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From tiny and impoverished Mayotte to oil-rich behemoth Saudi Arabia, prosperous European cities to overcrowded slums in Africa, nowhere was spared the devastating impact of supercharged climate disasters in 2024.
This year is the hottest in history, with record-breaking temperatures in the atmosphere and oceans acting like fuel for extreme weather around the world.
World Weather Attribution, experts on how global warming influences extreme events, said nearly every disaster they analysed over the past 12 months was intensified by climate change.
"The impacts of fossil fuel warming have never been clearer or more devastating than in 2024. We are living in a dangerous new era," said climate scientist Friederike Otto, who leads the WWA network.
<h2>Heat</h2>
That was tragically evident in June when more than 1,300 people died during the Muslim hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia where temperatures hit 51.8 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit).
Extreme heat -- sometimes dubbed the 'silent killer' -- also proved deadly in Thailand, India, and United States.
Conditions were so intense in Mexico that howler monkeys dropped dead from the trees, while Pakistan kept millions of children at home as the mercury inched above 50C.
Greece recorded its earliest ever heatwave, forcing the closure of its famed Acropolis and fanning terrible wildfires, at the outset of Europe's hottest summer yet.
<h2>Floods</h2>
Climate change isn't just sizzling temperatures -- warmer oceans mean higher evaporation, and warmer air absorbs more moisture, a volatile recipe for heavy rainfall.
In April, the United Arab Emirates received two years worth of rain in a single day, turning parts of the desert-state into a sea, and hobbling Dubai's international airport.
Kenya was barely out of a once-in-a-generation drought when the worst floods in decades delivered back-to-back disasters for the East African nation.
Four million people needed aid after historic flooding killed more than 1,500 people across West and Central Africa. Europe -- most notably Spain -- also suffered tremendous downpours that caused deadly flash flooding.
Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil, China, Nepal, Uganda, India, Somalia, Pakistan, Burundi and the United States were among other countries that witnessed flooding in 2024.
<h2>Cyclones</h2>
Warmer ocean surfaces feed energy into tropical cyclones as they barrel toward land, whipping up fierce winds and their destructive potential.
Major hurricanes pummelled the United States and Caribbean, most notably Milton, Beryl and Helene, in a 2024 season of above-average storm activity.
The Philippines endured six major storms in November alone, just two months after suffering Typhoon Yagi as it tore through Southeast Asia.
In December, scientists said global warming had helped intensify Cyclone Chino to a Category 4 storm as it collided head-on with Mayotte, devastating France's poorest overseas territory.
<h2>Droughts and wildfires</h2>
Some regions may be wetter as climate change shifts rainfall patterns, but others are becoming drier and more vulnerable to drought.
The Americas suffered severe drought in 2024 and wildfires torched millions of hectares in the western United States, Canada, and the Amazon basin -- usually one of Earth's wettest places.
Between January and September, more than 400,000 fires were recorded across South America, shrouding the continent in choking smoke.&nbsp;
The World Food Programme in December said 26 million people across southern Africa were at risk of hunger as a months-long drought parched the impoverished region.
<h2>Economic toll&nbsp;</h2>
Extreme weather cost thousands of lives in 2024 and left countless more in desperate poverty. The lasting toll of such disasters is impossible to quantify.
In terms of economic losses, Zurich-based reinsurance giant Swiss Re estimated the global damage bill at $310 billion, a statement issued early December.
Flooding in Europe -- particularly in the Spanish province of Valencia, where over 200 people died in October -- and hurricanes Helene and Milton drove up the cost, the company said.
As of November 1, the United States had suffered 24 weather disasters in 2024 with losses exceeding $1 billion each, government figures showed.
Drought in Brazil cost its farming sector $2.7 billion between June and August, while "climatic challenges" drove global wine production to its lowest level since 1961, an industry body said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Climate change isn't just sizzling temperatures -- warmer oceans mean higher evaporation, and warmer air absorbs more moisture, a volatile recipe for heavy rainfall.

From tiny and impoverished Mayotte to oil-rich behemoth Saudi Arabia, prosperous European cities to overcrowded slums in Africa, nowhere was spared the devastating impact of supercharged climate disasters in 2024. This year is the hottest in history, with record-breaking temperatures in the atmosphere and oceans acting like fuel for extreme weather around the world. World Weather Attribution, experts on how global warming influences extreme events, said nearly every disaster they analysed over the past 12 months was intensified by climate change. "The impacts of fossil fuel warming have never been clearer or more devastating than in 2024. We are living in a dangerous new era," said climate scientist Friederike Otto, who leads the WWA network. Heat That was tragically evident in June when more than 1,300 people died during the Muslim hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia where temperatures hit 51.8 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit). Extreme heat -- sometimes dubbed the 'silent killer' -- also proved deadly in Thailand, India, and United States. Conditions were so intense in Mexico that howler monkeys dropped dead from the trees, while Pakistan kept millions of children at home as the mercury inched above 50C. Greece recorded its earliest ever heatwave, forcing the closure of its famed Acropolis and fanning terrible wildfires, at the outset of Europe's hottest summer yet. Floods Climate change isn't just sizzling temperatures -- warmer oceans mean higher evaporation, and warmer air absorbs more moisture, a volatile recipe for heavy rainfall. In April, the United Arab Emirates received two years worth of rain in a single day, turning parts of the desert-state into a sea, and hobbling Dubai's international airport. Kenya was barely out of a once-in-a-generation drought when the worst floods in decades delivered back-to-back disasters for the East African nation. Four million people needed aid after historic flooding killed more than 1,500 people across West and Central Africa. Europe -- most notably Spain -- also suffered tremendous downpours that caused deadly flash flooding. Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil, China, Nepal, Uganda, India, Somalia, Pakistan, Burundi and the United States were among other countries that witnessed flooding in 2024. Cyclones Warmer ocean surfaces feed energy into tropical cyclones as they barrel toward land, whipping up fierce winds and their destructive potential. Major hurricanes pummelled the United States and Caribbean, most notably Milton, Beryl and Helene, in a 2024 season of above-average storm activity. The Philippines endured six major storms in November alone, just two months after suffering Typhoon Yagi as it tore through Southeast Asia. In December, scientists said global warming had helped intensify Cyclone Chino to a Category 4 storm as it collided head-on with Mayotte, devastating France's poorest overseas territory. Droughts and wildfires Some regions may be wetter as climate change shifts rainfall patterns, but others are becoming drier and more vulnerable to drought. The Americas suffered severe drought in 2024 and wildfires torched millions of hectares in the western United States, Canada, and the Amazon basin -- usually one of Earth's wettest places. Between January and September, more than 400,000 fires were recorded across South America, shrouding the continent in choking smoke. The World Food Programme in December said 26 million people across southern Africa were at risk of hunger as a months-long drought parched the impoverished region. Economic toll Extreme weather cost thousands of lives in 2024 and left countless more in desperate poverty. The lasting toll of such disasters is impossible to quantify. In terms of economic losses, Zurich-based reinsurance giant Swiss Re estimated the global damage bill at $310 billion, a statement issued early December. Flooding in Europe -- particularly in the Spanish province of Valencia, where over 200 people died in October -- and hurricanes Helene and Milton drove up the cost, the company said. As of November 1, the United States had suffered 24 weather disasters in 2024 with losses exceeding $1 billion each, government figures showed. Drought in Brazil cost its farming sector $2.7 billion between June and August, while "climatic challenges" drove global wine production to its lowest level since 1961, an industry body said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Year 2024 saw devastating impact of supercharged climate disasters

Italy said on Friday it was making every effort to bring home a journalist who has been under arrest in Iran for more than a week, as politicians of all stripes expressed their concern.
Cecilia Sala, 29, who works for the newspaper Il Foglio and the podcast company Chora Media, was detained in Tehran on Dec. 19 but her arrest was only made public on Friday. The Italian foreign ministry said it was in contact with Iran to clarify Sala's legal situation and the conditions of her detention.
"Italy is working tirelessly to free her, pursuing every option," Defence Minister Guido Crosetto - a key figure in Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government - wrote on the social media platform X, calling the arrest "unacceptable".
Chora Media said Sala had left Rome for Iran on Dec. 12 with a valid journalist visa and had conducted several interviews and produced three episodes of her "Stories" podcast. She had been due to fly back to Rome on Dec. 20.
It added that Sala was being held in solitary confinement in Tehran's Evin prison and no reason had been given for her arrest. There was no immediate confirmation of the arrest by Iranian officials.
It was not clear whether it might be linked to tensions between Rome and Tehran after Iran last week summoned a senior Italian diplomat and the Swiss ambassador, who represents US interests in the country, over the arrest of two Iranian nationals. One of the men was arrested in Italy at Washington's request.
Italy's ambassador to Iran visited Sala in prison on Friday and the journalist has also been in phone contact with her family, the Italian foreign ministry said.
Italian sources with knowledge of the matter said she was "very tired" but "physically fine".
Chora said news of Sala's arrest was not immediately made public as her family and Italian authorities had hoped that keeping it quiet could help secure her swift release.
Elly Schlein, leader of the centre-left opposition Democratic Party, urged the government to act swiftly.
"We immediately call on the government to take every useful initiative to shed light on this matter, to clarify the reasons for this detention and, above all, to bring Cecilia Sala back to Italy as soon as possible," she said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italy's ambassador to Iran visited Sala in prison on Friday and the journalist has also been in phone contact with her family, the Italian foreign ministry said.

Italy said on Friday it was making every effort to bring home a journalist who has been under arrest in Iran for more than a week, as politicians of all stripes expressed their concern. Cecilia Sala, 29, who works for the newspaper Il Foglio and the podcast company Chora Media, was detained in Tehran on Dec. 19 but her arrest was only made public on Friday. The Italian foreign ministry said it was in contact with Iran to clarify Sala's legal situation and the conditions of her detention. "Italy is working tirelessly to free her, pursuing every option," Defence Minister Guido Crosetto - a key figure in Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government - wrote on the social media platform X, calling the arrest "unacceptable". Chora Media said Sala had left Rome for Iran on Dec. 12 with a valid journalist visa and had conducted several interviews and produced three episodes of her "Stories" podcast. She had been due to fly back to Rome on Dec. 20. It added that Sala was being held in solitary confinement in Tehran's Evin prison and no reason had been given for her arrest. There was no immediate confirmation of the arrest by Iranian officials. It was not clear whether it might be linked to tensions between Rome and Tehran after Iran last week summoned a senior Italian diplomat and the Swiss ambassador, who represents US interests in the country, over the arrest of two Iranian nationals. One of the men was arrested in Italy at Washington's request. Italy's ambassador to Iran visited Sala in prison on Friday and the journalist has also been in phone contact with her family, the Italian foreign ministry said. Italian sources with knowledge of the matter said she was "very tired" but "physically fine". Chora said news of Sala's arrest was not immediately made public as her family and Italian authorities had hoped that keeping it quiet could help secure her swift release. Elly Schlein, leader of the centre-left opposition Democratic Party, urged the government to act swiftly. "We immediately call on the government to take every useful initiative to shed light on this matter, to clarify the reasons for this detention and, above all, to bring Cecilia Sala back to Italy as soon as possible," she said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Working tirelessly to free Italian journalist arrested in Iran: Rome

Israeli Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara late Thursday (Dec 26) ordered the police to open an investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wife Sara on the suspicion of harassing political opponents in the PM's corruption trial.&nbsp;
According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Attorney General Miara said that the investigation would focus on the findings of a recent report by the &ldquo;Uvda&rdquo; investigative program into Sara Netanyahu.
The investigative program uncovered a trove of WhatsApp messages in which Sara appeared to instruct a former aide to organise protests against political opponents and to intimidate Hadas Klein, a key witness in Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial.
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In the trial, PM Netanyahu is charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in a series of cases alleging he exchanged favours with powerful media moguls and wealthy associates.
<h2>Who is the former aide?</h2>
The former aide has been identified as&nbsp;Hanni Bleiweiss who died of cancer last year. The Uvda report said that in the WhatsApp messages, Sara, through Bleiweiss, encouraged police to crack down violently on anti-government protesters and ordered Bleiweiss to organise protests against her husband&rsquo;s critics.&nbsp;
She also told Bleiweiss to get activists in Netanyahu&rsquo;s Likud party to publish attacks on Klein.
Bleiweiss also was instructed to organize demonstrations outside the homes of the lead prosecutor in the corruption case, Liat Ben-Ari, and then-Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who had issued the indictments, and protests and social media campaigns smearing political opponents.
<h2>'They mercilessly attack my wife'</h2>
Benjamin Netanyahu called the Uvda program "false propaganda, nasty propaganda that brings up lies from the darkness.&rdquo;
&ldquo;My opponents on the left and in the media found a new-old target. They mercilessly attack my wife, Sara,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu called the Uvda program (the investigation into his wife Sara) "false propaganda, nasty propaganda that brings up lies from the darkness.”

Israeli Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara late Thursday (Dec 26) ordered the police to open an investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wife Sara on the suspicion of harassing political opponents in the PM's corruption trial. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Attorney General Miara said that the investigation would focus on the findings of a recent report by the “Uvda” investigative program into Sara Netanyahu. The investigative program uncovered a trove of WhatsApp messages in which Sara appeared to instruct a former aide to organise protests against political opponents and to intimidate Hadas Klein, a key witness in Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says 'some progress' made on Gaza hostage deal In the trial, PM Netanyahu is charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in a series of cases alleging he exchanged favours with powerful media moguls and wealthy associates. Who is the former aide? The former aide has been identified as Hanni Bleiweiss who died of cancer last year. The Uvda report said that in the WhatsApp messages, Sara, through Bleiweiss, encouraged police to crack down violently on anti-government protesters and ordered Bleiweiss to organise protests against her husband’s critics. She also told Bleiweiss to get activists in Netanyahu’s Likud party to publish attacks on Klein. Bleiweiss also was instructed to organize demonstrations outside the homes of the lead prosecutor in the corruption case, Liat Ben-Ari, and then-Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who had issued the indictments, and protests and social media campaigns smearing political opponents. 'They mercilessly attack my wife' Benjamin Netanyahu called the Uvda program "false propaganda, nasty propaganda that brings up lies from the darkness.” “My opponents on the left and in the media found a new-old target. They mercilessly attack my wife, Sara,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli attorney general orders cops to open probe into Netanyahu's wife because of THIS reason

A Russian court on Friday sentenced a singer who burned his passport in protest at Moscow's Ukraine offensive to five and a half years in prison.
Eduard Sharlot, 26, was found guilty of "publicly insulting" the religious feelings of believers and "rehabilitating Naziism" by a court in the Volga city of Samara in a case over videos he published online, the RIA Novosti state news agency reported.
Moscow has sentenced dozens of people to years in prison for publicly opposing its offensive on Ukraine, launched in February 2022.
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&nbsp;singer had posted a video in June 2023 in which he burned his Russian passport in protest at the military campaign.
In another video, he nailed a photograph of Patriarch Kirill, the head of Russia's Orthodox Church that has staunchly backed the offensive, to a crucifix.
Sharlot initially left Russia for Armenia after the offensive but was arrested at Saint Petersburg airport in November 2023 upon his attempted return to Russia.
Since ordering troops into Ukraine, Russia has tightened its laws against domestic dissent and stepped up a campaign to arrest and imprison people who criticise its actions in Ukraine.
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Virtually all Kremlin opponents are either dead, in exile or behind bars.
<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>

Sharlot initially left Russia for Armenia after the offensive but was arrested at Saint Petersburg airport in November 2023 upon his attempted return to Russia.

A Russian court on Friday sentenced a singer who burned his passport in protest at Moscow's Ukraine offensive to five and a half years in prison. Eduard Sharlot, 26, was found guilty of "publicly insulting" the religious feelings of believers and "rehabilitating Naziism" by a court in the Volga city of Samara in a case over videos he published online, the RIA Novosti state news agency reported. Moscow has sentenced dozens of people to years in prison for publicly opposing its offensive on Ukraine, launched in February 2022. Also read | Over 6,000 prisoners escape Mozambique prison amid unrest in country singer had posted a video in June 2023 in which he burned his Russian passport in protest at the military campaign. In another video, he nailed a photograph of Patriarch Kirill, the head of Russia's Orthodox Church that has staunchly backed the offensive, to a crucifix. Sharlot initially left Russia for Armenia after the offensive but was arrested at Saint Petersburg airport in November 2023 upon his attempted return to Russia. Since ordering troops into Ukraine, Russia has tightened its laws against domestic dissent and stepped up a campaign to arrest and imprison people who criticise its actions in Ukraine. Also read | China sanctions seven military firms over US aid to Taiwan Virtually all Kremlin opponents are either dead, in exile or behind bars. 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 sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive

More than 6,000 prisoners escaped from a prison near Maputo on Wednesday, taking advantage of the third day of unrest triggered by the controversial confirmation of the long-ruling Frelimo party as the winner of recent elections.
The detainees escaped the high-security prison located about 15 kilometers from the capital, national police chief Bernardino Rafael said at a press conference.
Among those attempting to escape, 33 were killed and 15 were wounded in clashes with prison staff, he added.
A search, backed by the army, led to the arrests of about 150 fugitives, he said.
About 30 of the prisoners were linked to armed groups that have been behind unrest and attacks in the northern province of Cabo Delgado for the past seven years.
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"We are particularly concerned about this situation," Rafael said.
The Portuguese-speaking African country's highest court confirmed on Monday that Frelimo, in power since 1975, won the October 9 presidential election, which had already triggered weeks of unrest.
Groups of protesters approached the penitentiary on Wednesday, creating confusion and triggering unrest inside, where inmates ended up knocking down a wall through which they escaped, Rafael said.
Barricades remained in several areas of the capital Wednesday, limiting movements, as acts of vandalism continued.
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In addition to the ransacking of stores and public buildings Monday, ambulances were set ablaze along with a drugstore and other businesses, according to an AFP correspondent.
Some demonstrators also set up tables in the streets to occupy the space while celebrating Christmas with family or neighbors, an AFP journalist witnessed in several working-class districts of Maputo.
Monday's confirmation of the election results came despite claims of irregularities from many observers.
Frelimo leader Daniel Chapo won 65.17% of the vote, about 5 percentage points less than the initial results declared by the country's electoral commission.
Chapo's main challenger, exiled opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, has claimed the election was rigged, sparking fears of violence between rival party supporters.
The unrest has led to the deaths of at least 150 people, according to reports from several nongovernmental organizations.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The detainees escaped the high-security prison located about 15 kilometers from the capital, national police chief Bernardino Rafael said at a press conference.

More than 6,000 prisoners escaped from a prison near Maputo on Wednesday, taking advantage of the third day of unrest triggered by the controversial confirmation of the long-ruling Frelimo party as the winner of recent elections. The detainees escaped the high-security prison located about 15 kilometers from the capital, national police chief Bernardino Rafael said at a press conference. Among those attempting to escape, 33 were killed and 15 were wounded in clashes with prison staff, he added. A search, backed by the army, led to the arrests of about 150 fugitives, he said. About 30 of the prisoners were linked to armed groups that have been behind unrest and attacks in the northern province of Cabo Delgado for the past seven years. Also read: Twenty-one killed in unrest after Mozambique's top court confirms Frelimo's election victory "We are particularly concerned about this situation," Rafael said. The Portuguese-speaking African country's highest court confirmed on Monday that Frelimo, in power since 1975, won the October 9 presidential election, which had already triggered weeks of unrest. Groups of protesters approached the penitentiary on Wednesday, creating confusion and triggering unrest inside, where inmates ended up knocking down a wall through which they escaped, Rafael said. Barricades remained in several areas of the capital Wednesday, limiting movements, as acts of vandalism continued. Also read: Mozambique’s Daniel Chapo elected incoming president amid political unrest In addition to the ransacking of stores and public buildings Monday, ambulances were set ablaze along with a drugstore and other businesses, according to an AFP correspondent. Some demonstrators also set up tables in the streets to occupy the space while celebrating Christmas with family or neighbors, an AFP journalist witnessed in several working-class districts of Maputo. Monday's confirmation of the election results came despite claims of irregularities from many observers. Frelimo leader Daniel Chapo won 65.17% of the vote, about 5 percentage points less than the initial results declared by the country's electoral commission. Chapo's main challenger, exiled opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, has claimed the election was rigged, sparking fears of violence between rival party supporters. The unrest has led to the deaths of at least 150 people, according to reports from several nongovernmental organizations. 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.

Over 6,000 prisoners escape Mozambique prison amid unrest in country

China has sanctioned seven military-industrial companies and related senior executives over U.S. arms assistance and sales to Taiwan, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Friday.
Boeing subsidiary Insitu Inc., RTX Inc.'s Raytheon Canada and Raytheon Australia, as well as Hudson Technologies Co. are among the companies listed by the ministry in a statement.
The US recently approved USD 571.3 million in defence support for Taiwan, after giving the go-ahead to arms sales worth an estimated USD 385 million.
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China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan strongly objects to China's sovereignty claims and says only the island's people can decide their future.
The US is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties between Washington and Taipei.
The sanctions will freeze the companies and executives' assets in China and ban organizations and individuals in China from trading or collaborating with them, the ministry said.
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The US move "seriously undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," a ministry spokesperson said in a regular press briefing on Friday.
China urges the US to abide by the one-China principle and stop arming Taiwan, the spokesperson Mao Ning said, adding that Beijing will "take all necessary measures" to safeguard its security and interests.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Boeing subsidiary Insitu Inc., RTX Inc.'s Raytheon Canada and Raytheon Australia, as well as Hudson Technologies Co. are among the companies listed by the ministry.

China has sanctioned seven military-industrial companies and related senior executives over U.S. arms assistance and sales to Taiwan, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Friday. Boeing subsidiary Insitu Inc., RTX Inc.'s Raytheon Canada and Raytheon Australia, as well as Hudson Technologies Co. are among the companies listed by the ministry in a statement. The US recently approved USD 571.3 million in defence support for Taiwan, after giving the go-ahead to arms sales worth an estimated USD 385 million. Also read: China 'firmly opposes' outgoing US President Biden's approval of $571.3 million military aid for Taiwan China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan strongly objects to China's sovereignty claims and says only the island's people can decide their future. The US is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties between Washington and Taipei. The sanctions will freeze the companies and executives' assets in China and ban organizations and individuals in China from trading or collaborating with them, the ministry said. Also read: Pentagon releases annual report on China's military developments showing disturbing rise in nukes The US move "seriously undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," a ministry spokesperson said in a regular press briefing on Friday. China urges the US to abide by the one-China principle and stop arming Taiwan, the spokesperson Mao Ning said, adding that Beijing will "take all necessary measures" to safeguard its security and interests. 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.

China sanctions seven military firms over US aid to Taiwan

Israeli forces evacuated one of northern Gaza's last functioning hospitals on Friday (Dec 27), according to the medics. Further, all kinds of communications were disabled with Palestinian medical staff, patients and journalists.&nbsp;
Kamal Adwan Hospital located in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, was evacuated by the Israeli occupation forces.&nbsp;
The head of the nursing department at the hospital, Eid Sabbah, said that at around 7 pm, the military gave the administration 15 minutes to evacuate patients and staff into its courtyard.
Following this, the Israeli military entered the hospital and evacuated the remaining patients, Sabbah said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-week-old-baby-girl-freezes-to-death-in-gaza-while-israel-and-hamas-trade-blames-of-ceasefire-delay-8568285" rel="dofollow">Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay</a>
Earlier today, the Israeli military said that it was carrying out an operation in the area of the hospital, which it called a "Hamas terrorist stronghold".
It added that the troops had "facilitated the secure evacuation of civilians, patients and medical personnel" from the hospital before beginning the operation.&nbsp;
The Israeli military, however, did not mention where the patients would be taken. However, earlier this week, an Israeli official said that they intend to relocate the people at the Kamal Adwan Hospital to the nearby Indonesian hospital.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-strikes-against-sanaa-international-airport-in-yemen-say-reports-8568360">West Asia crisis: Israel launches multiple strikes in Yemen, three killed</a>
"It's dangerous because there are patients in the ICU department in a coma and in need of ventilation machines and moving them will put them in danger," Dr Sabbah said, adding, "If the army intends to continue removing these patients, they will need specialised vehicles."
This comes a day after an Israeli air strike on the hospital killed approximately 50 people, including five Palestinians staff members of the hospital.&nbsp;
A building opposite the hospital was targeted by Israeli warplanes, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya said, adding that the attack led to the death of a paediatrician and a lab technician, as well as their families.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062" rel="dofollow">Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam</a>
<h2>Hamas remains the obstacle</h2>
As the ceasefire talks continue between Israel and Hamas, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby on Friday said that Hamas remains the main obstacle to a deal.&nbsp;
He stressed that the US efforts to secure a deal continue and that it will not give up.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886" rel="dofollow">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a>
&ldquo;It is because of Hamas throwing up obstacles or refusing to move on any of these details that we are still not at a conclusion,&rdquo; Kirby says during a press briefing.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re very, very close,&rdquo; he added.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The head of the nursing department at the Kamal Adwan Hospital, said that the military gave the administration 15 minutes to evacuate patients and staff into its courtyard.

Israeli forces evacuated one of northern Gaza's last functioning hospitals on Friday (Dec 27), according to the medics. Further, all kinds of communications were disabled with Palestinian medical staff, patients and journalists. Kamal Adwan Hospital located in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, was evacuated by the Israeli occupation forces. The head of the nursing department at the hospital, Eid Sabbah, said that at around 7 pm, the military gave the administration 15 minutes to evacuate patients and staff into its courtyard. Following this, the Israeli military entered the hospital and evacuated the remaining patients, Sabbah said. Also read: Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay Earlier today, the Israeli military said that it was carrying out an operation in the area of the hospital, which it called a "Hamas terrorist stronghold". It added that the troops had "facilitated the secure evacuation of civilians, patients and medical personnel" from the hospital before beginning the operation. The Israeli military, however, did not mention where the patients would be taken. However, earlier this week, an Israeli official said that they intend to relocate the people at the Kamal Adwan Hospital to the nearby Indonesian hospital. Also read: West Asia crisis: Israel launches multiple strikes in Yemen, three killed "It's dangerous because there are patients in the ICU department in a coma and in need of ventilation machines and moving them will put them in danger," Dr Sabbah said, adding, "If the army intends to continue removing these patients, they will need specialised vehicles." This comes a day after an Israeli air strike on the hospital killed approximately 50 people, including five Palestinians staff members of the hospital. A building opposite the hospital was targeted by Israeli warplanes, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya said, adding that the attack led to the death of a paediatrician and a lab technician, as well as their families. Also read: Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam Hamas remains the obstacle As the ceasefire talks continue between Israel and Hamas, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby on Friday said that Hamas remains the main obstacle to a deal. He stressed that the US efforts to secure a deal continue and that it will not give up. Also read: US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv “It is because of Hamas throwing up obstacles or refusing to move on any of these details that we are still not at a conclusion,” Kirby says during a press briefing. “We’re very, very close,” he added. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli forces evacuate Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza

The Georgian ruling party's threats against pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili are "unacceptable and incompatible" with European values, France said on Friday (Dec 27).
Georgia is gearing up for Sunday's inauguration of ruling party loyalist Mikheil Kavelashvili as president after his election was declared "illegitimate" by the outgoing leader and the pro-Western opposition.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-world-leaders-who-died-in-2024-including-alexei-navalny-ebrahim-raisi-john-prescott-sebasti%C3%A1n-pinera-alberto-fujimori-sartaj-aziz-8571615" aria-label="Prominent World Leaders Who Died in 2024">Prominent World Leaders Who Died in 2024</a>
"The Georgian Dream's threats of imprisoning President Zurabishvili are unacceptable and incompatible with any European perspective," French European Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad said on X.
"The violence and intimidation against demonstrators must stop. France supports European and democratic aspirations of the Georgian people," Haddad added.
Zurabishvili, a former French diplomat, has refused to step down until the government announces fresh parliamentary elections.&nbsp;
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said 72-year-old Zurabishvili's failure to leave the presidential palace "would constitute a criminal offence punishable by many years of imprisonment".
Zurabishvili is popular among protesters who see her as a beacon of Georgia's European aspirations and many have vowed to defend her against any attempted eviction from the presidential palace.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-world-leaders-who-died-in-2024-including-alexei-navalny-ebrahim-raisi-john-prescott-sebasti%C3%A1n-pinera-alberto-fujimori-sartaj-aziz-8571615" aria-label="Prominent World Leaders Who Died in 2024">Prominent World Leaders Who Died in 2024</a>
Kavelashvili's inauguration is expected to further escalate the political crisis which has seen mass pro-EU demonstrations.
<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>

Zurabishvili, a former French diplomat, has refused to step down until the government announces fresh parliamentary elections. 

The Georgian ruling party's threats against pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili are "unacceptable and incompatible" with European values, France said on Friday (Dec 27). Georgia is gearing up for Sunday's inauguration of ruling party loyalist Mikheil Kavelashvili as president after his election was declared "illegitimate" by the outgoing leader and the pro-Western opposition. Also read | Prominent World Leaders Who Died in 2024 "The Georgian Dream's threats of imprisoning President Zurabishvili are unacceptable and incompatible with any European perspective," French European Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad said on X. "The violence and intimidation against demonstrators must stop. France supports European and democratic aspirations of the Georgian people," Haddad added. Zurabishvili, a former French diplomat, has refused to step down until the government announces fresh parliamentary elections. Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said 72-year-old Zurabishvili's failure to leave the presidential palace "would constitute a criminal offence punishable by many years of imprisonment". Zurabishvili is popular among protesters who see her as a beacon of Georgia's European aspirations and many have vowed to defend her against any attempted eviction from the presidential palace. Also read | Prominent World Leaders Who Died in 2024 Kavelashvili's inauguration is expected to further escalate the political crisis which has seen mass pro-EU demonstrations. 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.

'Unacceptable and incompatible': France warns over threats against Georgia's pro-EU president

The cause of the crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 has been revealed. On Friday (Dec 27), the airline said that the flight crashed due to "physical and technical external interference."
In South Korea, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok was appointed as the new acting president of the country on Friday&nbsp; (Dec 27) amid political turmoil.&nbsp;
In other news from around the world, Blurry images of two seemingly new Chinese military aircraft with an unusual design appeared online on Friday, sparking concerns.
Click on the headlines to read more:
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/azerbaijan-airlines-crash-airline-says-plane-crashed-due-to-external-interference-8571192" rel="dofollow">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/27/bna8IJIFNdiNdow2Ruzp.png" alt=" A total of 38 people died in the Azerbaijan Airlines crash. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Azerbaijan Airlines said on Friday (Dec 27) that its Embraer E190 aircraft bearing flight number J2-8243 crashed in Kazakhstan on Wednesday due to "physical and technical external interference." 
<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">Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vows to overcome political turmoil</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/27/jCJIjHQNIdbn4RelCx3Z.jpg" alt=" South Korean's new acting president Choi Sang-mok Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
South Korea's Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok was appointed as the new acting president of the country on Friday (Dec 27) amid political turmoil.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-tailless-fighter-jet-blurry-images-show-new-chinese-military-aircraft-with-unusual-design-8571510" rel="dofollow">A tailless fighter jet?: Blurry images show new Chinese military aircraft with unusual design</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/27/5C9Rj0CyJEf59Y4rUgpe.png" alt=" The photos of the unusual Chinese military aircraft that have sparked concerns Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Blurry images of two seemingly new Chinese military aircraft with an unusual design appeared online on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;Reacting to&nbsp;the&nbsp;images, defence experts said that these aircraft were advanced designs, but there was not enough information to come to definitive conclusions.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-spacecraft-makes-history-by-getting-closest-ever-to-sun-8571631" rel="dofollow">NASA spacecraft makes history by getting closest-ever to Sun</a> 
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A NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) spacecraft made history on Thursday (Dec 16) by surviving the closest-ever approach to the sun.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-offered-scholarship-to-my-children-malaysian-pm-anwar-ibrahim-pays-tribute-to-late-dr-manmohan-singh-8571333" rel="dofollow">'He offered scholarships to my children': Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim pays tribute to late Dr Manmohan Singh</a>
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Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid emotional tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-spy-chiefs-silenced-fbi-from-briefing-joe-biden-about-covid-lab-leak-evidence-report-8571170" rel="dofollow">US spy chiefs 'silenced' FBI from briefing Joe Biden about COVID lab leak evidence: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/27/Kbjn3F4ltK0dWW4qIzp5.jpg" alt=" US President Joe Biden Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who found evidence that a Chinese lab leak caused COVID-19, was "silenced" and was not allowed to present the findings from the August 2021 report to US President Joe Biden, The New York Post reported.&nbsp;
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Zomato is here with its year-end report for 2024 and apart from Biryani being the most-ordered dish in India from the online food platform this year, the company also found a food lover, who spent more than $6,000 on a single bill. Yes, you read it right.&nbsp;
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Deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev on Friday (Dec 27) accused a Norwegian shipping company Oslo Carrier 3 of refusing to rescue sailors from a sinking Russian cargo ship.&nbsp; 
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Dua Lipa, on December 25, dropped a series of pictures and videos on Instagram. The singer, in the caption, said, &ldquo;Home for the holidays. Sending you all so much love&rdquo;. From relishing a bowl of ice cream to soaking in the Christmas spirit, the album was all about enjoying the holiday season.&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-pak-debutant-corbin-bosch-continues-impressive-run-breaks-this-122-year-old-record-8571445" rel="dofollow">SA vs PAK: Debutant Corbin Bosch continues impressive run, breaks THIS 122-year-old record</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/27/SUyXsEQ1o0s98xhCV2lv.png" alt=" SA vs PAK: Debutant Corbin Bosch continues impressive run, breaks THIS 122-year-old record Photograph: (SA vs PAK: Debutant Corbin Bosch continues impressive run, breaks THIS 122-year-old record) ">
South Africa are in pole position to win the Boxing Day Test match against Pakistan after a stellar show with both bat and ball at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. With a World Test Championship (WTC) final spot up for grabs, the Proteas have a new hero in their ranks after Corbin Bosch wrote his name in the history books on Friday (Dec 27), breaking a 122-year record in the process.

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

The cause of the crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 has been revealed. On Friday (Dec 27), the airline said that the flight crashed due to "physical and technical external interference." In South Korea, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok was appointed as the new acting president of the country on Friday (Dec 27) amid political turmoil. In other news from around the world, Blurry images of two seemingly new Chinese military aircraft with an unusual design appeared online on Friday, sparking concerns. Click on the headlines to read more: Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference' Azerbaijan Airlines said on Friday (Dec 27) that its Embraer E190 aircraft bearing flight number J2-8243 crashed in Kazakhstan on Wednesday due to "physical and technical external interference." Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vows to overcome political turmoil South Korea's Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok was appointed as the new acting president of the country on Friday (Dec 27) amid political turmoil. A tailless fighter jet?: Blurry images show new Chinese military aircraft with unusual design Blurry images of two seemingly new Chinese military aircraft with an unusual design appeared online on Friday (Dec 27). Reacting to the images, defence experts said that these aircraft were advanced designs, but there was not enough information to come to definitive conclusions. NASA spacecraft makes history by getting closest-ever to Sun A NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) spacecraft made history on Thursday (Dec 16) by surviving the closest-ever approach to the sun. 'He offered scholarships to my children': Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim pays tribute to late Dr Manmohan Singh Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid emotional tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Friday (Dec 27). US spy chiefs 'silenced' FBI from briefing Joe Biden about COVID lab leak evidence: Report The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who found evidence that a Chinese lab leak caused COVID-19, was "silenced" and was not allowed to present the findings from the August 2021 report to US President Joe Biden, The New York Post reported. Zomato's foodie from Bengaluru spent over $6000 on a single bill Zomato is here with its year-end report for 2024 and apart from Biryani being the most-ordered dish in India from the online food platform this year, the company also found a food lover, who spent more than $6,000 on a single bill. Yes, you read it right. Moscow accuses Norwegian shipping company of denying help to sinking Russian ship, company rejects claim Deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev on Friday (Dec 27) accused a Norwegian shipping company Oslo Carrier 3 of refusing to rescue sailors from a sinking Russian cargo ship. Is Dua Lipa engaged to boyfriend Callum Turner? Internet seems to think so Dua Lipa, on December 25, dropped a series of pictures and videos on Instagram. The singer, in the caption, said, “Home for the holidays. Sending you all so much love”. From relishing a bowl of ice cream to soaking in the Christmas spirit, the album was all about enjoying the holiday season. SA vs PAK: Debutant Corbin Bosch continues impressive run, breaks THIS 122-year-old record South Africa are in pole position to win the Boxing Day Test match against Pakistan after a stellar show with both bat and ball at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. With a World Test Championship (WTC) final spot up for grabs, the Proteas have a new hero in their ranks after Corbin Bosch wrote his name in the history books on Friday (Dec 27), breaking a 122-year record in the process.

Top 10 world news: Reason behind crash of Azerbaijan Airlines flight revealed; S Korea gets new acting president, and more

Blurry images of two seemingly new Chinese military aircraft with an unusual design appeared online on Friday (Dec 27). Reacting to the images, defence experts said that these aircraft were advanced designs, but there was not enough information to come to definitive conclusions.
Both the aircraft were tailless, meaning they did not have verticle stabilisers to help maintain control. A report by the news agency Reuters said that such aircraft were typically kept stable by computers that interpreted the pilot's control inputs.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-to-acquire-40-j-35-fighter-jets-from-china-reports-786384" rel="dofollow">Pakistan to acquire 40 J-35 fighter jets from China: Reports</a>
China has not commented on the developments yet. Meanwhile, the United States (US) said it was aware of the reports of these unusual aircraft but did not comment beyond what was included in its annual report on the Chinese military which was released earlier this month.&nbsp;
<h2>What do the blurry images reveal?</h2>
The larger of the two designs is roughly diamond-shaped, with three air intakes for its engines - two alongside the fuselage and one on top - an extremely unusual configuration, Reuters reported. The smaller one has a more conventional layout, but no tail.
Both have the lack of 90-degree angles typical of stealth shaping, which is designed to reduce radar detection.
<h2>'Appears to be a highly original design'</h2>
Speaking to the news agency, Euan Graham, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, said that the designs showed the willingness of China's aviation industry to experiment and innovate.
"Whatever the merits or demerits, it appears to be a highly original design," Graham said.
"They deserve kudos for that, and should shake off any lingering complacency that the US and its allies always set the pace," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Both the jets have the lack of 90-degree angles typical of stealth shaping, which is designed to reduce radar detection, a report by the news agency Reuters said. 

Blurry images of two seemingly new Chinese military aircraft with an unusual design appeared online on Friday (Dec 27). Reacting to the images, defence experts said that these aircraft were advanced designs, but there was not enough information to come to definitive conclusions. Both the aircraft were tailless, meaning they did not have verticle stabilisers to help maintain control. A report by the news agency Reuters said that such aircraft were typically kept stable by computers that interpreted the pilot's control inputs. Also read | Pakistan to acquire 40 J-35 fighter jets from China: Reports China has not commented on the developments yet. Meanwhile, the United States (US) said it was aware of the reports of these unusual aircraft but did not comment beyond what was included in its annual report on the Chinese military which was released earlier this month. What do the blurry images reveal? The larger of the two designs is roughly diamond-shaped, with three air intakes for its engines - two alongside the fuselage and one on top - an extremely unusual configuration, Reuters reported. The smaller one has a more conventional layout, but no tail. Both have the lack of 90-degree angles typical of stealth shaping, which is designed to reduce radar detection. 'Appears to be a highly original design' Speaking to the news agency, Euan Graham, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, said that the designs showed the willingness of China's aviation industry to experiment and innovate. "Whatever the merits or demerits, it appears to be a highly original design," Graham said. "They deserve kudos for that, and should shake off any lingering complacency that the US and its allies always set the pace," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

A tailless fighter jet?: Blurry images show new Chinese military aircraft with unusual design

Jan. 1 marks the dawn of a new era for Popeye and Tintin. It's the day the nonagenarian cartoon characters officially enter the U.S. public domain along with a treasure trove of other iconic works.

Popeye, Tintin Enter The Public Domain In 2025

The Christmas Day crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet near Kazakhstan has sparked an international debate over air safety in conflict zones. 38 of the 67 people on board died as investigators race against time, with competing narratives emerging about what brought down the aircraft. Watch in for more details!

Azerbaijan plane crash: Bird strike or missile strike? NATO seeks probe into Azerbaijani plane crash

The Christmas Day crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet near Kazakhstan has sparked an international debate over air safety in conflict zones. 38 of the 67 people on board died as investigators race against time, with competing narratives emerging about what brought down the aircraft.

Ukraine: Russia must be held responsible for Azerbaijan crash

The Mega Millions jackpot has surpassed $1 billion after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn on Christmas Eve. That means the estimated jackpot for Friday’s drawing is $1.15 billion, potentially the fifth-largest jackpot in the game’s history. Watch in for more details!

USA News: Mega Millions Jackpot Hits $1.15 Billion | WION

Canadian businessman and investor Kevin O&rsquo;Leary expressed interest in breaking a deal with US President-elect Donald Trump to create some sort of "economic reunion" between the US and Canada, stressing that at least half of Canada's population would support such deal.&nbsp;
O&rsquo;Leary, who is also a "Shark Tank" star, said that over the last two days, Canadians have been talking about this.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Canadians over the holidays, the last two days, have been talking about this,&rdquo; O&rsquo;Leary said of Trump&rsquo;s proposal during an interview with Fox Business.&nbsp;
&ldquo;They want to hear more," he added.&nbsp;
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This comes after Trump has repeatedly suggested that Canada should become "our 51st State".&nbsp;
O&rsquo;Leary further highlighted that he will visit Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate to discuss his proposal to merge Canada with the US.&nbsp;
However, he also noted that "there&rsquo;s obviously a lot of issues&rdquo; that would arise if Canada attempted to join the US, adding that Trump's interest in the matter "could be the beginning of an economic reunion".&nbsp;
"Think about the power of combining the two economies, erasing the border between Canada and the United States and putting all that resource up to the northern borders where China and Russia are knocking on the door,&rdquo; he stressed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eric-trump-posts-image-of-donald-trump-buying-canada-greenland-and-panama-canal-in-a-new-social-media-post-786466">Eric Trump posts image of Donald Trump &lsquo;Buying&rsquo; Canada, Greenland and Panama Canal in new social media post</a>
He added that the northern territories would be secured, adding that it would give a common currency, figure out taxes across the board, and create a new, almost EU-like passport. "I like this idea and at least half of Canadians are interested," sa
He further acknowledged that currently, a major obstacle is the "collapsing" Canadian government under Liberal Party Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is very likely to resign or be voted out of office by October 2025.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump calls Canada a 'US state'</h2>
For weeks now, the US president-elect has been taunting Trudeau by referring to Canada as a prospective US "state" and the prime minister as its "governor".&nbsp;
&ldquo;Nobody wants Trudeau to negotiate this deal,&rdquo; O&rsquo;Leary argued. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want him doing it for me. So I&rsquo;m going to go to Mar-A-Lago. I&rsquo;ll start the narrative.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-subsidies-to-canada-make-no-sense-suggests-canada-become-51st-us-state-785043" rel="dofollow">Trump says US subsidies to Canada make no sense, suggests it become 51st US state</a>
&ldquo;The 41 million Canadians, I think most of them would trust me on this deal," he said.&nbsp;
<h2>'Tariff row'</h2>
Trump has also threatened to impose new tariffs on Canada once he takes office in January 2025.&nbsp;
Trump, in a Christmas Day Truth Social Post, argued that Canada should become a US state because the taxes of its citizens "are far too high".&nbsp;
He further declared that "if Canada was to become our 51st State, their Taxes would be cut by more than 60 per cent.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Trump stressed that Canadian businesses also &ldquo;would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other Country anywhere in the World."
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Canadians have been actively discussing Trump's proposal over the holidays, highlighting its significant impact on international conversations and cross-border relations.

Canadian businessman and investor Kevin O’Leary expressed interest in breaking a deal with US President-elect Donald Trump to create some sort of "economic reunion" between the US and Canada, stressing that at least half of Canada's population would support such deal. O’Leary, who is also a "Shark Tank" star, said that over the last two days, Canadians have been talking about this. “Canadians over the holidays, the last two days, have been talking about this,” O’Leary said of Trump’s proposal during an interview with Fox Business. “They want to hear more," he added. Also read: ED probes Canadian colleges for trafficking Indians into US This comes after Trump has repeatedly suggested that Canada should become "our 51st State". O’Leary further highlighted that he will visit Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate to discuss his proposal to merge Canada with the US. However, he also noted that "there’s obviously a lot of issues” that would arise if Canada attempted to join the US, adding that Trump's interest in the matter "could be the beginning of an economic reunion". "Think about the power of combining the two economies, erasing the border between Canada and the United States and putting all that resource up to the northern borders where China and Russia are knocking on the door,” he stressed. Also read: Eric Trump posts image of Donald Trump ‘Buying’ Canada, Greenland and Panama Canal in new social media post He added that the northern territories would be secured, adding that it would give a common currency, figure out taxes across the board, and create a new, almost EU-like passport. "I like this idea and at least half of Canadians are interested," sa He further acknowledged that currently, a major obstacle is the "collapsing" Canadian government under Liberal Party Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is very likely to resign or be voted out of office by October 2025. Trump calls Canada a 'US state' For weeks now, the US president-elect has been taunting Trudeau by referring to Canada as a prospective US "state" and the prime minister as its "governor". “Nobody wants Trudeau to negotiate this deal,” O’Leary argued. “I don’t want him doing it for me. So I’m going to go to Mar-A-Lago. I’ll start the narrative.” Also read: Trump says US subsidies to Canada make no sense, suggests it become 51st US state “The 41 million Canadians, I think most of them would trust me on this deal," he said. 'Tariff row' Trump has also threatened to impose new tariffs on Canada once he takes office in January 2025. Trump, in a Christmas Day Truth Social Post, argued that Canada should become a US state because the taxes of its citizens "are far too high". He further declared that "if Canada was to become our 51st State, their Taxes would be cut by more than 60 per cent.” Trump stressed that Canadian businesses also “would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other Country anywhere in the World." (With inputs from agencies)

Half of Canadians interested in Trump's offer to merge US, Canada, says Shark Tank's Kevin O’Leary

In this WION exclusive, Ibrahim Al-Helali, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network, delves into Saudi Arabia’s investment priorities. He highlights the critical role of G20 countries in setting global standards. The discussion also touches on collaboration opportunities between Saudi Arabia and India in the energy and digital sectors. Listen in to this insightful conversation.

‘G20 Countries Have a Responsibility’: WION's exclusive with Ibrahim Al-Helali

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