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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;
Singh passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26) in India's capital Delhi while he was admitted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-be-remembered-for-his-economic-reforms-how-world-leaders-and-world-media-reacted-to-manmohan-singhs-death-8569529" aria-label="&lsquo;Will be remembered for his economic reforms&rsquo;: World leaders, global media react to Manmohan Singh's death">&lsquo;Will be remembered for his economic reforms&rsquo;: World leaders, global media react to Manmohan Singh's death</a>
Ibrahim took to X and expressed grief at the passing away of his "honoured and cherished friend." He wrote in his post, "Obituaries, essays and books a plenty there will surely be about this great man, celebrating him as the architect of India&rsquo;s economic reforms. As Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh was the midwife of India&rsquo;s emergence as one of the world&rsquo;s economic giants."
He further shared memories with Singh.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The weight of grief bears down on me at the news of the passing of my honoured and cherished friend: Dr Manmohan Singh. Obituaries, essays and books a plenty there will surely be about this great man, celebrating him as the architect of India&rsquo;s economic reforms. As Prime&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/44bA3s7vst">pic.twitter.com/44bA3s7vst</a>
&mdash; Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) <a href="https://twitter.com/anwaribrahim/status/1872490947105431845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>

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

Ibrahim said he had the privilege of witnessing the early years of Singh's policies while both were serving as finance ministers in the 1990s.&nbsp;
"We shared a fervent commitment to the war against corruption &mdash; even collaborating on unravelling a major case," Ibrahim wrote.&nbsp;
He further said that Singh was slightly "awkward" as a politician, but "undeniably upright, steadfast and resolute as a statesman, as he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come."
Ibrahim shared an interesting personal story with Singh as he revealed something that not many people were aware of. He said during his years of incarceration in 1999, Singh extended a kindness that he didn&rsquo;t have to.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/late-former-indian-pm-manmohan-singh-was-a-diligent-tenant-of-this-assam-house-8570872" aria-label="Late former Indian PM Manmohan Singh was a diligent tenant of THIS Assam house">Late former Indian PM Manmohan Singh was a diligent tenant of THIS Assam house</a>
Ibrahim said Singh offered Ibrahim&rsquo;s children scholarships, particularly to his son. Ibrahim said though he declined Singh&rsquo;s offer, &ldquo;such a gesture undoubtedly showed his (Singh's) extraordinary humanity and generosity, demonstrative, as the Bard would have it, of a man so full of &ldquo;the milk of human kindness&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Ibrahim further wrote, &ldquo;In those dark days, as I navigated the labyrinth of imprisonment, he stood by me as a true friend. Such acts of quiet magnanimity defined him, and they will remain etched in my heart forever.&rdquo;&nbsp;
He ended his tribute to Singh saying, &ldquo;Goodbye, my Mitra, my bhai, Manmohan.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Ibrahim said he had the privilege of witnessing the early years of Singh's policies while both were serving as finance ministers in the 1990s. 

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid emotional tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Friday (Dec 27). Singh passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26) in India's capital Delhi while he was admitted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Also read | ‘Will be remembered for his economic reforms’: World leaders, global media react to Manmohan Singh's death Ibrahim took to X and expressed grief at the passing away of his "honoured and cherished friend." He wrote in his post, "Obituaries, essays and books a plenty there will surely be about this great man, celebrating him as the architect of India’s economic reforms. As Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh was the midwife of India’s emergence as one of the world’s economic giants." He further shared memories with Singh. The weight of grief bears down on me at the news of the passing of my honoured and cherished friend: Dr Manmohan Singh. Obituaries, essays and books a plenty there will surely be about this great man, celebrating him as the architect of India’s economic reforms. As Prime… pic.twitter.com/44bA3s7vst — Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) December 27, 2024 Ibrahim said he had the privilege of witnessing the early years of Singh's policies while both were serving as finance ministers in the 1990s. "We shared a fervent commitment to the war against corruption — even collaborating on unravelling a major case," Ibrahim wrote. He further said that Singh was slightly "awkward" as a politician, but "undeniably upright, steadfast and resolute as a statesman, as he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come." Ibrahim shared an interesting personal story with Singh as he revealed something that not many people were aware of. He said during his years of incarceration in 1999, Singh extended a kindness that he didn’t have to.” Also read | Late former Indian PM Manmohan Singh was a diligent tenant of THIS Assam house Ibrahim said Singh offered Ibrahim’s children scholarships, particularly to his son. Ibrahim said though he declined Singh’s offer, “such a gesture undoubtedly showed his (Singh's) extraordinary humanity and generosity, demonstrative, as the Bard would have it, of a man so full of “the milk of human kindness”. Ibrahim further wrote, “In those dark days, as I navigated the labyrinth of imprisonment, he stood by me as a true friend. Such acts of quiet magnanimity defined him, and they will remain etched in my heart forever.” He ended his tribute to Singh saying, “Goodbye, my Mitra, my bhai, Manmohan.” (With inputs from agencies)

'He offered scholarships to my children': Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim pays tribute to late Dr Manmohan Singh

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&nbsp;interference"
While announcing the suspension of flights to 10 Russian airports, Azerbaijan Airlines said the decision was "based on the preliminary results of the investigation into the crash of the Embraer 190 aircraft operating the Baku-Grozny flight J2-8243 of Azerbaijan Airlines due to physical and technical external interference."
<h2>The tragic crash</h2>
The plane crashed near Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan on Wednesday, after taking off from Azerbaijan's Baku en route to Grozny. Of the 67 people on board, 38 were killed in the crash, and 29 survivors including two children were pulled from the wreckage, Kazakh authorities said on Wednesday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cautions-against-promoting-hypotheses-about-azerbaijan-plane-crash-8568101" rel="dofollow">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident</a>
Kazakh media said the passengers aboard included 37 citizens from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, six from Kazakhstan, and three from Kyrgyzstan.
<h2>Second black box found at crash site</h2>
The development of Azerbaijan Airlines announcing the cause of the crash came a day after the second black box (of the aircraft) was found at the crash site.&nbsp;
Speaking to the news agency Reuters,&nbsp;a Kazakh official from the transport department said that the black box had been handed over to the government's investigation department.&nbsp;
<h2>Conspiracies surrounding the crash</h2>
Several conspiracy theories started circulating online about how the aircraft crashed. Initially, authorities said that the crash might have been caused due to a bird strike.
However, theories on social media suggested the the aircraft was brought down by a Russian air defence system.
A former expert at France's BEA air accident investigation&nbsp;agency&nbsp;also said there appeared to be "a lot of shrapnel" damage on the wreckage.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-anti-aircraft-system-shot-down-azerbaijani-jet-over-mistaken-identity-us-claims-8569206" rel="dofollow">Russia&rsquo;s anti-aircraft system shot down Azerbaijani jet over &lsquo;mistaken identity&rsquo;, US claims</a>
Speaking on condition of anonymity, he told AFP that the damage was "reminiscent" of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which was downed with a surface-to-air missile by Russia-backed rebels over eastern Ukraine in 2014.
Meanwhile, Russia's aviation watchdog said on Friday that the plane had decided to reroute from its original destination in Chechnya amid dense fog and a local alert over Ukrainian drones.
(With inputs from agencies)

Kazakh media said the passengers aboard included 37 citizens from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, six from Kazakhstan, and three from Kyrgyzstan.

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" While announcing the suspension of flights to 10 Russian airports, Azerbaijan Airlines said the decision was "based on the preliminary results of the investigation into the crash of the Embraer 190 aircraft operating the Baku-Grozny flight J2-8243 of Azerbaijan Airlines due to physical and technical external interference." The tragic crash The plane crashed near Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan on Wednesday, after taking off from Azerbaijan's Baku en route to Grozny. Of the 67 people on board, 38 were killed in the crash, and 29 survivors including two children were pulled from the wreckage, Kazakh authorities said on Wednesday. Also read | Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident Kazakh media said the passengers aboard included 37 citizens from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, six from Kazakhstan, and three from Kyrgyzstan. Second black box found at crash site The development of Azerbaijan Airlines announcing the cause of the crash came a day after the second black box (of the aircraft) was found at the crash site. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, a Kazakh official from the transport department said that the black box had been handed over to the government's investigation department. Conspiracies surrounding the crash Several conspiracy theories started circulating online about how the aircraft crashed. Initially, authorities said that the crash might have been caused due to a bird strike. However, theories on social media suggested the the aircraft was brought down by a Russian air defence system. A former expert at France's BEA air accident investigation agency also said there appeared to be "a lot of shrapnel" damage on the wreckage. Also read | Russia’s anti-aircraft system shot down Azerbaijani jet over ‘mistaken identity’, US claims Speaking on condition of anonymity, he told AFP that the damage was "reminiscent" of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which was downed with a surface-to-air missile by Russia-backed rebels over eastern Ukraine in 2014. Meanwhile, Russia's aviation watchdog said on Friday that the plane had decided to reroute from its original destination in Chechnya amid dense fog and a local alert over Ukrainian drones. (With inputs from agencies)

Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference'

Joe Biden's Last Days In Office Fading Away With Little Attention. Watch to know more!

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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.

Kazakhstan crash: Russia warns against 'hypotheses' in Azerbaijan Airlines crash

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;
The report concluded that the virus behind COVID-19 was "probably not genetically engineered".&nbsp;
During that time, a popular theory emerged, suggesting that the virus spread from a bat at a Wuhan wet market, the place where the virus was first reported in 2019.&nbsp;
President Biden ordered an inquiry in May 2021 by US intelligence agencies and national laboratories. The National Intelligence Council (NIC), a body of senior intelligence officers organised the review, in which the findings were presented by Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence (DNI), and two of her senior analysts, to President Biden and his top aides.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-lab-leak-likely-behind-covid-pandemic-finds-us-investigation-780981" rel="dofollow">Also read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation STORY HIGHLIGHTS</a>
Jason Bannan, a former senior scientist at the FBI, said that he is surprised that the findings were not presented to the president, given the agency's confidence in its assessment.&nbsp;
Bannan, a microbiologist and former senior FBI scientist, spent much of his life investigating the origins of COVID-19, along with the FBI.
He was excluded from a key National Intelligence Council (NIC) briefing with US President Biden, The New York Post reported.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-likely-to-pick-john-hopkins-surgeon-covid-mandate-martin-makary-to-lead-fda-say-sources-778076" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump likely to pick John Hopkins surgeon, COVID mandate critic Martin Makary to lead FDA, say sources</a>
&ldquo;The scientists who had the subject matter expertise were silenced,&rdquo; a source said according to the Post, adding that the US President and other officials were "completely unwitting" about the evidence.&nbsp;
Bannan also stressed that the FBI was the only agency that firmly believed the virus likely originated from a laboratory, yet it wasn&rsquo;t invited to share its findings.&nbsp;
<h2>'Surprising that White House didn't ask'</h2>
&ldquo;Being the only agency that assessed that a laboratory origin was more likely, and the agency that expressed the highest level of confidence in its analysis of the source of the pandemic, we anticipated the FBI would be asked to attend the briefing,&rdquo; Bannan said.
&nbsp;&ldquo;I find it surprising that the White House didn&rsquo;t ask," he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sent-covid-test-kits-to-putin-while-americans-died-explosive-new-book-reveals-his-shocking-betrayal-765783" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump sent COVID test kits to Putin while Americans died? Explosive new book reveals his shocking betrayal</a>
Meanwhile, whistleblower Lt. Col. Joseph Murphy said that federal grant documents outlining a "blueprint" for engineering viruses like SARS-CoV-2 were inappropriately classified.
Bannan has now emphasised the need to reexamine what was left out of the intelligence community&rsquo;s review.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What ended up on the intelligence community&rsquo;s cutting-room floor needs to be re-examined," he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Jason Bannan, a former senior scientist at the FBI, said that he is surprised that the findings were not presented to the president, given the agency's confidence in its assessment. 

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. The report concluded that the virus behind COVID-19 was "probably not genetically engineered". During that time, a popular theory emerged, suggesting that the virus spread from a bat at a Wuhan wet market, the place where the virus was first reported in 2019. President Biden ordered an inquiry in May 2021 by US intelligence agencies and national laboratories. The National Intelligence Council (NIC), a body of senior intelligence officers organised the review, in which the findings were presented by Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence (DNI), and two of her senior analysts, to President Biden and his top aides. Also read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation STORY HIGHLIGHTS Jason Bannan, a former senior scientist at the FBI, said that he is surprised that the findings were not presented to the president, given the agency's confidence in its assessment. Bannan, a microbiologist and former senior FBI scientist, spent much of his life investigating the origins of COVID-19, along with the FBI. He was excluded from a key National Intelligence Council (NIC) briefing with US President Biden, The New York Post reported. Also read: Trump likely to pick John Hopkins surgeon, COVID mandate critic Martin Makary to lead FDA, say sources “The scientists who had the subject matter expertise were silenced,” a source said according to the Post, adding that the US President and other officials were "completely unwitting" about the evidence. Bannan also stressed that the FBI was the only agency that firmly believed the virus likely originated from a laboratory, yet it wasn’t invited to share its findings. 'Surprising that White House didn't ask' “Being the only agency that assessed that a laboratory origin was more likely, and the agency that expressed the highest level of confidence in its analysis of the source of the pandemic, we anticipated the FBI would be asked to attend the briefing,” Bannan said. “I find it surprising that the White House didn’t ask," he added. Also read: Trump sent COVID test kits to Putin while Americans died? Explosive new book reveals his shocking betrayal Meanwhile, whistleblower Lt. Col. Joseph Murphy said that federal grant documents outlining a "blueprint" for engineering viruses like SARS-CoV-2 were inappropriately classified. Bannan has now emphasised the need to reexamine what was left out of the intelligence community’s review. “What ended up on the intelligence community’s cutting-room floor needs to be re-examined," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US spy chiefs 'silenced' FBI from briefing Joe Biden about COVID lab leak evidence: Report

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;
Medvedev called the company's action &lsquo;outrageous&rsquo; and claimed it denied rescuing people onboard Ursa Major cargo ship.&nbsp;
However, the Norwegian shipping company rejected the claims on the same day.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-choi-sang-mok-south-koreas-new-acting-president-who-vowed-to-overcome-political-turmoil-8570988" aria-label="Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vowed to overcome political&nbsp;turmoil">Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vowed to overcome political&nbsp;turmoil</a>
Ursa Major carries out missions for the Russian Defence Ministry's military construction arm.&nbsp;
The ship ran into trouble on Monday (Dec 23) and sank between Spain and Algeria. It was carrying 16 crew members and only 14 of them were found.&nbsp;
The ship left port in St. Petersburg 12 days back, and the ship's owner said it was en route to Vladivostok in Russia's Far East. It was carrying two cranes for the port, with each weighing 380 tonnes.&nbsp;
Ursa Major was reportedly in the same area where another Russian ship named Sparta was last week and ran into trouble. At the beginning of December, Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported that Sparta was seen heading to Russia's naval base on the Syrian coast at Tartous. The report said the ship was there to move military equipment out of Syria after the downfall of Bashar al-Assad.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-may-consider-own-options-if-us-resumes-nuclear-testing-under-trumps-watch-8570852" aria-label="Russia says it may consider 'own options' if US resumes nuclear testing under Trump&rsquo;s watch">Russia says it may consider 'own options' if US resumes nuclear testing under Trump&rsquo;s watch</a>
Further on Monday (Dec 23), the HUR said that Sparta had broken down off Portugal, but the problem had been fixed. But since Ursa Major is also known as Sparta III, it was not clear which ship the agency was referring to.&nbsp;
It is still unknown what caused the explosion in the Ursa Major while it was between Oran in Algeria and the Spanish town of Aguilas.
Ursa Major was built in 2009 and was placed under sanction after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Ursa Major carries out missions for the Russian Defence Ministry's military construction arm. 

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. Medvedev called the company's action ‘outrageous’ and claimed it denied rescuing people onboard Ursa Major cargo ship. However, the Norwegian shipping company rejected the claims on the same day. Also read | Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vowed to overcome political turmoil Ursa Major carries out missions for the Russian Defence Ministry's military construction arm. The ship ran into trouble on Monday (Dec 23) and sank between Spain and Algeria. It was carrying 16 crew members and only 14 of them were found. The ship left port in St. Petersburg 12 days back, and the ship's owner said it was en route to Vladivostok in Russia's Far East. It was carrying two cranes for the port, with each weighing 380 tonnes. Ursa Major was reportedly in the same area where another Russian ship named Sparta was last week and ran into trouble. At the beginning of December, Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported that Sparta was seen heading to Russia's naval base on the Syrian coast at Tartous. The report said the ship was there to move military equipment out of Syria after the downfall of Bashar al-Assad. Also read | Russia says it may consider 'own options' if US resumes nuclear testing under Trump’s watch Further on Monday (Dec 23), the HUR said that Sparta had broken down off Portugal, but the problem had been fixed. But since Ursa Major is also known as Sparta III, it was not clear which ship the agency was referring to. It is still unknown what caused the explosion in the Ursa Major while it was between Oran in Algeria and the Spanish town of Aguilas. Ursa Major was built in 2009 and was placed under sanction after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow accuses Norwegian shipping company of denying help to sinking Russian ship, company rejects claim

Manmohan Singh, former prime minister of India passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26). Singh, who served as India’s prime minister from 2004 to 2014, is remembered for his role in shaping the country’s modern economic policies. Before becoming PM, he played an important role as finance minister, driving economic reforms that opened up India’s economy. Watch in for more details!

Manmohan Singh: The man who liberalised India's economy

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The FBI allegedly suppressed evidence from the U.S. Defense Department and researchers supporting the theory that COVID-19 originated from a Chinese lab. According to The Post, this evidence was omitted from an August 2021 report presented to President Joe Biden, which concluded that the virus was "probably not genetically engineered."

Report: FBI Evidence Of Lab Leak Causing Covid-19 Withheld From Biden | WION | World News

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan turned 59 on December 27. The actor arrived at his sister Arpita Khan Sharma's residence to ring in his birthday with his family members and close friends.

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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;
This comes after lawmakers voted to impeach the current acting leader, Han Duck-soo on Friday after he declined to appoint replacements for three vacant positions in the Constitutional Court, which is responsible for presiding over President Yoon&rsquo;s impeachment trial.
Soon after his appointment Choi Sang-mok vowed to overcome the period of turmoil in the country, stressing that minimising government turmoil is of key importance.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-lawmakers-pass-impeachment-motion-against-acting-president-han-duck-soo-8570107">South Korean lawmakers impeach acting President Han Duck-soo; finance minister to take charge</a>
"Minimising governmental turmoil is of utmost importance at this moment," Choi said in an address shortly after his appointment as acting leader. "The government will also dedicate all its efforts to overcoming this period of turmoil."
<h2>Who is Choi Sang-mok?</h2>
Choi, a 61-year-old veteran economic technocrat, has served for over 30 years in the finance ministry. He completed his bachelor's from the Seoul National University Law School, along with Yoon.&nbsp;
Now, he has been appointed for an unprecedented role as successor to an impeached acting leader Han Duck-soo.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-suspended-president-yoon-suk-yeol-faces-impeachment-hearing-over-martial-law-crisis-8569233">South Korea's suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment hearing over martial law crisis</a>
Choi was one of Yoon's conservative loyalists in the cabinet until recently. He had multiple roles in the cabinet since the president was elected in 2022, initially being appointed as a secretary of the economy division.&nbsp;
Later, he was appointed as chief economic secretary, and then finance minister in December 2023.&nbsp;
Choi has been leading an unofficial gathering of finance authorities, also known as F4, and has been seeking to placate fears among foreign investors and allies over the political turmoil.
Moreover, he pledged "unlimited liquidity" to soothe financial markets and also spoke with US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to reaffirm strong ties with America, South Korea's biggest ally.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Choi, a 61-year-old veteran economic technocrat, has served for over 30 years in the finance ministry. He completed his bachelor's from the Seoul National University Law School.

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. This comes after lawmakers voted to impeach the current acting leader, Han Duck-soo on Friday after he declined to appoint replacements for three vacant positions in the Constitutional Court, which is responsible for presiding over President Yoon’s impeachment trial. Soon after his appointment Choi Sang-mok vowed to overcome the period of turmoil in the country, stressing that minimising government turmoil is of key importance. Also read: South Korean lawmakers impeach acting President Han Duck-soo; finance minister to take charge "Minimising governmental turmoil is of utmost importance at this moment," Choi said in an address shortly after his appointment as acting leader. "The government will also dedicate all its efforts to overcoming this period of turmoil." Who is Choi Sang-mok? Choi, a 61-year-old veteran economic technocrat, has served for over 30 years in the finance ministry. He completed his bachelor's from the Seoul National University Law School, along with Yoon. Now, he has been appointed for an unprecedented role as successor to an impeached acting leader Han Duck-soo. Also read: South Korea's suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment hearing over martial law crisis Choi was one of Yoon's conservative loyalists in the cabinet until recently. He had multiple roles in the cabinet since the president was elected in 2022, initially being appointed as a secretary of the economy division. Later, he was appointed as chief economic secretary, and then finance minister in December 2023. Choi has been leading an unofficial gathering of finance authorities, also known as F4, and has been seeking to placate fears among foreign investors and allies over the political turmoil. Moreover, he pledged "unlimited liquidity" to soothe financial markets and also spoke with US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to reaffirm strong ties with America, South Korea's biggest ally. (With inputs from agencies)

Meet Choi Sang-mok, S Korea's new acting president who vows to overcome political turmoil

Syria’s new authorities have arrested a military justice official who under ousted president Bashar Assad issued death sentences for detainees in the notorious Saydnaya prison, a war monitor said Thursday. Watch in for more details!

Syria: Protests Erupt Over Shrine Desecration Amid HTS Violence | World News | WION

OpenAI's popular AI tool, ChatGPT, faced a major outage that disrupted its services. The disruption affected ChatGPT, its Application Programming Interface (API), and the text-to-video generator, Sora. The AI research and deployment company confirmed the issue on its status page, stating that high error rates were being experienced across all platforms. Watch in for more details!

ChatGPT down again: OpenAI tools hit by Microsoft data issue

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Ryabkov, has warned the incoming administration of Donald Trump against resuming nuclear weapons testing. He said that Moscow would consider its options in response to what he described as an "extremely hostile" approach from Washington.
Speaking to Russia's Kommersant newspaper, Ryabkov pointed towards the challenges of the current international climate, saying, "The international situation is extremely difficult at the moment, the American policy in its various aspects is extremely hostile to us today." 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/trumps-tough-talk-on-tariffs-needs-a-reality-check-but-its-going-to-be-a-year-of-living-dangerously-785093">Trump's tough talk on tariffs needs a reality check but it's going to be a year of living dangerously</a>
He added, "So the options for us to act in the interests of ensuring security and the potential measures and actions we have to do this - and to send politically appropriate signals... does not rule anything out."
During Trump&rsquo;s first term as president from 2017 to 2021, there were discussions within his administration about conducting the first US nuclear test since 1992, according to a 2020 Washington Post report. 
This stance was seen as a radical shift from the norms established by the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), which aims to prohibit all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-targets-pakistans-ballistic-missile-programme-slaps-sanctions-on-four-entities-785188">US targets Pakistan&rsquo;s ballistic missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities</a>
In 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin formally withdrew Russia&rsquo;s ratification of the CTBT, aligning with the United States, which signed the treaty in 1996 but has never ratified it. 
While post-Soviet Russia has not conducted any nuclear tests, the Soviet Union last tested in 1990. Putin has said that Russia would only consider conducting a nuclear test if the United States did so first.
Since the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991, nuclear testing has been limited, with the United States last testing in 1992, China and France in 1996, India and Pakistan in 1998, and North Korea most recently in 2017, according to the Arms Control Association.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | e Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister that Moscow would consider its options in response to what he described as an "extremely hostile" approach from Washington.

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Ryabkov, has warned the incoming administration of Donald Trump against resuming nuclear weapons testing. He said that Moscow would consider its options in response to what he described as an "extremely hostile" approach from Washington. Speaking to Russia's Kommersant newspaper, Ryabkov pointed towards the challenges of the current international climate, saying, "The international situation is extremely difficult at the moment, the American policy in its various aspects is extremely hostile to us today." Also read: Trump's tough talk on tariffs needs a reality check but it's going to be a year of living dangerously He added, "So the options for us to act in the interests of ensuring security and the potential measures and actions we have to do this - and to send politically appropriate signals... does not rule anything out." During Trump’s first term as president from 2017 to 2021, there were discussions within his administration about conducting the first US nuclear test since 1992, according to a 2020 Washington Post report. This stance was seen as a radical shift from the norms established by the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), which aims to prohibit all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes. Also read: US targets Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities In 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin formally withdrew Russia’s ratification of the CTBT, aligning with the United States, which signed the treaty in 1996 but has never ratified it. While post-Soviet Russia has not conducted any nuclear tests, the Soviet Union last tested in 1990. Putin has said that Russia would only consider conducting a nuclear test if the United States did so first. Since the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991, nuclear testing has been limited, with the United States last testing in 1992, China and France in 1996, India and Pakistan in 1998, and North Korea most recently in 2017, according to the Arms Control Association. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia says it may consider 'own options' if US resumes nuclear testing under Trump’s watch

Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is "striving" to end the conflict in Ukraine. The Russian President mentioned that the government is ready to deploy intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missiles or other more powerful intermediate-range weapons if necessary.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin open to peace talks with Ukraine in Slovakia

Airlines said on Friday it was suspending flights to seven Russian cities after one of its Russia-bound jets veered off course and crashed in western Kazakhstan on Wednesday.The airline said it was "taking into account the initial results of the investigation into the crash... and taking into account flight safety risks," after reports that investigators had found the plane could have been shot down by a Russian air defence missile.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-anti-aircraft-system-shot-down-azerbaijani-jet-over-mistaken-identity-us-claims-8569206" rel="dofollow"> Russia&rsquo;s anti-aircraft system shot down Azerbaijani jet over &lsquo;mistaken identity&rsquo;, US claims</a>
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.

Airlines said on Friday it was suspending flights to seven Russian cities after one of its Russia-bound jets veered off course and crashed in western Kazakhstan on Wednesday.

Airlines said on Friday it was suspending flights to seven Russian cities after one of its Russia-bound jets veered off course and crashed in western Kazakhstan on Wednesday.The airline said it was "taking into account the initial results of the investigation into the crash... and taking into account flight safety risks," after reports that investigators had found the plane could have been shot down by a Russian air defence missile. Also Read: Russia’s anti-aircraft system shot down Azerbaijani jet over ‘mistaken identity’, US claims 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.

Azerbaijan Airlines suspended flights to seven Russian cities following the crash

Israel on Thursday (Dec 26) hit multiple targets linked to Yemen-based Houthi rebels, including a major assault on the international airport in the capital, Sana&rsquo;a. The strikes left at least six people dead, as claimed by the Iran-backed militias. The UN chief condemned the &ldquo;escalation&rdquo; in the region, whereas World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus later said he was about to board a plane at the airport just before it came under Israeli fire. &ldquo;The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge &ndash; just a few meters from where we were &ndash; and the runway were damaged. We will need to wait for the damage to the airport to be repaired before we can leave,&rdquo; said the WHO chief. He added that a crew member on the plane was injured. Earlier, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday to &ldquo;cut off this terrorist arm of Iran&rsquo;s evil axis.&rdquo; &ldquo;We will persist in this until we complete the task,&rdquo; he added. Israel has hinted it is going to shift its focus to Houthis after dealing massive blows to other Iranian proxies in the region, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
<h2>Follow the latest updates here.</h2>

The live blog has ended. 

Yemen-based Houthi rebels Friday (Dec 27) said they fired a missile at Israel's Ben Gurion airport. The attack comes a day after Israel raided Sanaa's international airport and other targets in rebel areas.
A Houthi statement said they also launched drones at Tel Aviv and a ship in the Arabian Sea, stating that Israeli "aggression will only increase the determination and resolve of the great Yemeni people to continue supporting the Palestinian people".

West Asia crisis | Iran-backed Houthis say they launched attacks on Tel Aviv airport

A Palestinian television channel has reported the death of five of its journalists in an Israeli airstrike in the central Gaza Strip.
According to the channel, the journalists were inside a Quds Today van parked outside al-Awda hospital in the Nuseirat refugee camp. One of the journalists was reportedly awaiting the birth of his child at the hospital.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the strike targeted "Islamic Jihad operatives posing as journalists" and added that measures were taken to minimise harm to civilians.

West Asia crisis | IDF strike kills five journalists of Palestinian TV channel

Major Hod Shriebman was killed in combat in northern Gaza, the IDF said Thursday.
27-year-old Shriebman was serving as a company commander in the Multidimensional Unit.
His death has taken the total death toll of IDF soldiers to 823 since October 7 of last year.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m56g79bp-wdgjorwy-zzqymn5e">
Another hero fell in battle in Gaza Major Hod Shriebman🕯️ May his memory be blessed forever. <a href="https://t.co/WXXwFuRFc4">pic.twitter.com/WXXwFuRFc4</a>
&mdash; נועה מגיד | Noa magid (@NoaMagid) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoaMagid/status/1872387173758202062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

West Asia Crisis | IDF announces death of another soldier in Gaza

Damascus governor has said his nation doesn't fear Israel in a bold statement Friday during an interview with NPR. "We have no fear toward Israel&hellip; there exists a people who want coexistence," he said.
The governor of Damascus added the newly-installed government wants to have good relations with Israel. &nbsp;&nbsp; &ldquo;Israel may have felt fear,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;So it advanced a little, bombed a little, etc.&rdquo; &nbsp; &ldquo;We have no fear towards Israel, and our problem is not with Israel,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;There exists a people who want coexistence. They want peace. They don&rsquo;t want disputes.&rdquo; &nbsp; &ldquo;We want peace, and we cannot be an opponent to Israel or an opponent to anyone,&rdquo; he said..

West Asia crisis | ‘We have no fear toward Israel,' declares Syria governor

Lebanese media has reported Israeli strikes on three targets in the Bekaa Valley region, close to the border with Syria. &nbsp;

West Asia crisis | Israeli strikes near Syrian border

An apparent Houthi attack temporarily halted arrivals at israel's Ben Gurion Airport Friday, with four flights from Europe told to wait and not near the airport, according to local media reports. The airport resumed its normal activities after some 30 minutes.

West Asia crisis | Arrivals at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport halted for brief period

World News | The UN chief condemned the “escalation” in the region, whereas WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus later said he was about to board a plane at the airport.

Israel on Thursday (Dec 26) hit multiple targets linked to Yemen-based Houthi rebels, including a major assault on the international airport in the capital, Sana’a. The strikes left at least six people dead, as claimed by the Iran-backed militias. The UN chief condemned the “escalation” in the region, whereas World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus later said he was about to board a plane at the airport just before it came under Israeli fire. “The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge – just a few meters from where we were – and the runway were damaged. We will need to wait for the damage to the airport to be repaired before we can leave,” said the WHO chief. He added that a crew member on the plane was injured. Earlier, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday to “cut off this terrorist arm of Iran’s evil axis.” “We will persist in this until we complete the task,” he added. Israel has hinted it is going to shift its focus to Houthis after dealing massive blows to other Iranian proxies in the region, including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Follow the latest updates here.

West Asia crisis LIVE: Yemen-based Houthis claim drone, missile attack at Tel Aviv airport

Former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92, in the national capital on Thursday (Dec 26), Delhi's All India Medical Institute (AIIMS) confirmed in a press release. Watch in for more details!

Dr Manmohan Singh Dies At 92; Movie Stars Bid Farewell To Dr Manmohan Singh

Shaken by the events of October 7 and wary of further attacks, Israel relaxed safeguards for noncombatants, permitting strikes that could risk the lives of up to 20 people per attack. The result was one of the most devastating bombardments of the 21st century.

Report: IDF Loosened rules of engagement after Oct. 7, allowing more civilian deaths

Light rain in Delhi-NCR has brought a slight drop in temperature, but the region's air quality remains in the "severe" category, posing health risks. Authorities continue to monitor pollution levels as the weather shifts. Watch in for more details!

Delhi witnesses rain and fog; IMD predicts thunderstorms throughout the day

An injured North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces died from injuries, South Korea's spy agency said in a statement on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;
Since North Korea deployed its troops to support Russia in its war with Ukraine, the soldier is believed to be the first Pyongyang prisoner of war captured by Kyiv.&nbsp;
South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries", state media Yonhap News Agency reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldier-fighting-for-russia-captured-by-ukrainian-forces-report-8569397">Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report</a>
Earlier in the day, South Korea's spy agency confirmed Ukrainian reports that an injured North Korean soldier had been captured by Kyiv forces.&nbsp;
"Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement.
Yonhap News Agency reported that a photograph of the soldier, looking gaunt and appearing to have been injured, has been making rounds on the Telegram messaging app.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madness-must-be-stopped-zelensky-claims-russian-troops-burning-faces-of-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-war-784772" rel="dofollow">'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war</a>
North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine, including in the border regions.&nbsp;
Around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed after their leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence pact, committing each other to come to aid if attacked.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-over-3000-north-koreans-killed-or-wounded-in-kursk-region-786276">Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region</a>
Earlier on Thursday, Ukraine&rsquo;s military intelligence agency, also known as the GUR, said that the North Korean troops were suffering heavy losses in the fighting in Kursk.&nbsp;
Moreover, this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region.&nbsp;
According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence services, many of the troops deployed to Russia are some of Pyongyang's best, who are drawn from the 11th Corps.&nbsp;
This unit is specifically trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries".

An injured North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces died from injuries, South Korea's spy agency said in a statement on Friday (Dec 27). Since North Korea deployed its troops to support Russia in its war with Ukraine, the soldier is believed to be the first Pyongyang prisoner of war captured by Kyiv. South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries", state media Yonhap News Agency reported. Also read: Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report Earlier in the day, South Korea's spy agency confirmed Ukrainian reports that an injured North Korean soldier had been captured by Kyiv forces. "Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement. Yonhap News Agency reported that a photograph of the soldier, looking gaunt and appearing to have been injured, has been making rounds on the Telegram messaging app. Also read: 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine, including in the border regions. Around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed after their leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence pact, committing each other to come to aid if attacked. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region Earlier on Thursday, Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, also known as the GUR, said that the North Korean troops were suffering heavy losses in the fighting in Kursk. Moreover, this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region. According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence services, many of the troops deployed to Russia are some of Pyongyang's best, who are drawn from the 11th Corps. This unit is specifically trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency

The Japanese government has approved a record defence budget this fiscal year amid increasing security threats.
The country&rsquo;s defence ministry said Japan was facing its "most severe and complex" security environment since World War II. Of the total $730 billion budget for the year starting April 2025, over $55 billion have been earmarked for defence spending. The increased budget conforms to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba&rsquo;s assertion that more spending on defence was necessary to deal with fresh challenges in the neighbourhood.
It must be noted that Japan is bound by its pacifist post-war constitution, which severely limits its ability to undertake major defence measures. However, Tokyo had updated its defence policy in 2022, in the backdrop of rising security threats from China. In that year, Japan vowed to double its defence spending to comply with the NATO standard of two per cent of GDP by the year 2027.
The government said Japan will use the increased defence funding to boost its Self-Defense Forces (SDF) and improve ties with allies such as the US. Japan is also mulling developing a system to track satellite data to be better prepared to monitor and tackle missile threats from North Korea.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-airlines-hit-by-cyberattack-flights-may-be-affected-8566978">Japan Airlines hit by cyberattack, flights may be affected</a>
"Strengthening our defence capabilities is something we're actively working on," Ishiba said at an event organised by the Yomiuri newspaper on Thursday.
"Now matter how great our military tanks or vehicles are, it's pointless if we don't have enough people to move them," said the prime minister, who has vowed to fix a shortage of new troops.
<h2>Focus on declining birth rate</h2>
The budget has also focused on resolving the other biggest crisis facing Japan today: The falling birth rate. Japan remains one of the world&rsquo;s oldest societies, with 29.3 per cent of population aged 65 or more. The government will now spend more on social welfare spending and economic planning.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | It must be noted that Japan is bound by its pacifist post-war constitution, which severely limits its ability to undertake major defence measures. However, Tokyo had updated its defence policy in 2022

The Japanese government has approved a record defence budget this fiscal year amid increasing security threats. The country’s defence ministry said Japan was facing its "most severe and complex" security environment since World War II. Of the total $730 billion budget for the year starting April 2025, over $55 billion have been earmarked for defence spending. The increased budget conforms to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s assertion that more spending on defence was necessary to deal with fresh challenges in the neighbourhood. It must be noted that Japan is bound by its pacifist post-war constitution, which severely limits its ability to undertake major defence measures. However, Tokyo had updated its defence policy in 2022, in the backdrop of rising security threats from China. In that year, Japan vowed to double its defence spending to comply with the NATO standard of two per cent of GDP by the year 2027. The government said Japan will use the increased defence funding to boost its Self-Defense Forces (SDF) and improve ties with allies such as the US. Japan is also mulling developing a system to track satellite data to be better prepared to monitor and tackle missile threats from North Korea. Also read: Japan Airlines hit by cyberattack, flights may be affected "Strengthening our defence capabilities is something we're actively working on," Ishiba said at an event organised by the Yomiuri newspaper on Thursday. "Now matter how great our military tanks or vehicles are, it's pointless if we don't have enough people to move them," said the prime minister, who has vowed to fix a shortage of new troops. Focus on declining birth rate The budget has also focused on resolving the other biggest crisis facing Japan today: The falling birth rate. Japan remains one of the world’s oldest societies, with 29.3 per cent of population aged 65 or more. The government will now spend more on social welfare spending and economic planning. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan approves $55bn mammoth defence budget as it gears up to take on China threat

California&rsquo;s battle with bird flu has been intensified as two new confirmed cases have been found in Stanislaus and Los Angeles counties. The rate at which the flu lathers has led California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency on December 18.&nbsp;
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday (Dec 26) revealed some unusual genetic changes in the virus. These mutations were not found in samples from infected poultry on the patient&rsquo;s property. The CDC explained that the changes occurred in the hemagglutinin (HA) gene, which helps the virus attach to host cells.&nbsp;
As reported by Reuters, a change similar to this was detected in severe infection in British Columbia, Canada. No evidence of the virus spreading from the Louisiana patient to others has been identified, the CDC added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bird-flu-crisis-in-us-drives-egg-prices-to-an-all-time-high-786178" rel="dofollow">Bird flu crisis in US drives egg prices to an all-time high</a>
<h2>Cases recorded&nbsp;</h2>
Previously, the first severe case was confirmed in the US in a Louisiana resident over the age of 65 who was experiencing respiratory issues. Louisiana was infected with the D1.1 strain of the virus, which has been recently found in wild birds and poultry in the US.
This is different from the B3.13 strain seen in dairy cows, some poultry, and human cases in various states.
Avian influenza A (H5N1) cases have been on a surge and have infected 659 of California's 984 dairy operations since August. Previously, November witnessed nearly one-quarter of the total cases, according to California authorities advising to err on the side of caution for the possible impact on poultry industries, food supply chains, and public health.
<h2>'Raw cat food' linked to bird flu</h2>
The Oregon agriculture department issued a notice asking customers to throw away its Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food if the sell-by date is between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026, after a cat that died of bird flu was linked to the product. The company stated on its website that this batch of cat food, sold across the US, tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Dr Ryan Scholz, a state veterinarian with the ODA, said, &ldquo;We are sure the cat got H5N1 from eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food.&rdquo;
<h2>Symptoms of bird flu&nbsp;</h2>
Some of the main symptoms reported among humans include red, sore eyes (conjunctivitis) or mild respiratory symptoms. Some symptoms cause human flu symptoms like fever, cough, muscle ache, or tiredness. Life-threatening symptoms include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and diarrhea. Symptoms may appear between 1 and 10 days following exposure.
(With inputs from agencies)

California’s battle with bird flu has been intensified as two new confirmed cases have been found in Stanislaus and Los Angeles counties. The rate at which the flu lathers has led California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency on December 18.

California’s battle with bird flu has been intensified as two new confirmed cases have been found in Stanislaus and Los Angeles counties. The rate at which the flu lathers has led California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency on December 18. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday (Dec 26) revealed some unusual genetic changes in the virus. These mutations were not found in samples from infected poultry on the patient’s property. The CDC explained that the changes occurred in the hemagglutinin (HA) gene, which helps the virus attach to host cells. As reported by Reuters, a change similar to this was detected in severe infection in British Columbia, Canada. No evidence of the virus spreading from the Louisiana patient to others has been identified, the CDC added. Also Read: Bird flu crisis in US drives egg prices to an all-time high Cases recorded Previously, the first severe case was confirmed in the US in a Louisiana resident over the age of 65 who was experiencing respiratory issues. Louisiana was infected with the D1.1 strain of the virus, which has been recently found in wild birds and poultry in the US. This is different from the B3.13 strain seen in dairy cows, some poultry, and human cases in various states. Avian influenza A (H5N1) cases have been on a surge and have infected 659 of California's 984 dairy operations since August. Previously, November witnessed nearly one-quarter of the total cases, according to California authorities advising to err on the side of caution for the possible impact on poultry industries, food supply chains, and public health. 'Raw cat food' linked to bird flu The Oregon agriculture department issued a notice asking customers to throw away its Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food if the sell-by date is between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026, after a cat that died of bird flu was linked to the product. The company stated on its website that this batch of cat food, sold across the US, tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Dr Ryan Scholz, a state veterinarian with the ODA, said, “We are sure the cat got H5N1 from eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food.” Symptoms of bird flu Some of the main symptoms reported among humans include red, sore eyes (conjunctivitis) or mild respiratory symptoms. Some symptoms cause human flu symptoms like fever, cough, muscle ache, or tiredness. Life-threatening symptoms include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and diarrhea. Symptoms may appear between 1 and 10 days following exposure. (With inputs from agencies)

Bird flu outbreak in California: CDC identifies mutations in first severe human infection in US

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