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Wisconsin, United States
Wisconsin school shooting: Police in the US state of Wisconsin have released the name of the shooter in Monday's (Dec 16) gun incident at Abundant Life Christian School.
They have identified the shooter as 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow. Earlier US reports had wrongly suggested that the suspect was a 17-year-old female student.
<h2>All we know about the shooter</h2>
Natalie Rupnow, who also went by the name Samantha, a 15-year-old female student at the private Christian school with about 400 pupils, opened fire on her classmates, before turning the handgun on herself.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madison-school-shooting-two-killed-six-injured-in-shooting-by-17-year-old-female-student-784505">Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by female student</a>
Speaking at a press briefing, Shon Barnes, police chief in the state capital Madison, said, "The shooter has now been identified as (a) 15-year-old."
"She was a student at the school, and evidence suggests she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound," he added. 
He also revealed that, tragically, the shooting was reported by a young second-grade student before 11:00 am local time (1700 GMT).
Watch | USA: Tragic Wisconsin School Shooting Leaves Three Dead; Juvenile Among The Victims
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<h2>Will the parents be charged?</h2>
Police Chief Barnes said that they were not looking to charge the parents in connection to the shooting "at this time" and that they have so far been cooperating with the investigation.
The United States in recent times has somewhat hardened its stance on shootings by minors, punishing parents for the carelessness leading to their children's heinous crimes.
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Previously, in a similar case, in April 2024, Jennifer Crumbley and James Crumbley, the parents of Ethan Crumbley, the shooter of the November 2021 Oxford High School mass shooting, were charged with involuntary manslaughter for their son's crimes. On 30 November 2021, Ethan, who was 15 years old at the time of the attack, went on a shooting spree at his school at Oxford High School in Michigan. He killed four of his classmates and injured seven others.
(With inputs from agencies)

Police have identified the shooter as 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow. Earlier US reports had wrongly suggested that the suspect was a 17-year-old female student



Wisconsin, United States Wisconsin school shooting: Police in the US state of Wisconsin have released the name of the shooter in Monday's (Dec 16) gun incident at Abundant Life Christian School. They have identified the shooter as 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow. Earlier US reports had wrongly suggested that the suspect was a 17-year-old female student. All we know about the shooter Natalie Rupnow, who also went by the name Samantha, a 15-year-old female student at the private Christian school with about 400 pupils, opened fire on her classmates, before turning the handgun on herself. Also read | Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by female student Speaking at a press briefing, Shon Barnes, police chief in the state capital Madison, said, "The shooter has now been identified as (a) 15-year-old." "She was a student at the school, and evidence suggests she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound," he added. He also revealed that, tragically, the shooting was reported by a young second-grade student before 11:00 am local time (1700 GMT). Watch | USA: Tragic Wisconsin School Shooting Leaves Three Dead; Juvenile Among The Victims Will the parents be charged? Police Chief Barnes said that they were not looking to charge the parents in connection to the shooting "at this time" and that they have so far been cooperating with the investigation. The United States in recent times has somewhat hardened its stance on shootings by minors, punishing parents for the carelessness leading to their children's heinous crimes. Also read | Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge Previously, in a similar case, in April 2024, Jennifer Crumbley and James Crumbley, the parents of Ethan Crumbley, the shooter of the November 2021 Oxford High School mass shooting, were charged with involuntary manslaughter for their son's crimes. On 30 November 2021, Ethan, who was 15 years old at the time of the attack, went on a shooting spree at his school at Oxford High School in Michigan. He killed four of his classmates and injured seven others. (With inputs from agencies)

Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call

Islamabad, Pakistan
Militants shot a police officer guarding polio vaccinators in Pakistan on Monday, police said, the day after health workers launched a nationwide campaign against the resurgent disease.
Pakistan and neighbouring Afghanistan are the only countries where polio remains endemic and the vaccination teams frequently come under attack by militants targeting security forces.
"The attack resulted in the death of the police officer at the scene, while one polio worker was injured," a senior police official told AFP on the condition of anonymity.
The police officer was travelling with two vaccinators when they were attacked by motorcyclists.
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No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which has long been a hive of militant activity, including by the Pakistani Taliban.
The polio campaign has been temporarily suspended in Shakar Khel, the village where the incident took place, but continues in other parts of the northwest province bordering Afghanistan.
Pakistan has seen a surge in polio cases this year, recording 63 this year compared with six in 2023.
On Monday, the Pakistan government launched a four-day campaign that will cover 143 districts across the country, with over 400,000 polio workers going door-to-door aiming to immunise more than 45 million children over the age of five.
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"I appeal to all parents across Pakistan to fully cooperate with the campaign, vaccinate their children against polio to protect them from this disease permanently," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said during the campaign launch, a day before the attack.
Polio can easily be prevented by the oral administration of a few drops of vaccine, but in parts of rural Pakistan health workers risk their lives to save others.
Scores of polio vaccination workers and their escorts have been killed over the years.
In September, dozens of Pakistani policemen who accompany medical teams on door-to-door campaigns went on strike after a string of militant attacks.
In the past, clerics falsely claimed that the vaccine contained pork or alcohol, declaring it forbidden for Muslims to consume.
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.

Pakistan and neighbouring Afghanistan are the only countries where polio remains endemic and the vaccination teams frequently come under attack by militants targeting security forces.



Islamabad, Pakistan Militants shot a police officer guarding polio vaccinators in Pakistan on Monday, police said, the day after health workers launched a nationwide campaign against the resurgent disease. Pakistan and neighbouring Afghanistan are the only countries where polio remains endemic and the vaccination teams frequently come under attack by militants targeting security forces. "The attack resulted in the death of the police officer at the scene, while one polio worker was injured," a senior police official told AFP on the condition of anonymity. The police officer was travelling with two vaccinators when they were attacked by motorcyclists. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which has long been a hive of militant activity, including by the Pakistani Taliban. The polio campaign has been temporarily suspended in Shakar Khel, the village where the incident took place, but continues in other parts of the northwest province bordering Afghanistan. Pakistan has seen a surge in polio cases this year, recording 63 this year compared with six in 2023. On Monday, the Pakistan government launched a four-day campaign that will cover 143 districts across the country, with over 400,000 polio workers going door-to-door aiming to immunise more than 45 million children over the age of five. Also read | Russian woman earlier held for stowing away to Paris now detained sneaking into Canada "I appeal to all parents across Pakistan to fully cooperate with the campaign, vaccinate their children against polio to protect them from this disease permanently," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said during the campaign launch, a day before the attack. Polio can easily be prevented by the oral administration of a few drops of vaccine, but in parts of rural Pakistan health workers risk their lives to save others. Scores of polio vaccination workers and their escorts have been killed over the years. In September, dozens of Pakistani policemen who accompany medical teams on door-to-door campaigns went on strike after a string of militant attacks. In the past, clerics falsely claimed that the vaccine contained pork or alcohol, declaring it forbidden for Muslims to consume. 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.

Police officer shot dead amid Pakistan’s polio vaccination drive

On Monday, the British government cleared Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky's purchase of the Royal Mail's parent company, International Distribution Services, for $4.43 billion. Watch for more details!

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Washington, United States
TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now.
The appeal to the nation's top court came on the same day that TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew met with US President-elect Donald Trump, according to an NBC News report.
At a press conference Monday, Trump said he has "a warm spot" for TikTok and that his administration would take a look at the app and the potential for a ban.
The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless its owner ByteDance divests from the app by January 19.
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TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself.
TikTok asked the nation's top court to make a decision by January 6.
"Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction," TikTok, which claims to have more than 170 million monthly US users, said in its filing with the Supreme Court.
Should the law come into force it would "shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration," TikTok said.
"This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern," it added.
"Applicants -- as well as countless small businesses who rely on the platform -- also will suffer substantial and unrecoverable monetary and competitive harms."
The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20.
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Trump has emerged as an unlikely TikTok ally amid concerns that a ban on the app would mainly benefit Meta, the Facebook parent company owned by Mark Zuckerberg.
Trump's stance reflects conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including the former president himself being banned from Facebook after the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot by his supporters.
Trump's support for TikTok marks a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app over similar security concerns.
The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says the video hosting service is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and ByteDance strongly deny these claims.
A three-judge US appeals court panel earlier this month unanimously upheld the law's premise that TikTok divesting from Chinese ownership "is essential to protect our national security."
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.

TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself



Washington, United States TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now. The appeal to the nation's top court came on the same day that TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew met with US President-elect Donald Trump, according to an NBC News report. At a press conference Monday, Trump said he has "a warm spot" for TikTok and that his administration would take a look at the app and the potential for a ban. The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless its owner ByteDance divests from the app by January 19. Also read | TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself. TikTok asked the nation's top court to make a decision by January 6. "Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction," TikTok, which claims to have more than 170 million monthly US users, said in its filing with the Supreme Court. Should the law come into force it would "shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration," TikTok said. "This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern," it added. "Applicants -- as well as countless small businesses who rely on the platform -- also will suffer substantial and unrecoverable monetary and competitive harms." The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call Trump has emerged as an unlikely TikTok ally amid concerns that a ban on the app would mainly benefit Meta, the Facebook parent company owned by Mark Zuckerberg. Trump's stance reflects conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including the former president himself being banned from Facebook after the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot by his supporters. Trump's support for TikTok marks a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app over similar security concerns. The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says the video hosting service is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and ByteDance strongly deny these claims. A three-judge US appeals court panel earlier this month unanimously upheld the law's premise that TikTok divesting from Chinese ownership "is essential to protect our national security." 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.

TikTok appeals US Supreme Court to temporarily pause ban in America

Hindu leaders in the United States have warmly welcomed former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard at the Akshardham Temple in New Jersey. The visit highlights her strong ties to the Hindu community and her continued influence in U.S. politics.

USA: Hindu Leaders Welcome Tulsi Gabbard at Akshardham Temple in New Jersey

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing increasing pressure from within his own party, as several MPs have called for his resignation. The political unrest comes amid growing dissatisfaction with his leadership and the direction of his government.

Canada: Justin Trudeau Faces Resignation Calls From Own MPs

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: 



- Yoon Suk Yeol ordered to appear for questioning by Saturday

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Yoon Suk Yeol Ordered To Appear For Questioning By Saturday | WION Speed News

Port Vila, Vanuatu
A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city.
The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey.
The ground floor of a building housing the US, French and other embassies had been crushed under higher floors, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone after posting images of the destruction on social media.
"That no longer exists. It is just completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but they have dropped," Thompson said.
"If there was anyone in there at the time, then they're gone."
Thompson said the ground floor housed the US embassy. This could not be immediately confirmed.
The United States has closed the embassy until further notice, citing "considerable damage" to the mission, the US embassy in Papua New Guinea said in a message on social media.
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"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake," the embassy said.
The New Zealand High Commission, housed in the same building, suffered "significant damage", a statement from Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office said.
"New Zealand is deeply concerned about the significant earthquake in Vanuatu, and the damage it has caused."
<h2>Roof collapsed on cars</h2>
Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said: "There's people in the buildings in town. There were bodies there when we walked past."
A landslide on one road had covered a bus, he said, "so there's obviously some deaths there".
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The quake also collapsed at least two bridges, and most mobile networks were cut off, Thompson said.
"They're just cracking on with a rescue operation. The support we need from overseas is medical evacuation and skilled rescue, kind of people that can operate in earthquakes," he said.
Video footage posted by Thompson and verified by AFP showed uniformed rescuers and emergency vehicles working on a building where an external roof had collapsed onto a number of parked cars and trucks.
The streets of the city were strewn with broken glass and other debris from damaged buildings, the footage showed.
Nibhay Nand, a Sydney-based pharmacist with businesses across the South Pacific, said he had spoken to staff in Port Vila who said most of the store there had been "destroyed" and that other buildings nearby had "collapsed".
"We are waiting for everyone to get online to know how devastating and traumatic this will be," Nand told AFP.
A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre (three feet) forecast for some areas of Vanuatu, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people that straddles the seismic Ring of Fire, an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.
Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report.
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 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT).



Port Vila, Vanuatu A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey. The ground floor of a building housing the US, French and other embassies had been crushed under higher floors, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone after posting images of the destruction on social media. "That no longer exists. It is just completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but they have dropped," Thompson said. "If there was anyone in there at the time, then they're gone." Thompson said the ground floor housed the US embassy. This could not be immediately confirmed. The United States has closed the embassy until further notice, citing "considerable damage" to the mission, the US embassy in Papua New Guinea said in a message on social media. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake," the embassy said. The New Zealand High Commission, housed in the same building, suffered "significant damage", a statement from Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office said. "New Zealand is deeply concerned about the significant earthquake in Vanuatu, and the damage it has caused." Roof collapsed on cars Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said: "There's people in the buildings in town. There were bodies there when we walked past." A landslide on one road had covered a bus, he said, "so there's obviously some deaths there". Also read | Asian markets waver as investors await central bank rate decisions The quake also collapsed at least two bridges, and most mobile networks were cut off, Thompson said. "They're just cracking on with a rescue operation. The support we need from overseas is medical evacuation and skilled rescue, kind of people that can operate in earthquakes," he said. Video footage posted by Thompson and verified by AFP showed uniformed rescuers and emergency vehicles working on a building where an external roof had collapsed onto a number of parked cars and trucks. The streets of the city were strewn with broken glass and other debris from damaged buildings, the footage showed. Nibhay Nand, a Sydney-based pharmacist with businesses across the South Pacific, said he had spoken to staff in Port Vila who said most of the store there had been "destroyed" and that other buildings nearby had "collapsed". "We are waiting for everyone to get online to know how devastating and traumatic this will be," Nand told AFP. A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre (three feet) forecast for some areas of Vanuatu, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people that straddles the seismic Ring of Fire, an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report. 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.

Bodies found amid rubble in Vanuatu capital after powerful 7.3 magnitude quake

The much-anticipated "One Nation, One Election" bill is likely to be presented in the Indian Parliament today. The bill aims to overhaul the country's electoral system, proposing simultaneous national and state elections to streamline the electoral process and reduce costs.



India: "One Nation, One Election" To Improve Election Monitoring System Says BJP

The Islamist group that drove out Bashar al-Assad from Syria and toppled his decades-old regime said, on Monday (Dec 16), that the rebel groups in the country would be disbanded and the fighters would be listed under the defence ministry. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group (HTS) leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani also called on the Western nations to lift sanctions on the country so that refugees can return. &nbsp;

The HTS led the 11-day rebel offensive against the Assad regime, leading to his ouster and the fall of the capital Damascus.

Mohammed al-Jolani, on Monday, took to Telegram and said all rebel factions who participated in the offensive would be disbanded and “the fighters would be trained to join the ranks of the defence ministry". "All will be subject to the law," said the HTS leader, who now uses his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa.

<h2>Special emphasis on unity</h2>

The HTS leader also called for unity in Syria, a country made up of several minority groups and ethnicities. While addressing the members of the Druze community, a sect of Shi’ite Islam making up about 3 per cent of Syria's pre-war population, he said, "Syria must remain united. There must be a social contract between the state and all religions to guarantee social justice."

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It must be noted that while several Western leaders have welcomed the fall of the Assad regime, they are looking askance upon the new administration and are waiting to see how it will treat its minorities.

<h2>‘Sanctions must be lifted’</h2>

The HTS leader even held a meeting with a delegation from the UK and underscored “the importance of restoring relations" with London. He said that ending "all sanctions imposed on Syria” was important so that “refugees can return to their country".

Watch:&nbsp;After Assad's Ouster in Syria, UN Envoy Calls For End to Sanctions

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Nations like the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden and Norway have already suspended the processing of asylum applications from Syrians. The West had placed a host of sanctions on the Assad regime, aimed at crippling the war-torn country’s economy. The sanctions include bans on weapons sales to Syria and oil imports from the country.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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)

The Islamist group that drove out Bashar al-Assad from Syria and toppled his decades-old regime said, on Monday (Dec 16), that the rebel groups in the country would be disbanded and the fighters would be listed under the defence ministry.

The Islamist group that drove out Bashar al-Assad from Syria and toppled his decades-old regime said, on Monday (Dec 16), that the rebel groups in the country would be disbanded and the fighters would be listed under the defence ministry. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group (HTS) leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani also called on the Western nations to lift sanctions on the country so that refugees can return. The HTS led the 11-day rebel offensive against the Assad regime, leading to his ouster and the fall of the capital Damascus. Mohammed al-Jolani, on Monday, took to Telegram and said all rebel factions who participated in the offensive would be disbanded and “the fighters would be trained to join the ranks of the defence ministry". "All will be subject to the law," said the HTS leader, who now uses his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa. Special emphasis on unity The HTS leader also called for unity in Syria, a country made up of several minority groups and ethnicities. While addressing the members of the Druze community, a sect of Shi’ite Islam making up about 3 per cent of Syria's pre-war population, he said, "Syria must remain united. There must be a social contract between the state and all religions to guarantee social justice." Also read: `Not part of the plan,` Syria`s Assad breaks silence, says Russia `requested` immediate evacuation It must be noted that while several Western leaders have welcomed the fall of the Assad regime, they are looking askance upon the new administration and are waiting to see how it will treat its minorities. ‘Sanctions must be lifted’ The HTS leader even held a meeting with a delegation from the UK and underscored “the importance of restoring relations" with London. He said that ending "all sanctions imposed on Syria” was important so that “refugees can return to their country". Watch: After Assad's Ouster in Syria, UN Envoy Calls For End to Sanctions × Nations like the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden and Norway have already suspended the processing of asylum applications from Syrians. The West had placed a host of sanctions on the Assad regime, aimed at crippling the war-torn country’s economy. The sanctions include bans on weapons sales to Syria and oil imports from the country. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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)

HTS leader says Syrian rebel fighters to be placed under ‘defence ministry’, calls on West to lift sanctions

Damascus
The Islamist group that drove out Bashar al-Assad from Syria and toppled his decades-old regime said, on Monday (Dec 16), that the rebel groups in the country would be disbanded and the fighters would be listed under the defence ministry. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group (HTS) leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani also called on the Western nations to lift sanctions on the country so that refugees can return.  
The HTS led the 11-day rebel offensive against the Assad regime, leading to his ouster and the fall of the capital Damascus.
Mohammed al-Jolani, on Monday, took to Telegram and said all rebel factions who participated in the offensive would be disbanded and “the fighters would be trained to join the ranks of the defence ministry". "All will be subject to the law," said the HTS leader, who now uses his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa.
<h2>Special emphasis on unity</h2>
The HTS leader also called for unity in Syria, a country made up of several minority groups and ethnicities. While addressing the members of the Druze community, a sect of Shi’ite Islam making up about 3 per cent of Syria's pre-war population, he said, "Syria must remain united. There must be a social contract between the state and all religions to guarantee social justice."
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjO5aKNkq6KAxW0xzgGHSzpIU0QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-part-of-the-plan-syrias-assad-breaks-silence-says-he-was-evacuated-to-russia-784421" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/not-part-of-the-plan-syrias-assad-breaks-silence-says-he-was-evacuated-to-russia-784421&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjO5aKNkq6KAxW0xzgGHSzpIU0QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">`Not part of the plan,` Syria`s Assad breaks silence, says Russia `requested` immediate evacuation</a>
It must be noted that while several Western leaders have welcomed the fall of the Assad regime, they are looking askance upon the new administration and are waiting to see how it will treat its minorities.
<h2>‘Sanctions must be lifted’</h2>
The HTS leader even held a meeting with a delegation from the UK and underscored “the importance of restoring relations" with London. He said that ending "all sanctions imposed on Syria” was important so that “refugees can return to their country".
Watch: After Assad's Ouster in Syria, UN Envoy Calls For End to Sanctions
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Nations like the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden and Norway have already suspended the processing of asylum applications from Syrians. The West had placed a host of sanctions on the Assad regime, aimed at crippling the war-torn country’s economy. The sanctions include bans on weapons sales to Syria and oil imports from the country.
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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)

Mohammed al-Jolani, on Monday, took to Telegram and said all rebel factions who participated in the offensive would be disbanded and “the fighters would be trained to join the ranks of the defence ministry."



Damascus The Islamist group that drove out Bashar al-Assad from Syria and toppled his decades-old regime said, on Monday (Dec 16), that the rebel groups in the country would be disbanded and the fighters would be listed under the defence ministry. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group (HTS) leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani also called on the Western nations to lift sanctions on the country so that refugees can return. The HTS led the 11-day rebel offensive against the Assad regime, leading to his ouster and the fall of the capital Damascus. Mohammed al-Jolani, on Monday, took to Telegram and said all rebel factions who participated in the offensive would be disbanded and “the fighters would be trained to join the ranks of the defence ministry". "All will be subject to the law," said the HTS leader, who now uses his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa. Special emphasis on unity The HTS leader also called for unity in Syria, a country made up of several minority groups and ethnicities. While addressing the members of the Druze community, a sect of Shi’ite Islam making up about 3 per cent of Syria's pre-war population, he said, "Syria must remain united. There must be a social contract between the state and all religions to guarantee social justice." Also read: `Not part of the plan,` Syria`s Assad breaks silence, says Russia `requested` immediate evacuation It must be noted that while several Western leaders have welcomed the fall of the Assad regime, they are looking askance upon the new administration and are waiting to see how it will treat its minorities. ‘Sanctions must be lifted’ The HTS leader even held a meeting with a delegation from the UK and underscored “the importance of restoring relations" with London. He said that ending "all sanctions imposed on Syria” was important so that “refugees can return to their country". Watch: After Assad's Ouster in Syria, UN Envoy Calls For End to Sanctions × Nations like the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden and Norway have already suspended the processing of asylum applications from Syrians. The West had placed a host of sanctions on the Assad regime, aimed at crippling the war-torn country’s economy. The sanctions include bans on weapons sales to Syria and oil imports from the country. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like 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)

Dominique Pelicot, the 71-year-old at the center of a shocking rape trial in France, took the stand for the final time today. Pelicot apologized to his family and thanked the court for considering his medical conditions. Watch in for more details!

French Rape Trial Nears Verdict: Dominique Pelicot Apologises To Family As Rape Trial Concludes

Taiwan received the first shipment of 38 M1A2 Abrams tanks from the US, bolstering its defense against potential Chinese aggression. Watch this report for more details!

Taiwan Receives First Batch of 38 Advanced Abrams Tank

A shooting at a School on Monday left two dead and at least six injured in Wisconsin. The suspect, identified as a juvenile believed to be a student, was also found dead inside the school.

Three Dead, Others Injured In A School Shooting In Wisconsin

A shooting at a School on Monday left two dead and at least six injured in Wisconsin. The suspect, identified as a juvenile believed to be a student, was also found dead inside the school.



Democratic party aides have been floating ideas for a Kamala Harris political comeback, looking forward to another run at the US's highest office even after Republican Donald Trump defeated Democratic Party nominee last month in the US Presidential elections.&nbsp;

Earlier also, Harris did not rule out a second run for the presidency and now has been reportedly considering a run for the California governorship, currently held by Gavin Newsom until 2027.&nbsp;

There were rumours that Newsom was also a presidential contender during this year's elections when Joe Biden stepped down from a rematch with Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Some Democratic party aides believe Trump has sufficiently overturned the norms of losing White House candidates' not attempting a second bite of the proverbial apple to give Harris the opportunity of a repeat bid in 2028, The Washington Post reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-where-did-kamala-harris-campaign-money-of-1-billion-go-776930">Also read:&nbsp;US election: Where did Kamala Harris' campaign money of $1 billion go?</a>

Donna Brazile, a Harris ally, Al Gore 2000 presidential campaign manager, and a political commentator, said, “Since Donald Trump has rewritten the rules—the norms—I don’t believe Kamala Harris or anyone should try to go with precedent, ever."&nbsp;

She added, "There are no rule books.”

“The rules potentially don’t apply this time, and she still absolutely could have a mulligan because of the unique circumstances of this race and the candidate switch," Molly Murphy, a pollster who worked on both the Biden and Harris campaigns said. “But I don’t think it will be a given.”

The Democratic Party has been shaping an argument, saying that her loss to Trump was not as comprehensive as has been popularly portrayed.

Watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: 'Time To Roll Up Sleeves' Says Kamala Harris As She Concedes Defeat

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One of the Harris advisors said, “She is ending this race in a very different place than other nominees that have lost. Her approval is higher. People were very happy with the race that she ran.”

However, Harris has not revealed her thoughts on this, but is said to be “processing” her loss and plans to “stay in the fight”.&nbsp;

“The fight that fueled our campaign – a fight for freedom and opportunity – that did not end on November 5,” Harris said on a call with donors and supporters in November. Reportedly, she used the word “fight” 19 times during that call.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Democratic party aides have been floating ideas for a Kamala Harris political comeback, looking forward to another run at the US's highest office even after Republican Donald Trump defeated Democratic Party nominee last month in the US Presidential elections.

Democratic party aides have been floating ideas for a Kamala Harris political comeback, looking forward to another run at the US's highest office even after Republican Donald Trump defeated Democratic Party nominee last month in the US Presidential elections. Earlier also, Harris did not rule out a second run for the presidency and now has been reportedly considering a run for the California governorship, currently held by Gavin Newsom until 2027. There were rumours that Newsom was also a presidential contender during this year's elections when Joe Biden stepped down from a rematch with Donald Trump. Some Democratic party aides believe Trump has sufficiently overturned the norms of losing White House candidates' not attempting a second bite of the proverbial apple to give Harris the opportunity of a repeat bid in 2028, The Washington Post reported. Also read: US election: Where did Kamala Harris' campaign money of $1 billion go? Donna Brazile, a Harris ally, Al Gore 2000 presidential campaign manager, and a political commentator, said, “Since Donald Trump has rewritten the rules—the norms—I don’t believe Kamala Harris or anyone should try to go with precedent, ever." She added, "There are no rule books.” “The rules potentially don’t apply this time, and she still absolutely could have a mulligan because of the unique circumstances of this race and the candidate switch," Molly Murphy, a pollster who worked on both the Biden and Harris campaigns said. “But I don’t think it will be a given.” The Democratic Party has been shaping an argument, saying that her loss to Trump was not as comprehensive as has been popularly portrayed. Watch | US Elections 2024: 'Time To Roll Up Sleeves' Says Kamala Harris As She Concedes Defeat × One of the Harris advisors said, “She is ending this race in a very different place than other nominees that have lost. Her approval is higher. People were very happy with the race that she ran.” However, Harris has not revealed her thoughts on this, but is said to be “processing” her loss and plans to “stay in the fight”. “The fight that fueled our campaign – a fight for freedom and opportunity – that did not end on November 5,” Harris said on a call with donors and supporters in November. Reportedly, she used the word “fight” 19 times during that call. (With inputs from agencies)

Democrats eye Kamala Harris’ political comeback in 2028 presidential run and bid for California governor

France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone.

The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of &nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis.

The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister.

Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade.

His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-ramshackle-housing-left-mayotte-exposed-to-cyclone-chidos-fury-784759">Also read:&nbsp;How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury</a>

French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau.

"In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people."

"I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital.

The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau.

On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget.

Watch |&nbsp;Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation

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'My responsibility'&nbsp;

But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris."

"Pau is in France," he argued.

"I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added.

Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France.

Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity.

Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said.

Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days".

In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads.

Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till&nbsp;his assassination in 1610.

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.

France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone.

France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone. The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis. The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister. Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade. His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm. Also read: How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau. "In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people." "I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital. The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau. On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget. Watch | Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation × 'My responsibility' But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris." "Pau is in France," he argued. "I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added. Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France. Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity. Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said. Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days". In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads. Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till his assassination in 1610. 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.

France's new PM faces criticism for chairing town hall meeting amid Mayotte cyclone tragedy

Iraqi security officials have issued a warning about an imminent mass jailbreak planned by the Islamic State, raising concerns over the safety and stability of the region. Authorities are on high alert as they prepare to thwart the escape attempt and prevent further escalation.

Syria: Islamic State Planning Mass Jailbreak, Warn Iraqi Security Officials

Iraqi security officials have issued a warning about an imminent mass jailbreak planned by the Islamic State, raising concerns over the safety and stability of the region. Authorities are on high alert as they prepare to thwart the escape attempt and prevent further escalation.



US President-elect Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit against the Des Moines Register newspaper and its top pollster, court documents showed, the day after he stepped up his legal threats against news outlets and said he would also consider suing social media influencers and others for defamation.

The lawsuit filed Monday night in Polk County seeks "accountability for brazen election interference committed by" the newspaper and pollster J. Ann Selzer over its poll published on Nov. 2. That poll showed Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris leading Trump by 13 percentage points in Iowa.

"Selzer’s polling 'miss' was not an astonishing coincidence—it was intentional," the lawsuit said. "As President Trump observed: 'She knew exactly what she was doing'."

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages and an order barring the Des Moines Register from engaging in "ongoing deceptive and misleading acts and practices" related to polling.

Gannett, parent company of the Des Moines Register, is also named in the suit. A Gannett representative said the organisation stands by its reporting and believes the suit is without merit.

In his remarks to reporters on Monday, Trump threatened to sue the Des Moines Register over the poll. "In my opinion, it was fraud and it was election interference," Trump said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mealy-mouth-politician-lies-and-more-desantis-and-haley-engage-in-verbal-battle-at-pre-iowa-debate-678851">Also read:&nbsp;'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate</a>

“It costs a lot of money to do it, but we have to straighten out the press,” Trump also told reporters.

Some legal experts say Trump's comments and legal actions risk chilling news coverage of the incoming administration even if legal protections for journalists are for now robust.

“There is some serious concern that the erosion of legal protections could lead to less aggressive news coverage,” said Syracuse University communications professor Roy Gutterman.

He pointed to the ABC settlement as a possible example of a news organization fearing retribution from the Trump administration, noting that the high cost of litigation could have also influenced the network’s decision.

On Dec. 14, Walt Disney-owned&nbsp;ABC News agreed to give $15 million to Trump’s presidential library to settle a lawsuit over comments that anchor George Stephanopoulos made on air.

The comments involved the civil cases brought against Trump by writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of sexually assaulting her at a New York department store in the 1990s.

Stephanopoulos said Trump was found liable for rape, but a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse. New York law distinguishes the two offenses.

Trump is appealing the jury verdict in that case and a judge's ruling in a related lawsuit brought by Carroll. 
An ABC News spokesperson said in a statement that the network was pleased that the parties reached an agreement to dismiss the lawsuit.

As part of the settlement, ABC agreed to publish an editor's note stating that the network and Stephanopoulos "regret statements regarding President Donald J. Trump" made during the interview in question.

On Monday, Trump also mentioned his lawsuit against CBS News over an interview with Harris that aired on its "60 Minutes" news programme in October. The lawsuit, which seeks $1 billion in damages, claimed that the interview had been deceptively edited.

CBS has said the suit is "completely without merit" and has asked a judge to dismiss the case.

Trump claimed on Monday that “60 Minutes” participated in ”fraud and election interference."

<h2>Targeting legal protections for journalists</h2>

Any lawsuits by Trump would still face steep hurdles in court because U.S. law has some of the strongest protections in the world for news coverage of public figures.

Longstanding legal precedent holds that public figures must prove defendants knew or strongly suspected something was false but said it anyway, a standard known as “actual malice” that is notoriously difficult to prove in court.

Trump has said this legal standard should be changed, and some U.S. Supreme Court justices have expressed willingness to reexamine the precedent.

“The standard remains a strong one, the strongest in the western world,” said Boston School of Law professor Jeffrey Pyle.

Even if lawsuits by Trump were to fail, they could create headaches for news organizations by publicly revealing potentially embarrassing internal communications and exposing journalists and executives to depositions.

In the ABC lawsuit, some legal experts said the network could have prevailed because Stephanopoulos' comments appeared to be an innocent mistake and not the type of reckless disregard that Trump would have to prove.

A judge denied ABC's motion to dismiss the case in July, rejecting the network's claim that it was broadly protected under Florida laws shielding news organizations from liability for accurate reporting on information received from government officials.

That order only concerned several initial legal questions and did not mean Trump would have ultimately won.

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&nbsp;audience.

US President-elect Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit against the Des Moines Register newspaper and its top pollster, court documents showed, the day after he stepped up his legal threats against news outlets and said he would also consider suing social media influencers and others for defamation.

US President-elect Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit against the Des Moines Register newspaper and its top pollster, court documents showed, the day after he stepped up his legal threats against news outlets and said he would also consider suing social media influencers and others for defamation. The lawsuit filed Monday night in Polk County seeks "accountability for brazen election interference committed by" the newspaper and pollster J. Ann Selzer over its poll published on Nov. 2. That poll showed Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris leading Trump by 13 percentage points in Iowa. "Selzer’s polling 'miss' was not an astonishing coincidence—it was intentional," the lawsuit said. "As President Trump observed: 'She knew exactly what she was doing'." The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages and an order barring the Des Moines Register from engaging in "ongoing deceptive and misleading acts and practices" related to polling. Gannett, parent company of the Des Moines Register, is also named in the suit. A Gannett representative said the organisation stands by its reporting and believes the suit is without merit. In his remarks to reporters on Monday, Trump threatened to sue the Des Moines Register over the poll. "In my opinion, it was fraud and it was election interference," Trump said. Also read: 'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate “It costs a lot of money to do it, but we have to straighten out the press,” Trump also told reporters. Some legal experts say Trump's comments and legal actions risk chilling news coverage of the incoming administration even if legal protections for journalists are for now robust. “There is some serious concern that the erosion of legal protections could lead to less aggressive news coverage,” said Syracuse University communications professor Roy Gutterman. He pointed to the ABC settlement as a possible example of a news organization fearing retribution from the Trump administration, noting that the high cost of litigation could have also influenced the network’s decision. On Dec. 14, Walt Disney-owned ABC News agreed to give $15 million to Trump’s presidential library to settle a lawsuit over comments that anchor George Stephanopoulos made on air. The comments involved the civil cases brought against Trump by writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of sexually assaulting her at a New York department store in the 1990s. Stephanopoulos said Trump was found liable for rape, but a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse. New York law distinguishes the two offenses. Trump is appealing the jury verdict in that case and a judge's ruling in a related lawsuit brought by Carroll. An ABC News spokesperson said in a statement that the network was pleased that the parties reached an agreement to dismiss the lawsuit. As part of the settlement, ABC agreed to publish an editor's note stating that the network and Stephanopoulos "regret statements regarding President Donald J. Trump" made during the interview in question. On Monday, Trump also mentioned his lawsuit against CBS News over an interview with Harris that aired on its "60 Minutes" news programme in October. The lawsuit, which seeks $1 billion in damages, claimed that the interview had been deceptively edited. CBS has said the suit is "completely without merit" and has asked a judge to dismiss the case. Trump claimed on Monday that “60 Minutes” participated in ”fraud and election interference." Targeting legal protections for journalists Any lawsuits by Trump would still face steep hurdles in court because U.S. law has some of the strongest protections in the world for news coverage of public figures. Longstanding legal precedent holds that public figures must prove defendants knew or strongly suspected something was false but said it anyway, a standard known as “actual malice” that is notoriously difficult to prove in court. Trump has said this legal standard should be changed, and some U.S. Supreme Court justices have expressed willingness to reexamine the precedent. “The standard remains a strong one, the strongest in the western world,” said Boston School of Law professor Jeffrey Pyle. Even if lawsuits by Trump were to fail, they could create headaches for news organizations by publicly revealing potentially embarrassing internal communications and exposing journalists and executives to depositions. In the ABC lawsuit, some legal experts said the network could have prevailed because Stephanopoulos' comments appeared to be an innocent mistake and not the type of reckless disregard that Trump would have to prove. A judge denied ABC's motion to dismiss the case in July, rejecting the network's claim that it was broadly protected under Florida laws shielding news organizations from liability for accurate reporting on information received from government officials. That order only concerned several initial legal questions and did not mean Trump would have ultimately won. 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.

Trump sues Des Moines Register and top pollster, vows more lawsuits against them

A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada.

The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17).

Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew."

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwimlNPNgK6KAxULbPUHHdHDIvk4FBDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-space-force-to-help-india-build-semiconductor-plant-761033" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-space-force-to-help-india-build-semiconductor-plant-761033&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimlNPNgK6KAxULbPUHHdHDIvk4FBDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ">US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant</a>

According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”.

As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody.

Watch:&nbsp;USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones

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She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission.

According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16).

A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada. The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17). Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew." The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process." Also read: US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”. As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody. Watch: USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones × She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission. According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian woman earlier held for stowing away to Paris now detained sneaking into Canada

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Trump sues Des Moines Register and top pollster, vows more lawsuits against them

Russian woman earlier held for stowing away to Paris now detained sneaking into Canada