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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec. 10) took the stand in the corruption trial against him, calling the allegations "simply ridiculous." The trial involves three separate cases in which prosecutors said that Netanyahu exchanged regulatory favours with media titans for favourable press coverage and advanced the personal interests of a billionaire Hollywood producer in exchange for lavish gifts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec. 10) took the stand in the corruption trial against him, calling the allegations "simply ridiculous." The trial involves three separate cases in which prosecutors said that Netanyahu exchanged regulatory favours with media titans for favourable press coverage and advanced the personal interests of a billionaire Hollywood producer in exchange for lavish gifts. Netanyahu responds to allegations As per a report by The Times of Israel on Tuesday, Netanyahu responded to the allegations that he demanded champagne and cigars and exploited his position to receive thousands of shekels in benefits. “This is a total lie. I work 17-18 hours a day. Everyone who knows me knows this,” Netanyahu said. Also read | Netanyahu calls ICC arrest warrant 'antisemitic,' warns of 'severe consequences' “That’s how I work. I eat my meals at my work table, it’s not cordon bleu, it’s not waiters coming with white gloves,” he added. The Israeli prime minister also pointed out that he worked around the clock. "...sometimes I sit with a cigar, and I can’t smoke it all at once because I smoke them between meetings,” Netanyahu said, adding, that he hated champagne. Toward the end of Netanyahu’s testimony today in his corruption trial, the premier described what he viewed as hostile coverage he received a decade ago from the Walla news site. He contends that Walla at the time was extraordinarily adversarial toward him, and that this did not improve over the next period of time. Netanyahu first sitting Israeli PM to face trial Benjamin Netanyahu is the first sitting Israeli prime minister to face a criminal trial. Several people, including anti-Netanyahu protesters and his supporters, gathered outside the court, while some right-wing lawmakers attended the session, which was held in an underground chamber for security reasons, a report by the news agency AFP said. Also watch | Ex-Shin Bet chief accuses Netanyahu of spying The corruption trial, which began in 2020, is scheduled to last for several months, with an appeals process that could further prolong matters. (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu corruption trial: Israeli PM calls allegations 'simply ridiculous'

After lightning advances by the rebels in Syria spearheaded by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled to Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who for years has provided military support to the Assad regime, is facing new challenges as rebels take over. Questions are being raised about the two strategically important Russian facilities in Syria. Reports indicate Moscow has threatened a harsh response if Russian military bases in Syria are attacked. Watch in for more details!

Syria War: Moscow 'Vows' Harsh Response If Military Bases Hit: Reports

Syria War: Russia To Discuss Military Bases With New Rulers: Kremlin

India's Foreign Secretary on Monday raised concerns about the safety of minorities and recent attacks on cultural, religious, and diplomatic properties in Bangladesh. Watch for more details!

Vikram Misri In Bangladesh: India Seeks Constructive, Mutually Beneficial Relations | WION

French President Emmanuel Macron will hold discussions with leaders from various political parties on Monday as he works to appoint a new prime minister. This comes after Michel Barnier's minority government collapsed last week following a no-confidence vote. Parliamentary speaker Yaël Braun-Pivet indicated that a replacement will be announced "within the next few hours." Watch to know more!

France: Emmanuel Macron Faces Mounting Pressure To Name New Prime Minister | WION

Rebel factions in Syria, who ousted Bashar al-Assad from power following their November 27 offensive, on Tuesday (Dec 10) named Mohammed al-Bashir as head of a transitional government.

Rebel factions in Syria, who ousted Bashar al-Assad from power following their November 27 offensive, on Tuesday (Dec 10) named Mohammed al-Bashir as head of a transitional government. Citing state media, a report by the news agency AFP said that the transitional government would be in place until March 1. "The general command has tasked us with running the transitional government until March 1," a statement attributed to Bashir said. The statement referred to him as the new prime minister of Syria. Who is Mohammed al-Bashir? Bashir has been serving as the prime minister of the Syrian Salvation Government since January 13 this year. Al-Bashir is an engineer by profession. Following the outbreak of the civil war in Syria in 2011, he became the director of an educational institution which provided education to children affected by the conflict. Click here to follow all updates on West Asia crisis As rebel groups led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched an offensive against the Assad government forces in late November, al-Bashir stated that the offensive was launched in response to attacks on civilians by Syrian government troops, which he claimed had led to the displacement of "tens of thousands" of civilians. Following the ouster of Assad on Sunday, al-Bashir was tasked with forming a transitional government after meeting with HTS leader Abu Mohammad al-Julani and outgoing Syrian prime minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali to coordinate a transfer of power. The Syrian Salvation Government was set up in the Idlib bastion in 2017 to assist people in the rebel-held area people cut off from government services. AFP reported that the government has its own ministries, departments, and judicial and security authorities. (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.

Syrian conflict: Rebels name Mohammed al-Bashir as head of transitional govt

Damascus has descended into turmoil a day after the rebels overthrew the Assad government. Political chaos is unfolding in Syria as fear rises over the resurgence of extremist groups. This report tells you what's next for Syria after the collapse of the 53-year rule of the Assad regime. Watch in for more details!

Syria Civil War: Political Chaos Unfolds In Syria As Rebels Take Over Damascus

A wildfire that broke out in the city of Malibu in the US state of California on Monday (Dec . 9), has led to authorities issuing emergency evacuation orders near the area. The fire was reported to be spreading at a "rapid rate".&nbsp;

The blaze has been dubbed the Franklin Fire by the authorities and has destroyed over 300 acres in Malibu Canyon. The fire ignited around 10:50 PM on December 9, and within just a few hours, it spread across 800 acres. As of now, the fire has covered around 1,800 acres of area.&nbsp;

Around 6,000 residents of Malibu and as many as 2,000 structures are under evacuation orders.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sex-toy-ban-men-made-for-impossible-situations-luigi-mangiones-bizarre-endorsements-online-782981">UnitedHealthcare CEO's killer made bizarre endorsements online, called for ban on sex toys</a>

Firefighters are under a duty to control the blaze while monitoring its progression.&nbsp;

Pepperdine University in California has been turned into a shelter for students and staff. Classes and exams have been cancelled for the day, seeing the intensity of the fire.&nbsp;

The university told BBC that its property was not threatened by the fire, but it has the potential to grow and to lead power cuts in the area.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service of the United States has issued a Red Flag Warning regarding the increasing danger due to the fire.

Multiple videos have been circulated online showing the haunting view of the area.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Looking west from Las Flores area. Fire mapped at 1825 acres as of 0415 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FranklinFire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FranklinFire</a> <a href="https://t.co/kpg3SwO4Vw">pic.twitter.com/kpg3SwO4Vw</a>
— Malibu Emergency Preparedness Solutions🚑🚓🚒🚔🚁 (@MPrepardness) <a href="https://twitter.com/MPrepardness/status/1866459124369957227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Dude this is a hugeee fire in Malibu now! I just passed through the blazes both sides of CPH I felt the heat of fire. <a href="https://t.co/qkO5eBq7fD">pic.twitter.com/qkO5eBq7fD</a>
— Alp Toygar (@AlpToygar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlpToygar1/status/1866433646242267492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Currently monitoring the fire on Malibu Canyon and Malibu Crest Road. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/franklinfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#franklinfire</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/malibu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#malibu</a> <a href="https://t.co/TBpy9zUhXf">pic.twitter.com/TBpy9zUhXf</a>
— Samantha Bravo (@samanthavbravo) <a href="https://twitter.com/samanthavbravo/status/1866401768021917809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Watch |&nbsp;Philippines Deport 190 Chinese Nationals Linked To Offshore Gambling

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-deport-190-chinese-nationals-linked-to-offshore-gambling-782947/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The main cause of the fire has not been discovered yet.&nbsp;

The blaze has been termed a brush fire, which means the fire that affects lower-lying vegetation like grasses.&nbsp;

The Malibu fire came just a month after a fire forced thousands of people to evacuate another city in California, Moorpark.&nbsp;

California is a state in the US that has been prone to wildfires for a long time. But a sudden increase was reported in the incidents of wildfire in the state, and scientists said it was due to human-caused climate change.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

A wildfire that broke out in the city of Malibu in the US state of California on Monday (Dec . 9), has led to authorities issuing emergency evacuation orders near the area.

A wildfire that broke out in the city of Malibu in the US state of California on Monday (Dec . 9), has led to authorities issuing emergency evacuation orders near the area. The fire was reported to be spreading at a "rapid rate". The blaze has been dubbed the Franklin Fire by the authorities and has destroyed over 300 acres in Malibu Canyon. The fire ignited around 10:50 PM on December 9, and within just a few hours, it spread across 800 acres. As of now, the fire has covered around 1,800 acres of area. Around 6,000 residents of Malibu and as many as 2,000 structures are under evacuation orders. Also read | UnitedHealthcare CEO's killer made bizarre endorsements online, called for ban on sex toys Firefighters are under a duty to control the blaze while monitoring its progression. Pepperdine University in California has been turned into a shelter for students and staff. Classes and exams have been cancelled for the day, seeing the intensity of the fire. The university told BBC that its property was not threatened by the fire, but it has the potential to grow and to lead power cuts in the area. The National Weather Service of the United States has issued a Red Flag Warning regarding the increasing danger due to the fire. Multiple videos have been circulated online showing the haunting view of the area. Looking west from Las Flores area. Fire mapped at 1825 acres as of 0415 #FranklinFire pic.twitter.com/kpg3SwO4Vw — Malibu Emergency Preparedness Solutions🚑🚓🚒🚔🚁 (@MPrepardness) December 10, 2024 Dude this is a hugeee fire in Malibu now! I just passed through the blazes both sides of CPH I felt the heat of fire. pic.twitter.com/qkO5eBq7fD — Alp Toygar (@AlpToygar1) December 10, 2024 Currently monitoring the fire on Malibu Canyon and Malibu Crest Road. #franklinfire #malibu pic.twitter.com/TBpy9zUhXf — Samantha Bravo (@samanthavbravo) December 10, 2024 Watch | Philippines Deport 190 Chinese Nationals Linked To Offshore Gambling The main cause of the fire has not been discovered yet. The blaze has been termed a brush fire, which means the fire that affects lower-lying vegetation like grasses. The Malibu fire came just a month after a fire forced thousands of people to evacuate another city in California, Moorpark. California is a state in the US that has been prone to wildfires for a long time. But a sudden increase was reported in the incidents of wildfire in the state, and scientists said it was due to human-caused climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Malibu fire spreads rapidly, forces evacuation after burning 1,800 acres

The whole Syria remains in the turmoil situation with the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. To take the advantage of situation, countries hit sites across Syria as regional actors in the Middle East scrambled to defend their interests in the country.

UN: Bombardment Of Syria Must Stop

US President-elect Donald Trump called for an immediate ceasefire and negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to end "the madness". Trump has vowed to bring about a negotiated end to the conflict. Watch for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Eyes Diplomacy In Trump's Shadow

Power Vacuum in Syria Fuels Bombardments By Allies & Rivals

A Nevada ruling blocks Rupert Murdoch's attempt to consolidate power for his son Lachlan and preserves family balance within his media empire. Watch in for more details!

Rupert Murdoch Faces Setback Amid Family Trust Dispute

26-year-old Luigi Mangione is the suspected murderer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. But there is something more to know about him—his support of a hodgepodge of political views. He has reacted to various social media posts ranging from calls to ban sex toys in Japan, modern America being compared to the fall of Rome, and much more.

His X account includes links to multiple philosophical books and a few posts about the values of males in society.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-us-announce-sanctions-aimed-at-disrupting-illicit-gold-trade-782972">UK, US announce sanctions aimed at disrupting illicit gold trade</a>

In March, Mangione reacted to a post about falling population rates in Japan. He commented on the post, saying the real problem was not immigration but the obsession with Japanese sex toys and pornography. He even offered solutions to the issue that included “encouraging natural human interaction, sex, physical fitness, and spirituality". All this by banning Tenga fleshlights, among other sex toys, and replacing “conveyor belt sushi and vending machines” with “real human waiters".

<h2>Love for philosophy&nbsp;</h2>

Watch |&nbsp;Sex Workers In Japan Face Physical Violence &amp; Extortion

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-sex-workers-japan-face-physical-violence-extortion-765298/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mangione also expressed his likeness towards authors, bloggers, thinkers, and revolutionists, including Aldous Huxley, Tim Urban, Jonathan Haidt, and Ted Kzacinski.

In April, he replied to a post on X about the matrix. He quoted Huxley’s book, 'Brave New World' as he wrote, “But I don’t want comfort. I want God, I want poetry, I want real danger, I want freedom, I want goodness. I want sin."

The suspected killer also used to like, repost and reply to a blogger named Tim Urban, who is famous for his website called 'Wait but why'. The website primarily talks about artificial intelligence, space exploration, and human productivity.&nbsp;

Mangione has particularly reposted Urban's blogs discussing the need to restrict cell phone use by kids under 16.&nbsp;

<h2>'Men made for daring feats'</h2>

Mangione further reported a post on X that talked about how men are made for "impossible situations and daring feats".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-corruption-trial-israeli-pm-calls-allegations-simply-ridiculous-782963">Netanyahu corruption trial: Israeli PM calls allegations 'simply ridiculous'</a>

The post said, “If you want to understand men better, just look at all the movies they’ve made, books they’ve written, and games they invent when they’re young. Almost every single one is about a young man being thrust into a position or situation he doesn’t know if he can overcome. Many times he believes he can’t, so he initially refuses the challenge."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

26-year-old Luigi Mangione is the suspected murderer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. But there is something more to know about him—his support of a hodgepodge of political views.

26-year-old Luigi Mangione is the suspected murderer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. But there is something more to know about him—his support of a hodgepodge of political views. He has reacted to various social media posts ranging from calls to ban sex toys in Japan, modern America being compared to the fall of Rome, and much more. His X account includes links to multiple philosophical books and a few posts about the values of males in society. Also read | UK, US announce sanctions aimed at disrupting illicit gold trade In March, Mangione reacted to a post about falling population rates in Japan. He commented on the post, saying the real problem was not immigration but the obsession with Japanese sex toys and pornography. He even offered solutions to the issue that included “encouraging natural human interaction, sex, physical fitness, and spirituality". All this by banning Tenga fleshlights, among other sex toys, and replacing “conveyor belt sushi and vending machines” with “real human waiters". Love for philosophy Watch | Sex Workers In Japan Face Physical Violence & Extortion Mangione also expressed his likeness towards authors, bloggers, thinkers, and revolutionists, including Aldous Huxley, Tim Urban, Jonathan Haidt, and Ted Kzacinski. In April, he replied to a post on X about the matrix. He quoted Huxley’s book, 'Brave New World' as he wrote, “But I don’t want comfort. I want God, I want poetry, I want real danger, I want freedom, I want goodness. I want sin." The suspected killer also used to like, repost and reply to a blogger named Tim Urban, who is famous for his website called 'Wait but why'. The website primarily talks about artificial intelligence, space exploration, and human productivity. Mangione has particularly reposted Urban's blogs discussing the need to restrict cell phone use by kids under 16. 'Men made for daring feats' Mangione further reported a post on X that talked about how men are made for "impossible situations and daring feats". Also read | Netanyahu corruption trial: Israeli PM calls allegations 'simply ridiculous' The post said, “If you want to understand men better, just look at all the movies they’ve made, books they’ve written, and games they invent when they’re young. Almost every single one is about a young man being thrust into a position or situation he doesn’t know if he can overcome. Many times he believes he can’t, so he initially refuses the challenge." (With inputs from agencies)

UnitedHealthcare CEO's killer made bizarre endorsements online, called for ban on sex toys

A polygamist religious leader in the United States was given 50 years of imprisonment on Monday (Dec. 9) after he was found guilty of coercing girls, who were as young as 9 years old, into criminal sexual acts.

The leader, who claimed to have more than 20 spiritual 'wives', made schemes to kidnap children from protective custody and forced them to perform sex acts with him as well as other adults.&nbsp;

Samuel Bateman, who was leading a group that was an offshoot of the sect that was once headed by Warren Jeffs, pleaded guilty to making schemes for transporting girls and pushing them into sex crimes and also kidnapping some from protective custody.

As per the agreement, Bateman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring the transportation of a minor for sexual activity and one count of conspiring the kidnapping of the girls.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladeshs-interim-govt-seeks-help-of-religious-leaders-to-get-info-about-attacks-on-minorities-781836">Bangladesh’s interim govt seeks help of religious leaders to get info about attacks on minorities</a>

The crime of transporting children carries a sentence of 10 years to life imprisonment, and kidnapping also has the punishment of life imprisonment.&nbsp;

The court sentenced Bateman to 50 years on each count, which he needs to serve concurrently. As part of the agreement, the court dismissed the rest of the charges.

<h2>All about Samuel Bateman-run FLDS</h2>

As per the authorities, 48-year-old Bateman made an effort to start an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), which is situated in the neighbouring communities of Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah.&nbsp;

The fundamentalist group had split from the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after polygamy was officially abandoned by its members in 1890.&nbsp;

U.S. District Court Judge Susan Brnovich sentenced the leader after hearing statements from three teenage girls regarding the trauma that they are struggling to overcome.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sukhbir Singh Badal Faces Religious Punishment From Akal Takht&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sukhbir-singh-badal-faces-religious-punishment-from-akal-takht-world-news-wion-781184/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"You should not have the opportunity to be free and never have the opportunity to be around young women," Brnovich said to Bateman&nbsp;and added that the 50-year sentence is equal to a life sentence for a nearly 49-year-old man.

"You took them from their homes, from their families, and made them into sex slaves. You stripped them of their innocence and childhood," said the judge.

After the court pronounced the sentence, the girls accompanying the women hugged them and wept.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A polygamist religious leader in the United States was given 50 years of imprisonment on Monday (Dec. 9) after he was found guilty of coercing girls, who were as young as 9 years old, into criminal sexual acts.

A polygamist religious leader in the United States was given 50 years of imprisonment on Monday (Dec. 9) after he was found guilty of coercing girls, who were as young as 9 years old, into criminal sexual acts. The leader, who claimed to have more than 20 spiritual 'wives', made schemes to kidnap children from protective custody and forced them to perform sex acts with him as well as other adults. Samuel Bateman, who was leading a group that was an offshoot of the sect that was once headed by Warren Jeffs, pleaded guilty to making schemes for transporting girls and pushing them into sex crimes and also kidnapping some from protective custody. As per the agreement, Bateman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring the transportation of a minor for sexual activity and one count of conspiring the kidnapping of the girls. Also Read: Bangladesh’s interim govt seeks help of religious leaders to get info about attacks on minorities The crime of transporting children carries a sentence of 10 years to life imprisonment, and kidnapping also has the punishment of life imprisonment. The court sentenced Bateman to 50 years on each count, which he needs to serve concurrently. As part of the agreement, the court dismissed the rest of the charges. All about Samuel Bateman-run FLDS As per the authorities, 48-year-old Bateman made an effort to start an offshoot of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), which is situated in the neighbouring communities of Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah. The fundamentalist group had split from the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after polygamy was officially abandoned by its members in 1890. U.S. District Court Judge Susan Brnovich sentenced the leader after hearing statements from three teenage girls regarding the trauma that they are struggling to overcome. Watch: Sukhbir Singh Badal Faces Religious Punishment From Akal Takht "You should not have the opportunity to be free and never have the opportunity to be around young women," Brnovich said to Bateman and added that the 50-year sentence is equal to a life sentence for a nearly 49-year-old man. "You took them from their homes, from their families, and made them into sex slaves. You stripped them of their innocence and childhood," said the judge. After the court pronounced the sentence, the girls accompanying the women hugged them and wept. (With inputs from agencies)

US polygamous leader, who has 20 spiritual 'wives', gets prison sentence for criminal sex acts with children

The long rule of the Assad family in Syria that lasted over half a century came to an end after rebel groups seized the capital Damascus and overthrew President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday (Dec 8).

Assad, who belongs to the minority Alawites community, maintained power over the Sunni-majority Syria for 24 years.

However, the collapse of his rule has forced him to flee the country to Russia, ending his family’s 54-year rule.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-security-council-to-hold-emergency-meeting-to-discuss-situation-in-syria-as-assad-flees-country-782534">UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting to discuss situation in Syria as Assad flees country</a>

<h2>Who are the Alawites?</h2>

The ouster of Assad brought sharp focus back to his community Alawites, a minority Shia sect in a Sunni-majority country. 
 
The Alawites are significantly different from other Islamic sects. Although they make up only about 10-13 per cent of Syria's 23 million population, they have asserted dominance over the nation after its independence from France in 1946.

Amid the rising influence within the country’s politics and military forces, Hafez al-Assad became president after the military coup in 1970. He remained in power until his death in 2000. His son Bashar al-Assad then followed his father’s footsteps, becoming the president in an authoritarian rule until his fall, which marked the end of Alawite dominance in Syria's governance.

While Alawites have roots in Shia Islam, they practice distinct rituals and beliefs from Sunni and mainstream Shia.

The Alawite faith venerates Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad.

It has elements of other faiths including Christian, Gnostic, Neoplatonic, and Zoroastrian.

Alawites interpret the five Pillars of Islam symbolically and observe Christian, Islamic, and Alawite holidays.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-next-for-syria-following-bashar-al-assads-ouster-782657">What's next for Syria following Bashar al-Assad's ouster?</a>

Their practices and secretive nature of faith have alienated them from the other mainstream Muslim groups, who often label them as infidels.

Their beliefs include reincarnation and a divine Trinity.

The Alawites benefitted under Assad family rule, becoming synonymous with power in the country where they were minorities.

However, not all Alawites were in support of Assad.

Despite their influence, a large section of the community faced economic challenges and did not profit from Assad’s rule.

After the fall of Assad, Alawites are struck with shock and confusion as their future remains uncertain during the shifting political landscape of the country, which has resulted in a loss of their influence.

(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 long rule of the Assad family in Syria that lasted over half a century came to an end after rebel groups seized the capital Damascus and overthrew President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday (Dec 8).

The long rule of the Assad family in Syria that lasted over half a century came to an end after rebel groups seized the capital Damascus and overthrew President Bashar al-Assad on Sunday (Dec 8). Assad, who belongs to the minority Alawites community, maintained power over the Sunni-majority Syria for 24 years. However, the collapse of his rule has forced him to flee the country to Russia, ending his family’s 54-year rule. Also read | UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting to discuss situation in Syria as Assad flees country Who are the Alawites? The ouster of Assad brought sharp focus back to his community Alawites, a minority Shia sect in a Sunni-majority country. The Alawites are significantly different from other Islamic sects. Although they make up only about 10-13 per cent of Syria's 23 million population, they have asserted dominance over the nation after its independence from France in 1946. Amid the rising influence within the country’s politics and military forces, Hafez al-Assad became president after the military coup in 1970. He remained in power until his death in 2000. His son Bashar al-Assad then followed his father’s footsteps, becoming the president in an authoritarian rule until his fall, which marked the end of Alawite dominance in Syria's governance. While Alawites have roots in Shia Islam, they practice distinct rituals and beliefs from Sunni and mainstream Shia. The Alawite faith venerates Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad. It has elements of other faiths including Christian, Gnostic, Neoplatonic, and Zoroastrian. Alawites interpret the five Pillars of Islam symbolically and observe Christian, Islamic, and Alawite holidays. Also read | What's next for Syria following Bashar al-Assad's ouster? Their practices and secretive nature of faith have alienated them from the other mainstream Muslim groups, who often label them as infidels. Their beliefs include reincarnation and a divine Trinity. The Alawites benefitted under Assad family rule, becoming synonymous with power in the country where they were minorities. However, not all Alawites were in support of Assad. Despite their influence, a large section of the community faced economic challenges and did not profit from Assad’s rule. After the fall of Assad, Alawites are struck with shock and confusion as their future remains uncertain during the shifting political landscape of the country, which has resulted in a loss of their influence. (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.

Who are the Alawites, Assad's community, who dominated Syria despite being a minority?

Amid Syria's civil war that resulted in the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Germany has suspended its decisions on asylum requests from Syrians on Monday, December 9, the interior minister said.

Germany is home to Europe’s largest diaspora from the country after taking in nearly one million Syrians during 2015-16 under former chancellor Angela Merkel.

“The end of the brutal tyranny of the Syrian dictator Assad is a great relief for many people who have suffered from torture, murder and terror,” Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a statement.

However, “the situation in Syria is currently very unclear,” she cautioned.&nbsp;

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has paused the decisions for asylum procedures that are ongoing until the situation becomes clearer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-conflict-us-nsa-sullivan-to-visit-israel-for-talks-on-syria-as-rebels-take-over-updates-782755">Syrian conflict: US NSA Sullivan to visit Israel for talks on Syria as rebels take over- Updates</a>

According to the interior ministry, 974,136 Syrian nationals were living in Germany. While 5,090 of these were acknowledged as eligible for asylum, 321,444 were granted the status of refugee, and 329,242 were given subsidiary protection, a temporary stay of deportation. Tens of thousands of other cases remain pending.

<h2>EU 'not currently engaging' with Syrian rebels</h2>

The European Union said on Monday&nbsp;that it is not in contact with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which overthrew the rule of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. The EU has also urged for a peaceful political transition in the country.

Although HTS broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016, the group and its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, remain under EU sanctions.

“The European Union is not currently engaging with HTS or its leaders, full stop,” EU spokesman Anouar El Anouni said.&nbsp;

“As HTS takes on greater responsibilities, we will need to assess not just their words but also their actions.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-alawites-assads-community-who-dominated-syria-despite-being-a-minority-782702">Who are the Alawites, Assad's community, who dominated Syria despite being a minority</a>

<h2>UK will 'quickly' decide on terror status of HTS&nbsp;</h2>

The UK will “quickly” decide whether to remove the Islamist group HTS from the list of terrorist organisations, Pat McFadden, Minister for Intergovernmental Relations of the United Kingdom, said on Monday, December 9.

The group is classified as a terror group in the UK and the United States.

“If the situation stabilises, there'll be a decision to make about how to deal with whatever new regime is in place there,” he told BBC Radio 4.

(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.

Amid Syria's civil war that resulted in the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Germany has suspended its decisions on asylum requests from Syrians on Monday, December 9, the interior minister said.

Amid Syria's civil war that resulted in the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Germany has suspended its decisions on asylum requests from Syrians on Monday, December 9, the interior minister said. Germany is home to Europe’s largest diaspora from the country after taking in nearly one million Syrians during 2015-16 under former chancellor Angela Merkel. “The end of the brutal tyranny of the Syrian dictator Assad is a great relief for many people who have suffered from torture, murder and terror,” Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a statement. However, “the situation in Syria is currently very unclear,” she cautioned. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees has paused the decisions for asylum procedures that are ongoing until the situation becomes clearer. Also read | Syrian conflict: US NSA Sullivan to visit Israel for talks on Syria as rebels take over- Updates According to the interior ministry, 974,136 Syrian nationals were living in Germany. While 5,090 of these were acknowledged as eligible for asylum, 321,444 were granted the status of refugee, and 329,242 were given subsidiary protection, a temporary stay of deportation. Tens of thousands of other cases remain pending. EU 'not currently engaging' with Syrian rebels The European Union said on Monday that it is not in contact with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which overthrew the rule of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. The EU has also urged for a peaceful political transition in the country. Although HTS broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016, the group and its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, remain under EU sanctions. “The European Union is not currently engaging with HTS or its leaders, full stop,” EU spokesman Anouar El Anouni said. “As HTS takes on greater responsibilities, we will need to assess not just their words but also their actions.” Also read | Who are the Alawites, Assad's community, who dominated Syria despite being a minority UK will 'quickly' decide on terror status of HTS The UK will “quickly” decide whether to remove the Islamist group HTS from the list of terrorist organisations, Pat McFadden, Minister for Intergovernmental Relations of the United Kingdom, said on Monday, December 9. The group is classified as a terror group in the UK and the United States. “If the situation stabilises, there'll be a decision to make about how to deal with whatever new regime is in place there,” he told BBC Radio 4. (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.

Germany freezes Syrian asylum decisions; EU not engaging with rebel group HTS after Assad ouster

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption.&nbsp;

The UK government imposed asset freezes on four people that it said were accused of involvement in illicit Russian gold trade.

"Illicit gold is an assault on the legitimate trade of a valuable commodity, fuelling corruption, undermining the rule of law, and entrenching human rights abuses such as child labour," the British Foreign Office said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100k-victims-50-nations-1mn-daily-revenue-russia-raids-massive-scam-centre-watch-video-782877">100k victims; 50 nations, $1mn daily revenue: Russia raids massive scam centre</a>

"Russia uses the illicit gold trade to launder money and evade sanctions, in doing so bolstering Putin's war efforts."

Last week, Britain and the United States joined forces to disrupt a massive global money laundering network used by wealthy Russians to evade sanctions.&nbsp;

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on 28 individuals and businesses allegedly involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-islamist-rebel-leader-vows-to-hold-accountable-former-officials-for-war-crimes-782919">Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes</a>

The network, which is led by Kamlesh Pattni, is accused of bribing officials, hiding ownership through trusted supporters, and creating a complex web of businesses to conceal illicit activities, said the US Treasury Department in a statement.

“Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined,” said Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.&nbsp;

“Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the United States reaffirms our commitment to use all available tools to hold these individuals to account for their schemes.”&nbsp;

The UK also designated Pattni on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption.

The United States and Britain have launched a new round of sanctions aimed at disrupting the illicit gold trade, which, as per the United Kingdom, is allegedly funding Russian President Vladimir Putin's military operations in Ukraine and backing corruption. The UK government imposed asset freezes on four people that it said were accused of involvement in illicit Russian gold trade. "Illicit gold is an assault on the legitimate trade of a valuable commodity, fuelling corruption, undermining the rule of law, and entrenching human rights abuses such as child labour," the British Foreign Office said in a statement. Also read: 100k victims; 50 nations, $1mn daily revenue: Russia raids massive scam centre "Russia uses the illicit gold trade to launder money and evade sanctions, in doing so bolstering Putin's war efforts." Last week, Britain and the United States joined forces to disrupt a massive global money laundering network used by wealthy Russians to evade sanctions. The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on 28 individuals and businesses allegedly involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe. Also read: Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes The network, which is led by Kamlesh Pattni, is accused of bribing officials, hiding ownership through trusted supporters, and creating a complex web of businesses to conceal illicit activities, said the US Treasury Department in a statement. “Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined,” said Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the United States reaffirms our commitment to use all available tools to hold these individuals to account for their schemes.” The UK also designated Pattni on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

UK, US announce sanctions aimed at disrupting illicit gold trade

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel took the stand on Tuesday in his corruption trial for the first time since it began in 2020. Watch this report for more details!

Israeli PM Netanyahu in Court for Corruption Trial

Firefighters were battling a three-alarm bushfire Tuesday in Malibu, California, prompting evacuations. It was not immediately known how the blaze, named the Franklin Fire, started but L.A. County Fire Department officials estimated that at least 100 acres (40 hectares) had been burned. Watch for more details!

California Firefighters Battle Three-Alarm Bushfire in Malibu

The European Union has shared evidence with the Indian government about Indian entities violating G7&nbsp;and EU sanctions on Russia. The evidence was shared during the EU Sanctions Envoy's visit to India earlier this year, with Brussels hoping that India will take action against the entities given that India has the 'means'. Delhi has sought more information on the evidence provided.

David O’Sullivan, EU Sanctions Envoy, said, "I travelled to India in October 2024 for the second time to discuss with Indian authorities systemic solutions to stop the illicit flow of Common High Priority items to Russia. Several third countries I visited have put in place specific mechanisms to solve this issue."

He explained, "Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine is existential for the EU. We will continue to disrupt the activities of the Russian military-industrial complex by shutting down illicit procurement networks on a constant basis.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-you-have-a-better-deal-indias-jaishankar-responds-about-getting-cheap-oil-from-russia-782718">Do you have a better deal?: India's Jaishankar responds on getting 'cheap oil' from Russia</a>

It is learnt that the EU is currently negotiating its 15th package of sanctions against Russia. This package will consist of listings of vessels part of the Shadow Fleet and entities that have been supplying ‘battlefield items’ to Russia.

EU sources said, “Two entities based in India are subject to specific export restrictions: Si2 Microsystems Pvt Ltd and Innovio Ventures. The EU will continue to work with Indian authorities to find a systemic solution to stop sanctions circumvention of Common High Priority goods to Russia.”

Sources pointed out, "These items are used to make Russian military equipment more precise and therefore more lethal. The EU already listed hundreds of entities part of the Russian military-industrial complex as well as actors based in third countries that have been actively undermining the EU sanctions framework."

The G7 and EU imposed sanctions on Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war that started in 2022. The sanctions are aimed at degrading Moscow's capacity by restricting access to technologies, industrial inputs, and financial systems. These sanctions include freezing assets, banning certain exports, and prohibiting imports like diamonds, metals, and oil products, targeting Russia's economic sectors critical to its military operations.

India's official stance is that it doesn't follow G7&nbsp;and EU sanctions and opposes any unilateral sanctions that haven't been approved by the UN, but the EU hopes that action can be taken by Delhi on the entities ahead of the India-EU summit next year. Delhi shares close and historic ties with Moscow and sees Russia as an important partner in its quest for natural resources and Make in India defence policy.

Since the 2022 war, Russia has increased its engagement with Asian giants like China and India, who in turn have increased imports of Russian energy, like crude oil. Since the war, India has increased the import of Russian crude oil, and the trade between the two countries stands at USD 65.4 billion for the financial year 2023-24 with a growth rate of 32.5% year on year.

Earlier this year, the United States had imposed sanctions on several Indian entities for their alleged support to Russia's military-industrial base. India has underscored that its legal and regulatory frameworks on trade and non-proliferation are robust, and these actions by Indian entities do not violate Indian laws.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said, "Our understanding is that the sanctioned transactions and companies are not in violation of Indian laws. Nevertheless, in keeping with India's established non-proliferation credentials, we are working with all the relevant Indian departments and agencies to sensitise Indian companies on applicable export control provisions."

The European Union has shared evidence with the Indian government about Indian entities violating G7 and EU sanctions on Russia. The evidence was shared during the EU Sanctions Envoy's visit to India earlier this year, with Brussels hoping that India will take action against the entities given that India has the 'means'.

The European Union has shared evidence with the Indian government about Indian entities violating G7 and EU sanctions on Russia. The evidence was shared during the EU Sanctions Envoy's visit to India earlier this year, with Brussels hoping that India will take action against the entities given that India has the 'means'. Delhi has sought more information on the evidence provided. David O’Sullivan, EU Sanctions Envoy, said, "I travelled to India in October 2024 for the second time to discuss with Indian authorities systemic solutions to stop the illicit flow of Common High Priority items to Russia. Several third countries I visited have put in place specific mechanisms to solve this issue." He explained, "Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine is existential for the EU. We will continue to disrupt the activities of the Russian military-industrial complex by shutting down illicit procurement networks on a constant basis.” Also read | Do you have a better deal?: India's Jaishankar responds on getting 'cheap oil' from Russia It is learnt that the EU is currently negotiating its 15th package of sanctions against Russia. This package will consist of listings of vessels part of the Shadow Fleet and entities that have been supplying ‘battlefield items’ to Russia. EU sources said, “Two entities based in India are subject to specific export restrictions: Si2 Microsystems Pvt Ltd and Innovio Ventures. The EU will continue to work with Indian authorities to find a systemic solution to stop sanctions circumvention of Common High Priority goods to Russia.” Sources pointed out, "These items are used to make Russian military equipment more precise and therefore more lethal. The EU already listed hundreds of entities part of the Russian military-industrial complex as well as actors based in third countries that have been actively undermining the EU sanctions framework." The G7 and EU imposed sanctions on Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war that started in 2022. The sanctions are aimed at degrading Moscow's capacity by restricting access to technologies, industrial inputs, and financial systems. These sanctions include freezing assets, banning certain exports, and prohibiting imports like diamonds, metals, and oil products, targeting Russia's economic sectors critical to its military operations. India's official stance is that it doesn't follow G7 and EU sanctions and opposes any unilateral sanctions that haven't been approved by the UN, but the EU hopes that action can be taken by Delhi on the entities ahead of the India-EU summit next year. Delhi shares close and historic ties with Moscow and sees Russia as an important partner in its quest for natural resources and Make in India defence policy. Since the 2022 war, Russia has increased its engagement with Asian giants like China and India, who in turn have increased imports of Russian energy, like crude oil. Since the war, India has increased the import of Russian crude oil, and the trade between the two countries stands at USD 65.4 billion for the financial year 2023-24 with a growth rate of 32.5% year on year. Earlier this year, the United States had imposed sanctions on several Indian entities for their alleged support to Russia's military-industrial base. India has underscored that its legal and regulatory frameworks on trade and non-proliferation are robust, and these actions by Indian entities do not violate Indian laws. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said, "Our understanding is that the sanctioned transactions and companies are not in violation of Indian laws. Nevertheless, in keeping with India's established non-proliferation credentials, we are working with all the relevant Indian departments and agencies to sensitise Indian companies on applicable export control provisions."

EU shares evidence of Indian entities breaching G7 sanctions

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva underwent emergency surgery for a brain haemorrhage at the Syrian-Lebanese Hospital in Sao Paulo caused by a recent fall.&nbsp;

"The operation went without complications" on Monday (Dec 9) night, and Lula was "doing well, under monitoring" in an intensive care unit, the hospital released a statement saying.

Lula's brain haemorrhage was linked to a fall he suffered on October 19 at the presidential residence in Brasilia. He had hit his head in the bathroom and received several stitches for the injury.&nbsp;

He was admitted to the hospital's branch in Brasilia on Monday "to undergo an imaging exam after experiencing a headache", said the hospital.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-islamist-rebel-leader-vows-to-hold-accountable-former-officials-for-war-crimes-782919">Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes</a>

Intracranial haemorrhage was reportedly detected during the examination.

He was then "transferred to the Sao Paulo unit of the Syrian-Lebanese hospital, where he underwent a craniotomy to drain the hematoma."

Lula was advised by the doctors to cancel his trip to Russia for the BRICS summit after the fall he had in the bathroom, so he joined the meeting online via video conferencing.

He also skipped the United Nations COP29 climate summit in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

Lula had described his October 19 accident as "serious" during a phone call with a Workers' Party official, which was later shared on social media.

"I am fine, I had an accident, but it was my fault. It was serious but it did not affect any sensitive area," the Brazilian president said in the call.

"I'm taking care of myself... The doctors said I had to wait at least three or four days to find out how much damage the blow had done," Lula said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva underwent emergency surgery for a brain haemorrhage at the Syrian-Lebanese Hospital in Sao Paulo caused by a recent fall.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva underwent emergency surgery for a brain haemorrhage at the Syrian-Lebanese Hospital in Sao Paulo caused by a recent fall. "The operation went without complications" on Monday (Dec 9) night, and Lula was "doing well, under monitoring" in an intensive care unit, the hospital released a statement saying. Lula's brain haemorrhage was linked to a fall he suffered on October 19 at the presidential residence in Brasilia. He had hit his head in the bathroom and received several stitches for the injury. He was admitted to the hospital's branch in Brasilia on Monday "to undergo an imaging exam after experiencing a headache", said the hospital. Also read: Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes Intracranial haemorrhage was reportedly detected during the examination. He was then "transferred to the Sao Paulo unit of the Syrian-Lebanese hospital, where he underwent a craniotomy to drain the hematoma." Lula was advised by the doctors to cancel his trip to Russia for the BRICS summit after the fall he had in the bathroom, so he joined the meeting online via video conferencing. He also skipped the United Nations COP29 climate summit in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. Lula had described his October 19 accident as "serious" during a phone call with a Workers' Party official, which was later shared on social media. "I am fine, I had an accident, but it was my fault. It was serious but it did not affect any sensitive area," the Brazilian president said in the call. "I'm taking care of myself... The doctors said I had to wait at least three or four days to find out how much damage the blow had done," Lula said. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazilian President Lula undergoes surgery for brain haemorrhage

Wall Street's main indexes closed lower on Monday, driven by a drop in AI leader Nvidia that weighed on tech stocks, as investors looked ahead to a crucial inflation report set for later this week.

Wall Street Futures Point To A Lower Open

Nearly 200 people in&nbsp;Haiti&nbsp;were killed in brutal weekend violence reportedly orchestrated against voodoo practitioners, with the government on Monday condemning a massacre of "unbearable cruelty."

The killings in the capital Port-au-Prince were overseen by a powerful gang leader convinced that his son's illness was caused by followers of the religion, according to civil organization the Committee for Peace and Development (CPD).

It was the latest act of extreme violence by powerful gangs that control most of the capital city in the impoverished Caribbean country mired for decades in political instability, natural disasters and other woes.&nbsp;

"He decided to cruelly punish all elderly people and voodoo practitioners who, in his imagination, would be capable of sending a bad spell on his son," a statement from the&nbsp;Haiti-based group said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the "horrific" violence, which his spokesman said left at least 184 people, including 127 elderly men and women, dead.

Calling the bloody episode an "act of barbarity, of unbearable cruelty," the office of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime said "this monstrous crime constitutes a direct attack on humanity."

Both the CPD and UN said that the killings took place in the capital's western coastal neighbourhood of Cite Soleil.

Reached by telephone by AFP, a resident confirmed the attacks and said that his 76-year-old father was among the victims.

"The bandits set fire to his body. The family cannot even organize a burial for him since we were unable to recover the body," he told AFP on condition of anonymity so as not to compromise the safety of other relatives.

"I also fear for their lives," he said. "I will try to get them out."

<h2>Taken to be 'executed'</h2>

"The gang's soldiers were responsible for identifying victims in their homes to take them to the chief's stronghold to be executed," the CPD said.

"Reliable sources within the community report that more than a hundred people were massacred, their bodies mutilated and burned in the street," it said.

One of the organization's leaders, Fritznel Pierre, told Radio Magik 9 in an interview that the number of casualties was not exhaustive, as the area was difficult to access.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj2qpCZkJ2KAxXd1jgGHZrQOBIQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massacre-ordered-by-gang-leader-in-haiti-claimed-over-100-lives-says-rights-group-782666" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/massacre-ordered-by-gang-leader-in-haiti-claimed-over-100-lives-says-rights-group-782666&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2qpCZkJ2KAxXd1jgGHZrQOBIQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Massacre ordered by gang leader in Haiti claimed over 100 lives, says rights group</a>

He reported that henchmen had hunted down old people and voodoo followers living in the Wharf Jeremie section of Cite Soleil between Friday evening and Saturday.

"Motorcycle taxi drivers who tried to flee with targeted people were also executed," he said.

Voodoo was brought to&nbsp;Haiti&nbsp;by African slaves and is a mainstay of the country's culture. It was banned during French colonial rule and only recognized as an official religion by the Haitian government in 2003.

Watch:&nbsp;Haiti Summons French Ambassador Following Macron's "Morons" Remark About Its Leaders

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While it incorporates elements of other religious beliefs, including Catholicism, voodoo has been historically attacked by other religions.

Haiti&nbsp;has suffered from decades of instability but the situation escalated in February when armed groups launched coordinated attacks in the capital to overthrow then-prime minister Ariel Henry.

Gangs now control 80 per cent of the city. Despite a Kenyan-led police support mission, backed by the United States and UN, violence has continued to soar.

The UN chief called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the weekend massacre and also reiterated calls for more international support to assist Haitian police in their battle against the gangs.

More than 700,000 people are internally displaced in&nbsp;Haiti, half of them children; added to this are 5,000 forced from their homes by the weekend massacre, said the International Organization for Migration.

The latest killings bring the death toll this year in&nbsp;Haiti&nbsp;to around 5,000 people, according to the United Nations.

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.

Nearly 200 people in Haiti were killed in brutal weekend violence reportedly orchestrated against voodoo practitioners, with the government on Monday condemning a massacre of "unbearable cruelty.

Nearly 200 people in Haiti were killed in brutal weekend violence reportedly orchestrated against voodoo practitioners, with the government on Monday condemning a massacre of "unbearable cruelty." The killings in the capital Port-au-Prince were overseen by a powerful gang leader convinced that his son's illness was caused by followers of the religion, according to civil organization the Committee for Peace and Development (CPD). It was the latest act of extreme violence by powerful gangs that control most of the capital city in the impoverished Caribbean country mired for decades in political instability, natural disasters and other woes. "He decided to cruelly punish all elderly people and voodoo practitioners who, in his imagination, would be capable of sending a bad spell on his son," a statement from the Haiti-based group said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the "horrific" violence, which his spokesman said left at least 184 people, including 127 elderly men and women, dead. Calling the bloody episode an "act of barbarity, of unbearable cruelty," the office of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime said "this monstrous crime constitutes a direct attack on humanity." Both the CPD and UN said that the killings took place in the capital's western coastal neighbourhood of Cite Soleil. Reached by telephone by AFP, a resident confirmed the attacks and said that his 76-year-old father was among the victims. "The bandits set fire to his body. The family cannot even organize a burial for him since we were unable to recover the body," he told AFP on condition of anonymity so as not to compromise the safety of other relatives. "I also fear for their lives," he said. "I will try to get them out." Taken to be 'executed' "The gang's soldiers were responsible for identifying victims in their homes to take them to the chief's stronghold to be executed," the CPD said. "Reliable sources within the community report that more than a hundred people were massacred, their bodies mutilated and burned in the street," it said. One of the organization's leaders, Fritznel Pierre, told Radio Magik 9 in an interview that the number of casualties was not exhaustive, as the area was difficult to access. Also read: Massacre ordered by gang leader in Haiti claimed over 100 lives, says rights group He reported that henchmen had hunted down old people and voodoo followers living in the Wharf Jeremie section of Cite Soleil between Friday evening and Saturday. "Motorcycle taxi drivers who tried to flee with targeted people were also executed," he said. Voodoo was brought to Haiti by African slaves and is a mainstay of the country's culture. It was banned during French colonial rule and only recognized as an official religion by the Haitian government in 2003. Watch: Haiti Summons French Ambassador Following Macron's "Morons" Remark About Its Leaders × While it incorporates elements of other religious beliefs, including Catholicism, voodoo has been historically attacked by other religions. Haiti has suffered from decades of instability but the situation escalated in February when armed groups launched coordinated attacks in the capital to overthrow then-prime minister Ariel Henry. Gangs now control 80 per cent of the city. Despite a Kenyan-led police support mission, backed by the United States and UN, violence has continued to soar. The UN chief called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the weekend massacre and also reiterated calls for more international support to assist Haitian police in their battle against the gangs. More than 700,000 people are internally displaced in Haiti, half of them children; added to this are 5,000 forced from their homes by the weekend massacre, said the International Organization for Migration. The latest killings bring the death toll this year in Haiti to around 5,000 people, according to the United Nations. 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.

Violence against voodoo community in Haiti: Nearly 200 dead in massacre

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World Human Rights Day, observed every year on December 10, serves as a reminder of the essential values of human dignity, freedom, and equality for all people. This day is not only a time to celebrate the progress made but also to acknowledge the challenges that persist in the ongoing fight to secure these fundamental rights globally.

<h2>World Human Rights Day 2024: Theme&nbsp;</h2>

The theme for World Human Rights Day 2024 is "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" which highlights the importance of human rights in our daily lives.

<h2>History of World Human Rights Day</h2>

The foundation of World Human Rights Day traces back to 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document was the first to affirm the inherent rights of all people, regardless of race, gender, religion, or nationality.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/yesmadams-hr-email-firing-100-employees-to-relieve-their-stress-goes-viral-heres-the-truth-behind-the-post-782865">YesMadam's HR email firing 100 employees to relieve their stress goes viral. Here's the truth behind the post</a>

<h2>Significance of World Human Rights Day</h2>

Human Rights Day is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in a world still plagued by discrimination, violence, and oppression. It calls us to renew our commitment to protecting the rights of the marginalised and oppressed, highlighting issues like racial inequality, gender violence, and attacks on free speech.

<h2>World Human Rights Day 2024: &nbsp;Inspiring quotes&nbsp;</h2>

As we commemorate this important day, the following quotes inspire us to continue to&nbsp;work toward justice, equality and dignity for all.

1. "We have to uphold a free press and freedom of speech- because, in the end, lies and misinformation are no match for the truth." – Barack Obama

2. To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela &nbsp;

3. "Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost." - &nbsp;Thomas Jefferson

4. "Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy." - Walter Cronkite

5. "Whoever would overthrow the liberty of a nation must begin by subduing the freeness of speech."- Benjamin Franklin

6. “Freedom of speech gives us the right to offend others, whereas freedom of thought gives them tachoice as to whether or not to be offended.” - Mokokoma Mokhonoana

7. “Freedom of the &nbsp;press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.” - Walter Cronkite

8. “Freedom of the press is the mortar that binds together the bricks of democracy — and it is also the open window embedded in those bricks.” - Shashi Tharoor

9. "Freedom of the press is a precious privilege that no country can forego." - Mahatma Gandhi

10. “I still believe that if your aim is to change the world, journalism is a more immediate short-term weapon.” - &nbsp;Tom Stoppard

(With inputs from agencies)

World Human Rights Day, observed every year on December 10, serves as a reminder of the essential values of human dignity, freedom, and equality for all people. This day is not only a time to celebrate the progress made but also to acknowledge the challenges that persist in the ongoing fight to secure these fundamental rights globally.

World Human Rights Day, observed every year on December 10, serves as a reminder of the essential values of human dignity, freedom, and equality for all people. This day is not only a time to celebrate the progress made but also to acknowledge the challenges that persist in the ongoing fight to secure these fundamental rights globally. World Human Rights Day 2024: Theme The theme for World Human Rights Day 2024 is "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" which highlights the importance of human rights in our daily lives. History of World Human Rights Day The foundation of World Human Rights Day traces back to 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document was the first to affirm the inherent rights of all people, regardless of race, gender, religion, or nationality. Also read | YesMadam's HR email firing 100 employees to relieve their stress goes viral. Here's the truth behind the post Significance of World Human Rights Day Human Rights Day is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in a world still plagued by discrimination, violence, and oppression. It calls us to renew our commitment to protecting the rights of the marginalised and oppressed, highlighting issues like racial inequality, gender violence, and attacks on free speech. World Human Rights Day 2024: Inspiring quotes As we commemorate this important day, the following quotes inspire us to continue to work toward justice, equality and dignity for all. 1. "We have to uphold a free press and freedom of speech- because, in the end, lies and misinformation are no match for the truth." – Barack Obama 2. To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela 3. "Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost." - Thomas Jefferson 4. "Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy." - Walter Cronkite 5. "Whoever would overthrow the liberty of a nation must begin by subduing the freeness of speech."- Benjamin Franklin 6. “Freedom of speech gives us the right to offend others, whereas freedom of thought gives them tachoice as to whether or not to be offended.” - Mokokoma Mokhonoana 7. “Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.” - Walter Cronkite 8. “Freedom of the press is the mortar that binds together the bricks of democracy — and it is also the open window embedded in those bricks.” - Shashi Tharoor 9. "Freedom of the press is a precious privilege that no country can forego." - Mahatma Gandhi 10. “I still believe that if your aim is to change the world, journalism is a more immediate short-term weapon.” - Tom Stoppard (With inputs from agencies)

World Human Rights Day 2024: Date, history, significance and all you need to know

Israel conducted more than 100 airstrikes targeting military sites in Syria on Monday alone, a war monitor said. Watch this report for more details!

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