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New Delhi
Hunger is at a record high in the Arab region, with alarming levels of food insecurity and malnutrition, revealed a new report from Unthe ited Nations.
The region is unlikely to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to food security and nutrition by 2030, said the report, '2024 Near East and North Africa Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition' , which covered 22 countries in West Asia, North, and East Africa.
In 2023, approximately 66.1 million people—about 14 per cent of the region’s population—suffered from hunger. 
The report noted that nearly 40 per cent of the population, or 186.5 million people, faced moderate or severe food insecurity. 
This is a 1.1 percentage point increase from the previous year, with 72.7 million enduring severe food insecurity.
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<h2>Conflict Driving Food Insecurity</h2>
In 2022, a revised methodology found that 151.3 million people across the Arab region could not afford a healthy diet, with conflict-hit nations seeing the highest rates, at 41.2%.
Conflict is the primary factor contributing to food insecurity and malnutrition, alongside economic challenges, climate extremes, and growing income inequality. 
The situation worsened in 2023, with food prices continuing to rise. 
In conflict-ridden nations, undernourishment rates reached 26.4 per cent, a staggering four times higher than in peaceful countries, where the rate was just 6.6 per cent.
<h2>Malnutrition crisis: Obesity, wasting, and nutrient deficiencies</h2>
The UN report also underscored the continuing malnutrition issues in the region, such as growing obesity rates among children and adults, a rise in wasting, and nutrient deficiencies like anaemia among women. 
Somalia, Yemen, Syria and Comoros recorded the highest levels of undernourishment.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwiCipj1lcCKAxWnbfUHHW2PNuwQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/only-12-aid-trucks-reached-starving-civilians-in-northern-gaza-since-october-reveals-oxfam-786062&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCipj1lcCKAxWnbfUHHW2PNuwQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam</a>
Although stunting rates have seen a slight decline from 28 per cent in 2000 to 19.9 per cent in 2022, tackling malnutrition remains a major challenge. 
The region also experienced higher-than-average rates of child wasting, especially in low-income countries, where 14.6 per cent of children are affected.
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Additionally, the prevalence of overweight children under five in the region stood at 9.5  per cent in 2022, almost double the global average. 
This figure has increased by 8 per cent since 2000, with the highest rates found in Libya, Tunisia, and Egypt. 
The anaemia rate among women of reproductive age was also concerning, at 33.2 per cent, higher than the global average, with the highest rates in low-income countries at 43.9 per cent.
Watch: Trump Picks Massad Boulos To Serve As Adviser On Arab, Middle Eastern Affairs

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When it comes to adults, obesity rates remain critically high in the Arab States, with 32.1 per cent of adults affected in 2022—more than double the global average. Egypt, Qatar and Kuwait had the highest obesity rates in the region.
Despite some progress in reducing malnutrition, the Arab region faces significant challenges in reversing the hunger crisis, worsened by conflict and economic issues. 
"Urgent and sustained efforts are needed to ensure that no one is left behind in this crisis," warned the UN.

In 2023, approximately 66.1 million people—about 14 per cent of the region’s population—suffered from hunger. 



New Delhi Hunger is at a record high in the Arab region, with alarming levels of food insecurity and malnutrition, revealed a new report from Unthe ited Nations. The region is unlikely to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to food security and nutrition by 2030, said the report, '2024 Near East and North Africa Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition' , which covered 22 countries in West Asia, North, and East Africa. In 2023, approximately 66.1 million people—about 14 per cent of the region’s population—suffered from hunger. The report noted that nearly 40 per cent of the population, or 186.5 million people, faced moderate or severe food insecurity. This is a 1.1 percentage point increase from the previous year, with 72.7 million enduring severe food insecurity. Conflict Driving Food Insecurity In 2022, a revised methodology found that 151.3 million people across the Arab region could not afford a healthy diet, with conflict-hit nations seeing the highest rates, at 41.2%. Conflict is the primary factor contributing to food insecurity and malnutrition, alongside economic challenges, climate extremes, and growing income inequality. The situation worsened in 2023, with food prices continuing to rise. In conflict-ridden nations, undernourishment rates reached 26.4 per cent, a staggering four times higher than in peaceful countries, where the rate was just 6.6 per cent. Malnutrition crisis: Obesity, wasting, and nutrient deficiencies The UN report also underscored the continuing malnutrition issues in the region, such as growing obesity rates among children and adults, a rise in wasting, and nutrient deficiencies like anaemia among women. Somalia, Yemen, Syria and Comoros recorded the highest levels of undernourishment. Also read: Only 12 aid trucks reached starving civilians in northern Gaza since October, reveals Oxfam Although stunting rates have seen a slight decline from 28 per cent in 2000 to 19.9 per cent in 2022, tackling malnutrition remains a major challenge. The region also experienced higher-than-average rates of child wasting, especially in low-income countries, where 14.6 per cent of children are affected. Additionally, the prevalence of overweight children under five in the region stood at 9.5 per cent in 2022, almost double the global average. This figure has increased by 8 per cent since 2000, with the highest rates found in Libya, Tunisia, and Egypt. The anaemia rate among women of reproductive age was also concerning, at 33.2 per cent, higher than the global average, with the highest rates in low-income countries at 43.9 per cent. Watch: Trump Picks Massad Boulos To Serve As Adviser On Arab, Middle Eastern Affairs × When it comes to adults, obesity rates remain critically high in the Arab States, with 32.1 per cent of adults affected in 2022—more than double the global average. Egypt, Qatar and Kuwait had the highest obesity rates in the region. Despite some progress in reducing malnutrition, the Arab region faces significant challenges in reversing the hunger crisis, worsened by conflict and economic issues. "Urgent and sustained efforts are needed to ensure that no one is left behind in this crisis," warned the UN.

WION Data Lab: UN report highlights hunger levels in the Arab world worsening at alarming rates

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has suspended trading in Bharat Global Developers following an extraordinary 10,000% surge in its stock. The regulatory action comes as authorities investigate the unusual market activity surrounding the company’s shares.



SEBI Suspends Trading In Bharat Global Developers After 10,000% Stock Rally

Washington, United States
United States retail giant Walmart landed in a controversy on Tuesday (Dec 24) for selling shirts featuring images of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on its online store.
A non-profit watchdog organisation based in the US named StopAntisemtisim called out Walmart in an X post along with screenshots showing the apparel listed on the online store.
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The post read, “Walmart shoppers were horrified to find shirts glorifying Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar while online shopping. @Walmart, are you aware you're selling apparel celebrating terrorism and violence against Jews?”
“This is outrageous—remove them immediately,” it demanded.
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.
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Walmart shoppers were horrified to find shirts glorifying Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar while online shopping. <a href="https://twitter.com/Walmart?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Walmart</a>, are you aware you're selling apparel celebrating terrorism and violence against Jews?
This is a outrageous—remove them immediately. <a href="https://t.co/po8BBLLafc">pic.twitter.com/po8BBLLafc</a>
— StopAntisemitism (@StopAntisemites) <a href="https://twitter.com/StopAntisemites/status/1871386558710100468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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While one of the shirts featured Sinwar firing a gun in combat gear, the second one featured his face with his name split into two words, “sin” and “war”. 
Another shirt that featured former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was available for sale on the website. The shirt is sold by a Texas-based third-party vendor and is falsely titled “Nasrallah Safe Following Israeli Airstrikes”. 
While the Sinwar shirts have been removed from the website, Nasrallah shirts still appear to be available for purchase on the online store, according to Jerusalem Post.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-intercepts-yemen-launched-projectile-amid-rising-tensions-786326">Israel intercepts Yemen-launched projectile amid rising tensions</a>
Sinwar was eliminated this year in October by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers in the Gaza Strip. Nasrallah was killed in an airstrike by the Israel Air Force in Beirut in September.
The third-party vendor also sells a shirt with a swastika symbol on the American flag with text reading “I don't kneel” on the Walmart website.
Other leading retail stores like Amazon and eBay have also sparked criticism over the years for selling offensive products listed by third-party sellers.
(With inputs from agencies)

A non-profit watchdog organisation based in the US named StopAntisemtisim called out Walmart in an X post along with screenshots showing the apparel listed on the online store



Washington, United States United States retail giant Walmart landed in a controversy on Tuesday (Dec 24) for selling shirts featuring images of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on its online store. A non-profit watchdog organisation based in the US named StopAntisemtisim called out Walmart in an X post along with screenshots showing the apparel listed on the online store. Also read | ‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel confirms it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh The post read, “Walmart shoppers were horrified to find shirts glorifying Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar while online shopping. @Walmart, are you aware you're selling apparel celebrating terrorism and violence against Jews?” “This is outrageous—remove them immediately,” it demanded. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Walmart shoppers were horrified to find shirts glorifying Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar while online shopping. @Walmart, are you aware you're selling apparel celebrating terrorism and violence against Jews? This is a outrageous—remove them immediately. pic.twitter.com/po8BBLLafc — StopAntisemitism (@StopAntisemites) December 24, 2024 × While one of the shirts featured Sinwar firing a gun in combat gear, the second one featured his face with his name split into two words, “sin” and “war”. Another shirt that featured former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was available for sale on the website. The shirt is sold by a Texas-based third-party vendor and is falsely titled “Nasrallah Safe Following Israeli Airstrikes”. While the Sinwar shirts have been removed from the website, Nasrallah shirts still appear to be available for purchase on the online store, according to Jerusalem Post. Also read | Israel intercepts Yemen-launched projectile amid rising tensions Sinwar was eliminated this year in October by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers in the Gaza Strip. Nasrallah was killed in an airstrike by the Israel Air Force in Beirut in September. The third-party vendor also sells a shirt with a swastika symbol on the American flag with text reading “I don't kneel” on the Walmart website. Other leading retail stores like Amazon and eBay have also sparked criticism over the years for selling offensive products listed by third-party sellers. (With inputs from agencies)

Walmart in hot soup as shirts featuring Hamas and Hezbollah leaders go up for sale

Moscow, Russia
Russia on Monday (Dec 23) confirmed that several countries have agreed to join BRICS as partner states, with the official status set to take effect on January 1, 2025.
A TASS report citing Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov reported that nine countries have said yes to becoming members of the intergovernmental organisation.
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<h2>BRICS partners</h2>
At a recent summit in Kazan, a new category for BRICS partner countries was established, and invitations were sent to 13 nations. So far, Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan have confirmed their readiness to join, Ushakov told reporters.
"One of the important results of the summit [in Kazan] was the establishment of the category of BRICS partner countries and coming to terms on a list of 13 states. Invitations were sent to these states. As of this time, confirmations of readiness to become a BRICS partner country have been received from Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan."
"From January 1, 2025, they will officially acquire the status of BRICS partner states," he said.
Ushakov noted that further responses from four additional countries are expected soon. He also mentioned that Eritrea has expressed interest in cooperating with BRICS.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-us-from-december-24-29-first-high-level-visit-after-trumps-election-win-786223">Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit US from Dec 24-29 to discuss bilateral and global issues</a>
"We expect that in the near future responses will come from four more countries, to which invitations were also sent."
Partner states will be invited to participate in specific BRICS summits, foreign ministers' meetings, and other forums, including security discussions and parliamentary events, he said.
"We also believe it is right to involve partners in meetings of high representatives in charge of security issues, parliamentary forum and other events," the Kremlin aide said.
(With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said that nine countries have said yes to becoming members of the intergovernmental organisation



Moscow, Russia Russia on Monday (Dec 23) confirmed that several countries have agreed to join BRICS as partner states, with the official status set to take effect on January 1, 2025. A TASS report citing Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov reported that nine countries have said yes to becoming members of the intergovernmental organisation. Also read | Khalistani terrorists killed in UP were led by UK army officer, claims top Indian cop BRICS partners At a recent summit in Kazan, a new category for BRICS partner countries was established, and invitations were sent to 13 nations. So far, Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan have confirmed their readiness to join, Ushakov told reporters. "One of the important results of the summit [in Kazan] was the establishment of the category of BRICS partner countries and coming to terms on a list of 13 states. Invitations were sent to these states. As of this time, confirmations of readiness to become a BRICS partner country have been received from Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan." "From January 1, 2025, they will officially acquire the status of BRICS partner states," he said. Ushakov noted that further responses from four additional countries are expected soon. He also mentioned that Eritrea has expressed interest in cooperating with BRICS. Also read | Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit US from Dec 24-29 to discuss bilateral and global issues "We expect that in the near future responses will come from four more countries, to which invitations were also sent." Partner states will be invited to participate in specific BRICS summits, foreign ministers' meetings, and other forums, including security discussions and parliamentary events, he said. "We also believe it is right to involve partners in meetings of high representatives in charge of security issues, parliamentary forum and other events," the Kremlin aide said. (With inputs from agencies)

BRICS expands: Russia confirms nine nations to join as partner states from January 2025

Its the Christmas season and as the world eagerly awaits gifts and presents...



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The Senate has convened a parliamentary session to discuss the UAE's visa restrictions and the welfare of overseas Pakistanis. The session aims to address concerns related to the impact on Pakistani workers and their families abroad, with a focus on finding solutions to ease the visa challenges.

Pakistani Travellers Need Police Clearance For UAE Visa

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The Senate has convened a parliamentary session to discuss the UAE's visa restrictions and the welfare of overseas Pakistanis. The session aims to address concerns related to the impact on Pakistani workers and their families abroad, with a focus on finding solutions to ease the visa challenges.



Pakistani Travellers Need Police Verification For UAE Visa

In a groundbreaking moment for Iranian aviation, an all-female crew piloted a flight carrying 110 prominent women to Mashhad International Airport on Sunday. 

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Moscow
Russia’s top Islamic body has reversed a ruling allowing Muslim men to have multiple wives. The move came after the move by the Council of Scholars of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia triggered a backlash on social media, as officials pointed out how the ruling didn’t conform to Russian laws.
Polygamy is outlawed in Russia and goes against “our core morals and traditional values,” said Nina Ostanina, the head of the parliamentary family affairs committee.
The Islamic body earlier on Dec 17 issued a fatwa, or religious ruling, outlining conditions and circumstances under which Muslim men can have more than one wife. The document said a Muslim man could have four wives if “equal material support” is guaranteed to all, along with separate living space. One of the conditions was that the husband will have to give “an equal amount of time” to each of them.
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The main condition for allowing polygamy is a fair and equal treatment of all wives by their husband,” the document said. It acknowledged that “religious Islamic marriage is not recognized by the state and creates no legal consequences,” stressing that the fatwa “does not replace the norms of Russian marital law.”
Soon after the document became public, it was severely condemned by officials as well as Russian commoners. Russian state-backed outlet RT quoted Kirill Kabanov, a member of the presidential Human Rights Council, as accusing the Islamic body of brazenly violating Russia’s constitution.
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On Monday (Dec 23), the Islamic body was notified by the Prosecutor General’s Office that the ruling was essentially unlawful and it went against “the state family policies.” Soon after, the body said it was withdrawing its document allowing polygamy, citing backlash from the public and the official order.
“It is God’s will. The Council of Scholars sees no sense in joining a debate on the matter,” the council’s chairman, Shamil Alyautdinov, wrote on Telegram.
It is to be noted that Muslims make up for around 10 per cent of Russia’s total population, with the highest concentration in regions like Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia in the North Caucasus, and Tatarstan and Bashkortostan in western Russia.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Islamic body issued a fatwa, or religious ruling, earlier on Dec 17 outlining circumstances under which Muslim men can have more than one wife. The document said a Muslim man could have four wives if “equal material support” and separate living spaces were guaranteed to all.



Moscow Russia’s top Islamic body has reversed a ruling allowing Muslim men to have multiple wives. The move came after the move by the Council of Scholars of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia triggered a backlash on social media, as officials pointed out how the ruling didn’t conform to Russian laws. Polygamy is outlawed in Russia and goes against “our core morals and traditional values,” said Nina Ostanina, the head of the parliamentary family affairs committee. The Islamic body earlier on Dec 17 issued a fatwa, or religious ruling, outlining conditions and circumstances under which Muslim men can have more than one wife. The document said a Muslim man could have four wives if “equal material support” is guaranteed to all, along with separate living space. One of the conditions was that the husband will have to give “an equal amount of time” to each of them. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Launches Aerial Attack On Ukraine × The main condition for allowing polygamy is a fair and equal treatment of all wives by their husband,” the document said. It acknowledged that “religious Islamic marriage is not recognized by the state and creates no legal consequences,” stressing that the fatwa “does not replace the norms of Russian marital law.” Soon after the document became public, it was severely condemned by officials as well as Russian commoners. Russian state-backed outlet RT quoted Kirill Kabanov, a member of the presidential Human Rights Council, as accusing the Islamic body of brazenly violating Russia’s constitution. Also read: ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn On Monday (Dec 23), the Islamic body was notified by the Prosecutor General’s Office that the ruling was essentially unlawful and it went against “the state family policies.” Soon after, the body said it was withdrawing its document allowing polygamy, citing backlash from the public and the official order. “It is God’s will. The Council of Scholars sees no sense in joining a debate on the matter,” the council’s chairman, Shamil Alyautdinov, wrote on Telegram. It is to be noted that Muslims make up for around 10 per cent of Russia’s total population, with the highest concentration in regions like Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia in the North Caucasus, and Tatarstan and Bashkortostan in western Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s God’s will,’ Russia’s top Islamic body withdraws ruling that allowed men to have four wives

Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Tells Israeli Parliament 'Some Progress' In Truce Talks

New York, USA 
<meta charset="utf-8"/>Yemen has seen a surge in cholera, with around 250,000 suspected infections and 861 deaths reported until December 1, said the World Health Organization (WHO).
This is 35 per cent of all cholera cases globally, and 18 per cent of the loss of lives in 2024.
A sharp rise was observed in November, with cases up 37 per cent and the death rate growing by 27 per cent compared to the same time in 2023.
“Waterborne diseases like cholera and acute watery diarrhoea have added immense pressure on Yemen’s already struggling health system,” said Arturo Pesigan, WHO Representative in Yemen.
<h2>A crisis in the making</h2>
The outbreak of cholera worsened in the wake of 10 years of conflicts and major economic troubles in Yemen.
The country endured its worst cholera outbreak from 2017 to 2020, and the disease has been a serious problem since then.
WHO said the current rise in cases is triggered by issues like lack of clean water, poor sanitation, and constrained access to health facilities. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cholera-epidemic-has-killed-180-in-yemen-icrc-15610">Cholera epidemic has killed 180 in Yemen: ICRC</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Funding shortage</h2>
Between October 2024 and March 2025, there is a $20 million funding gap in addressing the issue.
As a result, 47 diarrhea treatment centres (DTCs) and 234 oral rehydration centres (ORCs) were shut from March to November.
WHO has warned that if the funds are not given quickly, another 17 DTCs and 39 ORCs will close by the end of December, leaving 84 per cent of DTCs and 62 per cent of ORCs unable to operate.
Humanitarian groups stress that Yemen could face a catastrophe as bad as the 2017-2020 cholera epidemic.
Watch | Extreme weather in Africa brings deadly Cholera outbreak
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<h2 dir="ltr">Efforts underway</h2>
WHO has collaborated with Yemeni authorities, UN agencies and humanitarian organisations to highlight the outbreak with initiatives such as:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Providing laboratory equipment to 12 central public health labs to confirm infections.
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Distribution of important medicines, medical supplies, and water and sanitation to affected areas.
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Training over 800 health workers in cholera case management.
</li>
<li aria-level="1" dir="ltr">
Deploying more than 25,000 rapid response teams to investigate cases and implement control measures.
</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr"> </h2>

Yemen is going through a larger humanitarian crisis. Over 18.2 million people, nearly half the population, need aid, with 11.2 million in dire need of help.
Food insecurity impacts 17.6 million people across the country, and almost half of children under five are suffering from moderate to severe stunting.
As the cholera outbreak gets bad and funding runs low, Yemen’s health system is on the brink of crumbling, leaving millions at risk of preventable diseases.
(With inputs from agencies)

The outbreak of cholera increased due to the 10 years of conflicts and major economic troubles



New York, USA Yemen has seen a surge in cholera, with around 250,000 suspected infections and 861 deaths reported until December 1, said the World Health Organization (WHO). This is 35 per cent of all cholera cases globally, and 18 per cent of the loss of lives in 2024. A sharp rise was observed in November, with cases up 37 per cent and the death rate growing by 27 per cent compared to the same time in 2023. “Waterborne diseases like cholera and acute watery diarrhoea have added immense pressure on Yemen’s already struggling health system,” said Arturo Pesigan, WHO Representative in Yemen. A crisis in the making The outbreak of cholera worsened in the wake of 10 years of conflicts and major economic troubles in Yemen. The country endured its worst cholera outbreak from 2017 to 2020, and the disease has been a serious problem since then. WHO said the current rise in cases is triggered by issues like lack of clean water, poor sanitation, and constrained access to health facilities. Also Read: Cholera epidemic has killed 180 in Yemen: ICRC Funding shortage Between October 2024 and March 2025, there is a $20 million funding gap in addressing the issue. As a result, 47 diarrhea treatment centres (DTCs) and 234 oral rehydration centres (ORCs) were shut from March to November. WHO has warned that if the funds are not given quickly, another 17 DTCs and 39 ORCs will close by the end of December, leaving 84 per cent of DTCs and 62 per cent of ORCs unable to operate. Humanitarian groups stress that Yemen could face a catastrophe as bad as the 2017-2020 cholera epidemic. Watch | Extreme weather in Africa brings deadly Cholera outbreak Efforts underway WHO has collaborated with Yemeni authorities, UN agencies and humanitarian organisations to highlight the outbreak with initiatives such as: Providing laboratory equipment to 12 central public health labs to confirm infections. Distribution of important medicines, medical supplies, and water and sanitation to affected areas. Training over 800 health workers in cholera case management. Deploying more than 25,000 rapid response teams to investigate cases and implement control measures. Yemen is going through a larger humanitarian crisis. Over 18.2 million people, nearly half the population, need aid, with 11.2 million in dire need of help. Food insecurity impacts 17.6 million people across the country, and almost half of children under five are suffering from moderate to severe stunting. As the cholera outbreak gets bad and funding runs low, Yemen’s health system is on the brink of crumbling, leaving millions at risk of preventable diseases. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO reports cholera surge in Yemen: 250,000 suspected infections and 861 deaths as of Dec 1

The manslaughter case against Alec Baldwin has been dismissed by a New Mexico prosecutor. This decision comes after a review of new evidence, leading to the conclusion that the actor should not face charges related to the tragic shooting incident on the set of Rust.



New Mexico Prosecutor Drops Alec Baldwin's Manslaughter Case

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost the support of Liberal allies after Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland’s exit last week, with at least 51 Ontario MPs urging him to step down.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden pardoned 37 of the 40 death sentences of inmates on federal death row, yet three remain. Know all about them.

Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel's involvement in Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s killing in Iran as he issued a threat to Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in Yemen.

Finally, A 33-year-old Guatemalan man has been charged in connection with the horrific New York subway killing in which he allegedly set afire a sleeping woman.

Click on the headlines for more

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost support among his core Liberal allies since the shocking exit of Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland last week.

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US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-behead-their-leaders-israel-admits-it-killed-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-786344">‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel admits it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</a>

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Israel for the first time confirmed Monday (Dec 23) that it was involved in the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran back in July this year. Defence Minister Israel Katz’s admission came as he issued a threat to Yemen-based Houthi rebel group, which is backed by Israel’s arch-enemy Iran.

<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>

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New York police on Monday (Dec 23) charged a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen in the horrific subway immolation murder case. The man identified as Sebastian Zapeta had allegedly set a sleeping woman on fire over the weekend. He has been charged with murder and arson, said the police.

Watch |&nbsp;USA News: House Ethics Committee Accuses Gaetz Of Statutory Rape

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&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost the support of Liberal allies after Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland’s exit last week, with at least 51 Ontario MPs urging him to step down.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost the support of Liberal allies after Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland’s exit last week, with at least 51 Ontario MPs urging him to step down. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden pardoned 37 of the 40 death sentences of inmates on federal death row, yet three remain. Know all about them. Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel's involvement in Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s killing in Iran as he issued a threat to Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in Yemen. Finally, A 33-year-old Guatemalan man has been charged in connection with the horrific New York subway killing in which he allegedly set afire a sleeping woman. Click on the headlines for more Trudeau’s time’s up? Dozens of Canadian Liberal MPs revolt after Freeland’s exit Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost support among his core Liberal allies since the shocking exit of Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland last week. Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. ‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel admits it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh Israel for the first time confirmed Monday (Dec 23) that it was involved in the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran back in July this year. Defence Minister Israel Katz’s admission came as he issued a threat to Yemen-based Houthi rebel group, which is backed by Israel’s arch-enemy Iran. New York subway horror: Illegal immigrant Sebastian Zapeta charged for setting sleeping woman on fire New York police on Monday (Dec 23) charged a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen in the horrific subway immolation murder case. The man identified as Sebastian Zapeta had allegedly set a sleeping woman on fire over the weekend. He has been charged with murder and arson, said the police. Watch | USA News: House Ethics Committee Accuses Gaetz Of Statutory Rape ×

Morning news brief: Liberal MPs rally against Trudeau; Joe Biden's death row pardon, and more

New Delhi, India
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost the support of Liberal allies after Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland’s exit last week, with at least 51 Ontario MPs urging him to step down.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden pardoned 37 of the 40 death sentences of inmates on federal death row, yet three remain. Know all about them.
Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel's involvement in Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s killing in Iran as he issued a threat to Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in Yemen.
Finally, A 33-year-old Guatemalan man has been charged in connection with the horrific New York subway killing in which he allegedly set afire a sleeping woman.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeaus-times-up-dozens-of-canadian-liberal-mps-revolt-after-freelands-exit-786333">Trudeau’s time’s up? Dozens of Canadian Liberal MPs revolt after Freeland’s exit</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2023/10/19/387449-succession-2023-10-11t182649827.png"/>
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost support among his core Liberal allies since the shocking exit of Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland last week.
<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>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472798-new-wion-2024-12-24t091155483.jpg"/>
US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-behead-their-leaders-israel-admits-it-killed-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-786344">‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel admits it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2023/11/01/390552-untitled-design-21.png"/>
Israel for the first time confirmed Monday (Dec 23) that it was involved in the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran back in July this year. Defence Minister Israel Katz’s admission came as he issued a threat to Yemen-based Houthi rebel group, which is backed by Israel’s arch-enemy Iran.
<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>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/472784-new-wion-2024-12-24t072508473.jpg"/>
New York police on Monday (Dec 23) charged a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen in the horrific subway immolation murder case. The man identified as Sebastian Zapeta had allegedly set a sleeping woman on fire over the weekend. He has been charged with murder and arson, said the police.
Watch | USA News: House Ethics Committee Accuses Gaetz Of Statutory Rape
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Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief



New Delhi, India Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost the support of Liberal allies after Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland’s exit last week, with at least 51 Ontario MPs urging him to step down. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden pardoned 37 of the 40 death sentences of inmates on federal death row, yet three remain. Know all about them. Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel's involvement in Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s killing in Iran as he issued a threat to Iran-backed Houthi rebel group in Yemen. Finally, A 33-year-old Guatemalan man has been charged in connection with the horrific New York subway killing in which he allegedly set afire a sleeping woman. Click on the headlines for more Trudeau’s time’s up? Dozens of Canadian Liberal MPs revolt after Freeland’s exit Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly lost support among his core Liberal allies since the shocking exit of Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland last week. Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. ‘Will behead their leaders…,’ Israel admits it killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh Israel for the first time confirmed Monday (Dec 23) that it was involved in the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran back in July this year. Defence Minister Israel Katz’s admission came as he issued a threat to Yemen-based Houthi rebel group, which is backed by Israel’s arch-enemy Iran. New York subway horror: Illegal immigrant Sebastian Zapeta charged for setting sleeping woman on fire New York police on Monday (Dec 23) charged a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen in the horrific subway immolation murder case. The man identified as Sebastian Zapeta had allegedly set a sleeping woman on fire over the weekend. He has been charged with murder and arson, said the police. Watch | USA News: House Ethics Committee Accuses Gaetz Of Statutory Rape ×

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a new government on Monday (December 23) following the collapse of the previous Cabinet.

The newly appointed Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has formed the government, which includes a mix of members from the previous conservative-led team and new figures from centrist and left-leaning backgrounds.

Eric Lombard, a banker, has been named as the new finance minister. Bruno Retailleau will continue in his role as interior minister, while Sébastien Lecornu remains in charge of defence. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also retains his position.

The reshuffle introduces two former prime ministers into the Cabinet. Manuel Valls has been appointed minister for overseas affairs, and Élisabeth Borne has taken over the education portfolio. Additionally, former interior minister Gérald Darmanin has been named justice minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a new government on Monday (December 23) following the collapse of the previous Cabinet. The newly appointed Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has formed the government, which includes a mix of members from the previous conservative-led team and new figures from centrist and left-leaning backgrounds.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a new government on Monday (December 23) following the collapse of the previous Cabinet. The newly appointed Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has formed the government, which includes a mix of members from the previous conservative-led team and new figures from centrist and left-leaning backgrounds. Eric Lombard, a banker, has been named as the new finance minister. Bruno Retailleau will continue in his role as interior minister, while Sébastien Lecornu remains in charge of defence. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also retains his position. The reshuffle introduces two former prime ministers into the Cabinet. Manuel Valls has been appointed minister for overseas affairs, and Élisabeth Borne has taken over the education portfolio. Additionally, former interior minister Gérald Darmanin has been named justice minister. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron names new French government: Former PMs return; foreign, defence ministers unchanged

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 |&nbsp;<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>

Gratitude for care and support &nbsp;

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 |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nyc-subway-fire-accused-illegal-guatemalan-immigrant-was-deported-in-2018-but-he-snuck-back-786572">NYC subway fire: Accused illegal Guatemalan immigrant was deported in 2018, but he snuck back</a>

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)&nbsp;

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.

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

Vatican Corridor, also known as the Passetto del Borgo, would be "virtually completely open to visitors" after the six-month restoration. Watch this report for more details!

Vatican's Ancient Secret Corridor Now Open To Public

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.&nbsp;

Bolton, who was also a US ambassador to the United Nations, slammed Trump for his lack of knowledge, interest in facts, or coherent strategy.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

He also dismissed Trump's claims&nbsp;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.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/makes-no-sense-trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-death-sentence-commutations-786553">Also read:&nbsp;'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations</a>

“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.&nbsp;

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 |&nbsp;Trump Is Teasing US Expansion Into Panama, Greenland &amp; Canada

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On Trump's relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Bolton said that he believed that he had a friendship with Putin.&nbsp;

“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.&nbsp;

“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.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

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

Santa&nbsp;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&nbsp;Santa&nbsp;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&nbsp;Santa&nbsp;this year."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-delivers-on-threat-to-veto-bill-to-expand-us-judiciary-786570">Biden delivers on threat to veto bill to expand US judiciary</a>

NORAD's&nbsp;Santa&nbsp;tracker dates back to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement printed a phone number to connect children with&nbsp;Santa&nbsp;-- 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&nbsp;Santa&nbsp;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&nbsp;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&nbsp;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&nbsp;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 |&nbsp;<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>

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.

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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.

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

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