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Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to spy on journalists and activists in the Balkan country, Amnesty International said in a report published Monday.&nbsp;

According to the report -- "A Digital Prison" -- Serbian authorities have deployed spyware that "provides Serbian authorities with extensive surveillance capabilities once installed on a target's device".

The report includes testimonies of a journalist and activist who accused authorities of covertly installing spyware on their devices while in custody and during an interview with officials.

"Our investigation reveals how Serbian authorities have deployed surveillance technology and digital repression tactics as instruments of wider state control and repression," said Dinushika Dissanayake, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for Europe.

The report highlights the use of the Cellebrite and NoviSpy software and forensic tools to target phones and devices belonging to members of civil society.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sentences-state-media-journalist-dong-yuyu-7-years-in-jail-over-spy-charges-780191">Also read:&nbsp;China sentences state media journalist Dong Yuyu for 7 years in jail on spy charges</a>

NoviSpy can be used to remotely turn on a phone's microphone or camera for recording and extracting sensitive personal data, according to Amnesty.

Cellebrite products are widely used by law enforcement agencies across the globe to unlock smartphones and search for evidence.&nbsp;

Belgrade-based youth activist Nikola Ristic -- who was profiled by Amnesty in the report -- told AFP his phone was hacked by authorities after being arrested at a protest in November over a deadly railway station roof collapse.&nbsp;

While in custody, Ristic said intelligence officials seized his phone and he was repeatedly told to unlock the device.

"Their behaviour and the conversation with me seemed like a charade, a cover for something else," he told AFP, adding that he did not have any compromising evidence or material stored on the phone.&nbsp;

After being released, Ristic later handed over his phone to Amnesty.&nbsp;

After a forensic scan, it found that Cellebrite had been used to unlock the device and NoviSpy spyware had been installed.&nbsp;

"We don't actually have agencies focused on the safety of citizens, but rather spy agencies," Ristic told AFP.

Serbia's intelligence agency (BIA) dismissed the Amnesty report's claims as "absurd".&nbsp;

In a separate statement, Serbian police said its forces only use forensic tools in accordance with the country's laws.&nbsp;

According to Amnesty, Serbia received the phone unlocking software from Cellebrite as part of a broader package aimed at helping the country meet the requirements for European Union integration.

Independent journalists and civil society groups in Serbia have long accused the government and its allies of targeting them with defamatory statements, lawsuits, and public threats.&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&nbsp;audience.

Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to spy on journalists and activists in the Balkan country, Amnesty International said in a report published Monday.

Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to spy on journalists and activists in the Balkan country, Amnesty International said in a report published Monday. According to the report -- "A Digital Prison" -- Serbian authorities have deployed spyware that "provides Serbian authorities with extensive surveillance capabilities once installed on a target's device". The report includes testimonies of a journalist and activist who accused authorities of covertly installing spyware on their devices while in custody and during an interview with officials. "Our investigation reveals how Serbian authorities have deployed surveillance technology and digital repression tactics as instruments of wider state control and repression," said Dinushika Dissanayake, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for Europe. The report highlights the use of the Cellebrite and NoviSpy software and forensic tools to target phones and devices belonging to members of civil society. Also read: China sentences state media journalist Dong Yuyu for 7 years in jail on spy charges NoviSpy can be used to remotely turn on a phone's microphone or camera for recording and extracting sensitive personal data, according to Amnesty. Cellebrite products are widely used by law enforcement agencies across the globe to unlock smartphones and search for evidence. Belgrade-based youth activist Nikola Ristic -- who was profiled by Amnesty in the report -- told AFP his phone was hacked by authorities after being arrested at a protest in November over a deadly railway station roof collapse. While in custody, Ristic said intelligence officials seized his phone and he was repeatedly told to unlock the device. "Their behaviour and the conversation with me seemed like a charade, a cover for something else," he told AFP, adding that he did not have any compromising evidence or material stored on the phone. After being released, Ristic later handed over his phone to Amnesty. After a forensic scan, it found that Cellebrite had been used to unlock the device and NoviSpy spyware had been installed. "We don't actually have agencies focused on the safety of citizens, but rather spy agencies," Ristic told AFP. Serbia's intelligence agency (BIA) dismissed the Amnesty report's claims as "absurd". In a separate statement, Serbian police said its forces only use forensic tools in accordance with the country's laws. According to Amnesty, Serbia received the phone unlocking software from Cellebrite as part of a broader package aimed at helping the country meet the requirements for European Union integration. Independent journalists and civil society groups in Serbia have long accused the government and its allies of targeting them with defamatory statements, lawsuits, and public threats. 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.

Serbia authorities using spyware to track journalists and activists, Amnesty claims

Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) approved a plan&nbsp;to "double" the population of the annexed Golan Heights. This comes as the country insists that it had no intention of confronting Syria after Israeli forces, acting on the orders of&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seized a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the wake of the ouster of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels.&nbsp;

The Israeli government, as per reports, has approved 40 million shekel ($11 million) for the expansion plan in Golan Heights.

<h2>Netanyahu defends population expansion plan</h2>

Israeli PM Netanyahu's office in a statement said that the government had "unanimously approved" the 40 million shekel ($11 million) plan "for the demographic development of the Golan... in light of the war and the new front in Syria and the desire to double the population".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-has-no-interest-in-confronting-syria-784226">Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria'</a>

Netanyahu called the plan "particularly important at this time" and said, "the strengthening of the Golan is that of the State of Israel."

"We will continue to establish ourselves there, develop it and settle there," he added.

<h2>Saudi, Qatar condemn Israel's Golan Heights&nbsp;plan</h2>

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have opposed the plan. Expressing "condemnation and denunciation" of the plan, Saudi foreign ministry called it part of the "continued sabotage of opportunities to restore security and stability in Syria".

Qatar said this was a "new episode in a series of Israeli aggressions on Syrian territories and a blatant violation of international law".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154" target="_blank">Israel strikes Syria overnight; rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation'</a>

With its strategic significance, the Golan Heights has long been a point of contention. Israel captured the territory during the 1967 war and annexed it in 1981. While most of the world considers it Syrian territory, the US broke ranks in 2019 by formally recognising Israel’s sovereignty over the area under then-president Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Sunday’s move follows previous efforts to expand the settler population. In 2021, a $317 million initiative was approved to double the number of Israelis living in the Golan within five years, though its implementation has been gradual.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) approved a plan to "double" the population of the annexed Golan Heights. This comes as the country insists that it had no intention of confronting Syria after Israeli forces, acting on the orders of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seized a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the wake of the ouster of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels.

Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) approved a plan to "double" the population of the annexed Golan Heights. This comes as the country insists that it had no intention of confronting Syria after Israeli forces, acting on the orders of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seized a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the wake of the ouster of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels. The Israeli government, as per reports, has approved 40 million shekel ($11 million) for the expansion plan in Golan Heights. Netanyahu defends population expansion plan Israeli PM Netanyahu's office in a statement said that the government had "unanimously approved" the 40 million shekel ($11 million) plan "for the demographic development of the Golan... in light of the war and the new front in Syria and the desire to double the population". Also read | Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria' Netanyahu called the plan "particularly important at this time" and said, "the strengthening of the Golan is that of the State of Israel." "We will continue to establish ourselves there, develop it and settle there," he added. Saudi, Qatar condemn Israel's Golan Heights plan Saudi Arabia and Qatar have opposed the plan. Expressing "condemnation and denunciation" of the plan, Saudi foreign ministry called it part of the "continued sabotage of opportunities to restore security and stability in Syria". Qatar said this was a "new episode in a series of Israeli aggressions on Syrian territories and a blatant violation of international law". Also read | Israel strikes Syria overnight; rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation' With its strategic significance, the Golan Heights has long been a point of contention. Israel captured the territory during the 1967 war and annexed it in 1981. While most of the world considers it Syrian territory, the US broke ranks in 2019 by formally recognising Israel’s sovereignty over the area under then-president Donald Trump. Sunday’s move follows previous efforts to expand the settler population. In 2021, a $317 million initiative was approved to double the number of Israelis living in the Golan within five years, though its implementation has been gradual. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions

Jerusalem
Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) approved a plan to "double" the population of the annexed Golan Heights. This comes as the country insists that it had no intention of confronting Syria after Israeli forces, acting on the orders of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seized a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the wake of the ouster of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels. 
The Israeli government, as per reports, has approved 40 million shekel ($11 million) for the expansion plan in Golan Heights.
<h2>Netanyahu defends population expansion plan</h2>
Israeli PM Netanyahu's office in a statement said that the government had "unanimously approved" the 40 million shekel ($11 million) plan "for the demographic development of the Golan... in light of the war and the new front in Syria and the desire to double the population".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-has-no-interest-in-confronting-syria-784226">Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria'</a>
Netanyahu called the plan "particularly important at this time" and said, "the strengthening of the Golan is that of the State of Israel."
"We will continue to establish ourselves there, develop it and settle there," he added.
<h2>Saudi, Qatar condemn Israel's Golan Heights plan</h2>
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have opposed the plan. Expressing "condemnation and denunciation" of the plan, Saudi foreign ministry called it part of the "continued sabotage of opportunities to restore security and stability in Syria".
Qatar said this was a "new episode in a series of Israeli aggressions on Syrian territories and a blatant violation of international law".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154" target="_blank">Israel strikes Syria overnight; rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation'</a>
With its strategic significance, the Golan Heights has long been a point of contention. Israel captured the territory during the 1967 war and annexed it in 1981. While most of the world considers it Syrian territory, the US broke ranks in 2019 by formally recognising Israel’s sovereignty over the area under then-president Donald Trump. 
Sunday’s move follows previous efforts to expand the settler population. In 2021, a $317 million initiative was approved to double the number of Israelis living in the Golan within five years, though its implementation has been gradual. 
(With inputs from agencies)
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.

The Israeli government, as per reports, has approved 40 million shekel ($11 million) for this population plan



Jerusalem Israel on Sunday (Dec 15) approved a plan to "double" the population of the annexed Golan Heights. This comes as the country insists that it had no intention of confronting Syria after Israeli forces, acting on the orders of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seized a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the wake of the ouster of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels. The Israeli government, as per reports, has approved 40 million shekel ($11 million) for the expansion plan in Golan Heights. Netanyahu defends population expansion plan Israeli PM Netanyahu's office in a statement said that the government had "unanimously approved" the 40 million shekel ($11 million) plan "for the demographic development of the Golan... in light of the war and the new front in Syria and the desire to double the population". Also read | Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria' Netanyahu called the plan "particularly important at this time" and said, "the strengthening of the Golan is that of the State of Israel." "We will continue to establish ourselves there, develop it and settle there," he added. Saudi, Qatar condemn Israel's Golan Heights plan Saudi Arabia and Qatar have opposed the plan. Expressing "condemnation and denunciation" of the plan, Saudi foreign ministry called it part of the "continued sabotage of opportunities to restore security and stability in Syria". Qatar said this was a "new episode in a series of Israeli aggressions on Syrian territories and a blatant violation of international law". Also read | Israel strikes Syria overnight; rebel leader warns of 'unwarranted escalation' With its strategic significance, the Golan Heights has long been a point of contention. Israel captured the territory during the 1967 war and annexed it in 1981. While most of the world considers it Syrian territory, the US broke ranks in 2019 by formally recognising Israel’s sovereignty over the area under then-president Donald Trump. Sunday’s move follows previous efforts to expand the settler population. In 2021, a $317 million initiative was approved to double the number of Israelis living in the Golan within five years, though its implementation has been gradual. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats.&nbsp;

In other news, ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in his first statement since his regime fell, said on Monday (December 16) that his departure to Russia was not “planned”.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-deputy-pm-chrystia-freeland-resigns-from-cabinet-over-clashes-with-trudeau-on-trumps-tariff-threats-784436">Canada's Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigns from Cabinet over disagreements with Trudeau on Trump's tariff threats</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/16/471496-untitled-design-4.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-part-of-the-plan-syrias-assad-breaks-silence-says-he-was-evacuated-to-russia-784421">'Not part of the plan,' Assad says Russia 'requested' immediate evacuation</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/08/470209-untitled-design-28.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in his first statement since his regime fell, said on Monday (December 16) that his departure to Russia was not “planned”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-loses-confidence-vote-early-election-set-for-february-23-784451">German Chancellor Scholz loses confidence vote, early election set for Feb 23</a>

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. This development has set the stage for an early general election scheduled for 23 February. In the German Bundestag, 394 deputies voted against Scholz, while 207 supported him. There were also 116 absentees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/16/471514-untitled-design-5.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-yang-tengbo-chinese-spy-with-ties-to-prince-andrew-unmasked-as-judge-lifts-anonymity-order-784445">Who is Yang Tengbo? Chinese ‘spy’ with ties to Prince Andrew unmasked</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/16/471501-00034n362f.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The alleged Chinese spy with connections to Prince Andrew and the UK establishment has been identified as Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, a businessman currently banned from entering Britain.

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As the probe in the Bengaluru techie suicide case continues, details have emerged that Nikita Singhania, the estranged wife of 34-year-old techie Atul Subhash, changed her location every day&nbsp;and made calls only on WhatsApp to not get caught by the police.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sri-lanka-ties-pm-modi-president-dissanayake-discuss-defence-trade-and-chinas-growing-influence-784385">India-Sri Lanka ties: PM Modi, President Dissanayake discuss defence, trade, and China's growing influence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/16/471460-pm-modi-meets-sri-lankan-president.png?imwidth=400" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday held extensive talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, focusing on further shoring up India-Sri Lankan cooperation in a range of areas, including defence, trade and investment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-indians-die-from-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-at-georgias-gudauri-mountain-resort-probe-underway-784438">11 Indians die from carbon monoxide poisoning at Georgia’s Gudauri mountain resort, probe underway</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/16/471495-geogia.png?imwidth=400" />

Eleven Indian nationals were found dead at a restaurant in Gudauri, a mountain resort in Georgia, according to a statement by the Indian embassy in Tbilisi.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-we-dont-as-a-team-jasprit-bumrah-defends-rest-of-india-bowlers-amid-poor-show-784437">BGT 2024-25: 'We don't as a team...,' Bumrah defends rest of India bowlers</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/16/471380-mixcollage-16-dec-2024-09-30-am-4506.jpg?imwidth=400" />

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has defended his fellow bowlers after poor show in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test series against Australia. Bumrah's comments come as Australia piled on 445 runs in third Test at the Gabba in the first innings with Bumrah taking 6/76 while others accounting for just four wickets for the remaining runs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/diljit-dosanjh-says-he-wont-do-any-concerts-in-india-heres-what-happened-784419">Diljit Dosanjh says he won't do any concerts in India, here's what happened</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/10/28/462956-your-paragraph-text-2024-10-28t160528323.jpg?imwidth=400" />

After making millions of people groove to his tunes, Diljit Dosanjh's DIL-Luminati tour is set to wrap up with the last show in Guwahati on December 29. Days before he's set to&nbsp;end his India tour, the singer sent shockwaves among&nbsp;his fans as he announced that he would not be performing any more shows in India until the infrastructure gets better.

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats.

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats. In other news, ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in his first statement since his regime fell, said on Monday (December 16) that his departure to Russia was not “planned”. Click on the headlines to read more Canada's Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigns from Cabinet over disagreements with Trudeau on Trump's tariff threats Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats. 'Not part of the plan,' Assad says Russia 'requested' immediate evacuation Ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, in his first statement since his regime fell, said on Monday (December 16) that his departure to Russia was not “planned”. German Chancellor Scholz loses confidence vote, early election set for Feb 23 German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. This development has set the stage for an early general election scheduled for 23 February. In the German Bundestag, 394 deputies voted against Scholz, while 207 supported him. There were also 116 absentees. Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Who is Yang Tengbo? Chinese ‘spy’ with ties to Prince Andrew unmasked The alleged Chinese spy with connections to Prince Andrew and the UK establishment has been identified as Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, a businessman currently banned from entering Britain. Bengaluru techie suicide: How one phone call helped police track down Nikita As the probe in the Bengaluru techie suicide case continues, details have emerged that Nikita Singhania, the estranged wife of 34-year-old techie Atul Subhash, changed her location every day and made calls only on WhatsApp to not get caught by the police. India-Sri Lanka ties: PM Modi, President Dissanayake discuss defence, trade, and China's growing influence Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday held extensive talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, focusing on further shoring up India-Sri Lankan cooperation in a range of areas, including defence, trade and investment. 11 Indians die from carbon monoxide poisoning at Georgia’s Gudauri mountain resort, probe underway Eleven Indian nationals were found dead at a restaurant in Gudauri, a mountain resort in Georgia, according to a statement by the Indian embassy in Tbilisi. BGT 2024-25: 'We don't as a team...,' Bumrah defends rest of India bowlers India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has defended his fellow bowlers after poor show in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test series against Australia. Bumrah's comments come as Australia piled on 445 runs in third Test at the Gabba in the first innings with Bumrah taking 6/76 while others accounting for just four wickets for the remaining runs. Diljit Dosanjh says he won't do any concerts in India, here's what happened After making millions of people groove to his tunes, Diljit Dosanjh's DIL-Luminati tour is set to wrap up with the last show in Guwahati on December 29. Days before he's set to end his India tour, the singer sent shockwaves among his fans as he announced that he would not be performing any more shows in India until the infrastructure gets better.

Top 10 world news: Canada's Deputy PM resigns; Syria's Assad says Russia 'requested' his evacuation, and more

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service.&nbsp;

They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border.

Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-russia-using-noticeable-number-of-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-assaults-784053">Also read:&nbsp;Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults</a>

Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war.&nbsp;

<h2>North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion'</h2>

The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion".&nbsp;

"Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk

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The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union.&nbsp;

They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction."

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the 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

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.

Ukraine's military agency on Monday (Dec 16) claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This comes as the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang has sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Pentagon and Ukraine have claimed that North Korean soldiers have been deployed to help Russia in its war with Ukraine. The North Korean units were involved in assaults on the weekend near three villages, according to Ukraine’s defence intelligence service. They added that three North Korean soldiers went missing during clashes near the villages of Pleskhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka close to the border. Meanwhile, earlier, a Ukrainian frontline drone unit posted a video on Sunday, showing the bodies of more than 20 North Korean soldiers lined up in an icy field. However, the quality of the video was not good enough to verify their identity, reported CNN. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that North Korean troops deployed to Kursk have been involved in the war. North Korea's involvement in war 'dangerous expansion' The US, ten other countries, and the EU, in a joint statement, called North Korea's growing involvement in Russia's war in Ukraine a "dangerous expansion". "Direct DPRK support for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security," the statement said, referring to North Korea by its official acronym. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Accuses Russia Of Deploying North Korean Troops In Kursk × The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the high representative of the European Union. They added that they were "deeply concerned about any political, military, or economic support that Russia may be providing to the DPRK's illegal weapons programmes, including weapons of mass destruction." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the 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 (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. This development has set the stage for an early general election scheduled for February 23. In the German Bundestag, 394 deputies voted against Scholz, while 207 supported him. There were also 116 absentees.

The Bundestag speaker, Bärbel Bas, said, “We have reached the end of our daily agenda, and also of the traffic light coalition,” referring to the now-collapsed three-way alliance.

The result of the vote enables President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to dissolve the Bundestag and formally call for new elections.

The vote followed a tense and heated debate where Chancellor Scholz laid out his plans for significant investments in security, business, and social welfare. However, the opposition criticised his delay in acting, asking, “Were you on another planet?”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-part-of-the-plan-syrias-assad-breaks-silence-says-he-was-evacuated-to-russia-784421">'Not part of the plan,' Assad says Russia 'requested' immediate evacuation</a>

Scholz defended his administration’s record, stating that his government had increased spending on Germany’s armed forces, which had been left “in a deplorable state” by previous CDU-led governments. “It is high time to invest powerfully and decisively in Germany,” Scholz added. “A highly armed nuclear power is waging war in Europe just two hours’ flight from here,” he warned.

Friedrich Merz, the opposition leader from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) accused Scholz of leaving Germany stuck in “one of the biggest economic crises of the postwar era”. He declared, “You had your chance, but you did not use it … You, Mr Scholz, do not deserve confidence.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-deputy-pm-chrystia-freeland-resigns-from-cabinet-over-clashes-with-trudeau-on-trumps-tariff-threats-784436">Canada's Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigns over disagreements with Trudeau</a>

Scholz’s political troubles began when his fragile three-party coalition fell apart on November 6, the same day Donald Trump won re-election in the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. This development has set the stage for an early general election scheduled for February 23.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. This development has set the stage for an early general election scheduled for February 23. In the German Bundestag, 394 deputies voted against Scholz, while 207 supported him. There were also 116 absentees. The Bundestag speaker, Bärbel Bas, said, “We have reached the end of our daily agenda, and also of the traffic light coalition,” referring to the now-collapsed three-way alliance. The result of the vote enables President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to dissolve the Bundestag and formally call for new elections. The vote followed a tense and heated debate where Chancellor Scholz laid out his plans for significant investments in security, business, and social welfare. However, the opposition criticised his delay in acting, asking, “Were you on another planet?” Also read: 'Not part of the plan,' Assad says Russia 'requested' immediate evacuation Scholz defended his administration’s record, stating that his government had increased spending on Germany’s armed forces, which had been left “in a deplorable state” by previous CDU-led governments. “It is high time to invest powerfully and decisively in Germany,” Scholz added. “A highly armed nuclear power is waging war in Europe just two hours’ flight from here,” he warned. Friedrich Merz, the opposition leader from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) accused Scholz of leaving Germany stuck in “one of the biggest economic crises of the postwar era”. He declared, “You had your chance, but you did not use it … You, Mr Scholz, do not deserve confidence.” Also read: Canada's Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigns over disagreements with Trudeau Scholz’s political troubles began when his fragile three-party coalition fell apart on November 6, the same day Donald Trump won re-election in the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz loses confidence vote, early election set for February 23

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, has defended his handling of a sexual abuse case, rejecting calls to resign. He stated he acted as soon as legally possible to suspend priest David Tudor in 2019 after fresh allegations emerged.

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, has defended his handling of a sexual abuse case, rejecting calls to resign. He stated he acted as soon as legally possible to suspend priest David Tudor in 2019 after fresh allegations emerged. Cottrell is set to take over temporary leadership of the Church of England in January following the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby. Welby stepped down after facing criticism for his failure to address abuse cases effectively, leaving the church embroiled in a deepening crisis. In a statement issued on Monday, Cottrell said, “I suspended David Tudor from office at the first opportunity when a new victim came forward to the police in 2019. Up until then, there were no legal grounds to take alternative action.” Victim's anguish and call for resignation The case resurfaced following a BBC investigation, which revealed that Tudor, despite allegations and restrictions, continued in ministry. Tudor had been banned from being alone with children since 2008 and was later compensated £10,000 by the church for past abuse. One victim said Cottrell’s inaction felt like being “spat in the face.” The Rt Rev Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Newcastle, has joined the chorus of voices demanding accountability. Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Hartley stated: “One archbishop has resigned over safeguarding failures, and now the remaining archbishop faces a serious issue that undermines trust. My personal view is that Stephen Cottrell cannot be the person to lead the urgent change needed." Legal constraints and accountability Cottrell defended his actions, stating, “It had not been possible to remove Tudor from office until fresh complaints emerged. Once this happened in 2019, I acted immediately.” Church sources backed Cottrell, citing “clear and consistent legal advice” that prevented earlier action. Tudor has not responded to the recent allegations or the BBC investigation. Leadership crisis looms As Stephen Cottrell prepares to assume leadership of the Church of England, calls for reform grow louder. Hartley criticised the church’s entrenched “old boys’ club” culture, arguing that only radical change can restore trust. The ongoing crises highlight a pivotal moment for the Church of England as it grapples with safeguarding failures and the need for accountability in its highest ranks. (With inputs from agencies)

Archbishop of York defends handling of sexual abuse case, rejects demands to resign

The death toll from people drinking tainted alcohol in Istanbul jumped to 37, the governor's office said Monday. "Thirty-seven people died, and 17 others are still receiving treatment" over a period of six weeks, the governor's office said.

The death toll from people drinking tainted alcohol in Istanbul jumped to 37, the governor's office said Monday. "Thirty-seven people died, and 17 others are still receiving treatment" over a period of six weeks, the governor's office said. It said a total of 77 people had been poisoned since November 1, 23 of whom had been treated and discharged. On December 4, Turkish media said 17 people had died from drinking tainted alcohol in Istanbul, while 22 others were being treated in hospital. Alcohol tainted with methanol is thought to be the cause, methanol being a toxic substance that can be added to liquor to increase its potency but which can cause blindness, liver damage, and death. Poisonings from adulterated alcohol are quite common in Turkey, where private production has exploded as authorities have cranked up taxes on alcoholic drinks. The most commonly faked product is raki, Turkey's aniseed-flavoured national beverage, whose price has shot up to around 1,300 lira ($37.20) a litre in supermarkets. The minimum wage in Turkey is 17,000 lira ($489) a month. The authorities also fined 32 businesses for supplying fake alcohol, hitting them with a collective fine of 2.6 million Turkish lira ($76,200). The governor's office said police had arrested 14 people in connection with supplying the tainted alcohol and seized 14,701 bottles of suspect liquor. Read More: Seven foreign tourists hospitalised after drinking cocktail in Fiji Turkey's authoritarian President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has been accused of trying to Islamise society in the officially secular state, has often criticised the consumption of alcohol and tobacco. At the end of 2021, at least 25 people died over the space of a few days in several different regions. A year before that, around 40 people died of alcohol poisoning. 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.

Governor: Istanbul death toll from tainted alcohol jumps to 37

The alleged Chinese spy with connections to Prince Andrew and the UK establishment has been identified as Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, a businessman currently banned from entering Britain.

The alleged Chinese spy with connections to Prince Andrew and the UK establishment has been identified as Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, a businessman currently banned from entering Britain. Who is Yang Tengbo? Yang, previously referred to as H6 until a High Court judge lifted an anonymity order on Monday (December 16), has denied all allegations. In a statement, he said, “I have done nothing wrong or unlawful, and the concerns raised by the Home Office against me are ill-founded.” He denied being a spy. Yang, 50, formerly chaired the Hampton Group and lived in the UK for nearly two decades. He first arrived in Britain in 2002 as a student, having previously worked as a civil servant in China. In the UK, he founded Hampton Group International, a consultancy firm aimed at fostering relations between China and Britain. He also co-founded Pitch@Palace China, the Chinese branch of the Duke of York’s initiative to support entrepreneurs. The case against Yang began in 2021 when counter-terrorism officers stopped him and confiscated his devices. He was formally barred from the UK in 2023 by then-Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who accused him of engaging in “covert and deceptive activity” on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Also read: Canada's Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigns over clashes with Trudeau Last week, the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) upheld the ban, ruling that Braverman was “entitled to conclude” Yang posed a risk to national security. The judges cited his “unusual degree of trust” gained from a senior royal. Details of his close ties with Prince Andrew were revealed in the SIAC ruling, where it was revealed that Yang attended royal events, including Andrew’s birthday party. The tribunal heard allegations that Yang was linked to China’s United Front Work Department, an organisation tasked with gathering intelligence and influencing prominent overseas nationals. In his witness statement, Yang was said to have “downplayed his links” with the group. Prince Andrew’s office addressed the matter last week, stating that all contact with Yang had ceased. A spokesperson clarified that their meetings took place through “official channels” and that “nothing of a sensitive nature [was] ever discussed.” Yang voiced his devastation at being barred from Britain, which he considers his “second home.” He said there had been a “high level of speculation and misreporting in the media and elsewhere” and confirmed his intention to appeal the decision. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Yang Tengbo? Chinese ‘spy’ with ties to Prince Andrew unmasked as judge lifts anonymity order

The Israeli government approved a plan to increase the population of the annexed Golan Heights while insisting it had no intention of confronting Syria after seizing a UN-monitored buffer zone.

Israel Aims to 'Double' Golan Heights' Population

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed holding a phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, during which he reaffirmed his country’s ‘determination’ to continue acting against Iran and its armed proxies, CNN reported.

Netanyahu said in the video message that he had a “very friendly, very warm, and very important conversation” on Saturday (local time) and told about the need for Israel to “complete its victory.”

The leaders also spoke of the need to bring home the remaining hostages in Gaza.

Hamas carried out a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7 killing over 1200 people and holding over 250 as hostages. Around 100 of them are still believed to be in captivity in Gaza.

Israel launched a strong counter-offensive targeting Hamas units in Gaza in an operation that has killed over 45,000 Palestinians.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-has-no-interest-in-confronting-syria-784226">Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria'</a>

“I discussed all of this again last night with my friend, US President-elect Donald Trump,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

“It was a very friendly, very warm and very important conversation. We spoke about the need to complete Israel’s victory, and we also spoke at length about the efforts we are making to free our hostages,” he said as quoted by CNN.

Netanyahu said that Israel continues to “work tirelessly to bring our hostages home, both the living and the dead. And I add, the less we talk about it, the better, and so with God’s help, we will succeed.”

On Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister took to social media platform X and strongly affirmed that they would “change” the Middle East.

“I said we would change the Middle East and this is what is happening. Syria is not the same as Syria. Lebanon is not the same as Lebanon. Gaza is not the same as Gaza. Iran is not the same Iran,” Netanyahu said in a post on X.

“We are committed to preventing Hezbollah from rearming,” he said. “This is an ongoing test for Israel, we must meet it – and we will meet it. I say to Hezbollah and Iran in no uncertain terms – to prevent you from harming us, we will continue to act against you as much as necessary, in every arena and at all times,” as per Times of Israel.

Watch:&nbsp;Netanyahu Testifies in Corruption Trial

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-testifies-in-corruption-trial-783837/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Since the rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew the over two-decades-long Bashar al-Assad regime on December 8, Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes across Syria and carried out a land incursion that stretches past the occupied Golan Heights into a previously demilitarized buffer zone, as reported by The Washington Post.

The Israeli army swiftly took control of the abandoned army positions, and air attacks have decimated most of Syria’s military capabilities.

Netanyahu reiterated that recent airstrikes against Syrian military sites were carried out to ensure that the weapons would not be used against Israel in the future. Israel also hit arms supply routes to Hezbollah, he said, according to Times of Israel.

“We have no interest in a conflict with Syria,” Netanyahu said. “We will determine Israel’s policy toward Syria according to the emerging reality on the ground.”

Netanyahu has said that Israel has “no intention of interfering” in Syria’s internal affairs but also warned to take “necessary” measures if the current regime allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria or transfer weapons to Hezbollah.&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&nbsp;audience.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed holding a phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, during which he reaffirmed his country’s ‘determination’ to continue acting against Iran and its armed proxies, CNN reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed holding a phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, during which he reaffirmed his country’s ‘determination’ to continue acting against Iran and its armed proxies, CNN reported. Netanyahu said in the video message that he had a “very friendly, very warm, and very important conversation” on Saturday (local time) and told about the need for Israel to “complete its victory.” The leaders also spoke of the need to bring home the remaining hostages in Gaza. Hamas carried out a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7 killing over 1200 people and holding over 250 as hostages. Around 100 of them are still believed to be in captivity in Gaza. Israel launched a strong counter-offensive targeting Hamas units in Gaza in an operation that has killed over 45,000 Palestinians. Also Read: Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria' “I discussed all of this again last night with my friend, US President-elect Donald Trump,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “It was a very friendly, very warm and very important conversation. We spoke about the need to complete Israel’s victory, and we also spoke at length about the efforts we are making to free our hostages,” he said as quoted by CNN. Netanyahu said that Israel continues to “work tirelessly to bring our hostages home, both the living and the dead. And I add, the less we talk about it, the better, and so with God’s help, we will succeed.” On Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister took to social media platform X and strongly affirmed that they would “change” the Middle East. “I said we would change the Middle East and this is what is happening. Syria is not the same as Syria. Lebanon is not the same as Lebanon. Gaza is not the same as Gaza. Iran is not the same Iran,” Netanyahu said in a post on X. “We are committed to preventing Hezbollah from rearming,” he said. “This is an ongoing test for Israel, we must meet it – and we will meet it. I say to Hezbollah and Iran in no uncertain terms – to prevent you from harming us, we will continue to act against you as much as necessary, in every arena and at all times,” as per Times of Israel. Watch: Netanyahu Testifies in Corruption Trial Since the rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew the over two-decades-long Bashar al-Assad regime on December 8, Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes across Syria and carried out a land incursion that stretches past the occupied Golan Heights into a previously demilitarized buffer zone, as reported by The Washington Post. The Israeli army swiftly took control of the abandoned army positions, and air attacks have decimated most of Syria’s military capabilities. Netanyahu reiterated that recent airstrikes against Syrian military sites were carried out to ensure that the weapons would not be used against Israel in the future. Israel also hit arms supply routes to Hezbollah, he said, according to Times of Israel. “We have no interest in a conflict with Syria,” Netanyahu said. “We will determine Israel’s policy toward Syria according to the emerging reality on the ground.” Netanyahu has said that Israel has “no intention of interfering” in Syria’s internal affairs but also warned to take “necessary” measures if the current regime allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria or transfer weapons to Hezbollah. 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.

Netanyahu says held 'very warm' phone call with US president-elect Trump

Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed holding a phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, during which he reaffirmed his country’s ‘determination’ to continue acting against Iran and its armed proxies, CNN reported.
Netanyahu said in the video message that he had a “very friendly, very warm, and very important conversation” on Saturday (local time) and told about the need for Israel to “complete its victory.”
The leaders also spoke of the need to bring home the remaining hostages in Gaza.
Hamas carried out a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7 killing over 1200 people and holding over 250 as hostages. Around 100 of them are still believed to be in captivity in Gaza.
Israel launched a strong counter-offensive targeting Hamas units in Gaza in an operation that has killed over 45,000 Palestinians.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-has-no-interest-in-confronting-syria-784226">Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria'</a>
“I discussed all of this again last night with my friend, US President-elect Donald Trump,” Netanyahu said in a statement.
“It was a very friendly, very warm and very important conversation. We spoke about the need to complete Israel’s victory, and we also spoke at length about the efforts we are making to free our hostages,” he said as quoted by CNN.
Netanyahu said that Israel continues to “work tirelessly to bring our hostages home, both the living and the dead. And I add, the less we talk about it, the better, and so with God’s help, we will succeed.”
On Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister took to social media platform X and strongly affirmed that they would “change” the Middle East.
“I said we would change the Middle East and this is what is happening. Syria is not the same as Syria. Lebanon is not the same as Lebanon. Gaza is not the same as Gaza. Iran is not the same Iran,” Netanyahu said in a post on X.
“We are committed to preventing Hezbollah from rearming,” he said. “This is an ongoing test for Israel, we must meet it – and we will meet it. I say to Hezbollah and Iran in no uncertain terms – to prevent you from harming us, we will continue to act against you as much as necessary, in every arena and at all times,” as per Times of Israel.
Watch: Netanyahu Testifies in Corruption Trial
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Since the rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew the over two-decades-long Bashar al-Assad regime on December 8, Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes across Syria and carried out a land incursion that stretches past the occupied Golan Heights into a previously demilitarized buffer zone, as reported by The Washington Post.
The Israeli army swiftly took control of the abandoned army positions, and air attacks have decimated most of Syria’s military capabilities.
Netanyahu reiterated that recent airstrikes against Syrian military sites were carried out to ensure that the weapons would not be used against Israel in the future. Israel also hit arms supply routes to Hezbollah, he said, according to Times of Israel.
“We have no interest in a conflict with Syria,” Netanyahu said. “We will determine Israel’s policy toward Syria according to the emerging reality on the ground.”
Netanyahu has said that Israel has “no intention of interfering” in Syria’s internal affairs but also warned to take “necessary” measures if the current regime allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria or transfer weapons to Hezbollah. 
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.

Netanyahu said in the video message that he had a “very friendly, very warm, and very important conversation” on Saturday (local time) and told about the need for Israel to “complete its victory" 



Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed holding a phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, during which he reaffirmed his country’s ‘determination’ to continue acting against Iran and its armed proxies, CNN reported. Netanyahu said in the video message that he had a “very friendly, very warm, and very important conversation” on Saturday (local time) and told about the need for Israel to “complete its victory.” The leaders also spoke of the need to bring home the remaining hostages in Gaza. Hamas carried out a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7 killing over 1200 people and holding over 250 as hostages. Around 100 of them are still believed to be in captivity in Gaza. Israel launched a strong counter-offensive targeting Hamas units in Gaza in an operation that has killed over 45,000 Palestinians. Also Read: Netanyahu says Israel has 'no interest in confronting Syria' “I discussed all of this again last night with my friend, US President-elect Donald Trump,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “It was a very friendly, very warm and very important conversation. We spoke about the need to complete Israel’s victory, and we also spoke at length about the efforts we are making to free our hostages,” he said as quoted by CNN. Netanyahu said that Israel continues to “work tirelessly to bring our hostages home, both the living and the dead. And I add, the less we talk about it, the better, and so with God’s help, we will succeed.” On Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister took to social media platform X and strongly affirmed that they would “change” the Middle East. “I said we would change the Middle East and this is what is happening. Syria is not the same as Syria. Lebanon is not the same as Lebanon. Gaza is not the same as Gaza. Iran is not the same Iran,” Netanyahu said in a post on X. “We are committed to preventing Hezbollah from rearming,” he said. “This is an ongoing test for Israel, we must meet it – and we will meet it. I say to Hezbollah and Iran in no uncertain terms – to prevent you from harming us, we will continue to act against you as much as necessary, in every arena and at all times,” as per Times of Israel. Watch: Netanyahu Testifies in Corruption Trial Since the rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew the over two-decades-long Bashar al-Assad regime on December 8, Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes across Syria and carried out a land incursion that stretches past the occupied Golan Heights into a previously demilitarized buffer zone, as reported by The Washington Post. The Israeli army swiftly took control of the abandoned army positions, and air attacks have decimated most of Syria’s military capabilities. Netanyahu reiterated that recent airstrikes against Syrian military sites were carried out to ensure that the weapons would not be used against Israel in the future. Israel also hit arms supply routes to Hezbollah, he said, according to Times of Israel. “We have no interest in a conflict with Syria,” Netanyahu said. “We will determine Israel’s policy toward Syria according to the emerging reality on the ground.” Netanyahu has said that Israel has “no intention of interfering” in Syria’s internal affairs but also warned to take “necessary” measures if the current regime allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria or transfer weapons to Hezbollah. 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.

Prince Andrew said he has “ceased all contact” with the businessman accused of being a Chinese spy after receiving advice from the Government. Watch this report for more details!

Prince Andrew Defends Ties To 'H6', Says Has 'Ceased All Contacts'

Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century.

Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water.

With areas still inaccessible, France's acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said on arrival in the disaster zone that it would take days to find the full extent of damage and deaths.

"The images are apocalyptic. It's a disaster, there's nothing left," an intensive care nurse named Oceane at the main hospital in the capital Mamoudzou told BFM TV.

Teacher Hamada Ali told Reuters that streets were covered in mud and trees, people were sheltering in schools and bottled water was being used for cooking.

"I saw someone injured by a sheet of metal ... Houses with sheet metal roofs were swept away by the cyclone. There are precarious dwellings of which we cannot see the slightest trace," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/definitely-several-hundred-killed-after-cyclone-chido-wreaks-havoc-in-mayotte-784223">'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte</a>

Residents queued outside grocery stores in search of water and other basics.

Communications were down in large parts of the territory, leaving relatives outside desperately enquiring on social media. "I need an update from Chiconi please, my brother, my sister-in-law and my niece are there and I'm without any news since Saturday," said one.

French President Emmanuel Macron was to hold an emergency meeting about Mayotte later on Monday. Acting health minister Genevieve Darrieussecq said Mamoudzou's main hospital was maintaining operations after floodwaters had been cleared while a field clinic would be set up and 100 additional medics deployed.

More than three-quarters of Mayotte's 321,000 people live in relative poverty. According to 2021 figures from statistics agency INSEE, Mayotte has an annual median disposable income of just over 3,000 euros ($3,150) per inhabitant, roughly eight times less than the Ile-de-France region around Paris.

<h2>Biggest storm in 90 years</h2>

The islands, close to the Comoros archipelago, first came under France's control in 1841. Mayotte is made up of two main islands over an area about twice the size of Washington DC.

It has been grappling with unrest in recent years, with many residents angry at undocumented immigration and inflation.

The territory has become a stronghold for the far-right National Rally with 60% voting for Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff.

Chido was the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in more than 90 years, French weather service Meteo France said.

Extreme weather events have become more common around the globe, in keeping with global warming. Poorer nations often say they are bearing the brunt of the environmental crisis despite historically emitting far less CO2 than richer countries.

"It was evident that ... when a cyclone hit ... we would find ourselves in a situation," leftwing lawmaker Eric Coquerel told French broadcaster LCI, saying the destruction in Mayotte laid bare a failure to prepare for the impact of climate change.

Around the territory, hundreds of makeshift houses were smashed and scattered, according to images from local media and the French gendarmerie. Coconut trees crashed through building roofs, boats were upended, rubble covered cars and people cowered under tables when the cyclone hit.

"I was screaming because I could see the end coming for me," John Balloz, who lives in the capital Mamoudzou, told Reuters.

After Mayotte, Chido made landfall in north Mozambique where it quickly weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm on Sunday but still destroyed several houses, authorities said.

The prefect of Mayotte, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, said at the weekend that deaths would definitely be in the hundreds and possibly several thousand.

Maritime and aerial operations were underway to transport relief supplies and equipment, including from Reunion Island, another French overseas territory, French authorities said.

Mayotte's main airport, however, remained closed to civilian flights on Monday morning, said Jean-Paul Bosland, the president of France's national firefighters' federation.

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.

Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century.

Emergency workers sought survivors on Monday and struggled to restore services in Mayotte, France's poorest overseas territory, where hundreds or even thousands are feared dead from the worst cyclone to hit the Indian Ocean islands in nearly a century. Cyclone Chido devastated large parts of the archipelago off east Africa over the weekend with winds of more than 200 kph (124 mph), strewing homes over hillsides, and cutting phones, power and drinking water. With areas still inaccessible, France's acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said on arrival in the disaster zone that it would take days to find the full extent of damage and deaths. "The images are apocalyptic. It's a disaster, there's nothing left," an intensive care nurse named Oceane at the main hospital in the capital Mamoudzou told BFM TV. Teacher Hamada Ali told Reuters that streets were covered in mud and trees, people were sheltering in schools and bottled water was being used for cooking. "I saw someone injured by a sheet of metal ... Houses with sheet metal roofs were swept away by the cyclone. There are precarious dwellings of which we cannot see the slightest trace," he added. Also read | 'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte Residents queued outside grocery stores in search of water and other basics. Communications were down in large parts of the territory, leaving relatives outside desperately enquiring on social media. "I need an update from Chiconi please, my brother, my sister-in-law and my niece are there and I'm without any news since Saturday," said one. French President Emmanuel Macron was to hold an emergency meeting about Mayotte later on Monday. Acting health minister Genevieve Darrieussecq said Mamoudzou's main hospital was maintaining operations after floodwaters had been cleared while a field clinic would be set up and 100 additional medics deployed. More than three-quarters of Mayotte's 321,000 people live in relative poverty. According to 2021 figures from statistics agency INSEE, Mayotte has an annual median disposable income of just over 3,000 euros ($3,150) per inhabitant, roughly eight times less than the Ile-de-France region around Paris. Biggest storm in 90 years The islands, close to the Comoros archipelago, first came under France's control in 1841. Mayotte is made up of two main islands over an area about twice the size of Washington DC. It has been grappling with unrest in recent years, with many residents angry at undocumented immigration and inflation. The territory has become a stronghold for the far-right National Rally with 60% voting for Marine Le Pen in the 2022 presidential election runoff. Chido was the strongest storm to strike Mayotte in more than 90 years, French weather service Meteo France said. Extreme weather events have become more common around the globe, in keeping with global warming. Poorer nations often say they are bearing the brunt of the environmental crisis despite historically emitting far less CO2 than richer countries. "It was evident that ... when a cyclone hit ... we would find ourselves in a situation," leftwing lawmaker Eric Coquerel told French broadcaster LCI, saying the destruction in Mayotte laid bare a failure to prepare for the impact of climate change. Around the territory, hundreds of makeshift houses were smashed and scattered, according to images from local media and the French gendarmerie. Coconut trees crashed through building roofs, boats were upended, rubble covered cars and people cowered under tables when the cyclone hit. "I was screaming because I could see the end coming for me," John Balloz, who lives in the capital Mamoudzou, told Reuters. After Mayotte, Chido made landfall in north Mozambique where it quickly weakened and was reclassified as a tropical storm on Sunday but still destroyed several houses, authorities said. The prefect of Mayotte, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, said at the weekend that deaths would definitely be in the hundreds and possibly several thousand. Maritime and aerial operations were underway to transport relief supplies and equipment, including from Reunion Island, another French overseas territory, French authorities said. Mayotte's main airport, however, remained closed to civilian flights on Monday morning, said Jean-Paul Bosland, the president of France's national firefighters' federation. 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.

Cyclone Chido: Thousands feared dead after worst cyclone in 90 years hits Mayotte

The head of South Korea's ruling party Hang Dong-hoon resigned on Monday following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over the weekend. Watch this report for more details!

South Korea's Ruling Party Leader Resigns After Yoon Impeachment

Eleven Indian nationals were found dead at a restaurant in Gudauri, a mountain resort in Georgia, according to a statement by the Indian embassy in Tbilisi. Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that an initial inspection revealed no signs of injuries or violence.

Eleven Indian nationals were found dead at a restaurant in Gudauri, a mountain resort in Georgia, according to a statement by the Indian embassy in Tbilisi. Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that an initial inspection revealed no signs of injuries or violence. Local media, citing police reports, said all victims died due to carbon monoxide poisoning. In a statement, the Indian embassy expressed its grief over the incident: “The Embassy of India in Tbilisi is saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of eleven Indian nationals in Gudauri, Georgia, and extends its deepest condolences to their families. The Embassy is working closely with local authorities to facilitate the prompt repatriation of the mortal remains to India. We are also in contact with the bereaved families and are committed to providing all possible support.” Also read: 80 lakh SIM cards deactivated: India's uses AI tools to tackle cybercrime Initially, the embassy had reported 12 victims were Indian nationals. However, Georgia’s internal affairs ministry clarified that 11 were foreigners, while one victim was a Georgian citizen. This was later confirmed by the Indian embassy. The police have launched an investigation under Article 116 of the Georgian Criminal Code, which concerns negligent manslaughter. Preliminary findings suggest that a power generator was placed in an enclosed space near the bedrooms. It is believed the generator was switched on, likely after a power outage on Friday night, which led to the carbon monoxide poisoning. A forensic medical examination has been called to confirm the “exact cause of death.” Gudauri, located in the Caucasus Mountains in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, is a well-known tourist destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Positioned at an altitude of approximately 2,200 metres (7,200 feet), it is about 120 kilometres (75 miles) north of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi. The resort, which dates back to the 19th century, was historically a trading post along the Georgian Military Road, connecting Russia and Georgia. (With inputs from agencies)

11 Indians die from carbon monoxide poisoning at Georgia’s Gudauri mountain resort, probe underway

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats.&nbsp;

In a statement shared on X, Freeland, who is also Canada's Finance Minister, stressed that the country is facing a grave challenge with the incoming Trump administration and their tariff threats.&nbsp;

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Referring to Canadian PM Trudeau, she said, "For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada."

Watch |&nbsp;Trump's Tariffs: A Trade Gamble With Mexico &amp; Canada | GRAVITAS

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'Country today faces grave challenge'

"Our country today faces a grave challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 per cent tariffs," the Deputy PM said.&nbsp;

She stressed, "We need to take that threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war."

Freeland added, "That means pushing back against 'America First' economic nationalism" with a determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guv-justin-trudeau-of-canada-trump-mocks-canadian-pm-amid-tariff-threat-782932">Also read:&nbsp;'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat</a>

She further mentioned that PM Trudeau told her on Friday that he does not want her to serve as finance minister and offered her another position in the Cabinet.

"Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet," she said.

Freeland was first elected to parliament in 2013, however, she joined Trudeau's cabinet two years later when the Liberals swept to power.&nbsp;

The Canadian deputy PM announced her resignation just hours before she was due to deliver a fiscal and economic update in parliament, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

It still remains unclear whether that document will be released or not. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada's Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday (Dec 16) announced her resignation from the cabinet over disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Ottawa's response to US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats. In a statement shared on X, Freeland, who is also Canada's Finance Minister, stressed that the country is facing a grave challenge with the incoming Trump administration and their tariff threats. See my letter to the Prime Minister below // Veuillez trouver ma lettre au Premier ministre ci-dessous pic.twitter.com/NMMMcXUh7A — Chrystia Freeland (@cafreeland) December 16, 2024 × Referring to Canadian PM Trudeau, she said, "For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada." Watch | Trump's Tariffs: A Trade Gamble With Mexico & Canada | GRAVITAS × 'Country today faces grave challenge' "Our country today faces a grave challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 per cent tariffs," the Deputy PM said. She stressed, "We need to take that threat extremely seriously. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war." Freeland added, "That means pushing back against 'America First' economic nationalism" with a determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring. Also read: 'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat She further mentioned that PM Trudeau told her on Friday that he does not want her to serve as finance minister and offered her another position in the Cabinet. "Upon reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet," she said. Freeland was first elected to parliament in 2013, however, she joined Trudeau's cabinet two years later when the Liberals swept to power. The Canadian deputy PM announced her resignation just hours before she was due to deliver a fiscal and economic update in parliament, Bloomberg reported. It still remains unclear whether that document will be released or not. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada's Deputy PM Freeland resigns over disagreements with Trudeau, says country facing grave challenge

In US there is a growing concern over a series of mysterious drone sightings the Biden administration is saying it is probing the sightings... But from mystery, these drones are now becoming a national security issue...Now lawmakers from Biden's party too want clear answers from white house...While trump team wants an iron dome to protect American skies from the drone menace...

USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was discharged Sunday from a Sao Paulo hospital following emergency surgery to treat an intracranial haemorrhage.

"I am here in one piece... returning home calmly," the 79-year-old leftist leader said as he made a surprise appearance at a news conference by his medical team at Hospital Sirio-Libanes.

He later smiled and waved to reporters as he left the hospital.

Lula had successful surgery Tuesday, in which doctors drilled through his skull to relieve the pressure that built up after a blow to the head in October when he fell in a bathroom in his presidential residence in the capital Brasilia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>

On Thursday, he underwent a follow-up operation to minimize the risk of further bleeding in the affected area of the protective intracranial membranes.&nbsp;

The president can resume activities but will need to take it easy for 15 days, cardiologist Roberto Kalil said at the news conference.

Lula will remain in São Paulo until Thursday, when he will undergo follow-up tests. Once cleared, he will be able to return to Brasilia and his normal routine.

"The only restriction is physical exercise," said Kalil.

Another doctor, Ana Helena Germoglio, said Lula's recovery has "exceeded expectations."

Known for his frenetic work pace, Lula burst into the news conference Sunday without warning and approached the microphones, walking unassisted.

He addressed reporters while wearing a fedora-style hat that covered up signs of his operations, accompanied by his wife Rosangela "Janja" da Silva.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-breaks-silence-labels-yoon-a-ringleader-of-rebellion-amid-south-koreas-political-crisis-784247">North Korea breaks silence, labels Yoon a 'ringleader of rebellion' amid South Korea's political crisis</a>

Lula's medical emergency started when he complained last Monday of a headache while in Brasilia.&nbsp;

"I felt like my steps were slowing down, my eyes were red and I was very sleepy," he said.

An MRI scan found a haemorrhage between his brain and the dura mater membrane that protects it, prompting his swift transport to Hospital Sirio-Libanes -- the country's top medical facility -- for surgery.

"I confess I was scared by the volume of fluid growth in my head. I was worried by the urgency of the request" to go to the hospital, he said.

"I never think I'm going to die, but I'm scared, so I need to follow the rules," Lula said, adding that he will not go to the beach for the end-of-year holidays, as many Brazilians do.

"I'm going home now," he told reporters, "calm, sure that I'm cured and that I just need to take care of myself."&nbsp;

After suffering his fall on October 19, Lula had told an official from his Workers' Party that the accident was "serious."

In the weeks following, the president skipped planned overseas trips. But from mid-November he resumed his active schedule, hosting a G20 summit in Rio and attending a Mercosur summit in Uruguay.

The latest medical emergency adds to a list of health problems Lula has suffered over the years, including treatment in 2011 for throat cancer, and a hip replacement operation last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was discharged Sunday from a Sao Paulo hospital following emergency surgery to treat an intracranial haemorrhage. "I am here in one piece.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was discharged Sunday from a Sao Paulo hospital following emergency surgery to treat an intracranial haemorrhage. "I am here in one piece... returning home calmly," the 79-year-old leftist leader said as he made a surprise appearance at a news conference by his medical team at Hospital Sirio-Libanes. He later smiled and waved to reporters as he left the hospital. Lula had successful surgery Tuesday, in which doctors drilled through his skull to relieve the pressure that built up after a blow to the head in October when he fell in a bathroom in his presidential residence in the capital Brasilia. Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions On Thursday, he underwent a follow-up operation to minimize the risk of further bleeding in the affected area of the protective intracranial membranes. The president can resume activities but will need to take it easy for 15 days, cardiologist Roberto Kalil said at the news conference. Lula will remain in São Paulo until Thursday, when he will undergo follow-up tests. Once cleared, he will be able to return to Brasilia and his normal routine. "The only restriction is physical exercise," said Kalil. Another doctor, Ana Helena Germoglio, said Lula's recovery has "exceeded expectations." Known for his frenetic work pace, Lula burst into the news conference Sunday without warning and approached the microphones, walking unassisted. He addressed reporters while wearing a fedora-style hat that covered up signs of his operations, accompanied by his wife Rosangela "Janja" da Silva. Also read | North Korea breaks silence, labels Yoon a 'ringleader of rebellion' amid South Korea's political crisis Lula's medical emergency started when he complained last Monday of a headache while in Brasilia. "I felt like my steps were slowing down, my eyes were red and I was very sleepy," he said. An MRI scan found a haemorrhage between his brain and the dura mater membrane that protects it, prompting his swift transport to Hospital Sirio-Libanes -- the country's top medical facility -- for surgery. "I confess I was scared by the volume of fluid growth in my head. I was worried by the urgency of the request" to go to the hospital, he said. "I never think I'm going to die, but I'm scared, so I need to follow the rules," Lula said, adding that he will not go to the beach for the end-of-year holidays, as many Brazilians do. "I'm going home now," he told reporters, "calm, sure that I'm cured and that I just need to take care of myself." After suffering his fall on October 19, Lula had told an official from his Workers' Party that the accident was "serious." In the weeks following, the president skipped planned overseas trips. But from mid-November he resumed his active schedule, hosting a G20 summit in Rio and attending a Mercosur summit in Uruguay. The latest medical emergency adds to a list of health problems Lula has suffered over the years, including treatment in 2011 for throat cancer, and a hip replacement operation last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazilian President Lula discharged from hospital following emergency brain surgery

Sao Paulo, Brazil
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was discharged Sunday from a Sao Paulo hospital following emergency surgery to treat an intracranial haemorrhage.
"I am here in one piece... returning home calmly," the 79-year-old leftist leader said as he made a surprise appearance at a news conference by his medical team at Hospital Sirio-Libanes.
He later smiled and waved to reporters as he left the hospital.
Lula had successful surgery Tuesday, in which doctors drilled through his skull to relieve the pressure that built up after a blow to the head in October when he fell in a bathroom in his presidential residence in the capital Brasilia.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>
On Thursday, he underwent a follow-up operation to minimize the risk of further bleeding in the affected area of the protective intracranial membranes. 
The president can resume activities but will need to take it easy for 15 days, cardiologist Roberto Kalil said at the news conference.
Lula will remain in São Paulo until Thursday, when he will undergo follow-up tests. Once cleared, he will be able to return to Brasilia and his normal routine.
"The only restriction is physical exercise," said Kalil.
Another doctor, Ana Helena Germoglio, said Lula's recovery has "exceeded expectations."
Known for his frenetic work pace, Lula burst into the news conference Sunday without warning and approached the microphones, walking unassisted.
He addressed reporters while wearing a fedora-style hat that covered up signs of his operations, accompanied by his wife Rosangela "Janja" da Silva.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-breaks-silence-labels-yoon-a-ringleader-of-rebellion-amid-south-koreas-political-crisis-784247">North Korea breaks silence, labels Yoon a 'ringleader of rebellion' amid South Korea's political crisis</a>
Lula's medical emergency started when he complained last Monday of a headache while in Brasilia. 
"I felt like my steps were slowing down, my eyes were red and I was very sleepy," he said.
An MRI scan found a haemorrhage between his brain and the dura mater membrane that protects it, prompting his swift transport to Hospital Sirio-Libanes -- the country's top medical facility -- for surgery.
"I confess I was scared by the volume of fluid growth in my head. I was worried by the urgency of the request" to go to the hospital, he said.
"I never think I'm going to die, but I'm scared, so I need to follow the rules," Lula said, adding that he will not go to the beach for the end-of-year holidays, as many Brazilians do.
"I'm going home now," he told reporters, "calm, sure that I'm cured and that I just need to take care of myself." 
After suffering his fall on October 19, Lula had told an official from his Workers' Party that the accident was "serious."
In the weeks following, the president skipped planned overseas trips. But from mid-November he resumed his active schedule, hosting a G20 summit in Rio and attending a Mercosur summit in Uruguay.
The latest medical emergency adds to a list of health problems Lula has suffered over the years, including treatment in 2011 for throat cancer, and a hip replacement operation last year.
(With inputs from agencies)

"I am here in one piece... returning home calmly," the 79-year-old leftist leader said as he made a surprise appearance at a news conference by his medical team at Hospital Sirio-Libanes



Sao Paulo, Brazil Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was discharged Sunday from a Sao Paulo hospital following emergency surgery to treat an intracranial haemorrhage. "I am here in one piece... returning home calmly," the 79-year-old leftist leader said as he made a surprise appearance at a news conference by his medical team at Hospital Sirio-Libanes. He later smiled and waved to reporters as he left the hospital. Lula had successful surgery Tuesday, in which doctors drilled through his skull to relieve the pressure that built up after a blow to the head in October when he fell in a bathroom in his presidential residence in the capital Brasilia. Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions On Thursday, he underwent a follow-up operation to minimize the risk of further bleeding in the affected area of the protective intracranial membranes. The president can resume activities but will need to take it easy for 15 days, cardiologist Roberto Kalil said at the news conference. Lula will remain in São Paulo until Thursday, when he will undergo follow-up tests. Once cleared, he will be able to return to Brasilia and his normal routine. "The only restriction is physical exercise," said Kalil. Another doctor, Ana Helena Germoglio, said Lula's recovery has "exceeded expectations." Known for his frenetic work pace, Lula burst into the news conference Sunday without warning and approached the microphones, walking unassisted. He addressed reporters while wearing a fedora-style hat that covered up signs of his operations, accompanied by his wife Rosangela "Janja" da Silva. Also read | North Korea breaks silence, labels Yoon a 'ringleader of rebellion' amid South Korea's political crisis Lula's medical emergency started when he complained last Monday of a headache while in Brasilia. "I felt like my steps were slowing down, my eyes were red and I was very sleepy," he said. An MRI scan found a haemorrhage between his brain and the dura mater membrane that protects it, prompting his swift transport to Hospital Sirio-Libanes -- the country's top medical facility -- for surgery. "I confess I was scared by the volume of fluid growth in my head. I was worried by the urgency of the request" to go to the hospital, he said. "I never think I'm going to die, but I'm scared, so I need to follow the rules," Lula said, adding that he will not go to the beach for the end-of-year holidays, as many Brazilians do. "I'm going home now," he told reporters, "calm, sure that I'm cured and that I just need to take care of myself." After suffering his fall on October 19, Lula had told an official from his Workers' Party that the accident was "serious." In the weeks following, the president skipped planned overseas trips. But from mid-November he resumed his active schedule, hosting a G20 summit in Rio and attending a Mercosur summit in Uruguay. The latest medical emergency adds to a list of health problems Lula has suffered over the years, including treatment in 2011 for throat cancer, and a hip replacement operation last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco, leaving a profound impact on the world of classical music. Widely regarded as one of the greatest tabla players of all time, Hussain's contributions to both Indian and global music were unparalleled. Known for his virtuosic skills, innovative techniques, and collaborations with various legendary musicians, his legacy will continue to inspire generations. Zakir Hussain's death marks the end of an era in Indian classical music, and his influence on the world of percussion and rhythm will never be forgotten.

Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain Passes Away At 73 In San Francisco

Renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain has passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco, leaving a profound impact on the world of classical music. Widely regarded as one of the greatest tabla players of all time, Hussain's contributions to both Indian and global music were unparalleled. Known for his virtuosic skills, innovative techniques, and collaborations with various legendary musicians, his legacy will continue to inspire generations. Zakir Hussain's death marks the end of an era in Indian classical music, and his influence on the world of percussion and rhythm will never be forgotten.



Maharashtra's cabinet expansion saw key leaders take their oath during a formal ceremony. The new appointments mark a significant political development in the state's governance.

Maharashtra Cabinet Expansion: BJP Takes 19 Ministerial Berths

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