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

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

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

Scientists reveal the SAFEST COUNTRY when catastrophe strikes the planet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on global outreach tour 

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

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

How the S-400 protects itself from enemy attacks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Delhi remains under a blanket of dense fog as a cold wave sweeps through the city. Over 100 flights have been delayed at the Delhi airport. The national capital recorded a temperature of 9.6°C at 5:30 a.m. today. Watch in for more details!

Cold wave grips India: Delhi endures intense cold wave and dense fog

South Korea’s impeached President Yoon has defied an arrest warrant issued against him. The move escalates tensions amid ongoing political and legal challenges.

South Korea Political crisis: Impeached President Yoon defies arrest warrant

This New Year Eve,100,000 balloons were released by Abu Dhabi on New Year&rsquo;s Eve, and it had a long-term goal.&nbsp; Each balloon was carrying seeds intended to enhance the emirate&rsquo;s vegetation cover. As part of the Sheikh Zayed Festival&rsquo;s sustainability efforts,&nbsp;the initiative aligns with the festival&rsquo;s commitment to environmental awareness and agricultural innovation.
The balloons were made from biodegradable materials using 100 per cent natural latex, said a report in the Khaleej Times newspaper.
Each balloon contained a variety of 1,000 seeds. These included native species such as Ghaf, Samar, and other desert plants, designed to support Abu Dhabi&rsquo;s ecological restoration and greenery expansion.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-pics-how-world-celebrated-new-year-2025-8582095">New Year in pics | World welcomes 2025 with fireworks, celebrations</a>
The authorities also introduced special drones in 2024, capable of planting seeds over areas equivalent to 100 football fields daily.&nbsp;
These drones were developed in collaboration with environmental technology company Kendra. They can deploy up to 53 plant species in a single mission, monitor restoration progress, and assess ecological impact.
<h2 class="p1">Sheikh Zayed Festival</h2>
The Sheikh Zayed Festival, which began on November 1 and runs until February 28, attracted over 100,000 visitors on New Year&rsquo;s Eve, surpassing expectations.
The event featured advanced light and laser displays, including a 3,000-drone show that formed a portrait of Sheikh Zayed in the sky.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-man-beaten-to-death-after-dispute-over-loud-music-on-new-years-eve-8587645">Delhi man beaten to death after dispute over loud music on New Year&rsquo;s Eve</a>
The celebration concluded with a 53-minute fireworks display, marking the arrival of 2025.
This initiative reflects Sheikh Zayed&rsquo;s legacy of sustainable agricultural practices and other greening initiatives in the region.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: On New Year’s Eve, Abu Dhabi released 100,000 biodegradable balloons containing 100 million seeds, including native desert plants, to enhance local greenery. 

This New Year Eve,100,000 balloons were released by Abu Dhabi on New Year’s Eve, and it had a long-term goal. Each balloon was carrying seeds intended to enhance the emirate’s vegetation cover. As part of the Sheikh Zayed Festival’s sustainability efforts, the initiative aligns with the festival’s commitment to environmental awareness and agricultural innovation. The balloons were made from biodegradable materials using 100 per cent natural latex, said a report in the Khaleej Times newspaper. Each balloon contained a variety of 1,000 seeds. These included native species such as Ghaf, Samar, and other desert plants, designed to support Abu Dhabi’s ecological restoration and greenery expansion. Also read: New Year in pics | World welcomes 2025 with fireworks, celebrations The authorities also introduced special drones in 2024, capable of planting seeds over areas equivalent to 100 football fields daily. These drones were developed in collaboration with environmental technology company Kendra. They can deploy up to 53 plant species in a single mission, monitor restoration progress, and assess ecological impact. Sheikh Zayed Festival The Sheikh Zayed Festival, which began on November 1 and runs until February 28, attracted over 100,000 visitors on New Year’s Eve, surpassing expectations. The event featured advanced light and laser displays, including a 3,000-drone show that formed a portrait of Sheikh Zayed in the sky. Also read: Delhi man beaten to death after dispute over loud music on New Year’s Eve The celebration concluded with a 53-minute fireworks display, marking the arrival of 2025. This initiative reflects Sheikh Zayed’s legacy of sustainable agricultural practices and other greening initiatives in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

100,000 balloons released in Abu Dhabi on New Year carrying 100 million seeds for this reason

China is making a bid to establish two new counties, a move that could have significant political and territorial implications. The development has sparked debates over regional governance and autonomy.

BREAKING: China's bid to establish two new counties

Seven out of 10 UK family doctors are worn out and suffering from "compassion fatigue", finding it hard to empathize with their patients, a poll published Thursday said.

UK: Most doctors suffer from 'Compassion Fatigue': Poll

England's National Health Service (NHS) warned on Friday (Jan 3) that the number of people with flu in hospitals has surged over Christmas, stressing that it is rising sharply "at a very concerning rate".&nbsp;
There were 5,000 patients being treated for the virus in hospitals at the end of last week, according to the latest data, which is almost 3.5 times higher than the same week in 2023. However, it is not as high as in 2022.
The emergency doctors told the BBC that pressure on hospitals is unacceptably awful" and flu is pushing them to breaking point.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/china-faces-new-virus-outbreak-what-is-hmpv-a-few-faqs-answered-8588230" rel="dofollow">China faces new virus outbreak- What is HMPV? A few FAQs answered</a>
Health officials have also warned of the impact of very cold weather over this weekend on vulnerable patients.&nbsp;
NHS national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, Prof Julian Redhead, said that the figures show "the pressure from flu was nowhere near letting up before we headed into the New Year, skyrocketing to over 5,000 cases a day in hospitals as of the end of last week and rising at a very concerning rate".
He further said that the low temperatures can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-facing-hmpv-outbreak-symptoms-and-precautions-8587512" rel="dofollow">HMPV outbreak in China? Amid viral videos and govt ambiguity, know symptoms and precautions</a>
The professor said that the people at risk should try and keep warm, making sure they have stocked up on regular medications.&nbsp;
<h2>Hospital preparedness amid rise in flu</h2>
This year, hospitals have put extra beds in place to deal with the rise in flu cases and other winter viruses, including Covid and norovirus ((the winter vomiting bug).
Moreover, some of the hospitals in different regions of England have also restricted visits and asked patients and visitors to wear face masks to prevent the spread of the flu virus.
The pressures on emergency departments of the hospital were "unacceptably awful", Dr Adrian Boyle, head of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, told BBC Radio 4's Today program.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-dealing-with-new-epidemic-five-years-after-covid-19-claim-reports-8586676" rel="dofollow">China dealing with new epidemic five years after Covid-19, claim reports</a>
He further said that there was an enormous amount of avoidable harm, "excess deaths that shouldn't be happening."
"Flu is the straw that is breaking the camel's back because we have this chronic lack of beds within our hospitals and we don't use those beds properly because we haven't reformed social care," he added.
Earlier this week, First Minister John Swinney stressed that the NHS was under "very significant pressures".
Moreover, a Welsh government spokesperson also said that there were continued "high levels of demand" on urgent and emergency care services this winter, adding that an increase in flu cases has caused more pressure during Christmas.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-claims-shared-info-on-covid-without-holding-anything-back-after-who-says-beijing-has-moral-and-scientific-imperative-to-be-transparent-8580680" rel="dofollow">China claims it shared info on Covid &lsquo;without holding anything back&rsquo;</a>
This comes amid reports surfacing that five years after the Covid pandemic, China is now facing another virus outbreak.&nbsp;
According to reports and social media posts, the country is dealing with an outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV).
As per social media posts, a state of emergency has been declared in China as not just HMPV, but other viruses including Influenza A are rapidly spreading.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, trending: There were 5,000 patients being treated for the virus in hospitals at the end of last week, which is almost 3.5 times higher than the same week in 2023. 

England's National Health Service (NHS) warned on Friday (Jan 3) that the number of people with flu in hospitals has surged over Christmas, stressing that it is rising sharply "at a very concerning rate". There were 5,000 patients being treated for the virus in hospitals at the end of last week, according to the latest data, which is almost 3.5 times higher than the same week in 2023. However, it is not as high as in 2022. The emergency doctors told the BBC that pressure on hospitals is unacceptably awful" and flu is pushing them to breaking point. Also read: China faces new virus outbreak- What is HMPV? A few FAQs answered Health officials have also warned of the impact of very cold weather over this weekend on vulnerable patients. NHS national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, Prof Julian Redhead, said that the figures show "the pressure from flu was nowhere near letting up before we headed into the New Year, skyrocketing to over 5,000 cases a day in hospitals as of the end of last week and rising at a very concerning rate". He further said that the low temperatures can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions. Also read: HMPV outbreak in China? Amid viral videos and govt ambiguity, know symptoms and precautions The professor said that the people at risk should try and keep warm, making sure they have stocked up on regular medications. Hospital preparedness amid rise in flu This year, hospitals have put extra beds in place to deal with the rise in flu cases and other winter viruses, including Covid and norovirus ((the winter vomiting bug). Moreover, some of the hospitals in different regions of England have also restricted visits and asked patients and visitors to wear face masks to prevent the spread of the flu virus. The pressures on emergency departments of the hospital were "unacceptably awful", Dr Adrian Boyle, head of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, told BBC Radio 4's Today program. Also read: China dealing with new epidemic five years after Covid-19, claim reports He further said that there was an enormous amount of avoidable harm, "excess deaths that shouldn't be happening." "Flu is the straw that is breaking the camel's back because we have this chronic lack of beds within our hospitals and we don't use those beds properly because we haven't reformed social care," he added. Earlier this week, First Minister John Swinney stressed that the NHS was under "very significant pressures". Moreover, a Welsh government spokesperson also said that there were continued "high levels of demand" on urgent and emergency care services this winter, adding that an increase in flu cases has caused more pressure during Christmas. Also read: China claims it shared info on Covid ‘without holding anything back’ This comes amid reports surfacing that five years after the Covid pandemic, China is now facing another virus outbreak. According to reports and social media posts, the country is dealing with an outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV). As per social media posts, a state of emergency has been declared in China as not just HMPV, but other viruses including Influenza A are rapidly spreading. (With inputs from agencies)

England sees a sharp rise in flu cases, over 5,000 patients treated last week

Jack Danaher Molloy has been indicted for allegedly attempting to join Hezbollah, a designated terrorist organization. The charges stem from his involvement in efforts to support and align with the group's activities.

Who is Jack Danaher Molloy? Indicted for allegedly attempting to Join Hezbollah

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi handed over a ceremonial ‘Chadar’ to Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, on Thursday (Jan 2). The chadar will be offered at Ajmer Sharif Dargah during the 813th Urs (the death anniversary of a Sufi saint) of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, marking PM Modi’s 11th consecutive offering since assuming office in 2014.

India: PM Modi sends ceremonial chadar to be offered at Ajmer Sharif Dargah during Urs

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit accusing its digital assistant Siri of listening in on users&rsquo; private conversations.
The proposed settlement filed in an Oakland, California, federal court on Tuesday came with Apple holding firm that it did nothing wrong.
&ldquo;Apple has at all times denied and continues to deny any alleged wrongdoing and liability,&rdquo; the tech titan said in the proposed settlement, which requires a judge&rsquo;s approval to be finalised.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-impeached-president-yoon-defies-arrest-warrant" aria-label="South Korea: Impeached President Yoon defies arrest warrant">South Korea: Impeached President Yoon defies arrest warrant</a>
A class-action lawsuit filed five years ago accused Siri of listening in on private conversations of people with iPhones, iPads, HomePods or other Apple devices enhanced with the digital assistant.
The California-based tech giant has made user privacy a big part of its brand image and is one of the reasons it tightly controls its &ldquo;ecosystem&rdquo; of hardware and software.
Talk captured by &ldquo;unintended Siri activation&rdquo; was obtained by Apple and perhaps even shared with third parties, according to the suit.
A proposed settlement fund of US$95 million would be used to pay no more than US$20 per Siri device to US owners who had private conversations captured without permission, the settlement indicated.
The agreement also requires Apple to confirm it has deleted any overheard talk and make user choices clear when it comes to voice data gathered to improve Siri.
Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-gifted-jill-biden-diamond-worth-20000-in-2023-8588441" aria-label="Indian PM Modi gifted Jill Biden diamond worth $20,000 in 2023">Indian PM Modi gifted Jill Biden diamond worth $20,000 in 2023</a>
In 2023, Amazon agreed to pay more than US$30 million to the US Federal Trade Commission to settle litigation accusing the company of violating privacy with its Ring doorbell cameras and Alexa digital assistant.
<div class="post-content">
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>
</div>

The proposed settlement filed in an Oakland, California, federal court on Tuesday came with Apple holding firm that it did nothing wrong.

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit accusing its digital assistant Siri of listening in on users’ private conversations. The proposed settlement filed in an Oakland, California, federal court on Tuesday came with Apple holding firm that it did nothing wrong. “Apple has at all times denied and continues to deny any alleged wrongdoing and liability,” the tech titan said in the proposed settlement, which requires a judge’s approval to be finalised. Also read | South Korea: Impeached President Yoon defies arrest warrant A class-action lawsuit filed five years ago accused Siri of listening in on private conversations of people with iPhones, iPads, HomePods or other Apple devices enhanced with the digital assistant. The California-based tech giant has made user privacy a big part of its brand image and is one of the reasons it tightly controls its “ecosystem” of hardware and software. Talk captured by “unintended Siri activation” was obtained by Apple and perhaps even shared with third parties, according to the suit. A proposed settlement fund of US$95 million would be used to pay no more than US$20 per Siri device to US owners who had private conversations captured without permission, the settlement indicated. The agreement also requires Apple to confirm it has deleted any overheard talk and make user choices clear when it comes to voice data gathered to improve Siri. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Also read | Indian PM Modi gifted Jill Biden diamond worth $20,000 in 2023 In 2023, Amazon agreed to pay more than US$30 million to the US Federal Trade Commission to settle litigation accusing the company of violating privacy with its Ring doorbell cameras and Alexa digital assistant. 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.

Apple to pay $95 million for lawsuit against Siri for listening user's private conversation

Blinkit’s new 10-minute ambulance service is gaining attention for its potential to quickly deliver emergency medical assistance. The service aims to improve response times and save lives in critical situations.

Blinkit's 10-minute ambulance service in focus

Hindenburg Research has accused the auto retailer Carvana of engaging in financial fraud. The firm claims Carvana manipulated its financial statements and misled investors about its financial health.

Hindenburg accuses auto retailer carvana of financial fraud

Israel has launched airstrikes on Syrian army positions near Aleppo in response to ongoing tensions. The strikes target military sites amid the broader regional conflict.

Israel war: Israel strikes Syrian army positions near Aleppo

China is facing another health concern as cases of respiratory infections have surged sharply in recent days. Officials suggest that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) could be the likely cause. Despite widespread social media posts portraying the situation as a crisis, neither Chinese authorities nor the World Health Organization (WHO) have officially declared a state of emergency.

What is HMPV and what are its symptoms?

The FBI has now released fresh surveillance footage to help revive the search for the suspect responsible for planting five bombs in Washington DC on the night before the January 6, 2021 Capitol Riot. Watch in for more details!

US: FBI intensifies search for Washington DC pipe bomb suspect

Impeached South Korean President Yoon defies arrest warrant amid political crisis

US First Lady Jill Biden received a 7.5-carat green lab-grown eco-friendly diamond worth $20,000 from the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit in 2023, including other gits. The diamond gifted to Jill reflects the "chemical and optical properties of earth-mined diamonds" and was kept in a box that was made of paper pulp. The paper pulp is known as kar-e-kalamdani.
A report by the Office of the Chief of Protocol of the United States revealed that the Ukrainian ambassador to the US gifted a brooch worth $14,063. The First Lady further received a bracelet, brooch, and a photograph album worth $4,510 from the President and First Lady of Egypt.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhopal-gas-tragedys-waste-disposal-two-men-set-themselves-on-fire-amid-protests-8588360" aria-label="Bhopal gas tragedy&rsquo;s waste disposal: Two men set themselves on fire amid protests">Bhopal gas tragedy&rsquo;s waste disposal: Two men set themselves on fire amid protests</a>
The declaration came because as per US law, officials from the executive branch, including the president, have to declare gifts they receive from foreign leaders that are worth more than $480.&nbsp;
As per a State Department document, the $20,000 diamond was retained for official use in the White House East Wing. The other gifts given to the US president and the First Lady were sent to the archives.&nbsp;
PM Modi gifted the diamond in 223 when he visited the US and was hosted by the outgoing US President Joe Biden and his wife. Modi gifted a handcrafted sandalwood box to Bidens as an official gift. The box contained a silver idol of Lord Ganesha, a diya (oil lamp) and 'Das Danam'. Modi also gifted a copy of the first edition print of the book 'The Ten Principal Upanishads'.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-takes-jibe-at-kejriwals-sheesh-mahal-while-inaugurating-development-project-in-delhi-8588156" aria-label="Indian PM Narendra Modi takes jibe at Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' while inaugurating development project in Delhi, AAP says such statement 'doesn't suit PM'">Indian PM Narendra Modi takes jibe at Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' while inaugurating development project in Delhi, AAP says such statement 'doesn't suit PM'</a>
In return gift, Biden gifted an antique American book galley to Modi. The couple further gave a vintage American camera, a hardcover book of American wildlife photography and a signed, first-edition copy of 'Collected Poems of Robert Frost to the Indian PM.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

As per a State Department document, the $20,000 diamond was retained for official use in the White House East Wing.

US First Lady Jill Biden received a 7.5-carat green lab-grown eco-friendly diamond worth $20,000 from the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit in 2023, including other gits. The diamond gifted to Jill reflects the "chemical and optical properties of earth-mined diamonds" and was kept in a box that was made of paper pulp. The paper pulp is known as kar-e-kalamdani. A report by the Office of the Chief of Protocol of the United States revealed that the Ukrainian ambassador to the US gifted a brooch worth $14,063. The First Lady further received a bracelet, brooch, and a photograph album worth $4,510 from the President and First Lady of Egypt. Also read | Bhopal gas tragedy’s waste disposal: Two men set themselves on fire amid protests The declaration came because as per US law, officials from the executive branch, including the president, have to declare gifts they receive from foreign leaders that are worth more than $480. As per a State Department document, the $20,000 diamond was retained for official use in the White House East Wing. The other gifts given to the US president and the First Lady were sent to the archives. PM Modi gifted the diamond in 223 when he visited the US and was hosted by the outgoing US President Joe Biden and his wife. Modi gifted a handcrafted sandalwood box to Bidens as an official gift. The box contained a silver idol of Lord Ganesha, a diya (oil lamp) and 'Das Danam'. Modi also gifted a copy of the first edition print of the book 'The Ten Principal Upanishads'. Also read | Indian PM Narendra Modi takes jibe at Kejriwal's 'sheesh mahal' while inaugurating development project in Delhi, AAP says such statement 'doesn't suit PM' In return gift, Biden gifted an antique American book galley to Modi. The couple further gave a vintage American camera, a hardcover book of American wildlife photography and a signed, first-edition copy of 'Collected Poems of Robert Frost to the Indian PM. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi gifted Jill Biden diamond worth $20,000 in 2023

South Korea: Impeached President Yoon defies arrest warrant

South Korea: Impeached Prez Yoon defies arrest warrant

Most UK doctors suffer from 'compassion fatigue': Poll

The U.S. Commerce Department said on Thursday it is considering new rules that would impose restrictions on Chinese drones that would restrict or ban them in the United States citing national security concerns.

US moves to curb security risks from drone

Hindenburg alleges auto retailer carvana of financial fraud

Nick Clegg is stepping down from his position at Meta ahead of Donald Trump's potential return to the platform. This move comes amid growing scrutiny and strategic shifts within the company.

Nick Clegg leaves Meta ahead of Trump's return

An Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" have departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=+Benjamin+Netanyahu+" rel="dofollow">Benjamin Netanyahu </a>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;
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>
The Israeli delegation comprises Mossad, the country's intelligence agency; Shin Bet or the Israeli Security Agency, the intelligence, technological, and operational organisation of Israel; and Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).
Moreover, a delegation from the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is also expected to reach Doha to proceed with the negotiations.&nbsp;
<h2>Ceasefire-hostage talks reached an impasse</h2>
This comes amid the circulating reports that the ceasefire-hostage talks had reached an impasse.&nbsp;The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal earlier this week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896" rel="dofollow">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel-Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse, adding that&nbsp;the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration.&nbsp;
Following Netanyahu's approval to send a delegation to Qatar, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a civil, volunteer-based organisation, representing the families of the hostages, welcomes the decision, saying that the "window of opportunity" cannot be missed.&nbsp;
However, in November last year, Qatar stressed that it halted its role as a ceasefire mediator due to a lack of willingness by Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-warns-hamas-to-let-hostages-come-back-soon-8582598">Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon'</a>
Lately, Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been blaming each other for not following the terms of the deal. Hamas said that Israel had set "new issues and conditions" on the terms of a deal and Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on understandings."&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: 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.

An Israeli delegation of "working-level negotiators" have departed Tel Aviv to attend talks in Qatar's capital Doha for further negotiations regarding a hostage agreement in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reported. 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. Also read: Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report The Israeli delegation comprises Mossad, the country's intelligence agency; Shin Bet or the Israeli Security Agency, the intelligence, technological, and operational organisation of Israel; and Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Moreover, a delegation from the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, is also expected to reach Doha to proceed with the negotiations. Ceasefire-hostage talks reached an impasse This comes amid the circulating reports that the ceasefire-hostage talks had reached an impasse. The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a dead end, Arab mediators told the Wall Street Journal earlier this week. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone The mediators said that despite new hopes for their renewed talks, Israel-Hamas discussions to secure the deal have hit an impasse, adding that the deal is unlikely to be completed by the end of Biden's administration. Following Netanyahu's approval to send a delegation to Qatar, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a civil, volunteer-based organisation, representing the families of the hostages, welcomes the decision, saying that the "window of opportunity" cannot be missed. However, in November last year, Qatar stressed that it halted its role as a ceasefire mediator due to a lack of willingness by Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement. Also read:Trump warns Hamas to 'let hostages come back soon' Lately, Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been blaming each other for not following the terms of the deal. Hamas said that Israel had set "new issues and conditions" on the terms of a deal and Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on understandings." 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)

Israeli delegation departs for Qatar to hold hostage deal talks with Hamas

Sara Sharif's father, who was sentenced to 40 years in prison for assaulting and killing his 10-year-old daughter was attacked in his prison cell inmates and "had his neck slashed with tuna can lid". Police said that two inmates were sickened after knowing his crime and attacked Urfan Shjarif in his cell on New Year's Day at a jail in South London. He survived the attack but was left in critical condition just two weeks after his sentence.&nbsp;
The attackers reportedly said that the attack "couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy".&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733" aria-label="Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her</a>
Police said that two inmates were sickened after knowing his crime and attacked Urfan Shjarif in his cell on New Year's Day at a jail in South London. He survived the attack but was left in critical condition just two weeks after his sentence.&nbsp;
The Prison Service and the Metropolitan Police confirmed the attack but denied commenting any further saying that an investigation has been launched into the matter.&nbsp;
As per the Daily Mail, a prison source said, "Urfan was sliced up badly in his cell by two others who rushed in. It was planned and they used a makeshift weapon, made from the lid of a tin of tuna. He was sliced in the neck and face, and is still in healthcare and in a very bad way."&nbsp;
The source further quoted saying, "He was lucky to survive, has had to have stitches and will have scars as a permanent reminder of the attack. The guards tried to keep him safe because he obviously had a target on his back after the case was such big news. Something like this was always on the cards, and an attack was probably only a matter of time."&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-case-father-stepmother-and-uncle-charged-with-10-year-olds-murder-636114" aria-label="Sara Sharif case: Father, stepmother and uncle charged with 10-year-old&rsquo;s murder in UK">Sara Sharif case: Father, stepmother and uncle charged with 10-year-old&rsquo;s murder in UK</a>
"Inmates were not happy he is in there with them and, although the other prisoners are in for heinous crimes, a lot of them don't like people who attack children. A lot of them are saying how it couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy," Daily Mial quoted a prison source as saying. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

It was reported that now Sharif is scared for his life in prison. 

Sara Sharif's father, who was sentenced to 40 years in prison for assaulting and killing his 10-year-old daughter was attacked in his prison cell inmates and "had his neck slashed with tuna can lid". Police said that two inmates were sickened after knowing his crime and attacked Urfan Shjarif in his cell on New Year's Day at a jail in South London. He survived the attack but was left in critical condition just two weeks after his sentence. The attackers reportedly said that the attack "couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy". Also read | Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her Police said that two inmates were sickened after knowing his crime and attacked Urfan Shjarif in his cell on New Year's Day at a jail in South London. He survived the attack but was left in critical condition just two weeks after his sentence. The Prison Service and the Metropolitan Police confirmed the attack but denied commenting any further saying that an investigation has been launched into the matter. As per the Daily Mail, a prison source said, "Urfan was sliced up badly in his cell by two others who rushed in. It was planned and they used a makeshift weapon, made from the lid of a tin of tuna. He was sliced in the neck and face, and is still in healthcare and in a very bad way." The source further quoted saying, "He was lucky to survive, has had to have stitches and will have scars as a permanent reminder of the attack. The guards tried to keep him safe because he obviously had a target on his back after the case was such big news. Something like this was always on the cards, and an attack was probably only a matter of time." Also read | Sara Sharif case: Father, stepmother and uncle charged with 10-year-old’s murder in UK "Inmates were not happy he is in there with them and, although the other prisoners are in for heinous crimes, a lot of them don't like people who attack children. A lot of them are saying how it couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy," Daily Mial quoted a prison source as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Sara Sharif's father 'scared for his life' after inmates attack and slit his throat with 'tuna can lid'

K-pop superstar Jesu celebrates her 30th birthday today. The South Korean star entered the world of entertainment as a member of Blackpink in 2016 and has come a long way since then. She's now a recognized singer, actor, and fashionista, enjoying a huge fan base worldwide. Watch in for more details!

South Korean Star Jisoo Turns 30

South Korean law enforcement officials Friday (Jan 3) halted attempts to arrest impeached president Yoon Suk-Yeol following a standoff with a military unit inside the presidential residence.
&ldquo;Regarding the execution of the arrest warrant today, it was determined that the execution was effectively impossible due to the ongoing standoff.&nbsp;Concern for the safety of personnel on-site led to the decision to halt the execution,&rdquo; said the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) in a statement.
In what was a police vs army scene, officials from the CIO earlier stormed into the residence but were blocked by &ldquo;a military unit inside&rdquo;, reported Yonhap news agency.
The CIO officials were confronted by security service members and a scuffle broke out.
The Presidential Security Service apparently refused to comply with the arrest warrant.
Seok Dong-hyeon, one of several lawyers on Yoon&rsquo;s legal team, was quoted as saying by news agency Associated Press that the CIO team arrived at the building but it was unlikely they would be able to detain the president.
He also accused the &ldquo;reckless&rdquo; CIO officials of showing an &ldquo;outrageous discard for law.&rdquo;
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">Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end'</a>
Yonhap reported that the Presidential Security Service has said it won&rsquo;t allow the CIO to enter the residence and detain the president.
&ldquo;The execution of a warrant that is illegal and invalid is indeed not lawful,&rdquo; said Yoon Kap-keun, Yoon&rsquo;s lawyer. &ldquo;legal actions will be taken regarding the illegal execution of the warrant,&rdquo; he added.
If CIO officials eventually manage to detain the president, Yoon would become the first leader in the country's history to be arrested while in office.
<h2>CIO issues warning</h2>
Meanwhile, the chief of the CIO, Oh Dong-woon, warned that anybody trying to thwart Yoon's arrest could face prosecution.&nbsp;
<h2>North Korea's rare comment</h2>
North Korea, in a rare comment, said Friday that the South was in &ldquo;chaos&rdquo; and paralysed politically amid the ongoing crisis involving the impeached president.
&ldquo;A detention warrant was issued for the president, paralysing state affairs and further deepening social and political chaos,&rdquo; wrote state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: Seok Dong-hyeon, one of the lawyers of Yoon, said the CIO team arrived at the building but it was unlikely they would be able to detain the president.

South Korean law enforcement officials Friday (Jan 3) halted attempts to arrest impeached president Yoon Suk-Yeol following a standoff with a military unit inside the presidential residence. “Regarding the execution of the arrest warrant today, it was determined that the execution was effectively impossible due to the ongoing standoff. Concern for the safety of personnel on-site led to the decision to halt the execution,” said the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) in a statement. In what was a police vs army scene, officials from the CIO earlier stormed into the residence but were blocked by “a military unit inside”, reported Yonhap news agency. The CIO officials were confronted by security service members and a scuffle broke out. The Presidential Security Service apparently refused to comply with the arrest warrant. Seok Dong-hyeon, one of several lawyers on Yoon’s legal team, was quoted as saying by news agency Associated Press that the CIO team arrived at the building but it was unlikely they would be able to detain the president. He also accused the “reckless” CIO officials of showing an “outrageous discard for law.” Also read: Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest for third day, vows to 'fight to the end' Yonhap reported that the Presidential Security Service has said it won’t allow the CIO to enter the residence and detain the president. “The execution of a warrant that is illegal and invalid is indeed not lawful,” said Yoon Kap-keun, Yoon’s lawyer. “legal actions will be taken regarding the illegal execution of the warrant,” he added. If CIO officials eventually manage to detain the president, Yoon would become the first leader in the country's history to be arrested while in office. CIO issues warning Meanwhile, the chief of the CIO, Oh Dong-woon, warned that anybody trying to thwart Yoon's arrest could face prosecution. North Korea's rare comment North Korea, in a rare comment, said Friday that the South was in “chaos” and paralysed politically amid the ongoing crisis involving the impeached president. “A detention warrant was issued for the president, paralysing state affairs and further deepening social and political chaos,” wrote state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). (With inputs from agencies)

Investigators halt attempt to arrest impeached S Korean prez Yoon after standoff with ‘military unit’

world

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

world news