South Korea&rsquo;s suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol defies arrest in martial law row</a>
On Saturday, thousands descended on his residence and major roads in Seoul, a day after a failed arrest attempt -- with one camp demanding Yoon's arrest, while the other called for his impeachment to be declared invalid.&nbsp;
Pro-Yoon supporters amassed again in front of his home Sunday despite bitter snow conditions hammering the capital overnight that left it under a white blanket, while an anti-Yoon rally was slated for 2 pm local time (0500 GMT).
"Snow is nothing for me. They can bring all the snow and we'll still be here," said anti-Yoon protester Lee Jin-ah, 28, who had previously worked at a coffee shop.
"I quit my job to come to protect our country and democracy," she said, adding that she had camped outside the residence overnight. &nbsp;
Park Young-chul, in his 70s, said the snowstorm wouldn't deter him from showing up to back Yoon before the warrant expires at midnight on Monday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-investigators-vow-to-execute-arrest-warrant-against-yoon-suk-yeol-before-jan-6-8582785" aria-label="South Korean investigators vow to execute arrest warrant against Yoon before Jan 6">South Korean investigators vow to execute arrest warrant against Yoon before Jan 6</a>
"I went through war and minus 20 degrees in the snow to fight the commies. This snow is nothing. Our war is happening again," he told AFP.
The rallies in the cold come as Yoon this week said he was watching protests in support of his rule on a YouTube livestream, pledging to "fight" those trying to question his short-lived power grab.
Yoon faces criminal charges of insurrection, one of a few crimes not subject to presidential immunity, meaning he could be sentenced to prison or, at worst, the death penalty.
If the warrant is executed, Yoon would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-yoon-suk-yeol-resists-arrest-for-third-day-vows-to-fight-to-the-end-8586182" aria-label="Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end'">Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end'</a>
<h2>Blinken wades in</h2>
The country's opposition Democratic Party called for the dissolution of the security service protecting Yoon after investigators met a wall of hundreds of security forces preventing access to him.
"The Presidential Security Service has violated the constitution, effectively positioning itself as a force of insurrection," floor leader Park Chan-dae told parliament Saturday.
"There is no longer any justification for its existence."
The service's top officials refused a police request Saturday for questioning, citing the "serious nature" of protecting Yoon.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-news-arrest-warrant-issued-for-suspended-south-korean-president-yoon-suk-yeol-8579416" aria-label="Arrest warrant issued for suspended South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol">Arrest warrant issued for suspended South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol</a>
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), probing the martial law declaration, and the opposition urged acting president Choi Sang-mok -- in office for just a week and a party colleague of Yoon -- to order the presidential security service to cooperate.
Late Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Seoul, likely to wade into the crisis of a key security ally in talks Monday with his counterpart Cho Tae-yul.
He is expected to delicately encourage continuity with the policies, but not tactics, of the impeached president.&nbsp;
Yoon's lawyers decried Friday's arrest attempt as "unlawful and invalid", and vowed to take legal action.
In scenes of high drama, Yoon's guards and military troops shielded him from investigators who eventually called off Friday's arrest attempt citing safety concerns.
The Constitutional Court set January 14 for the start of Yoon's impeachment trial, which even if he does not attend, will continue in his absence.&nbsp;
South Korea's Constitutional Court has up to 180 days to determine whether to dismiss Yoon as president or restore his powers.
Until then, while suspended, Yoon holds the title of president.
Former presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye never appeared for their impeachment trials.
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.

Yoon faces charges of insurrection, a crime not covered by presidential immunity, making him potentially the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested.

Thousands of South Korean protesters braved a snowstorm Sunday in support of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol who was still resisting arrest over a failed martial law bid less than 48 hours before the warrant expires. Yoon plunged the country into political chaos last month with the bungled martial law declaration and has since holed up in the presidential residence, surrounded by hundreds of loyal security officers resisting arrest efforts. Also read | Thousands protest in Seoul as South Korea’s suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol defies arrest in martial law row On Saturday, thousands descended on his residence and major roads in Seoul, a day after a failed arrest attempt -- with one camp demanding Yoon's arrest, while the other called for his impeachment to be declared invalid. Pro-Yoon supporters amassed again in front of his home Sunday despite bitter snow conditions hammering the capital overnight that left it under a white blanket, while an anti-Yoon rally was slated for 2 pm local time (0500 GMT). "Snow is nothing for me. They can bring all the snow and we'll still be here," said anti-Yoon protester Lee Jin-ah, 28, who had previously worked at a coffee shop. "I quit my job to come to protect our country and democracy," she said, adding that she had camped outside the residence overnight. Park Young-chul, in his 70s, said the snowstorm wouldn't deter him from showing up to back Yoon before the warrant expires at midnight on Monday. Also read | South Korean investigators vow to execute arrest warrant against Yoon before Jan 6 "I went through war and minus 20 degrees in the snow to fight the commies. This snow is nothing. Our war is happening again," he told AFP. The rallies in the cold come as Yoon this week said he was watching protests in support of his rule on a YouTube livestream, pledging to "fight" those trying to question his short-lived power grab. Yoon faces criminal charges of insurrection, one of a few crimes not subject to presidential immunity, meaning he could be sentenced to prison or, at worst, the death penalty. If the warrant is executed, Yoon would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested. Also read | Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end' Blinken wades in The country's opposition Democratic Party called for the dissolution of the security service protecting Yoon after investigators met a wall of hundreds of security forces preventing access to him. "The Presidential Security Service has violated the constitution, effectively positioning itself as a force of insurrection," floor leader Park Chan-dae told parliament Saturday. "There is no longer any justification for its existence." The service's top officials refused a police request Saturday for questioning, citing the "serious nature" of protecting Yoon. Also read | Arrest warrant issued for suspended South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), probing the martial law declaration, and the opposition urged acting president Choi Sang-mok -- in office for just a week and a party colleague of Yoon -- to order the presidential security service to cooperate. Late Sunday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Seoul, likely to wade into the crisis of a key security ally in talks Monday with his counterpart Cho Tae-yul. He is expected to delicately encourage continuity with the policies, but not tactics, of the impeached president. Yoon's lawyers decried Friday's arrest attempt as "unlawful and invalid", and vowed to take legal action. In scenes of high drama, Yoon's guards and military troops shielded him from investigators who eventually called off Friday's arrest attempt citing safety concerns. The Constitutional Court set January 14 for the start of Yoon's impeachment trial, which even if he does not attend, will continue in his absence. South Korea's Constitutional Court has up to 180 days to determine whether to dismiss Yoon as president or restore his powers. Until then, while suspended, Yoon holds the title of president. Former presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye never appeared for their impeachment trials. 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.

Thousands protest outside Yoon's residence as arrest deadline nears

Delhi fog alert: Flight, train operations hit in national capital due to poor visibility; IMD issues orange alert

Fog alert in Delhi: Hundreds if flights delayed

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As Israel begins its monumental rebuilding efforts following the recent conflict with Hamas, the construction sector faces a significant labor shortage. Historically dependent on Palestinian and other migrant workers, Israel is now turning to an increasing number of workers from India to fill the gap.

Indian workers fill critical roles in Israel

Israel on Saturday (Jan 4) confirmed that indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release with Hamas have resumed in Qatar amid continued airstrikes in Gaza that have claimed over 30 lives in the latest bombardments.&nbsp;
Among those killed was the al-Ghoula family in Gaza City, where an airstrike destroyed their home, killing 11 people, including seven children. Rescuers combed through the rubble in Shujaiya, while images depicted bodies, including children, shrouded in white sheets.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-accuses-israel-of-flagrant-violation-of-ceasefire-as-hezbollah-warns-patience-running-out-8592119">UN accuses Israel of 'flagrant violation' of ceasefire, as Hezbollah warns patience running out</a>
<h2>Israel's statement on the ceasefire</h2>
Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that an Israeli delegation had travelled to Qatar to advance talks, following a video release by Hamas of Israeli soldier Liri Albag, urging her government to secure her release.&nbsp;
"Efforts are underway to free the hostages, notably the Israeli delegation which left yesterday (Friday) for negotiations in Qatar," said his office.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had given "detailed instructions for the continued negotiations," added the statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/willing-to-surrender-in-gaza-trumps-alleged-shooter-routh-wishes-to-become-hamas-hostage-in-shocking-letter-8591955">'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter</a>
On Friday, Hamas also confirmed that the negotiations were poised to resume and said that it aims to "focus on ensuring the agreement leads to a complete cessation of hostilities (and) the withdrawal of occupation forces". Mediators from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt have been engaged in mediation efforts for months.&nbsp;
<h2>Liri Albag and other hostages</h2>
This comes as a video of Israeli soldier Liri Albag was released by Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades. The undated three-and-a-half-minute video purportedly shows the 19-year-old female conscript Albag calling in Hebrew for the Israeli government to secure her release.
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">US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if he won't allow aid into Gaza</a>
A total of 96 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, including 34 whom the Israeli military says are dead.
The war has so far claimed the lives of over 45,700 people in Gaza, as per health ministry figures, and 1,208 in Israel, highlighting the devastating human toll of the ongoing conflict.
(With inputs from agencies)

Learn about the indirect negotiations for hostage release, as Israeli delegations travel to Qatar following a video plea from captured soldier Liri Albag.

Israel on Saturday (Jan 4) confirmed that indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release with Hamas have resumed in Qatar amid continued airstrikes in Gaza that have claimed over 30 lives in the latest bombardments. Among those killed was the al-Ghoula family in Gaza City, where an airstrike destroyed their home, killing 11 people, including seven children. Rescuers combed through the rubble in Shujaiya, while images depicted bodies, including children, shrouded in white sheets. Also read | UN accuses Israel of 'flagrant violation' of ceasefire, as Hezbollah warns patience running out Israel's statement on the ceasefire Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that an Israeli delegation had travelled to Qatar to advance talks, following a video release by Hamas of Israeli soldier Liri Albag, urging her government to secure her release. "Efforts are underway to free the hostages, notably the Israeli delegation which left yesterday (Friday) for negotiations in Qatar," said his office. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had given "detailed instructions for the continued negotiations," added the statement. Also read | 'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter On Friday, Hamas also confirmed that the negotiations were poised to resume and said that it aims to "focus on ensuring the agreement leads to a complete cessation of hostilities (and) the withdrawal of occupation forces". Mediators from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt have been engaged in mediation efforts for months. Liri Albag and other hostages This comes as a video of Israeli soldier Liri Albag was released by Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades. The undated three-and-a-half-minute video purportedly shows the 19-year-old female conscript Albag calling in Hebrew for the Israeli government to secure her release. Also read | US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if he won't allow aid into Gaza A total of 96 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, including 34 whom the Israeli military says are dead. The war has so far claimed the lives of over 45,700 people in Gaza, as per health ministry figures, and 1,208 in Israel, highlighting the devastating human toll of the ongoing conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel says indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas resume in Qatar

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Israeli military strikes in the Gaza Strip have killed at least 70 people over the last day, Palestinian medics said on Saturday, as mediators launched a new ceasefire push to end the 15-month-old war.
At least 17 of those who died were killed in airstrikes on two houses in Gaza City, the first of which destroyed the home of the Al-Ghoula family in the early hours, medics and residents said.

Israel Gaza: Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens In Gaza Strip As New Ceasefire Talks Begin

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon on Saturday (Jan 4) accused Israel of "flagrant violation" of the 2006 Security Council Resolution 1701, which forms the basis of the country's November ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah.
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon's (UNIFIL) accusations come amid escalating tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border, as both sides exchange allegations of ceasefire breaches and as the militant group's leader Naim Qassem warned that their patience with Israeli violations could run out before the ceasefire's 60-day period. The fragile ceasefire took effect on November 27 of last year.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-to-commission-vagshree-3-platforms-2-warships-one-submarine-8591986">Explainer: Indian Navy to commission 3 platforms-2 warships, one submarine on January 15</a>
<h2>UNIFIL's accusation against Israel</h2>
UNIFIL in a statement alleged that Israeli military bulldozers destroyed a blue barrel marking the withdrawal line between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as an observation tower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
"This morning, peacekeepers observed an (Israeli military) bulldozer destroying a blue barrel marking the line of withdrawal between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as an observation tower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces immediately beside a UNIFIL position there."
This "deliberate and direct destruction of both clearly identifiable UNIFIL property and infrastructure belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces is a flagrant violation of Resolution 1701 and international law," it alleged.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/willing-to-surrender-in-gaza-trumps-alleged-shooter-routh-wishes-to-become-hamas-hostage-in-shocking-letter-8591955">'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter</a>
The peacekeeping force called for restraint, urging "all actors to avoid any actions, including the destruction of civilian property and infrastructure, that could jeopardise the cessation of hostilities".&nbsp;
<h2>Hezbollah's warning</h2>
Meanwhile, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem warned that the group's patience with Israeli violations might not last the full 60-day implementation period stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. &nbsp;
"We have said that we are giving an opportunity to prevent Israeli violations and to implement the agreement, and we will exercise patience," Qassem said. "This does not mean that we will wait for 60 days." He emphasised that Hezbollah's leadership retains the authority to decide when to act.
"The leadership of the resistance determines when to exercise patience, when to take initiative, and when to respond," he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-releases-footage-claiming-to-show-troops-inside-area-used-as-hideout-by-hamas-8591638">IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas</a>
<h2>What are the terms of the ceasefire?</h2>
The ceasefire, effective from November 27, involves phased steps aimed at de-escalation. Under it, the Lebanese army and UNIFIL are to jointly patrol southern Lebanon, while the Israeli army withdraws from the area over 60 days.
Hezbollah is required to pull its forces north of the Litani River, 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the border, and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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.

UNIFIL reports Israeli bulldozers destroyed infrastructure marking the withdrawal line, calling it a flagrant violation of international law and urging restraint from all parties.

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon on Saturday (Jan 4) accused Israel of "flagrant violation" of the 2006 Security Council Resolution 1701, which forms the basis of the country's November ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon's (UNIFIL) accusations come amid escalating tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border, as both sides exchange allegations of ceasefire breaches and as the militant group's leader Naim Qassem warned that their patience with Israeli violations could run out before the ceasefire's 60-day period. The fragile ceasefire took effect on November 27 of last year. Also read | Explainer: Indian Navy to commission 3 platforms-2 warships, one submarine on January 15 UNIFIL's accusation against Israel UNIFIL in a statement alleged that Israeli military bulldozers destroyed a blue barrel marking the withdrawal line between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as an observation tower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). "This morning, peacekeepers observed an (Israeli military) bulldozer destroying a blue barrel marking the line of withdrawal between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as an observation tower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces immediately beside a UNIFIL position there." This "deliberate and direct destruction of both clearly identifiable UNIFIL property and infrastructure belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces is a flagrant violation of Resolution 1701 and international law," it alleged. Also read | 'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter The peacekeeping force called for restraint, urging "all actors to avoid any actions, including the destruction of civilian property and infrastructure, that could jeopardise the cessation of hostilities". Hezbollah's warning Meanwhile, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem warned that the group's patience with Israeli violations might not last the full 60-day implementation period stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. "We have said that we are giving an opportunity to prevent Israeli violations and to implement the agreement, and we will exercise patience," Qassem said. "This does not mean that we will wait for 60 days." He emphasised that Hezbollah's leadership retains the authority to decide when to act. "The leadership of the resistance determines when to exercise patience, when to take initiative, and when to respond," he said. Also read | IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas What are the terms of the ceasefire? The ceasefire, effective from November 27, involves phased steps aimed at de-escalation. Under it, the Lebanese army and UNIFIL are to jointly patrol southern Lebanon, while the Israeli army withdraws from the area over 60 days. Hezbollah is required to pull its forces north of the Litani River, 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the border, and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in southern Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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.

UN accuses Israel of 'flagrant violation' of ceasefire as Hezbollah warns patience running out

An award-winning political cartoonist for The Washington Post has announced her resignation after a cartoon depicting the newspaper's billionaire owner grovelling before&nbsp;Donald Trump was rejected.
Ann Telnaes posted on Substack late Friday that this was the first time she "had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at."
The cartoon -- which she included in her post -- depicts Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, as well as Facebook and Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg and other media and tech moguls, kneeling and holding up bags of money before a massive Trump.
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/willing-to-surrender-in-gaza-trumps-alleged-shooter-routh-wishes-to-become-hamas-hostage-in-shocking-letter-8591955" aria-label="'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter">'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter</a>
Also shown is a prostrated Mickey Mouse, the symbol of the Disney Company, which owns ABC News. The television network recently reached a $15 million settlement with Trump after he sued for defamation over reporting on his sexual abuse trial in New York.
Telnaes wrote that while previous sketches of hers had been rejected, this was the first time that had happened because of her "point of view."
"That's a game changer... and dangerous for a free press," she said.
The Washington Post, whose slogan is "Democracy dies in darkness," did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
US media quoted the opinions editor, David Shipley, saying that Telnaes's work had been rejected only because of "repetition."
"We had just published a column on the same topic as the cartoon and had already scheduled another column -- this one a satire -- for publication," he said.
The US media aggressively covered Trump's chaotic first term, which included two impeachments and ended with his refusal to recognize defeat in the 2020 election -- culminating with a mob of his supporters storming Congress.
As Trump prepares for his January 20 inauguration, after having defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in November, there are signs that top CEOs, including in the media, are eager to build good relations.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-releases-footage-claiming-to-show-troops-inside-area-used-as-hideout-by-hamas-8591638" aria-label="IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas">IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas</a>
A stream of senior moguls, from Apple CEO Tim Cook to Bezos Zuckerberg, have travelled to meet Trump at his Florida estate.
Elon Musk, owner of influential social media platform X and the world's richest person, is one of the president-elect's closest advisors.
Amazon and Meta have both announced $1 million donations to Trump's inauguration fund, as reportedly has Apple's Cook in a personal capacity.
Bezos caused a stir just ahead of the presidential election when he broke with years of tradition and ruled against the Post endorsing a candidate.
Telnaes, who has won the Pulitzer Prize and other awards for her work, has worked for the Post since 2008.
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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&nbsp;to better reflect the content of the story&nbsp;or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.
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Ann Telnaes posted on Substack late Friday that this was the first time she "had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at."

An award-winning political cartoonist for The Washington Post has announced her resignation after a cartoon depicting the newspaper's billionaire owner grovelling before Donald Trump was rejected. Ann Telnaes posted on Substack late Friday that this was the first time she "had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at." The cartoon -- which she included in her post -- depicts Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, as well as Facebook and Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg and other media and tech moguls, kneeling and holding up bags of money before a massive Trump. Also read | 'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter Also shown is a prostrated Mickey Mouse, the symbol of the Disney Company, which owns ABC News. The television network recently reached a $15 million settlement with Trump after he sued for defamation over reporting on his sexual abuse trial in New York. Telnaes wrote that while previous sketches of hers had been rejected, this was the first time that had happened because of her "point of view." "That's a game changer... and dangerous for a free press," she said. The Washington Post, whose slogan is "Democracy dies in darkness," did not immediately respond to a request for comment. US media quoted the opinions editor, David Shipley, saying that Telnaes's work had been rejected only because of "repetition." "We had just published a column on the same topic as the cartoon and had already scheduled another column -- this one a satire -- for publication," he said. The US media aggressively covered Trump's chaotic first term, which included two impeachments and ended with his refusal to recognize defeat in the 2020 election -- culminating with a mob of his supporters storming Congress. As Trump prepares for his January 20 inauguration, after having defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in November, there are signs that top CEOs, including in the media, are eager to build good relations. Also read | IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas A stream of senior moguls, from Apple CEO Tim Cook to Bezos Zuckerberg, have travelled to meet Trump at his Florida estate. Elon Musk, owner of influential social media platform X and the world's richest person, is one of the president-elect's closest advisors. Amazon and Meta have both announced $1 million donations to Trump's inauguration fund, as reportedly has Apple's Cook in a personal capacity. Bezos caused a stir just ahead of the presidential election when he broke with years of tradition and ruled against the Post endorsing a candidate. Telnaes, who has won the Pulitzer Prize and other awards for her work, has worked for the Post since 2008. 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.

Cartoonist quits Washington Post after it rejected sketch mocking Jeff Bezos and Trump

Syria said on Saturday the country's main airport in Damascus would resume international flights starting next week after such commercial trips were halted following last month's ousting of President Bashar al-Assad.
"We announce we will start receiving international flights to and from Damascus International Airport from" Tuesday, state news agency SANA said, quoting Ashhad al-Salibi, who heads the General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-forge-a-new-relationship-with-syria-german-and-french-foreign-ministers-8588919" rel="dofollow">Also read: Want to forge a new relationship with Damascus: German, French foreign ministers meet Syria's de facto leader</a>
"We reassure Arab and international airlines that we have begun the phase of rehabilitating the Aleppo and Damascus airports with our partners' help, so that they can welcome flights from all over the world," he said.
International aid planes and foreign diplomatic delegations have already been landing in Syria. Domestic flights have also resumed.
Syrian Airlines will resume flights from Damascus to Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, starting on Tuesday, an employee told AFP requesting anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media.
On Thursday, Qatar Airways announced it would resume flights to the Syrian capital after nearly 13 years, starting with three weekly flights from Tuesday.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-many-ways-israel-declassifies-details-of-strike-on-iran-backed-syrian-missile-facility-8587848" rel="dofollow">Also read: 'Operation Many Ways': Israel declassifies details of strike on Iran-backed Syrian missile facility</a>
A Qatari official told AFP last month that Doha had offered the new Syrian authorities help in resuming operations at Damascus airport.
On December 18, the first flight since Islamist-led rebels ousted Assad on December 8 took off from Damascus airport to Aleppo in the country's north, AFP journalists saw.
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: "We announce we will start receiving international flights to and from Damascus International Airport from" Tuesday, state news agency SANA said, quoting Ashhad al-Salibi. 

Syria said on Saturday the country's main airport in Damascus would resume international flights starting next week after such commercial trips were halted following last month's ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. "We announce we will start receiving international flights to and from Damascus International Airport from" Tuesday, state news agency SANA said, quoting Ashhad al-Salibi, who heads the General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport. Also read: Want to forge a new relationship with Damascus: German, French foreign ministers meet Syria's de facto leader "We reassure Arab and international airlines that we have begun the phase of rehabilitating the Aleppo and Damascus airports with our partners' help, so that they can welcome flights from all over the world," he said. International aid planes and foreign diplomatic delegations have already been landing in Syria. Domestic flights have also resumed. Syrian Airlines will resume flights from Damascus to Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, starting on Tuesday, an employee told AFP requesting anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. On Thursday, Qatar Airways announced it would resume flights to the Syrian capital after nearly 13 years, starting with three weekly flights from Tuesday. Also read: 'Operation Many Ways': Israel declassifies details of strike on Iran-backed Syrian missile facility A Qatari official told AFP last month that Doha had offered the new Syrian authorities help in resuming operations at Damascus airport. On December 18, the first flight since Islamist-led rebels ousted Assad on December 8 took off from Damascus airport to Aleppo in the country's north, AFP journalists saw. 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.

Syria to resume international flights to and from Damascus

Ryan Routh, who made an assasination bid on US President-elect Donald Trump offered to join the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a captive it was revealed in a letter from a jailhouse in Miami, where he is currently imprisoned and pending trial, according to the New York Post&nbsp;
The 58-year-old Routh is incarcerated in a federal prison in Miami pending trial for allegedly attempting to kill Trump.&nbsp;
Routh in a bizarre letter confirmed by the New York Post, expressed concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.&nbsp;
<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">Also read: US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza</a>
"Will you go with me to Gaza and surrender to Hamas in exchange for a hostage life, please? Will you help me stop the killing of innocent children and families by offering yourself to restart the peace process and end this war?&rdquo; Routh asked in the letter.
Routh depicts himself as Alexander Hamilton from &ldquo;It's a Wonderful Life,&rdquo; who is highly obsessed with George Bailey.
Routh has been researching and reading about the life of founding father Hamilton, who worked as the first US treasury secretary from 1789 to 1795, "crying", over his passing in a battle with former Vice President Aaron Burr.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-proposes-8b-arms-sale-to-israel-reports-8591476" rel="dofollow">Also read: Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report</a>
Further, he linked himself to Bailey, the kindhearted banker portrayed by Jimmy Stewart in the Frank Capra Christmastime classic from 1946.&nbsp;
In his letter, Routh expressed his willingness to surrender to Gaza, stressing that he does not desire a world where "our neighbours struggle" around the world.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I feel as George Bailey, wondering if there is support and value in honor, dignity, righteousness, meek, modest, altruism, magnanimity, empathy, kindness, caring [and] sacrifice," he stated.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-delegation-departs-for-qatar-to-hold-hostage-deal-talks-with-hamas-8588239" rel="dofollow">Also read: Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas</a>
The letter's envelope has Routh's name, his prison ID number, and prison return address, according to the New York Post.&nbsp;
Moreover, Routh's 31-year-old daughter Sara, also signed the letter and confirmed the letter's legitimacy, according to the New York Post.
As he expressed his "willingness to surrender" in Gaza, Routh said this would be merely to restart the peace talks.&nbsp;
He also expressed solidarity with the university students staging violent protests on campus in&nbsp; support of Hamas.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
&ldquo;It was extremely sad when our US leaders crushed the tent cities created by the University students for Gaza,&rdquo; Routh said, encouraging students to rebuild encampments at the &ldquo;edge of Gaza.&rdquo;
Routh was apprehended by federal agents on September 15 last year, with a semiautomatic rifle during a search at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In his letter, Routh expressed his willingness to surrender to Gaza, stressing that he does not desire a world where "our neighbours struggle" around the world. 

Ryan Routh, who made an assasination bid on US President-elect Donald Trump offered to join the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a captive it was revealed in a letter from a jailhouse in Miami, where he is currently imprisoned and pending trial, according to the New York Post The 58-year-old Routh is incarcerated in a federal prison in Miami pending trial for allegedly attempting to kill Trump. Routh in a bizarre letter confirmed by the New York Post, expressed concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Also read: US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza "Will you go with me to Gaza and surrender to Hamas in exchange for a hostage life, please? Will you help me stop the killing of innocent children and families by offering yourself to restart the peace process and end this war?” Routh asked in the letter. Routh depicts himself as Alexander Hamilton from “It's a Wonderful Life,” who is highly obsessed with George Bailey. Routh has been researching and reading about the life of founding father Hamilton, who worked as the first US treasury secretary from 1789 to 1795, "crying", over his passing in a battle with former Vice President Aaron Burr. Also read: Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report Further, he linked himself to Bailey, the kindhearted banker portrayed by Jimmy Stewart in the Frank Capra Christmastime classic from 1946. In his letter, Routh expressed his willingness to surrender to Gaza, stressing that he does not desire a world where "our neighbours struggle" around the world. “I feel as George Bailey, wondering if there is support and value in honor, dignity, righteousness, meek, modest, altruism, magnanimity, empathy, kindness, caring [and] sacrifice," he stated. Also read: Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas The letter's envelope has Routh's name, his prison ID number, and prison return address, according to the New York Post. Moreover, Routh's 31-year-old daughter Sara, also signed the letter and confirmed the letter's legitimacy, according to the New York Post. As he expressed his "willingness to surrender" in Gaza, Routh said this would be merely to restart the peace talks. He also expressed solidarity with the university students staging violent protests on campus in support of Hamas. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone “It was extremely sad when our US leaders crushed the tent cities created by the University students for Gaza,” Routh said, encouraging students to rebuild encampments at the “edge of Gaza.” Routh was apprehended by federal agents on September 15 last year, with a semiautomatic rifle during a search at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

'Willing to surrender in Gaza': Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter

At least six people including Pakistani paramilitary troops were killed and scores injured Saturday, in a bombing claimed by separatists in volatile southwestern Balochistan province, officials said.
A bus carrying paramilitary troops of the Frontier Corps (FC) was travelling from the port city of Karachi to southwestern Turbat city when it was targeted around seven kilometres (four miles) west of the city.
"At least six people, including FC soldiers and civilians, were killed in a bomb attack on a bus," senior local police official Rashid-ur-Rehman told AFP.
More than 25 were injured in the incident, he said, declining to provide further details.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-banned-from-us-airline-after-urinating-on-co-passenger-8591853" aria-label="Man banned from US airline after urinating on co-passenger">Man banned from US airline after urinating on co-passenger</a>
A senior local security official told AFP that it was an apparent suicide attack and the paramilitary troops were targeted.
The official also confirmed the death toll to AFP.
Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was a suicide bombing targeting a Pakistani army convoy.
The BLA frequently claims deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces, notably Punjabis in Balochistan province.
Pakistan has witnessed a dramatic uptick in attacks in recent months, particularly in Balochistan and northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;
In 2024 alone, the military has reported 383 soldiers and 925 militants killed in various clashes.&nbsp;
Security forces have been battling sectarian, ethnic and separatist violence for decades in impoverished Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran.
Militants have in the past targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secy-warned-netanyahu-biden-would-not-visit-israel-if-they-wont-allow-aid-into-gaza-8591823" aria-label="US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza">US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza</a>
In November, separatists claimed responsibility for a bombing at Quetta's&nbsp;main railway station that killed at least 26 people, including 14 soldiers.
In August, the BLA claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks by dozens of assailants who killed at least 39 people, one of the highest tolls to hit the region.
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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&nbsp;to better reflect the content of the story&nbsp;or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.
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More than 25 were injured in the incident, he said, declining to provide further details.

At least six people including Pakistani paramilitary troops were killed and scores injured Saturday, in a bombing claimed by separatists in volatile southwestern Balochistan province, officials said. A bus carrying paramilitary troops of the Frontier Corps (FC) was travelling from the port city of Karachi to southwestern Turbat city when it was targeted around seven kilometres (four miles) west of the city. "At least six people, including FC soldiers and civilians, were killed in a bomb attack on a bus," senior local police official Rashid-ur-Rehman told AFP. More than 25 were injured in the incident, he said, declining to provide further details. Also read | Man banned from US airline after urinating on co-passenger A senior local security official told AFP that it was an apparent suicide attack and the paramilitary troops were targeted. The official also confirmed the death toll to AFP. Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was a suicide bombing targeting a Pakistani army convoy. The BLA frequently claims deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces, notably Punjabis in Balochistan province. Pakistan has witnessed a dramatic uptick in attacks in recent months, particularly in Balochistan and northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. In 2024 alone, the military has reported 383 soldiers and 925 militants killed in various clashes. Security forces have been battling sectarian, ethnic and separatist violence for decades in impoverished Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran. Militants have in the past targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan. Also read | US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza In November, separatists claimed responsibility for a bombing at Quetta's main railway station that killed at least 26 people, including 14 soldiers. In August, the BLA claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks by dozens of assailants who killed at least 39 people, one of the highest tolls to hit the region. 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.

Six people, including Pakistani paramilitary troops, killed in blast claimed by Pakistan separatists: Report

A man has been banned from travelling by United Airlines after allegedly urinating at a sleeping passenger midway into a flight. The unnamed man was travelling from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Manila, Philippines on UA Flight 189. After four hours of flight in the air, he stood up and started peeing on Jerome Gutierrez, who was travelling in business class.&nbsp;
Gutierrez's family was quoted saying by the New York Post, "He was asleep and buckled in and was surprised when he looked at the man and thought he was dreaming."&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secy-warned-netanyahu-biden-would-not-visit-israel-if-they-wont-allow-aid-into-gaza-8591823" aria-label="US State Secy warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza">US State Secy warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza</a>
After the man was done peeing then only Gutierrez realised that it was not a dream and he was soaked in someone's urine.&nbsp;
As per the reports Gutierrez was told by the flight attendant to not approach the man as they feared it would lead to confrontation and further escalate the situation.&nbsp;
"They put the needs of the airline before my stepdad's health. I am so disgusted and in shock with how United Airlines handled this! That is a biohazard, and the plane should've turned around to address this issue," Gutierrez's stepdaughter was reported as saying.&nbsp;
The airline confirmed the incident and said there was "a passenger disturbance" on the flight in question and that the perp had been "banned".
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tomiko-itooka-worlds-oldest-person-dies-at-116-8591778" aria-label="Tomiko Itooka, world's oldest person, dies at 116">Tomiko Itooka, world's oldest person, dies at 116</a>
"On December 28 we asked police to meet our flight when it arrived in Manila to address a passenger disturbance. We have banned this passenger," it further added.&nbsp;
In a similar incident in April last year, an Indian man travelling from New York to Delhi urinated on a co-passenger on an American Airlines flight. It was reported that the man was drunk and urinated on the other female passenger after an argument.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

As per the reports Gutierrez was told by the flight attendant crew to not approach the man as they feared it would lead to confrontation and further escalate the situation. 

A man has been banned from travelling by United Airlines after allegedly urinating at a sleeping passenger midway into a flight. The unnamed man was travelling from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Manila, Philippines on UA Flight 189. After four hours of flight in the air, he stood up and started peeing on Jerome Gutierrez, who was travelling in business class. Gutierrez's family was quoted saying by the New York Post, "He was asleep and buckled in and was surprised when he looked at the man and thought he was dreaming." Also read | US State Secy warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza After the man was done peeing then only Gutierrez realised that it was not a dream and he was soaked in someone's urine. As per the reports Gutierrez was told by the flight attendant to not approach the man as they feared it would lead to confrontation and further escalate the situation. "They put the needs of the airline before my stepdad's health. I am so disgusted and in shock with how United Airlines handled this! That is a biohazard, and the plane should've turned around to address this issue," Gutierrez's stepdaughter was reported as saying. The airline confirmed the incident and said there was "a passenger disturbance" on the flight in question and that the perp had been "banned". Also read | Tomiko Itooka, world's oldest person, dies at 116 "On December 28 we asked police to meet our flight when it arrived in Manila to address a passenger disturbance. We have banned this passenger," it further added. In a similar incident in April last year, an Indian man travelling from New York to Delhi urinated on a co-passenger on an American Airlines flight. It was reported that the man was drunk and urinated on the other female passenger after an argument. (With inputs from agencies)

Man banned from US airline after urinating on co-passenger

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=hamas" rel="dofollow">Hamas</a>'s October 7 attack on Israel last year, he threatened that President Joe Biden would not visit Israel as planned unless Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government allowed aid into Gaza.&nbsp;
Blinken in an interview with The New York Times, highlighted on the initial siege imposed by Israel on Gaza after Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.&nbsp;
The US state secretary further detailed how he met with Israeli leaders including Netanyahu during his trip to Israel after the attack and argued for hours on "end about the basic proposition that the humanitarian assistance needed to get to Palestinians in Gaza."&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-population-declined-by-6-in-2024-israel-faced-slower-population-growth-report-8585645" rel="dofollow">Also read: Gaza population declined by 6% in 2024, Israel faced slower population growth: Report</a>
"And that was an argument that took place because you had in Israel in the days after Oct. 7 a totally traumatized society," he continued.&nbsp;
Blinken said that this was not just the prime minister or a given leader in Israel, rather, this was an entire society that "did not want any assistance getting to a single Palestinian in Gaza."
"I argued that for nine hours," he added.
But ultimately, Biden said, he had to threaten that Biden would not come to Israel if aid did not start going in.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
&ldquo;I told the prime minister, I&rsquo;m going to call the president and tell him not to come if you don&rsquo;t allow this assistance to start flowing. And I called the president to make sure that he agreed with that, and he fully did," he said.&nbsp;
He added "then we got the agreement to begin assistance through Rafah, which we expanded to Kerem Shalom and many other places."
<h2>US does not believe Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza</h2>
Blinken in the interview, said that the US does not believe that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza, although he says that there were times when Israel was not &ldquo;doing enough&rdquo; to allow in humanitarian assistance.
<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">Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report</a>
He further denied that Netanyahu was responsible for a ceasefire hostage deal falling apart in July, adding that ultimately it has been Hamas that foiled an agreement.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What we&rsquo;ve seen time and again is Hamas not concluding a deal that it should have concluded,&rdquo; Blinken said.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Blinken in an interview with The New York Times, highlighted on the initial siege imposed by Israel on Gaza after Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel. 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that days after Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel last year, he threatened that President Joe Biden would not visit Israel as planned unless Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government allowed aid into Gaza. Blinken in an interview with The New York Times, highlighted on the initial siege imposed by Israel on Gaza after Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. The US state secretary further detailed how he met with Israeli leaders including Netanyahu during his trip to Israel after the attack and argued for hours on "end about the basic proposition that the humanitarian assistance needed to get to Palestinians in Gaza." Also read: Gaza population declined by 6% in 2024, Israel faced slower population growth: Report "And that was an argument that took place because you had in Israel in the days after Oct. 7 a totally traumatized society," he continued. Blinken said that this was not just the prime minister or a given leader in Israel, rather, this was an entire society that "did not want any assistance getting to a single Palestinian in Gaza." "I argued that for nine hours," he added. But ultimately, Biden said, he had to threaten that Biden would not come to Israel if aid did not start going in. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone “I told the prime minister, I’m going to call the president and tell him not to come if you don’t allow this assistance to start flowing. And I called the president to make sure that he agreed with that, and he fully did," he said. He added "then we got the agreement to begin assistance through Rafah, which we expanded to Kerem Shalom and many other places." US does not believe Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza Blinken in the interview, said that the US does not believe that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza, although he says that there were times when Israel was not “doing enough” to allow in humanitarian assistance. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report He further denied that Netanyahu was responsible for a ceasefire hostage deal falling apart in July, adding that ultimately it has been Hamas that foiled an agreement. “What we’ve seen time and again is Hamas not concluding a deal that it should have concluded,” Blinken said. 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)

US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if he won't allow aid into Gaza

Six Indian-Americans were for the first time sworn-in as the members of the US House of Representatives on Saturday (Jan 4). These six Indian Americans won in the recently held&nbsp; elections for the United States House of Representatives.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Controversy erupted on Saturday (Jan 4) over a &lsquo;vanity van&rsquo; parked close to Patna&rsquo;s Gandhi Maidan in India, where Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor is on a fast-unto-death over BPSC question paper leak allegations.
In other news, The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on Friday (Jan 3) confirmed the Centre's July 8 notification that declared Gurpatwant Singh Pannun-led Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) an unlawful organisation for five years, Indian news agency ANI reported.
Click on the headlines to read the full stories.
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Six Indian-Americans were for the first time sworn-in as the members of the US House of Representatives on Saturday (Jan 4). These six Indian Americans won in the recently held&nbsp; elections for the United States House of Representatives. 
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The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on Friday (Jan 3) confirmed the Centre's July 8 notification that declared&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Gurpatwant+Singh+Pannun" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gurpatwant Singh Pannun</a>-led Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) an unlawful organisation for five years, Indian news agency ANI reported.
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Beijing on Friday (Jan 3) reacted to the reports of rising cases of Human Metapneumovirus, or HMPV in China, downplaying it as an annual seasonal reoccurrence. A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry confirmed the surge while talking to the media, blaming it on the &ldquo;winter season.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-3-indian-soldiers-died-3-injured-after-army-truck-plunged-into-gorge-in-bandipora-8591308">&nbsp;J&amp;K: 3 Indian soldiers dead, 3 injured as army truck plunges into gorge in Bandipora</a></h2>
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King Charles III was on Saturday said to be "deeply saddened" after police said a British relative of his sons' former nanny was among the victims of the deadly truck-ramming attack in New Orleans.
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/diljit-dosanjh-suggests-pm-modi-to-host-music-festivals-bigger-than-coachella-8591433">&nbsp;Diljit Dosanjh suggests PM Modi to host music festivals bigger than Coachella: 'People from all over the world will come'</a>
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Internet is still abuzz with the meeting of Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his conversation with PM Modi, the ''Lover'' singer discussed India's potential to host events like the Coachella music festival.
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Here are the top 10 stories from across the world.

Six Indian-Americans were for the first time sworn-in as the members of the US House of Representatives on Saturday (Jan 4). These six Indian Americans won in the recently held elections for the United States House of Representatives. Meanwhile, Controversy erupted on Saturday (Jan 4) over a ‘vanity van’ parked close to Patna’s Gandhi Maidan in India, where Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor is on a fast-unto-death over BPSC question paper leak allegations. In other news, The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on Friday (Jan 3) confirmed the Centre's July 8 notification that declared Gurpatwant Singh Pannun-led Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) an unlawful organisation for five years, Indian news agency ANI reported. Click on the headlines to read the full stories. Samosa Caucus swears in: Six Indian Americans take oath as members of House of Representatives Six Indian-Americans were for the first time sworn-in as the members of the US House of Representatives on Saturday (Jan 4). These six Indian Americans won in the recently held elections for the United States House of Representatives. Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles Hours after Ukraine fired eight US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles on Saturday (Jan 4), Russia said that it shot down the missiles and warned that they would retaliate. India: UAPA Tribunal upholds ban on Khalistani terrorist Pannun's Sikhs For Justice The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on Friday (Jan 3) confirmed the Centre's July 8 notification that declared Gurpatwant Singh Pannun-led Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) an unlawful organisation for five years, Indian news agency ANI reported. Meta denies taking down its AI-powered chatbots from Instagram and Facebook Social media giant Meta denies taking down profiles of AI characters from Facebook and Instagram, which it created over a year ago after users discovered some of the profiles led to a viral controversy, the Guardian reported on Saturday (Jan 4). China HMPV scare: Beijing confirms infection surge, calls it 'annual winter occurrence' Beijing on Friday (Jan 3) reacted to the reports of rising cases of Human Metapneumovirus, or HMPV in China, downplaying it as an annual seasonal reoccurrence. A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry confirmed the surge while talking to the media, blaming it on the “winter season.” J&K: 3 Indian soldiers dead, 3 injured as army truck plunges into gorge in Bandipora Three soldiers died while another 3 were injured after an army truck plunged into a gorge in the Bandipora district of the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday (Jan 4). BJP announces candidates for Delhi polls, fields Parvesh Verma against Arvind Kejriwal The BJP on Saturday released its first list of 29 candidates for the Delhi Assembly polls, fielding former MP Parvesh Verma from the New Delhi seat against ex-chief minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal. King Charles III 'deeply saddened' at death of royal nanny's stepson in New Orleans attack King Charles III was on Saturday said to be "deeply saddened" after police said a British relative of his sons' former nanny was among the victims of the deadly truck-ramming attack in New Orleans. La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have rejected Barcelona’s registration of attacker Dani Olmo as reported on Saturday (Jan 4). Diljit Dosanjh suggests PM Modi to host music festivals bigger than Coachella: 'People from all over the world will come' Internet is still abuzz with the meeting of Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his conversation with PM Modi, the ''Lover'' singer discussed India's potential to host events like the Coachella music festival.

Top 10 world news: Samosa Caucus swears in; Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires missiles, and more

The world's oldest person, Japanese woman Tomiko Itooka, has died aged 116, the city where she lived, Ashiya, announced on Saturday.
Itooka, who had four children and five grandchildren, died on December 29 at a nursing home where she resided since 2019, the southern city's mayor said in a statement.
She was born on May 23, 1908, in the commercial hub of Osaka, near Ashiya -- four months before the Ford Model T was launched in the United States.
Itooka was recognised as the oldest person in the world after the August 2024 death of Spain's Maria Branyas Morera at age 117.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-releases-footage-claiming-to-show-troops-inside-area-used-as-hideout-by-hamas-8591638" aria-label="IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas">IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas</a>
"Ms Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life," Ashiya's 27-year-old mayor Ryosuke Takashima said in the statement.
"We thank her for it."
Itooka, who was one of three siblings, lived through world wars and pandemics as well as technological breakthroughs.
As a student, she played volleyball.
In her older age, Itooka enjoyed bananas and Calpis, a milky soft drink popular in Japan, according to the mayor's statement.
Women typically enjoy longevity in Japan, but the country is facing a worsening demographic crisis as its expanding elderly population leads to soaring medical and welfare costs, with a shrinking labour force to pay for it.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-award-presidential-medal-of-freedom-to-hillary-clinton-george-soros-and-lionel-messi-among-16-others-8591521" aria-label="Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others">Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others</a>
As of September, Japan counted more than 95,000 people who were 100 or older - 88 per cent of whom were women.
Of the country's 124 million people, nearly a third are 65 or older.
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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&nbsp;to better reflect the content of the story&nbsp;or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.
</div>

Itooka was recognised as the oldest person in the world after the August 2024 death of Spain's Maria Branyas Morera at age 117.

The world's oldest person, Japanese woman Tomiko Itooka, has died aged 116, the city where she lived, Ashiya, announced on Saturday. Itooka, who had four children and five grandchildren, died on December 29 at a nursing home where she resided since 2019, the southern city's mayor said in a statement. She was born on May 23, 1908, in the commercial hub of Osaka, near Ashiya -- four months before the Ford Model T was launched in the United States. Itooka was recognised as the oldest person in the world after the August 2024 death of Spain's Maria Branyas Morera at age 117. Also read | IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas "Ms Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life," Ashiya's 27-year-old mayor Ryosuke Takashima said in the statement. "We thank her for it." Itooka, who was one of three siblings, lived through world wars and pandemics as well as technological breakthroughs. As a student, she played volleyball. In her older age, Itooka enjoyed bananas and Calpis, a milky soft drink popular in Japan, according to the mayor's statement. Women typically enjoy longevity in Japan, but the country is facing a worsening demographic crisis as its expanding elderly population leads to soaring medical and welfare costs, with a shrinking labour force to pay for it. Also read | Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others As of September, Japan counted more than 95,000 people who were 100 or older - 88 per cent of whom were women. Of the country's 124 million people, nearly a third are 65 or older. 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.

Tomiko Itooka, world's oldest person, dies at 116

The Israeli Defence Force (IDF) shared footage on Saturday (Jan 4) claiming that it showed troops inside an area which was used as a &ldquo;hideout and terror complex in the northern Gaza Strip&rdquo; by Hamas. The video shared by the army showed troops operating in the destroyed building and firing weapons.&nbsp;
The IDF further reported that its troops completed an operation earlier this week to destroy all the structures that served as "a central terror hub containing anti-tank firing positions, booby traps, shafts, numerous explosives, and launch sites for targeting Israeli territory.&rdquo;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-award-presidential-medal-of-freedom-to-hillary-clinton-george-soros-and-lionel-messi-among-16-others-8591521" aria-label="Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others">Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others</a>
As per the Israeli media, Hamas militants are unable to move within Jabalaiya, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun due to the IDF's aggressive operations in the areas. IDF has reportedly launched large ground forces that are conducting targeted operations across the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
<h3>Hostage deal on the way?&nbsp;</h3>
This came after an Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-proposes-8b-arms-sale-to-israel-reports-8591476" aria-label="Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report">Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report</a>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;
"Netanyahu authorised a working-level delegation from the Mossad, Shin Bet, and IDF to continue negotiations in Doha," the Israeli PMO said in a statement.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

The video captures troops maneuvering through a heavily damaged building, showcasing their adaptability and resilience in navigating complex and hazardous environments.

The Israeli Defence Force (IDF) shared footage on Saturday (Jan 4) claiming that it showed troops inside an area which was used as a “hideout and terror complex in the northern Gaza Strip” by Hamas. The video shared by the army showed troops operating in the destroyed building and firing weapons. The IDF further reported that its troops completed an operation earlier this week to destroy all the structures that served as "a central terror hub containing anti-tank firing positions, booby traps, shafts, numerous explosives, and launch sites for targeting Israeli territory.” Also read | Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others As per the Israeli media, Hamas militants are unable to move within Jabalaiya, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun due to the IDF's aggressive operations in the areas. IDF has reportedly launched large ground forces that are conducting targeted operations across the Gaza Strip. Hostage deal on the way? This came after an Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip. Also read | Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jan 2) that he had okayed the delegation's departure to discuss a potential hostage-ceasefire agreement. "Netanyahu authorised a working-level delegation from the Mossad, Shin Bet, and IDF to continue negotiations in Doha," the Israeli PMO said in a statement. 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)

IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas

Three soldiers were killed when an army vehicle plunged into a gorge in Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir. The incident has raised concerns over safety during military operations in the region.

India: 3 soldiers killed as army vehicle plunges into Gorge in Bandipora

US President Joe Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to a group of former government officials, entertainers, athletes and philanthropists for their contributions to serving the nation. Among the receivers of the medal are former Secretary of State and US Senator Hillary Clinton, soccer player Lionel Messi, and other big names. Philanthropist George Soros is also among the recipients. Robert F Kennedy, the former attorney general and US senator, will be cited posthumously. There are a total of 19 people chosen for awarding the medal on Saturday (Jan 4) at a White House ceremony.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-proposes-8b-arms-sale-to-israel-reports-8591476" aria-label="Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report">Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report</a>
The ceremony will be the latest in a series of events by the outgoing president Joe Biden during his last weeks in the White House.&nbsp;
Spanish-born chef Josė Andrės who founded World Central Kitchen, which the White House said &ldquo;revolutionized the way food aid reaches communities affected by natural disasters and conflict around the world," is among other recipients of the medal.&nbsp;
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest honour in America and is given to people who have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours". &nbsp;
<h3>The medal and president's political leaning&nbsp;</h3>
The medal is also said to be a representation of the political leaning of the ongoing US president. Clinton was the Democratic presidential nominee in 2016 and ran against the upcoming US President Donald Trump. Soros is a well-known supporter of liberal causes and candidates.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-judge-sets-sentencing-date-but-signals-no-jail-time-8589737" aria-label="Trump hush money trial: Judge sets sentencing date but signals no jail time">Trump hush money trial: Judge sets sentencing date but signals no jail time</a>
In his first term in the White House, Trump awarded the medal to the conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh and the Republican donor Miriam Adelson.
(With inputs from agencies)

The White House ceremony on January will honor individuals with prestigious medals, recognizing their significant contributions across various fields and sectors.

US President Joe Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to a group of former government officials, entertainers, athletes and philanthropists for their contributions to serving the nation. Among the receivers of the medal are former Secretary of State and US Senator Hillary Clinton, soccer player Lionel Messi, and other big names. Philanthropist George Soros is also among the recipients. Robert F Kennedy, the former attorney general and US senator, will be cited posthumously. There are a total of 19 people chosen for awarding the medal on Saturday (Jan 4) at a White House ceremony. Also read | Biden administration proposes $8B arms sale to Israel: Report The ceremony will be the latest in a series of events by the outgoing president Joe Biden during his last weeks in the White House. Spanish-born chef Josė Andrės who founded World Central Kitchen, which the White House said “revolutionized the way food aid reaches communities affected by natural disasters and conflict around the world," is among other recipients of the medal. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest honour in America and is given to people who have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours". The medal and president's political leaning The medal is also said to be a representation of the political leaning of the ongoing US president. Clinton was the Democratic presidential nominee in 2016 and ran against the upcoming US President Donald Trump. Soros is a well-known supporter of liberal causes and candidates. Also read | Trump hush money trial: Judge sets sentencing date but signals no jail time In his first term in the White House, Trump awarded the medal to the conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh and the Republican donor Miriam Adelson. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden to award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Lionel Messi among 16 others

Mike Johnson was narrowly re-elected as House Speaker with the strong backing of Donald Trump. His victory marks a significant moment in the ongoing political landscape in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mike Johnson re-elected house speaker with Donald Trump's backing

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