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<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is the highest civilian honour given by Kuwait to Heads of State, foreign monarchs, and royal family members as a symbol of friendship and diplomatic ties. It was founded on July 16, 1974, to commemorate Mubarak Al-Sabah, the sheikh of Kuwait from 1896 to 1915, who played a key role in securing Kuwait’s independence from the Ottoman Empire.</p></p>
<h2><strong>International recognition</strong></h2>
<p>The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer has been awarded to several international leaders over the years, including US Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush, as well as Prince Charles of the United Kingdom. The award is a sign of Kuwait's respect and strong diplomatic relations with these countries.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href=" "><strong>Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer</strong></a></p>
<h2><strong>PM Modi receives the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer</strong></h2>
<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer on Sunday (Dec 22), marking his 20th international honour. This recognition highlights his growing global influence and the strong ties between India and Kuwait. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, called the award “a testament to the long-standing India-Kuwait friendship.”</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A testament to the long standing ??-?? friendship.</p>
<p>HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait conferred PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> with The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, highest national award of Kuwait, today at the Bayan Palace.</p>
<p>PM dedicated this honour to… <a href="https://t.co/WGNNCwnPjt">pic.twitter.com/WGNNCwnPjt</a></p>
<p>— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1870786480248881416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM Modi's message of gratitude</strong></h2>
<p>Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation for the award, dedicating it to the relationship between India and Kuwait, the Indian community in Kuwait, and the people of India. He also reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening the bond between the two countries.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah.</p>
<p>We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, Infrastructure and security.</p>
<p>In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our… <a href="https://t.co/yjBXjZk7gd">pic.twitter.com/yjBXjZk7gd</a></p>
<p>— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870779268172783971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Strengthening India-Kuwait ties</strong></h2>
<p>PM Modi met with the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. They discussed key areas of cooperation, including pharmaceuticals, IT, fintech, infrastructure, and security. Modi emphasised the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and expressed optimism about the future of their relationship.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/american-delta-airlines-passenger-shares-ruff-story-after-getting-bumped-for-a-dog-heres-what-happened-785968">American Delta Airlines passenger shares 'ruff' story after getting bumped for a dog. Here's what happened</a></p>
<h2><strong>A bright future for India-Kuwait relations</strong></h2>
<p>PM Modi’s visit and the awarding of the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer highlight the growing friendship and strategic partnership between India and Kuwait. </p>
<p dir="ltr">(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>) </p>


The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer award was founded on July 16, 1974, to commemorate Mubarak Al-Sabah, the sheikh of Kuwait from 1896 to 1915.



New Delhi, India The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is the highest civilian honour given by Kuwait to Heads of State, foreign monarchs, and royal family members as a symbol of friendship and diplomatic ties. It was founded on July 16, 1974, to commemorate Mubarak Al-Sabah, the sheikh of Kuwait from 1896 to 1915, who played a key role in securing Kuwait’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. International recognition The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer has been awarded to several international leaders over the years, including US Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush, as well as Prince Charles of the United Kingdom. The award is a sign of Kuwait's respect and strong diplomatic relations with these countries. Also read | Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer PM Modi receives the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer on Sunday (Dec 22), marking his 20th international honour. This recognition highlights his growing global influence and the strong ties between India and Kuwait. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, called the award “a testament to the long-standing India-Kuwait friendship.” A testament to the long standing ??-?? friendship. HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait conferred PM @narendramodi with The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, highest national award of Kuwait, today at the Bayan Palace. PM dedicated this honour to… pic.twitter.com/WGNNCwnPjt — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 22, 2024 × PM Modi's message of gratitude Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation for the award, dedicating it to the relationship between India and Kuwait, the Indian community in Kuwait, and the people of India. He also reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening the bond between the two countries. Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, Infrastructure and security. In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our… pic.twitter.com/yjBXjZk7gd — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 22, 2024 × Strengthening India-Kuwait ties PM Modi met with the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. They discussed key areas of cooperation, including pharmaceuticals, IT, fintech, infrastructure, and security. Modi emphasised the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and expressed optimism about the future of their relationship. Also read | American Delta Airlines passenger shares 'ruff' story after getting bumped for a dog. Here's what happened A bright future for India-Kuwait relations PM Modi’s visit and the awarding of the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer highlight the growing friendship and strategic partnership between India and Kuwait. (With inputs from agencies)

What is the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer award given to PM Modi ?

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<p><span class="region">Ankara, Turkey</span>
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<p>Four people lost their lives in southwest Turkey on Sunday (December 22), when an ambulance helicopter crashed after colliding with a hospital building during take-off.</p>
<p>The helicopter was departing from the roof of the Mugla Training and Research Hospital and was carrying two pilots, a doctor, and a medical staff member, according to a statement from the health ministry.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tensions-in-red-sea-rise-as-two-us-navy-pilots-shot-down-in-friendly-fire-amid-houthi-rebel-response-785946" target="_blank">Two US Navy pilots shot down in 'friendly fire' incident over Red Sea</a></strong></p>
<p>"The helicopter fell to the ground after having struck the fourth storey of a hospital during take-off," Mugla Governor Idris Akbiyik said. The crash resulted in the deaths of all four on board—the two pilots, the doctor, and the medical worker.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="ro">Additional footage from scene of helicopter crash into hospital in Mugla, Türkiye <a href="https://t.co/ZJJErGHqPl">https://t.co/ZJJErGHqPl</a> <a href="https://t.co/DDi92OaDdV">pic.twitter.com/DDi92OaDdV</a></p>
<p>— Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) <a href="https://twitter.com/turkiyetodaycom/status/1870743299163652601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>"There was intense fog," Akbiyik added, saying that investigations into the cause of the accident are underway.</p>
<p>As per an AFP report, helicopter was en route to Antalya when it took off under poor visibility conditions. Video posted by NTV showed the aircraft drifting in the fog for several minutes after take-off before crashing into an empty field adjacent to the hospital it hit.</p>
<p>Debris from the crash was seen scattered around the site, with footage showing emergency teams and ambulances responding to the scene.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Helicopter crashes into Mugla Training &amp; Research Hospital in Türkiye, landing in empty area. Emergency teams on-site managing situation <a href="https://t.co/SGbAFXY8ea">pic.twitter.com/SGbAFXY8ea</a></p>
<p>— Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) <a href="https://twitter.com/turkiyetodaycom/status/1870738653896675494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch: Germany: 7 Indians Injured In Christmas Market Attack As Death Toll Rises To 5</strong></p>
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<p>This comes less than two weeks after another helicopter accident in Turkey’s Isparta province, where six soldiers died when two military helicopters collided during a training exercise.</p>
<p>Five soldiers were killed on the spot, while one died due to injuries in hospital. The defence ministry has yet to disclose the cause of that incident.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


"The helicopter fell to the ground after having struck the fourth storey of a hospital during take-off," Mugla Governor Idris Akbiyik said. The crash resulted in the deaths of all four on board—the two pilots, the doctor, and the medical worker.



Ankara, Turkey Four people lost their lives in southwest Turkey on Sunday (December 22), when an ambulance helicopter crashed after colliding with a hospital building during take-off. The helicopter was departing from the roof of the Mugla Training and Research Hospital and was carrying two pilots, a doctor, and a medical staff member, according to a statement from the health ministry. Also read: Two US Navy pilots shot down in 'friendly fire' incident over Red Sea "The helicopter fell to the ground after having struck the fourth storey of a hospital during take-off," Mugla Governor Idris Akbiyik said. The crash resulted in the deaths of all four on board—the two pilots, the doctor, and the medical worker. Additional footage from scene of helicopter crash into hospital in Mugla, Türkiye https://t.co/ZJJErGHqPl pic.twitter.com/DDi92OaDdV — Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) December 22, 2024 × "There was intense fog," Akbiyik added, saying that investigations into the cause of the accident are underway. As per an AFP report, helicopter was en route to Antalya when it took off under poor visibility conditions. Video posted by NTV showed the aircraft drifting in the fog for several minutes after take-off before crashing into an empty field adjacent to the hospital it hit. Debris from the crash was seen scattered around the site, with footage showing emergency teams and ambulances responding to the scene. Helicopter crashes into Mugla Training & Research Hospital in Türkiye, landing in empty area. Emergency teams on-site managing situation pic.twitter.com/SGbAFXY8ea — Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) December 22, 2024 × Watch: Germany: 7 Indians Injured In Christmas Market Attack As Death Toll Rises To 5 This comes less than two weeks after another helicopter accident in Turkey’s Isparta province, where six soldiers died when two military helicopters collided during a training exercise. Five soldiers were killed on the spot, while one died due to injuries in hospital. The defence ministry has yet to disclose the cause of that incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Ambulance helicopter slams into hospital in Turkey, killing all 4 onboard

Israel Intensifies Actions On Gaza, Syria. A fresh Israeli strike hit Gaza as tensions remain high. Hamas has stated that the possibility of reaching a deal is now closer than ever.



Israel Intensifies Actions On Gaza, Syria

As temperatures fall below freezing, the cold wave continues to spread across the Kashmir Valley. Temperatures hit -8.5 degrees Celsius in Srinagar. Watch the report for more details! 



Cold Wave Sweeps Kashmir Valley, Temperatures Drop to -8.5°C in Srinagar

Spain's annual Christmas lottery draw, a 200-year-old tradition, has kicked off, captivating the nation with its festive excitement. The event is one of the world’s largest and most anticipated lotteries, offering life-changing prizes.



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<p><span class="region">Tehran, Iran</span>
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<p>Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic.</p>
<p>Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-condemns-gaza-bombings-as-cruelty-israel-hits-back-785888" target="_blank">Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back</a></strong></p>
<p>“They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said.</p>
<p>He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.”</p>
<p>Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.”</p>
<p>Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?”</p>
<p>He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said.</p>
<p>Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts.</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>


“They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said.



Tehran, Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic. Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces. Also read: Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back “They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said. He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.” Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.” Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?” He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said. Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts. 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)

Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently

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<p><span class="region">London, UK </span>
<p><meta charset="utf-8"/>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been accused by Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel of prioritising economic relations with China over the country’s security. She firmly believes the government is “desperate for foreign money” as perturbation grows about China’s growing influence. </p></p>
<p dir="ltr">Patel’s allegation comes when China’s actions in the UK have raised national security concerns. She pointed to the ongoing threats, which include cyberattacks, misinformation campaigns, and property theft. In particular, she expressed alarm over Chinese espionage activities within UK institutions.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-pm-keir-starmer-eyes-revival-of-free-trade-talks-with-india-777263">UK PM Keir Starmer eyes revival of free trade talks with India</a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>China’s growing threat to the UK </strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">In an interview with The Sunday Times, Patel argued that China should be identified as a threat to the UK, saying, "We’re dealing with an extraordinary regime that has had incursions in our country through national security, intellectual property, right down to cyber activity and misinformation."</p>
<p dir="ltr">She also called out the government to assign China to the highest tier of the foreign influence registration scheme, which would highlight nations posing risks to UK interests. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch | UK: Keir Starmer Is The 'Most Unpopular' New PM</strong></p>
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<h2 dir="ltr">Government’s ‘desperate’ approach</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Patel accused Starmer's government of placing economic considerations ahead of national security. With Chancellor Rachel Reeves planning a trip to China in January to restart economic discussions, Patel described the government's approach as "desperate," citing the UK's current economic challenges.</p>
<p dir="ltr">She said, "This, to me, smacks of a desperate government having done terrible things to our economy, with economic growth now going down, being desperate for foreign money."</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>China’s influence in UK politics</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Patel’s remarks come amid intense concerns over China’s political leverage in the UK. MI5 forewarned MPs about Chinese hindrance, specifically about lawyer Christian Lee, who was alleged to be working for the Chinese government. </p>
<p dir="ltr">These developments have raised further questions about the extent of Beijing’s influence within the UK political and economic spheres.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Patel’s accusations highlight a growing divide over how to handle China’s rising influence. Although the government attempts to make the economic relations with Beijing stronger, the shadow Foreign Secretary urges the need to scrutinise the UK’s national security and interests. As tension with China amplifies the difficulty the UK faces in balancing security and diplomacy. </p>
<p>(<em>With inputs taken from agencies</em>) </p>


In an interview with The Sunday Times, Priti Patel argued that China should be identified as a threat to the UK, saying, "We’re dealing with an extraordinary regime that has had incursions in our country through national security, intellectual property, right down to cyber activity and misinformation."



London, UK UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been accused by Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel of prioritising economic relations with China over the country’s security. She firmly believes the government is “desperate for foreign money” as perturbation grows about China’s growing influence. Patel’s allegation comes when China’s actions in the UK have raised national security concerns. She pointed to the ongoing threats, which include cyberattacks, misinformation campaigns, and property theft. In particular, she expressed alarm over Chinese espionage activities within UK institutions. Also Read: UK PM Keir Starmer eyes revival of free trade talks with India China’s growing threat to the UK In an interview with The Sunday Times, Patel argued that China should be identified as a threat to the UK, saying, "We’re dealing with an extraordinary regime that has had incursions in our country through national security, intellectual property, right down to cyber activity and misinformation." She also called out the government to assign China to the highest tier of the foreign influence registration scheme, which would highlight nations posing risks to UK interests. Watch | UK: Keir Starmer Is The 'Most Unpopular' New PM Government’s ‘desperate’ approach Patel accused Starmer's government of placing economic considerations ahead of national security. With Chancellor Rachel Reeves planning a trip to China in January to restart economic discussions, Patel described the government's approach as "desperate," citing the UK's current economic challenges. She said, "This, to me, smacks of a desperate government having done terrible things to our economy, with economic growth now going down, being desperate for foreign money." China’s influence in UK politics Patel’s remarks come amid intense concerns over China’s political leverage in the UK. MI5 forewarned MPs about Chinese hindrance, specifically about lawyer Christian Lee, who was alleged to be working for the Chinese government. These developments have raised further questions about the extent of Beijing’s influence within the UK political and economic spheres. Patel’s accusations highlight a growing divide over how to handle China’s rising influence. Although the government attempts to make the economic relations with Beijing stronger, the shadow Foreign Secretary urges the need to scrutinise the UK’s national security and interests. As tension with China amplifies the difficulty the UK faces in balancing security and diplomacy. (With inputs taken from agencies)

Priti Patel accuses PM Keir Starmer of prioritising economic ties with China over UK security

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A US Navy F-18 jet was accidentally shot down in a friendly fire incident during a training exercise. The incident is under investigation to determine the cause and ensure accountability.



US Navy F-18 Jet Downed in Friendly Fire, USS Gettysburg Mistakenly Targets US Jets

During his visit to Kuwait, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and expressed gratitude to the Indian diaspora for their contributions. Modi emphasized the strong ties between India and Kuwait, reaffirming cooperation in various sectors.



PM Modi's Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Meets Emir Of Kuwait, Thanks Indian Diaspora

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Suchir Balaji, the former OpenAI engineer and whistle-blower who was found dead recently, believed the company's practices violated copyright laws, revealed his parents. Balaji was one of the people behind OpenAI's ChatGPT and even helped train the company's artificial intelligence systems.</p></p>
<p>According to an AP report, the engineer was being considered as a witness against OpenAI.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-openai-whistleblower-found-dead-had-accused-firm-of-copyright-violation-783884">Who was Suchir Balaji, whistleblower found dead after accusing OpenAI of copyright violation?</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Suchir Balaji in court</strong></h2>
<p>OpenAI founder John Schulman in a social media post memorialising Balaji described the Indian-origin engineer as someone whose "contributions to this project were essential," and said that ChatGPT "wouldn't have succeeded without him". So why did he resign?</p>
<p>As per reports, Balaji worked at OpenAI for nearly four years and was a well-regarded member of the team. He played an important role in the development of some of the company's products. </p>
<p>Later, he shifted to organising huge datasets of online writing to train OpenAI's fourth-generation language model, the GPT-4. While engaged in this work, he began to question the technology, especially after authors, newspapers and content creators started suing the company for copyright infringement.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-taps-the-apprentice-producer-mark-burnett-as-us-special-envoy-to-the-uk-785890">Trump taps 'The Apprentice' producer Mark Burnett as US special envoy to the UK</a></strong></p>
<p>The engineer first raised the concern with the New York Times and reported the publication in October. Later, he told the Associated Press that he would "try to testify" in copyright infringement cases against the company.</p>
<p>"It doesn't feel right to be training on people's data and then competing with them in the marketplace," Suchir Balaji told AP in late October. </p>
<p>"I don't think you should be able to do that. I don't think you are able to do that legally," he stressed.</p>
<p>He also published a personal blog post expressing his opinions on the topic. However, he had not been deposed, and it is unclear to what extent his revelations will be admitted as evidence in any legal cases after his death. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


OpenAI founder John Schulman in a social media post memorialising Balaji described the Indian-origin engineer as someone whose "contributions to this project were essential," and said that ChatGPT "wouldn't have succeeded without him"



New Delhi, India Suchir Balaji, the former OpenAI engineer and whistle-blower who was found dead recently, believed the company's practices violated copyright laws, revealed his parents. Balaji was one of the people behind OpenAI's ChatGPT and even helped train the company's artificial intelligence systems. According to an AP report, the engineer was being considered as a witness against OpenAI. Also read | Who was Suchir Balaji, whistleblower found dead after accusing OpenAI of copyright violation? Suchir Balaji in court OpenAI founder John Schulman in a social media post memorialising Balaji described the Indian-origin engineer as someone whose "contributions to this project were essential," and said that ChatGPT "wouldn't have succeeded without him". So why did he resign? As per reports, Balaji worked at OpenAI for nearly four years and was a well-regarded member of the team. He played an important role in the development of some of the company's products. Later, he shifted to organising huge datasets of online writing to train OpenAI's fourth-generation language model, the GPT-4. While engaged in this work, he began to question the technology, especially after authors, newspapers and content creators started suing the company for copyright infringement. Also read | Trump taps 'The Apprentice' producer Mark Burnett as US special envoy to the UK The engineer first raised the concern with the New York Times and reported the publication in October. Later, he told the Associated Press that he would "try to testify" in copyright infringement cases against the company. "It doesn't feel right to be training on people's data and then competing with them in the marketplace," Suchir Balaji told AP in late October. "I don't think you should be able to do that. I don't think you are able to do that legally," he stressed. He also published a personal blog post expressing his opinions on the topic. However, he had not been deposed, and it is unclear to what extent his revelations will be admitted as evidence in any legal cases after his death. (With inputs from agencies)

Suchir Balaji’s parents reveal whistleblower's copyright concerns against OpenAI

<p><span class="region">Washington, USA </span>
<p><meta charset="utf-8"/>Two US Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday (Dec 22) in a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea, according to the US military. Both the pilots ejected and survived, with one sustaining minor injuries. In this apparent incident, US forces targeted Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have been the biggest danger to American troops in the region for over a year.</p></p>
<p>The US Central Command issued a statement confirming a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea.</p>
<p>"The guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18, which was flying off the USS Harry S Truman," it said.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Accidental fire </strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“It’s unclear how such an error occurred,” the U.S. military’s Central Command stated. Generally in a strike group, vessels and aircraft communicate via radar and radio to refrain from mistakes like these.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-indian-navys-fighter-jet-mig-29k-crashes-in-goa-due-to-an-unknown-technical-malfunction-524742">Indian Navy's fighter jet MiG 29K crashes in Goa due to an unknown 'technical malfunction' </a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Red Sea tensions reach breaking point.</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Red Sea has become a hive of violence escalation, with the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels baiting the merchant and military vessels. The US forces were responding to missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthis before the shootdown happened.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The US airstrikes hit Houthi sites in Yemen on Saturday night, including a missile storage facility and a command and control centre.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Later, the Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for bringing down the US jet.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Houthi attacks have sunk two ships, killed four sailors, and damaged others.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: 18 killed in Kathmandu's plane crash, pilot survives</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/2024/07/24/2407_nepal_1pm_pkwo-1721811911-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2407_nepal_1pm_pkwo_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=446&tags=Nepal,Kathmandu,Plane crash,saurya airlines" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Increasing Houthi aggression</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on ships, stating that they target vessels linked to Israel, the US, and the UK. Although many of these ships have no direct ties to the conflict.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Despite US and European military patrols in the Red Sea, the region remains erratic.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The incident highlights the risk factor of operating in such tense conditions. Central Command noted that Houthi missile and drone fire often leaves sailors with only seconds to react, leading to risks of errors like this.</p>
<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>) </p>


The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down.



Washington, USA Two US Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday (Dec 22) in a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea, according to the US military. Both the pilots ejected and survived, with one sustaining minor injuries. In this apparent incident, US forces targeted Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have been the biggest danger to American troops in the region for over a year. The US Central Command issued a statement confirming a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea. "The guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18, which was flying off the USS Harry S Truman," it said. Accidental fire The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down. “It’s unclear how such an error occurred,” the U.S. military’s Central Command stated. Generally in a strike group, vessels and aircraft communicate via radar and radio to refrain from mistakes like these. Also Read: Indian Navy's fighter jet MiG 29K crashes in Goa due to an unknown 'technical malfunction' Red Sea tensions reach breaking point. The Red Sea has become a hive of violence escalation, with the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels baiting the merchant and military vessels. The US forces were responding to missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthis before the shootdown happened. The US airstrikes hit Houthi sites in Yemen on Saturday night, including a missile storage facility and a command and control centre. Later, the Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for bringing down the US jet. The Houthi attacks have sunk two ships, killed four sailors, and damaged others. Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: 18 killed in Kathmandu's plane crash, pilot survives Increasing Houthi aggression Since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on ships, stating that they target vessels linked to Israel, the US, and the UK. Although many of these ships have no direct ties to the conflict. Despite US and European military patrols in the Red Sea, the region remains erratic. The incident highlights the risk factor of operating in such tense conditions. Central Command noted that Houthi missile and drone fire often leaves sailors with only seconds to react, leading to risks of errors like this. (With inputs from agencies)

Two US Navy pilots shot down in 'friendly fire' incident over Red Sea

<p><span class="region">Magdeburg, Germany</span>
<p>In Germany, a deadly car attack on a Christmas market on Friday (Dec 20) killed at least five, including a toddler and injured more than 200. The vehicle barrelled through revellers at high speed in the state of Saxony-Anhalt. German police have arrested a Saudi man for the attack.</p></p>
<p>The attacker, identified by German media by a partial name Taleb A., is a 50-year-old doctor of psychiatry from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006. </p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-stopgap-funding-bill-minus-trumps-debt-ceiling-president-elect-says-let-shutdown-begin-now-785691">US House passes stopgap funding bill minus Trump's debt ceiling; President-elect says let shutdown 'begin now'</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>
<p>According to reports, just after 7:00 pm local time (1800 GMT), a black BMW barrelled through revellers at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, around 150 kilometres (93 miles) west of Berlin.</p>
<p>Police said the vehicle drove 400 metres or more through the Christmas market, leaving behind a trail of injured people, wreckage and shattered glass in the city's main square.</p>
<p>Regional premier Reiner Haseloff spoke to the press and called the tragic attack "a catastrophe for the city of Magdeburg, for the state, and for Germany in general."</p>
<p>"We have arrested the perpetrator, a man from Saudi Arabia, a doctor who has been in Germany since 2006," he said, adding that authorities do not believe there is any further danger.</p>
<p>"From what we currently know, he was a lone attacker, so we don't think there is any further danger."</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-slammed-over-racist-remarks-which-his-office-denies-785669">Macron slammed over 'racist' remarks which his office denies</a></strong></p>
<p>Video footage later showed the police arresting the driver of the heavily damaged black car. </p>
<p>Police, with handguns trained at the bearded man with glasses, can be heard shouting "lie down, hands on your back, don't move!" as the driver lies down on the ground next to the car.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The attacker is a 50-year-old medical doctor from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006



Magdeburg, Germany In Germany, a deadly car attack on a Christmas market on Friday (Dec 20) killed at least five, including a toddler and injured more than 200. The vehicle barrelled through revellers at high speed in the state of Saxony-Anhalt. German police have arrested a Saudi man for the attack. The attacker, identified by German media by a partial name Taleb A., is a 50-year-old doctor of psychiatry from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006. Also read | US House passes stopgap funding bill minus Trump's debt ceiling; President-elect says let shutdown 'begin now' What happened? According to reports, just after 7:00 pm local time (1800 GMT), a black BMW barrelled through revellers at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, around 150 kilometres (93 miles) west of Berlin. Police said the vehicle drove 400 metres or more through the Christmas market, leaving behind a trail of injured people, wreckage and shattered glass in the city's main square. Regional premier Reiner Haseloff spoke to the press and called the tragic attack "a catastrophe for the city of Magdeburg, for the state, and for Germany in general." "We have arrested the perpetrator, a man from Saudi Arabia, a doctor who has been in Germany since 2006," he said, adding that authorities do not believe there is any further danger. "From what we currently know, he was a lone attacker, so we don't think there is any further danger." Also read | Macron slammed over 'racist' remarks which his office denies Video footage later showed the police arresting the driver of the heavily damaged black car. Police, with handguns trained at the bearded man with glasses, can be heard shouting "lie down, hands on your back, don't move!" as the driver lies down on the ground next to the car. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany Christmas market car attack: Five killed, 200 injured in Magdeburg; police arrest Saudi man

Murhaf Abu Qasra, a key leader in the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, has been named Syria's interim defense minister.

Syria: Murhaf Abu Qasra Appointed Syria's Interim Defense Minister