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<p>A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia.’</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">"I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don't have those nice memories," Grayson said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to everyday sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing. These noises irk Grayson and make him angry, which makes it feel like swallowing a hard pill for him to enjoy Christmas dinner with his family.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-rare-disease-day-challenges-in-protect-newborns-from-rare-growth-affecting-conditions-695195">Rare Disease Day: Challenges in protecting newborns from rare growth-affecting conditions</a></strong></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>A life with struggle&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don’t have those nice memories," he told a British tabloid, The Sun. "I’d love to be downstairs with them, but the overwhelming rage keeps me away. I don’t want to take it out on them," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Although he has tried many treatments, including private therapy and hypnotherapy, seeking a cure remains uncertain.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">His parents, Alex, 51, and Dawn, 54, had let go of his reactions at times, considering it childhood frenzy.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">"I didn’t know how to explain my emotions back then, so they thought I was being a brat," he said. "It wasn’t until I started scratching my legs that they realised something was wrong."<br />
<br />
"My dad once tried to explain my condition to someone, and they accused me of making it up to get benefits," he said. "That’s been one of the hardest things—people just don’t understand."</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases &amp; more</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/celebrities-whove-been-diagnosed-with-rare-diseases-more-695859/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>'Misophonia' effects&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">&gt; Sounds such as chewing, breathing, sniffing, yawning, and even repetitive noises like pen clicking or keyboard tapping are some of the triggering sounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&gt; A soft or low-volume trigger can cause emotional and physical symptoms in an individual who is affected by this.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&gt; The ones who are affected often have difficulty breathing, palpitations, muscle pain, or losing control. It hits in childhood or even adolescence but the extremity varies from one person to another person.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The main cause of this condition is unclear presently, but the researchers feel it involves the abnormal connection between the emotional and auditory processing centers of the brain.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Efforts for awareness&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Respective to the fact that the condition is getting recognised, it is clearly not understood well, and there is no standardised treatment for it. However, the management aid is there to control it, like sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the use of noise-canceling devices used to reduce the triggers.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Grayson comes with a hope that sharing his story will bring great impact to awareness of misophonia, a condition that remains misunderstood.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"I’d love to be able to suck it up one day and have Christmas dinner with my family and partner. That would mean everything to me," he said.<br />
(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)&nbsp;</p>


A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia.

A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia.’ "I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don't have those nice memories," Grayson said. This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to everyday sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing. These noises irk Grayson and make him angry, which makes it feel like swallowing a hard pill for him to enjoy Christmas dinner with his family. Also Read: Rare Disease Day: Challenges in protecting newborns from rare growth-affecting conditions A life with struggle I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don’t have those nice memories," he told a British tabloid, The Sun. "I’d love to be downstairs with them, but the overwhelming rage keeps me away. I don’t want to take it out on them," he said. Although he has tried many treatments, including private therapy and hypnotherapy, seeking a cure remains uncertain. His parents, Alex, 51, and Dawn, 54, had let go of his reactions at times, considering it childhood frenzy. "I didn’t know how to explain my emotions back then, so they thought I was being a brat," he said. "It wasn’t until I started scratching my legs that they realised something was wrong." "My dad once tried to explain my condition to someone, and they accused me of making it up to get benefits," he said. "That’s been one of the hardest things—people just don’t understand." Watch | Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases & more 'Misophonia' effects > Sounds such as chewing, breathing, sniffing, yawning, and even repetitive noises like pen clicking or keyboard tapping are some of the triggering sounds. > A soft or low-volume trigger can cause emotional and physical symptoms in an individual who is affected by this. > The ones who are affected often have difficulty breathing, palpitations, muscle pain, or losing control. It hits in childhood or even adolescence but the extremity varies from one person to another person. The main cause of this condition is unclear presently, but the researchers feel it involves the abnormal connection between the emotional and auditory processing centers of the brain. Efforts for awareness Respective to the fact that the condition is getting recognised, it is clearly not understood well, and there is no standardised treatment for it. However, the management aid is there to control it, like sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the use of noise-canceling devices used to reduce the triggers. Grayson comes with a hope that sharing his story will bring great impact to awareness of misophonia, a condition that remains misunderstood. "I’d love to be able to suck it up one day and have Christmas dinner with my family and partner. That would mean everything to me," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

I never had Christmas dinner with family, says a teenager with a rare condition called 'misophonia’.

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<p>US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he takes charge.</p>

<p>Just days after President Joe Biden granted pardon to 37 death row inmates, Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said that as soon as he is inaugurated in January 2025, he will issue the order to protect Americans from the "monsters".</p>

<h2><strong>What did Trump say?</strong></h2>

<p>Trump, on his social media platform, vowed "As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-three-death-row-inmates-joe-biden-didnt-pardon-heres-all-you-need-to-know-786345">Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>"We will be a Nation of Law and Order again!," he stressed.</p>

<h2><strong>Can he reverse the pardons?</strong></h2>

<p>No, incoming president Donald Trump cannot change or reverse the clemency granted by the incumbent president.</p>

<p>According to Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution, the POTUS "shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." These pardons cannot be overturned, by a court, Congress or another President for that matter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-good-conscience-us-president-biden-commutes-37-out-of-40-federal-death-row-sentences-as-term-nears-end-786267" target="_blank">‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Biden's clemency</strong></h2>

<p>US President Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The crimes of the 37 convicts who had their death sentences "reclassified from execution to life without the possibility of parole" included murder, kidnapping and shooting, yet they received clemency.</p>

<p>In a statement, he&nbsp;said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.”</p>

<p>"But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, vice president, and now president, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted."</p>

<p>However, three convicts, Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, who was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015; Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, who along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, carried out the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013; and Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting were not part of Biden's clemency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he takes charge.

US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he takes charge. Just days after President Joe Biden granted pardon to 37 death row inmates, Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said that as soon as he is inaugurated in January 2025, he will issue the order to protect Americans from the "monsters". What did Trump say? Trump, on his social media platform, vowed "As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters." Also read | Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know "We will be a Nation of Law and Order again!," he stressed. Can he reverse the pardons? No, incoming president Donald Trump cannot change or reverse the clemency granted by the incumbent president. According to Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution, the POTUS "shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." These pardons cannot be overturned, by a court, Congress or another President for that matter. Also read | ‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end Biden's clemency US President Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. The crimes of the 37 convicts who had their death sentences "reclassified from execution to life without the possibility of parole" included murder, kidnapping and shooting, yet they received clemency. In a statement, he said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.” "But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, vice president, and now president, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted." However, three convicts, Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, who was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015; Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, who along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, carried out the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013; and Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting were not part of Biden's clemency. (With inputs from agencies)

Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously'

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Well, it's that time of the year again when Santa Claus hops on his sleigh and travels around the world, delivering gifts. Governments across borders seem to be cooperating in this important festive task. 

In an age-old tradition, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has published its annual Santa Tracker, a website that offers updates on Santa's travels. This tradition is over half a century old, dating back to 1955 when a child accidentally called the Defense Command Center, inquiring about Santa. In keeping with the Christmas spirit, an American Air Force General has reassured the public that recent sightings of mystery drones in New Jersey will not impact Santa's journey through the skies. Watch in for more details!

US General Says 'Mysterious' Drones Will Not Impact Santa's Journey

Donald Trump's first pick for heading the Justice Department has been accused by the House Ethics Committee for regularly paying women, including a 17-year-old, for sex. Matt Gaetz was Donald Trump's pick to serve as U.S. Attorney General, after withdrew his name and resigned from Congress. The 37-page report by the bipartisan panel includes explicit details of the accusations. Watch in for more details!

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US President-elect Donald Trump has reignited the death penalty debate. Set to take office in January next year, Trump has vowed to direct his Justice Department to vigorously pursue federal capital punishment. Watch in for more details!



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<p><span class="region">Washington DC, United States</span>
<p>Bill Clinton, the 78-year-old former US president, was released from Georgetown University Medical Center on Tuesday (Dec 24) after receiving treatment for flu. His deputy chief of staff, Angel Urena, confirmed that Clinton is now expected to return home before Christmas.</p></p>
<p><strong>Stable condition and recovery plans</strong></p>
<p>Clinton was admitted to the hospital after showing flu-like symptoms, but his condition remained stable during his stay. Urena reassured that Clinton is “fine” and in good spirits, looking forward to spending the holidays with his family.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-drones-wont-interfere-with-santas-work-us-tracker-786574">Mystery drones won't interfere with Santa's work: US tracker</a></p>
<p><strong>Gratitude for care and support  </strong></p>
<p>In a statement, Urena expressed Clinton and his family's gratitude for the "exceptional care" provided by MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Clinton also conveyed his thanks for the "kind messages and well wishes" he received from the public. He added, "He sends his warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season to all."</p>
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<p><strong>Flu surge across the US</strong></p>
<p>As Clinton recovers, flu cases continue to rise across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu-like illness visits have been above baseline levels since late November, with hospitalisation rates doubling in recent weeks. The CDC reports approximately 1.9 million flu cases, 23,000 hospitalisations, and 970 deaths so far this season.</p>
<p><strong>Past health challenges</strong></p>
<p>This isn't Clinton's first health scare. Over the years, the former president has dealt with various medical issues, including a quadruple bypass surgery in 2004, surgery for a collapsed lung in 2005, and coronary stents in 2010. In 2021, Clinton was hospitalised for six days due to a urological infection that spread to his bloodstream. Despite these challenges, Clinton has remained active and committed to his public life.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) </em></p>


Clinton was admitted to the hospital after showing flu-like symptoms, but his condition remained stable during his stay.



Washington DC, United States Bill Clinton, the 78-year-old former US president, was released from Georgetown University Medical Center on Tuesday (Dec 24) after receiving treatment for flu. His deputy chief of staff, Angel Urena, confirmed that Clinton is now expected to return home before Christmas. Stable condition and recovery plans Clinton was admitted to the hospital after showing flu-like symptoms, but his condition remained stable during his stay. Urena reassured that Clinton is “fine” and in good spirits, looking forward to spending the holidays with his family. Also read | Mystery drones won't interfere with Santa's work: US tracker Gratitude for care and support In a statement, Urena expressed Clinton and his family's gratitude for the "exceptional care" provided by MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Clinton also conveyed his thanks for the "kind messages and well wishes" he received from the public. He added, "He sends his warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season to all." Also read | NYC subway fire: Accused illegal Guatemalan immigrant was deported in 2018, but he snuck back Flu surge across the US As Clinton recovers, flu cases continue to rise across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu-like illness visits have been above baseline levels since late November, with hospitalisation rates doubling in recent weeks. The CDC reports approximately 1.9 million flu cases, 23,000 hospitalisations, and 970 deaths so far this season. Past health challenges This isn't Clinton's first health scare. Over the years, the former president has dealt with various medical issues, including a quadruple bypass surgery in 2004, surgery for a collapsed lung in 2005, and coronary stents in 2010. In 2021, Clinton was hospitalised for six days due to a urological infection that spread to his bloodstream. Despite these challenges, Clinton has remained active and committed to his public life. (With inputs from agencies)

Bill Clinton discharged from hospital after flu treatment, expected to return home before Christmas

<p><span class="region">Washington, US</span>
<p>Former US national security adviser John Bolton said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that a major international crisis is "much more likely" in US President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming term given his "inability to focus" on foreign policy. </p></p>
<p>Bolton, who was also a US ambassador to the United Nations, slammed Trump for his lack of knowledge, interest in facts, or coherent strategy. </p>
<p>John Bolton was also Trump's longest-serving national security adviser and served from April 2018 to September 2019.</p>
<p>He further described the president-elect's decision-making as driven by personal relationships and "neuron flashes" rather than a deep understanding of national interests. </p>
<p>He also dismissed Trump's claims he made during this year's presidential campaign, in which he said that only he could prevent a third world war while bringing a swift end to the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/makes-no-sense-trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-death-sentence-commutations-786553"><strong>Also read: 'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations</strong></a></p>
<p>“It’s typical Trump: it’s all braggadocio,” Bolton told the Guardian. “The world is more dangerous than when he was president before. The only real crisis we had was Covid, which is a long-term crisis and not against a particular foreign power but against a pandemic."</p>
<p>“But the risk of an international crisis of the 19th-century variety is much more likely in a second Trump term. Given Trump’s inability to focus on coherent decision-making, I’m very worried about how that might look," he added. </p>
<p>He further recalled that earlier he believed that like other US presidents, the weight of the responsibilities, certainly in national security, the gravity of the issues that he was confronting, the consequences of his decisions, would discipline his thinking in a way that would produce serious outcomes.</p>
<p>“It turned out I was wrong. By the time I got there, a lot of patterns of behaviour had already been set that were never changed, and it could well be, even if I had been there earlier, I couldn’t have affected it. But it was clear pretty soon after I got there that intellectual discipline wasn’t in the Trump vocabulary," he continued.</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Trump Is Teasing US Expansion Into Panama, Greenland &amp; Canada</strong></p>
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<p>On Trump's relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Bolton said that he believed that he had a friendship with Putin. </p>
<p>“I don’t know what Putin thinks his relationship is with Trump but he believes he knows how to play Trump, that Trump’s an easy mark. Trump doesn’t see that at all," he said. </p>
<p>“If you put everything on the basis of personal relations and you don’t understand how the person you’re talking about on the other side views you, that’s a real lack of situational awareness that can only cause trouble," Bolton added. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bolton, who was also a US ambassador to the United Nations, slammed Trump for his lack of knowledge, interest in facts or coherent strategy. 



Washington, US Former US national security adviser John Bolton said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that a major international crisis is "much more likely" in US President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming term given his "inability to focus" on foreign policy. Bolton, who was also a US ambassador to the United Nations, slammed Trump for his lack of knowledge, interest in facts, or coherent strategy. John Bolton was also Trump's longest-serving national security adviser and served from April 2018 to September 2019. He further described the president-elect's decision-making as driven by personal relationships and "neuron flashes" rather than a deep understanding of national interests. He also dismissed Trump's claims he made during this year's presidential campaign, in which he said that only he could prevent a third world war while bringing a swift end to the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Also read: 'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations “It’s typical Trump: it’s all braggadocio,” Bolton told the Guardian. “The world is more dangerous than when he was president before. The only real crisis we had was Covid, which is a long-term crisis and not against a particular foreign power but against a pandemic." “But the risk of an international crisis of the 19th-century variety is much more likely in a second Trump term. Given Trump’s inability to focus on coherent decision-making, I’m very worried about how that might look," he added. He further recalled that earlier he believed that like other US presidents, the weight of the responsibilities, certainly in national security, the gravity of the issues that he was confronting, the consequences of his decisions, would discipline his thinking in a way that would produce serious outcomes. “It turned out I was wrong. By the time I got there, a lot of patterns of behaviour had already been set that were never changed, and it could well be, even if I had been there earlier, I couldn’t have affected it. But it was clear pretty soon after I got there that intellectual discipline wasn’t in the Trump vocabulary," he continued. Watch | Trump Is Teasing US Expansion Into Panama, Greenland & Canada × On Trump's relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Bolton said that he believed that he had a friendship with Putin. “I don’t know what Putin thinks his relationship is with Trump but he believes he knows how to play Trump, that Trump’s an easy mark. Trump doesn’t see that at all," he said. “If you put everything on the basis of personal relations and you don’t understand how the person you’re talking about on the other side views you, that’s a real lack of situational awareness that can only cause trouble," Bolton added. (With inputs from agencies)

Major global crisis 'much more likely' in Trump's second term due to..., says his ex-NSA

<p><span class="region">Washington, US</span>
<p>Santa Claus has no need to worry about recent mystery drone sightings over New Jersey, a US Air Force general said Tuesday, as an annual tradition of "tracking" Saint Nick swung into action.</p></p>
<p>General Gregory Guillot's reassurances came as the joint US-Canadian North American Aerospace Defense Command reported that Santa and his reindeer were making stops across Asia, including Japan and North Korea.</p>
<p>Santa's journey this year comes after weeks of mysterious sightings of alleged drones in New Jersey, sparking worldwide curiosity even as many of the reported sightings were debunked.</p>
<p>"Of course, we are concerned about drones and anything else in the air," NORAD commander Guillot told Fox News. "But I don't foresee any difficulty at all with drones for Santa this year."</p>
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<p>NORAD's Santa tracker dates back to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement printed a phone number to connect children with Santa -- but mistakenly directed them to the hotline for the joint military nerve centre.</p>
<p>To avoid disappointing the little ones, NORAD's director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, ordered his staff to "check" the radar to see where Santa might be and update the children calling in on his location.</p>
<p>When not spreading holiday cheer, NORAD conducts aerospace and maritime control and warning operations -- including monitoring for missile launches from North Korea, something perhaps on Santa's mind as he guided his reindeer-hauled sleigh over Pyongyang.</p>
<p>The tracker, which has been modernized and moved online to noradsanta.org, includes a 3D map showing Santa's movements in real-time, as well as a ticker -- constantly shooting upward -- showing approximately how many presents have been delivered.</p>
<p>"North American Aerospace Defense Command always does a fantastic job helping us keep tabs on Santa's navigational heading and bearing in the skies above," astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second person to ever walk on the Moon, said on social media.</p>
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<p>Last year, US President Joe Biden joined in the fun at NORAD's call centre, taking calls from children.</p>
<p>As of Tuesday morning, some 1.2 billion presents had been delivered, according to NORAD.</p>
<p><em>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.</em></p>


Santa's journey this year comes after weeks of mysterious sightings of alleged drones in New Jersey, sparking worldwide curiosity even as many of the reported sightings were debunked.



Washington, US Santa Claus has no need to worry about recent mystery drone sightings over New Jersey, a US Air Force general said Tuesday, as an annual tradition of "tracking" Saint Nick swung into action. General Gregory Guillot's reassurances came as the joint US-Canadian North American Aerospace Defense Command reported that Santa and his reindeer were making stops across Asia, including Japan and North Korea. Santa's journey this year comes after weeks of mysterious sightings of alleged drones in New Jersey, sparking worldwide curiosity even as many of the reported sightings were debunked. "Of course, we are concerned about drones and anything else in the air," NORAD commander Guillot told Fox News. "But I don't foresee any difficulty at all with drones for Santa this year." Also read | Biden delivers on threat to veto bill to expand US judiciary NORAD's Santa tracker dates back to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement printed a phone number to connect children with Santa -- but mistakenly directed them to the hotline for the joint military nerve centre. To avoid disappointing the little ones, NORAD's director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, ordered his staff to "check" the radar to see where Santa might be and update the children calling in on his location. When not spreading holiday cheer, NORAD conducts aerospace and maritime control and warning operations -- including monitoring for missile launches from North Korea, something perhaps on Santa's mind as he guided his reindeer-hauled sleigh over Pyongyang. The tracker, which has been modernized and moved online to noradsanta.org, includes a 3D map showing Santa's movements in real-time, as well as a ticker -- constantly shooting upward -- showing approximately how many presents have been delivered. "North American Aerospace Defense Command always does a fantastic job helping us keep tabs on Santa's navigational heading and bearing in the skies above," astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second person to ever walk on the Moon, said on social media. Also read | Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms Last year, US President Joe Biden joined in the fun at NORAD's call centre, taking calls from children. As of Tuesday morning, some 1.2 billion presents had been delivered, according to NORAD. 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.

Mystery drones won't interfere with Santa's work: US tracker

<p><span class="region">New York City, United States</span>
<p><meta content="uuidXq2astecDgjE" name="uuid"/></p></p>
<p>The illegal immigrant from Guatemala who has been accused of torching a sleeping woman on a Brooklyn subway two days back had been deported back to his home country in June 2018, but he re-entered the United States (US) at some point, American media reported late Monday (Dec 23).</p>
<p>The migrant was identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta. He was arrested on murder and arson charges in the woman’s death but is yet to appear in front of a judge.</p>
<p>The attack happened on Sunday morning on a stationary F train at the Coney Island station in Brooklyn. </p>
<p>Authorities say Zapeta approached the woman, who was sitting motionless in the train car and may have been sleeping, and used a lighter to set her clothing on fire.</p>
<h2><strong>Deportation to Guatemala and re-entry to US</strong></h2>
<p>American media reported that Zapeta was nabbed at the border in Arizona on June 1, 2018, and deported back home a week later. However, he re-entered the US illegally at some point.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-subway-horror-illegal-immigrant-sebastian-zapeta-charged-for-setting-sleeping-woman-on-fire-786328">New York subway horror: Illegal immigrant Sebastian Zapeta charged for setting sleeping woman on fire </a></strong></p>
<p>A report by Fox9 said that a Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by the police matched a service centre for the Samaritan Daytop Village, which provides housing and substance abuse support. </p>
<h2><strong>New York governor faces calls to resign </strong></h2>
<p>New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, has been facing calls to step down from the post after she shared a post on social media about the improvement in subway safety on the same day the woman was set on fire by Zapeta.</p>
<p>Among those who have demanded her resignation is billionaire Elon Musk.</p>
<p><strong>Also watch | NYC subway fire: New York Governor Hochul faces calls to resign</strong></p>
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/2412_musk_7pm-1735052417-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2412_musk_7pm.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=104&tags=Kathy Hochul,migrant worker,resignation,Elon Musk" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
<p>In a post on X, Democratic Representative Ritchie Torres wrote, "Two hours ago, Kathy Hochul took a victory lap for making subways 'safer'. She congratulated herself on the same day two subway riders were stabbed in Queens (one in the face and one in the chest) and another was barbarically burned alive. Has there ever been a more tone-deaf Governor in the history of New York?"</p>
<p>Reacting to Toress' post, Musk said, "Insane. She should be recalled."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


American media reported that Sebastian Zapeta was nabbed at the border in Arizona on June 1, 2018, and deported back home a week later. However, re-entered the US illegally at some point.



New York City, United States The illegal immigrant from Guatemala who has been accused of torching a sleeping woman on a Brooklyn subway two days back had been deported back to his home country in June 2018, but he re-entered the United States (US) at some point, American media reported late Monday (Dec 23). The migrant was identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta. He was arrested on murder and arson charges in the woman’s death but is yet to appear in front of a judge. The attack happened on Sunday morning on a stationary F train at the Coney Island station in Brooklyn. Authorities say Zapeta approached the woman, who was sitting motionless in the train car and may have been sleeping, and used a lighter to set her clothing on fire. Deportation to Guatemala and re-entry to US American media reported that Zapeta was nabbed at the border in Arizona on June 1, 2018, and deported back home a week later. However, he re-entered the US illegally at some point. Also read | New York subway horror: Illegal immigrant Sebastian Zapeta charged for setting sleeping woman on fire A report by Fox9 said that a Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by the police matched a service centre for the Samaritan Daytop Village, which provides housing and substance abuse support. New York governor faces calls to resign New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, has been facing calls to step down from the post after she shared a post on social media about the improvement in subway safety on the same day the woman was set on fire by Zapeta. Among those who have demanded her resignation is billionaire Elon Musk. Also watch | NYC subway fire: New York Governor Hochul faces calls to resign In a post on X, Democratic Representative Ritchie Torres wrote, "Two hours ago, Kathy Hochul took a victory lap for making subways 'safer'. She congratulated herself on the same day two subway riders were stabbed in Queens (one in the face and one in the chest) and another was barbarically burned alive. Has there ever been a more tone-deaf Governor in the history of New York?" Reacting to Toress' post, Musk said, "Insane. She should be recalled." (With inputs from agencies)

NYC subway fire: Accused illegal Guatemalan immigrant was deported in 2018, but he snuck back

<p><span class="region">Washington, US</span>
<p><meta content="uuidxmkveiBv92Xi" name="uuid"/></p></p>
<p>US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) vetoed, opens new tab legislation to add 66 new judges to understaffed federal courts nationally, a once widely bipartisan measure that would have been the first major expansion of the federal judiciary since 1990.</p>
<p>The JUDGES Act, initially supported by many members of both parties, would have increased the number of trial court judges in 25 federal district courts in 13 states including California, Florida and Texas, in six waves every two years through 2035.</p>
<p>Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary.</p>
<p>But the outgoing Democratic president made good on a <a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/biden-vows-veto-bill-expanding-us-judiciary-after-trumps-win-2024-12-10/" target="_blank">veto threat</a> issued two days before the bill <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-house-passes-bill-expand-judiciary-despite-biden-veto-threat-2024-12-12/" target="_blank">passed</a> the Republican-led House of Representatives on Dec 12 on a 236-173 vote.</p>
<p>In a message to the Senate formally rejecting the bill, Biden said it "hastily" creates new judgeships without addressing key questions about whether new judges were needed and how they would be allocated nationally.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-removes-ban-on-whatsapp-and-google-play-state-media-confirms-786567">Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms</a></strong></p>
<p>Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana, who sponsored the bill in the Senate, said in response that the veto was "partisan politics at its worst."</p>
<p>By staggering the new judgeships over three presidential administrations, the bill's sponsors had hoped to get around lawmakers' longstanding concerns about creating new vacancies that a president of an opposing party could fill.</p>
<p>It received the Democratic-led Senate's unanimous approval in August. But the bill lingered in the Republican-led House and was only taken up for a vote after Republican President-elect Donald Trump won the Nov. 5 election and the opportunity to name the first batch of 25 judges.</p>
<p>That prompted accusations from top House Democrats, who began to abandon the measure, that their Republican colleagues had broken a central promise of the legislation by having lawmakers approve the bill when no one knew who would appoint the initial wave of judges.</p>
<p>If the bill had been enacted, Trump would have been able to fill 22 permanent and three temporary judgeships over four years in office, on top of the 100-plus judicial appointments he is already expected to make.</p>
<p>Those appointments would allow Trump to further cement his influence on the judiciary. He made 234 judicial appointments during his first term in office, including three members of the U.S. Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/makes-no-sense-trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-death-sentence-commutations-786553">'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations</a></strong></p>
<p>Biden on Friday <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/biden-secures-235th-confirmed-judicial-appointee-one-more-than-trump-2024-12-21/" target="_blank">surpassed</a> Trump's total number of judicial appointments with 235, though he named fewer appellate judges and only one U.S. Supreme Court justice during his tenure.</p>
<p><em>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.</em></p>


Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary.



Washington, US US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) vetoed, opens new tab legislation to add 66 new judges to understaffed federal courts nationally, a once widely bipartisan measure that would have been the first major expansion of the federal judiciary since 1990. The JUDGES Act, initially supported by many members of both parties, would have increased the number of trial court judges in 25 federal district courts in 13 states including California, Florida and Texas, in six waves every two years through 2035. Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary. But the outgoing Democratic president made good on a veto threat issued two days before the bill passed the Republican-led House of Representatives on Dec 12 on a 236-173 vote. In a message to the Senate formally rejecting the bill, Biden said it "hastily" creates new judgeships without addressing key questions about whether new judges were needed and how they would be allocated nationally. Also read | Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana, who sponsored the bill in the Senate, said in response that the veto was "partisan politics at its worst." By staggering the new judgeships over three presidential administrations, the bill's sponsors had hoped to get around lawmakers' longstanding concerns about creating new vacancies that a president of an opposing party could fill. It received the Democratic-led Senate's unanimous approval in August. But the bill lingered in the Republican-led House and was only taken up for a vote after Republican President-elect Donald Trump won the Nov. 5 election and the opportunity to name the first batch of 25 judges. That prompted accusations from top House Democrats, who began to abandon the measure, that their Republican colleagues had broken a central promise of the legislation by having lawmakers approve the bill when no one knew who would appoint the initial wave of judges. If the bill had been enacted, Trump would have been able to fill 22 permanent and three temporary judgeships over four years in office, on top of the 100-plus judicial appointments he is already expected to make. Those appointments would allow Trump to further cement his influence on the judiciary. He made 234 judicial appointments during his first term in office, including three members of the U.S. Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority. Also read | 'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations Biden on Friday surpassed Trump's total number of judicial appointments with 235, though he named fewer appellate judges and only one U.S. Supreme Court justice during his tenure. 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.

Biden delivers on threat to veto bill to expand US judiciary

<p><span class="region">Tehran, Iran</span>
<p>Iranian authorities have lifted a ban on Meta's instant messaging platform WhatsApp and Google Play, as a first step to scale back internet restrictions, Iranian state media reported on Tuesday.</p></p>
<p>The Islamic Republic has some of the strictest controls on Internet access in the world, but its blocks on US-based social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube are routinely bypassed by tech-savvy Iranians using virtual private networks.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'</a></p>
<p>"A positive majority vote has been reached to lift limitations on access to some popular foreign platforms such as WhatsApp and Google Play," Iran's official IRNA news agency said on Tuesday, referring to a meeting on the matter headed by President Masoud Pezeshkian.</p>
<p>"Today the first step in removing internet limitations... has been taken," IRNA cited Iran's Minister of Information and Communications Technology Sattar Hashemi as saying.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-man-of-the-hole-died-but-what-about-his-land-786529">Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land?</a></p>
<p>In September, the United States called on Big Tech to help evade online censorship in countries that heavily sensor the internet, including Iran.</p>
<p><em>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.</em></p>


The Islamic Republic has some of the strictest controls on Internet access in the world, but its blocks on US-based social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, are routinely bypassed by tech-savvy Iranians using virtual private networks.



Tehran, Iran Iranian authorities have lifted a ban on Meta's instant messaging platform WhatsApp and Google Play, as a first step to scale back internet restrictions, Iranian state media reported on Tuesday. The Islamic Republic has some of the strictest controls on Internet access in the world, but its blocks on US-based social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube are routinely bypassed by tech-savvy Iranians using virtual private networks. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' "A positive majority vote has been reached to lift limitations on access to some popular foreign platforms such as WhatsApp and Google Play," Iran's official IRNA news agency said on Tuesday, referring to a meeting on the matter headed by President Masoud Pezeshkian. "Today the first step in removing internet limitations... has been taken," IRNA cited Iran's Minister of Information and Communications Technology Sattar Hashemi as saying. Also read | Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land? In September, the United States called on Big Tech to help evade online censorship in countries that heavily sensor the internet, including Iran. 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.

Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms

<p><span class="region">New Delhi </span>
<p>On Tuesday (Dec 24), five Indian Army soldiers were killed in a vehicle accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch area. In a post on X, the White Knight Corps of the army said that the accident occurred during operational duty in Poonch.</p></p>
<p>In France, around 1,200 people were evacuated after the Eiffel Tower caught fire. Later, it was found it was a short circuit in the elevator and not a fire. An investigation was launched, and the tower was closed for maintenance. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, American Airlines lifted an hour-long ground stop of all its flights during the busy holiday travel period in the US due to an unspecified technical issue.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more </strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-indian-army-soldiers-killed-in-vehicular-accident-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-poonch-786532">Five Indian Army soldiers killed as vehicle falls into gorge in J&amp;K's Poonch</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472924-untitled-5.png"/></p>
<p>Five soldiers of the Indian Army were killed on Tuesday (Dec 24) in a vehicular accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch sector. In a post on X, the White Knight Corps of the army said that the accident occurred during operational duty in Poonch.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/technical-issue-forces-american-airlines-to-ground-all-us-flights-786512">American Airlines resumes all US flights grounded due to technical glitch</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472910-untitled-design-67.png"/></p>
<p>American Airlines on Tuesday (Dec 24) lifted an hour-long ground stop of all its flights during the busy holiday travel period in the US due to an unspecified technical issue.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-breaks-out-in-eiffel-tower-12000-people-evacuated-report-786492">Fire breaks out in Eiffel Tower, thousands evacuated: Report</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472900-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-2.png"/></p>
<p>Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). After the chaos, the tower's management company said it was not a fire but a short circuit, the British news agency Mirror reported. </p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542">'Will act against them...,' Israel vows to target Houthi leaders</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/05/24/433536-untitled-design-2024-05-24t131448875.png"/></p>
<p>After Houthi militants in Yemen fired ballistic missiles in Israel on Tuesday (Dec 24), Defense Minister Israel Katz said that Israel will begin targeting the Houthi rebel group, further vowing that Israel will not allow missile and drone fire on the country. </p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-opposition-considering-to-impeach-acting-president-over-refusal-to-meet-partys-demand-786445">South Korea opposition considering to impeach acting president</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2022/12/14/318128-untitled-design-2022-12-14t131202039.png"/></p>
<p>South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) on Tuesday (Dec 24) said that they are considering impeaching acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo after he refused to sign into law special bills to investigate his impeached predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee by Christmas Eve. </p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agra-gym-trainer-posed-as-raw-agent-allegedly-rapes-canadian-woman-786480">Agra gym trainer poses as RAW agent, allegedly rapes Canadian woman</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/04/29/428030-wion-images-2024-04-29t001432002.png"/></p>
<p>A gym trainer from India's Agra has been charged with "rape" and "criminal intimidation" for sexually assaulting and exploiting a Canadian woman, posing himself as a RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) agent.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-factory-explosion-12-killed-four-injured-in-weapons-factory-blast-786522">Turkey factory explosion: 12 killed, four injured in blast at explosives unit</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472917-untitled-design-2.jpg"/></p>
<p>A blast ripped through an explosives factory in northwest Turkey on Tuesday, killing 12 people and injuring four, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said, adding that an investigation had been launched.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/makes-no-sense-trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-death-sentence-commutations-786553">'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472939-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-4.png"/></p>
<p>US President-elect Donald Trump blasted the current president Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. The outgoing US president announced his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. </p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-believe-there-has-been-a-lapse-olympic-medallist-manu-bhaker-reacts-to-khel-ratna-award-snub-786494">Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker reacts to Khel Ratna award snub</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/07/28/446147-untitled-design-2024-07-28t192731809.png"/></p>
<p>Two-time Olympic medallist shooter Manu Bhaker has asked everyone to 'stop speculating' on her Khel Ratna award snub. The comments come after her father made 'strong-worded' remarks about Bhaker not being in the list of award recipients.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-aishwarya-rai-makes-an-appearance-on-academys-instagram-page-thanks-to-jodha-akbar-786418">Aishwarya Rai makes an appearance on Academy's IG page thanks to Jodha Akbar</a></strong></p>
<p><img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472850-your-paragraph-text-43.png"/></p>
<p>Aishwarya Rai just got featured on the official social media accounts of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the body that organises the Oscars annually. On Monday, the Academy shared a video clip of Aishwarya Rai from the hit film <em>Jodha Akbar</em> with a special announcement. The 2008 film featured Aishwarya Rai as Queen Jodhabai and Hrithik Roshan as Mughal Emperor Akbar.</p>



Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world.



New Delhi On Tuesday (Dec 24), five Indian Army soldiers were killed in a vehicle accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch area. In a post on X, the White Knight Corps of the army said that the accident occurred during operational duty in Poonch. In France, around 1,200 people were evacuated after the Eiffel Tower caught fire. Later, it was found it was a short circuit in the elevator and not a fire. An investigation was launched, and the tower was closed for maintenance. Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, American Airlines lifted an hour-long ground stop of all its flights during the busy holiday travel period in the US due to an unspecified technical issue. Click on the headlines to read more Five Indian Army soldiers killed as vehicle falls into gorge in J&K's Poonch Five soldiers of the Indian Army were killed on Tuesday (Dec 24) in a vehicular accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch sector. In a post on X, the White Knight Corps of the army said that the accident occurred during operational duty in Poonch. American Airlines resumes all US flights grounded due to technical glitch American Airlines on Tuesday (Dec 24) lifted an hour-long ground stop of all its flights during the busy holiday travel period in the US due to an unspecified technical issue. Fire breaks out in Eiffel Tower, thousands evacuated: Report Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). After the chaos, the tower's management company said it was not a fire but a short circuit, the British news agency Mirror reported. 'Will act against them...,' Israel vows to target Houthi leaders After Houthi militants in Yemen fired ballistic missiles in Israel on Tuesday (Dec 24), Defense Minister Israel Katz said that Israel will begin targeting the Houthi rebel group, further vowing that Israel will not allow missile and drone fire on the country. South Korea opposition considering to impeach acting president South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) on Tuesday (Dec 24) said that they are considering impeaching acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo after he refused to sign into law special bills to investigate his impeached predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee by Christmas Eve. Agra gym trainer poses as RAW agent, allegedly rapes Canadian woman A gym trainer from India's Agra has been charged with "rape" and "criminal intimidation" for sexually assaulting and exploiting a Canadian woman, posing himself as a RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) agent. Turkey factory explosion: 12 killed, four injured in blast at explosives unit A blast ripped through an explosives factory in northwest Turkey on Tuesday, killing 12 people and injuring four, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said, adding that an investigation had been launched. 'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations US President-elect Donald Trump blasted the current president Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. The outgoing US president announced his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker reacts to Khel Ratna award snub Two-time Olympic medallist shooter Manu Bhaker has asked everyone to 'stop speculating' on her Khel Ratna award snub. The comments come after her father made 'strong-worded' remarks about Bhaker not being in the list of award recipients. Aishwarya Rai makes an appearance on Academy's IG page thanks to Jodha Akbar Aishwarya Rai just got featured on the official social media accounts of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the body that organises the Oscars annually. On Monday, the Academy shared a video clip of Aishwarya Rai from the hit film Jodha Akbar with a special announcement. The 2008 film featured Aishwarya Rai as Queen Jodhabai and Hrithik Roshan as Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Top 10 world news: 5 Indian Army soldiers killed in J&K; US flights resumed after technical glitch, and more

<p><span class="region">United States</span>
<p>Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world. Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring.</p></p>
<h2><strong>Origin of NORAD Santa Tracker</strong></h2>
<p>The NORAD Santa Tracker has an unexpected origin story. In 1955, a Colorado Springs department store mistakenly printed the wrong phone number in an ad that invited children to call Santa. Instead of connecting to the North Pole, the number rang through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. When a child called the base asking to speak to Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to have a little fun. He assured the child that his team was tracking Santa and would provide updates throughout the night.</p>
<p>What started as a playful, unplanned moment quickly became a tradition. Every Christmas Eve, the military base began receiving more and more calls from children, eager to know where Santa was. After CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the tradition continued, and NORAD became the official organisation responsible for tracking Santa on his worldwide journey.</p>
<h2><strong>How Santa Journeys from Southern Pacific to Your Living Room</strong></h2>
<p>Santa’s journey kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, heading west to visit the South Pacific. From there, he makes stops in New Zealand and Australia, then travels through Japan, Asia, Africa, and Western Europe, before crossing over to the Americas. While NORAD can predict his general path, the journey is always affected by the unpredictability of weather, making his exact arrival time at each house a bit of a mystery.</p>
<p>NORAD’s website provides hourly updates on Santa’s location as he crosses time zones and continents. It’s believed that Santa only visits homes when children are asleep, which is why he typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on where you live. If children are still awake when he arrives, he’ll move on to the next house, only returning when they’ve fallen asleep.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-sleigh-must-be-in-the-shop-santa-on-bike-gets-away-from-florida-cops-in-high-speed-chase-786439"><strong>Also read: Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase</strong></a></p>
<h2><strong>Tracking Santa in Real-Time</strong></h2>
<p>Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a global phenomenon. Over 100,000 children call NORAD’s dedicated hotline each year to ask about Santa’s whereabouts. Millions more follow Santa’s journey online, with updates available in nine languages, making it accessible to families around the world. NORAD has created a user-friendly online platform with a website and mobile apps, allowing families to track Santa in real time, from his North Pole launch to his final stop at the International Date Line.</p>
<p>One of the most intriguing parts of Santa’s journey, according to NORAD, is how he manages to visit the entire world in just one night. The military organization humorously suggests that the "only logical explanation" is that Santa operates within a unique "time-space continuum." They report that Santa doesn’t experience time the same way humans do—what feels like 24 hours to us might be days, weeks, or even months for Santa. This magical timeline helps him deliver presents to all the good children in the world.</p>
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<h2><strong>How to Track Santa?</strong></h2>
<p>NORAD makes it simple for families to follow Santa’s progress. The official Santa Tracker website, which launched early in December, features a countdown to Christmas Eve along with interactive games and fun activities. On Christmas Eve, the tracker goes live at 4 a.m. ET, providing continuous updates on Santa’s location until 2 a.m. on Christmas Day.</p>
<p>For mobile users, NORAD offers a free Santa Tracker app available for download on both Apple and Google platforms. Google also offers its version of a Santa tracker, complete with a countdown and interactive games. As Santa takes flight, families have plenty of options for tracking his journey, each offering a slightly different experience.</p>
<h2><strong>Government Shutdowns Do Not Bother Santa</strong></h2>
<p>NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become so iconic that it’s impervious to typical political hurdles. Even if the U.S. government shuts down, NORAD assures the public that the Santa Tracker will continue to operate without disruption. On Christmas Eve, NORAD will once again provide real-time updates, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues, no matter what.</p>
<p>Normally, NORAD’s mission involves defending North American airspace from potential threats like missiles and surveillance objects. But on Christmas Eve, the highly trained personnel at NORAD switch gears to answer questions from children asking about Santa’s whereabouts, like, “When will Santa arrive at my house?” or “Am I on the naughty or nice list?”</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus</strong></p>
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<h2><strong>A Joyous Holiday Tradition</strong></h2>
<p>What started as a simple, spontaneous interaction between a child and a military officer in 1955 has grown into a global tradition. The NORAD Santa Tracker now captivates millions of people around the world, spreading holiday cheer and bringing families together. Whether you’re following Santa on NORAD’s tracker, enjoying his journey on other platforms, or just taking in the magic of the season, one thing is certain: the tradition of tracking Santa will continue for generations to come.</p>
<p>It’s a reminder that sometimes the most magical traditions have the most unexpected beginnings, and that the spirit of Christmas can bring people from all walks of life together, no matter where they are in the world.</p>
<h2><strong>History of Santa Claus</strong></h2>
<p>The modern-day figure of Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas, who was born in the 4th century in Asia Minor (now part of Turkey) to wealthy parents, both of whom died in an epidemic. He was raised by his uncle, a bishop.Following the teachings of Jesus Christ, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his entire inheritance to aid the poor, sick, and needy. Because of his acts of kindness, St. Nicholas is seen as a miracle worker in the East and is considered the patron saint of children and sailors in the West. He became the Bishop of Myra at a young age.</p>
<p>The tradition of hanging stockings for presents originates from a well-known story about St. Nicholas.A poor man with three daughters couldn't afford dowries to marry them off. One night, St. Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of the man's house. The bag landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. The same act was repeated for the second daughter. The father, curious, caught St. Nicholas in the act of giving a bag of gold to the third daughter. Though St. Nicholas asked him not to tell anyone, the story spread quickly. From then on, when someone received a secret gift, it was believed to be from Nicholas.</p>
<h2><strong>Why Does Santa love his Reindeer?</strong></h2>
<p>Reindeer symbolize wisdom, resourcefulness, cleverness, knowledge, creativity, inventiveness and cleverness. They are honored for their nobility and representing continuation of the tribe. Other members of herbivorous Cervidae family are deer, elk and moose. Each member has its own unique symbolism based on its attributes. Deer symbolizes gentleness and caring; elk symbolises stamina and agility; moose symbolizes self-esteem and joyful spirit of sharing accomplishments.</p>
<p>Reindeer are cunning survivalists and able to live in brutal environments. They are symbolic of savvy knowledge; observing the reindeer pawing beneath packed snow to find herbs and grasses led indigenous peoples to medicinal herbs. As one of the first beasts that humankind relied on for food, supplies, clothing and tools, the reindeer gained high status. Thus it is an animal of nobility and worthiness.</p>
<h2><strong>Why Does Santa Wear Red?</strong></h2>
<p>Santa Claus's red suit has its roots in both tradition and marketing. In the 19th century, illustrator Thomas Nast popularised the image of Santa wearing red, drawing from European folklore. The colour symbolises warmth, cheer, and festivity, reinforcing Santa's joyful persona. Over time, this image has become so entrenched in popular culture that it’s now synonymous with the holiday figure, far beyond its commercial beginnings.</p>
<p><em>(Inputs from other sources)</em></p>


Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring.



United States Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world. Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring. Origin of NORAD Santa Tracker The NORAD Santa Tracker has an unexpected origin story. In 1955, a Colorado Springs department store mistakenly printed the wrong phone number in an ad that invited children to call Santa. Instead of connecting to the North Pole, the number rang through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. When a child called the base asking to speak to Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to have a little fun. He assured the child that his team was tracking Santa and would provide updates throughout the night. What started as a playful, unplanned moment quickly became a tradition. Every Christmas Eve, the military base began receiving more and more calls from children, eager to know where Santa was. After CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the tradition continued, and NORAD became the official organisation responsible for tracking Santa on his worldwide journey. How Santa Journeys from Southern Pacific to Your Living Room Santa’s journey kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, heading west to visit the South Pacific. From there, he makes stops in New Zealand and Australia, then travels through Japan, Asia, Africa, and Western Europe, before crossing over to the Americas. While NORAD can predict his general path, the journey is always affected by the unpredictability of weather, making his exact arrival time at each house a bit of a mystery. NORAD’s website provides hourly updates on Santa’s location as he crosses time zones and continents. It’s believed that Santa only visits homes when children are asleep, which is why he typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on where you live. If children are still awake when he arrives, he’ll move on to the next house, only returning when they’ve fallen asleep. Also read: Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase Tracking Santa in Real-Time Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a global phenomenon. Over 100,000 children call NORAD’s dedicated hotline each year to ask about Santa’s whereabouts. Millions more follow Santa’s journey online, with updates available in nine languages, making it accessible to families around the world. NORAD has created a user-friendly online platform with a website and mobile apps, allowing families to track Santa in real time, from his North Pole launch to his final stop at the International Date Line. One of the most intriguing parts of Santa’s journey, according to NORAD, is how he manages to visit the entire world in just one night. The military organization humorously suggests that the "only logical explanation" is that Santa operates within a unique "time-space continuum." They report that Santa doesn’t experience time the same way humans do—what feels like 24 hours to us might be days, weeks, or even months for Santa. This magical timeline helps him deliver presents to all the good children in the world. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official NORAD Tracks Santa! (@noradtrackssanta_official) × How to Track Santa? NORAD makes it simple for families to follow Santa’s progress. The official Santa Tracker website, which launched early in December, features a countdown to Christmas Eve along with interactive games and fun activities. On Christmas Eve, the tracker goes live at 4 a.m. ET, providing continuous updates on Santa’s location until 2 a.m. on Christmas Day. For mobile users, NORAD offers a free Santa Tracker app available for download on both Apple and Google platforms. Google also offers its version of a Santa tracker, complete with a countdown and interactive games. As Santa takes flight, families have plenty of options for tracking his journey, each offering a slightly different experience. Government Shutdowns Do Not Bother Santa NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become so iconic that it’s impervious to typical political hurdles. Even if the U.S. government shuts down, NORAD assures the public that the Santa Tracker will continue to operate without disruption. On Christmas Eve, NORAD will once again provide real-time updates, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues, no matter what. Normally, NORAD’s mission involves defending North American airspace from potential threats like missiles and surveillance objects. But on Christmas Eve, the highly trained personnel at NORAD switch gears to answer questions from children asking about Santa’s whereabouts, like, “When will Santa arrive at my house?” or “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” Watch | Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus × A Joyous Holiday Tradition What started as a simple, spontaneous interaction between a child and a military officer in 1955 has grown into a global tradition. The NORAD Santa Tracker now captivates millions of people around the world, spreading holiday cheer and bringing families together. Whether you’re following Santa on NORAD’s tracker, enjoying his journey on other platforms, or just taking in the magic of the season, one thing is certain: the tradition of tracking Santa will continue for generations to come. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most magical traditions have the most unexpected beginnings, and that the spirit of Christmas can bring people from all walks of life together, no matter where they are in the world. History of Santa Claus The modern-day figure of Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas, who was born in the 4th century in Asia Minor (now part of Turkey) to wealthy parents, both of whom died in an epidemic. He was raised by his uncle, a bishop.Following the teachings of Jesus Christ, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his entire inheritance to aid the poor, sick, and needy. Because of his acts of kindness, St. Nicholas is seen as a miracle worker in the East and is considered the patron saint of children and sailors in the West. He became the Bishop of Myra at a young age. The tradition of hanging stockings for presents originates from a well-known story about St. Nicholas.A poor man with three daughters couldn't afford dowries to marry them off. One night, St. Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of the man's house. The bag landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. The same act was repeated for the second daughter. The father, curious, caught St. Nicholas in the act of giving a bag of gold to the third daughter. Though St. Nicholas asked him not to tell anyone, the story spread quickly. From then on, when someone received a secret gift, it was believed to be from Nicholas. Why Does Santa love his Reindeer? Reindeer symbolize wisdom, resourcefulness, cleverness, knowledge, creativity, inventiveness and cleverness. They are honored for their nobility and representing continuation of the tribe. Other members of herbivorous Cervidae family are deer, elk and moose. Each member has its own unique symbolism based on its attributes. Deer symbolizes gentleness and caring; elk symbolises stamina and agility; moose symbolizes self-esteem and joyful spirit of sharing accomplishments. Reindeer are cunning survivalists and able to live in brutal environments. They are symbolic of savvy knowledge; observing the reindeer pawing beneath packed snow to find herbs and grasses led indigenous peoples to medicinal herbs. As one of the first beasts that humankind relied on for food, supplies, clothing and tools, the reindeer gained high status. Thus it is an animal of nobility and worthiness. Why Does Santa Wear Red? Santa Claus's red suit has its roots in both tradition and marketing. In the 19th century, illustrator Thomas Nast popularised the image of Santa wearing red, drawing from European folklore. The colour symbolises warmth, cheer, and festivity, reinforcing Santa's joyful persona. Over time, this image has become so entrenched in popular culture that it’s now synonymous with the holiday figure, far beyond its commercial beginnings. (Inputs from other sources)

NORAD’s Santa Tracker: A holiday tradition that brings the world closer

<p><span class="region">Washington, US</span>
<p>US President-elect Donald Trump blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. </p></p>
<p>The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. </p>
<p>The Republican posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday (Dec 24) saying, "Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country." Trump further said that if one would hear the acts of each inmate, they would not believe that Biden did what he did on Monday. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Donald Trump's Ally Gaetz Paid For Sex &amp; Drugs While In Office, Reveals Report</strong></p>
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<p>"Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can't believe this is happening!" Trump wrote in his post on Truth Social. </p>
<p>But Biden did not pardon the other three inmates. </p>
<p>Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency:</p>
<h2>Dylann Roof</h2>
<p>Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015.</p>
<p>On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. </p>
<p>All of Roof's victims were African Americans.</p>
<p>When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. </p>
<p>On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. </p>
<h2>Dzhokhar Tsarnaev</h2>
<p>Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013.</p>
<p>On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of homemade pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. </p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-man-of-the-hole-died-but-what-about-his-land-786529">Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land?</a></strong> </p>
<p>Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon.</p>
<p>In the ensuing shootout, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured.</p>
<p>He was charged with the usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection.</p>
<h2>Robert Bowers</h2>
<p>Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018.</p>
<p>On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors.</p>
<p>The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting.</p>
<p>Bowers, 46 years old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts.



Washington, US US President-elect Donald Trump blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. The Republican posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday (Dec 24) saying, "Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country." Trump further said that if one would hear the acts of each inmate, they would not believe that Biden did what he did on Monday. Watch | Donald Trump's Ally Gaetz Paid For Sex & Drugs While In Office, Reveals Report "Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can't believe this is happening!" Trump wrote in his post on Truth Social. But Biden did not pardon the other three inmates. Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency: Dylann Roof Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015. On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. All of Roof's victims were African Americans. When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013. On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of homemade pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. Also read | Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land? Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon. In the ensuing shootout, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured. He was charged with the usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection. Robert Bowers Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018. On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors. The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting. Bowers, 46 years old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations

<p><span class="region">Tel Aviv, Israel</span>
<p>After Houthi militants in Yemen fired ballistic missiles in Israel on Tuesday (Dec 24), Defence Minister Israel Katz said that Israel will begin targeting the Houthi rebel group leaders, further vowing that Israel will not allow missile and drone fire on the country. </p></p>
<p>Israel, however, intercepted the missile fired by the Houthi group, but sirens wailed in Tel Aviv and other parts of central Israel in the morning.</p>
<p>The Israeli military said the missile had been successfully intercepted outside of its territory, adding that there were no reports of casualties. </p>
<p>“Just as we took care of Sinwar in Gaza, Haniyeh in Tehran, and Nasrallah in Beirut, we will deal with the heads of the Houthis in Sana’a or anywhere in Yemen,” Katz said, referring to the leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-behead-their-leaders-israel-admits-it-killed-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-786344"><strong>Also read: ‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel confirms it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</strong></a></p>
<p>"We will act both against their infrastructure and against them to remove the threat,” he added. </p>
<p>Katz further threatened the Houthis' Iranian backers, vowing “whoever sponsors the Houthi terror in Hodeida or Sana’a will pay the full price.”</p>
<p>Iran-backed Houthis have been involved in firing on Israel as they are showing solidarity with their allies after the October 7 attack. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Says, 'Ordered Israeli Forces To Destroy Houthi Infrastructure'</strong></p>
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<p>However, now the attacks have been happening more frequently, raising the chances of retaliation. </p>
<p>Earlier on Monday, Katz threatened to assassinate Houthi leaders to persuade them to agree to the terms. </p>
<p>“We will inflict a devastating blow to the Houthi terrorist organization in Yemen,” said Katz. “We will hit its strategic infrastructure and behead its leadership.”</p>
<p><em>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.</em></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


“We will act both against their infrastructure and against them to remove the threat,” Katz said. 



Tel Aviv, Israel After Houthi militants in Yemen fired ballistic missiles in Israel on Tuesday (Dec 24), Defence Minister Israel Katz said that Israel will begin targeting the Houthi rebel group leaders, further vowing that Israel will not allow missile and drone fire on the country. Israel, however, intercepted the missile fired by the Houthi group, but sirens wailed in Tel Aviv and other parts of central Israel in the morning. The Israeli military said the missile had been successfully intercepted outside of its territory, adding that there were no reports of casualties. “Just as we took care of Sinwar in Gaza, Haniyeh in Tehran, and Nasrallah in Beirut, we will deal with the heads of the Houthis in Sana’a or anywhere in Yemen,” Katz said, referring to the leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah. Also read: ‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel confirms it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh "We will act both against their infrastructure and against them to remove the threat,” he added. Katz further threatened the Houthis' Iranian backers, vowing “whoever sponsors the Houthi terror in Hodeida or Sana’a will pay the full price.” Iran-backed Houthis have been involved in firing on Israel as they are showing solidarity with their allies after the October 7 attack. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Says, 'Ordered Israeli Forces To Destroy Houthi Infrastructure' × However, now the attacks have been happening more frequently, raising the chances of retaliation. Earlier on Monday, Katz threatened to assassinate Houthi leaders to persuade them to agree to the terms. “We will inflict a devastating blow to the Houthi terrorist organization in Yemen,” said Katz. “We will hit its strategic infrastructure and behead its leadership.” 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)

Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'

<p><span class="region">Washington DC, United States</span>
<p>American Airlines on Tuesday (Dec 24) lifted an hour-long ground stop of all its flights during the busy holiday travel period in the US due to an unspecified technical issue.</p></p>
<p>The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) briefly issued a nationwide ground stop for all American Airlines flights on the morning of Christmas Eve after the airline reported that a "technical issue" was affecting flights.</p>
<p>"The ground stop has now been lifted," said Bridgett Frey, assistant administrator for communications at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in a statement.  </p>
<p>The FAA said the ground stop was issued at the request of the airline, on one of the busiest travel days of the year.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-protesters-agitate-the-burning-of-christmas-tree-near-syrias-hama-786525">Hundreds hit the streets as protest erupts over burning of Christmas tree near Syria's Hama</a></p>
<p>"Our teams are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, and we apologize to our customers for the inconvenience," the airline said.</p>
<p>However, at around 8 am ET, American Airlines said the ground stop has been lifted and flights were starting to board.</p>
<p>Social media quickly filled with frustrated travellers expressing concerns about how the delay might affect their holiday plans and family reunions.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-factory-explosion-12-killed-four-injured-in-weapons-factory-blast-786522">Turkey factory explosion: 12 killed, four injured in weapons factory blast</a></p>
<p>"The issue has been fixed, and flights are now back on schedule," the airline stated. "We apologize for the disruption this morning and are doing everything we can to get passengers to their destinations as swiftly as possible."</p>
<p>The airline also mentioned that it had 3,900 flights scheduled for the day, just over half of the 6,400 flights planned for the previous day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>




“We’re currently experiencing a technical issue with all American Airlines flights. Your safety is our utmost priority. Once this is rectified, we’ll have you safely on your way to your destination,” said the airline in a statement while confirming the glitch.



Washington DC, United States American Airlines on Tuesday (Dec 24) lifted an hour-long ground stop of all its flights during the busy holiday travel period in the US due to an unspecified technical issue. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) briefly issued a nationwide ground stop for all American Airlines flights on the morning of Christmas Eve after the airline reported that a "technical issue" was affecting flights. "The ground stop has now been lifted," said Bridgett Frey, assistant administrator for communications at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in a statement. The FAA said the ground stop was issued at the request of the airline, on one of the busiest travel days of the year. Also read | Hundreds hit the streets as protest erupts over burning of Christmas tree near Syria's Hama "Our teams are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, and we apologize to our customers for the inconvenience," the airline said. However, at around 8 am ET, American Airlines said the ground stop has been lifted and flights were starting to board. Social media quickly filled with frustrated travellers expressing concerns about how the delay might affect their holiday plans and family reunions. Also read | Turkey factory explosion: 12 killed, four injured in weapons factory blast "The issue has been fixed, and flights are now back on schedule," the airline stated. "We apologize for the disruption this morning and are doing everything we can to get passengers to their destinations as swiftly as possible." The airline also mentioned that it had 3,900 flights scheduled for the day, just over half of the 6,400 flights planned for the previous day. (With inputs from agencies)

American Airlines resumes all US flights grounded due to technical glitch on Christmas eve

<p><span class="region">California, USA </span>
<p>Sunil Yadav, an infamous drug smuggler wanted in several cases in Rajasthan, was shot dead in California’s Stockton city on Tuesday (Dec 24), reported multiple news agencies. He was an ill-famed person known for getting drugs into India via the Pakistan route. Previously his name had come in connection with a case of seizure of drugs worth $35.23 million. </p></p>
<p><meta charset="utf-8"/></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Inside details </strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; According to reports <meta charset="utf-8"/><b id="docs-internal-guid-7ae97fca-7fff-9a40-5bd9-8177137c3b05"><a href="https://www.livemint.com/news/india/salman-khan-fan-threatens-guards-with-lawrence-bishnois-name-at-film-set-handed-over-to-police-11733335848261.html">Lawrence Bishnoi gang member</a></b><b> </b>has claimed the killing of Yadav.  Gangster Rohit Godara owned up to the entire incident. </p>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; "He had worked with Punjab police to get our brother Ankit Bhadu killed in an encounter. We have avenged him," said Godara, as reported by NDTV. </p>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; Previously he absconded as his name came in Ankit Bhadu's encounter death. "In the US, he was sharing information about our brothers," Godara added.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also  Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baba-siddique-murder-who-is-laurence-bishnoi-why-does-his-gang-target-salman-khan-767226">Baba Siddique murder: Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Why does his gang target Salman Khan?</a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Sunil Yadav’s details</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; Sunil belonged to Abohar in Punjab's Fazilka district. He fled to the USA two years ago and started living there under a forged identity of Rahul.  </p>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; He was on cordial terms with Lawrence Bishnoi but Ankit Bhadu's killing turned against him, according to the report. </p>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; He stayed in Dubai, and Rajasthan police had manoeuvred to get him arrested by the authorities in Dubai. He was brought back to India later.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&gt; Sunil was arrested in connection with the murder of a jeweller, Pankaj Soni, in Rajasthan's Ganganagar district but got out on bail.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The police are investigating how he was shot by Lawrence Bishnoi's gang member Rohit Godara.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch | Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Gangster Allegedly Behind NCP Leader Baba Siddique’s Murder</strong></p>
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<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Earlier arrests of Bishnoi gang members </strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Punjab Police had apprehended two members of the Bishnoi gang after an interesting chase and a shootout in Jalandhar. They seized three pistols and several cartridges from them.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The cops were fired upon by the suspect during the chase, which triggered the police to knock them down, said police. The suspects who were arrested have numerous cases registered against them, including extortion, murder, the Arms Act, and drug laws, said the police.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>) </p>


He was on cordial terms with Lawrence Bishnoi and Sunil Yadav, but the shootout has turned against him, according to the report. 



California, USA Sunil Yadav, an infamous drug smuggler wanted in several cases in Rajasthan, was shot dead in California’s Stockton city on Tuesday (Dec 24), reported multiple news agencies. He was an ill-famed person known for getting drugs into India via the Pakistan route. Previously his name had come in connection with a case of seizure of drugs worth $35.23 million. Inside details > According to reports Lawrence Bishnoi gang member has claimed the killing of Yadav. Gangster Rohit Godara owned up to the entire incident. > "He had worked with Punjab police to get our brother Ankit Bhadu killed in an encounter. We have avenged him," said Godara, as reported by NDTV. > Previously he absconded as his name came in Ankit Bhadu's encounter death. "In the US, he was sharing information about our brothers," Godara added. Also Read: Baba Siddique murder: Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Why does his gang target Salman Khan? Sunil Yadav’s details > Sunil belonged to Abohar in Punjab's Fazilka district. He fled to the USA two years ago and started living there under a forged identity of Rahul. > He was on cordial terms with Lawrence Bishnoi but Ankit Bhadu's killing turned against him, according to the report. > He stayed in Dubai, and Rajasthan police had manoeuvred to get him arrested by the authorities in Dubai. He was brought back to India later. > Sunil was arrested in connection with the murder of a jeweller, Pankaj Soni, in Rajasthan's Ganganagar district but got out on bail. The police are investigating how he was shot by Lawrence Bishnoi's gang member Rohit Godara. Watch | Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Gangster Allegedly Behind NCP Leader Baba Siddique’s Murder Earlier arrests of Bishnoi gang members The Punjab Police had apprehended two members of the Bishnoi gang after an interesting chase and a shootout in Jalandhar. They seized three pistols and several cartridges from them. The cops were fired upon by the suspect during the chase, which triggered the police to knock them down, said police. The suspects who were arrested have numerous cases registered against them, including extortion, murder, the Arms Act, and drug laws, said the police. (With inputs from agencies)

Wanted drug smuggler Sunil Yadav shot dead in US, Lawrence Bishnoi gang claims responsibility

Breaking all records, NASA's Parker Solar Probe is now diving deeper into the sun's inferno than any human-made object. The spacecraft, designed to withstand temperatures of 1,400°C and endure radiation levels that would destroy any ordinary spacecraft in seconds, is attempting to get closer to the sun. Our next story takes a look at the fascinating journey and the answers the mission is trying to find. Watch in for more details!



NASA's Parker Probe Pushes Limits Near The Sun

<p><span class="region">California, US </span>
<p>A part of the Santa Cru Wharf in California collapsed in high surf on Monday (Dec 23), sending three people into the water, according to the authorities. </p></p>
<p>Meanwhile, a man died at a nearby beach after being trapped under debris by a wave. </p>
<p>The three people who were pulled from the water included two engineers and a project manager who were inspecting the structure. They were later taken to a hospital, according to city officials. </p>
<p>No one has been believed to be missing or is seriously injured, Mayor Fred Keeley of Santa Cruz said.</p>
<p>The wharf collapse is one of the several impacts of the weather-affected region, as flooding and high surf led to multiple road closures and evacuations. </p>
<p>According to the Santa Cruz officials, the collapse happened at around 12:45 pm. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bird-flu-crisis-in-us-drives-egg-prices-to-an-all-time-high-786178"><strong>Also read: Bird flu crisis in US drives egg prices to an all-time high</strong></a></p>
<p>"A portion of the Santa Cruz pier has collapsed, and is floating away," the National Weather Service Bay Area posted on X. </p>
<p>"Look at the ominous wave action on the horizon. You are risking your life, and those of the people that would need to try and save you by getting in or too close to the water," they added. </p>
<p>The wharf has been closed now until further notice, officials said. Moreover, the public is asked to stay away from the area. </p>
<p>Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley said that the part of the pier that collapsed "was a portion of the municipal wharf that has already been determined to need to be taken down and repaired over time."</p>
<p>Keeley further said that it included the Dolphin restaurant and one of the public washrooms on the wharf. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Major Storm Pounds California’s Central Coast</strong></p>
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<p>The area of the wharf that washed away has been closed to the public since January this year, officials noted. </p>
<p>We lost "many pilings, a lot of the deck of the wharf itself, as well as the restroom and what remained of the Dolphin restaurant," the mayor said. </p>
<p>The collapse comes as the National Weather Service issued a high surf warning and informed that a dangerously large breaking wave of 30 to 40 feet would be possible. </p>
<p>They warned some specific regions, including San Francisco, the coastal North Bay and Point Reyes National Seashore, the San Francisco Peninsula coast, Monterey Bay, and the Big Sur coast.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Meanwhile, a man died at a nearby beach after being trapped under debris by a wave. 



California, US A part of the Santa Cru Wharf in California collapsed in high surf on Monday (Dec 23), sending three people into the water, according to the authorities. Meanwhile, a man died at a nearby beach after being trapped under debris by a wave. The three people who were pulled from the water included two engineers and a project manager who were inspecting the structure. They were later taken to a hospital, according to city officials. No one has been believed to be missing or is seriously injured, Mayor Fred Keeley of Santa Cruz said. The wharf collapse is one of the several impacts of the weather-affected region, as flooding and high surf led to multiple road closures and evacuations. According to the Santa Cruz officials, the collapse happened at around 12:45 pm. Also read: Bird flu crisis in US drives egg prices to an all-time high "A portion of the Santa Cruz pier has collapsed, and is floating away," the National Weather Service Bay Area posted on X. "Look at the ominous wave action on the horizon. You are risking your life, and those of the people that would need to try and save you by getting in or too close to the water," they added. The wharf has been closed now until further notice, officials said. Moreover, the public is asked to stay away from the area. Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley said that the part of the pier that collapsed "was a portion of the municipal wharf that has already been determined to need to be taken down and repaired over time." Keeley further said that it included the Dolphin restaurant and one of the public washrooms on the wharf. Watch | Major Storm Pounds California’s Central Coast × The area of the wharf that washed away has been closed to the public since January this year, officials noted. We lost "many pilings, a lot of the deck of the wharf itself, as well as the restroom and what remained of the Dolphin restaurant," the mayor said. The collapse comes as the National Weather Service issued a high surf warning and informed that a dangerously large breaking wave of 30 to 40 feet would be possible. They warned some specific regions, including San Francisco, the coastal North Bay and Point Reyes National Seashore, the San Francisco Peninsula coast, Monterey Bay, and the Big Sur coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Santa Cruz Wharf partially collapses in high surf, three fall into ocean

Canada, then the Panama Canal, now Donald Trump again wants Greenland. Our next report tries to explore why the U.S. president-elect is hinting at an American territorial expansion. Watch in for more details!

Trump Is Teasing US Expansion Into Panama, Greenland & Canada

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