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

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

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

Scientists reveal the SAFEST COUNTRY when catastrophe strikes the planet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on global outreach tour 

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

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

How the S-400 protects itself from enemy attacks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Volunteers struggled to shovel up tons of sticky oil from Russia's Black Sea coastline following what President Vladimir Putin has called an ecological disaster. Watch this report for more details!

Russia rushes to clean up oil spill along black sea coast

Explore the lesser-known dangers of artificial intelligence as we delve into its potential for misuse, ethical dilemmas, and unforeseen consequences.

Dark side of Ai: Unveiling the hidden risks

The British-Canadian computer scientist often touted as a “godfather” of artificial intelligence has shortened the odds of AI wiping out humanity over the next three decades, warning the pace of change in the technology is “much faster” than expected. Watch to know more.

'Godfather' of Ai makes dire prediction

The United States has been the key ally of Israel and Ukraine in their wars with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Russia respectively. However, the nature of the support to the warring nations has been different in its own way.&nbsp;
Be it in terms of military or financial aid, America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=zelensky" rel="dofollow">Zelensky </a>and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;
In comparison, Netanyahu defies US President Joe Biden more bluntly than Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president has been more sympathetic since the war started.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-uses-us-thaad-system-for-first-time-to-intercept-houthi-missile-what-is-it-8573666">Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?</a>
Despite the US talks and advice, Zelensky has not been taking meaningful steps to achieve a realistic ceasefire with Russia. However, he is hoping to reclaim all of Ukraine's lost territory by force.&nbsp;
<h2>US support to Ukraine</h2>
The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on now for more than two years, in which Washington has been playing a key role in providing military aid to Ukraine in its fight with one of the world's most powerful militaries.&nbsp;
Since 2022, the US Congress has passed five bills and provided a total of USD 175 billion, mostly for intelligence, weapons, and training.&nbsp;
A major shift in US support for Ukraine came to light when the Biden administration authorised Kyiv to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike deeper inside Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-outgoing-us-president-biden-125-bn-military-aid-for-kyiv-8573331" rel="dofollow">Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv</a>
This came after Russia positioned North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;
However, now the situation can change in a larger perspective with Donald Trump coming into the picture as he will soon take over the US administration.&nbsp;
President-elect Trump's foreign policy approach has always been more isolationist, stressing a focus on "America First".&nbsp;
This can further affect the wide foreign interventions, especially in Europe and Ukraine. After returning to office, his position on support to Ukraine and NATO could shift, which can further reduce US aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sentences-singer-to-55-years-in-jail-for-criticising-ukraine-offensive-8571826" rel="dofollow">Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive</a>
<h2>US support to Israel&nbsp;</h2>
As compared to the past decades, US military aid to Israel has been the highest amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the escalating war, over 40,000 Palestinians have died, the United Nations and the Gaza health ministry stated.&nbsp;
The war began on October 7, last year, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage in Gaza.&nbsp;
Following that, the war has escalated into a wider region, and now, it is not just with Hamas, but also with Hezbollah and Iran.&nbsp;
The US has spent at least USD 17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the war began, according to a report for Brown University&rsquo;s Costs of War project published in October.&nbsp;
The US, however, is bound by the Leahy Law, which means that the country cannot provide security assistance to foreign governments or groups that commit gross human rights violations.&nbsp;
However, some legal scholars have alleged that America has not applied the law in the case of Israel as it has with other West Asian countries.&nbsp;
<h2>Wider point of view</h2>
Some US and Israeli analysts have argued that Washington's aid to Israel should be reevaluated because Israel is now a wealthy country, the fourteenth richest per capita and one of the most advanced militaries in the world.
In May 2024, CFR Senior Fellow Steven A. Cook said that US military aid should be phased out over ten years and replaced with a series of bilateral agreements on security cooperation.&nbsp;
Late Martin S. Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and CFR Distinguished Fellow, also called for alteration of the aid.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The US-Israel relationship would be a lot healthier without this dependence. Time for Israel at seventy-five to stand on its own two feet,&rdquo; he posted on X in June last year.
Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has taken a shift weeks before Donald Trump takes over the US administration, as Joe Biden rushes out billions of dollars more in military aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;
Recently, Trump has been insisting that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire, saying that Ukraine should probably prepare to receive less US military aid.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President and Israeli Prime Minister. 

The United States has been the key ally of Israel and Ukraine in their wars with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Russia respectively. However, the nature of the support to the warring nations has been different in its own way. Be it in terms of military or financial aid, America has been defending Israel and Ukraine since the beginning of the wars as it shares good relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In comparison, Netanyahu defies US President Joe Biden more bluntly than Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president has been more sympathetic since the war started. Also read: Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it? Despite the US talks and advice, Zelensky has not been taking meaningful steps to achieve a realistic ceasefire with Russia. However, he is hoping to reclaim all of Ukraine's lost territory by force. US support to Ukraine The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on now for more than two years, in which Washington has been playing a key role in providing military aid to Ukraine in its fight with one of the world's most powerful militaries. Since 2022, the US Congress has passed five bills and provided a total of USD 175 billion, mostly for intelligence, weapons, and training. A major shift in US support for Ukraine came to light when the Biden administration authorised Kyiv to use US-supplied long-range missiles to strike deeper inside Russia. Also read: Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv This came after Russia positioned North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces. However, now the situation can change in a larger perspective with Donald Trump coming into the picture as he will soon take over the US administration. President-elect Trump's foreign policy approach has always been more isolationist, stressing a focus on "America First". This can further affect the wide foreign interventions, especially in Europe and Ukraine. After returning to office, his position on support to Ukraine and NATO could shift, which can further reduce US aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia. Also read: Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive US support to Israel As compared to the past decades, US military aid to Israel has been the highest amid its war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the escalating war, over 40,000 Palestinians have died, the United Nations and the Gaza health ministry stated. The war began on October 7, last year, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage in Gaza. Following that, the war has escalated into a wider region, and now, it is not just with Hamas, but also with Hezbollah and Iran. The US has spent at least USD 17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the war began, according to a report for Brown University’s Costs of War project published in October. The US, however, is bound by the Leahy Law, which means that the country cannot provide security assistance to foreign governments or groups that commit gross human rights violations. However, some legal scholars have alleged that America has not applied the law in the case of Israel as it has with other West Asian countries. Wider point of view Some US and Israeli analysts have argued that Washington's aid to Israel should be reevaluated because Israel is now a wealthy country, the fourteenth richest per capita and one of the most advanced militaries in the world. In May 2024, CFR Senior Fellow Steven A. Cook said that US military aid should be phased out over ten years and replaced with a series of bilateral agreements on security cooperation. Late Martin S. Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and CFR Distinguished Fellow, also called for alteration of the aid. “The US-Israel relationship would be a lot healthier without this dependence. Time for Israel at seventy-five to stand on its own two feet,” he posted on X in June last year. Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has taken a shift weeks before Donald Trump takes over the US administration, as Joe Biden rushes out billions of dollars more in military aid to Ukraine. Recently, Trump has been insisting that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire, saying that Ukraine should probably prepare to receive less US military aid. (With inputs from agencies)

How US support strengthened Israel and Ukraine in their wars

Elon Musk, a close adviser to Donald Trump, showed support for Germany&rsquo;s Alternative for Germany (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-warned-germany-about-the-suspect-in-christmas-market-attack-report-785849">AfD</a>) party in an opinion piece published online on Saturday (December 28), by the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag.&nbsp;
The piece, which expanded on comments Musk had made earlier on social media, led to the resignation of the paper&rsquo;s commentary editor, Eva Marie Kogel.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-maga-laura-loomer-h-1b-indian-immigration-sriram-krishnan-us-news-8573773">&lsquo;I will go to war,&rsquo; Musk turns on MAGA over H-1B; far-right Loomer claims her X account &lsquo;censored&rsquo;</a>
Last week, Musk posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, that "only the AfD can save Germany." His comments were widely criticised, with the German government dismissing them as lacking sound political judgment. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach called Musk&rsquo;s actions &ldquo;undignified and problematic,&rdquo; suggesting they could amount to election interference.
In the opinion piece, written in German, Musk wrote, "The portrayal of the AfD as right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party's leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please!"
After the article was published, Kogel announced her resignation via a post on X. &ldquo;I always enjoyed heading the opinion department at Welt and Wams. Today a text by Elon Musk appeared in Welt am Sonntag. Yesterday I submitted my resignation after printing,&rdquo; she wrote, alongside a link to Musk&rsquo;s article.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-problematic-post-on-german-politics-sparks-accusations-785767">Elon Musk's 'problematic' post on German politics sparks accusations of interference</a>
<h2>'Musk&rsquo;s diagnosis is correct, but...'</h2>
Responding to the controversy, Jan Philipp Burgard, the incoming editor-in-chief of Welt, and Ulf Poschardt, who is set to take over as publisher on 1 January, told Reuters, &ldquo;Democracy and journalism thrive on freedom of expression. This includes dealing with polarising positions and classifying them journalistically.&rdquo; 
In the same edition of the newspaper, Burgard published a response to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trumps-efficiency-co-chief-elon-musk-calls-fed-overstaffed-786640">Elon Musk&rsquo;s</a> piece. &ldquo;Musk&rsquo;s diagnosis is correct, but his therapeutic approach, that only the AfD can save Germany, is fatally false,&rdquo; he wrote.
The AfD, known for its strong anti-immigration stance, has been classified as a suspected extremist organisation by Germany&rsquo;s domestic intelligence agency since 2021. The party has called for mass deportations from Germany and championed for anti-immigration policies, like Donald Trump during his presidency in the United States.
This move comes ahead of Germany&rsquo;s federal election on 23 February. While the AfD is ranking second on polls, mainstream centrist parties have vowed not to collaborate with them at the national level. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Musk wrote, "The portrayal of the AfD as right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party's leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka!"

Elon Musk, a close adviser to Donald Trump, showed support for Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in an opinion piece published online on Saturday (December 28), by the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag. The piece, which expanded on comments Musk had made earlier on social media, led to the resignation of the paper’s commentary editor, Eva Marie Kogel. Also read: ‘I will go to war,’ Musk turns on MAGA over H-1B; far-right Loomer claims her X account ‘censored’ Last week, Musk posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, that "only the AfD can save Germany." His comments were widely criticised, with the German government dismissing them as lacking sound political judgment. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach called Musk’s actions “undignified and problematic,” suggesting they could amount to election interference. In the opinion piece, written in German, Musk wrote, "The portrayal of the AfD as right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party's leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please!" After the article was published, Kogel announced her resignation via a post on X. “I always enjoyed heading the opinion department at Welt and Wams. Today a text by Elon Musk appeared in Welt am Sonntag. Yesterday I submitted my resignation after printing,” she wrote, alongside a link to Musk’s article. Also read: Elon Musk's 'problematic' post on German politics sparks accusations of interference 'Musk’s diagnosis is correct, but...' Responding to the controversy, Jan Philipp Burgard, the incoming editor-in-chief of Welt, and Ulf Poschardt, who is set to take over as publisher on 1 January, told Reuters, “Democracy and journalism thrive on freedom of expression. This includes dealing with polarising positions and classifying them journalistically.” In the same edition of the newspaper, Burgard published a response to Elon Musk’s piece. “Musk’s diagnosis is correct, but his therapeutic approach, that only the AfD can save Germany, is fatally false,” he wrote. The AfD, known for its strong anti-immigration stance, has been classified as a suspected extremist organisation by Germany’s domestic intelligence agency since 2021. The party has called for mass deportations from Germany and championed for anti-immigration policies, like Donald Trump during his presidency in the United States. This move comes ahead of Germany’s federal election on 23 February. While the AfD is ranking second on polls, mainstream centrist parties have vowed not to collaborate with them at the national level. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk endorses German far right AfD in op-ed; opinion editor resigns in protest

US President Joe Biden regrets taking his candidature down for the 2024 Presidential election and believes he would have defeated President-elect Donald Trump, said the White House, as per the Washington Post. Biden also reportedly said that choosing Merrick Garland as his attorney general was a mistake. He said that Garland, who is a former US appeals court judge, was slow in prosecuting Trump for the January 6 Capitol riot but aggressive while prosecuting Biden's son Hunter. He reportedly said he should have chosen someone else for the role.&nbsp;
With just three weeks remaining of his presidency in the White House, Biden clarified he made a mistake after a woeful debate performance against the Republican a month before the election.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-may-get-second-state-visit-invite-to-uk-but-by-2026-report-8574052" aria-label="Trump may get second state visit invite to UK, but by 2026: Report">Trump may get second state visit invite to UK, but by 2026: Report</a>
After mounting pressure from his own party workers, Biden removed his name from the polls and replaced it with his vice president Kamala Harris. The pressure on Biden came after election polls showed Trump seeking a second term in the White House.&nbsp;
Harris's nomination improved the overall statistics for the Democrats but could not tilt the polls in favour of Trump wrong.&nbsp;
According to the report by the Washinton Post, Biden and his aides did not blame Harris but showed determination that the results would have been in his favour if he had stood with his candidacy.&nbsp;
However, Harris supporters dispute this claim as they blame Biden took too much time to withdraw his name, which ended up giving Harris too little time to launch an effective campaign.&nbsp;
Richard Blumenthal, a Democratic senator for Connecticut, criticised Biden for his late decision. "Biden ran on the promise that he was going to be a transitional president, and in effect, have one term before handing it off to another generation," he said as reported by the media house.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-rejects-hamas-accusation-of-setting-gaza-hospital-on-fire-8573248" aria-label="IDF arrests 240 'terrorists' after targeted operation near Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital">IDF arrests 240 'terrorists' after targeted operation near Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital</a>
&ldquo;I think his running again broke that concept &ndash; the conceptual underpinning of the theory that he would end the Trump appeal, he would defeat Trumpism and enable a new era," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

After mounting pressure from his own party workers, Biden removed his name from the polls and replaced it with his vice president Kamala Harris.

US President Joe Biden regrets taking his candidature down for the 2024 Presidential election and believes he would have defeated President-elect Donald Trump, said the White House, as per the Washington Post. Biden also reportedly said that choosing Merrick Garland as his attorney general was a mistake. He said that Garland, who is a former US appeals court judge, was slow in prosecuting Trump for the January 6 Capitol riot but aggressive while prosecuting Biden's son Hunter. He reportedly said he should have chosen someone else for the role. With just three weeks remaining of his presidency in the White House, Biden clarified he made a mistake after a woeful debate performance against the Republican a month before the election. Also read | Trump may get second state visit invite to UK, but by 2026: Report After mounting pressure from his own party workers, Biden removed his name from the polls and replaced it with his vice president Kamala Harris. The pressure on Biden came after election polls showed Trump seeking a second term in the White House. Harris's nomination improved the overall statistics for the Democrats but could not tilt the polls in favour of Trump wrong. According to the report by the Washinton Post, Biden and his aides did not blame Harris but showed determination that the results would have been in his favour if he had stood with his candidacy. However, Harris supporters dispute this claim as they blame Biden took too much time to withdraw his name, which ended up giving Harris too little time to launch an effective campaign. Richard Blumenthal, a Democratic senator for Connecticut, criticised Biden for his late decision. "Biden ran on the promise that he was going to be a transitional president, and in effect, have one term before handing it off to another generation," he said as reported by the media house. Also read | IDF arrests 240 'terrorists' after targeted operation near Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital “I think his running again broke that concept – the conceptual underpinning of the theory that he would end the Trump appeal, he would defeat Trumpism and enable a new era," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden regrets ending re-election campaign, thinks he would have defeated Trump: Report

The U.S. saw an 18.1% rise in homelessness this year, with over 770,000 people affected, driven by a housing shortage, natural disasters, and migration.

Homelessness surges to record levels in US

Ai could pose existential threat

Russia's Vladimir Putin on Saturday (December 28) dialed in Azeri president to apologise for the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash which resulted in the loss of 38 lives.
In other news, Israel Defence Force (IDF) concluded its operation around Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital by arresting around 240 alleged terrorists, including the hospital's director and other staff on Saturday (Dec 28), i24News reported.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more:
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-plane-crash-putin-apologises-for-tragic-incident-says-were-repelling-ukrainian-attacks-8573809">Azerbaijan plane crash: Putin dials Azeri Prez to apologise for 'tragic incident' that killed 38</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/zUofdANco9XiM6UHtnYV.jpg" alt=" Left: Russia President Vladimir Putin; Right: Azerbaijan plane crash Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Russia's Vladimir Putin on Saturday (December 28) dialed in Azeri president to apologise for the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash which resulted in the loss of 38 lives.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manmohan-singh-funeral-final-rites-today-at-nigambodh-ghat-in-delhi-8572054" rel="dofollow">Manmohan Singh Funeral: Last rites held at Nigambodh ghat in Delhi</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/3dXPuhXKl5rZQ7Ys05Zt.png" alt=" Photograph: (ANI) ">
The last rites of India's former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh were held on Saturday (Dec 28) at 11:45 AM local time at New Delhi&rsquo;s Nigambodh Ghat.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-rejects-hamas-accusation-of-setting-gaza-hospital-on-fire-8573248">IDF arrests 240 'terrorists' after targeted operation near Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/efGDehAI3AHAz1p5n4Mx.png" alt=" Photograph: (AFP) ">
Israel Defence Force (IDF) concluded its operation around Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital by arresting around 240 alleged terrorists, including the hospital's director and other staff on Saturday (Dec 28), i24News reported. The development came just a day after the Israeli military launched targeted operations near the hospital in the northern Gaza Strip against Hamas infrastructures.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-troops-killing-themselves-rather-than-surrendering-to-ukraine-forces-claims-us-8573283" aria-label="N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US">N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/qP6Wf0QyiFoxlFJEmdAQ.jpg" alt=" Kirby says North Korean generals see their soldiers as expendable. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
North Korean troops deployed in Russia&rsquo;s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-half-a-million-people-stage-mass-rally-in-south-korea-demanding-removal-of-yoon-suk-yeol-8573806">Over half a million people stage mass rally in South Korea, demanding Yoon's removal</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/ZS9dKYaKe7Q7Ro9dQy0K.jpg" alt=" Protests in South Korea Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Amid the political unrest in South Korea, over half a million people protested in central Seoul on Saturday (Dec 28), demanding the removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gisele-pelicot-rape-case-at-least-15-convicts-appeal-for-retrial-8573997">Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal&nbsp;for&nbsp;retrial</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/8uQFEeMfGJUgbu2VjSPh.jpg" alt=" File image of Gisele Pelicot Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
At least 15 men convicted of raping or sexually abusing Gisele Pelicot have appealed against their sentences and will face a second trial.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-maga-laura-loomer-h-1b-indian-immigration-sriram-krishnan-us-news-8573773">&lsquo;I will go to war,&rsquo; Musk turns on MAGA over H-1B; far-right Loomer claims her X account &lsquo;censored&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/482ctfKfD70TjysiSoX6.jpg" alt=" Laura Loomer and Elon Musk Photograph: (Agencies) ">
A massive MAGA or Make America Great Again infighting is currently underway amongst the supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump. At the fulcrum of this debate lies the H-1B visa regime, long harnessed by skilled professionals from nations like India and China to get permits to work in the US.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-narendra-modi-meets-d-gukesh-after-world-chess-championship-triumph-hails-achievement-in-interaction-8573788" rel="dofollow">PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph</a><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/NsvJvqaggM8d28LJ96cK.png" alt=" PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph, hails achievement in interaction Photograph: (X) "> 
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 28) met World Chess Championship (WCC) winner D Gukesh after a successful triumph in Singapore earlier in the month. Gukesh, at 18 became the youngest WCC winner breaking the 40-year-old record of Garry Kasparov. After the triumph, he along with his parents met PM Modi at his New Delhi residence as the latter hailed his determination and dedication.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abetment-to-commit-suicide-sc-warns-punjab-govt-to-shift-farmer-leader-dallewal-to-hospital-8573388" rel="dofollow">'Abetment to suicide': SC warns Punjab govt to shift farmer leader Dallewal to hospital</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/0IiI0dhW3vk7bThHmlFC.jpg" alt=" Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal Photograph: (PTI) ">
Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Supreme Court on Saturday (Dec 28) warned the Punjab government to convince farmer leader&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-calls-for-independent-committee-amidst-deep-trust-deficit-in-farmers-protests-743846" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jagjit Singh Dallewal</a>, who has been on fast-unto-death for more than a month now, to move to a hospital before December 31.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<a class="gh-card-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/sikandar-teaser-salman-khan-fights-in-his-own-swag-and-style-watch-8573679" aria-label="Sikandar teaser: Salman Khan's action has swag and style | Watch">Sikandar teaser: Salman Khan's action has swag and style | Watch</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/pxR9yul0RDJg4p2MnzNZ.png" alt=" Salman Khan's till from Sikandar teaser Photograph: (X) ">
The wait is finally over! The much-awaited teaser of Salman Khan's&nbsp;Sikandar&nbsp;is out. The teaser was set to drop on the superstar's birthday on Dec 27. However, the release was delayed out of respect for the late former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Dec 26.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Here's a look at the top 10 world news from across the world.

Russia's Vladimir Putin on Saturday (December 28) dialed in Azeri president to apologise for the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash which resulted in the loss of 38 lives. In other news, Israel Defence Force (IDF) concluded its operation around Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital by arresting around 240 alleged terrorists, including the hospital's director and other staff on Saturday (Dec 28), i24News reported. Click on the headlines to read more: Azerbaijan plane crash: Putin dials Azeri Prez to apologise for 'tragic incident' that killed 38 Russia's Vladimir Putin on Saturday (December 28) dialed in Azeri president to apologise for the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash which resulted in the loss of 38 lives. Manmohan Singh Funeral: Last rites held at Nigambodh ghat in Delhi The last rites of India's former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh were held on Saturday (Dec 28) at 11:45 AM local time at New Delhi’s Nigambodh Ghat. IDF arrests 240 'terrorists' after targeted operation near Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital Israel Defence Force (IDF) concluded its operation around Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital by arresting around 240 alleged terrorists, including the hospital's director and other staff on Saturday (Dec 28), i24News reported. The development came just a day after the Israeli military launched targeted operations near the hospital in the northern Gaza Strip against Hamas infrastructures. N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US North Korean troops deployed in Russia’s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture. Over half a million people stage mass rally in South Korea, demanding Yoon's removal Amid the political unrest in South Korea, over half a million people protested in central Seoul on Saturday (Dec 28), demanding the removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal for retrial At least 15 men convicted of raping or sexually abusing Gisele Pelicot have appealed against their sentences and will face a second trial. ‘I will go to war,’ Musk turns on MAGA over H-1B; far-right Loomer claims her X account ‘censored’ A massive MAGA or Make America Great Again infighting is currently underway amongst the supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump. At the fulcrum of this debate lies the H-1B visa regime, long harnessed by skilled professionals from nations like India and China to get permits to work in the US. PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 28) met World Chess Championship (WCC) winner D Gukesh after a successful triumph in Singapore earlier in the month. Gukesh, at 18 became the youngest WCC winner breaking the 40-year-old record of Garry Kasparov. After the triumph, he along with his parents met PM Modi at his New Delhi residence as the latter hailed his determination and dedication. 'Abetment to suicide': SC warns Punjab govt to shift farmer leader Dallewal to hospital Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Supreme Court on Saturday (Dec 28) warned the Punjab government to convince farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on fast-unto-death for more than a month now, to move to a hospital before December 31. Sikandar teaser: Salman Khan's action has swag and style | Watch The wait is finally over! The much-awaited teaser of Salman Khan's Sikandar is out. The teaser was set to drop on the superstar's birthday on Dec 27. However, the release was delayed out of respect for the late former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Dec 26.

Top 10 world news: Putin apologises for Azerbaijan plane crash; Manmohan Singh's last rites held, and more

Mauritius foreign minister Dhananjay Ritish Ramful who is in India & attended the state funeral of former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has described the Indian leader as a "close friend" of his country. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Foreign minister Ramphul said, Dr Manmohan singh was "very instrumental in helping Mauritius on various projects...taxation treaty". The Mauritius Foreign minister joined Bhutan's King along with top Indian leadership, including President Murmu, PM Narendra Modi at the funeral in Delhi's Nigam Bodh Ghat. On Friday, the Mauritius Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam paid a visit to the Indian High Commission and paid his honor. The Mauritius govt as a mark of honor for the late Indian PM has said that the country's flags will be flown at half mast.

Dr. Manmohan Singh was a close friend of Mauritius says FM Dhananjay Ramphul

Israel- Houthi fighting intensifies amid deadly air strike

Israel- Houthi Fighting Intensifies Amid Deadly Air Strike

Germany reaches record high with 380k international students. Watch in for more details!

Germany attracts record foreign students

Israel Defence Force (IDF) concluded its operation around Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital by arresting around 240 alleged terrorists, including the hospital's director and other staff on Saturday (Dec 28).&nbsp;The development came just a day after the Israeli military launched targeted operations near the hospital in the northern Gaza Strip against Hamas infrastructures in the area.&nbsp;
Gaza's health ministry, run by the Palestinian militant group, previously accused Israeli troops of setting multiple areas of the hospital on fire while 15 patients and 60 health workers were inside.&nbsp;
The ministry even said that the troops took staff and patients outside and forced them to strip while it was freezing.&nbsp;
An unverified video circulated on social media showed patients and staff marching in front of an Israeli tank while most of them were shirtless.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-man-publicly-flogged-in-mosque-for-spending-time-alone-with-unrelated-woman-8572812" aria-label="Malaysian man publicly flogged in mosque for spending time alone with unrelated woman">Malaysian man publicly flogged in mosque for spending time alone with unrelated woman</a>
IDF said on Friday (Dec 27) that it has been conducting multiple targeted operations against Hamas infrastructures in northern Gaza. However, the military strictly denied the claim of entering the hospital.&nbsp;
UAE and Jordan Reacts&nbsp; The alleged act was condemned by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) saying it categorically rejects the "heinous act that violates international humanitarian law, and the systematic and reprehensible destruction of the remaining health system in the Strip".&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/what-is-the-uk-greyhound-racing-scandal-involving-the-illegal-use-of-norethisterone-8572699" aria-label="What is the UK greyhound racing scandal involving illegal hormone use?">What is the UK greyhound racing scandal involving illegal hormone use?</a>
Jordan also came forward and its foreign ministry released a statement saying the country &nbsp;&ldquo;condemns in the strongest terms the burning of Kamal Adwan Hospital in the northern Gaza Strip by the Israeli occupation forces, and forcing patients and medical staff to evacuate it".&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | Gaza health ministry, run by the Palestinian militant group, previously accused Israeli troops of setting multiple areas of the hospital on fire. 

Israel Defence Force (IDF) concluded its operation around Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital by arresting around 240 alleged terrorists, including the hospital's director and other staff on Saturday (Dec 28). The development came just a day after the Israeli military launched targeted operations near the hospital in the northern Gaza Strip against Hamas infrastructures in the area. Gaza's health ministry, run by the Palestinian militant group, previously accused Israeli troops of setting multiple areas of the hospital on fire while 15 patients and 60 health workers were inside. The ministry even said that the troops took staff and patients outside and forced them to strip while it was freezing. An unverified video circulated on social media showed patients and staff marching in front of an Israeli tank while most of them were shirtless. Also read | Malaysian man publicly flogged in mosque for spending time alone with unrelated woman IDF said on Friday (Dec 27) that it has been conducting multiple targeted operations against Hamas infrastructures in northern Gaza. However, the military strictly denied the claim of entering the hospital. UAE and Jordan Reacts The alleged act was condemned by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) saying it categorically rejects the "heinous act that violates international humanitarian law, and the systematic and reprehensible destruction of the remaining health system in the Strip". Also read | What is the UK greyhound racing scandal involving illegal hormone use? Jordan also came forward and its foreign ministry released a statement saying the country “condemns in the strongest terms the burning of Kamal Adwan Hospital in the northern Gaza Strip by the Israeli occupation forces, and forcing patients and medical staff to evacuate it". Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF arrests 240 'terrorists' after targeted operation near Gaza's Kamel Adwan Hospital

US President-elect Donald Trump could become the first elected politician in modern history to be hosted for two state visits by the British royal family, The Telegraph reported on Friday (Dec 27).
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gisele-pelicot-rape-case-at-least-15-convicts-appeal-for-retrial-8573997" aria-label="Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal&nbsp;for&nbsp;retrial">Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal&nbsp;for&nbsp;retrial</a>
Downing Street and the Foreign Office are preparing to offer the incoming&nbsp;US president an invitation once he is back in the White House, the report said, without citing specific sourcing. It quoted one source as saying no detailed discussions had yet taken place.
The Telegraph added that any such visit would be unlikely to happen until at least 2026, given the schedule of King Charles.
Britain's Foreign Office, Downing Street and the Trump transition team did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-rise-in-pro-khalistani-movements-rolled-over-in-2024-know-its-impact-on-india-canada-relations-8573892" aria-label="How rise in pro-Khalistani movements rolled over in India in 2024?">How rise in pro-Khalistani movements rolled over in India in 2024?</a>
Trump's three-day state visit in 2019 was cast at the time as a chance to celebrate Britain's "special relationship" with the&nbsp;U.S., boost trade links in a post-Brexit world, and reaffirm security cooperation.
<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>

The Telegraph added that any such visit would be unlikely to happen until at least 2026, given the schedule of King Charles.

US President-elect Donald Trump could become the first elected politician in modern history to be hosted for two state visits by the British royal family, The Telegraph reported on Friday (Dec 27). Also read | Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal for retrial Downing Street and the Foreign Office are preparing to offer the incoming US president an invitation once he is back in the White House, the report said, without citing specific sourcing. It quoted one source as saying no detailed discussions had yet taken place. The Telegraph added that any such visit would be unlikely to happen until at least 2026, given the schedule of King Charles. Britain's Foreign Office, Downing Street and the Trump transition team did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment. Also read | How rise in pro-Khalistani movements rolled over in India in 2024? Trump's three-day state visit in 2019 was cast at the time as a chance to celebrate Britain's "special relationship" with the U.S., boost trade links in a post-Brexit world, and reaffirm security cooperation. 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.

Trump may get second state visit invite to UK, but by 2026: Report

Russia's Vladimir Putin on Saturday (December 28) dialed in Azeri president to apologise for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-calls-for-thorough-investigation-into-azerbaijan-airlines-plane-crash-amid-reports-of-russian-involvement-8572078" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Azerbaijan Airlines</a>&nbsp;plane crash which resulted in the loss of 38 lives.
The Kremlin in an official statement said that Russian air defence forces were defending Ukrainian drone attacks when the aircraft was trying to land in Grozny in Russia.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/azerbaijan-airlines-crash-how-chechnya-bound-plane-crashed-in-kazakhstan" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: How Chechnya-bound plane crashed in Kazakhstan</a>
&ldquo;The Azerbaijani passenger aircraft, which was travelling according to its schedule, repeatedly tried to land at Grozny airport. At that time, Grozny, Mozdok and Vladikavkaz were being attacked by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, and Russian air defense systems repelled these attacks,&rdquo; the Kremlin said in a statement.
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">"(President) Vladimir Putin apologised for the tragic incident that occurred in Russian airspace and once again expressed his deep and sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured," it added.</div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD"></div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">The official statement from Kremlin,however, did not say that the plane had been struck by a Russian missile.
President Vladimir Putin also called for an "objective and transparent" investigation into the crash, as per the Kremlin statement.
"The Kazakh government commission tasked with investigating all the details of the incident will call on Russian, Azerbaijani and Brazilian experts... This work carried out on the Kazakhstan's territory will be objective and transparent," said the Kremlin.
</div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/azerbaijan-airlines-crash-airline-says-plane-crashed-due-to-external-interference-8571192" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference'</a></div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD"></div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">
<div data-testid="paragraph-6" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">As per Azerbaijan's presidential office, Azeri president, Ilham Aliyev said that the plane was "subjected to external physical and technical interference in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-released-a-video-slamming-unsafe-russian-fighter-jet-manoeuvre-near-alaska-763453" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russian airspace</a>, resulting in a complete loss of control and redirection to the Kazakh city of Aktau."</div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-6" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD"></div>
<div data-testid="paragraph-6" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">Earlier&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had called for a "thorough investigation" into the crash. "We can see how the clear visual evidence at the crash site points to Russia's responsibility for the tragedy. If Russia decides to spread lies in the same way that it did in the #MH17 case, we will need to consolidate all international pressure on Moscow in order to establish the truth and ensure accountability," he said in a post on social media platform X.</div>
</div>
<h2 data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">Azerbaijan plane crash: What we know?</h2>
<div data-testid="paragraph-3" class="text__text__1FZLe text__dark-grey__3Ml43 text__regular__2N1Xr text__small__1kGq2 body__full_width__ekUdw body__small_body__2vQyf article-body__paragraph__2-BtD">
In the early hours of Christmas Day, Flight J2-8243 departed from Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, carrying 67 passengers. The plane was scheduled to land in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, a Russian region where Ukrainian drones were targeting multiple cities. However, the aircraft was diverted to Aktau, a city in Kazakhstan, where it crashed.
</div>
<div class="ev-meter-content ie-premium-content-block">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

World: "(President) Vladimir Putin apologised for the tragic incident that occurred in Russian airspace and once again expressed his deep and sincere condolences," Kremlin said in a statement.

Russia's Vladimir Putin on Saturday (December 28) dialed in Azeri president to apologise for the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash which resulted in the loss of 38 lives. The Kremlin in an official statement said that Russian air defence forces were defending Ukrainian drone attacks when the aircraft was trying to land in Grozny in Russia. Also read: Azerbaijan Airlines crash: How Chechnya-bound plane crashed in Kazakhstan “The Azerbaijani passenger aircraft, which was travelling according to its schedule, repeatedly tried to land at Grozny airport. At that time, Grozny, Mozdok and Vladikavkaz were being attacked by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, and Russian air defense systems repelled these attacks,” the Kremlin said in a statement. "(President) Vladimir Putin apologised for the tragic incident that occurred in Russian airspace and once again expressed his deep and sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured," it added. The official statement from Kremlin,however, did not say that the plane had been struck by a Russian missile. President Vladimir Putin also called for an "objective and transparent" investigation into the crash, as per the Kremlin statement. "The Kazakh government commission tasked with investigating all the details of the incident will call on Russian, Azerbaijani and Brazilian experts... This work carried out on the Kazakhstan's territory will be objective and transparent," said the Kremlin. Also read: Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference' As per Azerbaijan's presidential office, Azeri president, Ilham Aliyev said that the plane was "subjected to external physical and technical interference in Russian airspace, resulting in a complete loss of control and redirection to the Kazakh city of Aktau." Earlier Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had called for a "thorough investigation" into the crash. "We can see how the clear visual evidence at the crash site points to Russia's responsibility for the tragedy. If Russia decides to spread lies in the same way that it did in the #MH17 case, we will need to consolidate all international pressure on Moscow in order to establish the truth and ensure accountability," he said in a post on social media platform X. Azerbaijan plane crash: What we know? In the early hours of Christmas Day, Flight J2-8243 departed from Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, carrying 67 passengers. The plane was scheduled to land in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, a Russian region where Ukrainian drones were targeting multiple cities. However, the aircraft was diverted to Aktau, a city in Kazakhstan, where it crashed. (With inputs from agencies)

Azerbaijan plane crash: Putin dials Azeri Prez to apologise for 'tragic incident' that killed 38

At least 15 men convicted of raping or sexually abusing Gisele Pelicot have appealed against their sentences and will face a second trial. 
On December 19, 51 men and Gisele's husband, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Dominique Pelicot</a>, were found guilty after a trial lasting three and a half months. They received prison terms ranging from three to 15 years.&nbsp;
Dominique Pelicot, who had admitted to drugging and raping his wife and allowing men to rape her, was sentenced to 20 years in prison. The court convicted 47 of the men of rape, two of attempted rape, and two of sexual assault.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sexual-violence-against-women-in-2024-from-kolkata-to-gisele-pelicot-rape-cases-a-year-of-horrors-8566863">Sexual violence against women in 2024: From Kolkata to Gisele Pelicot rape cases, a year of horrors</a>
The appeals will be heard in Nimes and all evidence presented in the original trial will be reviewed during the second hearing. These men had until Monday midnight to lodge their appeals in the court.
<h2>Did Dominique Pelicot also file an appeal?</h2>
It is unclear if Dominique Pelicot will also file an appeal with the court. His lawyer said after the initial verdict that she would discuss with her client whether to appeal.
Among those who have appealed is Charly Arbo, a 30-year-old vineyard worker who was sentenced to 13 years in prison. Arbo admitted visiting the Pelicots&rsquo; home in Mazan on six occasions. Video evidence showed that he had also participated in discussions with Dominique Pelicot about drugging and raping his own mother.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gisele-pelicot-her-scarf-some-days-a-shield-other-days-a-hug-785795">Gis&egrave;le Pelicot and her scarf: Some days a shield, other days a hug</a>
Another man who filed for appeal, Redouan El Farihi, a 55-year-old former anaesthesia nurse, was sentenced to eight years. El Farihi denied the charges, claiming he was &ldquo;tricked&rdquo; by Dominique Pelicot and unaware that Gisele had been drugged, despite video evidence showing her unconscious.
St&eacute;phane Babonneau, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-very-difficult-ordeal-gisele-pelicots-first-words-after-verdict-in-france-mass-rape-trial-785338">Gisele Pelicot&rsquo;s</a> lawyer, said that Gisele intends to attend the retrial, though not necessarily every day. &ldquo;She says she will go,&rdquo; Babonneau had said earlier after the trial ended.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Gisele Pelicot rape case: On December 19, 51 men, Gisele's husband, Dominique Pelicot, were found guilty after a trial lasting three and a half months.

At least 15 men convicted of raping or sexually abusing Gisele Pelicot have appealed against their sentences and will face a second trial. On December 19, 51 men and Gisele's husband, Dominique Pelicot, were found guilty after a trial lasting three and a half months. They received prison terms ranging from three to 15 years. Dominique Pelicot, who had admitted to drugging and raping his wife and allowing men to rape her, was sentenced to 20 years in prison. The court convicted 47 of the men of rape, two of attempted rape, and two of sexual assault. Also read: Sexual violence against women in 2024: From Kolkata to Gisele Pelicot rape cases, a year of horrors The appeals will be heard in Nimes and all evidence presented in the original trial will be reviewed during the second hearing. These men had until Monday midnight to lodge their appeals in the court. Did Dominique Pelicot also file an appeal? It is unclear if Dominique Pelicot will also file an appeal with the court. His lawyer said after the initial verdict that she would discuss with her client whether to appeal. Among those who have appealed is Charly Arbo, a 30-year-old vineyard worker who was sentenced to 13 years in prison. Arbo admitted visiting the Pelicots’ home in Mazan on six occasions. Video evidence showed that he had also participated in discussions with Dominique Pelicot about drugging and raping his own mother. Also read: Gisèle Pelicot and her scarf: Some days a shield, other days a hug Another man who filed for appeal, Redouan El Farihi, a 55-year-old former anaesthesia nurse, was sentenced to eight years. El Farihi denied the charges, claiming he was “tricked” by Dominique Pelicot and unaware that Gisele had been drugged, despite video evidence showing her unconscious. Stéphane Babonneau, Gisele Pelicot’s lawyer, said that Gisele intends to attend the retrial, though not necessarily every day. “She says she will go,” Babonneau had said earlier after the trial ended. (With inputs from agencies)

Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal for retrial

The Israel Defence Force (IDF) issued an urgent evacuation warning for northern Gaza residents after the army claimed that long-range rockets were fired from Gaza on Saturday (Dec 28). Israeli army's Arabic spokesperson Col Avichay Adraee published a map showing the areas that were ordered to be evacuated.&nbsp;
Adree said in a post on X showing the map, &ldquo;Urgent warning to all those who have not yet evacuated the area marked on the map, specifically the Beit Hanoun area. This area has been warned many times in the past. You must evacuate the area immediately and move south towards Salah a-Din road. Moving via another road exposes you to danger."
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-m58cqfsv-ep0dgnlh-j71jf3xu">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%AC%D9%84?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#عاجل</a> ‼️ انذار عاجل إلى كل من لم يخلي بعد المنطقة المحددة في الخريطة ومنطقة بيت حانون بالتحديد 🔴لقد تم تحذير هذه المنطقة مرات عديدة في الماضي 🔴يعمل جيش الدفاع في هذه المنطقة بقوة. 🔴عليكم اخلاء المنطقة فورًا والانتقال جنوبًا نحو طريق صلاح الدين. الانتقال عبر طريق آخر يعرضكم&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/UVgcMH8R9Z">pic.twitter.com/UVgcMH8R9Z</a>
&mdash; افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvichayAdraee/status/1873019816950260170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
IDF claimed that two long-range rockets were fired from the Beit Hanoun city of the strip. The alleged attack came hours after IDF launched an operation in the area against Hamas.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-plane-crash-putin-apologises-for-tragic-incident-says-were-repelling-ukrainian-attacks-8573809" aria-label="Azerbaijan plane crash: Putin dials Azeri Prez to apologise for 'tragic incident' that killed 38">Azerbaijan plane crash: Putin dials Azeri Prez to apologise for 'tragic incident' that killed 38</a>
No injuries were reported so far.&nbsp;
<h3>Hamas' allegation&nbsp;</h3>
Earlier in the day, the Israeli army rejected the claims that its troops set a Gaza hospital on fire while operating near it on Friday (Dec 27). The accusation came from Gaza's health ministry, which is run by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;
The IDF spokesperson Lt Col Nadav Shoshani said in a statement, "While IDF troops were not in the hospital, a small fire broke out in an empty building inside the hospital that is under control." He further added that an investigation confirmed "no connection" between the military and the fire.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-israel-uses-us-thaad-system-for-first-time-to-intercept-houthi-missile-what-is-it-8573666" aria-label="Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?">Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?</a>
IDF launched multiple targeted operations near Kamal Adwan Hospital against Hamas infrastructure in the area. &nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | The army said that both rockets were launched from the northern Gaza Strip in the Jerusalem area. It claimed to intercept the rockets. 

The Israel Defence Force (IDF) issued an urgent evacuation warning for northern Gaza residents after the army claimed that long-range rockets were fired from Gaza on Saturday (Dec 28). Israeli army's Arabic spokesperson Col Avichay Adraee published a map showing the areas that were ordered to be evacuated. Adree said in a post on X showing the map, “Urgent warning to all those who have not yet evacuated the area marked on the map, specifically the Beit Hanoun area. This area has been warned many times in the past. You must evacuate the area immediately and move south towards Salah a-Din road. Moving via another road exposes you to danger." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. #عاجل ‼️ انذار عاجل إلى كل من لم يخلي بعد المنطقة المحددة في الخريطة ومنطقة بيت حانون بالتحديد 🔴لقد تم تحذير هذه المنطقة مرات عديدة في الماضي 🔴يعمل جيش الدفاع في هذه المنطقة بقوة. 🔴عليكم اخلاء المنطقة فورًا والانتقال جنوبًا نحو طريق صلاح الدين. الانتقال عبر طريق آخر يعرضكم… pic.twitter.com/UVgcMH8R9Z — افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) December 28, 2024 IDF claimed that two long-range rockets were fired from the Beit Hanoun city of the strip. The alleged attack came hours after IDF launched an operation in the area against Hamas. Also read | Azerbaijan plane crash: Putin dials Azeri Prez to apologise for 'tragic incident' that killed 38 No injuries were reported so far. Hamas' allegation Earlier in the day, the Israeli army rejected the claims that its troops set a Gaza hospital on fire while operating near it on Friday (Dec 27). The accusation came from Gaza's health ministry, which is run by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The IDF spokesperson Lt Col Nadav Shoshani said in a statement, "While IDF troops were not in the hospital, a small fire broke out in an empty building inside the hospital that is under control." He further added that an investigation confirmed "no connection" between the military and the fire. Also read | Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it? IDF launched multiple targeted operations near Kamal Adwan Hospital against Hamas infrastructure in the area. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF intercepts 2 rockets launched from Gaza to Jerusalem, issues urgent evacuation order for Beit Hanoun

Yemen releases cctv of Israeli strike on airport. Watch to know more.

Houthis launch fresh strikes on Israel

Georgia is gearing up for Sunday's inauguration of a ruling party loyalist as president, after his election was declared "illegitimate" by the outgoing leader and the pro-Western opposition.

Georgia's ruling party to inaugurate disputed president amid political crisis

Mexico has developed a mobile application aimed at assisting migrants who fear imminent detention by the US immigration authorities and will allow them to warn relatives and local consulates, Foreign Affairs Secretary Juan Ramón de la Fuente announced on Friday.

App Will Help Send Alerts To Mexican Consulate

Amid the political unrest in South Korea, over half a million people protested in central Seoul on Saturday (Dec 28), demanding the removal of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Yoon+suk+yeol" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yoon Suk Yeol.&nbsp;</a>
This comes a day after parliament voted to impeach his acting replacement Han Duck-soo.&nbsp;
More than 500,000 people participated in the rally, according to the organisers.&nbsp;
The country is facing political turmoil since Yoon's failed declaration of martial law on December 3.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-south-korean-prosecutors-accuse-yoon-of-authorising-shooting-in-martial-law-bid-8573245" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> South Korean prosecutors accuse Yoon Suk Yeol of authorising 'shooting' in martial law bid</a>
Protesters were seen chanting "imprison Yoon Suk Yeol", as they marched from Gyeongbokgung Palace toward the Myeongdong shopping district.&nbsp;
Moreover, many of the protesters were also seen singing to K-pop music blasting from speaker trucks in what has now become a characteristic mix of celebration and spreading political messages.&nbsp;
<h2>Lawmakers impeach Han Duck-soo</h2>
Earlier on Friday, South Korean lawmakers impeached acting President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Han+Duck-soo" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Han Duck-soo</a>, leaving Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok to serve as the country's acting president.&nbsp;
The move came after Han declined to appoint replacements for three vacant positions in the Constitutional Court, which is responsible for presiding over President Yoon&rsquo;s impeachment trial.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-choi-sang-mok-south-koreas-new-acting-president-who-vowed-to-overcome-political-turmoil-8570988" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vows to overcome political&nbsp;turmoil</a>
In response to the decision, Han said he would comply with the outcome. "In order to avoid further chaos and uncertainty, I will suspend my duties in accordance with relevant laws," he said.
Meanwhile, the constitutional court has now only six of its nine seats filled, however, it required at least six votes to uphold Yoon's removal from office, which means that a single dissenting voice could save his presidency.&nbsp;
The Court held its first hearing on Friday to determine whether to reinstate Yoon or permanently remove him from office. Further, it has up to 180 days to reach a conclusion.
As a safety measure, the court building is also barricaded by police buses and has been heavily guarded.&nbsp;
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung sat on the ground with protesters at the anti-Yoon rally.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Many of the protesters were also seen singing to K-pop music blasting from speaker trucks in what has now become a characteristic mix of spreading political messages. 

Amid the political unrest in South Korea, over half a million people protested in central Seoul on Saturday (Dec 28), demanding the removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol. This comes a day after parliament voted to impeach his acting replacement Han Duck-soo. More than 500,000 people participated in the rally, according to the organisers. The country is facing political turmoil since Yoon's failed declaration of martial law on December 3. Also read: South Korean prosecutors accuse Yoon Suk Yeol of authorising 'shooting' in martial law bid Protesters were seen chanting "imprison Yoon Suk Yeol", as they marched from Gyeongbokgung Palace toward the Myeongdong shopping district. Moreover, many of the protesters were also seen singing to K-pop music blasting from speaker trucks in what has now become a characteristic mix of celebration and spreading political messages. Lawmakers impeach Han Duck-soo Earlier on Friday, South Korean lawmakers impeached acting President Han Duck-soo, leaving Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok to serve as the country's acting president. The move came after Han declined to appoint replacements for three vacant positions in the Constitutional Court, which is responsible for presiding over President Yoon’s impeachment trial. Also read: Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vows to overcome political turmoil In response to the decision, Han said he would comply with the outcome. "In order to avoid further chaos and uncertainty, I will suspend my duties in accordance with relevant laws," he said. Meanwhile, the constitutional court has now only six of its nine seats filled, however, it required at least six votes to uphold Yoon's removal from office, which means that a single dissenting voice could save his presidency. The Court held its first hearing on Friday to determine whether to reinstate Yoon or permanently remove him from office. Further, it has up to 180 days to reach a conclusion. As a safety measure, the court building is also barricaded by police buses and has been heavily guarded. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung sat on the ground with protesters at the anti-Yoon rally. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea protests: Over half a million people stage mass rally demanding Yoon's removal

The Israeli military unleashed a significant air assault on parts of Yemen controlled by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia in retaliation for the group’s missile attacks against Israel, striking back at an adversary more than a thousand miles away.

Yemen: Israel bombs Yemen's Sanaa airport

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has called for an end to the recent wave of mass killings that has alarmed the nation, instructing local governments to prevent future "extreme cases." While incidents involving drivers plowing into pedestrians or knife-wielding attackers are not uncommon in China, the recent surge has drawn heightened attention. Watch to know more!

China’s Xi Jinping vows to stop ‘revenge on society crimes’ mass killings

An Azerbaijan Airlines flight was en route from Baku to Grozny in Russia when it crashed over Kazakhstan on 25 December. It was carrying 62 passengers and five crew members. The crash near Aktau city in Kazakhstan, which resulted in the deaths of 38 passengers, was likely caused by an attack. However, authorities in Russia and Azerbaijan have provided different explanations regarding the possible causes of the crash Watch this report for more details!

Azerbaijan Airlines crash: how Chechnya-bound plane crashed in Kazakhstan

South Korea's opposition-controlled parliament has impeached the acting president, throwing the country into further political turmoil. Watch in for more details!

Political Turmoil Deepens In South Korea

A man was flogged inside a Malaysia mosque on Friday after being convicted of an Islamic offence for spending time alone with a woman who was neither his wife nor relative, state news said.

Malaysian man publicly flogged in mosque

world

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