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Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Delhi on Saturday to participate in the BRICS Summit 2026. Union minister Jitin Prasada received him at the airport. This will be President Xi's first trip to India in seven years. He is accompanied by senior Chinese officials, including Cai Qi, considered as a close confidant of Xi and a powerful figure in the Communist Party of China.<h2>All about Cai Qi, the 'de facto chief of staff'</h2>&nbsp;Cai Qi, is described as Xi Jinping’s top lieutenant. He is also reported to be the ringleader of an alleged Westminster Chinese spy ring.&nbsp;And though, the 70-year old is the fifth-ranking member on the standing committee of the Chinese Communist party’s (CCP) ruling politburo, he wields immense power that outstrips his senior because as the de facto chief of staff, he is effectively the gatekeeper and right-hand man to Xi himself.&nbsp;Cai Qi is also the first-ranking member of the CPC Secretariat and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, a key administrative and coordination body.&nbsp;He has a Fujian accent, rather than the standardised Mandarin that is largely spoken across the country.&nbsp;Cai Qi and Xi have worked together for more than two decades, both serving in the coastal provinces of Fujian and Zhejiang earlier in their careers. He also serves in the National Security Commission, a secretive body established and led by Xi, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Beijing issued a big statement signaling reset of ties with India. Chinese Envoy Xu Feihong has said that Beijing will work together with India and handle the differences between the two countries under the guidance of the two leaders (Xi and Modi). At the same time, China Southern Airlines announced that it will resume regular passenger services on the Guangzhou-New Delhi route starting September 21.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cai Qi, is described as Xi Jinping’s top lieutenant. He is also the first-ranking member of the CPC Secretariat and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Delhi on Saturday to participate in the BRICS Summit 2026. Union minister Jitin Prasada received him at the airport. This will be President Xi's first trip to India in seven years. He is accompanied by senior Chinese officials, including Cai Qi, considered as a close confidant of Xi and a powerful figure in the Communist Party of China. All about Cai Qi, the 'de facto chief of staff' Cai Qi, is described as Xi Jinping’s top lieutenant. He is also reported to be the ringleader of an alleged Westminster Chinese spy ring. And though, the 70-year old is the fifth-ranking member on the standing committee of the Chinese Communist party’s (CCP) ruling politburo, he wields immense power that outstrips his senior because as the de facto chief of staff, he is effectively the gatekeeper and right-hand man to Xi himself. Cai Qi is also the first-ranking member of the CPC Secretariat and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, a key administrative and coordination body. He has a Fujian accent, rather than the standardised Mandarin that is largely spoken across the country. Cai Qi and Xi have worked together for more than two decades, both serving in the coastal provinces of Fujian and Zhejiang earlier in their careers. He also serves in the National Security Commission, a secretive body established and led by Xi, reports The Guardian. Meanwhile, Beijing issued a big statement signaling reset of ties with India. Chinese Envoy Xu Feihong has said that Beijing will work together with India and handle the differences between the two countries under the guidance of the two leaders (Xi and Modi). At the same time, China Southern Airlines announced that it will resume regular passenger services on the Guangzhou-New Delhi route starting September 21.

Cai Qi, is described as Xi Jinping’s top lieutenant. He is also the first-ranking member of the CPC Secretariat and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee

BRICS Summit: Who is Cai Qi, the right-hand man of Xi Jinping?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim and Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Both Malaysia and Ethiopia expressed their keenness for stronger defence cooperation with India. According to government sources, the countries discussed joint personnel training as well as defence procurement from India was discussed. Both countries welcomed Indian industry and investment with Ethiopia paying special focus on Indian mining companies and Malaysia discussing opportunities in semiconductor.&nbsp;According to MEA, PM Modi welcomed Malaysian PM Ibrahim and appreciated Malaysia’s participation in the BRICS Summit as a Partner Country. The leaders took stock of the outcomes of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Malaysia in February 2026 and reviewed the progress in bilateral cooperation across a range of areas, including trade and investment, defence and security, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital economy, energy, fintech, education, tourism and people-to-people ties, MEA stated in its press release. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed Malaysia’s concurrence to the establishment of Consulate General of India in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. PM Modi also appreciated Malaysia’s continued support in strengthening ASEAN-India relations. The leaders exchanged views on key regional and global issues of mutual interest and expressed their continued commitment to advancing the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Hyderabad House on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026. (Source: DD) <a href="https://t.co/5df6VM3Elf">pic.twitter.com/5df6VM3Elf</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2098642481558745580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>PM Modi meets Ethiopian counterpart</h2>PM Modi and his Ethiopian counterpart held discussions aimed at further strengthening the bilateral Strategic Partnership. They reviewed progress across key sectors, including economic cooperation, defence and security partnership, and capacity building. The two leaders also exchanged perspectives on regional and international developments of mutual interest. They reaffirmed their commitment to close cooperation in multilateral fora. Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for Ethiopia’s participation in the 18th BRICS Summit and noted that its presence helped in reinforcing the collective voice of the Global South.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India and Ethiopia are taking an old friendship into new frontiers! Delighted to welcome PM Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali on his first visit to India. Today’s talks covered: Defence. Capacity building. Investment linkages. Critical minerals. Clean energy. Healthcare.… <a href="https://t.co/V7i1hqAqIu">pic.twitter.com/V7i1hqAqIu</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2098679578734825547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | दिल्ली: प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी ने ब्रिक्स समिट 2026 से इतर हैदराबाद भवन में इथियोपिया के प्रधानमंत्री अबी अहमद अली के साथ द्विपक्षीय बैठक की। (सोर्स : DD) <a href="https://t.co/PTYASnYlnB">pic.twitter.com/PTYASnYlnB</a>&mdash; ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) <a href="https://x.com/AHindinews/status/2098636548380205185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince</h2>PM Modi also held a bilateral meeting with Le Minh Hung, Vietnamese Prime Minister and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan. Vietnam is among the BRICS 10 partner countries. According to the MEA, India and Vietnam share an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, underpinned by longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation expanding across defence and security, fintech, critical minerals and other emerging areas. The two sides continue to work closely on multilateral cooperation. According to Vietnamese broadcaster Voice of Vietnam, the nation looks at the summit as an opportunity to further consolidate and deepen relations with India, as well as strengthen ties with BRICS member states and partner countries. PM Le Minh Hung is expected to share Vietnam's vision and proposals regarding major issues on international cooperation, economic growth, sustainable development, and the resolution of global challenges. Earlier in May, Vietnamese President To Lam paid a State Visit to India, when they agreed to elevate the bilateral relations to Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the spirit of ‘shared vision, strategic convergence, substantive cooperation’, further translating the enormous goodwill into tangible outcomes.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim and Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Defence cooperation, trade, investment and strategic ties were discussed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim and Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Both Malaysia and Ethiopia expressed their keenness for stronger defence cooperation with India. According to government sources, the countries discussed joint personnel training as well as defence procurement from India was discussed. Both countries welcomed Indian industry and investment with Ethiopia paying special focus on Indian mining companies and Malaysia discussing opportunities in semiconductor. According to MEA, PM Modi welcomed Malaysian PM Ibrahim and appreciated Malaysia’s participation in the BRICS Summit as a Partner Country. The leaders took stock of the outcomes of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Malaysia in February 2026 and reviewed the progress in bilateral cooperation across a range of areas, including trade and investment, defence and security, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital economy, energy, fintech, education, tourism and people-to-people ties, MEA stated in its press release. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed Malaysia’s concurrence to the establishment of Consulate General of India in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. PM Modi also appreciated Malaysia’s continued support in strengthening ASEAN-India relations. The leaders exchanged views on key regional and global issues of mutual interest and expressed their continued commitment to advancing the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim and Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Defence cooperation, trade, investment and strategic ties were discussed

BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi meets Malaysia, Ethiopia leaders; defence ties, trade in focus

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi recently went on a three-day official visit to UAE. During this successful trip, he pitched Odisha as a leading destination for global investment, manufacturing and technology. The outreach generated proposed investments worth Rs 2.42 trillion, with an employment potential of 6.18 lakh, the east Indian state's government said in a release.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Engaged with around 400 business leaders and investors at the Odisha Investors Meet in Dubai. We presented Odisha’s strong industrial ecosystem, investor-friendly policies and opportunities across emerging and high-growth sectors, inviting UAE businesses and investors to partner… <a href="https://t.co/QuaMoI88Uk">pic.twitter.com/QuaMoI88Uk</a>&mdash; Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) <a href="https://x.com/MohanMOdisha/status/2098399887742353495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Odisha Investors' Meet held in Dubai; multiple MoUs signed</h2>The Odisha government signed eight MoUs and 16 Investment Intents, following 26 one-to-one meetings and six round-table discussions involving around 160 participants. Major MoUs included those with CAZBAA Project Ventures FZCO, Rana Holdings Limited, Sharaf Group and PTCL Infrastructure. Nearly 400 business leaders and investors attended Odisha Investors’ Meet in Dubai.<h2>From LNG to AI data centres: CM Majhi highlights opportunities in Odisha</h2>CM Majhi said that Odisha showcased opportunities across LNG storage, green energy, AI and data centres, critical minerals and rare earths, steel and downstream industries, processed food, logistics, tourism, chemicals and petrochemicals, ship repair and other emerging sectors.He highlighted Odisha’s natural resources, strategic ports, industrial infrastructure, competitive energy availability, skilled workforce and established industrial ecosystem.&nbsp;Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain reiterated the government’s commitment to “Speed, Certainty and Execution”, assuring investors of proactive support throughout the project lifecycle. The outreach featured high-level engagements with the UAE government, sovereign and institutional stakeholders, including International Holding Company, IBPG and Borouge.<h2>A warm welcome from Odisha diaspora</h2>The CM also received a grand and warm welcome from the Odia diaspora in Dubai, with more than 800 members of the Odia community participating in the special gathering. Members of the Odia community interacted directly with the chief minister and shared their experiences, aspirations and views. They expressed their happiness and pride over the chief minister’s visit and his interaction with the community. Majhi appreciated the strong cultural connect of Odias living in the UAE and lauded their efforts to preserve and promote Odia language, culture and traditions abroad. The gathering reflected the strong emotional bond between the Odia diaspora and their homeland, showcasing Odisha’s culture, traditions and spirit beyond its borders.<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HR_wjmhbEAA1H-G?format=jpg&amp;name=large" alt="Image"></figure>

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s three-day UAE visit generated proposed investments worth Rs 2.42 trillion, with employment potential of 6.18 lakh. The state signed eight MoUs and received 16 investment intents across sectors

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi recently went on a three-day official visit to UAE. During this successful trip, he pitched Odisha as a leading destination for global investment, manufacturing and technology. The outreach generated proposed investments worth Rs 2.42 trillion, with an employment potential of 6.18 lakh, the east Indian state's government said in a release.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s three-day UAE visit generated proposed investments worth Rs 2.42 trillion, with employment potential of 6.18 lakh. The state signed eight MoUs and received 16 investment intents across sectors

Odisha gets investment proposals worth Rs 2.42 trillion from UAE with 6.18 lakh potential jobs

On the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks in the US, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has released more than 70 presidential intelligence briefs related to Al-Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden. The documents clearly shows that CIA repeatedly warned Presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush that Osama bin Laden was determined to strike America. Though the warnings lacked definitive information about precisely how or when the attacks might take place, it came repeatedly for three years before the attack on Sep 11, 2001.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cia-director-met-russian-intelligence-officials-during-secret-moscow-trip-but-trump-calls-it-semi-routine-1787814070157">CIA director met Russian intelligence officials during secret Moscow trip, but Trump calls it 'semi-routine'</a>&nbsp;The release provides "unprecedented transparency on America's most sensitive intelligence publication from the years before and the day after one of the darkest moments in our history," the CIA said in a statement. "The products trace the story of CIA analysts' evolving understanding of Al-Qaeda and efforts to highlight and warn of Osama bin Laden's attack plotting despite sparse, vague, and imperfect information," it said. “Americans can now see for themselves the intelligence leading up to this tragic day for our Nation,” CIA Director John Ratcliffe said. The documents amount to more than 100 pages.&nbsp;The documents cover a period starting during Bill Clinton's presidency and continue into that of George W Bush, who was in office when the attack happened. 19 Al-Qaeda operatives&nbsp;hijacked four airliners. Two jets hit the World Trade Center's Twin Towers, causing the iconic skyscrapers to collapse. A third struck the Pentagon, while a fourth believed to have been aiming for Congress or the White House -- crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers fought back. Soon after, the US invaded Afghanistan and later Iraq as part of the "War on Terror" after 9/11.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-us-bases-in-gulf-not-viable-after-iran-attack-ex-cia-chief-petraeus-makes-big-claim-1788690938804">Are US bases in Gulf 'not viable' after Iran attack? Ex-CIA chief Petraeus makes BIG claim</a><h2>What the documents show?</h2>

A September 10, 1998 brief -- parts of which were redacted -- said that Al-Qaeda “may fly an explosive-packed airplane into a US city.” The same memo stated that “intelligence provides no conclusive information on bin Ladin’s intentions for future attacks.” Another dated December 4, 1998, which also contained redactions, said bin Laden "and his allies are preparing for attacks in the US, including an aircraft hijacking."&nbsp;&nbsp;In August 1998, al-Qaeda attacked US embassies in both Kenya and Tanzania, killing 224 people and prompting the US to strike targets in Afghanistan and Sudan with cruise missiles. One document dated 28 August 1998 - 21 days after the embassy attacks and eight days after the US retaliation - warned that the network remained intact and that Bin Laden was actively "considering attacks in the US".&nbsp;Another memo after failed attempt by the Clinton administration to kill the Al Qaeda leader with Tomahawk missile strikes in Afghanistan and Sudan stated the group 'remains intact' and militants were training to ‘hijack commercial airliners, experimenting with crude chemical or other unconventional weapons, doing dry runs to test US airport security, plotting to take hostages and trafficking narcotics to fund terrorism plans.’&nbsp;An intelligence brief from March 26, 2001 also said that “Taliban is not likely to give up bin Ladin for less than full diplomatic recognition and significant reconstruction aid. On Aug. 6, 2001, just one month before the attack, the CIA sent a note to the president, titled: “bin Ladin determined to strike in US.” “Clandestine, foreign government, and media reports indicate bin Ladin since 1997 has wanted to conduct terrorist attacks in the US,” the briefing stated.

Newly released CIA intelligence briefs show that US presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush were repeatedly warned about Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda’s plans to attack America years before 9/11. The warnings included possible aircraft hijackings and attacks involving US cities.

On the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks in the US, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has released more than 70 presidential intelligence briefs related to Al-Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden. The documents clearly shows that CIA repeatedly warned Presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush that Osama bin Laden was determined to strike America. Though the warnings lacked definitive information about precisely how or when the attacks might take place, it came repeatedly for three years before the attack on Sep 11, 2001. Also Read: CIA director met Russian intelligence officials during secret Moscow trip, but Trump calls it 'semi-routine' The release provides "unprecedented transparency on America's most sensitive intelligence publication from the years before and the day after one of the darkest moments in our history," the CIA said in a statement. "The products trace the story of CIA analysts' evolving understanding of Al-Qaeda and efforts to highlight and warn of Osama bin Laden's attack plotting despite sparse, vague, and imperfect information," it said. “Americans can now see for themselves the intelligence leading up to this tragic day for our Nation,” CIA Director John Ratcliffe said. The documents amount to more than 100 pages. The documents cover a period starting during Bill Clinton's presidency and continue into that of George W Bush, who was in office when the attack happened. 19 Al-Qaeda operatives hijacked four airliners. Two jets hit the World Trade Center's Twin Towers, causing the iconic skyscrapers to collapse. A third struck the Pentagon, while a fourth believed to have been aiming for Congress or the White House -- crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers fought back. Soon after, the US invaded Afghanistan and later Iraq as part of the "War on Terror" after 9/11. Also Read: Are US bases in Gulf 'not viable' after Iran attack? Ex-CIA chief Petraeus makes BIG claim What the documents show?

Newly released CIA intelligence briefs show that US presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush were repeatedly warned about Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda’s plans to attack America years before 9/11. The warnings included possible aircraft hijackings and attacks involving US cities.

Years before 9/11, CIA warned Clinton, Bush of 'explosive-packed airplane attack': What newly released files reveal

Can Nigerians trust the count? That question sat at the heart of a Lagos summit this week, as policymakers, regulators, and tech innovators wrestled with how to rebuild public confidence in the country's electoral process before the 2027 general elections.&nbsp;The Nigeria e-Government Summit and Awards, held Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Radisson Blu in GRA, Lagos, brought together government officials, technologists, and civil society under the theme "Mainstreaming Technologies in Nigeria Election Management." The message from the stage was consistent: technology alone won't save Nigeria's elections; trust will.<h3>A Summit With a Track Record</h3>In his welcome address, Convener and Chairman of the summit, Engr. Lanre Ajayi, noted that the gathering has, over the years, shaped policy conversations, influenced the adoption of digital identity systems, accelerated internally generated revenue (IGR) sensitisation across states, and championed broadband expansion. The summit, he said, exists "not merely to discuss ideas but to forge partnerships, drive commitment and galvanise actions."&nbsp;With election season approaching, Ajayi called the timing of this year's theme "timely, relevant and cogent.""With elections scheduled across multiple states, the nation's political attention is sharply focused on how votes are cast, counted and protected," he said. "The question of technology in election management is not an academic one. It is a question that will determine whether Nigerians trust the outcomes of elections that shape their lives, their livelihood and their futures."&nbsp;He pointed to recent electoral experiences across Africa as evidence of technology's transformative power — particularly biometric voter registration, which has helped eliminate multiple registrations. The consensus among stakeholders was clear: the debate is no longer *whether* technology belongs in election management, but *how* to mainstream it to deliver what many called an "independent, trusted, comprehensive and citizens-endorsed electoral future."<h3>Blockchain, AI, and the Ghost of 2023</h3>One of the summit's lead papers, delivered by Dr Emmanuel Olarewaju Ayoola, President of the Information Technology Association of Nigeria (ITAN), zeroed in on two technologies he believes hold the greatest promise: Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence.&nbsp;Ayoola described blockchain as the ideal tool for election management — a tamper-evident ledger that anchors each result sheet the moment it's captured, making any alteration instantly detectable. He argued it could push Nigeria beyond the current Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) toward a fully verifiable auditing standard.He drew on international precedent to make his case:&nbsp;- Estonia's KSI Blockchain has secured the country's national e-voting portal for two decades, with over 400,000 Estonians voting remotely as recently as 2023.&nbsp;- Sierra Leone used a blockchain shadow tally as early as 2018.&nbsp;NAFDAC's Link platform** has verified more than 10,000 shareholder votes annually via blockchain since 2015.Tracing Nigeria's own trajectory — from Smart Card Readers in 2015, to BVAS, to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) rolled out between 2019 and 2023 — Ayoola pushed back on the narrative that the country is starting from scratch.&nbsp;"The IReV portal had carried over 100 elections and by-elections before 2023, with more than 16 million voters already using it," he said. "What failed in 2023 was the real-time transmission of results at a volume of over half a million result sheets — greater than anything the portal had previously handled."&nbsp;He attributed the breakdown primarily to transmission and logistics failures under unprecedented load, compounded by lost or damaged devices and connectivity gaps in parts of the country.&nbsp;Still, Ayoola was careful not to oversell either technology. "They require a trusted digital identity foundation," he cautioned. "AI is capable of imagining its own reality and communicating it as fact. This is a major potential problem when bringing AI into an electoral process. It is not, however, an insurmountable problem."<h3>&nbsp;Government Voices Echo the Trust Mandate</h3>Keynote speakers Dr Vincent Olatunji and a representative of NITDA, Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, backed Ayoola's assessment. The NITDA representative urged tech stakeholders to fully support initiatives strengthening INEC, including public sensitisation campaigns on using technology to shape the country's future.&nbsp;State-level officials brought a more operational lens to the conversation. Associate Professor Justin Beshel, Cross River State's Commissioner for Science and Technology, argued that the real issue isn't the technology itself but ensuring it holds up as legally sound, effective, and admissible evidence.&nbsp;"Trust must be built in technology because if the people don't have trust in technology, they can see it as a way of trying to subvert," Beshel said. "In Cross River, clearance is collected from the Ministry of Science and Technology to ensure all state digital infrastructure is in place. Government goes beyond technology — we should also look at the issue of operations."&nbsp;Enugu State's representative revealed that all cameras across the state are now AI-enabled, aimed at cracking down on ballot box hijackers. Anambra's Special Advisor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Chinwe Okoli, echoed the summit's central refrain: "Without trust, even the most sophisticated technology will fail."Okoli added that embedding security into electronic devices enables real-time monitoring, part of a broader push to address the many faces of verification challenges in the electoral process.<h3>Innovation on Display</h3>Beyond the policy discussions, the summit hosted an exhibition floor featuring tech companies including LinkorgNet, Smart Invite, and ntel. A representative from ntel, Temi, used the platform to spotlight two of the company's digital offerings: *Waka Go*, a travel e-SIM with pay-as-you-go and package plans starting at ₦13,000 annually, and *n Fibre*.The event closed with an Awards Ceremony honouring dignitaries and government parastatals who have shaped the growth of Nigeria's technology sector, with Edo and Cross River states topping the chart.<h3>The Road Ahead</h3>As Nigeria counts down to its next electoral cycle, the summit's takeaway was less about any single technology and more about the ecosystem required to make it trustworthy: infrastructure, policy, and — above all — public confidence. Without that trust, stakeholders warned, even the most advanced electoral systems risk repeating the failures of the past.

Convener and Chairman of the summit noted that the gathering has, over the years, shaped policy conversations, influenced the adoption of digital identity systems, accelerated internally generated revenue (IGR) sensitisation across states, and championed broadband expansion.

Can Nigerians trust the count? That question sat at the heart of a Lagos summit this week, as policymakers, regulators, and tech innovators wrestled with how to rebuild public confidence in the country's electoral process before the 2027 general elections. The Nigeria e-Government Summit and Awards, held Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Radisson Blu in GRA, Lagos, brought together government officials, technologists, and civil society under the theme "Mainstreaming Technologies in Nigeria Election Management." The message from the stage was consistent: technology alone won't save Nigeria's elections; trust will. A Summit With a Track Record In his welcome address, Convener and Chairman of the summit, Engr. Lanre Ajayi, noted that the gathering has, over the years, shaped policy conversations, influenced the adoption of digital identity systems, accelerated internally generated revenue (IGR) sensitisation across states, and championed broadband expansion. The summit, he said, exists "not merely to discuss ideas but to forge partnerships, drive commitment and galvanise actions." With election season approaching, Ajayi called the timing of this year's theme "timely, relevant and cogent." "With elections scheduled across multiple states, the nation's political attention is sharply focused on how votes are cast, counted and protected," he said. "The question of technology in election management is not an academic one. It is a question that will determine whether Nigerians trust the outcomes of elections that shape their lives, their livelihood and their futures." He pointed to recent electoral experiences across Africa as evidence of technology's transformative power — particularly biometric voter registration, which has helped eliminate multiple registrations. The consensus among stakeholders was clear: the debate is no longer *whether* technology belongs in election management, but *how* to mainstream it to deliver what many called an "independent, trusted, comprehensive and citizens-endorsed electoral future." Blockchain, AI, and the Ghost of 2023 One of the summit's lead papers, delivered by Dr Emmanuel Olarewaju Ayoola, President of the Information Technology Association of Nigeria (ITAN), zeroed in on two technologies he believes hold the greatest promise: Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence. Ayoola described blockchain as the ideal tool for election management — a tamper-evident ledger that anchors each result sheet the moment it's captured, making any alteration instantly detectable. He argued it could push Nigeria beyond the current Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) toward a fully verifiable auditing standard. He drew on international precedent to make his case: - Estonia's KSI Blockchain has secured the country's national e-voting portal for two decades, with over 400,000 Estonians voting remotely as recently as 2023. - Sierra Leone used a blockchain shadow tally as early as 2018. NAFDAC's Link platform** has verified more than 10,000 shareholder votes annually via blockchain since 2015. Tracing Nigeria's own trajectory — from Smart Card Readers in 2015, to BVAS, to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) rolled out between 2019 and 2023 — Ayoola pushed back on the narrative that the country is starting from scratch. "The IReV portal had carried over 100 elections and by-elections before 2023, with more than 16 million voters already using it," he said. "What failed in 2023 was the real-time transmission of results at a volume of over half a million result sheets — greater than anything the portal had previously handled." He attributed the breakdown primarily to transmission and logistics failures under unprecedented load, compounded by lost or damaged devices and connectivity gaps in parts of the country. Still, Ayoola was careful not to oversell either technology. "They require a trusted digital identity foundation," he cautioned. "AI is capable of imagining its own reality and communicating it as fact. This is a major potential problem when bringing AI into an electoral process. It is not, however, an insurmountable problem." Government Voices Echo the Trust Mandate Keynote speakers Dr Vincent Olatunji and a representative of NITDA, Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, backed Ayoola's assessment. The NITDA representative urged tech stakeholders to fully support initiatives strengthening INEC, including public sensitisation campaigns on using technology to shape the country's future. State-level officials brought a more operational lens to the conversation. Associate Professor Justin Beshel, Cross River State's Commissioner for Science and Technology, argued that the real issue isn't the technology itself but ensuring it holds up as legally sound, effective, and admissible evidence. "Trust must be built in technology because if the people don't have trust in technology, they can see it as a way of trying to subvert," Beshel said. "In Cross River, clearance is collected from the Ministry of Science and Technology to ensure all state digital infrastructure is in place. Government goes beyond technology — we should also look at the issue of operations." Enugu State's representative revealed that all cameras across the state are now AI-enabled, aimed at cracking down on ballot box hijackers. Anambra's Special Advisor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Chinwe Okoli, echoed the summit's central refrain: "Without trust, even the most sophisticated technology will fail." Okoli added that embedding security into electronic devices enables real-time monitoring, part of a broader push to address the many faces of verification challenges in the electoral process. Innovation on Display Beyond the policy discussions, the summit hosted an exhibition floor featuring tech companies including LinkorgNet, Smart Invite, and ntel. A representative from ntel, Temi, used the platform to spotlight two of the company's digital offerings: *Waka Go*, a travel e-SIM with pay-as-you-go and package plans starting at ₦13,000 annually, and *n Fibre*. The event closed with an Awards Ceremony honouring dignitaries and government parastatals who have shaped the growth of Nigeria's technology sector, with Edo and Cross River states topping the chart. The Road Ahead As Nigeria counts down to its next electoral cycle, the summit's takeaway was less about any single technology and more about the ecosystem required to make it trustworthy: infrastructure, policy, and — above all — public confidence. Without that trust, stakeholders warned, even the most advanced electoral systems risk repeating the failures of the past.

Convener and Chairman of the summit noted that the gathering has, over the years, shaped policy conversations, influenced the adoption of digital identity systems, accelerated internally generated revenue (IGR) sensitisation across states, and championed broadband expansion.

From Voter Data to Vote Count: Nigeria's Tech Leaders Demand Trust and Protection Ahead of 2027

On the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks in the US, Al-Qaeda has released a 50-minute propaganda video featuring previously unseen footage of Hamza bin Laden, the son of the group's founder Osama bin Laden. The footage was released by media Al-Qaeda's wing As-Sahab. Al-Qaeda, which never publicly confirmed his death, shared a video of Hamza titled ‘A Quarter Century of the 11 September Raids.’ The footage also features unseen images of former al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri. It is unclear if the video is AI generated or old footage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-inside-operation-neptune-spear-the-night-osama-bin-laden-was-hunted-down-and-killed-in-9-minutes-complete-timeline-1777686784620">Inside Operation Neptune Spear: The night Osama bin Laden was hunted down and killed in 9 minutes. Complete timeline</a><h2>US said Hamza was dead</h2>In 2019, the White House confirmed that Hamza Bin Laden was killed in the backyard of Pakistan. The White House statement released on September 14, 2019 stated that he was killed by the United States' counter-terrorism operation in Afghanistan-Pakistan region. The statement&nbsp;further added that the elimination of Osama's son 'deprives Al-Qaeda of important leadership skills'. The statement added that he was responsible for various terrorist activities and dealt with various terror groups. The United States had identified him as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist" on January 2017.&nbsp;Before official confirmation, US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper declared that Hamza had been killed but remained tightlipped on being asked about further details. Citing US intelligence officials, US media then reported that Hamza had died sometime in the last two years in an operation involving the US. Aged about 30 years old back then, Hamza&nbsp;was the 15th son of the Al Qaeda founder Osama Bin Laden. According to White House, Hamza was ‘emerging as a leader in the Al Qaeda franchise’, had married the daughter of&nbsp;Abu Muhammad Al-Masri, who was indicted for his alleged involvement in the 1998 bombings of the US Embassy in&nbsp;Tanzania and Kenya.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-sindoor-no-need-to-remind-who-called-osama-bin-laden-martyr-where-was-he-found-india-exposes-pakistan-home-to-terrorist-9048803"> 'No need to remind who called Bin Laden martyr &amp; where was he found': India exposes Pakistan - ‘home to terrorist’</a>&nbsp;But in 2024, it was reported that he had taken over the reins of al-Qaeda and is planning to carry out attacks in the West. Daily Mail quoted defence experts saying that Hamza bin Laden is alive and secretly running the terror organisation. "[Hamza] has ascended to the leadership of al-Qaeda, steering [it] towards its most potent resurgence since the Iraq War," the reports said.&nbsp;Osama bin Laden was killed on 2 May 2011 in Abbottabad, Pakistan but at that time his son was not found in the compound. He was believed to be in house arrest in Iran. In 2015, Hamza&nbsp;called for attacks against US, French and Israeli interests. His last known statement came in March 2018, where he called on the people of the Arabian peninsula to revolt against the current regime in Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia revoked Hamza's citizenship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Al-Qaeda has released a 50-minute propaganda video marking 25 years since the September 11 attacks, featuring previously unseen footage of Hamza bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri. The release has revived questions over Hamza’s fate after the US said Osama bin Laden’s son was killed in 2019.

On the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks in the US, Al-Qaeda has released a 50-minute propaganda video featuring previously unseen footage of Hamza bin Laden, the son of the group's founder Osama bin Laden. The footage was released by media Al-Qaeda's wing As-Sahab. Al-Qaeda, which never publicly confirmed his death, shared a video of Hamza titled ‘A Quarter Century of the 11 September Raids.’ The footage also features unseen images of former al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri. It is unclear if the video is AI generated or old footage. Also Read: Inside Operation Neptune Spear: The night Osama bin Laden was hunted down and killed in 9 minutes. Complete timeline US said Hamza was dead In 2019, the White House confirmed that Hamza Bin Laden was killed in the backyard of Pakistan. The White House statement released on September 14, 2019 stated that he was killed by the United States' counter-terrorism operation in Afghanistan-Pakistan region. The statement further added that the elimination of Osama's son 'deprives Al-Qaeda of important leadership skills'. The statement added that he was responsible for various terrorist activities and dealt with various terror groups. The United States had identified him as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist" on January 2017. Before official confirmation, US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper declared that Hamza had been killed but remained tightlipped on being asked about further details. Citing US intelligence officials, US media then reported that Hamza had died sometime in the last two years in an operation involving the US. Aged about 30 years old back then, Hamza was the 15th son of the Al Qaeda founder Osama Bin Laden. According to White House, Hamza was ‘emerging as a leader in the Al Qaeda franchise’, had married the daughter of Abu Muhammad Al-Masri, who was indicted for his alleged involvement in the 1998 bombings of the US Embassy in Tanzania and Kenya. Also Read: 'No need to remind who called Bin Laden martyr & where was he found': India exposes Pakistan - ‘home to terrorist’ But in 2024, it was reported that he had taken over the reins of al-Qaeda and is planning to carry out attacks in the West. Daily Mail quoted defence experts saying that Hamza bin Laden is alive and secretly running the terror organisation. "[Hamza] has ascended to the leadership of al-Qaeda, steering [it] towards its most potent resurgence since the Iraq War," the reports said. Osama bin Laden was killed on 2 May 2011 in Abbottabad, Pakistan but at that time his son was not found in the compound. He was believed to be in house arrest in Iran. In 2015, Hamza called for attacks against US, French and Israeli interests. His last known statement came in March 2018, where he called on the people of the Arabian peninsula to revolt against the current regime in Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia revoked Hamza's citizenship.

Al-Qaeda has released a 50-minute propaganda video marking 25 years since the September 11 attacks, featuring previously unseen footage of Hamza bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri. The release has revived questions over Hamza’s fate after the US said Osama bin Laden’s son was killed in 2019.

Osama Bin Laden's son ALIVE? Al-Qaeda releases video 7 years after US declared him dead

From 2019 to August 2026, Israel has spent nearly $470,000 on hair styling, makeup, and official representation expenses for its prime ministers both domestically and abroad. The data were revealed by the 'Israeli' Prime Minister's Office after a Freedom of Information request was filed in December 2025 by attorney Yaara Winkler-Shalit.&nbsp;The report indicated that Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara were responsible for approximately 90 per cent of the total hair and makeup expenditures. In multiple documents, specific details, including the prime minister's personal hairstylists' and makeup artists' names, were redacted on grounds of alleged "state security". The data gave specific monthly breakdowns, along with the period surrounding the outbreak of war in late 2023. It revealed that the state paid nearly $2,600 for the prime minister's hair styling and $1,580 for makeup services between September and November in 2023.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/25-years-after-9-11-how-america-and-world-remembered-nearly-3-000-lives-lost-in-pics-1789187059061">25 years after 9/11: How America and world remembered nearly 3,000 lives lost - IN PICS</a> Records show that in October 2023 alone, $810 was spent specifically on the prime minister's hair styling. Overall spending varied widely by administration; total costs reached about $103,000 in 2023, compared to just $27,600 in 2022 under Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid. Spending peaked in 2025 at roughly $111,000, driven largely by overseas trips, including a February 2025 Washington visit costing $13,500 in makeup and styling, and a July 2024 Washington trip costing $11,500. Separately, official representation allowances, covering clothing and hosting costs, were broken down by leader: Netanyahu ($134,000), Bennett ($19,000), and Lapid ($2,600). Meanwhile, the government did not disclose data on jewellery, clothing, or image consulting, despite a request from the Movement for Freedom of Information.

Data indicates that the state paid nearly $2,600 for the prime minister's hair styling and $1,580 for makeup services between September and November in 2023.

From 2019 to August 2026, Israel has spent nearly $470,000 on hair styling, makeup, and official representation expenses for its prime ministers both domestically and abroad. The data were revealed by the 'Israeli' Prime Minister's Office after a Freedom of Information request was filed in December 2025 by attorney Yaara Winkler-Shalit. The report indicated that Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara were responsible for approximately 90 per cent of the total hair and makeup expenditures. In multiple documents, specific details, including the prime minister's personal hairstylists' and makeup artists' names, were redacted on grounds of alleged "state security". The data gave specific monthly breakdowns, along with the period surrounding the outbreak of war in late 2023. It revealed that the state paid nearly $2,600 for the prime minister's hair styling and $1,580 for makeup services between September and November in 2023. Also read: 25 years after 9/11: How America and world remembered nearly 3,000 lives lost - IN PICS Records show that in October 2023 alone, $810 was spent specifically on the prime minister's hair styling. Overall spending varied widely by administration; total costs reached about $103,000 in 2023, compared to just $27,600 in 2022 under Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid. Spending peaked in 2025 at roughly $111,000, driven largely by overseas trips, including a February 2025 Washington visit costing $13,500 in makeup and styling, and a July 2024 Washington trip costing $11,500. Separately, official representation allowances, covering clothing and hosting costs, were broken down by leader: Netanyahu ($134,000), Bennett ($19,000), and Lapid ($2,600). Meanwhile, the government did not disclose data on jewellery, clothing, or image consulting, despite a request from the Movement for Freedom of Information.

Data indicates that the state paid nearly $2,600 for the prime minister's hair styling and $1,580 for makeup services between September and November in 2023.

Israel spent nearly $470,000 on PM's hair, makeup since 2019, data shows

The US markedthe  25th anniversary of 9/11 with ceremonies in Manhattan, Shanksville and the Pentagon. Former presidents attended the Ground Zero event; they read, and everyone observed silence. 

The US marked the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with ceremonies in Manhattan, Shanksville and the Pentagon. Former presidents attended the Ground Zero event; they read, and everyone observed silence.&nbsp;

25 years after 9/11: How America and world remembered nearly 3,000 lives lost - IN PICS

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet in New Delhi today on the sidelines of BRIC Summit that will officially open today. As Chinese President Jinping left Beijing, the country issued a big statement signalling reset of ties. China’s Envoy Xu Feihong has said that Beijing will work together with India and handle the differences between the two countries under the guidance of the two leaders. At the same time, China Southern Airlines announced that it will resume regular passenger services on the Guangzhou-New Delhi route starting September 21. This marks the relaunch of China Southern's India service after a six-year suspension. Following the restart, the airline will run over 100 weekly flights across its eight round-trip routes in South Asia, the carrier said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-modi-guterres-discuss-west-asia-ukraine-and-un-reforms-1789149159261">BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms</a>&nbsp;“China and India are arranging for the bilateral meeting between President Xi and Prime Minister Modi. This will be the third year in a row for the two leaders to meet with each other, following their meetings in Kazan and Tianjin,” the ambassador said. “China will work with India to act on the strategic guidance of the two leaders, handle the bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, step up communication, enhance cooperation, properly handle differences, and be friends enjoying good-neighbourliness and partners helping each other succeed,” he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-brics-summit-2026-live-new-delhi-modi-putin-xi-iran-us-russia-ukraine-dollar-china-global-south-brics-live-updates-1789172488383/amp">BRICS Summit 2026 LIVE Updates here</a>&nbsp;The Chinese leader is visiting India in seven years and the latest steps are efforts to stabilise ties after the 2020 Ladakh crisis. Xi last visited India in 2019, months before the military confrontation in eastern Ladakh pushed bilateral relations to their lowest point in decades. According to Xinhua, Xi's entourage includes Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chinese foreign minister.

Ahead of the expected Modi-Xi meeting at the BRICS Summit, China envoy Xu Feihong said Beijing will work with India to strengthen cooperation and properly handle differences. Xi Jinping has arrived in New Delhi for his first India visit in seven years, as ties recover 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet in New Delhi today on the sidelines of BRIC Summit that will officially open today. As Chinese President Jinping left Beijing, the country issued a big statement signalling reset of ties. China’s Envoy Xu Feihong has said that Beijing will work together with India and handle the differences between the two countries under the guidance of the two leaders. At the same time, China Southern Airlines announced that it will resume regular passenger services on the Guangzhou-New Delhi route starting September 21. This marks the relaunch of China Southern's India service after a six-year suspension. Following the restart, the airline will run over 100 weekly flights across its eight round-trip routes in South Asia, the carrier said. Also Read: BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms “China and India are arranging for the bilateral meeting between President Xi and Prime Minister Modi. This will be the third year in a row for the two leaders to meet with each other, following their meetings in Kazan and Tianjin,” the ambassador said. “China will work with India to act on the strategic guidance of the two leaders, handle the bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, step up communication, enhance cooperation, properly handle differences, and be friends enjoying good-neighbourliness and partners helping each other succeed,” he added. BRICS Summit 2026 LIVE Updates here The Chinese leader is visiting India in seven years and the latest steps are efforts to stabilise ties after the 2020 Ladakh crisis. Xi last visited India in 2019, months before the military confrontation in eastern Ladakh pushed bilateral relations to their lowest point in decades. According to Xinhua, Xi's entourage includes Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chinese foreign minister.

Ahead of the expected Modi-Xi meeting at the BRICS Summit, China envoy Xu Feihong said Beijing will work with India to strengthen cooperation and properly handle differences. Xi Jinping has arrived in New Delhi for his first India visit in seven years, as ties recover&nbsp;

BRICS Summit: China resumes Guangzhou-New Delhi flight, issues 'good-neighbourliness' remark ahead of Xi-Modi meet

South African police are set to extradite six Nigerian nationals to the United States as they are suspected of ​being members of the Black Axe ‌organised crime syndicate involved in alleged online romance scams and cyberfraud, police said on Friday (Saturday). These individuals are wanted in the ​US by FBI agents on charges of money laundering and defrauding ​more than 100 women. The accused men reported defrauding the women in the US ​of more than 100 million rand ($6.2 million) ​using online romance scams, according to South Africa's elite Hawks police unit. The six Nigerian nationals were ​arrested in ​South Africa ⁠in 2021. The syndicate Black Axe is a Nigerian mafia-style gang tied to human trafficking, internet fraud and murder.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-missiles-toward-sea-but-us-says-no-immediate-threat-1789172294113">North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says ‘does not pose immediate threat’</a><h3>Fraud, money-laundering charges</h3>They will be handed over to officials from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation and the US Secret Service on Friday afternoon at Cape Town International Airport, according to the Hawks. She added that they would face wire fraud and money-laundering charges once they arrive in the US. This extradition follows the arrest of other suspected Black Axe members in Switzerland and Spain earlier this year. The Hawks police unit also stated that among their reported victims were pensioners and businesspeople, who were targeted through elaborate online relationships designed to defraud them of their money.&nbsp;The group, Black Axe rosed from ​a student fraternity in the late 1970s called the Neo ‌Black ⁠Movement of Africa. Since then, the syndicate has evolved into a structured, violent criminal organisation frequently dealing in financial cybercrime.&nbsp;FBI launched operations against Black Axe in November 2019 and September 2021. Over 35 individuals were charged with multi-million-dollar internet fraud. Since then, there have been multiple other operations in several countries targeting Black Axe, in coordination with the global policing agency Interpol.

The Hawks police unit confirmed that among their reported victims were pensioners and businesspeople, who were targeted through elaborate online relationships designed to defraud them of their money.

South African police are set to extradite six Nigerian nationals to the United States as they are suspected of being members of the Black Axe ‌organised crime syndicate involved in alleged online romance scams and cyberfraud, police said on Friday (Saturday). These individuals are wanted in the US by FBI agents on charges of money laundering and defrauding more than 100 women. The accused men reported defrauding the women in the US of more than 100 million rand ($6.2 million) using online romance scams, according to South Africa's elite Hawks police unit. The six Nigerian nationals were arrested in South Africa ⁠in 2021. The syndicate Black Axe is a Nigerian mafia-style gang tied to human trafficking, internet fraud and murder. Also read: North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says ‘does not pose immediate threat’ Fraud, money-laundering charges They will be handed over to officials from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation and the US Secret Service on Friday afternoon at Cape Town International Airport, according to the Hawks. She added that they would face wire fraud and money-laundering charges once they arrive in the US. This extradition follows the arrest of other suspected Black Axe members in Switzerland and Spain earlier this year. The Hawks police unit also stated that among their reported victims were pensioners and businesspeople, who were targeted through elaborate online relationships designed to defraud them of their money. The group, Black Axe rosed from a student fraternity in the late 1970s called the Neo ‌Black ⁠Movement of Africa. Since then, the syndicate has evolved into a structured, violent criminal organisation frequently dealing in financial cybercrime. FBI launched operations against Black Axe in November 2019 and September 2021. Over 35 individuals were charged with multi-million-dollar internet fraud. Since then, there have been multiple other operations in several countries targeting Black Axe, in coordination with the global policing agency Interpol.

The Hawks police unit confirmed that among their reported victims were pensioners and businesspeople, who were targeted through elaborate online relationships designed to defraud them of their money.

South Africa to extradite 6 Nigerians to US over online romance scams

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with prominent Indian religious leaders, intellectuals, and business executives at an event held at the Oberoi Hotel in New Delhi after praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Organized on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026, this gathering served as a core platform for Iran's cultural outreach and people-to-people diplomacy in India. Among the attendees was All Parties Hurriyat Conference President Mirwaiz Umar Farooq who delivered a strong appeal for peace, diplomacy, and justice after the meeting. Kashmir's Shia clerics Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al Safavi, Imran Reza Ansari, Jain guru and interfaith leader Acharya Lokesh Muni, among others were also present.&nbsp;The presence of Mirwaiz is particularly important as Kashmir has often been the subject of tensions between India and Iran. In 2019, after India revoked Article 370, then Supreme Leader of Iran - Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had publicly expressed concern over the situation of Muslims in the region. India had issued a sharp response. He had also commented on the Northeast Delhi riots in 2020, and in 2024, referred to Muslims in India alongside those in Gaza, saying: “We cannot consider ourselves to be Muslims if we are oblivious to the suffering that a Muslim is enduring in #Myanmar, #Gaza, #India, or any other place." On every occasions, India has issued sharp responses but overall India and Iran maintained balanced bilateral relations.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Masoud Pezeshkian, who is in New Delhi to attend the 18th BRICS Summit, met with a group of Indian religious leaders, intellectuals and businesspeople on Friday evening, 20 Shahrivar 1405. <a href="https://t.co/qyNxBk8oQx">pic.twitter.com/qyNxBk8oQx</a>&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://x.com/Iran_in_India/status/2098484988798992839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said?</h2>Speaking with ANI after a high-level gathering, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq highlighted the critical need for global stability. "The most significant message must be one of peace," Mirwaiz said. "Peace can only be established when there is justice. What is happening in Iran today is absolutely wrong—specifically, the way America has imposed a war upon them. Furthermore, the events unfolding in Palestine and Lebanon are creating a chaotic situation globally that needs to be resolved," Mirwaiz said. Speaking in line with PM Modi's message, he said, “We feel that the present era is one for dialogue and diplomacy, not for war. Therefore, everyone who believes in human values must emphasise that the time has come to end wars and embrace peace and dialogue; this is the only way to resolve the catastrophic situation that has arisen on a global scale.” He also attended an exhibition commemorating the children killed in Minab.<h2>What others said?&nbsp;</h2>"All eyes are on India. During the BRICS summit taking place here, I extended an invitation to the President of Iran, proposing that we hold a first-of-its-kind peace summit in Iran," Acharya Lokesh Muni stated. "This is because we, as religious leaders, believe that war, violence, and terror are not solutions to any problem; every issue can be resolved through discussion, dialogue, and the pursuit of peace... That is why I invited the President of Iran, and it gives me immense joy to say that he graciously accepted the invitation. Very soon, we—religious leaders together with peace-loving forces from across the globe—will gather on a single platform. We will strive to bring peace to the world through dialogue and discussion," he added.&nbsp;Haji Syed Salman Chishty, Gaddi Nashin of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, reaffirmed India's commitment to global harmony, justice, and universal brotherhood on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. "Today, as part of the BRICS Summit, all the spiritual leaders across India are here, and the message has always been there from Kashmir to Kanniyakumari, for centuries after centuries, that love for everyone, and hatred for no one," Haji Syed Salman Chishty stated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/brics-summit-2026-bharat-mandapam-goes-quiet-before-brics-summit-chaos-1789179604759">BRICS Summit 2026: Bharat Mandapam goes quiet before BRICS summit chaos</a><h2>Modi-Pezeshkian meet</h2>The Indian government, in a statement said that PM Narendra Modi met President Pezeshkian and continued the discussions from their meeting on the sidelines of SCO Summit in Bishkek. PM thanked Iran for its active participation in BRICS-related meetings including in the BRICS Business Forum. PM reiterated India’s call for conflicts to be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation &amp; commerce and ensuring safety and wellbeing of seafarers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-first-iranian-president-visit-to-india-in-8-years-amid-west-asia-war-1789142684304">BRICS Summit 2026: First Iranian President visit to India in 8 years</a>&nbsp;<blockquote>Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Pezeshkian praised India's efforts to strengthen cooperation among member nations. He thanked India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making "valuable efforts" to strengthen cooperation amongst the members of the grouping. "I would like to sincerely thank the friendly government and people of India for the graciously hosting of this meeting, as well as the Honourable Prime Minister of India for his valuable efforts to strengthen BRICS cooperation," Pezeshkian stated.</blockquote>On West Asia war, Pezeshkian said that economic security remains inseparable from national and regional security. "Economic security is inseparable from national and regional security, and whenever a country's trade, energy, infrastructure, or financial system is under political-military pressure, its effects will go beyond that country's borders," Pezeshkian was quoted as saying at the event by Iran's leading Mehr news agency. "Disruptions in supply chains and the increasing use of economic tools to exert political pressure have made the economic environment of countries more complex. The question is, what is the BRICS response to these problems?" he added. The Iranian President mentioned that Tehran believes that the true power of BRICS is not limited to the economic size of its members, but becomes more evident when these capacities are transformed into a network of joint trade, investment, and financing - transition from potential cooperation to operational cooperation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President <a href="https://x.com/drpezeshkian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@drpezeshkian</a> met with Indian PM <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in New Delhi on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/BRICS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICS</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/IranIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/WpR8FHODqu">pic.twitter.com/WpR8FHODqu</a>&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://x.com/Iran_in_India/status/2098482722050310543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Indian religious leaders, including Kashmir's Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Acharya Lokesh Muni and Ajmer Sharif's Salman Chishty, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. Discussions focused on peace, dialogue and diplomacy amid the West Asia conflict.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with prominent Indian religious leaders, intellectuals, and business executives at an event held at the Oberoi Hotel in New Delhi after praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Organized on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026, this gathering served as a core platform for Iran's cultural outreach and people-to-people diplomacy in India. Among the attendees was All Parties Hurriyat Conference President Mirwaiz Umar Farooq who delivered a strong appeal for peace, diplomacy, and justice after the meeting. Kashmir's Shia clerics Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al Safavi, Imran Reza Ansari, Jain guru and interfaith leader Acharya Lokesh Muni, among others were also present. The presence of Mirwaiz is particularly important as Kashmir has often been the subject of tensions between India and Iran. In 2019, after India revoked Article 370, then Supreme Leader of Iran - Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had publicly expressed concern over the situation of Muslims in the region. India had issued a sharp response. He had also commented on the Northeast Delhi riots in 2020, and in 2024, referred to Muslims in India alongside those in Gaza, saying: “We cannot consider ourselves to be Muslims if we are oblivious to the suffering that a Muslim is enduring in #Myanmar, #Gaza, #India, or any other place." On every occasions, India has issued sharp responses but overall India and Iran maintained balanced bilateral relations.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Indian religious leaders, including Kashmir's Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Acharya Lokesh Muni and Ajmer Sharif's Salman Chishty, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. Discussions focused on peace, dialogue and diplomacy amid the West Asia conflict.

After praising Modi, Pezeshkian meets Indian religious leaders, Hurriyat's Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile toward the Sea of Japan on Saturday (Sep 12), South Korea's Defense Ministry said. This came just a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan that were focused on North Korea. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement, said that it detected the launch from around 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) that flew about 250 km (155 miles), toward the body of water that Koreans call the East Sea. South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security situation review meeting, according to a separate statement. It urged North Korea to immediately halt ballistic missile launches, calling them a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;"South Korea's military is closely monitoring North Korean activity and maintaining ​the capability and readiness to respond overwhelmingly to any provocation under its combined defence posture with ​the United States," the JCS said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/north-korea-may-have-80-to-120-nuclear-weapons-1787218219998">North Korea may have 80 to 120 nuclear weapons</a>&nbsp;North Korea had slammed plans for the drills named ‘Freedom Edge exercises’ in international waters off South Korea as a "threat" to Pyongyang and other countries of the region. North Korea’s defense minister, Kim Song Gi had warned North Korea was capable of taking “strong and reflective countermeasures from the standpoint of power."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korea-unleashes-5-000-tonne-nuclear-warship-kim-vows-to-build-more-nuclear-1788801611283">North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear</a><h2>How US reacted?</h2>US Pacific Command also released a statement and said that it was aware of the launches, but based on its current assessment, it declared that they did not pose an immediate threat to US personnel, territory or allies. “We are aware of the recent missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners. Based on current assessments, this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies. The United States remains committed to the defense of the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region,” it said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;The statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's makes another overture to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump also shortened annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South and US and called the drills "inappropriate and hostile" towards North Korea. Trump told reporters at the White House on August 19 he plans to meet the North Korean leader this year. The US president also said it was important to "get along" with Kim, adding that Pyongyang now had 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. Seoul has said the North has around 80-120 nuclear weapons.

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile towards the Sea of Japan on Saturday, days after South Korea, the US and Japan concluded joint maritime drills. Seoul condemned the launch, while Washington said it posed no immediate threat to its personnel, territory or allies

North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile toward the Sea of Japan on Saturday (Sep 12), South Korea's Defense Ministry said. This came just a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan that were focused on North Korea. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a statement, said that it detected the launch from around 5:20 a.m. (2020 GMT on Friday) that flew about 250 km (155 miles), toward the body of water that Koreans call the East Sea. South Korea’s National Security Office convened an emergency security situation review meeting, according to a separate statement. It urged North Korea to immediately halt ballistic missile launches, calling them a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions. "South Korea's military is closely monitoring North Korean activity and maintaining the capability and readiness to respond overwhelmingly to any provocation under its combined defence posture with the United States," the JCS said in a statement. Also Read: North Korea may have 80 to 120 nuclear weapons North Korea had slammed plans for the drills named ‘Freedom Edge exercises’ in international waters off South Korea as a "threat" to Pyongyang and other countries of the region. North Korea’s defense minister, Kim Song Gi had warned North Korea was capable of taking “strong and reflective countermeasures from the standpoint of power." Also Read: North Korea unleashes 5,000-tonne nuclear warship: Kim vows to build more nuclear How US reacted? US Pacific Command also released a statement and said that it was aware of the launches, but based on its current assessment, it declared that they did not pose an immediate threat to US personnel, territory or allies. “We are aware of the recent missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners. Based on current assessments, this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies. The United States remains committed to the defense of the U.S. homeland and our allies in the region,” it said in a statement. The statement comes amid US President Donald Trump's makes another overture to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump also shortened annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South and US and called the drills "inappropriate and hostile" towards North Korea. Trump told reporters at the White House on August 19 he plans to meet the North Korean leader this year. The US president also said it was important to "get along" with Kim, adding that Pyongyang now had 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. Seoul has said the North has around 80-120 nuclear weapons.

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile towards the Sea of Japan on Saturday, days after South Korea, the US and Japan concluded joint maritime drills. Seoul condemned the launch, while Washington said it posed no immediate threat to its personnel, territory or allies

North Korea fires missiles after US, South Korea and Japan military drills but America says 'does not pose immediate threat'

Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut its crucial East-West oil pipeline as a precaution after multiple attacks targeted the facility, the kingdom's Energy Ministry said on Friday.&nbsp;The pipeline was targeted in the Riyadh and Madinah regions on Thursday morning. Several people were injured in the attacks, according to the ministry.&nbsp;Emergency teams were sent to secure the pipeline and assess its condition. The Energy Ministry said further updates would be announced as the situation develops.&nbsp;The East-West pipeline, which has a capacity of 7 million barrels per day, carries crude from Saudi Arabia's eastern oil fields to export terminals on the Red Sea. It provides the kingdom with an alternative route that reduces its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz for oil exports.&nbsp;<h2>Iraq-linked drones target Saudi oil infrastructure</h2>Saudi Arabia later said drones launched from Iraq had targeted the East-West pipeline.&nbsp;Riyadh said it would not retaliate for now following a request from the Iraqi prime minister. However, Saudi Arabia reserved the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security and critical infrastructure, according to a statement from the Saudi Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;The latest attacks came after Houthi militants in Yemen launched strikes on Saudi Arabia earlier this week. The attacks targeted energy facilities and other assets and injured more than 70 people.&nbsp;The Houthis declared a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia in July and have sought to disrupt the kingdom's oil exports through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which links the southern Red Sea with global markets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-modi-guterres-discuss-west-asia-ukraine-and-un-reforms-1789149159261">BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms</a><h2>Oil prices remain above $100 amid Middle East tensions</h2>The attacks have added to concerns over global oil supplies as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt key energy routes.&nbsp;Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel earlier this week for the first time in months as fighting intensified across the region. Reports of the pipeline attack also added to market concerns, with crude prices ending the week more than 8 per cent higher.&nbsp;Prices fell on Friday, however. Brent North Sea crude declined 2.8 per cent to $104.61 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped 2.4 per cent to $100.05 a barrel.&nbsp;The latest disruption to Saudi oil infrastructure comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the wider conflict, raising fresh concerns over the security of global energy supplies.

Saudi Arabia has shut its key East-West crude pipeline after drone attacks, raising fresh concerns over global oil supplies as the US-Iran conflict continues to threaten critical energy routes.

Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut its crucial East-West oil pipeline as a precaution after multiple attacks targeted the facility, the kingdom's Energy Ministry said on Friday. The pipeline was targeted in the Riyadh and Madinah regions on Thursday morning. Several people were injured in the attacks, according to the ministry. Emergency teams were sent to secure the pipeline and assess its condition. The Energy Ministry said further updates would be announced as the situation develops. The East-West pipeline, which has a capacity of 7 million barrels per day, carries crude from Saudi Arabia's eastern oil fields to export terminals on the Red Sea. It provides the kingdom with an alternative route that reduces its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz for oil exports. Iraq-linked drones target Saudi oil infrastructure Saudi Arabia later said drones launched from Iraq had targeted the East-West pipeline. Riyadh said it would not retaliate for now following a request from the Iraqi prime minister. However, Saudi Arabia reserved the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security and critical infrastructure, according to a statement from the Saudi Foreign Ministry. The latest attacks came after Houthi militants in Yemen launched strikes on Saudi Arabia earlier this week. The attacks targeted energy facilities and other assets and injured more than 70 people. The Houthis declared a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia in July and have sought to disrupt the kingdom's oil exports through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which links the southern Red Sea with global markets. Also Read: BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms Oil prices remain above $100 amid Middle East tensions The attacks have added to concerns over global oil supplies as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt key energy routes. Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel earlier this week for the first time in months as fighting intensified across the region. Reports of the pipeline attack also added to market concerns, with crude prices ending the week more than 8 per cent higher. Prices fell on Friday, however. Brent North Sea crude declined 2.8 per cent to $104.61 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped 2.4 per cent to $100.05 a barrel. The latest disruption to Saudi oil infrastructure comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the wider conflict, raising fresh concerns over the security of global energy supplies.

Saudi Arabia has shut its key East-West crude pipeline after drone attacks, raising fresh concerns over global oil supplies as the US-Iran conflict continues to threaten critical energy routes.

Saudi Arabia shuts East-West oil pipeline, key Hormuz bypass, after attacks

As India gears up to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13 under its 2026 chairship, the grouping is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with development, sustainability and innovation at the centre of its agenda.&nbsp;However, the summit comes at a time of significant global economic and geopolitical turmoil. The Russia-Ukraine war has continued for more than four years, while the West Asia conflict between Iran and the United States has spilled into the wider Middle East, disrupting energy supplies and trade routes and sending ripples through the global economy.&nbsp;To understand India's BRICS presidency at a time of such geopolitical flux, WION spoke to Dr Anshu Joshi of the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi. As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the grouping still lacks a permanent headquarters and bureaucracy, even as it expands its footprint across Asia with new members. Do you think BRICS remains largely a bloc of summits, talks and conferences, without concrete mechanisms to implement its programmes and declarations?&nbsp;Yes, it is true that BRICS does not have a permanent headquarters, and that is a challenge as the bloc rapidly expands. However, we cannot say that the absence of a headquarters means BRICS is only about optics. We have to understand the rapid expansion and dynamism BRICS has shown in the past couple of years.&nbsp;BRICS works through a consensus-driven, rotating chair system that helps manage the complex dynamics among its member nations. India is also proposing to formalise BRICS' institutional footprint by establishing a permanent secretariat in New Delhi.&nbsp;When we talk about the tangible and institutionalised outcomes of BRICS, we must look at the New Development Bank, which is a concrete mechanism. It has financed over $30 billion to $35 billion in infrastructure projects across member nations, including India.&nbsp;BRICS now also includes major energy and economic players, including Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia and Indonesia. This demonstrates how the bloc is expanding across a significant part of the Global South.&nbsp;As I mentioned, India has proposed establishing a BRICS headquarters in New Delhi. Hopefully, after this summit or in the New Delhi Declaration, we may get some positive news on this.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-modi-guterres-discuss-west-asia-ukraine-and-un-reforms-1789149159261">BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms</a>&nbsp;BRICS is increasingly being seen as a challenger to the US-led Western financial system, with talks of de-dollarisation gaining momentum. Even President Trump has threatened the grouping over efforts to challenge dollar dominance. Is BRICS planning to roll out a new financial system, currency or agreement at the upcoming summit?&nbsp;I am not sure, but there is certainly talk that BRICS could roll out a single common currency. However, that is not the case. We have to understand the difference between a common currency and interoperable digital payment mechanisms.&nbsp;Under such mechanisms, BRICS nations can trade in their own currencies. India and Russia, for instance, conduct a significant part of their trade in rupees and roubles.&nbsp;The core intention of BRICS has always been to address the economic challenges faced by Global South nations and emerging economies. One of the obstacles in achieving this objective is the dominance of the US dollar.&nbsp;There has been speculation that BRICS could introduce its own common currency, but that has several challenges and there is a lot of work to be done in that direction. Instead, BRICS is promoting an alternative financial framework based on greater use of local currencies.&nbsp;This includes expanding local currency trade settlements to reduce dependence on the US dollar, along with mechanisms such as BRICS Pay, a proposed cross-border payment system designed to operate independently of Western networks such as SWIFT.&nbsp;Such a system could allow countries such as Russia, which has been excluded from SWIFT, to participate in trade using their local currencies. It represents a significant shift towards financial autonomy, which is a key goal for Global South nations.&nbsp;That is why the US and other Western countries view these efforts as a challenge to the dollar-based financial system. However, the core objective of BRICS is to ensure financial autonomy and currency sovereignty for its member nations.&nbsp;The West Asia war has put India's BRICS presidency in a difficult position. With Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iran part of BRICS, will it be a challenge for New Delhi to secure a consensus declaration, similar to the one India achieved during its G20 presidency despite the Russia-Ukraine conflict?&nbsp;I don't think so. Apart from BRICS' principle of multi-alignment, we have to look at how India has strengthened its bilateral diplomatic relations with BRICS members, including Russia and Iran. There are certain challenges with China, but India has very good relations with most of the other members, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;When we look at the agenda India is likely to push through the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi and the New Delhi Declaration, it would have to consider the complex dynamics in Asia, particularly the situation in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;There are also challenges facing member nations, ranging from energy security and supply chain disruptions to difficulties related to manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure development and connectivity.&nbsp;India is likely to keep these issues at the centre of the New Delhi Declaration because they are of significance to every member nation. I don't think member nations would have major difficulties in adopting these agenda items because they serve their own national interests.&nbsp;Just as India managed to adopt the Delhi Declaration without a single dissent during the G20 Summit in New Delhi in September 2023, I believe it can achieve a similar outcome with the BRICS declaration. There will be diplomatic complexities, but India could once again prove itself to be a diplomatic champion.&nbsp;India's regular presence at the Western-dominated G7, alongside its membership of groupings such as the SCO and BRICS, puts New Delhi in a delicate position. How can India effectively manage its multi-alignment policy amid growing global headwinds?&nbsp;India has been successfully navigating multi-alignment amid different global headwinds and challenges. It has structured its foreign policy in a way that allows it to engage with Western platforms such as the G7 and Quad, while also participating in non-Western forums such as BRICS and the SCO.&nbsp;India has made it clear that being part of BRICS or the SCO does not mean opposing the West. It is not about being anti-West. It is about being non-Western while pursuing India's own national interests, strategic autonomy and a multipolar world.&nbsp;India has followed a multi-pronged approach, building coalitions based on specific issues. It engages with the G7 on areas such as high-tech transfers, defence production and green financing, while using BRICS to promote greater representation and leadership for the Global South.&nbsp;India also works to ensure that BRICS does not become purely anti-Western or China-centric. It has consistently promoted the idea of BRICS as non-Western rather than anti-Western and has advocated strategic autonomy for member nations and even invited countries from the Global South.&nbsp;Instead of aligning itself with any ideological bloc, India seeks to protect its own interests while remaining a vital geopolitical swing state that engages across platforms and promotes a positive Global South agenda.&nbsp;BRICS+ has become an economic heavyweight, surpassing the G7 in its share of global GDP, while its combined military capabilities are also significant. Do you see the bloc eventually moving beyond climate, governance and trade to challenge US-led Western influence in military terms?&nbsp;No, BRICS is not a military alliance. From the beginning, its core agenda has focused on financial autonomy, economic development and infrastructure, particularly for Global South nations.&nbsp;It is highly unlikely that BRICS will transform into a military alliance. It is not like NATO. Any military bloc requires shared security perceptions, and there are significant differences within BRICS. Mutual defence pacts would also be necessary, and those do not exist within BRICS.&nbsp;There are disputes between India and China, while several other member nations have their own bilateral defence agreements with the US. Egypt, the UAE and Brazil, for instance, have deep defence ties with Washington.&nbsp;Therefore, BRICS+ is likely to remain focused on economic multipolarity, financial autonomy, alternative trade architecture and global governance reforms rather than becoming a military counterweight to NATO or the US.

India's 2026 BRICS presidency faces the challenge of steering the expanding bloc towards greater financial autonomy and a multipolar world amid ongoing wars, geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty.

As India gears up to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13 under its 2026 chairship, the grouping is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with development, sustainability and innovation at the centre of its agenda. However, the summit comes at a time of significant global economic and geopolitical turmoil. The Russia-Ukraine war has continued for more than four years, while the West Asia conflict between Iran and the United States has spilled into the wider Middle East, disrupting energy supplies and trade routes and sending ripples through the global economy. To understand India's BRICS presidency at a time of such geopolitical flux, WION spoke to Dr Anshu Joshi of the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi. As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the grouping still lacks a permanent headquarters and bureaucracy, even as it expands its footprint across Asia with new members. Do you think BRICS remains largely a bloc of summits, talks and conferences, without concrete mechanisms to implement its programmes and declarations? Yes, it is true that BRICS does not have a permanent headquarters, and that is a challenge as the bloc rapidly expands. However, we cannot say that the absence of a headquarters means BRICS is only about optics. We have to understand the rapid expansion and dynamism BRICS has shown in the past couple of years. BRICS works through a consensus-driven, rotating chair system that helps manage the complex dynamics among its member nations. India is also proposing to formalise BRICS' institutional footprint by establishing a permanent secretariat in New Delhi. When we talk about the tangible and institutionalised outcomes of BRICS, we must look at the New Development Bank, which is a concrete mechanism. It has financed over $30 billion to $35 billion in infrastructure projects across member nations, including India. BRICS now also includes major energy and economic players, including Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia and Indonesia. This demonstrates how the bloc is expanding across a significant part of the Global South. As I mentioned, India has proposed establishing a BRICS headquarters in New Delhi. Hopefully, after this summit or in the New Delhi Declaration, we may get some positive news on this. Also Read: BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms BRICS is increasingly being seen as a challenger to the US-led Western financial system, with talks of de-dollarisation gaining momentum. Even President Trump has threatened the grouping over efforts to challenge dollar dominance. Is BRICS planning to roll out a new financial system, currency or agreement at the upcoming summit? I am not sure, but there is certainly talk that BRICS could roll out a single common currency. However, that is not the case. We have to understand the difference between a common currency and interoperable digital payment mechanisms. Under such mechanisms, BRICS nations can trade in their own currencies. India and Russia, for instance, conduct a significant part of their trade in rupees and roubles. The core intention of BRICS has always been to address the economic challenges faced by Global South nations and emerging economies. One of the obstacles in achieving this objective is the dominance of the US dollar. There has been speculation that BRICS could introduce its own common currency, but that has several challenges and there is a lot of work to be done in that direction. Instead, BRICS is promoting an alternative financial framework based on greater use of local currencies. This includes expanding local currency trade settlements to reduce dependence on the US dollar, along with mechanisms such as BRICS Pay, a proposed cross-border payment system designed to operate independently of Western networks such as SWIFT. Such a system could allow countries such as Russia, which has been excluded from SWIFT, to participate in trade using their local currencies. It represents a significant shift towards financial autonomy, which is a key goal for Global South nations. That is why the US and other Western countries view these efforts as a challenge to the dollar-based financial system. However, the core objective of BRICS is to ensure financial autonomy and currency sovereignty for its member nations. The West Asia war has put India's BRICS presidency in a difficult position. With Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iran part of BRICS, will it be a challenge for New Delhi to secure a consensus declaration, similar to the one India achieved during its G20 presidency despite the Russia-Ukraine conflict? I don't think so. Apart from BRICS' principle of multi-alignment, we have to look at how India has strengthened its bilateral diplomatic relations with BRICS members, including Russia and Iran. There are certain challenges with China, but India has very good relations with most of the other members, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. When we look at the agenda India is likely to push through the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi and the New Delhi Declaration, it would have to consider the complex dynamics in Asia, particularly the situation in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. There are also challenges facing member nations, ranging from energy security and supply chain disruptions to difficulties related to manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure development and connectivity. India is likely to keep these issues at the centre of the New Delhi Declaration because they are of significance to every member nation. I don't think member nations would have major difficulties in adopting these agenda items because they serve their own national interests. Just as India managed to adopt the Delhi Declaration without a single dissent during the G20 Summit in New Delhi in September 2023, I believe it can achieve a similar outcome with the BRICS declaration. There will be diplomatic complexities, but India could once again prove itself to be a diplomatic champion. India's regular presence at the Western-dominated G7, alongside its membership of groupings such as the SCO and BRICS, puts New Delhi in a delicate position. How can India effectively manage its multi-alignment policy amid growing global headwinds? India has been successfully navigating multi-alignment amid different global headwinds and challenges. It has structured its foreign policy in a way that allows it to engage with Western platforms such as the G7 and Quad, while also participating in non-Western forums such as BRICS and the SCO. India has made it clear that being part of BRICS or the SCO does not mean opposing the West. It is not about being anti-West. It is about being non-Western while pursuing India's own national interests, strategic autonomy and a multipolar world. India has followed a multi-pronged approach, building coalitions based on specific issues. It engages with the G7 on areas such as high-tech transfers, defence production and green financing, while using BRICS to promote greater representation and leadership for the Global South. India also works to ensure that BRICS does not become purely anti-Western or China-centric. It has consistently promoted the idea of BRICS as non-Western rather than anti-Western and has advocated strategic autonomy for member nations and even invited countries from the Global South. Instead of aligning itself with any ideological bloc, India seeks to protect its own interests while remaining a vital geopolitical swing state that engages across platforms and promotes a positive Global South agenda. BRICS+ has become an economic heavyweight, surpassing the G7 in its share of global GDP, while its combined military capabilities are also significant. Do you see the bloc eventually moving beyond climate, governance and trade to challenge US-led Western influence in military terms? No, BRICS is not a military alliance. From the beginning, its core agenda has focused on financial autonomy, economic development and infrastructure, particularly for Global South nations. It is highly unlikely that BRICS will transform into a military alliance. It is not like NATO. Any military bloc requires shared security perceptions, and there are significant differences within BRICS. Mutual defence pacts would also be necessary, and those do not exist within BRICS. There are disputes between India and China, while several other member nations have their own bilateral defence agreements with the US. Egypt, the UAE and Brazil, for instance, have deep defence ties with Washington. Therefore, BRICS+ is likely to remain focused on economic multipolarity, financial autonomy, alternative trade architecture and global governance reforms rather than becoming a military counterweight to NATO or the US.

India's 2026 BRICS presidency faces the challenge of steering the expanding bloc towards greater financial autonomy and a multipolar world amid ongoing wars, geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty.

WION Expertspeak: Understanding India's BRICS presidency amid wars, trade tensions and global turmoil

The US Justice Department &nbsp;has secured the first deportation through the Alien Terrorist Removal Court, a little-known tribunal that had never been used by previous administrations. The department announced on Friday (Sept 11) that Afghan national Nazira Haji Zada had been deported to Afghanistan after she admitted to being an "alien terrorist". The case was linked to allegations that she helped her son and son-in-law plan a terror attack that was foiled in 2024.&nbsp;The deportation marks the first use of the Alien Terrorist Removal Court since the Donald Trump administration activated the tribunal earlier this year.&nbsp;According to newly unsealed court documents and the Justice Department, Haji Zada agreed to the alien terrorist designation before she was removed from the United States.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-asks-trump-twice-to-strike-houthis-us-president-declines-report-1789146851795">Saudi prince asks Trump twice to strike Houthis, US president declines: Report</a>&nbsp;Attorney General Todd Blanche described the case as a victory for US national security and the rule of law.&nbsp;"The landmark case, resulting in the prompt removal of this alien terrorist to her country of origin, is a win for national security and the rule of law," Blanche said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;He added that people who support or condone terrorism should not be allowed to remain in the United States. Blanche said the case demonstrated that the Justice Department would use every available legal tool to protect the country.&nbsp;Haji Zada's lawyers had earlier challenged the constitutionality of the tribunal. They argued that its procedures violated due process and other constitutional protections.&nbsp;The Alien Terrorist Removal Court allows the Justice Department to keep certain classified information secret during deportation proceedings. This can include information that the government uses to classify an immigrant as an "alien terrorist".&nbsp;The cases are heard by Article III federal judges. These judges are considered more independent from the executive branch than immigration judges who normally handle deportation cases.&nbsp;Previous US administrations had never used the tribunal. One possible reason was concern that using it could lead to a court ruling that the system itself was unconstitutional.&nbsp;The Trump administration's first successful case before the tribunal now marks a significant new development in how the US government handles immigration cases involving alleged terrorism.

The Trump administration has secured the first deportation through the Alien Terrorist Removal Court, removing Afghan woman Nazira Haji Zada after she admitted to being an "alien terrorist" in a case linked to a foiled 2024 terror plot.

The US Justice Department has secured the first deportation through the Alien Terrorist Removal Court, a little-known tribunal that had never been used by previous administrations. The department announced on Friday (Sept 11) that Afghan national Nazira Haji Zada had been deported to Afghanistan after she admitted to being an "alien terrorist". The case was linked to allegations that she helped her son and son-in-law plan a terror attack that was foiled in 2024. The deportation marks the first use of the Alien Terrorist Removal Court since the Donald Trump administration activated the tribunal earlier this year. According to newly unsealed court documents and the Justice Department, Haji Zada agreed to the alien terrorist designation before she was removed from the United States. Also Read: Saudi prince asks Trump twice to strike Houthis, US president declines: Report Attorney General Todd Blanche described the case as a victory for US national security and the rule of law. "The landmark case, resulting in the prompt removal of this alien terrorist to her country of origin, is a win for national security and the rule of law," Blanche said in a statement on Friday. He added that people who support or condone terrorism should not be allowed to remain in the United States. Blanche said the case demonstrated that the Justice Department would use every available legal tool to protect the country. Haji Zada's lawyers had earlier challenged the constitutionality of the tribunal. They argued that its procedures violated due process and other constitutional protections. The Alien Terrorist Removal Court allows the Justice Department to keep certain classified information secret during deportation proceedings. This can include information that the government uses to classify an immigrant as an "alien terrorist". The cases are heard by Article III federal judges. These judges are considered more independent from the executive branch than immigration judges who normally handle deportation cases. Previous US administrations had never used the tribunal. One possible reason was concern that using it could lead to a court ruling that the system itself was unconstitutional. The Trump administration's first successful case before the tribunal now marks a significant new development in how the US government handles immigration cases involving alleged terrorism.

The Trump administration has secured the first deportation through the Alien Terrorist Removal Court, removing Afghan woman Nazira Haji Zada after she admitted to being an "alien terrorist" in a case linked to a foiled 2024 terror plot.

In first of its kind, Trump admin deports Afghan woman via Alien Terrorist Court

As the world grapples with a litany of wars and America's hegemonic designs, India's approach has stood out with its consistent thrust on diplomacy and a multipolar world.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the tone for the BRICS summit by highlighting the expanse and economic power of the bloc. BRICS now comprises 11 members and 10 partner countries, representing half of the world's population, 40 per cent of the world's GDP and more than 25 per cent of global trade.&nbsp;Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Modi said the GDP of BRICS nations has grown at nearly twice the pace of the rest of the world despite adverse circumstances.&nbsp;He urged the forum to prepare a report on removing the top 10 trade barriers and support 100 startups from BRICS countries. Citing India's accomplishments, Modi issued a call for other nations to "innovate with India".&nbsp;The safety of seafarers was also high on Modi's agenda. He stressed that global trade can progress only when sea lanes and supply routes remain open and seafarers are safe.&nbsp;The day also witnessed key high-profile bilateral meetings. Modi held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian amid the ongoing crisis around the Strait of Hormuz, whose virtual closure has triggered an energy crisis affecting several countries, including India.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Modi held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The bonhomie between the two leaders was once again on display.&nbsp;On arriving at New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam, the two leaders shared a warm hug and shook hands as they reviewed progress across multiple domains, including the economy, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people exchanges.&nbsp;The meeting assumes significance as India is considering a Russian proposal to buy five more S-400 air defence systems following the success of Operation Sindoor. There are also reports that Moscow is offering Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets to India.&nbsp;The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in West Asia and the Black Sea, where multiple Indian seafarers have lost their lives amid the ongoing Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars.&nbsp;While agreeing to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, Modi reiterated the importance of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and expressed India's willingness to assist in peace efforts.&nbsp;According to sources, other issues that may have come up for discussion included achieving a bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030, broadening India's access to the Russian market and strengthening civil nuclear cooperation.&nbsp;Modi also gifted Putin a Russian translation of the ancient Tamil classic Thirukkural. Russian author Leo Tolstoy was captivated by the treatise for its emphasis on non-violence and compassion. The work also offers lessons on diplomacy, leadership and governance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-still-sending-terrorists-to-where-they-belong-says-trump-at-9-11-memorial-event-1789137990009">'We are still sending terrorists to where they belong', says Trump at 9/11 memorial event</a>&nbsp;Following the meeting, Modi and Putin travelled together in the same car. They later visited Russia's International Industrial Exhibition, Innoprom India, which seeks to further expand trade and industrial ties between the two countries.&nbsp;Amid Trump's global tariffs and the United States' strengthening of sanctions against Russia and Iran, a key question is how BRICS is responding to the changing global trade order.&nbsp;The BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors collectively voiced concern over the unilateral imposition of tariffs and non-tariff measures that distort trade.&nbsp;They also encouraged discussions on promoting the use of local currencies among BRICS countries for trade and investments.&nbsp;Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also voiced support for this approach.&nbsp;This is already taking place between India and Russia. Estimates suggest that around 96 per cent of their bilateral trade is now settled in rupees and roubles.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov to strengthen the India-Russia payments system.&nbsp;All eyes will now be on the next two days to see how BRICS seeks to put forward an alternative vision for the world, as peaceful coexistence remains a casualty of ongoing conflicts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the BRICS summit to champion diplomacy and a multipolar world while strengthening India's strategic and economic ties with Russia and Iran amid global conflicts, US tariffs and sanctions.

As the world grapples with a litany of wars and America's hegemonic designs, India's approach has stood out with its consistent thrust on diplomacy and a multipolar world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the tone for the BRICS summit by highlighting the expanse and economic power of the bloc. BRICS now comprises 11 members and 10 partner countries, representing half of the world's population, 40 per cent of the world's GDP and more than 25 per cent of global trade. Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Modi said the GDP of BRICS nations has grown at nearly twice the pace of the rest of the world despite adverse circumstances. He urged the forum to prepare a report on removing the top 10 trade barriers and support 100 startups from BRICS countries. Citing India's accomplishments, Modi issued a call for other nations to "innovate with India". The safety of seafarers was also high on Modi's agenda. He stressed that global trade can progress only when sea lanes and supply routes remain open and seafarers are safe. The day also witnessed key high-profile bilateral meetings. Modi held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian amid the ongoing crisis around the Strait of Hormuz, whose virtual closure has triggered an energy crisis affecting several countries, including India. Earlier in the day, Modi held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The bonhomie between the two leaders was once again on display. On arriving at New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam, the two leaders shared a warm hug and shook hands as they reviewed progress across multiple domains, including the economy, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people exchanges. The meeting assumes significance as India is considering a Russian proposal to buy five more S-400 air defence systems following the success of Operation Sindoor. There are also reports that Moscow is offering Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets to India. The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in West Asia and the Black Sea, where multiple Indian seafarers have lost their lives amid the ongoing Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars. While agreeing to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, Modi reiterated the importance of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and expressed India's willingness to assist in peace efforts. According to sources, other issues that may have come up for discussion included achieving a bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030, broadening India's access to the Russian market and strengthening civil nuclear cooperation. Modi also gifted Putin a Russian translation of the ancient Tamil classic Thirukkural. Russian author Leo Tolstoy was captivated by the treatise for its emphasis on non-violence and compassion. The work also offers lessons on diplomacy, leadership and governance. Also Read: 'We are still sending terrorists to where they belong', says Trump at 9/11 memorial event Following the meeting, Modi and Putin travelled together in the same car. They later visited Russia's International Industrial Exhibition, Innoprom India, which seeks to further expand trade and industrial ties between the two countries. Amid Trump's global tariffs and the United States' strengthening of sanctions against Russia and Iran, a key question is how BRICS is responding to the changing global trade order. The BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors collectively voiced concern over the unilateral imposition of tariffs and non-tariff measures that distort trade. They also encouraged discussions on promoting the use of local currencies among BRICS countries for trade and investments. Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also voiced support for this approach. This is already taking place between India and Russia. Estimates suggest that around 96 per cent of their bilateral trade is now settled in rupees and roubles. Meanwhile, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov to strengthen the India-Russia payments system. All eyes will now be on the next two days to see how BRICS seeks to put forward an alternative vision for the world, as peaceful coexistence remains a casualty of ongoing conflicts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the BRICS summit to champion diplomacy and a multipolar world while strengthening India's strategic and economic ties with Russia and Iran amid global conflicts, US tariffs and sanctions.

PM Modi's power meet with Putin & Pezeshkian, all eyes on BRICS Summit | Gravitas

Skyroot Aerospace, the Indian rocket-making firm that succeeded in reaching orbit in its first attempt in July 2026, is now targeting its second launch by the year-end. "We have shipped the first stage of the (four-stage) Vikram-1 rocket to the ISRO Spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. "It'll take a few more months... We are targeting year-end... However, it depends on the improvements that we are going to do from the first launch. We are just about to complete post-flight analysis to understand our first flight fully and make the necessary changes for the second flight. Based on that, the second launch schedule will come, but we are targeting year-end, hopefully," Skyroot's Co-Founder and CEO Pawan Chandana told this author during an exclusive conversation at the Bengaluru Space Expo.Skyroot's Vikram-1 rocket is the first privately designed and developed spacefaring vehicle from India to reach orbit and deploy satellites. Until this feat, only the Government-run space agency ISRO had been designing, developing, and launching rockets to space from India. The successful execution of Vikram-1's mission on July 18th 2026, made India the third nation after the USA and China to demonstrate private orbital launch capability.While Pawan did not reveal whose satellites would fly on the second mission of Vikram-1, he said that the specific information would be shared closer to launch. Further, he mentioned that there is quite a lot of interest in launches after the first mission. "In global launches, there is a lot of gap...There is a lot of increased interest in launches," he added.<h2>Skyroot's Rs 250 cr investment in Tamil Nadu</h2>Queried about Skyroot's recent MoU with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest Rs 250 cr (approx $26mn) in Thoothukudi, Pawan explained that it was meant to set up infrastructure for rocket testing and integration near the upcoming spaceport. This investment in infrastructure is meant to support Skyroot's future launches from Kulasekarapattinam, which is located barely 100 kms away from mainland India's southernmost tip, where the Indian government is building its second spaceport.This 2300-acre Kulasekarapattinam facility is meant for efficiently launching small rockets on southward trajectories. This includes rockets such as ISRO's SSLV and those being built by private firms such as Skyroot.While launching southwards from Sriharikota, rockets would need to perform a turn manoeuvre to avoid overflying the island nation of Sri Lanka. Such a manoeuvre expends fuel and curbs the rocket's lifting ability. In the case of smaller rockets, such turn manoeuvres could drastically cut down their lifting ability. India is building the spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam to facilitate direct southwards launches of small rockets at their maximum lifting ability.<h2>Will Skyroot build its own launchpad?</h2>Given the company's goal to provide quick and frequent launches to meet customer needs, Pawan was asked if they would build a launchpad at either Sriharikota or Kulasekarapattinam. Further, this author also asked if Skyroot would continue launching from Sriharikota on the East Coast or whether Skyroot would move launches to the upcoming spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam. To this, Pawan replied that the firm would launch low- and mid-inclination missions from the Sriharikota spaceport, while the high-inclination, southward missions would be launched from Kulasekarapattinam. He added that the launch site would depend on the preferences of their customers and the specific orbit requirements of the passenger satellites."As of now, both spaceports have good launch capacity... As we keep launching further, we will think about having our independent launch pad, but the existing launchpads are good enough for a large number of launches," Pawan replied.<h2>How does Skyroot view its competition?</h2>Pawan says that the competition is that the launch market is global. However, he also pointed out that there are only two firms launching regularly, and both are doing so from the US. Though he did not name the firms, the reference is obvious: SpaceX and RocketLab. "The world needs more launch capacity. If it can come from more Indian firms, it is good for the ecosystem. We are gearing up for more launches and hope to create good launch capacity for the global space sector.. 70-80% of our market is global. As a company, Skyroot got to orbit in its first attempt. We will keep doing more launches," he concluded.<h2>Global launch statistics from 2025</h2>Last year, of more than 320 launches globally, the USA led with 181 launches, while China did over 90. Most of these were driven by the private sector in the respective countries. All other spacefaring countries and private firms cumulatively did fewer than 60 launches. In a good year, India does about five or seven space launches. In 2025, the Indian space agency ISRO had done five launch missions, and private firms had not done any.<h2>About Skyroot's Vikram-1 rocket</h2>Vikram-1 is a seven-storeys-tall, four-stage orbital launch vehicle built with an all-carbon composite structure and powered by in-house developed propulsion systems, including 3D-printed engines and high-thrust solid-fuel rocket boosters. Designed to carry small satellites weighing up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit, about 500 km above Earth.

Last year, of more than 320 launches globally, the USA led with 181 launches, while China did over 90. Most of these were driven by the private sector in the respective countries. All other spacefaring countries and private firms cumulatively did fewer than 60 launches.

Skyroot Aerospace, the Indian rocket-making firm that succeeded in reaching orbit in its first attempt in July 2026, is now targeting its second launch by the year-end. "We have shipped the first stage of the (four-stage) Vikram-1 rocket to the ISRO Spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. "It'll take a few more months... We are targeting year-end... However, it depends on the improvements that we are going to do from the first launch. We are just about to complete post-flight analysis to understand our first flight fully and make the necessary changes for the second flight. Based on that, the second launch schedule will come, but we are targeting year-end, hopefully," Skyroot's Co-Founder and CEO Pawan Chandana told this author during an exclusive conversation at the Bengaluru Space Expo. Skyroot's Vikram-1 rocket is the first privately designed and developed spacefaring vehicle from India to reach orbit and deploy satellites. Until this feat, only the Government-run space agency ISRO had been designing, developing, and launching rockets to space from India. The successful execution of Vikram-1's mission on July 18th 2026, made India the third nation after the USA and China to demonstrate private orbital launch capability. While Pawan did not reveal whose satellites would fly on the second mission of Vikram-1, he said that the specific information would be shared closer to launch. Further, he mentioned that there is quite a lot of interest in launches after the first mission. "In global launches, there is a lot of gap...There is a lot of increased interest in launches," he added. Skyroot's Rs 250 cr investment in Tamil Nadu Queried about Skyroot's recent MoU with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest Rs 250 cr (approx $26mn) in Thoothukudi, Pawan explained that it was meant to set up infrastructure for rocket testing and integration near the upcoming spaceport. This investment in infrastructure is meant to support Skyroot's future launches from Kulasekarapattinam, which is located barely 100 kms away from mainland India's southernmost tip, where the Indian government is building its second spaceport. This 2300-acre Kulasekarapattinam facility is meant for efficiently launching small rockets on southward trajectories. This includes rockets such as ISRO's SSLV and those being built by private firms such as Skyroot. While launching southwards from Sriharikota, rockets would need to perform a turn manoeuvre to avoid overflying the island nation of Sri Lanka. Such a manoeuvre expends fuel and curbs the rocket's lifting ability. In the case of smaller rockets, such turn manoeuvres could drastically cut down their lifting ability. India is building the spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam to facilitate direct southwards launches of small rockets at their maximum lifting ability. Will Skyroot build its own launchpad? Given the company's goal to provide quick and frequent launches to meet customer needs, Pawan was asked if they would build a launchpad at either Sriharikota or Kulasekarapattinam. Further, this author also asked if Skyroot would continue launching from Sriharikota on the East Coast or whether Skyroot would move launches to the upcoming spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam. To this, Pawan replied that the firm would launch low- and mid-inclination missions from the Sriharikota spaceport, while the high-inclination, southward missions would be launched from Kulasekarapattinam. He added that the launch site would depend on the preferences of their customers and the specific orbit requirements of the passenger satellites. "As of now, both spaceports have good launch capacity... As we keep launching further, we will think about having our independent launch pad, but the existing launchpads are good enough for a large number of launches," Pawan replied. How does Skyroot view its competition? Pawan says that the competition is that the launch market is global. However, he also pointed out that there are only two firms launching regularly, and both are doing so from the US. Though he did not name the firms, the reference is obvious: SpaceX and RocketLab. "The world needs more launch capacity. If it can come from more Indian firms, it is good for the ecosystem. We are gearing up for more launches and hope to create good launch capacity for the global space sector.. 70-80% of our market is global. As a company, Skyroot got to orbit in its first attempt. We will keep doing more launches," he concluded. Global launch statistics from 2025 Last year, of more than 320 launches globally, the USA led with 181 launches, while China did over 90. Most of these were driven by the private sector in the respective countries. All other spacefaring countries and private firms cumulatively did fewer than 60 launches. In a good year, India does about five or seven space launches. In 2025, the Indian space agency ISRO had done five launch missions, and private firms had not done any. About Skyroot's Vikram-1 rocket Vikram-1 is a seven-storeys-tall, four-stage orbital launch vehicle built with an all-carbon composite structure and powered by in-house developed propulsion systems, including 3D-printed engines and high-thrust solid-fuel rocket boosters. Designed to carry small satellites weighing up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit, about 500 km above Earth.

Last year, of more than 320 launches globally, the USA led with 181 launches, while China did over 90. Most of these were driven by the private sector in the respective countries. All other spacefaring countries and private firms cumulatively did fewer than 60 launches.

Skyroot plans 2nd launch by 2026-end; future launches from AP & TN

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres held wide-ranging talks in New Delhi on Friday (Sep 11) on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. The two leaders discussed the wars in West Asia and Ukraine, their impact on the global economy and the need to reform multilateral institutions.<h2>Wars, food security and freedom of navigation</h2>The two leaders discussed the impact of ongoing conflicts on food and fertiliser supplies, along with global food security and freedom of navigation. According to the UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson, they “had a wide-ranging discussion on the current conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, and the impact both are having on the global economy, including regarding access to food and fertiliser.” Guterres also “reaffirmed the principle of freedom of navigation.”Their discussions also touched on sustainable development, renewable energy and human-centric artificial intelligence, as global disruptions continue to put pressure on economies and supply chains.<h2>Push for UN Security Council reform</h2>PM Modi and Guterres also stressed the importance of multipolarity and reforming global institutions to reflect present-day geopolitical realities.“Both leaders underscored the significance of multipolarity and the need to reform multilateral institutions, including the UN Security Council, to reflect contemporary realities,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said.The issue carries particular significance for India, which is seeking a larger role in global decision-making. New Delhi formally launched its campaign in July for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term.<h2>India’s BRICS priorities</h2>Guterres congratulated PM Modi on India’s BRICS chairship, while the two leaders discussed priorities for the grouping, including strengthening multilateral institutions.India is hosting the BRICS summit on September 12 and 13, bringing together leaders from member and partner countries. The grouping has become an important platform for emerging economies to coordinate on issues ranging from trade and finance to technology, energy and development.Guterres is scheduled to address the summit’s Open Session on September 13. Modi also wished the UN chief well for the remainder of his tenure, which ends in December 2026.

Modi and Guterres discussed the West Asia and Ukraine wars, global food security, freedom of navigation and UN reforms on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres held wide-ranging talks in New Delhi on Friday (Sep 11) on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. The two leaders discussed the wars in West Asia and Ukraine, their impact on the global economy and the need to reform multilateral institutions. Wars, food security and freedom of navigation The two leaders discussed the impact of ongoing conflicts on food and fertiliser supplies, along with global food security and freedom of navigation. According to the UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson, they “had a wide-ranging discussion on the current conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, and the impact both are having on the global economy, including regarding access to food and fertiliser.” Guterres also “reaffirmed the principle of freedom of navigation.” Their discussions also touched on sustainable development, renewable energy and human-centric artificial intelligence, as global disruptions continue to put pressure on economies and supply chains. Push for UN Security Council reform PM Modi and Guterres also stressed the importance of multipolarity and reforming global institutions to reflect present-day geopolitical realities. “Both leaders underscored the significance of multipolarity and the need to reform multilateral institutions, including the UN Security Council, to reflect contemporary realities,” India’s Ministry of External Affairs said. The issue carries particular significance for India, which is seeking a larger role in global decision-making. New Delhi formally launched its campaign in July for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term. India’s BRICS priorities Guterres congratulated PM Modi on India’s BRICS chairship, while the two leaders discussed priorities for the grouping, including strengthening multilateral institutions. India is hosting the BRICS summit on September 12 and 13, bringing together leaders from member and partner countries. The grouping has become an important platform for emerging economies to coordinate on issues ranging from trade and finance to technology, energy and development. Guterres is scheduled to address the summit’s Open Session on September 13. Modi also wished the UN chief well for the remainder of his tenure, which ends in December 2026.

Modi and Guterres discussed the West Asia and Ukraine wars, global food security, freedom of navigation and UN reforms on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

BRICS Summit: Modi-Guterres discuss West Asia, Ukraine and UN reforms

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) called US President Donald Trump twice on Thursday (Sept 10) and urged him to authorise American strikes against Yemen’s Iran backed Houthi forces, Axios reported, citing two US officials.&nbsp;The request came as Houthi forces advanced towards the strategically important Bab al Mandab Strait, a key Red Sea chokepoint and major maritime trade route. The waterway is also an important route for Saudi oil exports.&nbsp;Trump is said to have declined the request as Washington seeks to keep its military focus on Iran and the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz instead of opening another front in Yemen.&nbsp;The Saudi appeal came as fighting in Yemen intensified, with Houthi forces seizing a key coastal city and moving closer to Bab al Mandab.&nbsp;The latest confrontation between Riyadh and the Houthis began escalating in July after Saudi Arabia stopped an Iranian aircraft carrying senior Houthi officials from returning to Sanaa following the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;The crown prince later sought Trump’s political backing for a possible Saudi strike on Sanaa airport. Riyadh had indicated that it did not require direct US military assistance at the time, and Trump backed the Saudi position.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-unity-on-display-pm-modi-holds-pezeshkian-s-hand-putin-ramaphosa-walk-alongside-1789137013838">BRICS unity on display: PM Modi holds Pezeshkian’s hand; Putin, Ramaphosa walk alongside</a><h2>Saudi Arabia seeks greater US support</h2>The latest request marks a shift from Riyadh’s position in July, when Saudi officials told Washington that they could deal with the Houthis without direct US military involvement, Axios reported.&nbsp;On Thursday, Mohammed bin Salman first called Trump to brief him on the deteriorating battlefield situation as Houthi forces advanced towards the coastal city of Mokha and Saudi backed Yemeni forces pulled back.&nbsp;Several hours later, he called Trump again and pressed him to order US strikes against Houthi positions. Trump is said to have declined the request.&nbsp;US military and civilian officials have told their Saudi counterparts that the current directive is to keep American forces concentrated on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper travelled to Saudi Arabia on Thursday for urgent discussions, according to two people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;Washington is nevertheless expected to increase non combat support for Riyadh. A US official told Axios that the administration would provide intelligence and targeting information on Houthi forces.&nbsp;Around 200 US military personnel are already stationed in Saudi Arabia providing non kinetic support, the official said.&nbsp;A senior Trump administration official said Washington’s priority was keeping the Red Sea open while leaving the broader fight to regional partners.&nbsp;"The United States is focused on protecting our core national security interests — such as ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea — while empowering our regional partners to take the lead in managing and resolving regional security challenges," the official told Axios.<h2>Pakistan clarifies defence pact position</h2>The developments come as Pakistan, a treaty bound ally of Riyadh under the recently signed Mecca Pact defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, has indicated that it is not currently considering military action against the Houthis.&nbsp;Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan issued the clarification on Thursday while responding to questions about the agreement signed by the three countries last month.&nbsp;“There is no such thing under discussion right now ... When time comes (we) will act under the agreement,” Khan said, referring to the pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman twice urged US President Donald Trump to authorise strikes against the Houthis, but Trump declined as Washington keeps its military focus on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) called US President Donald Trump twice on Thursday (Sept 10) and urged him to authorise American strikes against Yemen’s Iran backed Houthi forces, Axios reported, citing two US officials. The request came as Houthi forces advanced towards the strategically important Bab al Mandab Strait, a key Red Sea chokepoint and major maritime trade route. The waterway is also an important route for Saudi oil exports. Trump is said to have declined the request as Washington seeks to keep its military focus on Iran and the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz instead of opening another front in Yemen. The Saudi appeal came as fighting in Yemen intensified, with Houthi forces seizing a key coastal city and moving closer to Bab al Mandab. The latest confrontation between Riyadh and the Houthis began escalating in July after Saudi Arabia stopped an Iranian aircraft carrying senior Houthi officials from returning to Sanaa following the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The crown prince later sought Trump’s political backing for a possible Saudi strike on Sanaa airport. Riyadh had indicated that it did not require direct US military assistance at the time, and Trump backed the Saudi position. Also Read: BRICS unity on display: PM Modi holds Pezeshkian’s hand; Putin, Ramaphosa walk alongside Saudi Arabia seeks greater US support The latest request marks a shift from Riyadh’s position in July, when Saudi officials told Washington that they could deal with the Houthis without direct US military involvement, Axios reported. On Thursday, Mohammed bin Salman first called Trump to brief him on the deteriorating battlefield situation as Houthi forces advanced towards the coastal city of Mokha and Saudi backed Yemeni forces pulled back. Several hours later, he called Trump again and pressed him to order US strikes against Houthi positions. Trump is said to have declined the request. US military and civilian officials have told their Saudi counterparts that the current directive is to keep American forces concentrated on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper travelled to Saudi Arabia on Thursday for urgent discussions, according to two people familiar with the matter. Washington is nevertheless expected to increase non combat support for Riyadh. A US official told Axios that the administration would provide intelligence and targeting information on Houthi forces. Around 200 US military personnel are already stationed in Saudi Arabia providing non kinetic support, the official said. A senior Trump administration official said Washington’s priority was keeping the Red Sea open while leaving the broader fight to regional partners. "The United States is focused on protecting our core national security interests — such as ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea — while empowering our regional partners to take the lead in managing and resolving regional security challenges," the official told Axios. Pakistan clarifies defence pact position The developments come as Pakistan, a treaty bound ally of Riyadh under the recently signed Mecca Pact defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, has indicated that it is not currently considering military action against the Houthis. Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan issued the clarification on Thursday while responding to questions about the agreement signed by the three countries last month. “There is no such thing under discussion right now ... When time comes (we) will act under the agreement,” Khan said, referring to the pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman twice urged US President Donald Trump to authorise strikes against the Houthis, but Trump declined as Washington keeps its military focus on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi prince asks Trump twice to strike Houthis, US president declines: Report

A silent crisis is deepening among young girls in America. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 14 in the United States. But a new study has uncovered another deeply unsettling trend: suicide rates among girls in this age group have risen sharply, narrowing the long-standing gap between boys and girls.&nbsp;The study, conducted by an American psychologist at San Diego State University, analysed federal data spanning 2001 to 2024 to examine gender patterns in youth suicide rates and identify areas where prevention efforts could be better targeted.<h3>Suicide gap between boys and girls nearly disappears</h3>According to the study, the difference in suicide rates between boys and girls aged 10 to 14 in the U.S. had nearly disappeared by 2024.&nbsp;The most striking finding was among girls. The suicide rate for girls in this age group increased almost fourfold between 2007 and 2024. The trend became even more pronounced in recent years.&nbsp;Between 2018 and 2024, the suicide rate among boys aged 10 to 14 fell by 35%, while the rate among girls increased by 13%.<h3>What is driving the rise?</h3>The study did not establish a single, concrete cause behind the increase. However, its author pointed to smartphone access and social media exposure as potentially important factors.The argument is particularly significant amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on children's mental health.&nbsp;Young girls, experts say, can be exposed to relentless comparisons with peers and influencers, appearance-related pressure, cyberbullying and disrupted sleep.&nbsp;Constant exposure to carefully curated images of seemingly perfect bodies and lifestyles can also affect how young people perceive themselves.<h3>Social media and the pressure to fit in</h3>For many young girls, social media can turn everyday experiences into a constant cycle of comparison.&nbsp;The pressure to look a certain way, gain approval, receive likes or fit into a particular social group can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.&nbsp;The study's findings come against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, when children and teenagers spent significantly more time at home and, in many cases, increasingly relied on digital platforms for social interaction.&nbsp;However, the researchers did not conclude that social media alone is responsible for rising suicide rates.&nbsp;Instead, the findings point to a complex problem involving multiple social, psychological and environmental factors.<h3>Meta faces growing scrutiny</h3>The issue has also intensified scrutiny of social media companies in the U.S.&nbsp;Amid lawsuits and growing concerns over the effects of social media on young users, Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, has faced increasing pressure to strengthen protections for children and teenagers.&nbsp;The debate centres on whether platforms should do more to limit excessive use, reduce harmful content and protect young users from online pressures.<h3>Why the findings matter</h3>The sharp increase in suicide rates among girls aged 10 to 14 is particularly concerning because this is a very young age group. It also highlights the need for gender-specific suicide prevention strategies, rather than assuming that the same interventions will work equally well for boys and girls.&nbsp;Social media may not be the sole explanation for the trend. But its role in shaping children's social lives, sleep patterns, self-image and exposure to peer pressure makes it an issue policymakers, parents, schools and technology companies cannot ignore.&nbsp;The study therefore serves as another warning sign: the mental-health crisis among children is evolving, and prevention strategies may need to evolve with it.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or feels at immediate risk, seek help from emergency services or a qualified mental-health professional immediately.

The suicide rate for girls in this age group increased almost fourfold between 2007 and 2024. The trend became even more pronounced in recent years.

A silent crisis is deepening among young girls in America. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 14 in the United States. But a new study has uncovered another deeply unsettling trend: suicide rates among girls in this age group have risen sharply, narrowing the long-standing gap between boys and girls. The study, conducted by an American psychologist at San Diego State University, analysed federal data spanning 2001 to 2024 to examine gender patterns in youth suicide rates and identify areas where prevention efforts could be better targeted. Suicide gap between boys and girls nearly disappears According to the study, the difference in suicide rates between boys and girls aged 10 to 14 in the U.S. had nearly disappeared by 2024. The most striking finding was among girls. The suicide rate for girls in this age group increased almost fourfold between 2007 and 2024. The trend became even more pronounced in recent years. Between 2018 and 2024, the suicide rate among boys aged 10 to 14 fell by 35%, while the rate among girls increased by 13%. What is driving the rise? The study did not establish a single, concrete cause behind the increase. However, its author pointed to smartphone access and social media exposure as potentially important factors. The argument is particularly significant amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on children's mental health. Young girls, experts say, can be exposed to relentless comparisons with peers and influencers, appearance-related pressure, cyberbullying and disrupted sleep. Constant exposure to carefully curated images of seemingly perfect bodies and lifestyles can also affect how young people perceive themselves. Social media and the pressure to fit in For many young girls, social media can turn everyday experiences into a constant cycle of comparison. The pressure to look a certain way, gain approval, receive likes or fit into a particular social group can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. The study's findings come against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, when children and teenagers spent significantly more time at home and, in many cases, increasingly relied on digital platforms for social interaction. However, the researchers did not conclude that social media alone is responsible for rising suicide rates. Instead, the findings point to a complex problem involving multiple social, psychological and environmental factors. Meta faces growing scrutiny The issue has also intensified scrutiny of social media companies in the U.S. Amid lawsuits and growing concerns over the effects of social media on young users, Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, has faced increasing pressure to strengthen protections for children and teenagers. The debate centres on whether platforms should do more to limit excessive use, reduce harmful content and protect young users from online pressures. Why the findings matter The sharp increase in suicide rates among girls aged 10 to 14 is particularly concerning because this is a very young age group. It also highlights the need for gender-specific suicide prevention strategies, rather than assuming that the same interventions will work equally well for boys and girls. Social media may not be the sole explanation for the trend. But its role in shaping children's social lives, sleep patterns, self-image and exposure to peer pressure makes it an issue policymakers, parents, schools and technology companies cannot ignore. The study therefore serves as another warning sign: the mental-health crisis among children is evolving, and prevention strategies may need to evolve with it. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or feels at immediate risk, seek help from emergency services or a qualified mental-health professional immediately.

The suicide rate for girls in this age group increased almost fourfold between 2007 and 2024. The trend became even more pronounced in recent years.

Suicide among girls aged 10–14 in US grows 4 times from 2007: Study

BRICS arrives at its 18th summit in New Delhi with an expanded membership of 11 countries and 10 partners, together accounting for close to half the world's population and roughly 40 per cent of global GDP.&nbsp;According to a briefing by the research group Climate Trends, over the past year, India's chairship has convened more than 350 meetings across 25 cities, producing around 20 sectoral agreements on energy, agriculture and urban planning. But the same briefing flags a consistent pattern behind those numbers: the outcomes are voluntary and non-binding, and none of them is backed by a dedicated financing mechanism — a gap that becomes harder to ignore against the New Development Bank's own reported climate-lending figures, which sit below the target the bank has set for itself.&nbsp;On energy specifically, that BRICS has adopted guiding principles on energy storage and smart grids, and launched a Digital Centre of Excellence for Smart Grids and Energy Storage, with cooperation extending to hydrogen, biofuels, critical minerals and carbon capture. The bloc's membership spans both major energy producers and consumers, alongside countries holding significant renewable-energy capacity.&nbsp;Dammu Ravi, former Secretary for Economic Affairs at India's Ministry of External Affairs, frames this as an opening for joint projects rather than parallel national ones. "No single country can do these energy projects alone," he said, citing China's capital, technology and critical-mineral capacity, India's renewable-energy investment base, Brazil's experience with flex-fuel biofuels and Russia's nuclear expertise, including small modular reactors. Combined, he said, these strengths could support what he called "gigawatt scale mega projects." He added that "political and bilateral issues" among members would still need to be resolved.&nbsp;Beyond energy generation, the briefing lists BRICS principles on community-based climate adaptation and traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, along with initiatives on regenerative agriculture, digital farming and climate-resilient logistics, and a proposed urban mobility and research network aimed at building climate and disaster risk into city planning. It characterizes all of these as cooperation and knowledge-sharing platforms rather than binding commitments.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/economic-bridges-not-barriers-pm-modi-flags-trade-barriers-seafarer-safety-at-brics-business-forum-1789132762442">‘Economic bridges, not barriers’: PM Modi flags trade barriers, seafarer safety at BRICS Business Forum</a>&nbsp;On financing, according to &nbsp;the New Development Bank's own figures, it’s authorized capital of $100 billion, against $53.4 billion subscribed and roughly $42.9 billion in cumulative approvals across 139 projects. The Bank reported climate finance stood at $8.1 billion at the end of 2024, or 23 per cent of the Bank's portfolio, with mitigation lending far outpacing adaptation.&nbsp;Ravi argues that renewable-energy models developed in India and China could be replicated in other parts of the Global South, particularly Africa, but says the missing elements are financing structures, incentives and mechanisms to reduce investment risk.&nbsp;Experts also raise a technology question that BRICS has not yet addressed: rising electricity demand from data centres tied to AI and digital agriculture initiatives, in economies where additional power generation still relies significantly on coal.&nbsp;On fossil fuels, the briefing notes that BRICS energy ministers have emphasized flexibility based on national circumstances and development priorities, and that the bloc continues to recognize a continuing role for fossil fuels alongside its just-transition language — a position it describes as consistent with the bloc's stance in prior years rather than a new shift.&nbsp;Li Shuo, director of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute, described the bloc's approach as "variable geometry" — cooperation where interests overlap even amid disagreement elsewhere. "Climate change is clearly one area where this diverse group has a shared interest," he said, pointing to falling clean-energy costs and mounting climate impacts as reasons for collective action.&nbsp;The period after the summit is the real test of the chairship: whether the agreements reached this year convert into investment, technology partnerships and actual projects. With COP31 set to open in Antalya in November, &nbsp;that BRICS' positions on adaptation finance, just transition and carbon accounting could shape what a large share of the Global South brings into those negotiations.

BRICS’ expanded climate cooperation under India’s chairship has produced hundreds of meetings and sectoral agreements, but experts flag the lack of dedicated financing and binding commitments as the bloc’s key challenge in turning plans into projects.

BRICS arrives at its 18th summit in New Delhi with an expanded membership of 11 countries and 10 partners, together accounting for close to half the world's population and roughly 40 per cent of global GDP. According to a briefing by the research group Climate Trends, over the past year, India's chairship has convened more than 350 meetings across 25 cities, producing around 20 sectoral agreements on energy, agriculture and urban planning. But the same briefing flags a consistent pattern behind those numbers: the outcomes are voluntary and non-binding, and none of them is backed by a dedicated financing mechanism — a gap that becomes harder to ignore against the New Development Bank's own reported climate-lending figures, which sit below the target the bank has set for itself. On energy specifically, that BRICS has adopted guiding principles on energy storage and smart grids, and launched a Digital Centre of Excellence for Smart Grids and Energy Storage, with cooperation extending to hydrogen, biofuels, critical minerals and carbon capture. The bloc's membership spans both major energy producers and consumers, alongside countries holding significant renewable-energy capacity. Dammu Ravi, former Secretary for Economic Affairs at India's Ministry of External Affairs, frames this as an opening for joint projects rather than parallel national ones. "No single country can do these energy projects alone," he said, citing China's capital, technology and critical-mineral capacity, India's renewable-energy investment base, Brazil's experience with flex-fuel biofuels and Russia's nuclear expertise, including small modular reactors. Combined, he said, these strengths could support what he called "gigawatt scale mega projects." He added that "political and bilateral issues" among members would still need to be resolved. Beyond energy generation, the briefing lists BRICS principles on community-based climate adaptation and traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, along with initiatives on regenerative agriculture, digital farming and climate-resilient logistics, and a proposed urban mobility and research network aimed at building climate and disaster risk into city planning. It characterizes all of these as cooperation and knowledge-sharing platforms rather than binding commitments. Also Read: ‘Economic bridges, not barriers’: PM Modi flags trade barriers, seafarer safety at BRICS Business Forum On financing, according to the New Development Bank's own figures, it’s authorized capital of $100 billion, against $53.4 billion subscribed and roughly $42.9 billion in cumulative approvals across 139 projects. The Bank reported climate finance stood at $8.1 billion at the end of 2024, or 23 per cent of the Bank's portfolio, with mitigation lending far outpacing adaptation. Ravi argues that renewable-energy models developed in India and China could be replicated in other parts of the Global South, particularly Africa, but says the missing elements are financing structures, incentives and mechanisms to reduce investment risk. Experts also raise a technology question that BRICS has not yet addressed: rising electricity demand from data centres tied to AI and digital agriculture initiatives, in economies where additional power generation still relies significantly on coal. On fossil fuels, the briefing notes that BRICS energy ministers have emphasized flexibility based on national circumstances and development priorities, and that the bloc continues to recognize a continuing role for fossil fuels alongside its just-transition language — a position it describes as consistent with the bloc's stance in prior years rather than a new shift. Li Shuo, director of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute, described the bloc's approach as "variable geometry" — cooperation where interests overlap even amid disagreement elsewhere. "Climate change is clearly one area where this diverse group has a shared interest," he said, pointing to falling clean-energy costs and mounting climate impacts as reasons for collective action. The period after the summit is the real test of the chairship: whether the agreements reached this year convert into investment, technology partnerships and actual projects. With COP31 set to open in Antalya in November, that BRICS' positions on adaptation finance, just transition and carbon accounting could shape what a large share of the Global South brings into those negotiations.

BRICS’ expanded climate cooperation under India’s chairship has produced hundreds of meetings and sectoral agreements, but experts flag the lack of dedicated financing and binding commitments as the bloc’s key challenge in turning plans into projects.

BRICS built 350 meetings' worth of climate cooperation this year, almost none of it comes with money

Vice President Kashim Shettima has touched down in New Delhi to stand in for President Bola Tinubu at the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit, as Abuja works to convert its partner-country status into concrete trade and investment wins with India and other emerging powers.He heads a heavyweight delegation that includes Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole, Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijani, and Environment Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal, alongside other senior officials. The summit runs under the banner of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc.Odumegwu-Ojukwu said ahead of the trip that Nigeria wants to explore partnerships with India spanning agriculture, artificial intelligence, technology and the digital economy, pointing to India's success in deploying tech to engage its youthful population as a model worth studying.Oduwole, meanwhile, said trade between the two countries has historically touched around $14 billion, and that the government is working to rebuild and strengthen that relationship. She noted that Indian investors have already signalled interest in meeting the Nigerian team during the visit, with talks also expected with other BRICS members. A key priority, she added, is boosting India's purchases of Nigerian crude, restoring a market that was once a major outlet for the country's oil exports.Beyond commercial talks, Shettima is billed to join wider BRICS discussions on global growth, resilience and sustainable development, plus one-on-one meetings aimed at advancing Nigeria's interests in trade, agriculture, technology and industrial growth.Nigeria became a BRICS partner country in January 2025, a status that opened the door to deeper South-South cooperation and stronger diplomatic and economic engagement with major emerging markets. The delegation is also expected to join the BRICS open session and other sideline events during the summit.

Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has touched down in New Delhi to stand in for President Bola Tinubu at the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit, as Abuja works to convert its partner-country status into concrete trade and investment wins with India and other emerging powers. He heads a heavyweight delegation that includes Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole, Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijani, and Environment Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal, alongside other senior officials. The summit runs under the banner of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said ahead of the trip that Nigeria wants to explore partnerships with India spanning agriculture, artificial intelligence, technology and the digital economy, pointing to India's success in deploying tech to engage its youthful population as a model worth studying. Oduwole, meanwhile, said trade between the two countries has historically touched around $14 billion, and that the government is working to rebuild and strengthen that relationship. She noted that Indian investors have already signalled interest in meeting the Nigerian team during the visit, with talks also expected with other BRICS members. A key priority, she added, is boosting India's purchases of Nigerian crude, restoring a market that was once a major outlet for the country's oil exports. Beyond commercial talks, Shettima is billed to join wider BRICS discussions on global growth, resilience and sustainable development, plus one-on-one meetings aimed at advancing Nigeria's interests in trade, agriculture, technology and industrial growth. Nigeria became a BRICS partner country in January 2025, a status that opened the door to deeper South-South cooperation and stronger diplomatic and economic engagement with major emerging markets. The delegation is also expected to join the BRICS open session and other sideline events during the summit.

Nigeria's presence at the gathering reflects a broader strategy: turn BRICS membership into real economic gains through fresh investment, wider market access and closer ties with fast-growing economies outside the traditional Western bloc.

VP Shettima rallies Nigeria’s BRICS bid for oil deals, tech ties and jobs for youth

Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, America once again pauses to read the names, lower the flags and remember nearly 3,000 people murdered on a morning that transformed the United States and much of the world.But a quarter-century later, remembrance alone may no longer be enough.The more difficult question is whether America learned from what followed.September 11 produced an extraordinary moment of national unity. It also unleashed a global War on Terror that would span presidencies, continents and generations.George W. Bush invaded Afghanistan to dismantle Al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban government that sheltered it. But his administration then invaded Iraq over weapons of mass destruction that were never found.Barack Obama eventually oversaw the operation that killed Osama bin Laden, but his administration dramatically expanded America's use of drone warfare.Joe Biden ended America's longest war by withdrawing from Afghanistan in 2021, but the chaotic final evacuation from Kabul left another painful image in the history of the conflict.Donald Trump built part of his political identity around rejecting America's "endless wars". Yet 25 years after 9/11, the United States once again finds itself fighting a prolonged Middle Eastern conflict — this time against Iran.That contradiction becomes even sharper when compared with American public opinion.A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds 48 per cent of Americans believe the Afghanistan war was not worth its toll and 51 per cent say the same about Iraq. Just 25 per cent believe the current Iran conflict has been worth it.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RaceToPower?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaceToPower</a> | 25 years after 9/11, America remembers. But after Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran — and a rising fear of extremism from within — has America actually learned? THE VERDICT with <a href="https://x.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/September11?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#September11</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/911Anniversary?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#911Anniversary</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheVerdict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/YLzzYu9mfH">pic.twitter.com/YLzzYu9mfH</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2098452221021352377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>The threat came home</h2>Perhaps the greatest transformation, however, is in what Americans now fear.September 11 focused American attention overwhelmingly on terrorism originating overseas.Today, 61 per cent of Americans say ideology-driven attacks by domestic extremists pose the greater threat, compared with 34 per cent who point to extremists abroad. When asked more broadly about threats to ordinary Americans, mass shootings ranked even higher.America spent decades hunting terrorism thousands of kilometres from its shores. Twenty-five years later, its citizens increasingly fear violence emerging from within their own country.That is an extraordinary reversal.<h2>The people 9/11 never stopped killing</h2>Then there is another legacy — one measured not in geopolitics but in hospital wards.Thousands of first responders, recovery workers, survivors and residents have suffered illnesses associated with exposure to the toxic aftermath of the World Trade Center collapse. This year's commemoration even added, for the first time, a moment of silence for people who later died from 9/11-related illnesses.And just days before the anniversary, Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration released the first 170,000 pages of previously withheld city records concerning air quality and the government's response after the attacks. The release followed years of litigation and campaigning by 9/11 advocates. More documents are expected over the next year.It creates a striking political juxtaposition.Former mayor Rudy Giuliani, whose public image became inseparable from his leadership after September 11, has been among Mamdani's fiercest critics. Yet Mamdani's administration is now opening records concerning what City Hall knew about toxic conditions after Ground Zero and when it knew it.For survivors and families, accountability cannot end with memorial ceremonies."Never forget" must also mean never forgetting those who survived the morning but have spent decades living with its consequences.<h2>America's unfinished lesson</h2>There is no denying that America changed after September 11.Airport security was transformed. Intelligence agencies were reorganised. Al-Qaeda's leadership was devastated. Osama bin Laden was killed.But America also paid heavily for some of the choices made in the shadow of those burning towers: long wars, expanded surveillance, enormous expenditure, civilian casualties abroad and deep political arguments at home.A quarter-century later, America is considerably more politically divided than the country that briefly united on September 12, 2001. The Financial Times notes how starkly today's polarisation contrasts with the extraordinary national solidarity immediately following the attacks.That may be the uncomfortable lesson of this anniversary.Grief without reflection can become policy.Fear without restraint can become war.And remembrance without accountability can become ceremony.America has kept its promise to never forget September 11.Twenty-five years later, the harder question is whether it has finally learned from everything that came after.&nbsp;

Donald Trump built part of his political identity around rejecting America's "endless wars". Yet 25 years after 9/11, the United States once again finds itself fighting a prolonged Middle Eastern conflict — this time against Iran.

Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, America once again pauses to read the names, lower the flags and remember nearly 3,000 people murdered on a morning that transformed the United States and much of the world. But a quarter-century later, remembrance alone may no longer be enough. The more difficult question is whether America learned from what followed. September 11 produced an extraordinary moment of national unity. It also unleashed a global War on Terror that would span presidencies, continents and generations. George W. Bush invaded Afghanistan to dismantle Al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban government that sheltered it. But his administration then invaded Iraq over weapons of mass destruction that were never found. Barack Obama eventually oversaw the operation that killed Osama bin Laden, but his administration dramatically expanded America's use of drone warfare. Joe Biden ended America's longest war by withdrawing from Afghanistan in 2021, but the chaotic final evacuation from Kabul left another painful image in the history of the conflict. Donald Trump built part of his political identity around rejecting America's "endless wars". Yet 25 years after 9/11, the United States once again finds itself fighting a prolonged Middle Eastern conflict — this time against Iran. That contradiction becomes even sharper when compared with American public opinion. A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds 48 per cent of Americans believe the Afghanistan war was not worth its toll and 51 per cent say the same about Iraq. Just 25 per cent believe the current Iran conflict has been worth it.

Donald Trump built part of his political identity around rejecting America's "endless wars". Yet 25 years after 9/11, the United States once again finds itself fighting a prolonged Middle Eastern conflict — this time against Iran.

The Verdict | 25 years after 9/11: America remembers — but has it learned?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday (Sep 11) on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The talks with the leaders come at a time when both Russia and Iran are gripped by ongoing wars. While Russia has been engaged in a deadly conflict with Ukraine for more than four years, Iran is trading strikes with the United States.India, which shares good relations with both nations, is no stranger to the effects of the two conflicts. As tensions in the Middle East escalated, disrupting a key energy supply route through the Strait of Hormuz, New Delhi turned to Moscow to meet its crude oil needs. However, both conflicts have not only impacted India’s trade and economic decisions but have also shaken the country with a human cost, with vessels being attacked during the hostilities near Hormuz and Black Sea.<h2>What did PM Modi discuss with Putin and Pezeshkian about wars?</h2>During the talks with Putin and Pezeshkian, the Indian prime minister called for an end to the conflicts, stating India’s firm position for “dialogue and diplomacy” to reach a solution. He urged that security remains a key issue in both regions. PM Modi also raised New Delhi’s concerns over the protection of Indian seafarers and commercial vessels. He also stressed that freedom of navigation and commerce should not be disrupted due to ongoing wars.Following the bilateral meeting between PM Modi and Putin, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the two leaders “exchanged views on issues of mutual interest in the regional and global sphere, including conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region. PM reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the way forward in resolving conflicts and India stands ready to assist in peace efforts.”According to the MEA, PM Modi and Pezeshkian “exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia. Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, and the safety and well-being of seafarers.”Speaking at the BRICS Business Forum, PM Modi reiterated the importance of secure supply routes for global trade. “Global trade progress is possible only when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe. That is why India is a staunch supporter of freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers,” he said.<h2>Impact of wars on Indian seafarers</h2>Two Indian seafarers reportedly lost their lives in separate ship-related incidents in recent months near the Strait of Hormuz. While five Indian sailors were killed and several others were missing and stranded after attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea.India has a major presence in the global shipping workforce. Government figures show that more than 300,000 Indian seafarers are employed on ships operating across international waters, making the country the world’s third-largest supplier of maritime workers.In response to the deaths and the worsening security situation, Indian authorities have urged Indian nationals to assess security risks before sailing through the Strait of Hormuz and Black Sea.

Modi’s talks with Putin and Pezeshkian focused on ending wars through diplomacy, protecting Indian seafarers, and keeping key trade routes open amid risks in Hormuz and the Black Sea.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday (Sep 11) on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The talks with the leaders come at a time when both Russia and Iran are gripped by ongoing wars. While Russia has been engaged in a deadly conflict with Ukraine for more than four years, Iran is trading strikes with the United States. India, which shares good relations with both nations, is no stranger to the effects of the two conflicts. As tensions in the Middle East escalated, disrupting a key energy supply route through the Strait of Hormuz, New Delhi turned to Moscow to meet its crude oil needs. However, both conflicts have not only impacted India’s trade and economic decisions but have also shaken the country with a human cost, with vessels being attacked during the hostilities near Hormuz and Black Sea. What did PM Modi discuss with Putin and Pezeshkian about wars? During the talks with Putin and Pezeshkian, the Indian prime minister called for an end to the conflicts, stating India’s firm position for “dialogue and diplomacy” to reach a solution. He urged that security remains a key issue in both regions. PM Modi also raised New Delhi’s concerns over the protection of Indian seafarers and commercial vessels. He also stressed that freedom of navigation and commerce should not be disrupted due to ongoing wars. Following the bilateral meeting between PM Modi and Putin, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the two leaders “exchanged views on issues of mutual interest in the regional and global sphere, including conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region. PM reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the way forward in resolving conflicts and India stands ready to assist in peace efforts.” According to the MEA, PM Modi and Pezeshkian “exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia. Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, and the safety and well-being of seafarers.” Speaking at the BRICS Business Forum, PM Modi reiterated the importance of secure supply routes for global trade. “Global trade progress is possible only when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe. That is why India is a staunch supporter of freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers,” he said. Impact of wars on Indian seafarers Two Indian seafarers reportedly lost their lives in separate ship-related incidents in recent months near the Strait of Hormuz. While five Indian sailors were killed and several others were missing and stranded after attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea. India has a major presence in the global shipping workforce. Government figures show that more than 300,000 Indian seafarers are employed on ships operating across international waters, making the country the world’s third-largest supplier of maritime workers. In response to the deaths and the worsening security situation, Indian authorities have urged Indian nationals to assess security risks before sailing through the Strait of Hormuz and Black Sea.

Modi’s talks with Putin and Pezeshkian focused on ending wars through diplomacy, protecting Indian seafarers, and keeping key trade routes open amid risks in Hormuz and the Black Sea.

Wars, trade and seafarers: What Modi’s Putin, Pezeshkian meetings mean for India | BRICS Summit 2026

Iran on Friday said it would be meeting Gulf states in Oman on Monday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping waterway, which Tehran blockaded after war with US and Israel. Ismail Bqaie, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced plans for a regional meeting involving countries bordering the Gulf.&nbsp;"This meeting is intended to promote better understanding among the countries of the region and help strengthen shared regional security," the ministry said in a statement on Friday, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;<h2>After Hormuz, another shipping route at risk?</h2>&nbsp;As Iran seeks to resolve the Strait of Hormuz, there is another shipping route at risk.&nbsp;Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have taken control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coast, including areas near the Bab al-Mandeb shipping lane, according to various reports. They have seized Mayun, a strategic island in the strait located at the entrance to the Red Sea, and the key port city of Mocha.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-still-sending-terrorists-to-where-they-belong-says-trump-at-9-11-memorial-event-1789137990009">'We are still sending terrorists to where they belong', says Trump at 9/11 memorial event</a>&nbsp;The development has raised concerns over disruption of the key shipping route that may threaten oil exports from Saudi Arabia. In retaliation, Saudi Arabia also launched airstrikes on Mocha airport.&nbsp;The Bab al-Mandeb is a critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the wider Indian Ocean. Control of islands around the strait could give the Houthis greater ability to monitor or disrupt shipping passing through the waterway.&nbsp;The route has assumed greater importance after Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has led to major shipping disruption.&nbsp;The Bab al-Mandeb is also an important route for Saudi oil exports and international commercial shipping. The waterway includes four strategic islands – Zuqar, Mayun and the two Hanish islands.&nbsp;

As Iran seeks to resolve the Hormuz, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have taken control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coast, including areas near the Bab al-Mandeb shipping lane, putting another shipping route at risk.

Iran on Friday said it would be meeting Gulf states in Oman on Monday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping waterway, which Tehran blockaded after war with US and Israel. Ismail Bqaie, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced plans for a regional meeting involving countries bordering the Gulf. "This meeting is intended to promote better understanding among the countries of the region and help strengthen shared regional security," the ministry said in a statement on Friday, as reported by AFP. After Hormuz, another shipping route at risk? As Iran seeks to resolve the Strait of Hormuz, there is another shipping route at risk. Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have taken control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coast, including areas near the Bab al-Mandeb shipping lane, according to various reports. They have seized Mayun, a strategic island in the strait located at the entrance to the Red Sea, and the key port city of Mocha. ALSO READ: 'We are still sending terrorists to where they belong', says Trump at 9/11 memorial event The development has raised concerns over disruption of the key shipping route that may threaten oil exports from Saudi Arabia. In retaliation, Saudi Arabia also launched airstrikes on Mocha airport. The Bab al-Mandeb is a critical maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the wider Indian Ocean. Control of islands around the strait could give the Houthis greater ability to monitor or disrupt shipping passing through the waterway. The route has assumed greater importance after Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has led to major shipping disruption. The Bab al-Mandeb is also an important route for Saudi oil exports and international commercial shipping. The waterway includes four strategic islands – Zuqar, Mayun and the two Hanish islands.

As Iran seeks to resolve the Hormuz, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis have taken control of Yemen’s entire Red Sea coast, including areas near the Bab al-Mandeb shipping lane, putting another shipping route at risk.

Iran says will discuss Strait of Hormuz with Gulf states to 'promote better understanding'

The 9/11 terror attacks left thousands dead. 25 years on, the wounds and memories are still fresh. While many lost their lives as the Twin Towers in New York were hit by hijacked planes, there were also several who narrowly escaped the disaster and lived to tell the tale. Missed trains and flights, missed appointments, and other mishaps helped several escape death on that fateful day in September 2001. One such story is of Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg. The actor was scheduled to fly on American Airlines Flight 11, which was the first plane that crashed into the World Trade Center. But a last-minute decision saved his life.&nbsp;<h2>Mark Wahlberg narrowly escaped 9/11 attacks</h2>On the day of the attacks, Wahlberg was reportedly scheduled to fly on American Airlines Flight 11- the first plane that crashed into the World Trade Centre.&nbsp;&nbsp;The actor and his friend made a last -minute change in travel plans and decided not to fly to Los Angeles, where was the plane was headed. Instead, Wahlberg attended the Toronto film festival.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/9-11-through-cinema-films-that-remind-you-of-the-deadly-attack-1789113424093">9/11 through cinema: Films that remind you of the deadly attack</a>&nbsp;

File image of Mark Wahlberg

<h2>Wahlberg’s controversial remark years later</h2>While the actor had a narrow escape thanks to a last-minute change of plans, years later, he courted controversy for making a remark about the hijacked plane. “If I was on that plane with my kids, it wouldn’t have went down like it did,” Wahlberg told Men’s Journal in an interview some years later. “There would have been a lot of blood in that first-class cabin and then me saying, ‘Okay, we’re going to land somewhere safely, don’t worry.’” The remark did not go down well with most. The actor particularly faced backlash and criticism from victims’ families. After a public outcry, Wahlberg issued a formal apology. He called his comments irresponsible and ridiculous, stating it was wrong to speculate or suggest he would have acted differently than the passengers on board.

Hollywood actor Mark Wahlberg was scheduled to fly on American Airlines Flight 11, which was the first plane to strike the World Trade Center. However, the actor changed his plans at the last minute and thus escaped the horrific tragedy.

The 9/11 terror attacks left thousands dead. 25 years on, the wounds and memories are still fresh. While many lost their lives as the Twin Towers in New York were hit by hijacked planes, there were also several who narrowly escaped the disaster and lived to tell the tale. Missed trains and flights, missed appointments, and other mishaps helped several escape death on that fateful day in September 2001. One such story is of Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg. The actor was scheduled to fly on American Airlines Flight 11, which was the first plane that crashed into the World Trade Center. But a last-minute decision saved his life. Mark Wahlberg narrowly escaped 9/11 attacks On the day of the attacks, Wahlberg was reportedly scheduled to fly on American Airlines Flight 11- the first plane that crashed into the World Trade Centre. The actor and his friend made a last -minute change in travel plans and decided not to fly to Los Angeles, where was the plane was headed. Instead, Wahlberg attended the Toronto film festival. Also read: 9/11 through cinema: Films that remind you of the deadly attack

Hollywood actor Mark Wahlberg was scheduled to fly on American Airlines Flight 11, which was the first plane to strike the World Trade Center. However, the actor changed his plans at the last minute and thus escaped the horrific tragedy.

Did you know THIS actor narrowly escaped the 9/11 terror attacks due to a last-minute change of travel plans?

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