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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’

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," where 120 commandos dismantled a Syrian underground missile production facility reportedly financed by Iran. The mission was carried out on September 8, 2024. The facility, called "Deep Layer," was located near Masyaf in western Syria, a region known for its strong air defence.
<h2 class="p1">Targeted Facility</h2>
The Deep Layer facility was reportedly constructed after a 2017 Israeli airstrike on an aboveground missile production site.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-new-orleans-attack-updates-israeli-military-kills-hamas-police-chief-and-more-8586402">Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more</a>
The facility was built 70-130 meters into a mountain and was operational by 2021. It was producing up to 300 missiles annually with a range of 300 kilometres. The missiles were allegedly intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gia617-1xqvibot-0hkyz8v7">
DECLASSIFIED: In September 2024, before the fall of the Assad Regime, our soldiers conducted an undercover operation to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground precision missile production site in Syria. Watch exclusive footage from this historic moment. <a href="https://t.co/s0bTDNwx77">pic.twitter.com/s0bTDNwx77</a>
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1874849694012309593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="p1">Operational Details</h2>
Israeli military planned the operation for several years. It gained urgency amid escalating regional tensions. Commandos were flown into Syrian airspace on CH-53 helicopters, escorted by fighter jets and drones. To evade radar and Syrian air defences, the aircraft flew over the Mediterranean and at low altitudes.
Upon reaching the site, diversionary strikes were launched to misdirect Syrian forces. Commandos breached the facility&rsquo;s fortified entrances using forklifts to access critical areas. Explosives were planted along the production line to target machinery used for missile manufacturing. The explosives were remotely detonated by the Israeli commandos.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-police-chief-deputy-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-on-gaza-humanitarian-zone-8585896">Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone</a>
<h2 class="p1">Outcome</h2>
The IAF reported 30 Syrian casualties, while Syrian media claimed 14 deaths and 43 injuries. The operation lasted for almost three hours with all commandos returning safely.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israel declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," a September 2024 mission where 120 commandos destroyed an underground missile facility in Syria

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declassified details of "Operation Many Ways," where 120 commandos dismantled a Syrian underground missile production facility reportedly financed by Iran. The mission was carried out on September 8, 2024. The facility, called "Deep Layer," was located near Masyaf in western Syria, a region known for its strong air defence. Targeted Facility The Deep Layer facility was reportedly constructed after a 2017 Israeli airstrike on an aboveground missile production site. Also read: Top 10 world news: New Orleans attack updates; IDF kills Hamas police chief, and more The facility was built 70-130 meters into a mountain and was operational by 2021. It was producing up to 300 missiles annually with a range of 300 kilometres. The missiles were allegedly intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Assad regime. DECLASSIFIED: In September 2024, before the fall of the Assad Regime, our soldiers conducted an undercover operation to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground precision missile production site in Syria. Watch exclusive footage from this historic moment. pic.twitter.com/s0bTDNwx77 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) January 2, 2025 Operational Details Israeli military planned the operation for several years. It gained urgency amid escalating regional tensions. Commandos were flown into Syrian airspace on CH-53 helicopters, escorted by fighter jets and drones. To evade radar and Syrian air defences, the aircraft flew over the Mediterranean and at low altitudes. Upon reaching the site, diversionary strikes were launched to misdirect Syrian forces. Commandos breached the facility’s fortified entrances using forklifts to access critical areas. Explosives were planted along the production line to target machinery used for missile manufacturing. The explosives were remotely detonated by the Israeli commandos. Also read: Hamas police chief, deputy killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza humanitarian zone Outcome The IAF reported 30 Syrian casualties, while Syrian media claimed 14 deaths and 43 injuries. The operation lasted for almost three hours with all commandos returning safely. (With inputs from agencies)

'Operation Many Ways': Israel declassifies details of strike on Iran-backed Syrian missile facility

China HMPV Virus Symptoms: Videos and social media posts have emerged online claiming to show an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, sparking concerns worldwide. Visuals purportedly showing overcrowded hospitals are making rounds on the internet, claiming there's a surge in outbreaks of HMPV, influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and COVID-19. Some unconfirmed posts even claimed that China had declared a state of emergency as the disease allegedly spreads.
<h2>China tight-lipped</h2>
Notably, there is no official confirmation or denial yet of an outbreak.
Posts shared on X were accompanied by a &lsquo;community note&rsquo; generated by the social media platform, saying there was no information available to back up the claim.
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gev070-7e03mpvs-ghpo74es">
⚠️ BREAKING: China 🇨🇳 Declares State of Emergency as Epidemic Overwhelms Hospitals and Crematoriums. Multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, are spreading rapidly across China. <a href="https://t.co/GRV3XYgrYX">pic.twitter.com/GRV3XYgrYX</a>
&mdash; SARS‑CoV‑2 (COVID-19) (@COVID19_disease) <a href="https://twitter.com/COVID19_disease/status/1874481684122607783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&ldquo;There is no information to back up the claim that China has declared a state of emergency over epidemics overwhelming the hospitals and crematoriums in the country,&rdquo; the note said.
It also carried a link to the official website of the National Health Commission of the People&rsquo;s Republic of China.
At the time of writing this, that website had no new information about alleged outbreak and emergency measures being taken by the government.
<h2>What is HMPV?</h2>
Human Metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus which can affect individuals of all age groups, especially children and senior citizens and those with weak immune systems.
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention first identified the virus in 2001.
<h2>Symptoms of HMPV</h2>
The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of flu and respiratory infections.
In some cases, the virus can cause bronchitis or pneumonia and common signs include cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath.
The incubation period for the virus is generally between three and six days.
<h2>Precautions to take. Is there a treatment for HMPV?</h2>
HMPV spreads through coughing and sneezing, so wearing a mask can help avoid transmission.
We should wash our hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds.
Avoiding contact with people with illness is highly recommended.
If you are feeling unwell, it&rsquo;s best to stay at home.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-dealing-with-new-epidemic-five-years-after-covid-19-claim-reports-8586676" rel="dofollow">Also read: China dealing with new epidemic five years after Covid-19, claim reports</a>
As of now, there is no treatment or vaccines available for the HMPV. Only severe cases might require hospitalisation.
(With inputs from agencies)

China HMPV Virus Symptoms: In some cases, the virus can cause bronchitis or pneumonia and common signs include cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath. 

China HMPV Virus Symptoms: Videos and social media posts have emerged online claiming to show an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, sparking concerns worldwide. Visuals purportedly showing overcrowded hospitals are making rounds on the internet, claiming there's a surge in outbreaks of HMPV, influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and COVID-19. Some unconfirmed posts even claimed that China had declared a state of emergency as the disease allegedly spreads. China tight-lipped Notably, there is no official confirmation or denial yet of an outbreak. Posts shared on X were accompanied by a ‘community note’ generated by the social media platform, saying there was no information available to back up the claim. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. ⚠️ BREAKING: China 🇨🇳 Declares State of Emergency as Epidemic Overwhelms Hospitals and Crematoriums. Multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, are spreading rapidly across China. pic.twitter.com/GRV3XYgrYX — SARS‑CoV‑2 (COVID-19) (@COVID19_disease) January 1, 2025 “There is no information to back up the claim that China has declared a state of emergency over epidemics overwhelming the hospitals and crematoriums in the country,” the note said. It also carried a link to the official website of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China. At the time of writing this, that website had no new information about alleged outbreak and emergency measures being taken by the government. What is HMPV? Human Metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus which can affect individuals of all age groups, especially children and senior citizens and those with weak immune systems. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention first identified the virus in 2001. Symptoms of HMPV The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of flu and respiratory infections. In some cases, the virus can cause bronchitis or pneumonia and common signs include cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath. The incubation period for the virus is generally between three and six days. Precautions to take. Is there a treatment for HMPV? HMPV spreads through coughing and sneezing, so wearing a mask can help avoid transmission. We should wash our hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds. Avoiding contact with people with illness is highly recommended. If you are feeling unwell, it’s best to stay at home. Also read: China dealing with new epidemic five years after Covid-19, claim reports As of now, there is no treatment or vaccines available for the HMPV. Only severe cases might require hospitalisation. (With inputs from agencies)

HMPV outbreak in China? Amid viral videos and govt ambiguity, know symptoms and precautions

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!

USA News: FBI's Hunt Intensifies For Suspect Behind Washington DC Pipe Bombs

A remarkable discovery in Oxfordshire, UK, reveals hundreds of dinosaur footprints, providing new insights into prehistoric life. These ancient traces offer valuable information about the species that once roamed the area millions of years ago.

Dinosaur Footprints Discovered In UK Quarry; Four Tracks Were Made By Gigantic Cetiosaurus

Former British deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said Thursday he is stepping down from his role as president of Meta's global affairs and will be replaced by Republican stalwart Joel Kaplan.
Clegg joined Meta in late 2018 as the company grappled with the fallout of the Cambridge Analytica privacy scandal.
Clegg ceding his job to Kaplan, who served as deputy chief of staff for policy under then-president George W. Bush from 2006-2009, comes as Republican Donald Trump is set to return to the White House.
"As a new year begins, I have come to the view that this is the right time for me to move on," Clegg said in a Facebook post.
"I hope I have played some role in seeking to bridge the very different worlds of tech and politics &ndash; worlds that will continue to interact in unpredictable ways across the globe."
Clegg referred to his years as Meta as an adventure, saying that when he arrived at the company it was undergoing rapid growth that brought with it scrutiny and controversy.
"My time at the company coincided with a significant resetting of the relationship between 'big tech' and the societal pressures manifested in new laws, institutions and norms affecting the sector," Clegg wrote.
Clegg portrayed Kaplan as the right person at the right time to replace him atop the Meta policy team, saying Kaplan is "ideally placed to shape the company's strategy as societal and political expectations around technology continue to evolve."
Kaplan joined Facebook in 2011 as vice president of US public policy and went on to become second in command on the global policy team.
Clegg said he will remain at Meta for several months while handing over the reins to Kaplan.
"I'm grateful for everything you've done for Meta and the world these past seven years," Meta co-founder and chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said in a reply posted below Clegg's announcement on Facebook.
"I'm excited for Joel to step into this role next given his deep experience and insight leading our policy work for many years."
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 | Clegg joined Meta, Facebook's parent company, in late 2018 as the company grappled with the fallout of the Cambridge Analytica privacy scandal.

Former British deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said Thursday he is stepping down from his role as president of Meta's global affairs and will be replaced by Republican stalwart Joel Kaplan. Clegg joined Meta in late 2018 as the company grappled with the fallout of the Cambridge Analytica privacy scandal. Clegg ceding his job to Kaplan, who served as deputy chief of staff for policy under then-president George W. Bush from 2006-2009, comes as Republican Donald Trump is set to return to the White House. "As a new year begins, I have come to the view that this is the right time for me to move on," Clegg said in a Facebook post. "I hope I have played some role in seeking to bridge the very different worlds of tech and politics – worlds that will continue to interact in unpredictable ways across the globe." Clegg referred to his years as Meta as an adventure, saying that when he arrived at the company it was undergoing rapid growth that brought with it scrutiny and controversy. "My time at the company coincided with a significant resetting of the relationship between 'big tech' and the societal pressures manifested in new laws, institutions and norms affecting the sector," Clegg wrote. Clegg portrayed Kaplan as the right person at the right time to replace him atop the Meta policy team, saying Kaplan is "ideally placed to shape the company's strategy as societal and political expectations around technology continue to evolve." Kaplan joined Facebook in 2011 as vice president of US public policy and went on to become second in command on the global policy team. Clegg said he will remain at Meta for several months while handing over the reins to Kaplan. "I'm grateful for everything you've done for Meta and the world these past seven years," Meta co-founder and chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said in a reply posted below Clegg's announcement on Facebook. "I'm excited for Joel to step into this role next given his deep experience and insight leading our policy work for many years." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ex-UK deputy PM Nick Clegg to part ways with Meta global policy team

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!

Delhi Shivers In Cold Wave; Below Freezing Temperatures In Many Areas Of Kashmir, Ladakh

Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is due to meet the French and German foreign ministers on Friday, in the highest-level visit by major Western powers under the new authorities in Damascus.
Top French diplomat Jean-Noel Barrot arrived in the Syrian capital on Friday, AFP journalists said. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock joined him later, a ministry source told AFP, for talks on behalf of the European Union.
Sharaa, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led the offensive that toppled Syria's longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in early December.
The HTS-dominated interim authorities now face the daunting task of rebuilding state institutions, with growing calls to ensure an inclusive transition and guarantee minority rights.
Barrot, in a post on X, said: "Together, France and Germany stand alongside the Syrian people, in all their diversity."
He added that the two European powers wanted to promote a "peaceful transition".
In Damascus, he expressed hope for a "sovereign, stable and peaceful" Syria.
It was also a "hope that the aspirations of all Syrians can be realised", he added, "but it is a fragile hope".
In a statement, Baerbock said Germany wanted to help Syria become a "safe home" for all its people, and a "functioning state, with full control over its territory".
She said the visit was a "clear signal" to Damascus of the possibility for a new relationship between Syria and Germany, and Europe more broadly.
Despite "scepticism" about HTS -- which is rooted in the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda and is designated a terrorist organisation by numerous governments -- Baerbock said that "we must not miss the opportunity to support the Syrian people at this important crossroads".
She also asked the new regime to avoid "acts of vengeance against groups within the population", to avoid a long delay before elections, and to avert attempts to Islamise the judicial and education systems.
"This must be our common objective," she added.
<h2>Prison visit</h2>
The two ministers also plan to visit the notorious Saydnaya prison, not far from the capital.
Saydnaya was the site of extrajudicial executions, torture and forced disappearances, and epitomised the atrocities committed against Assad's opponents.
Since his ouster, a bevy of foreign envoys have travelled to Damascus to meet with the country's new leaders.
France and Germany had both already sent lower-level delegations last month.
At the start of his visit, Barrot met with representatives of Syria's Christian communities.
Diplomatic sources said Barrot told the Christian leaders that France was committed to a pluralistic Syria with equal rights for all, including minority groups.
Syria's civil war -- which started in 2011, sparked by the Assad government's brutal repression of democracy protests -- saw Germany, France and a host of other countries shutter their diplomatic missions in Damascus.
The conflict killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions and left Syria fragmented and ravaged.
The new authorities have called for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Syria under Assad to allow for reconstruction.
Paris is due to host an international summit on Syria later this month, following a similar meeting in December in Jordan.
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 | Sharaa, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led the offensive that toppled Syria's longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in early December.

Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is due to meet the French and German foreign ministers on Friday, in the highest-level visit by major Western powers under the new authorities in Damascus. Top French diplomat Jean-Noel Barrot arrived in the Syrian capital on Friday, AFP journalists said. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock joined him later, a ministry source told AFP, for talks on behalf of the European Union. Sharaa, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led the offensive that toppled Syria's longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in early December. The HTS-dominated interim authorities now face the daunting task of rebuilding state institutions, with growing calls to ensure an inclusive transition and guarantee minority rights. Barrot, in a post on X, said: "Together, France and Germany stand alongside the Syrian people, in all their diversity." He added that the two European powers wanted to promote a "peaceful transition". In Damascus, he expressed hope for a "sovereign, stable and peaceful" Syria. It was also a "hope that the aspirations of all Syrians can be realised", he added, "but it is a fragile hope". In a statement, Baerbock said Germany wanted to help Syria become a "safe home" for all its people, and a "functioning state, with full control over its territory". She said the visit was a "clear signal" to Damascus of the possibility for a new relationship between Syria and Germany, and Europe more broadly. Despite "scepticism" about HTS -- which is rooted in the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda and is designated a terrorist organisation by numerous governments -- Baerbock said that "we must not miss the opportunity to support the Syrian people at this important crossroads". She also asked the new regime to avoid "acts of vengeance against groups within the population", to avoid a long delay before elections, and to avert attempts to Islamise the judicial and education systems. "This must be our common objective," she added. Prison visit The two ministers also plan to visit the notorious Saydnaya prison, not far from the capital. Saydnaya was the site of extrajudicial executions, torture and forced disappearances, and epitomised the atrocities committed against Assad's opponents. Since his ouster, a bevy of foreign envoys have travelled to Damascus to meet with the country's new leaders. France and Germany had both already sent lower-level delegations last month. At the start of his visit, Barrot met with representatives of Syria's Christian communities. Diplomatic sources said Barrot told the Christian leaders that France was committed to a pluralistic Syria with equal rights for all, including minority groups. Syria's civil war -- which started in 2011, sparked by the Assad government's brutal repression of democracy protests -- saw Germany, France and a host of other countries shutter their diplomatic missions in Damascus. The conflict killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions and left Syria fragmented and ravaged. The new authorities have called for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Syria under Assad to allow for reconstruction. Paris is due to host an international summit on Syria later this month, following a similar meeting in December in Jordan. 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.

European diplomats visit Syria for talks with de facto leader Sharaa

A US Army veteran who allegedly went to Lebanon and Syria to try to join Hezbollah has been indicted for attempting to support a "terrorist" organization, the Justice Department said Thursday.

Ex-US Army serviceman charged with terrorism

A small aircraft crashed into a building in Southern California, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives. Watch to know more.

Small plane crashes into California building, claims two lives

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.

HMPV: What you should know?

U.S. President Joe Biden has stated that the suspect in the New Year's Day attack in New Orleans had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and acted alone. The driver, identified as Shamsud Din Jabbar A, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Texas, drove his truck into a crowd celebrating New Year's, killing at least 15 people and injuring over 30. Watch in for more details!

Bourbon Street Attack: FBI Recovers Three Phones, Two IEDs

Law enforcement officials have identified a U.S. Army soldier from Colorado as a likely person inside a Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. 
This incident was initially thought of as a terror attack, as it took place hours after the New Orleans mass carnage on Thursday. The FBI stated that it has yet to uncover any conclusive connection between the tragic New Year's Day truck attack in New Orleans, which claimed 15 lives. Watch in for more details!

Cybertruck Explosion Outside Trump's Hotel Probably A Suicide?

US: FBI's Hunt Intensifies For Suspect Behind Washington DC Pipe Bombs

The suspect of the New Orleans attack had expressed extreme religious views nearly a year before he allegedly killed 14 people and injured dozens.
The accused, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who drove his pickup truck with an Islamic State (IS) flag through a crowd on New Year&rsquo;s Day, posted his views through recordings on SoundCloud, according to a Guardian report.
On the platform, an account under the name of Jabbar posted three audios of about 20 minutes detailing his extreme religious views on music, sex, intoxicants and other pleasures, which he believed were evils that deserved destruction.
The voice in the recordings matched that of Jabbar&rsquo;s in the video promoting his real-estate business. Jabbar was shot dead by police following Wednesday&rsquo;s (Jan 1) attack on Bourbon Street.
The extreme notions of IS or those who sympathise with the terrorist group have been widely rejected by Muslim scholars. Jabbar had previously been accused of engaging in acts which he condemned in the audios, including spousal abuse and drunk driving.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-attacker-had-detonator-in-truck-planted-bombs-in-ice-coolers-says-biden-8586921" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">New Orleans attacker had detonator in truck, planted bombs in ice coolers: Biden</a>
&ldquo;His crime is the latest example of why cruel, merciless, bottom-feeding extremist groups have been rejected by the overwhelming majority of the Muslim world &ndash; from Islamic scholars to mosques, to organizations and to individual Muslims,&rdquo; the Council on American-Islamic Relations said in a statement on Thursday (Jan 2).
<h2>Attacker's extreme religious views</h2>
The recordings of Jabbar that surfaced recently have revealed that he had been openly expressing extremist religious views by about February 2024. He had been following various religious accounts on the platform.
In one of the recordings, he claimed that poetry, like rapping, can lure people into &ldquo;things that God has made forbidden to us: the intoxicants.&rdquo; He added that &ldquo;music entices us to illicit sex, vulgarity, violence, betrayal, arrogance, burglary, cheating, ingratitude to our spouses or others in general,&rdquo; and also suggested that music was &ldquo;Satan&rsquo;s voice.&rdquo;
The 42-year-old US-born citizen, who recently lived in Houston, also said that one particular rap song was responsible for three murders in his neighbourhood shortly after it was released in the early 2000s.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-truck-attack-biden-says-shamsud-din-jabbar-posted-isis-inspired-videos-hours-before-rampage-8584220" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">New Orleans truck attack: Biden says Shamsud-Din Jabbar posted ISIS-inspired videos hours before rampage</a>
In another recording, he said, &ldquo;Allah &hellip; says, &lsquo;Save those who believe and do righteous deeds &hellip; These will have the good tidings of paradise with all its gifts and pleasures, without there ever being a break in them.&rdquo;
President Joe Biden had said that during the briefing, the FBI informed him and his aides that &ldquo;mere hours before the attack,&rdquo; Jabbar had &ldquo;posted videos on social media indicating that he was inspired by IS, expressing a desire to kill&rdquo;.
<h2>What happened in New Orleans attack?</h2>
On Wednesday (Jan 1), a man, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, intentionally rammed a vehicle into a crowd during the New Year&rsquo;s celebrations in New Orleans's Bourbon Street. The attack killed at least 14 people and injured dozens of others.&nbsp;
The FBI has confirmed that the attack was an act of terrorism. The suspect, a US citizen from Texas, died in a shootout with police.
(With inputs from agencies)

On the SoundCloud platform, Jabbar posted his extreme religious views on music, sex, intoxicants and other pleasures, which he believed were evils that deserved destruction.

The suspect of the New Orleans attack had expressed extreme religious views nearly a year before he allegedly killed 14 people and injured dozens. The accused, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who drove his pickup truck with an Islamic State (IS) flag through a crowd on New Year’s Day, posted his views through recordings on SoundCloud, according to a Guardian report. On the platform, an account under the name of Jabbar posted three audios of about 20 minutes detailing his extreme religious views on music, sex, intoxicants and other pleasures, which he believed were evils that deserved destruction. The voice in the recordings matched that of Jabbar’s in the video promoting his real-estate business. Jabbar was shot dead by police following Wednesday’s (Jan 1) attack on Bourbon Street. The extreme notions of IS or those who sympathise with the terrorist group have been widely rejected by Muslim scholars. Jabbar had previously been accused of engaging in acts which he condemned in the audios, including spousal abuse and drunk driving. Also read | New Orleans attacker had detonator in truck, planted bombs in ice coolers: Biden “His crime is the latest example of why cruel, merciless, bottom-feeding extremist groups have been rejected by the overwhelming majority of the Muslim world – from Islamic scholars to mosques, to organizations and to individual Muslims,” the Council on American-Islamic Relations said in a statement on Thursday (Jan 2). Attacker's extreme religious views The recordings of Jabbar that surfaced recently have revealed that he had been openly expressing extremist religious views by about February 2024. He had been following various religious accounts on the platform. In one of the recordings, he claimed that poetry, like rapping, can lure people into “things that God has made forbidden to us: the intoxicants.” He added that “music entices us to illicit sex, vulgarity, violence, betrayal, arrogance, burglary, cheating, ingratitude to our spouses or others in general,” and also suggested that music was “Satan’s voice.” The 42-year-old US-born citizen, who recently lived in Houston, also said that one particular rap song was responsible for three murders in his neighbourhood shortly after it was released in the early 2000s. Also read | New Orleans truck attack: Biden says Shamsud-Din Jabbar posted ISIS-inspired videos hours before rampage In another recording, he said, “Allah … says, ‘Save those who believe and do righteous deeds … These will have the good tidings of paradise with all its gifts and pleasures, without there ever being a break in them.” President Joe Biden had said that during the briefing, the FBI informed him and his aides that “mere hours before the attack,” Jabbar had “posted videos on social media indicating that he was inspired by IS, expressing a desire to kill”. What happened in New Orleans attack? On Wednesday (Jan 1), a man, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, intentionally rammed a vehicle into a crowd during the New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans's Bourbon Street. The attack killed at least 14 people and injured dozens of others. The FBI has confirmed that the attack was an act of terrorism. The suspect, a US citizen from Texas, died in a shootout with police. (With inputs from agencies)

New Orleans attacker’s recordings reveal extreme religious views on music, sex, intoxicants

The wife of Matthew Livelsberger, who blew up a Tesla Cybertruck packed with fireworks outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday (January 1), broke up with him six days ago before he killed himself inside the truck, American media reported on Thursday.&nbsp;
Livelsberger, a Green Beret (member of US Army special forces), shot himself in the head just before detonation. The explosion caused minor injuries to seven people. Livelsberger was 37 at the time of his death.
<h2>An argument with wife over apparent infidelity</h2>
Citing sources, a report by the New York Post late Thursday said that Livelsberger left his Colorado Springs home on December 26 following an argument with his wife over apparent infidelity.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-turo-the-car-sharing-app-used-in-new-orleans-attack-and-cybertruck-blast-in-las-vegas-8585327" rel="dofollow">What is Turo, the car-sharing app used in New Orleans attack and Cybertruck blast in Las Vegas?</a>
Sources said that Livelsberger's wife told him that she knew he had been cheating on her. The two (Livelsberger and his wife) were parents to a baby girl.&nbsp;
The report said that with this development, investigators were now probing whether the 37-year-old's motive was personal rather than political as previously considered given the location of the detonation and the choice of the vehicle.
Earlier, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had been looking into the possibility that the bombing was political as the explosion happened outside President-elect Donald Trump's hotel and inside a vehicle made by Trump's close ally Elon Musk.
But, this would not be the case as Livelsberger was a staunch Trump supporter.&nbsp;
<h2>'If Livelsberger had used a normal vehicle...'</h2>
Sources also told the New York Post that if Livelsberger had used a normal vehicle (instead of a Cybertruck), the explosion would have likely taken out the glass doors of the Trump International Hotel and possibly the lobby- potentially killing innocent bystanders.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-matthew-livelsberger-suspect-in-cybertruck-explosion-in-las-vegas-8585723" rel="dofollow">Who is Matthew Livelsberger, suspect in cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas?</a>
Following the incident, Elon Musk said in a post on X, "The evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack. Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards. Not even the glass doors of the lobby were broken."
<h2>The charred items found inside the Cybertruck</h2>
Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, a government official said that Livelsberger had recently returned from an overseas military assignment in Germany and was on approved leave when he died.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-terror-attack-fbi-says-shamsud-din-jabbar-acted-solo-no-definitive-link-to-las-vegas-explosion-8586486" rel="dofollow">New Orleans attack: FBI says Shamsud-Din Jabbar acted solo, no 'definitive link' to Cybertruck explosion</a>
Following an argument with his wife, Livelsberger rented the Cybertruck and bought the fireworks and weapons.
Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill said that among the charred items found inside the truck were a handgun at the 37-year-old's feet, another firearm, many fireworks, a military ID, credit cards, an iPhone, and a smartwatch. 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Tesla Cybertruck explosion occurred outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. The explosion caused minor injuries to seven people.

The wife of Matthew Livelsberger, who blew up a Tesla Cybertruck packed with fireworks outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday (January 1), broke up with him six days ago before he killed himself inside the truck, American media reported on Thursday. Livelsberger, a Green Beret (member of US Army special forces), shot himself in the head just before detonation. The explosion caused minor injuries to seven people. Livelsberger was 37 at the time of his death. An argument with wife over apparent infidelity Citing sources, a report by the New York Post late Thursday said that Livelsberger left his Colorado Springs home on December 26 following an argument with his wife over apparent infidelity. Also read | What is Turo, the car-sharing app used in New Orleans attack and Cybertruck blast in Las Vegas? Sources said that Livelsberger's wife told him that she knew he had been cheating on her. The two (Livelsberger and his wife) were parents to a baby girl. The report said that with this development, investigators were now probing whether the 37-year-old's motive was personal rather than political as previously considered given the location of the detonation and the choice of the vehicle. Earlier, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had been looking into the possibility that the bombing was political as the explosion happened outside President-elect Donald Trump's hotel and inside a vehicle made by Trump's close ally Elon Musk. But, this would not be the case as Livelsberger was a staunch Trump supporter. 'If Livelsberger had used a normal vehicle...' Sources also told the New York Post that if Livelsberger had used a normal vehicle (instead of a Cybertruck), the explosion would have likely taken out the glass doors of the Trump International Hotel and possibly the lobby- potentially killing innocent bystanders. Also read | Who is Matthew Livelsberger, suspect in cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas? Following the incident, Elon Musk said in a post on X, "The evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack. Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards. Not even the glass doors of the lobby were broken." The charred items found inside the Cybertruck Speaking to the news agency Associated Press, a government official said that Livelsberger had recently returned from an overseas military assignment in Germany and was on approved leave when he died. Also read | New Orleans attack: FBI says Shamsud-Din Jabbar acted solo, no 'definitive link' to Cybertruck explosion Following an argument with his wife, Livelsberger rented the Cybertruck and bought the fireworks and weapons. Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill said that among the charred items found inside the truck were a handgun at the 37-year-old's feet, another firearm, many fireworks, a military ID, credit cards, an iPhone, and a smartwatch. (With inputs from agencies)

Cybertruck blast in Las Vegas: Suspect's wife broke up with him days before explosion, says report

South Korea political crisis: Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol resists arrest after six-hour standoff. Watch in for more details!

South Korea political crisis: Impeached Prez Yoon' defies arrest warrant

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has opened a new front of attack against British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, this time accusing him of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when Starmer was the head of the country's prosecution service.
In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/free-tommy-robinson-elon-musk-demands-release-of-jailed-uk-far-right-leader-slams-pm-starmer-8586433" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Free Tommy Robinson&rsquo;: Elon Musk demands release of jailed UK far-right leader; slams PM Starmer</a>
"Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added. For those who don't know, the answer is Starmer.&nbsp;
Apart from Musk, British lawmakers including former prime minister Liz Truss and author JK Rowling also condemned the crimes being committed by rape gangs.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
No UK government inquiry for the gang rape of innocent little girls, but &pound;22M spent on an obviously violent lunatic. Shame, shame, shame. <a href="https://t.co/PwN6lL9w3u">https://t.co/PwN6lL9w3u</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1875028823173177816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

"The horrific failings on rape gangs show the complete lack of accountability in British criminal justice. The proper role of Lord Chancellor needs to be restored (to its pre-2005 state), and the judiciary should be accountable to them," Truss said in a post on X on Wednesday.&nbsp;
<h2>The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK</h2>
For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men.&nbsp;
Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-ive-always-liked-h1-b-donald-trump-backs-elon-musk-amid-h-1b-visa-dispute-8574488" rel="dofollow">'I've always liked H1-B': Trump backs Elon Musk amid H-1B visa dispute</a>
"Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X.
<h2>The Rotherham scandal</h2>
The scandal in Rotherham is perhaps one of the world's worst sexual exploitation scandals involving girls as young as 12 years old.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wow <a href="https://t.co/T6QYvWcsGf">https://t.co/T6QYvWcsGf</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1874963264112849350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

According to British media, an inquiry into the Rotherham scandal found that 1,400 girls were sexually abused by grooming gangs from 1997 to 2013.
(With inputs from agencies)

In a series of posts on X, Elon Musk criticised the Keir Starmer-led government in the UK for not launching an inquiry for the gang rape of "innocent little girls."

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has opened a new front of attack against British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, this time accusing him of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when Starmer was the head of the country's prosecution service. In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects." Also read | ‘Free Tommy Robinson’: Elon Musk demands release of jailed UK far-right leader; slams PM Starmer "Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added. For those who don't know, the answer is Starmer. Apart from Musk, British lawmakers including former prime minister Liz Truss and author JK Rowling also condemned the crimes being committed by rape gangs. No UK government inquiry for the gang rape of innocent little girls, but £22M spent on an obviously violent lunatic. Shame, shame, shame. https://t.co/PwN6lL9w3u — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 3, 2025 "The horrific failings on rape gangs show the complete lack of accountability in British criminal justice. The proper role of Lord Chancellor needs to be restored (to its pre-2005 state), and the judiciary should be accountable to them," Truss said in a post on X on Wednesday. The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men. Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. Also read | 'I've always liked H1-B': Trump backs Elon Musk amid H-1B visa dispute "Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X. The Rotherham scandal The scandal in Rotherham is perhaps one of the world's worst sexual exploitation scandals involving girls as young as 12 years old. Wow https://t.co/T6QYvWcsGf — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 2, 2025 According to British media, an inquiry into the Rotherham scandal found that 1,400 girls were sexually abused by grooming gangs from 1997 to 2013. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk accuses UK PM Keir Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice

India on Thursday announced assistance of USD 500,000 to the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu to help it deal with the destruction caused by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake last month.
New Delhi conveyed to Vanuatu its readiness to extend all possible support to people of the country in this time of "difficulty".
The earthquake struck near Vanuatu's coast in the South Pacific Ocean on December 17 causing major destruction and loss of lives.
"As a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Vanuatu, the government of India extends a relief assistance of USD 500,000 to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.
It said India has firmly stood by Vanuatu during times of difficulty and devastation caused by natural disasters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescue-efforts-intensify-as-vanuatu-battles-aftermath-of-deadly-earthquake-784925" rel="dofollow">Also read: Rescue efforts intensify as Vanuatu battles aftermath of deadly earthquake</a>
"An important pillar of India's Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2019, is disaster risk reduction and management," the MEA said.
India is committed to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and continues to be a responsible and steadfast responder in the region, it said.
"India extended its deep condolences to the Government and the people of Vanuatu for the damage and destruction caused by this unprecedented disaster and conveyed its readiness to extend all possible support and assistance in this time of difficulty," the MEA said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | The  7.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu's coast in the South Pacific Ocean on December 17 causing major destruction and loss of lives.

India on Thursday announced assistance of USD 500,000 to the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu to help it deal with the destruction caused by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake last month. New Delhi conveyed to Vanuatu its readiness to extend all possible support to people of the country in this time of "difficulty". The earthquake struck near Vanuatu's coast in the South Pacific Ocean on December 17 causing major destruction and loss of lives. "As a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Vanuatu, the government of India extends a relief assistance of USD 500,000 to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. It said India has firmly stood by Vanuatu during times of difficulty and devastation caused by natural disasters. Also read: Rescue efforts intensify as Vanuatu battles aftermath of deadly earthquake "An important pillar of India's Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2019, is disaster risk reduction and management," the MEA said. India is committed to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and continues to be a responsible and steadfast responder in the region, it said. "India extended its deep condolences to the Government and the people of Vanuatu for the damage and destruction caused by this unprecedented disaster and conveyed its readiness to extend all possible support and assistance in this time of difficulty," the MEA said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India declares $500,000 aid for quake-hit Vanuatu

Bourbon Street Attack: FBI Says New Orleans Attacker Acted Alone

Israel has now bombed Syrian Army positions south of Aleppo. Residents reported hearing huge explosions in the area, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the strikes targeted defense and research facilities. The Observatory added that at least seven massive explosions were heard, resulting from an Israeli airstrike on defense factories south of Aleppo. The IDF has also confirmed that dozens of its troops were flown into Syria in September to destroy an underground missile Factory funded by Iran. Watch in for more details!

Israel Confirms Syria Raid On Iran-Funded Missile Factory In September

South Korean investigators are currently attempting to arrest impeached president Yoon Suk-yeol at his residence over his failed martial law bid but are reportedly being blocked by the security forces. Watch in for more details!

South Korean Investigators Attempt To Arrest Impeached President

Russia and Ukraine continue to launch drone attacks against each other. According to their daily military briefings, the Russian air defense unit shot down over 30 drones from Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia Shoots Down Over 30 Ukrainian Drones

New Orleans Terror Attack: Bourbon Street Reopens In Less Than 36 Hours After The Attack

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