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New York, United States
Stephen King, the popular horror writer behind bestsellers like 'IT,' 'The Shining,' and 'Pet Sematary,' on Saturday (Dec 21), slammed Elon Musk, and issued a stark warning over his influence over US president-elect Donald Trump.
Taking to Threads, Meta's alternative to X, King said that even though the Tesla CEO isn't the President-elect, he was "running the show".
<h2>Stephen King's warning</h2>
As the US prepares for Trump's second presidency, with his inauguration slated for 20 January, the acclaimed author on Threads said, "You can't call Elon Musk the President-elect, because he wasn't elected. In fact, having been born in Pretoria, he is ineligible to become president. Nonetheless, he is running the show. You know that, but it bears repeating."
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-tragedy-to-triumph-five-personalities-who-defined-2024-785783">From tragedy to triumph: Five personalities who defined 2024</a>
Stephen King is not alone in his concern over Musk's growing influence over Trump. Unlike his first term, Trump now appears closely aligned with Musk, who has increasingly become a controversial and divisive figure in US politics.  
The alliance between Trump and Musk has stirred widespread debate, particularly after some Republicans suggested Musk as a potential Speaker of the House during ongoing budget negotiations to prevent a government shutdown.  
<h2>Fans react to King's post with dismay</h2>
King's post triggered an outpouring of reactions, with many readers expressing alarm at the scenario he painted. Some likened the current political climate to the horror found in King's novels, commenting that the reality was "scarier".  
One fan commented, "This real life is eminently scarier than any of the books of yours that I’ve read. I hate it. Can I just try to first fight Pennywise or Cujo? You could write a book about Elon called maximum over-fried."  
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>
Others lamented the situation's global implications. A South African reader remarked, "Scary s*** this. And as a South African, I'm a tad embarrassed." 
Another user commented, "He is President-select. Selected by Trump to buy the presidency."
Yet another posted AI images portraying Trump as a puppet whose strings Musk controls. 
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<h2>King's history of Musk criticism</h2>
This is not the first time the horror genre author has criticised Musk. In the lead-up to November's election, Musk shared a video alleging Vice President Kamala Harris supported "mandatory gun confiscation," alleging that "She wants to break the Constitution". King swiftly dismissed the claim, calling it "ridiculous." He later urged his followers to vote for Harris: "IF YOU LOVE DEMOCRACY, PLEASE VOTE FOR KAMALA HARRIS".
Earlier, King addressed rumours that Musk had banned him from posting on X (formerly Twitter). Speculation suggested King had referred to Musk as Trump's "first lady," angering the Tesla CEO and leading to a ban. King, however, clarified the rumour on Threads, stating, "I didn't [say it], but only because I didn't think of it."
(With inputs from agencies)

As the US prepares for Trump's second presidency, with his inauguration slated for 20 January, the acclaimed author on Threads said, "You can't call Elon Musk the President-elect, because he wasn't elected. In fact, having been born in Pretoria, he is ineligible to become president. Nonetheless, he is running the show. You know that, but it bears repeating"



New York, United States Stephen King, the popular horror writer behind bestsellers like 'IT,' 'The Shining,' and 'Pet Sematary,' on Saturday (Dec 21), slammed Elon Musk, and issued a stark warning over his influence over US president-elect Donald Trump. Taking to Threads, Meta's alternative to X, King said that even though the Tesla CEO isn't the President-elect, he was "running the show". Stephen King's warning As the US prepares for Trump's second presidency, with his inauguration slated for 20 January, the acclaimed author on Threads said, "You can't call Elon Musk the President-elect, because he wasn't elected. In fact, having been born in Pretoria, he is ineligible to become president. Nonetheless, he is running the show. You know that, but it bears repeating." View on Threads × Also read | From tragedy to triumph: Five personalities who defined 2024 Stephen King is not alone in his concern over Musk's growing influence over Trump. Unlike his first term, Trump now appears closely aligned with Musk, who has increasingly become a controversial and divisive figure in US politics. The alliance between Trump and Musk has stirred widespread debate, particularly after some Republicans suggested Musk as a potential Speaker of the House during ongoing budget negotiations to prevent a government shutdown. Fans react to King's post with dismay King's post triggered an outpouring of reactions, with many readers expressing alarm at the scenario he painted. Some likened the current political climate to the horror found in King's novels, commenting that the reality was "scarier". One fan commented, "This real life is eminently scarier than any of the books of yours that I’ve read. I hate it. Can I just try to first fight Pennywise or Cujo? You could write a book about Elon called maximum over-fried." Also read | Trump taps 'The Apprentice' producer Mark Burnett as US special envoy to the UK Others lamented the situation's global implications. A South African reader remarked, "Scary s*** this. And as a South African, I'm a tad embarrassed." Another user commented, "He is President-select. Selected by Trump to buy the presidency." Yet another posted AI images portraying Trump as a puppet whose strings Musk controls. View on Threads × King's history of Musk criticism This is not the first time the horror genre author has criticised Musk. In the lead-up to November's election, Musk shared a video alleging Vice President Kamala Harris supported "mandatory gun confiscation," alleging that "She wants to break the Constitution". King swiftly dismissed the claim, calling it "ridiculous." He later urged his followers to vote for Harris: "IF YOU LOVE DEMOCRACY, PLEASE VOTE FOR KAMALA HARRIS". Earlier, King addressed rumours that Musk had banned him from posting on X (formerly Twitter). Speculation suggested King had referred to Musk as Trump's "first lady," angering the Tesla CEO and leading to a ban. King, however, clarified the rumour on Threads, stating, "I didn't [say it], but only because I didn't think of it." (With inputs from agencies)

Stephen King warns fans about Elon Musk's influence over US President-elect Trump

Kazan, Russia
Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.
According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.
A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>
Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.
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? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ???
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>
According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.
As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505">France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot</a>
This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Videos of the strike purportedly show the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled a '9/11-style attack'



Kazan, Russia Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. ? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ??? Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Video: Ukraine hits Russian residential high-rises in Kazan. Dramatic visuals show '9/11-style attack'

Paris, France 
A 72-year-old woman from France, Gis&egrave;le Pelicot, was drugged and raped by 50&nbsp;men and her 'sadist' husband for almost a decade. When she was to appear in the courtroom for her criminal trial, she had the option to hide her identity to get saved from victim shaming by the world. But she did not choose that. Rather, she demanded "shame change sides" saying it's the rapist who should be ashamed of it not the survivor.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
She won the case and got her criminals behind bars becoming a feminist icon across the globe. One thing that was constant in the entire journey of her fighting was her scarf. At every court hearing, she was seen wearing one or another scarf around her neck. But one scarf that grabbed the most attention was the one&nbsp;she was wearing on the day her rapists were charged.&nbsp;
The scarf was given to her by Australia's Older Women's Network as a gift. She wore the scarf even during the dark time in the courtroom when she had to show the evidence of her rape.&nbsp;
Watch |&nbsp;Houthis Target Tel Aviv With Ballistic Missile 'Type Palestine 2'
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe width="560" height="350" style="width: 100%; max-width: 560px;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" autoplay="autoplay" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/21/2112_wion_IDF_12PM-1734768014-00000003.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2112_wion_IDF_12PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=88&amp;tags=Houthi,Yemen,missiles,Arsenal,Tel Aviv"></iframe></div>
Her scarves became the metaphor of a hug given to her by all the women across the world. Some days, her scarf was the shield in the courtroom against the vultures sitting in the trial room. And other days, it was a source of comfort and peace when she won the case.&nbsp;
<h2>Will Anything Change?&nbsp;</h2>
Now, when everything is said and done, will Gis&egrave;le's case bring any changes in the society where rape survivors have been subject to shame and guilt as if they are the one who have&nbsp;done wrong? Will the patriarchal society take a pause and think about how it deals with the rapist and survivors?&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-toppled-lander-flying-to-jovian-moon-and-more-notable-space-missions-of-2024-785789">A toppled lander, flying to Jovian moon and more: Notable space missions of 2024</a>
As Gis&egrave;le's lawyer said: "change will not come from the ministry of justice but from the ministry of education". No matter how intense the punishment is, nothing will change until consent and sex education become a part of the education curriculum. And on top of that, there is a huge need to understand that predators are not always strangers. They also could be someone expected to protect you, like we saw in Gis&egrave;le's case.&nbsp;
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Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.
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She won the case and got her criminals behind bars becoming a feminist icon across the globe. One thing that was constant in the entire journey of her fighting was her scarf. At every court hearing, she was seen wearing one or another scarf around her neck. But one scarf that grabbed the most attention was the scarf she was wearing on the day her rapists were charged. 



Paris, France A 72-year-old woman from France, Gisèle Pelicot, was drugged and raped by 50 men and her 'sadist' husband for almost a decade. When she was to appear in the courtroom for her criminal trial, she had the option to hide her identity to get saved from victim shaming by the world. But she did not choose that. Rather, she demanded "shame change sides" saying it's the rapist who should be ashamed of it not the survivor. She won the case and got her criminals behind bars becoming a feminist icon across the globe. One thing that was constant in the entire journey of her fighting was her scarf. At every court hearing, she was seen wearing one or another scarf around her neck. But one scarf that grabbed the most attention was the one she was wearing on the day her rapists were charged. The scarf was given to her by Australia's Older Women's Network as a gift. She wore the scarf even during the dark time in the courtroom when she had to show the evidence of her rape. Watch | Houthis Target Tel Aviv With Ballistic Missile 'Type Palestine 2' Her scarves became the metaphor of a hug given to her by all the women across the world. Some days, her scarf was the shield in the courtroom against the vultures sitting in the trial room. And other days, it was a source of comfort and peace when she won the case. Will Anything Change? Now, when everything is said and done, will Gisèle's case bring any changes in the society where rape survivors have been subject to shame and guilt as if they are the one who have done wrong? Will the patriarchal society take a pause and think about how it deals with the rapist and survivors? Also read | A toppled lander, flying to Jovian moon and more: Notable space missions of 2024 As Gisèle's lawyer said: "change will not come from the ministry of justice but from the ministry of education". No matter how intense the punishment is, nothing will change until consent and sex education become a part of the education curriculum. And on top of that, there is a huge need to understand that predators are not always strangers. They also could be someone expected to protect you, like we saw in Gisèle's case. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Gisèle Pelicot and her scarf: Some days a shield, other days a hug

A recent poll shows that two-thirds of the French population are dissatisfied with the new Prime Minister Bayrou, reflecting growing discontent.

France: Two-Thirds Of French Unhappy With New PM Bayrou, Poll Reveals

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commended Oleksandr Usyk's win over Britain's Tyson Fury in the Fury vs Usyk 2 fight, emphasizing Ukraine's resilience.

Fury vs Usyk 2: Zelensky Praises Oleksandr's Victory Over Tyson, Declares 'Ukraine Will Not Give Up'

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned Friday’s (Dec 20) “senseless” car attack at a Christmas market in Germany’s Magdeburg in which at least seven Indians were among the injured.

The United States conducted retaliatory strikes in Yemen's Sanaa after Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile attacks on the Israeli capital Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people.

As per reports, the Israel and Hamas ceasefire deal in Gaza is 90 per cent completed.

Pope Francis called the airstrike that killed seven children in Gaza “cruelty”, prompting a sharp reply from Israel, which accused him of “double standards”.

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-tragedy-seven-indians-among-injured-new-delhi-condemns-senseless-car-attack-785894">Germany Christmas market tragedy: Seven Indians among injured, New Delhi condemns 'senseless' car attack</a>

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India on Saturday (Dec 21) condemned the "senseless" car attack at a Christmas market in Germany's Magdeburg. This comes as reports suggest that at least seven Indians were among those injured in the vehicle attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/22/472484-new-wion-2024-12-22t062122532.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The United States on Saturday (Dec 21) announced that it had struck targets in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, hours after missile attacks on Israeli capital Tel Aviv by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hamas-talks-over-ceasefire-is-90-complete-key-issues-remain-unresolved-785903">Israel-Hamas talks over ceasefire is 90% complete; key issues remain unresolved</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/22/472496-untitled-design-36.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Israel and Hamas discussions over a ceasefire deal in Gaza are almost complete, but some hurdles that appear as clogs still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official included in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-condemns-gaza-bombings-as-cruelty-israel-hits-back-785888">Israel slams Pope Francis for 'double standards' after pontiff condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty'</a>

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Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.

Watch | PM Modi Attends Arabian Gulf Cup Opening, Meets Kuwaiti Emir

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India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned Friday’s (Dec 20) “senseless” car attack at a Christmas market in Germany’s Magdeburg in which at least seven Indians were among the injured.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned Friday’s (Dec 20) “senseless” car attack at a Christmas market in Germany’s Magdeburg in which at least seven Indians were among the injured. The United States conducted retaliatory strikes in Yemen's Sanaa after Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile attacks on the Israeli capital Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people. As per reports, the Israel and Hamas ceasefire deal in Gaza is 90 per cent completed. Pope Francis called the airstrike that killed seven children in Gaza “cruelty”, prompting a sharp reply from Israel, which accused him of “double standards”. Click on the headlines for more Germany Christmas market tragedy: Seven Indians among injured, New Delhi condemns 'senseless' car attack India on Saturday (Dec 21) condemned the "senseless" car attack at a Christmas market in Germany's Magdeburg. This comes as reports suggest that at least seven Indians were among those injured in the vehicle attack. US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv The United States on Saturday (Dec 21) announced that it had struck targets in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, hours after missile attacks on Israeli capital Tel Aviv by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Israel-Hamas talks over ceasefire is 90% complete; key issues remain unresolved Israel and Hamas discussions over a ceasefire deal in Gaza are almost complete, but some hurdles that appear as clogs still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official included in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished. Israel slams Pope Francis for 'double standards' after pontiff condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty' Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out. Watch | PM Modi Attends Arabian Gulf Cup Opening, Meets Kuwaiti Emir ×

Morning news brief: India condemns Germany Christmas market attack; US strikes Yemen, and more

New Delhi, India
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned Friday’s (Dec 20) “senseless” car attack at a Christmas market in Germany’s Magdeburg in which at least seven Indians were among the injured.
The United States conducted retaliatory strikes in Yemen's Sanaa after Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile attacks on the Israeli capital Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people.
As per reports, the Israel and Hamas ceasefire deal in Gaza is 90 per cent completed.
Pope Francis called the airstrike that killed seven children in Gaza “cruelty”, prompting a sharp reply from Israel, which accused him of “double standards”.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-tragedy-seven-indians-among-injured-new-delhi-condemns-senseless-car-attack-785894">Germany Christmas market tragedy: Seven Indians among injured, New Delhi condemns 'senseless' car attack</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/21/472358-new-wion-2024-12-21t080328985.jpg"/>
India on Saturday (Dec 21) condemned the "senseless" car attack at a Christmas market in Germany's Magdeburg. This comes as reports suggest that at least seven Indians were among those injured in the vehicle attack.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-launches-retaliatory-strike-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-after-attack-on-israels-tel-aviv-785886">US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/22/472484-new-wion-2024-12-22t062122532.jpg"/>
The United States on Saturday (Dec 21) announced that it had struck targets in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, hours after missile attacks on Israeli capital Tel Aviv by Yemen's Houthi rebels.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hamas-talks-over-ceasefire-is-90-complete-key-issues-remain-unresolved-785903">Israel-Hamas talks over ceasefire is 90% complete; key issues remain unresolved</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/22/472496-untitled-design-36.jpg"/>
Israel and Hamas discussions over a ceasefire deal in Gaza are almost complete, but some hurdles that appear as clogs still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official included in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-condemns-gaza-bombings-as-cruelty-israel-hits-back-785888">Israel slams Pope Francis for 'double standards' after pontiff condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty'</a>
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Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out.
Watch | PM Modi Attends Arabian Gulf Cup Opening, Meets Kuwaiti Emir
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Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief



New Delhi, India India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned Friday’s (Dec 20) “senseless” car attack at a Christmas market in Germany’s Magdeburg in which at least seven Indians were among the injured. The United States conducted retaliatory strikes in Yemen's Sanaa after Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile attacks on the Israeli capital Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people. As per reports, the Israel and Hamas ceasefire deal in Gaza is 90 per cent completed. Pope Francis called the airstrike that killed seven children in Gaza “cruelty”, prompting a sharp reply from Israel, which accused him of “double standards”. Click on the headlines for more Germany Christmas market tragedy: Seven Indians among injured, New Delhi condemns 'senseless' car attack India on Saturday (Dec 21) condemned the "senseless" car attack at a Christmas market in Germany's Magdeburg. This comes as reports suggest that at least seven Indians were among those injured in the vehicle attack. US launches retaliatory strike on Houthi targets in Yemen after attack on Israel's Tel Aviv The United States on Saturday (Dec 21) announced that it had struck targets in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, hours after missile attacks on Israeli capital Tel Aviv by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Israel-Hamas talks over ceasefire is 90% complete; key issues remain unresolved Israel and Hamas discussions over a ceasefire deal in Gaza are almost complete, but some hurdles that appear as clogs still need to be clarified and cleared, as per a senior Palestinian official included in the negotiations. The official spoke to the BBC and stated that the talks in Doha are 90 per cent finished. Israel slams Pope Francis for 'double standards' after pontiff condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty' Pope Francis on Saturday (Dec 21) denounced the bombing of children in Gaza, calling it an act of "cruelty," a statement that prompted Israel to hit back, accusing the pontiff of unfairly singling it out. Watch | PM Modi Attends Arabian Gulf Cup Opening, Meets Kuwaiti Emir ×

Global leaders on Saturday (December 21), strongly condemned the deadly car ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Many expressed their condolences to the people of Germany as they mourn the tragic attack.

Global leaders on Saturday (December 21), strongly condemned the deadly car ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Many expressed their condolences to the people of Germany as they mourn the tragic attack. "We condemn the horrific and senseless attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Several precious lives have been lost and many have been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with Indians who are injured, as well as their families, and rendering all possible assistance," Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on X. Also read: Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report Outgoing US President Joe Biden also denounced the attack, saying, "The United States extends our deepest condolences to the people of Germany grieving the terrible attack." "No community and no family should have to endure such a despicable and dark event, especially just days before a holiday of joy and peace," he added. “While this situation remains under investigation, make no mistake: the United States will always stand with our allies against violent terror. In the coming days, we will keep all those injured or killed—and their beloved families—close in our hearts,” Biden said. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the deadly attack in Magdeburg as a “terrible, insane act”. "What a terrible act it is to injure and kill so many people there with such brutality. We have now learned that there are over 200 who were injured. Five have died so far, an incredible number, almost 40 are so seriously injured that we have to be very worried about them," he said. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "And that’s why this is a terrible, tragic event.... We all have to show our compassion for the relatives, for the injured, for the city of Magdeburg. And that is why, as chancellor, I want to assure you of the solidarity of the entire country and everyone who bears responsibility in Germany in this matter. This goes deeply to the heart and we will and we must stand together here," Scholz added. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation of the run-over incident that occurred in a market in the city of Magdeburg in the Federal Republic of Germany, which resulted in the death and injury of a number of people, expressing its solidarity with the German people and the families of the victims," Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia posted on X. "Deeply shocked by the horror that struck the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany this evening. My thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and their loved ones and families. France shares the pain of the German people and expresses its full solidarity," French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X. (With inputs from agencies)

World leaders condemn deadly Christmas market attack in Germany; express 'solidarity in grief'

A US judge on Friday ruled in favour of Meta Platforms' WhatsApp in a lawsuit accusing Israel's NSO Group of exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging app to install spyware for unauthorised surveillance, as reported by Reuters on Saturday. US District Judge Phyllis Hamilton in Oakland, California, granted WhatsApp's motion and found NSO Group liable for hacking and breach of contract.

The case will now proceed to trial only on the issue of damages, according to Hamilton, as reported by Reuters. Head of WhatsApp, Will Cathcart, described the ruling as a "victory for privacy." "We spent five years presenting our case because we firmly believe that spyware companies could not hide behind immunity or avoid accountability for their unlawful actions," Cathcart said in a social media post." Surveillance companies should be on notice that illegal spying will not be tolerated," she added as quoted by Reuters.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-based-nso-admits-hacking-1400-whatsapp-users-with-pegasus-spyware-unsealed-court-docs-reveal-776497">&nbsp;Israel-based NSO admits hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users with Pegasus spyware, unsealed court docs reveal</a>

A WhatsApp spokesperson also expressed gratitude for the decision."We're proud to have stood up against NSO and thankful to the many organisations that supported this case. WhatsApp will continue to protect people's private communications," the spokesperson said as quoted by Reuters. Cybersecurity experts also hailed the judgment. John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the Canadian internet watchdog Citizen Lab, which first exposed NSO's Pegasus spyware in 2016, called the ruling a landmark decision with major implications for the spyware industry, as reported by Reuters."

Watch |&nbsp;Indian lawmaker Supriya Sule's WhatsApp hacked

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The entire industry has hidden behind the claim that whatever their customers do with their hacking tools is not their responsibility," Scott-Railton said. "Today's ruling clarifies that NSO Group is indeed responsible for breaking multiple laws," he added. According to Reuters, WhatsApp sued NSO in 2019, seeking an injunction and damages, accusing the company of accessing WhatsApp servers to install Pegasus spyware on victims' devices six months earlier.

According to the lawsuit, 1,400 people, including dissidents, journalists, and human rights advocates, were able to be monitored as a result of the intrusion.NSO argued that Pegasus was used by law enforcement and intelligence agencies to fight crime and protect national security, targeting terrorists, pedophiles, and criminals.

NSO appealed a 2020 trial judge's decision to deny it "conduct-based immunity," a legal doctrine protecting foreign officials performing official duties, Reuters reported. In 2021, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling, finding that NSO's role in licensing and providing technical support for Pegasus did not shield it from liability under the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. The US Supreme Court declined NSO's appeal of the lower court decision, allowing the lawsuit to proceed.&nbsp; 
 
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.

A US judge on Friday ruled in favour of Meta Platforms' WhatsApp in a lawsuit accusing Israel's NSO Group of exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging app to install spyware for unauthorised surveillance, as reported by Reuters on Saturday.

A US judge on Friday ruled in favour of Meta Platforms' WhatsApp in a lawsuit accusing Israel's NSO Group of exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging app to install spyware for unauthorised surveillance, as reported by Reuters on Saturday. US District Judge Phyllis Hamilton in Oakland, California, granted WhatsApp's motion and found NSO Group liable for hacking and breach of contract. The case will now proceed to trial only on the issue of damages, according to Hamilton, as reported by Reuters. Head of WhatsApp, Will Cathcart, described the ruling as a "victory for privacy." "We spent five years presenting our case because we firmly believe that spyware companies could not hide behind immunity or avoid accountability for their unlawful actions," Cathcart said in a social media post." Surveillance companies should be on notice that illegal spying will not be tolerated," she added as quoted by Reuters. Also Read: Israel-based NSO admits hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users with Pegasus spyware, unsealed court docs reveal A WhatsApp spokesperson also expressed gratitude for the decision."We're proud to have stood up against NSO and thankful to the many organisations that supported this case. WhatsApp will continue to protect people's private communications," the spokesperson said as quoted by Reuters. Cybersecurity experts also hailed the judgment. John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the Canadian internet watchdog Citizen Lab, which first exposed NSO's Pegasus spyware in 2016, called the ruling a landmark decision with major implications for the spyware industry, as reported by Reuters." Watch | Indian lawmaker Supriya Sule's WhatsApp hacked The entire industry has hidden behind the claim that whatever their customers do with their hacking tools is not their responsibility," Scott-Railton said. "Today's ruling clarifies that NSO Group is indeed responsible for breaking multiple laws," he added. According to Reuters, WhatsApp sued NSO in 2019, seeking an injunction and damages, accusing the company of accessing WhatsApp servers to install Pegasus spyware on victims' devices six months earlier. According to the lawsuit, 1,400 people, including dissidents, journalists, and human rights advocates, were able to be monitored as a result of the intrusion.NSO argued that Pegasus was used by law enforcement and intelligence agencies to fight crime and protect national security, targeting terrorists, pedophiles, and criminals. NSO appealed a 2020 trial judge's decision to deny it "conduct-based immunity," a legal doctrine protecting foreign officials performing official duties, Reuters reported. In 2021, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling, finding that NSO's role in licensing and providing technical support for Pegasus did not shield it from liability under the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. The US Supreme Court declined NSO's appeal of the lower court decision, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. 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.

Pegasus maker NSO group accountable in 'Whatsapp hacking case', rules US judge

California, USA 
A US judge on Friday ruled in favour of Meta Platforms' WhatsApp in a lawsuit accusing Israel's NSO Group of exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging app to install spyware for unauthorised surveillance, as reported by Reuters on Saturday. US District Judge Phyllis Hamilton in Oakland, California, granted WhatsApp's motion and found NSO Group liable for hacking and breach of contract.
The case will now proceed to trial only on the issue of damages, according to Hamilton, as reported by Reuters. Head of WhatsApp, Will Cathcart, described the ruling as a "victory for privacy." "We spent five years presenting our case because we firmly believe that spyware companies could not hide behind immunity or avoid accountability for their unlawful actions," Cathcart said in a social media post." Surveillance companies should be on notice that illegal spying will not be tolerated," she added as quoted by Reuters.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-based-nso-admits-hacking-1400-whatsapp-users-with-pegasus-spyware-unsealed-court-docs-reveal-776497"> Israel-based NSO admits hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users with Pegasus spyware, unsealed court docs reveal</a>
A WhatsApp spokesperson also expressed gratitude for the decision."We're proud to have stood up against NSO and thankful to the many organisations that supported this case. WhatsApp will continue to protect people's private communications," the spokesperson said as quoted by Reuters. Cybersecurity experts also hailed the judgment. John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the Canadian internet watchdog Citizen Lab, which first exposed NSO's Pegasus spyware in 2016, called the ruling a landmark decision with major implications for the spyware industry, as reported by Reuters."
Watch | Indian lawmaker Supriya Sule's WhatsApp hacked
<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/2024/08/12/1208_supriya_830pm_pkwo-1723481717-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1208_supriya_830pm_pkwo_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=98&tags=india,NCP,Supriya Sule,WhatsApp" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
The entire industry has hidden behind the claim that whatever their customers do with their hacking tools is not their responsibility," Scott-Railton said. "Today's ruling clarifies that NSO Group is indeed responsible for breaking multiple laws," he added. According to Reuters, WhatsApp sued NSO in 2019, seeking an injunction and damages, accusing the company of accessing WhatsApp servers to install Pegasus spyware on victims' devices six months earlier.
According to the lawsuit, 1,400 people, including dissidents, journalists, and human rights advocates, were able to be monitored as a result of the intrusion.NSO argued that Pegasus was used by law enforcement and intelligence agencies to fight crime and protect national security, targeting terrorists, pedophiles, and criminals.
NSO appealed a 2020 trial judge's decision to deny it "conduct-based immunity," a legal doctrine protecting foreign officials performing official duties, Reuters reported. In 2021, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling, finding that NSO's role in licensing and providing technical support for Pegasus did not shield it from liability under the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. The US Supreme Court declined NSO's appeal of the lower court decision, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. 
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.

The case will now proceed to trial only on the issue of damages, according to Hamilton, as reported by Reuters. Head of WhatsApp, Will Cathcart, described the ruling as a "victory for privacy."



California, USA A US judge on Friday ruled in favour of Meta Platforms' WhatsApp in a lawsuit accusing Israel's NSO Group of exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging app to install spyware for unauthorised surveillance, as reported by Reuters on Saturday. US District Judge Phyllis Hamilton in Oakland, California, granted WhatsApp's motion and found NSO Group liable for hacking and breach of contract. The case will now proceed to trial only on the issue of damages, according to Hamilton, as reported by Reuters. Head of WhatsApp, Will Cathcart, described the ruling as a "victory for privacy." "We spent five years presenting our case because we firmly believe that spyware companies could not hide behind immunity or avoid accountability for their unlawful actions," Cathcart said in a social media post." Surveillance companies should be on notice that illegal spying will not be tolerated," she added as quoted by Reuters. Also Read: Israel-based NSO admits hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users with Pegasus spyware, unsealed court docs reveal A WhatsApp spokesperson also expressed gratitude for the decision."We're proud to have stood up against NSO and thankful to the many organisations that supported this case. WhatsApp will continue to protect people's private communications," the spokesperson said as quoted by Reuters. Cybersecurity experts also hailed the judgment. John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the Canadian internet watchdog Citizen Lab, which first exposed NSO's Pegasus spyware in 2016, called the ruling a landmark decision with major implications for the spyware industry, as reported by Reuters." Watch | Indian lawmaker Supriya Sule's WhatsApp hacked The entire industry has hidden behind the claim that whatever their customers do with their hacking tools is not their responsibility," Scott-Railton said. "Today's ruling clarifies that NSO Group is indeed responsible for breaking multiple laws," he added. According to Reuters, WhatsApp sued NSO in 2019, seeking an injunction and damages, accusing the company of accessing WhatsApp servers to install Pegasus spyware on victims' devices six months earlier. According to the lawsuit, 1,400 people, including dissidents, journalists, and human rights advocates, were able to be monitored as a result of the intrusion.NSO argued that Pegasus was used by law enforcement and intelligence agencies to fight crime and protect national security, targeting terrorists, pedophiles, and criminals. NSO appealed a 2020 trial judge's decision to deny it "conduct-based immunity," a legal doctrine protecting foreign officials performing official duties, Reuters reported. In 2021, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling, finding that NSO's role in licensing and providing technical support for Pegasus did not shield it from liability under the US Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. The US Supreme Court declined NSO's appeal of the lower court decision, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. 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.

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of US President-elect Donald Trump, withdrew her name from consideration for a seat in the US Senate.&nbsp;

Earlier, she was considering herself for Florida Republican Marco Rubio’s seat in the US Senate.&nbsp;

"After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate," she posted on X on Saturday.&nbsp;

"I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our lifetime and I’m truly humbled by the unbelievable support shown to me by the people of our country, and here in the great state of Florida," Lara Trump added.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate. 
 
I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our… <a href="https://t.co/ARdvTQki9N">https://t.co/ARdvTQki9N</a>
— Lara Trump (@LaraLeaTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaraLeaTrump/status/1870600689287901423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"I remain incredibly passionate about public service and look forward to serving our country again sometime in the future. In the meantime, I wish Governor DeSantis the best of luck with this appointment," Lara said on X.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-waltz-stephen-miller-marco-rubio-donald-trumps-key-picks-for-white-house-775358">Also read:&nbsp;Mike Waltz, Stephen Miller &amp; Marco Rubio: Donald Trump's key picks for White House</a>

Earlier this month, Lara Trump, the wife of the president-elect's son Eric Trump, stepped down as co-chair of the Republican National Committee.&nbsp;

"I have read so many of your kind messages and I cannot thank you enough," Lara Trump said, adding she has a "big announcement that I’m excited to share in January."

Lara Trump was elected as RNC co-chair in March, solidifying Trump's influence over the party as he campaigned for the presidential post.&nbsp;

Trump nominated Rubio to be secretary of state. Rubio was arguably the most hawkish option on Trump's shortlist for secretary of state, and he has in past years advocated for a muscular foreign policy concerning America's geopolitical foes, including China, Iran, and Cuba.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of US President-elect Donald Trump, withdrew her name from consideration for a seat in the US Senate. Earlier, she was considering herself for Florida Republican Marco Rubio’s seat in the US Senate.

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of US President-elect Donald Trump, withdrew her name from consideration for a seat in the US Senate. Earlier, she was considering herself for Florida Republican Marco Rubio’s seat in the US Senate. "After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate," she posted on X on Saturday. "I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our lifetime and I’m truly humbled by the unbelievable support shown to me by the people of our country, and here in the great state of Florida," Lara Trump added. After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate. I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our… https://t.co/ARdvTQki9N — Lara Trump (@LaraLeaTrump) December 21, 2024 × "I remain incredibly passionate about public service and look forward to serving our country again sometime in the future. In the meantime, I wish Governor DeSantis the best of luck with this appointment," Lara said on X. Also read: Mike Waltz, Stephen Miller & Marco Rubio: Donald Trump's key picks for White House Earlier this month, Lara Trump, the wife of the president-elect's son Eric Trump, stepped down as co-chair of the Republican National Committee. "I have read so many of your kind messages and I cannot thank you enough," Lara Trump said, adding she has a "big announcement that I’m excited to share in January." Lara Trump was elected as RNC co-chair in March, solidifying Trump's influence over the party as he campaigned for the presidential post. Trump nominated Rubio to be secretary of state. Rubio was arguably the most hawkish option on Trump's shortlist for secretary of state, and he has in past years advocated for a muscular foreign policy concerning America's geopolitical foes, including China, Iran, and Cuba. (With inputs from agencies)

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, withdraws bid for US senate seat

Spain’s famous “El Gordo” Christmas lottery kicked off the holiday season with a massive prize pool worth 2.7 billion euros (around $2.8 billion) on Sunday (Dec 22). The first prize, known as "El Gordo," was awarded to ticket holders with the number 72480. Each winning ticket earned 400,000 euros (roughly $417,000) before taxes.

<h2>Winners across the country</h2>

The winning tickets were sold in Logrono, a city in northern Spain’s La Rioja region. The lottery is known for distributing smaller prizes to a wide range of winners, making it a national event that spreads joy across the country. Many Spaniards buy fractions of tickets, called “decimos,” and share them with family and friends.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-attack-suspect-charged-with-murder-as-police-probe-early-warnings-786015">Germany Christmas market attack: Suspect charged with murder as police probe earlier warnings</a>

<h2>A longstanding tradition</h2>

The draw took place in Madrid’s Teatro Real, where young students from the San Ildefonso school announced the winning numbers in a songlike cadence. The lottery, which dates back to 1812, has become a cherished tradition, with lines forming outside lottery offices for weeks leading up to the draw. This year, the event was broadcast live, with festive spectators attending in costumes.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-vietnam-india-close-to-finalising-brahmos-deal-786028">Exclusive: Vietnam, India close to finalising BrahMos deal</a>

<h2>A historical event</h2>

The Christmas lottery, first introduced in 1763, has evolved over the years from a charitable initiative to a national celebration.&nbsp;

<h2>Hope and excitement for many</h2>

For many, the fun of “El Gordo” is about more than just the chance to win big. María Ángeles, a teacher from Badajoz, travelled to Madrid with 14 family members to watch the event live. While no one in her group won much, she said the experience was all about hope. “The point of coming to see the lottery is the hope,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain’s famous “El Gordo” Christmas lottery kicked off the holiday season with a massive prize pool worth 2.7 billion euros (around $2.8 billion) on Sunday (Dec 22).

Spain’s famous “El Gordo” Christmas lottery kicked off the holiday season with a massive prize pool worth 2.7 billion euros (around $2.8 billion) on Sunday (Dec 22). The first prize, known as "El Gordo," was awarded to ticket holders with the number 72480. Each winning ticket earned 400,000 euros (roughly $417,000) before taxes. Winners across the country The winning tickets were sold in Logrono, a city in northern Spain’s La Rioja region. The lottery is known for distributing smaller prizes to a wide range of winners, making it a national event that spreads joy across the country. Many Spaniards buy fractions of tickets, called “decimos,” and share them with family and friends. Also read | Germany Christmas market attack: Suspect charged with murder as police probe earlier warnings A longstanding tradition The draw took place in Madrid’s Teatro Real, where young students from the San Ildefonso school announced the winning numbers in a songlike cadence. The lottery, which dates back to 1812, has become a cherished tradition, with lines forming outside lottery offices for weeks leading up to the draw. This year, the event was broadcast live, with festive spectators attending in costumes. Also read | Exclusive: Vietnam, India close to finalising BrahMos deal A historical event The Christmas lottery, first introduced in 1763, has evolved over the years from a charitable initiative to a national celebration. Hope and excitement for many For many, the fun of “El Gordo” is about more than just the chance to win big. María Ángeles, a teacher from Badajoz, travelled to Madrid with 14 family members to watch the event live. While no one in her group won much, she said the experience was all about hope. “The point of coming to see the lottery is the hope,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain's 'El Gordo' Christmas lottery brings joy with $2.8 billion prize pool

The US has raised concerns that Pakistan's missiles could reach regions beyond South Asia, escalating security concerns.

US Claims Pakistan Missiles Could Target Areas Beyond South Asia

The US has raised concerns that Pakistan's missiles could reach regions beyond South Asia, escalating security concerns.



Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (Dec 22) vowed to bring more destruction to Ukraine in retaliation for a drone attack on a high-rise apartment block in the city of Kazan on Saturday.&nbsp;

In other news,&nbsp;German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-will-regret-putin-vows-destruction-on-ukraine-after-drone-attack-in-kazan-786010">Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after drone attack in Kazan</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/19/466782-new-wion94.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (Dec 22) vowed to bring more destruction to Ukraine in retaliation for a drone attack on a high-rise apartment block in the city of Kazan on Saturday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-attack-suspect-charged-with-murder-as-police-probe-early-warnings-786015">Germany Christmas market attack: Suspect charged with murder as police probe early warnings</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472357-new-wion-2024-12-21t063630250.jpg?imwidth=400" />

German police said on Sunday (December 22) that the Saudi man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-panama-of-ripping-off-the-us-with-excessive-fees-threatens-to-take-back-control-786029">Trump calls Panama Canal fees 'ridiculous', threatens to take back control</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/03/469251-2024-11-06t083202z1lynxmpeka50adrtroptp4usa-election-trump.JPG?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump has called for the Panama Canal to be returned to the United States if Panama fails to manage it in a manner he deems acceptable. He also criticised the Central American country for allegedly imposing excessive charges on vessels using the vital waterway.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-minister-katz-threatens-to-crush-hezbollahs-head-if-they-violates-ceasefire-785988">Israeli minister threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if ceasefire is breached</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/24/433536-untitled-design-2024-05-24t131448875.png?imwidth=400" />

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened to "crush Hezbollah's head" if the Lebanon-based militant group violates the ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">IDF strikes Hamas command centre in former Gaza school amid hostage deal talks</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471695-wion-news-latest-3.png?imwidth=400" />

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that it conducted an overnight airstrike on Sunday (December 22), targeting a group of Hamas militants at a command centre located within a former school in Gaza City.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-historic-visit-to-kuwait-a-new-era-for-stronger-ties-between-india-kuwait-relations-785961">PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/22/472536-untitled-design.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-vietnam-india-close-to-finalising-brahmos-deal-786028">Exclusive: Vietnam, India close to finalising BrahMos deal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/25/439837-brahmos.JPG?imwidth=400" />

India and Vietnam are closer than ever to signing a USD 700 million Brahmos missile system deal as both sides plug in more procedural details. The deal could be signed as early as in a couple of months, and it is learnt that the initial techno-commercial details have already been shared and discussed by the Vietnamese Defence Ministry. Orders are expected from both the Vietnamese Army and&nbsp;Navy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absurd-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-denies-using-proxies-in-west-asia-785976">Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/28/462971-ayatollah-ali-khamenei.png?imwidth=400" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-w-vs-wi-w-smriti-mandhana-renuka-singhs-heroics-guide-india-home-in-opening-odi-786009">IND-W vs WI-W: Mandhana, Renuka's heroics guide India home in opening ODI</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/22/472557-ind-w-vs-wi-w-smriti-mandhana-renuka-singhs-heroics-guide-india-home-in-opening-odi.png?imwidth=400" />

The Indian women’s team has drawn first blood in the three-match ODI series after a one-sided win against the West Indies on Sunday (Dec 22). Playing in the ICC Championship match at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Smriti Mandhana was the hero of the hour for Women in Blue as she slammed 91 runs,&nbsp;while Renuka Singh Thakur scalped a five-for. The 211-run win sees India women take a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/justin-baldoni-dropped-from-his-agency-after-blake-livelys-sexual-harassment-case-785963">Justin Baldoni dropped from his agency after Blake's sexual harassment case</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/22/472535-happy-30th-birthday-76.png?imwidth=400" />

Actor and director Justin Baldoni has been dropped from his talent agency WME following Blake Lively's sexual harassment case.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (Dec 22) vowed to bring more destruction to Ukraine in retaliation for a drone attack on a high-rise apartment block in the city of Kazan on Saturday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (Dec 22) vowed to bring more destruction to Ukraine in retaliation for a drone attack on a high-rise apartment block in the city of Kazan on Saturday. In other news, German police said on Sunday (December 22) that a man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder. Click on the headlines to read more Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after drone attack in Kazan Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (Dec 22) vowed to bring more destruction to Ukraine in retaliation for a drone attack on a high-rise apartment block in the city of Kazan on Saturday. Germany Christmas market attack: Suspect charged with murder as police probe early warnings German police said on Sunday (December 22) that the Saudi man accused of killing at least five people and injuring hundreds more after driving a car into a crowded Christmas market is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder. Trump calls Panama Canal fees 'ridiculous', threatens to take back control Donald Trump has called for the Panama Canal to be returned to the United States if Panama fails to manage it in a manner he deems acceptable. He also criticised the Central American country for allegedly imposing excessive charges on vessels using the vital waterway. Israeli minister threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if ceasefire is breached Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened to "crush Hezbollah's head" if the Lebanon-based militant group violates the ceasefire agreement. IDF strikes Hamas command centre in former Gaza school amid hostage deal talks The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that it conducted an overnight airstrike on Sunday (December 22), targeting a group of Hamas militants at a command centre located within a former school in Gaza City. PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer". Exclusive: Vietnam, India close to finalising BrahMos deal India and Vietnam are closer than ever to signing a USD 700 million Brahmos missile system deal as both sides plug in more procedural details. The deal could be signed as early as in a couple of months, and it is learnt that the initial techno-commercial details have already been shared and discussed by the Vietnamese Defence Ministry. Orders are expected from both the Vietnamese Army and Navy. Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently 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. IND-W vs WI-W: Mandhana, Renuka's heroics guide India home in opening ODI The Indian women’s team has drawn first blood in the three-match ODI series after a one-sided win against the West Indies on Sunday (Dec 22). Playing in the ICC Championship match at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Smriti Mandhana was the hero of the hour for Women in Blue as she slammed 91 runs, while Renuka Singh Thakur scalped a five-for. The 211-run win sees India women take a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. Justin Baldoni dropped from his agency after Blake's sexual harassment case Actor and director Justin Baldoni has been dropped from his talent agency WME following Blake Lively's sexual harassment case.

Top 10 world news: Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine; Germany Christmas market attack updates, and more

Syria's new rulers have appointed Murhaf Abu Qasra, a leading figure in the insurgency which toppled Bashar al-Assad, as defence minister in the interim government, an official source said on Saturday.

Abu Qasra, who is also known by the nom de guerre Abu Hassan 600, is a senior figure in the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group which led the campaign that ousted Assad this month. He led numerous military operations during Syria's revolution, the source said.

Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa discussed "the form of the military institution in the new Syria" during a meeting with armed factions on Saturday, state news agency SANA reported.

Abu Qasra during the meeting sat next to Sharaa, also known by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, photos published by SANA showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-diplomats-arrive-in-syria-to-meet-leaders-of-new-govt-785527">US diplomats arrive in Syria to meet leaders of new govt</a>

Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir said this week that the defence ministry would be restructured using former rebel factions and officers who defected from Assad's army.

Bashir, who formerly led an HTS-affiliated administration in the northwestern province of Idlib, has said he will lead a three-month transitional government. The new administration has not declared plans for what will happen after that.

Earlier on Saturday, the ruling General Command named Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as foreign minister, SANA said. A source in the new administration told Reuters that this step "comes in response to the aspirations of the Syrian people to establish international relations that bring peace and stability".

Shibani, a 37-year-old graduate of Damascus University, previously led the political department of the rebels' Idlib government, the General Command said.

Sharaa's group was part of al Qaeda until he broke ties in 2016. It had been confined to Idlib for years until going on the offensive in late November, sweeping through the cities of western Syria and into Damascus as the army melted away.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drops-bounty-on-syrias-new-leader-after-talks-in-syrian-capital-785759">US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital</a>

Sharaa has met with a number of international envoys this week. He has said his primary focus is on reconstruction and achieving economic development and that he is not interested in engaging in any new conflicts.

Syrian rebels seized control of Damascus on Dec. 8, forcing Assad to flee after more than 13 years of civil war and ending his family's decades-long rule.

Washington designated Sharaa a terrorist in 2013, saying al Qaeda in Iraq had tasked him with overthrowing Assad's rule and establishing Islamic sharia law in Syria. U.S. officials said on Friday that Washington would remove a $10 million bounty on his head.

Watch |&nbsp;Syria After Assad: New Syrian Leadership Faces Major Challenges

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The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people, caused one of the biggest refugee crises of modern times and left cities bombed to rubble and the economy hollowed out by global sanctions.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria's new rulers have appointed Murhaf Abu Qasra, a leading figure in the insurgency which toppled Bashar al-Assad, as defence minister in the interim government, an official source said on Saturday.

Syria's new rulers have appointed Murhaf Abu Qasra, a leading figure in the insurgency which toppled Bashar al-Assad, as defence minister in the interim government, an official source said on Saturday. Abu Qasra, who is also known by the nom de guerre Abu Hassan 600, is a senior figure in the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group which led the campaign that ousted Assad this month. He led numerous military operations during Syria's revolution, the source said. Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa discussed "the form of the military institution in the new Syria" during a meeting with armed factions on Saturday, state news agency SANA reported. Abu Qasra during the meeting sat next to Sharaa, also known by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, photos published by SANA showed. Also read | US diplomats arrive in Syria to meet leaders of new govt Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir said this week that the defence ministry would be restructured using former rebel factions and officers who defected from Assad's army. Bashir, who formerly led an HTS-affiliated administration in the northwestern province of Idlib, has said he will lead a three-month transitional government. The new administration has not declared plans for what will happen after that. Earlier on Saturday, the ruling General Command named Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as foreign minister, SANA said. A source in the new administration told Reuters that this step "comes in response to the aspirations of the Syrian people to establish international relations that bring peace and stability". Shibani, a 37-year-old graduate of Damascus University, previously led the political department of the rebels' Idlib government, the General Command said. Sharaa's group was part of al Qaeda until he broke ties in 2016. It had been confined to Idlib for years until going on the offensive in late November, sweeping through the cities of western Syria and into Damascus as the army melted away. Also read | US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital Sharaa has met with a number of international envoys this week. He has said his primary focus is on reconstruction and achieving economic development and that he is not interested in engaging in any new conflicts. Syrian rebels seized control of Damascus on Dec. 8, forcing Assad to flee after more than 13 years of civil war and ending his family's decades-long rule. Washington designated Sharaa a terrorist in 2013, saying al Qaeda in Iraq had tasked him with overthrowing Assad's rule and establishing Islamic sharia law in Syria. U.S. officials said on Friday that Washington would remove a $10 million bounty on his head. Watch | Syria After Assad: New Syrian Leadership Faces Major Challenges × The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people, caused one of the biggest refugee crises of modern times and left cities bombed to rubble and the economy hollowed out by global sanctions. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syrian authorities name HTS commander as defence minister

Damascus, Syria
Syria's new rulers have appointed Murhaf Abu Qasra, a leading figure in the insurgency which toppled Bashar al-Assad, as defence minister in the interim government, an official source said on Saturday.
Abu Qasra, who is also known by the nom de guerre Abu Hassan 600, is a senior figure in the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group which led the campaign that ousted Assad this month. He led numerous military operations during Syria's revolution, the source said.
Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa discussed "the form of the military institution in the new Syria" during a meeting with armed factions on Saturday, state news agency SANA reported.
Abu Qasra during the meeting sat next to Sharaa, also known by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, photos published by SANA showed.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-diplomats-arrive-in-syria-to-meet-leaders-of-new-govt-785527">US diplomats arrive in Syria to meet leaders of new govt</a>
Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir said this week that the defence ministry would be restructured using former rebel factions and officers who defected from Assad's army.
Bashir, who formerly led an HTS-affiliated administration in the northwestern province of Idlib, has said he will lead a three-month transitional government. The new administration has not declared plans for what will happen after that.
Earlier on Saturday, the ruling General Command named Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as foreign minister, SANA said. A source in the new administration told Reuters that this step "comes in response to the aspirations of the Syrian people to establish international relations that bring peace and stability".
Shibani, a 37-year-old graduate of Damascus University, previously led the political department of the rebels' Idlib government, the General Command said.
Sharaa's group was part of al Qaeda until he broke ties in 2016. It had been confined to Idlib for years until going on the offensive in late November, sweeping through the cities of western Syria and into Damascus as the army melted away.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drops-bounty-on-syrias-new-leader-after-talks-in-syrian-capital-785759">US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital</a>
Sharaa has met with a number of international envoys this week. He has said his primary focus is on reconstruction and achieving economic development and that he is not interested in engaging in any new conflicts.
Syrian rebels seized control of Damascus on Dec. 8, forcing Assad to flee after more than 13 years of civil war and ending his family's decades-long rule.
Washington designated Sharaa a terrorist in 2013, saying al Qaeda in Iraq had tasked him with overthrowing Assad's rule and establishing Islamic sharia law in Syria. U.S. officials said on Friday that Washington would remove a $10 million bounty on his head.
Watch | Syria After Assad: New Syrian Leadership Faces Major Challenges
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The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people, caused one of the biggest refugee crises of modern times and left cities bombed to rubble and the economy hollowed out by global sanctions.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Earlier on Saturday, the ruling General Command named Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as foreign minister, SANA said



Damascus, Syria Syria's new rulers have appointed Murhaf Abu Qasra, a leading figure in the insurgency which toppled Bashar al-Assad, as defence minister in the interim government, an official source said on Saturday. Abu Qasra, who is also known by the nom de guerre Abu Hassan 600, is a senior figure in the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group which led the campaign that ousted Assad this month. He led numerous military operations during Syria's revolution, the source said. Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa discussed "the form of the military institution in the new Syria" during a meeting with armed factions on Saturday, state news agency SANA reported. Abu Qasra during the meeting sat next to Sharaa, also known by the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, photos published by SANA showed. Also read | US diplomats arrive in Syria to meet leaders of new govt Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir said this week that the defence ministry would be restructured using former rebel factions and officers who defected from Assad's army. Bashir, who formerly led an HTS-affiliated administration in the northwestern province of Idlib, has said he will lead a three-month transitional government. The new administration has not declared plans for what will happen after that. Earlier on Saturday, the ruling General Command named Asaad Hassan al-Shibani as foreign minister, SANA said. A source in the new administration told Reuters that this step "comes in response to the aspirations of the Syrian people to establish international relations that bring peace and stability". Shibani, a 37-year-old graduate of Damascus University, previously led the political department of the rebels' Idlib government, the General Command said. Sharaa's group was part of al Qaeda until he broke ties in 2016. It had been confined to Idlib for years until going on the offensive in late November, sweeping through the cities of western Syria and into Damascus as the army melted away. Also read | US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital Sharaa has met with a number of international envoys this week. He has said his primary focus is on reconstruction and achieving economic development and that he is not interested in engaging in any new conflicts. Syrian rebels seized control of Damascus on Dec. 8, forcing Assad to flee after more than 13 years of civil war and ending his family's decades-long rule. Washington designated Sharaa a terrorist in 2013, saying al Qaeda in Iraq had tasked him with overthrowing Assad's rule and establishing Islamic sharia law in Syria. U.S. officials said on Friday that Washington would remove a $10 million bounty on his head. Watch | Syria After Assad: New Syrian Leadership Faces Major Challenges × The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people, caused one of the biggest refugee crises of modern times and left cities bombed to rubble and the economy hollowed out by global sanctions. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed concern about the rise in illegal immigration, warning it could be exploited by Moscow to destabilize the European Union. She emphasized the need for stronger immigration policies to safeguard EU unity.

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A catastrophic collision between a bus and a truck in Brazil has left at least 38 people dead and many others injured, highlighting the ongoing road safety concerns in the country.

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