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The Frenchman found guilty of drugging and raping his then-wife and soliciting dozens of men to do the same for more than a decade will not appeal his conviction, his lawyer said Monday.
Dominique&nbsp;Pelicot&nbsp;was convicted and jailed for 20 years earlier this month after a trial that horrified France and beyond, while 50 co-defendants were also convicted and handed various sentences of between three and 15 years.
Gisele&nbsp;Pelicot&nbsp;was hailed as a hero for her courage and dignity throughout the three-month trial. 
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plane-crash-8578104" aria-label="South Korea plane crash: Govt orders emergency airline inspections after Jeju Air disaster claims 179 lives">South Korea plane crash: Govt orders emergency airline inspections after Jeju Air disaster claims 179 lives</a>
"Dominique Pelicot has&nbsp;taken the decision to not appeal the verdict," his lawyer Beatrice Zavarro told AFP and Franceinfo. 
An appeal "would force Gisele (Pelicot) to undergo a new ordeal, new confrontations, which&nbsp;Dominique&nbsp;Pelicot&nbsp;refuses" to do, Zavarro said, adding that "it is time to finish judicially".
Monday is the last day for the defendants to file appeals, and 17 of&nbsp;Pelicot's co-defendants have already done so, according to Zavarro.
The convicted ringleader had been "astonished to see these appeals, especially (from) individuals who in the dock apologised to Gisele&nbsp;Pelicot," Zavarro said. 
"It seems to me that filing an appeal contradicts those words."
Following the guilty verdicts at the end of December, one of Gisele&nbsp;Pelicot's lawyers said she had no fear of a new trial.
"If it were to happen, she has already indicated to us that she would face it -- if she is healthy, obviously, since she is a lady who is now 72," Stephane Babonneau told France Inter radio.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/un-report-highlights-extreme-weather-and-heat-fueled-by-climate-change-in-2024-8578072" aria-label="UN report highlights extreme weather and heat fueled by climate change in 2024">UN report highlights extreme weather and heat fueled by climate change in 2024</a>
"In any case, she has no fear of it, that is what she told us."
Gisele&nbsp;Pelicot&nbsp;has been praised for refusing to waive her right to a closed trial, saying she wanted to turn the tables on the shame associated with rape from victims to perpetrators.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World: Gisele Pelicot has been praised for refusing to waive her right to a closed trial, saying she wanted to turn the tables on the shame associated with rape from victims to perpetrators.

The Frenchman found guilty of drugging and raping his then-wife and soliciting dozens of men to do the same for more than a decade will not appeal his conviction, his lawyer said Monday. Dominique Pelicot was convicted and jailed for 20 years earlier this month after a trial that horrified France and beyond, while 50 co-defendants were also convicted and handed various sentences of between three and 15 years. Gisele Pelicot was hailed as a hero for her courage and dignity throughout the three-month trial. Also read | South Korea plane crash: Govt orders emergency airline inspections after Jeju Air disaster claims 179 lives "Dominique Pelicot has taken the decision to not appeal the verdict," his lawyer Beatrice Zavarro told AFP and Franceinfo. An appeal "would force Gisele (Pelicot) to undergo a new ordeal, new confrontations, which Dominique Pelicot refuses" to do, Zavarro said, adding that "it is time to finish judicially". Monday is the last day for the defendants to file appeals, and 17 of Pelicot's co-defendants have already done so, according to Zavarro. The convicted ringleader had been "astonished to see these appeals, especially (from) individuals who in the dock apologised to Gisele Pelicot," Zavarro said. "It seems to me that filing an appeal contradicts those words." Following the guilty verdicts at the end of December, one of Gisele Pelicot's lawyers said she had no fear of a new trial. "If it were to happen, she has already indicated to us that she would face it -- if she is healthy, obviously, since she is a lady who is now 72," Stephane Babonneau told France Inter radio. Also read | UN report highlights extreme weather and heat fueled by climate change in 2024 "In any case, she has no fear of it, that is what she told us." Gisele Pelicot has been praised for refusing to waive her right to a closed trial, saying she wanted to turn the tables on the shame associated with rape from victims to perpetrators. 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.

France mass rape: Dominique Pelicot has decided not to appeal, says lawyer

South Korea's worst plane crash involved a Boeing 737-800 with 181 people on board. The tragic accident highlights the challenges of air travel safety and the ongoing efforts to prevent such disasters in the future. This devastating event has left the nation in shock as investigations into the cause continue.

South Korea's Plane Crash: Biden, 'Deeply Saddened' By Korea Crash, Offers Assistance

Following the tragic plane crash in Azerbaijan, Russia has vowed to hold those responsible accountable. The incident has raised serious concerns about aviation safety and prompted immediate action from Russian authorities to ensure justice is served.

Azerbaijan Plane crash: Russia will identify those guilty

In a Damascus suburb, one of the world’s oldest synagogues stands as a testament to history and resilience, despite being largely destroyed during Syria's 13-year civil war. The few remaining Jews in Syria can now visit the site, where regional pilgrims once gathered for prayer.  Watch to know more!

Syria: Jews Visit Ruined 2,700-year-old Damascus Synagogue Amid Post-Assad Hopes

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is awake and recovering following successful prostate removal surgery at Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, his office announced late Sunday. The statement added that he has been transferred to a fortified underground recovery ward.

Israel: PM Benjamin Netanyahu Undergoes Successful Prostate Surgery

South Korea's Worst Plane Crash: The Boeing 737-800 Flight Had 181 People On Board

South Korea's acting president Choi Sang-mok on Monday (December 30) ordered an urgent safety review of the nation's airline operations following a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plane-crash-passengers-heartbreaking-text-minutes-before-crash-8575604" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jeju Air</a> crash on Sunday that claimed the lives of 179 people. The government has also announced plans to conduct a separate inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating within the country.
An audit will be carried out on all 101 aircraft currently in domestic service, with US investigators&nbsp;and representatives from Boeing&nbsp;assisting in the investigation.
<h2>Exhaustive inspection essential to overhaul the aviation safety system: Acting president Choi Sang-mok</h2>
Choi Sang-mok, who assumed the presidency just two days before the incident, stressed the need for a comprehensive review of aviation safety protocols. He said that an exhaustive inspection is essential to overhaul the aviation safety system and move towards a safer Republic of Korea.
The accident, South Korea's worst domestic aviation disaster, happened when a Jeju Air plane crashed into a wall at Muan International Airport after attempting to land without deploying its landing gear. Of the 181 passengers and crew onboard, 179 were killed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-response-after-state-media-blocked-on-telegram-in-eu-8577944">Russia vows response after state media blocked on Telegram in EU</a>
Investigators have identified 141 victims using DNA analysis and fingerprint records, according to a statement from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. Two flight attendants, a man and a woman, survived after being rescued from the aircraft's tail. They were taken to hospitals near the airport and later transferred to a facility in Seoul for further treatment, according to Yonhap news agency.
<h2>Why did the Jeju Airline plane crash?</h2>
While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, officials said it may have resulted from a bird strike, adverse weather conditions, or a combination of factors. The pilot of the Boeing 737-800 on Sunday told air traffic control the aircraft had suffered a bird strike before declaring a Mayday. The plane belly-landed, skidded off the runway, and crashed into a wall, bursting into flames upon impact.
Flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the wreckage, but reports suggest that the analysis may take longer than usual due to damage sustained by the flight data recorder.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plane-carrying-181-people-crashes-at-muan-airport-plane-crash-people-killed-23-dead-or-injured-8574368">South Korea plane tragedy: Death toll rises to 179; crash site declared special disaster zone</a>
Choi Sang-mok declared a seven-day mourning period starting Sunday. This comes just days after Choi replaced his impeached predecessor, Han Duck-soo.
<h2>Jeju Air CEO takes full responsibility for crash</h2>
The investigation is expected to focus heavily on the aircraft model, but questions are also being raised about the role of Jeju Air, the flight operator. Kim E-bae, the airline&rsquo;s chief executive, publicly apologised during a televised news conference.
He said that he takes full responsibility for the crash, regardless of its cause. Kim told the public that the airline would provide financial aid to the victims&rsquo; families and cooperate fully with the government investigation. He also added that the aircraft had undergone regular maintenance and no mechanical issues had been identified.
Reports suggest that the control tower at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-canada-flight-skids-and-catches-fire-during-landing-at-halifax-airport-video-8574888" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Muan International Airport</a>, located 300 km southwest of Seoul, issued a bird strike warning and gave the pilot permission to land at a different location. However, the aircraft sent out a distress signal shortly before the plane went past the runway.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Choi Sang-mok, who assumed the presidency just two days before the crash, said an exhaustive inspection is essential to overhaul the aviation safety system and move towards a safer Republic of Korea.

South Korea's acting president Choi Sang-mok on Monday (December 30) ordered an urgent safety review of the nation's airline operations following a Jeju Air crash on Sunday that claimed the lives of 179 people. The government has also announced plans to conduct a separate inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating within the country. An audit will be carried out on all 101 aircraft currently in domestic service, with US investigators and representatives from Boeing assisting in the investigation. Exhaustive inspection essential to overhaul the aviation safety system: Acting president Choi Sang-mok Choi Sang-mok, who assumed the presidency just two days before the incident, stressed the need for a comprehensive review of aviation safety protocols. He said that an exhaustive inspection is essential to overhaul the aviation safety system and move towards a safer Republic of Korea. The accident, South Korea's worst domestic aviation disaster, happened when a Jeju Air plane crashed into a wall at Muan International Airport after attempting to land without deploying its landing gear. Of the 181 passengers and crew onboard, 179 were killed. Also read: Russia vows response after state media blocked on Telegram in EU Investigators have identified 141 victims using DNA analysis and fingerprint records, according to a statement from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. Two flight attendants, a man and a woman, survived after being rescued from the aircraft's tail. They were taken to hospitals near the airport and later transferred to a facility in Seoul for further treatment, according to Yonhap news agency. Why did the Jeju Airline plane crash? While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, officials said it may have resulted from a bird strike, adverse weather conditions, or a combination of factors. The pilot of the Boeing 737-800 on Sunday told air traffic control the aircraft had suffered a bird strike before declaring a Mayday. The plane belly-landed, skidded off the runway, and crashed into a wall, bursting into flames upon impact. Flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the wreckage, but reports suggest that the analysis may take longer than usual due to damage sustained by the flight data recorder. Also read: South Korea plane tragedy: Death toll rises to 179; crash site declared special disaster zone Choi Sang-mok declared a seven-day mourning period starting Sunday. This comes just days after Choi replaced his impeached predecessor, Han Duck-soo. Jeju Air CEO takes full responsibility for crash The investigation is expected to focus heavily on the aircraft model, but questions are also being raised about the role of Jeju Air, the flight operator. Kim E-bae, the airline’s chief executive, publicly apologised during a televised news conference. He said that he takes full responsibility for the crash, regardless of its cause. Kim told the public that the airline would provide financial aid to the victims’ families and cooperate fully with the government investigation. He also added that the aircraft had undergone regular maintenance and no mechanical issues had been identified. Reports suggest that the control tower at Muan International Airport, located 300 km southwest of Seoul, issued a bird strike warning and gave the pilot permission to land at a different location. However, the aircraft sent out a distress signal shortly before the plane went past the runway. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea plane crash: Govt orders emergency airline inspections after Jeju Air disaster claims 179 lives

Azerbaijan's president blames Russian ground fire for deadly plane crash in Kazakhstan. Watch to know more.

Azerbaijan Accuses Russia Of Downing Plane In Christmas Day Crash | World News | WION

Azerbaijan Airlines Crash: Russia Blamed for Plane Crash, Nations Rebuke Kremlin | WION

New Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa held talks on Monday with Ukraine's foreign minister, the official news agency SANA reported, weeks after Russian-allied president Bashar al-Assad was ousted from power.
Moscow was one of Assad's key backers and had intervened to help turn the tide of Syria's civil war in his favour in 2015, so his toppling was seen as a major setback for Russia, which in 2022 launched an invasion of Ukraine.
"The leader of the new administration Ahmed al-Sharaa met with a Ukrainian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga," SANA reported without providing further details.
On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country had sent its first shipment of food aid, including 500 tonnes of wheat flour, to Syria.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-ahmed-al-sharaa-says-need-to-rewrite-constitution-before-elections-happen-urges-us-to-lift-sanctions-8576403" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them</a>
Despite the war, Ukraine is one of the world's top wheat producers.
Rebels led by Sharaa's Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched an offensive on November 27 that saw them take a number of key cities in quick succession before seizing the capital Damascus 11 days later, forcing Assad to flee to Russia.
But despite Moscow's backing for Assad, Sharaa on Sunday noted the "deep strategic interests between Russia and Syria" in an interview with the Al-Arabiya TV channel.
"All Syria's arms are of Russian origin, and many power plants are managed by Russian experts... We do not want Russia to leave Syria in the way that some wish," Sharaa added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country had sent its first shipment of food aid, 500 tonnes of wheat flour, to Syria.

New Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa held talks on Monday with Ukraine's foreign minister, the official news agency SANA reported, weeks after Russian-allied president Bashar al-Assad was ousted from power. Moscow was one of Assad's key backers and had intervened to help turn the tide of Syria's civil war in his favour in 2015, so his toppling was seen as a major setback for Russia, which in 2022 launched an invasion of Ukraine. "The leader of the new administration Ahmed al-Sharaa met with a Ukrainian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga," SANA reported without providing further details. On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country had sent its first shipment of food aid, including 500 tonnes of wheat flour, to Syria. Also read | Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them Despite the war, Ukraine is one of the world's top wheat producers. Rebels led by Sharaa's Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched an offensive on November 27 that saw them take a number of key cities in quick succession before seizing the capital Damascus 11 days later, forcing Assad to flee to Russia. But despite Moscow's backing for Assad, Sharaa on Sunday noted the "deep strategic interests between Russia and Syria" in an interview with the Al-Arabiya TV channel. "All Syria's arms are of Russian origin, and many power plants are managed by Russian experts... We do not want Russia to leave Syria in the way that some wish," Sharaa added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria’s new leader holds meeting with Ukraine's foreign minister

Russia on Sunday vowed to retaliate after the channels of its state media were apparently blocked on the popular Telegram social media platform in the European Union (EU).&nbsp;
On Sunday the channels of Ria Novosti news agency, Rossiya 1, Pervyi Kanal and NTV television, and Izvestia and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspapers were not accessible in several countries, including France, Belgium, Poland, Greece, the Netherlands, and Italy, according to media reports.
Neither Telegram nor EU sources have yet commented on the disruption.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-prosecutors-seek-arrest-warrant-for-yoon-after-ousted-president-skips-questioning-for-the-third-time-8577341">South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for Yoon after ousted president skips questioning for the third time</a>
Moscow called the move "an act of censorship".
"The systematic cleansing of all undesirable sources of information from the information space continues," Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
Slamming the "constant campaign of repression against Russian media in nearly all European Union countries", she said that "these attacks and similar ones against our media will not remain unanswered".
"We reserve the right to respond in the same manner," she said, denouncing the "censorship".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bandh-in-punjab-cripples-traffic-commercial-activities-affected-by-protesting-farmers-8577488">India: 'Bandh' in Punjab by protesting farmers cripples traffic, hits commercial activities</a>
Tensions between the European Union and Russia soared after Moscow sent troops to Ukraine in February 2022.
Since then, nearly all the few opposition media outlets that were operating in Russia have been shut down.
The EU had previously banned Russian state media like Ria Novosti, Izvestia, and Rossiyskaya Gazeta from being distributed in the bloc, charging them with disseminating propaganda.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

World: Russia is planning to retaliate after its state media channels were blocked on Telegram in European Union countries, affecting outlets like Ria Novosti and Rossiya.

Russia on Sunday vowed to retaliate after the channels of its state media were apparently blocked on the popular Telegram social media platform in the European Union (EU). On Sunday the channels of Ria Novosti news agency, Rossiya 1, Pervyi Kanal and NTV television, and Izvestia and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspapers were not accessible in several countries, including France, Belgium, Poland, Greece, the Netherlands, and Italy, according to media reports. Neither Telegram nor EU sources have yet commented on the disruption. Also read | South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for Yoon after ousted president skips questioning for the third time Moscow called the move "an act of censorship". "The systematic cleansing of all undesirable sources of information from the information space continues," Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said. Slamming the "constant campaign of repression against Russian media in nearly all European Union countries", she said that "these attacks and similar ones against our media will not remain unanswered". "We reserve the right to respond in the same manner," she said, denouncing the "censorship". Also read | India: 'Bandh' in Punjab by protesting farmers cripples traffic, hits commercial activities Tensions between the European Union and Russia soared after Moscow sent troops to Ukraine in February 2022. Since then, nearly all the few opposition media outlets that were operating in Russia have been shut down. The EU had previously banned Russian state media like Ria Novosti, Izvestia, and Rossiyskaya Gazeta from being distributed in the bloc, charging them with disseminating propaganda. 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.

Russia vows response after state media blocked on Telegram in EU

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.&nbsp;
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war.
Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group,&nbsp;including Hassan Nasrallah.
<h2>A deep infiltration into Hezbollah</h2>
On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-blasts-work-began-on-weaponising-walkie-talkies-over-a-decade-ago-say-ex-mossad-agents-786215" rel="dofollow">Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents</a>
Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders.
<h2>The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal</h2>
According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone&nbsp;was identified as Fuad Shukr.
Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-minister-katz-threatens-to-crush-hezbollahs-head-if-they-violates-ceasefire-785988" rel="dofollow">Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire</a>
Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses&mdash;something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them.
<h2>Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric</h2>
Shukr's extramarital affairs&nbsp;were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine.
Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice.&nbsp;
The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. 
The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike earlier this year. 

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war. Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group, including Hassan Nasrallah. A deep infiltration into Hezbollah On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them. Also read | Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders. The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July. Also read | Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses—something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them. Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric Shukr's extramarital affairs were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine. Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice. The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel finds THIS Hezbollah commander's desparate plan to marry four women: Report

Gal Gadot, who welcomed her fourth daughter, Ori, in March, surprised fans with a heartfelt Instagram post revealing she had suffered a "massive" blood clot during the eighth month of her pregnancy. She shared her experience to raise awareness about CVT, a condition involving a blood clot in the brain, which is treatable. The Wonder Woman star named her daughter Ori, meaning "my light," as she believed the newborn symbolized the end of her struggles with pain and uncertainty.

Gal Gadot Reveals She Had 'Massive Blood Clot' In Brain During Pregnancy | WION | World News

Pakistani women hope their life will change once they learns how to drive a motorcycle after undergoing a training program that teaches women how to operate two-wheelers in the bustling eastern city of Lahore.

Pakistan: Women On Wheels | Driving School Programme Empowering Women

Nigeria celebrates 20 years of honoring African heritage, with communities across the country showcasing their rich traditions and cultural practices. This milestone highlights the importance of preserving and promoting African identity through vibrant cultural festivals and events.

Nigeria Marks 20 Years of Celebrating African Heritage, Communities Highlight Tradition

In the latest move to curb women's rights in Afghanistan, the Taliban issued warnings to all foreign Non-Profit organisations (NGOs) to stop employing women or they will be banned from operating in the country. In a letter published on the social media platform X, Afghanistan's Economy Minister wrote that if the NGOs fail to comply with the orders, their licenses will be cancelled.&nbsp;
The post in Persian read, "The Ministry of Economy, as the authority for registering non-Emirati institutions, is responsible for coordinating, leading, and supervising all activities of domestic and foreign NGOs. Therefore, once again, a follow-up circular has been issued to stop the work of female employees in non-Emirati and foreign institutions. In case of non-cooperation, all activities of the offending institution will be suspended, and the activity license they received from this ministry will be cancelled," it added.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladeshi-americans-urge-trump-to-intervene-amid-attacks-against-minorities-8577523" aria-label="Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities">Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities</a>
The announcement came two years after the Taliban ordered NGOs to suspend female employees, accusing them of not wearing their hijab correctly and not dressing as per the Islamic dress code.&nbsp;
<h2>Taliban ban windows in buildings</h2>
Just a few hours before the latest announcement, the Taliban prohibited the construction of windows in residential buildings and kitchen areas. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid justified the prohibition, saying, "Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards, or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts."
To ensure compliance, the nation's municipal authorities and other relevant authorities have been tasked with monitoring construction sites. They will ensure that people can't look into their neighbour's house.
According to news agency AFP, the decree also specified that in instances where such windows already exist, building owners would be asked to put up a wall or seal the window to obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-bans-windows-overlooking-womens-spaces-including-kitchens-says-they-can-lead-to-obscene-acts-8576595" rel="dofollow">Taliban's new diktat: Kitchens must be windowless to prevent 'obscene acts' against women</a>
It's been three years since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan and snatched all basic human rights for Afghan women. It has banned women from schools, universities, most workplaces, and even parks.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

The announcement came two years after the Taliban ordered NGOs to suspend female employees, accusing them of not wearing their hijab correctly and not dressing as per the Islamic dress code. 

In the latest move to curb women's rights in Afghanistan, the Taliban issued warnings to all foreign Non-Profit organisations (NGOs) to stop employing women or they will be banned from operating in the country. In a letter published on the social media platform X, Afghanistan's Economy Minister wrote that if the NGOs fail to comply with the orders, their licenses will be cancelled. The post in Persian read, "The Ministry of Economy, as the authority for registering non-Emirati institutions, is responsible for coordinating, leading, and supervising all activities of domestic and foreign NGOs. Therefore, once again, a follow-up circular has been issued to stop the work of female employees in non-Emirati and foreign institutions. In case of non-cooperation, all activities of the offending institution will be suspended, and the activity license they received from this ministry will be cancelled," it added. Also read | Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities The announcement came two years after the Taliban ordered NGOs to suspend female employees, accusing them of not wearing their hijab correctly and not dressing as per the Islamic dress code. Taliban ban windows in buildings Just a few hours before the latest announcement, the Taliban prohibited the construction of windows in residential buildings and kitchen areas. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid justified the prohibition, saying, "Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards, or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts." To ensure compliance, the nation's municipal authorities and other relevant authorities have been tasked with monitoring construction sites. They will ensure that people can't look into their neighbour's house. According to news agency AFP, the decree also specified that in instances where such windows already exist, building owners would be asked to put up a wall or seal the window to obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours". Also read | Taliban's new diktat: Kitchens must be windowless to prevent 'obscene acts' against women It's been three years since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan and snatched all basic human rights for Afghan women. It has banned women from schools, universities, most workplaces, and even parks. (With inputs from agencies)

'Stop employing females or...': Taliban's latest order to curb women's rights in Afghanistan

In an interview with a Russian news agency, Foreign Minister of Russia, Lavrov, has said that Moscow is unhappy with the proposals reportedly made by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Citing various leaks and Trump’s interview with Time magazine on December 12th, Lavrov has said Russia is not satisfied, as Trump has been talking about freezing hostilities along the line of engagement and transferring further responsibility for confronting Russia to the European nations. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Lavrov Says Ready For Talks, But It Should Address 'Root Causes'

Chad voted in a general election on Sunday that the government had hailed as a key step towards ending military rule, but that was marked by low turnout and the opposition's call for a boycott amid allegations of fraud.
Voting in the landlocked country in Africa's northern half had taken place against a backdrop of recurring attacks by the jihadist group Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region, the ending of a military accord with former colonial master France, and accusations that Chad was interfering in the conflict ravaging neighbouring Sudan.
The government has presented the elections as the final stage in the transition to democracy.
President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno took power in 2021 after the death of his father, who had ruled the Sahel country for three decades.
The opposition had called for a boycott of the election, saying the results had been decided in advance.
After polling stations closed, the turnout stood at 52.37 per cent, according to the ANGE national election management agency.
In the capital, N'Djamena, the opposition cried foul, saying numerous irregularities occurred the day before in some precincts, when soldiers had cast their ballots in line with tradition that sees the military, police, and nomads vote a day before the general population.
"The soldiers who came to vote yesterday (were) without a voter card or national identity card. The same person could vote twenty-five or fifty times," said Abdelaziz Koulamallah, a candidate for a local seat with the Federal Party for Justice and Development (PFJD), in a video posted on his Facebook account.
Election officials in the upmarket district where the president's family and ruling dignitaries live earlier put the low turnout to "cold weather".
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-ahmed-al-sharaa-says-need-to-rewrite-constitution-before-elections-happen-urges-us-to-lift-sanctions-8576403" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them</a>
But the opposition said the low numbers were due to its call for a boycott.
They "have all stayed at home following our call. That is, the overwhelming majority" have, Succes Masra, leader of the opposition Transformers party, told AFP.
The boycott leaves the field open for candidates aligned with the president, who was brought to power by the military in 2021 and then legitimised in a presidential election in May that opposition candidates denounced as fraudulent.&nbsp;
"I urge all my compatriots on the electoral roll to come out and vote en masse," Deby posted on Facebook, alongside photos of himself casting his ballot on what he called a "historic day".
<h2>'Pointless'</h2>
On Saturday, Masra had said, "The fabricated results are already in the computers."&nbsp;
Herve Natouingan, 28, a construction worker turned motorbike taxi driver due to a lack of job prospects, said it was "pointless" to cast a ballot because "there's no real voting in Chad".&nbsp;
Patrice Lumumba Deoumoundou, an unemployed 39-year-old, told AFP he had voted on Sunday morning in the hope of "change across the board" &ndash; more jobs, fewer price rises, "more justice" and "more equality".
Chad's election management agency said there had been "record" turnout during the early voting on Saturday, with more than 72 per cent in the army and 54 per cent among nomads.
"There is a lot at stake locally in these elections," it said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-prosecutors-seek-arrest-warrant-for-yoon-after-ousted-president-skips-questioning-for-the-third-time-8577341" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for Yoon after ousted president skips questioning for the third time</a>
"The nomads came to ask the people who will be elected tomorrow to improve their living conditions," said Sheikh Djibrine Hassabakarim, one of the community's representatives.
He said climate change had made life hard for his community, killing livestock, triggering clashes with sedentary farmers, and making it hard for them to feed their families.
<h2>Transition to democracy</h2>
Polling stations were monitored by around 100 foreign election observers and representatives of political parties.
On Saturday evening, the opposition Democratic Party of the Chadian People (PDPT) said more than a thousand ballots intended for the sub-prefecture of Bongor had disappeared.
It called for "vigilance" to "thwart the fraud networks" it said had been set up by the ruling MPS party.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. 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 opposition had called for a boycott of the election, saying the results had been decided in advance. After polling stations closed, turnout stood at 52.37 per cent.

Chad voted in a general election on Sunday that the government had hailed as a key step towards ending military rule, but that was marked by low turnout and the opposition's call for a boycott amid allegations of fraud. Voting in the landlocked country in Africa's northern half had taken place against a backdrop of recurring attacks by the jihadist group Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region, the ending of a military accord with former colonial master France, and accusations that Chad was interfering in the conflict ravaging neighbouring Sudan. The government has presented the elections as the final stage in the transition to democracy. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno took power in 2021 after the death of his father, who had ruled the Sahel country for three decades. The opposition had called for a boycott of the election, saying the results had been decided in advance. After polling stations closed, the turnout stood at 52.37 per cent, according to the ANGE national election management agency. In the capital, N'Djamena, the opposition cried foul, saying numerous irregularities occurred the day before in some precincts, when soldiers had cast their ballots in line with tradition that sees the military, police, and nomads vote a day before the general population. "The soldiers who came to vote yesterday (were) without a voter card or national identity card. The same person could vote twenty-five or fifty times," said Abdelaziz Koulamallah, a candidate for a local seat with the Federal Party for Justice and Development (PFJD), in a video posted on his Facebook account. Election officials in the upmarket district where the president's family and ruling dignitaries live earlier put the low turnout to "cold weather". Also read | Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them But the opposition said the low numbers were due to its call for a boycott. They "have all stayed at home following our call. That is, the overwhelming majority" have, Succes Masra, leader of the opposition Transformers party, told AFP. The boycott leaves the field open for candidates aligned with the president, who was brought to power by the military in 2021 and then legitimised in a presidential election in May that opposition candidates denounced as fraudulent. "I urge all my compatriots on the electoral roll to come out and vote en masse," Deby posted on Facebook, alongside photos of himself casting his ballot on what he called a "historic day". 'Pointless' On Saturday, Masra had said, "The fabricated results are already in the computers." Herve Natouingan, 28, a construction worker turned motorbike taxi driver due to a lack of job prospects, said it was "pointless" to cast a ballot because "there's no real voting in Chad". Patrice Lumumba Deoumoundou, an unemployed 39-year-old, told AFP he had voted on Sunday morning in the hope of "change across the board" – more jobs, fewer price rises, "more justice" and "more equality". Chad's election management agency said there had been "record" turnout during the early voting on Saturday, with more than 72 per cent in the army and 54 per cent among nomads. "There is a lot at stake locally in these elections," it said. Also read | South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for Yoon after ousted president skips questioning for the third time "The nomads came to ask the people who will be elected tomorrow to improve their living conditions," said Sheikh Djibrine Hassabakarim, one of the community's representatives. He said climate change had made life hard for his community, killing livestock, triggering clashes with sedentary farmers, and making it hard for them to feed their families. Transition to democracy Polling stations were monitored by around 100 foreign election observers and representatives of political parties. On Saturday evening, the opposition Democratic Party of the Chadian People (PDPT) said more than a thousand ballots intended for the sub-prefecture of Bongor had disappeared. It called for "vigilance" to "thwart the fraud networks" it said had been set up by the ruling MPS party. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chad votes in general election ending military rule after three years

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Foreign Minister Opens Up About Ukraine Peace Talks

Harry Potter author JK Rowling is once again in the soup for her controversial remarks on transgender people. Rowling, who has been in controversy for her views on women's rights and the LGBTQ+ community over the years, said in a post on social media platform X that no one is "'born in the wrong body'." Her post on Sunday (Dec 29) sparked critcism with people accusing her of "hateful focus".&nbsp;
Rowling suggested in her latest post that transgender children do not exist.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
There are no trans kids. No child is 'born in the wrong body'. There are only adults like you, prepared to sacrifice the health of minors to bolster your belief in an ideology that will end up wreaking more harm than lobotomies and false memory syndrome combined. <a href="https://t.co/yyc4MxgfOk">pic.twitter.com/yyc4MxgfOk</a>
&mdash; J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/1873086949252293040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>

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

<h2>'Use your immense power for good'&nbsp;</h2>
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-slams-donald-trump-while-paying-tribute-to-jimmy-carters-death-8577296" aria-label="Joe Biden slams Trump while paying tribute to Jimmy Carter">Joe Biden slams Trump while paying tribute to Jimmy Carter</a>
It all started when a social media user accused her of not using her "immense power" for good. The user wrote, "I wish you would use your immense power for good. Your hateful focus on trans kids is hurtful and unnecessary."&nbsp;
Rowling responded to the critic saying, "There are no trans kids. No child is 'born in the wrong body'. There are only adults like you, prepared to sacrifice the health of minors to bolster your belief in an ideology that ends up wrecking more harm than lobotomies and false memory syndrome combined."&nbsp;
The conversation sparked immense discussion and strong comments, most of them in favour of the 59-year-old author. One X user wrote in support of Rowling, "JK is a hero." While another said, "As far as I'm concerned, you ARE using your immense power for good."&nbsp;
In August this year, amid the wave around Algerian boxer Imane Khalife, who previously failed to meet gender eligibility criteria and was accused of being a trans woman (but it was confirmed she is a woman), Rowling described Khalife as a "male who knows he's protected by a misogynist sporting establishment."
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/rewind-2024-2024-year-of-the-trump-phenomenon-8577268" aria-label="2024: Year of the Trump phenomenon">2024: Year of the Trump phenomenon</a>
In June 2020, she said that she knew and "loved trans people," but added that "erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives."&nbsp;
In support of her latest post, one user wrote, "Thank you for being a strong voice in protecting children."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: JK Rowling has again stirred controversy with her recent comments, asserting that transgender children do not exist, a statement that has sparked widespread debate.

Harry Potter author JK Rowling is once again in the soup for her controversial remarks on transgender people. Rowling, who has been in controversy for her views on women's rights and the LGBTQ+ community over the years, said in a post on social media platform X that no one is "'born in the wrong body'." Her post on Sunday (Dec 29) sparked critcism with people accusing her of "hateful focus". Rowling suggested in her latest post that transgender children do not exist. There are no trans kids. No child is 'born in the wrong body'. There are only adults like you, prepared to sacrifice the health of minors to bolster your belief in an ideology that will end up wreaking more harm than lobotomies and false memory syndrome combined. pic.twitter.com/yyc4MxgfOk — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) December 28, 2024 'Use your immense power for good' Also read | Joe Biden slams Trump while paying tribute to Jimmy Carter It all started when a social media user accused her of not using her "immense power" for good. The user wrote, "I wish you would use your immense power for good. Your hateful focus on trans kids is hurtful and unnecessary." Rowling responded to the critic saying, "There are no trans kids. No child is 'born in the wrong body'. There are only adults like you, prepared to sacrifice the health of minors to bolster your belief in an ideology that ends up wrecking more harm than lobotomies and false memory syndrome combined." The conversation sparked immense discussion and strong comments, most of them in favour of the 59-year-old author. One X user wrote in support of Rowling, "JK is a hero." While another said, "As far as I'm concerned, you ARE using your immense power for good." In August this year, amid the wave around Algerian boxer Imane Khalife, who previously failed to meet gender eligibility criteria and was accused of being a trans woman (but it was confirmed she is a woman), Rowling described Khalife as a "male who knows he's protected by a misogynist sporting establishment." Also read | 2024: Year of the Trump phenomenon In June 2020, she said that she knew and "loved trans people," but added that "erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives." In support of her latest post, one user wrote, "Thank you for being a strong voice in protecting children." (With inputs from agencies)

‘There are no trans kids’: Harry Potter author JK Rowling claims no child ‘born in wrong body’, sparks debate

The leader of Thailand’s main opposition party has surpassed incumbent Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in a key opinion poll, becoming the most favored leader for Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy. Watch to know more!

Thailand: Opposition Leader Outpolls Incumbent PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra In New Survey

Elon Musk has backed Suchir Balaji's mother Poornima Ramarao’s claims of foul play in her son's mysterious death. Suchir Balaji was an OpenAI engineer and whistleblower who was found dead in his San Francisco apartment under mysterious circumstances on November 26. His death has raised questions, with some speculating foul play due to his recent whistleblowing against the company.

Suchir Balaji Found Dead: Elon Musk Recats As Shocking Details Unfold

New details have emerged about the covert operation that killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July of this year. A Channel 12 report reveals that Israel waited until after the inauguration of the new Iranian president, Masoud Pezeshkian, to carry out the assassination in Tehran.

Haniyeh Assassination: Plan To Assassinate Haniyeh Was In Works For Months: Report

Amid the ongoing tensions against religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh, the coalition of Bangladeshi American Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians has urged President-elect Donald Trump to step in the matter saying they face an &ldquo;existential threat&rdquo; from Islamist forces.
The group has called on Trump to intervene and secure the immediate release of monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, who they said was falsely imprisoned on sedition charges. They also said on Sunday (Dec 29) that Bangladesh is close to slipping into radicalisation, which may have significant effects not only in South Asia but also in other parts of the world, reported news agency PTI.
Das, a former International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) leader, was arrested at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on November 25. He was accused of a sedition charge for allegedly disrespecting the national flag and sent to jail after the Chattogram court denied his bail request.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-restricts-journalists-from-entering-secretariat-citing-security-reasons-8574215" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Bangladesh restricts journalists from entering secretariat citing security reasons</a>
The group proposed linking Bangladesh&rsquo;s involvement in United Nations peacekeeping missions to end the internal ethnic and religious persecution, in a memorandum addressed to Trump. They also suggested a comprehensive Minority Protection Act to formally recognise minority indigenous tribes.
According to a press release, the key recommendations included the creation of safe enclaves, a separate electorate for minorities, and laws against hate crimes and hate speech to protect religious practices and cultural heritage.
<h2>Religious leaders express concerns</h2>
Several religious leaders have demanded the interim government of Bangladesh to act swiftly to prevent crime against people of minority groups, especially women, in Bangladesh and ensure that peace and harmony are restored.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-want-her-back-bangladesh-formally-writes-to-india-to-facilitate-return-of-sheikh-hasina-786191" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'We want her back...': Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina</a>
According to a report, prominent personalities from Hindu Sanatani Sangathan and All India Imams Organisation discussed the ongoing issues in Bangladesh during a meeting held in Kolkata, West Bengal.
&ldquo;We are holding prayers for peace and amity and end to hostilities against minorities in Bangladesh. The situation has become such that even women are not being spared from brutal attacks,&rdquo; Radharamn Das, vice-president of ISKCON, Kolkata, told PTI.
(With inputs from agencies)

The group has urged Trump to intervene and secure the immediate release of monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was falsely imprisoned on sedition charges.

Amid the ongoing tensions against religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh, the coalition of Bangladeshi American Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians has urged President-elect Donald Trump to step in the matter saying they face an “existential threat” from Islamist forces. The group has called on Trump to intervene and secure the immediate release of monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, who they said was falsely imprisoned on sedition charges. They also said on Sunday (Dec 29) that Bangladesh is close to slipping into radicalisation, which may have significant effects not only in South Asia but also in other parts of the world, reported news agency PTI. Das, a former International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) leader, was arrested at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on November 25. He was accused of a sedition charge for allegedly disrespecting the national flag and sent to jail after the Chattogram court denied his bail request. Also read | Bangladesh restricts journalists from entering secretariat citing security reasons The group proposed linking Bangladesh’s involvement in United Nations peacekeeping missions to end the internal ethnic and religious persecution, in a memorandum addressed to Trump. They also suggested a comprehensive Minority Protection Act to formally recognise minority indigenous tribes. According to a press release, the key recommendations included the creation of safe enclaves, a separate electorate for minorities, and laws against hate crimes and hate speech to protect religious practices and cultural heritage. Religious leaders express concerns Several religious leaders have demanded the interim government of Bangladesh to act swiftly to prevent crime against people of minority groups, especially women, in Bangladesh and ensure that peace and harmony are restored. Also read | 'We want her back...': Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina According to a report, prominent personalities from Hindu Sanatani Sangathan and All India Imams Organisation discussed the ongoing issues in Bangladesh during a meeting held in Kolkata, West Bengal. “We are holding prayers for peace and amity and end to hostilities against minorities in Bangladesh. The situation has become such that even women are not being spared from brutal attacks,” Radharamn Das, vice-president of ISKCON, Kolkata, told PTI. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities

The Air Intelligence Unit officers at India’s airport rescued 2,447 live turtles being smuggled by a passenger arriving from Kuala Lumpur. The turtles were concealed in eight boxes within the passenger’s checked-in luggage. Watch in for more details!

Turtle Smuggling Racket Foiled At India's Trichy Airport

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, died on Sunday (Dec 29) at the age of 100, his non-profit foundation announced. According to the Crater Center, he died "peacefully" at his home in Plains, Georgia, "surrounded by his family". Watch in for more details!

Jimmy Carter: How Haryana Village Was Named 'Carterpuri' In His Honour

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France mass rape: Dominique Pelicot has decided not to appeal, says lawyer