DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:47:24 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/international/to-navigate-india-us-ties-diaspora-leaders-call-for-a-pragmatic-approach-641886.html Washington Oct 8 Prominent voices from the Indian American community have urged stronger IndiaUS cooperation and a more active role for the diaspora in shaping policy conversations During a panel discussion organised on Tuesday by India Abroad a diasporafocused publication in the United States Atul Keshap the President of the USIndia Business Council and former Charge dAffairs at the US Embassy in New Delhi argued for quiet diplomacy in the current challenging timesThese moments are difficult I think for the diaspora looking at these last few months the thing that they probably ask themselves is how can they be effective How can they be helpful How can they be constructive And sometimes in moments like this its better to engage in quiet diplomacy he addedKeshap also spoke about the recent H1B visa crackdown from the Trump administration calling it a decision driven by domestic politicsI think in a country as diverse and as layered as India a democracy as well Indians would understand that there are domestic political compulsions that may change how the United States interfaces with the world he notedThe debate over the role of the Indian American community in the US has intensified after Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor recently called the silence of the diaspora puzzling even as ties between Washington and New Delhi worsenedMR Rangaswami the founder of Indiaspora a Californiabased nonprofit organisation defended the role of the community calling it a living bridge between the US and IndiaThe diaspora as a whole has remitted last year 135 billion to India out of which 30 billion came from the US The Indian Americans themselves have impacted this country tremendously We are 1 per cent of the population and pay 6 per cent of the taxes We are 75000 doctors in the US who serve 30 million patients The diaspora lives here works here creates its wealth here but we also help India he stressedAsha Jadeja Motwani a Silicon Valleybased venture capitalist advocated deeper connections within the ruling Republican partyCrudely speaking really the best thing that seems to work is to write a cheque towards certain things I think its a wise thing to do if you can afford it Go for dinners hosted by the Republican Party and get to know people start forming a relationship with the Republicans she addedRangaswami added that any outreach by the diaspora to the US government or policymakers should be framed with an America First kind of positioningI think any such movebringing people to Washington to talk to government has to have an America First kind of positioningAs opposed to saying in Indiaso and so is being done Its like what is the relevance to America So anything lobbying or otherwise in Washington has to be done with America first he advisedKeshap asserted that the Indian side should understand that politics in America is changing very fast and in three years we are going to be a very different AmericaIts going to be sweeping The ambition of this administration to change the economic configuration and how we interface with the world is so ambitious that countries have to decide if they want to adjust to that and this leads to the question of relevance and reciprocity if we can be relevant to one another that is the glue of taking a relationship forward he concluded IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/to-navigate-india-us-ties-diaspora-leaders-call-for-a-pragmatic-approach-641886.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/nvidia-to-keep-sponsoring-h-1b-visas-despite-crackdown-report-641887.html Washington Oct 8 Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has reportedly assured his staff that his company will continue to sponsor H1B visas and cover all the costs associated with the applications A report by Business Insider cited Huang who wrote in a note to employees As one of many immigrants at Nvidia I know that the opportunities weve found in America have profoundly shaped our lives adding that the miracle of Nvidia built by all of you and by brilliant colleagues around the world would not be possible without immigrationThe article quotes Huang as saying that legal immigration remains essential to ensuring the US continues to lead in technology and ideas and that the Trump administrations recent changes reaffirm thisAt NVIDIA we built our company with extraordinary people from around the world and we will continue to sponsor H1B applicants and cover all associated fees If you have any questions about H1B visas please reach out to NVIDIAImmigrationOn September 19 US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to significantly curtail the H1B visa programme and imposed a hefty 100000 application feeWhile signing the proclamation Trump had said the incentive is to hire American workersCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had also defended the move saying the policy would discourage companies from hiring foreign workersSo the whole idea is no more will these big tech companies or other big companies train foreign workers They have to pay the government 100000 then they have to pay the employee So its just not economicEarlier this month a group of unions education professionals and religious bodies sued the Trump administration over the H1B visa move in the Northern District of California calling the fee unprecedented unjustified and unlawfulThe complaint said that the President has no authority to unilaterally alter the comprehensive statutory scheme created by Congress and the option of exceptions opens the door to selective enforcement and corruption IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/nvidia-to-keep-sponsoring-h-1b-visas-despite-crackdown-report-641887.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/ecuador-reports-assassination-attempt-on-president-noboa-641888.html Quito Oct 8 The Ecuadorian government said it had filed a criminal complaint over an alleged assassination attempt on President Daniel Noboa during a visit to the southern province of Canar Environment and Energy Minister Ines Manzano said Noboas motorcade came under attack in the town of El Tambo on Tuesday when it was heading to a local stadium for the launch of new public works Xinhua news agency reportedAbout 500 people appeared and began throwing stones and there are also bullet marks on the presidents car Manzano told reporters adding that Noboa was unharmedPolice arrested five suspects who will face terrorism charges and several vehicles in the convoy were damagedThe presidential office accused the attackers of trying to block the inauguration of a community projectThe incident occurred on the 16th day of nationwide protests led by indigenous communities against the governments decision to end diesel subsidies on September 12 a move that sharply increased fuel prices and has triggered widespread unrestEarlier the Ecuadorian President had ordered the extension of the state of emergency in four coastal provinces and one canton for 30 days amid escalating violence linked to organized crimeThe extension issued under Executive Decree 175 applies to the provinces of Guayas El Oro Los Rios and Manabi as well as the canton of Echeandia in the central province of BolivarThe emergency initially declared for 60 days in August was imposed in response to what authorities described as serious internal unrestUnder the decree constitutional protections against home searches and the privacy of correspondence are suspended IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/ecuador-reports-assassination-attempt-on-president-noboa-641888.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/hamas-links-hostage-release-to-full-israeli-withdrawal-from-gaza-in-ceasefire-talks-641889.html Gaza Oct 8 A Hamas source said that the group has demanded that any release of Israeli hostages be directly tied to a clear timetable for Israels complete withdrawal from Gaza as the groups indirect negotiations with Israel continue in Egypt The Hamas delegation during the negotiations in the Red Sea city of Sharm El Sheikh insisted that the release of the last hostage must coincide with the final Israeli pullout from Palestinian territories the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymityMeanwhile Hamass senior official Khalil alHayya who is leading the Hamas delegation told Egypts stateaffiliated Al Qahera News TV channel on Tuesday that his group is ready with all responsibility to stop the war and his delegation arrived in Egypt with the direct and explicit goal of achieving an immediate and permanent halt to the conflict as well as a prisonerhostage swap Xinhua news agency reportedIsrael continues its killing and destruction and repeatedly breaks its promises regarding halting aggression alHayya said urging international guarantees to ensure a final and comprehensive end to the conflictTuesday marked the second day of the indirect talks between Israeli and Hamas delegations in Sharm El SheikhAn Egyptian source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity that the talks on Tuesday focused on a prisonerhostage swap the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and the transfer of governance in the enclave among other core issuesQatars Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Turkish National Intelligence Organization Director Ibrahim Kalin are set to join the talks on WednesdayTuesday also marked the second anniversary of the Israeli war on Gaza which began on October 7 2023 The conflict has claimed the lives of more than 67000 Palestinians caused massive destruction to Gazas infrastructure and created a catastrophic humanitarian crisis and famine in the besieged enclave IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/hamas-links-hostage-release-to-full-israeli-withdrawal-from-gaza-in-ceasefire-talks-641889.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trumps-aide-sergio-gor-confirmed-as-ambassador-to-india-641890.html Washington Oct 8 Sergio Gor President Donald Trumps nominee for US Ambassador to India was confirmed by a Senate vote on Tuesday US time Gor was part of the 107 nominees confirmed via a vote that passed along party lines The 38yearold Gor will be the youngest US ambassador to India He is one of the closest aides of Trump and was the Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office entrusted with vetting more than 4000 posts in the new Trump administrationIn August Trump announced his nomination on Truth Social For the most populous Region in the World it is important that I have someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda and help us MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador Trump posted on August 22Trump had also announced that Gor would also serve as a special envoy for South and Central Asian affairsIn September Gor during his Senate confirmation hearing had called India a strategic partner whose trajectory will shape the region and beyondIndias geographic position economic growth and military capabilities make it a cornerstone of regional stability and a critical part of promoting prosperity and advancing the security interests that our nations share India is one of the most important relationships our nation has in the world I will work to deliver on a presidential agenda and advance US interests by increasing our defence cooperation ensuring fair and beneficial trade deepening energy security and furthering technology he addedHe also spoke about strengthening defence ties with IndiaI will prioritise deepening defence and security cooperation with India This includes expanding joint military exercises advancing codevelopment and coproduction of defence systems and concluding critical defence sales he notedGor also highlighted Indias demographic dividend terming Indias population of 14 billion people and its rapidly growing middle class offer immense opportunities for America from artificial intelligence to pharmaceuticals to critical minerals the potential for collaboration is vastHe had also recently met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New York on the sidelines of the UN General AssemblyAfter the meeting the US State Department Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs said that both leaders look forward to further promoting the success of the USIndia relationshipGor is also a close aide of Trumps son Donald Trump Jr and accompanied him to Greenland in January in the administrations bid to drum up support for the US acquisition of Danish territory IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trumps-aide-sergio-gor-confirmed-as-ambassador-to-india-641890.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-says-some-furloughed-workers-might-not-get-back-pay-641891.html Washington Oct 8 US President Donald Trump said that some furloughed federal employees may not receive back pay once the government reopens following earlier threats to lay off federal workers during shutdown I would say it depends on who were talking about I can tell you this the Democrats have put a lot of people in great risk and jeopardy but it really depends on who youre talking about Trump said at the White House Oval OfficeBut for the most part were going to take care of our people There are some people that really dont deserve to be taken care of and we will take care of them in a different way he saidThe US president did not provide further details on which furloughed federal employees might not receive back pay Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier in the day Axios reported that furloughed federal workers are not guaranteed compensation for their forced time off during the government shutdown citing a draft White House memoAs Trump continued to blame Democrats for the shutdown stalemate Democratic leaders blamed RepublicansThe Republicans shut down the government instead of fixing health care for Americans across this country Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on XAfter the previous government shutdown which lasted 35 days and ended in January 2019 Trump signed a law guaranteeing back pay for federal employees affected by future shutdownsBefore the law was passed the US Congress routinely approved back pay for federal workers once a funding bill was approved to reopen the governmentRoughly 750000 federal workers are expected to be furloughed during this shutdown according to an analysis by the Congressional Budget Office last weekFederal workers deemed essential such as air traffic controllers and law enforcement officers will continue working without pay until the government reopensUS Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Monday that the government shutdown is adding pressure on already overworked air traffic controllers IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-says-some-furloughed-workers-might-not-get-back-pay-641891.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/senior-qatari-turkish-officials-to-join-ongoing-gaza-ceasefire-talks-in-egypt-641892.html Cairo Oct 8 Top diplomatic and intelligence officials from Qatar and Turkey are set to join the Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Egypt on Wednesday as mediators push to end the devastating conflict Qatars Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani will travel to the Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh to join the talks the Foreign Ministry announced on TuesdayMinistry spokesperson Majed alAnsari stated on social media that the prime ministers participation comes at a critical stage of the talks reaffirming the mediators determination to reach an agreement Xinhua news agency reportedSimultaneously Turkish National Intelligence Organization Director Ibrahim Kalin is also scheduled to take part in the negotiations Turkeys semiofficial Anadolu Agency reported citing security sourcesKalins involvement will focus on achieving a ceasefire facilitating a prisoner exchange and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to the enclaveThe current round of indirect ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel mediated by Egypt and Qatar began on Monday in Sharm El SheikhThe negotiations focus on a 20point proposal unveiled by US President Donald Trump after he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in September at the White HouseThe plan outlines a phased ceasefireforhostages deal an Israeli withdrawal a demilitarized Gaza and international oversight for the territorys postconflict reconstruction and governance which explicitly excludes HamasMeanwhile Egyptian President AbdelFattah alSisi and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron discussed recent developments on the Gaza situation on Tuesday emphasizing the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities unhindered humanitarian aid and an exchange of hostages and captives according to a statement from the Egyptian Presidency IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/senior-qatari-turkish-officials-to-join-ongoing-gaza-ceasefire-talks-in-egypt-641892.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/singaporean-pm-wong-australias-albanese-launch-comprehensive-strategic-partnership-20-641895.html Canberra Oct 8 Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held the 10th SingaporeAustralia Annual Leaders Meeting in Canberra on Wednesday reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral ties Wong is on a fourday official visit to Australia having arrived on October 6 The meeting commemorated two key milestones in 2025 60 years of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the SingaporeAustralia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership CSPAccording to Singapores Ministry of Foreign Affairs the leaders celebrated the achievements of the CSP since its launch in 2015 which spans six pillars economics and trade defence and foreign affairs science and innovation peopletopeople ties digital economy and green economy Over 110 initiatives have been delivered under this frameworkRecognising the success of the CSP Wong and Albanese announced the launch of CSP 20 a more ambitious phase aimed at enhancing resilience seizing new opportunities and contributing to regional and global stability CSP 20 includes 80 initiatives featuring 20 new MOUs and agreements and 11 new dialogues across five cooperation pillars Contributing to Peace and Stability Connecting Our Economies Transitioning to NetZero Forging New Frontiers Deepening Friendships and CapabilitiesThe leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments emphasising the importance of economic integration multilateralism ASEANAustralia relations and upholding the rulesbased international orderWong welcomed Australias commitment to Southeast Asia including the Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 and an 175 million Australian dollars contribution to Singapores Financing Asias Transition PartnershipLater in the day Wong is scheduled to call on GovernorGeneral Sam Mostyn meet Opposition Leader Sussan Ley participate in a wreathlaying ceremony at the Australian War Memorial and attend a reception for Overseas Singaporeans hosted by the Singapore High Commission in Canberra He will depart for Auckland New Zealand on Thursday IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/singaporean-pm-wong-australias-albanese-launch-comprehensive-strategic-partnership-20-641895.html Wed, 08 Oct 2025 09:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-open-to-talks-with-democrats-as-government-shutdown-drags-on-641803.html Washington Oct 7 The US government shutdown entered its sixth day with President Donald Trump indicating hes ready to negotiate with Democrats In a Truth Social Post Trump said I am happy to work with the Democrats on their Failed Healthcare Policies or anything else but first they must allow our Government to reopenEarlier in the day while speaking to the media Trump asserted that said negotiations on health care are underway with DemocratsWe are speaking with the Democrats and some very good things could happen with respect to healthcare he addedThe Republicans have accused Democrats of demanding healthcare subsidies for illegal immigrants which the Democrats reject as a lie peddled by the Trump administrationDemocrats say they are asking to reverse the healthcare cuts for American citizens in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this yearMeanwhile a vote in the Senate was defeated again on Monday as both sides continued to blame each other for the prolonged crisisWhile the Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives they are eight votes short in the Senate as the funding bill requires 60 votes to passThe White House continued to threaten the firing of federal workers while walking back on US President Donald Trumps statement on Sunday that the administration had already started removing federal employeesKaroline Leavitt the White House Press Secretary said on Monday that the Office of Management and Budget is continuing to work with agencies on who unfortunately is going to have to be laid off if this shutdown continuesIn a post on Truth Social last week Trump called the shutdown an unprecedented opportunityAbout 750000 federal workers have been furloughed while many others have been forced to work without paySince the beginning of the shutdown the administration has frozen 26 billion for 16 Democraticleaning states including 18 billion for transit projects in New YorkAbout 750000 federal workers have been furloughed while many others have been forced to work without payEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control continue to function for now while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affected soonMilitary and civilian staff are not being paid during the shutdown as around 13000 air traffic controllers are working without pay The DoT has halted additional activities like hiring and training of air traffic controllersTransportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced on Monday that a federal program to subsidise air travel to rural areas would run out of funds by the end of the week if the shutdown persistsThere are many small communities across the country that will now no longer have the resources to make sure they have air service in their communities Duffy saidIf the shutdown is extended over a long period air travel could face challenges as many of those workers would be forced to work without pay and may not report for dutyAround twothirds of the employees of the National Park Service the federal agency that manages national parks have been furloughed during the shutdown affecting tourist sites such as caves in Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona and White Sands National Park in New MexicoIn Washington DC the Library of Congress the National Archives Museum the Washington Monument and the National Arboretum have been shut and tours of the Capitol Building and the Pentagon have been suspendedThe Smithsonian Institutions museums and National Zoo in Washington announced last week that they would remain open to the public until October 11This is the first US government shutdown in seven years as the last one happened under Trump 10 and lasted for 35 days the longest in history IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-open-to-talks-with-democrats-as-government-shutdown-drags-on-641803.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/chicago-braces-for-troop-deployment-as-trump-threatens-to-invoke-insurrection-act-641806.html Washington Oct 7 US President Donald Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act an 1807 law that allows a US president to deploy military troops inside the country While speaking to reporters on Monday Trump said hell use the powers if necessaryI do it if it was necessary So far it hasnt been necessary but we have an Insurrection Act for a reason If I had to enact it I do that If people were being killed and courts were holding us up or governors or mayors were holding us up sure I do that I mean I want to make sure that people arent killed We have to make sure that our cities are safe he addedTrump has attempted to deploy National Guards along with other federal officers to Chicago in Illinois and Portland in Oregon arguing that they are necessary to control crime and protect US Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE officersProtesters have clashed with ICE officers in both Chicago and Portland as the immigration crackdown has intensified in recent daysA federal judge on Sunday temporarily blocked the administration from deploying the National Guard in Portland While Chicago also demanded a similar stay from the court the federal judge refused to agreeTrump has authorised the deployment of 300 National Guard troops in Chicago and around 200 troops from Texas are expected to arrive in the city and are likely to be deployed on WednesdayIllinois Governor JB Pritzker a Democrat on Monday vowed to use every lever and vowed that the state will not let the Trump administration continue their authoritarian march without resistingChicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also signed an executive order aiming to create ICEfree zones and prohibiting federal agents from using a few cityowned areas for immigration enforcementWe have a rogue reckless group of heavily armed masked individuals roaming throughout our city that are not accountable to the people of Chicago he saidIn June Trump deployed the National Guard troops to Los Angeles in California and to Washington DC in August IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/chicago-braces-for-troop-deployment-as-trump-threatens-to-invoke-insurrection-act-641806.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-regrets-lack-of-progress-in-women-peace-and-security-agenda-641807.html United Nations Oct 7 UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres regretted the lack of progress in the women peace and security agenda Too often we gather in rooms like this one full of conviction and commitment only to fall short when it comes to real change in the lives of women and girls caught in conflict he told an annual open debate of the Security Council on women peace and security Xinhua news agency reportedWe speak of inclusion yet far too frequently women remain absent from negotiating tables We speak of protection yet sexual violence persists with impunity We speak of leadership yet women peacebuilders are underfunded under threat and underrecognized he said And we all lose women and men girls and boysTwentyfive years since Security Council Resolution 1325 on the women peace and security agenda was adopted gains are fragile and very worryingly going in reverse he warnedAround the globe there are troubling trends in military spending more armed conflicts and more shocking brutality against women and girls he notedLast year 676 million women lived within 50 km of deadly conflict events the highest number in decades Sexual violence surged with documented incidents against girls rising by 35 percent In some places alarmingly girls accounted for nearly half of all victims Maternal mortality is rising in crisis zones Girls are being pulled from school Women in public life politicians journalists human rights defenders are targeted with violence and harassment he saidWhile womens organizations remain lifelines for millions in crisis they are being starved of resources In a survey conducted by UN Women just a few months ago 90 percent of local womenled groups in conflict settings reported financial distress Nearly half expected to shut down within six months said GuterresThe women peace and security agenda must deliver measurable change more women shaping peace agreements security reforms and recovery plans more survivors accessing services and justice more communities drawing from the vitality and strength of all their people he saidResolution 1325 is clear women are leaders of peace for all The world does not need more reminders of that truth it needs more results that reflect it said Guterres IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-regrets-lack-of-progress-in-women-peace-and-security-agenda-641807.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/israel-marks-two-years-since-brutal-october-7-attack-641819.html Jerusalem Oct 7 Two years ago on October 7 during the closing of the Jewish festival of Sukkot Hamas militants launched a surprise and deadly assault on Israel marking the bloodiest day in the nations history The attack began when armed militants from Palestine breached the GazaIsrael border storming southern Israeli communities and a desert music festival with gunfire rockets and grenadesOver a thousand people were killed and 251 hostages were abducted into Gaza of whom 48 remain in captivity including 25 that the Israeli military has declared deadThe October 7 massacre coincided with Simchat Torah a festive day immediately following Sukkot on the Hebrew calendar and caught the Israel Defense Forces IDF completely off guardIsraels political and military leadership had reportedly dismissed intelligence warnings that Hamas was preparing for a major incursion believing instead that the group ruling Gaza sought to maintain calm Compounding the vulnerability troop deployments were at their lowest due to the coincidence of the Sabbath and the festival on that dayAcross Israel memorial events are being held to honour the victims killed in the attack which reshaped the nations sense of security and triggered a prolonged war with HamasAs the country observes the second anniversary IDF Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir has ordered the military to heighten its alert status to the highest level throughout the ongoing Sukkot holiday the army announcedThe weeklong festival began on Monday evening with its first full day coinciding with the grim anniversary of the October 7 2023 massacreOver the course of the war Israel has significantly expanded its military operations carrying out strikes across five regional capitals including Tehran and killing several senior Hamas figures along with Hezbollah chief Hassan NasrallahBoth Israel and Hamas are now facing intensifying global calls to end the war Amid these pressures diplomatic efforts have regained momentum Recently US President Donald Trump unveiled a 20point peace plan that calls for an immediate ceasefire once Hamas releases all hostages followed by the groups disarmament and a phased Israeli withdrawal from GazaIndirect negotiations began on Monday in Egypts resort town of Sharm ElSheikh where mediators are shuttling between delegations under heavy securityWhile both Israel and Hamas have publicly welcomed Trumps proposal reaching a consensus on its intricate details is expected to be a monumental challengeThe conflict has previously seen two ceasefires each facilitating the release of several hostages IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/israel-marks-two-years-since-brutal-october-7-attack-641819.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/climate-change-linked-to-nearly-100-000-deaths-from-2023-heatwaves-global-study-finds-641826.html Melbourne Oct 7 Nearly 100000 deaths from 2023s unprecedented heatwaves were linked to humaninduced climate change according to an Australianled global study The study released Tuesday found that unprecedented heatwaves in 2023 caused an estimated 178486 excess deaths worldwide equivalent to 23 deaths per million with more than half attributable to manmade climate changeThe international team of researchers analysed climate and mortality data from 2013 locations in 67 countries and regions showing that about 54 per cent of the heatwaverelated deaths nearly 97000 fatalities were attributable to humaninduced climate changeThe researchers found the 2023 heatwaves occurred during the hottest year on record 145 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levelsSouthern Europe recorded the highest 2023 heatwave death rate at 120 per million followed by Eastern and Western Europe according to researchers from Australias Monash University and global partners Xinhua news agency reportedHeatwaverelated deaths were concentrated in subtropical and temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere where prolonged extreme temperatures exacerbated cardiovascular respiratory and other chronic health conditions the study saidThe findings highlight the urgent need for adaptive public health interventions and climate mitigation strategies to reduce future mortality burdens in the context of increasing global warming it saidAccording to government report released on September 15 millions of Australian homes will be at risk from rising sea levels and heatrelated deaths will more than double if global warming exceeds 3 degrees CelsiusAustralias first National Climate Risk Assessment NCRA which was released by the Australian Climate Service ACS found that 15 million coastal homes would be at risk from rising sea levels by 2050 if warming exceeds 3 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levelsBy 2090 the report said more than 3 million homes will be at risk from rising sea levels if warming exceeds 3 degrees CelsiusClimate change refers to longterm shifts in temperatures and weather patterns Such shifts can be natural due to changes in the suns activity or large volcanic eruptions But since the 1800s human activities have been the main driver of climate change primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal oil and gasBurning fossil fuels generates greenhouse gas emissions that act like a blanket wrapped around the Earth trapping the suns heat and raising temperaturesThe main greenhouse gases that are causing climate change include carbon dioxide and methane These come from using gasoline for driving a car or coal for heating a building for example Clearing land and cutting down forests can also release carbon dioxide Agriculture oil and gas operations are major sources of methane emissions Energy industry transport buildings agriculture and land use are among the main sectors causing greenhouse gases IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/climate-change-linked-to-nearly-100-000-deaths-from-2023-heatwaves-global-study-finds-641826.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/philippine-inflation-quickens-to-17-pc-in-september-641827.html Manila Oct 7 The Philippines yearonyear headline inflation quickened to 17 per cent in September from 15 per cent in August due to higher transport and food costs the Philippine Statistics Authority PSA said on Tuesday In a news conference PSA Chief Dennis Mapa said that the uptrend in overall inflation in September was primarily driven by the annual increase in the transport index which rose to 1 per cent from a yearly decline of 03 per cent in AugustAlso contributing to the uptrend in overall inflation was the higher annual increment in the food and nonalcoholic beverages index at 1 per cent in September compared to 09 per cent in the previous monthMapa said that the September inflation rate brings the national average inflation from January to September 2025 to 17 per cent In September 2024 the inflation rate was higher at 19 per centCore inflation which excludes selected food and energy items slowed down to 26 per cent in September 2025In September 2024 the core inflation rate was noted at 24 per cent Xinhua news agency reportedIn a separate statement the Philippines Department of Economy Planning and Development said the September figures point to manageable price movements despite recent supplyside pressuresThe slight uptick in inflation underscores the sensitivity of domestic food prices to supply disruptions We are working closely with various agencies to stabilize supply keep essential goods affordable and safeguard household welfare Secretary Arsenio Balisacan saidThe Department of Agriculture will also establish food corridors to minimize supply disruptions These will feature greenhouses storage and postharvest facilities that can strengthen the resilience of our food systems said BalisacanAccording to a report released by the Asian Development Bank on September 30 Robust domestic demand coupled with subdued inflation is expected to support Philippine economic growth this year and nextIn its Asian Development Outlook ADO September 2025 report the ADB forecasts the countrys gross domestic product GDP to expand by 56 per cent this year and 57 per cent in 2026 steady from last years 57 per cent growthThe 2025 GDP projection was maintained from the July ADO forecast while the 2026 growth estimate was slightly lower than 58 per cent in July Still the Philippines is forecast to remain a bright spot in Southeast Asia with the secondhighest GDP expansion in the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/philippine-inflation-quickens-to-17-pc-in-september-641827.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-corner-inaugurated-at-utadeo-university-library-in-colombia-641848.html Bogota Oct 7 An India Corner was inaugurated by Ambassador of India to Colombia Vanlalhuma at Utadeo University in Bogota showcasing Indian works on history literature philosophy diplomacy culture and economy The Indian Embassy in Bogota donated books to the universitys library offering students and faculty greater access to Indias literature history and culture The initiative aims to enhance IndiaColombia educational and cultural tiesEmbassy of India in Bogota donated books to the Library of Utadeo University where Ambassador Vanlalhuma inaugurated the India Corner displaying Indian works on history literature philosophy diplomacy culture amp economy the Indian Embassy in Bogota posted on X on TuesdayEarlier on Monday the Indian Embassy participated in the International Week at El Bosque University in Bogota where India was the guest countryAmbassador Vanlalhuma inaugurated photo exhibitions on Mahatma Gandhi and sacred IndiaThe week featured an Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation ITEC presentation yoga session screening of the Hindi film Mountain Man promotion of Indian tourism academic discussions on development IndiaColombia cooperation Indian languages and other themesStudents also took part in a painting competition inspired by Indian artOn October 4 Ambassador Vanlalhuma also inaugurated the India Corner in the library of El Bosque University aimed at further strengthening educational and cultural ties between India and Colombia Several books were also donated to the libraryColombia and India established diplomatic relations in January 1959 and celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2019Over the years several MoUs and agreements have been concluded between the countries in diverse areas including trade promotion cooperation in science and technology defence IT tourism space health traditional systems of medicine culture etcThere is growing interest among Colombians in Indias culture and heritage Indian festivals dances music gastronomy and spirituality are of increasing interest to Colombians Some Colombians who earlier learnt Indian classical and folk dances in India are now professional performers IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-corner-inaugurated-at-utadeo-university-library-in-colombia-641848.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-jaffar-express-attacked-again-seven-injured-641875.html Quetta Oct 7 At least seven people were injured after a blast targeted the Quettabound Jaffar Express in the Shikarpur district of Pakistans Sindh on Tuesday local media reported citing officials Shikarpur Deputy Commissioner Shakeel Abro said that a blast took place on the train tracks at 815 am local time Pakistans leading daily Dawn reported According to him the blast happened at a distance of one kilometre from the Sultan Kot railway stationAbro said that seven people were injured in the incident He said that among those four persons were taken to the Combined Military Hospital while the other three had been taken to the Civil Hospital in ShikarpurHe further said that the Jaffar Express train was heading to Quetta through JacobabadSukkur Divisional Transport Officer DTO Mohsin Ali Sial said that passengers were being taken to nearby stations so that the repair work of the train could beginEarlier on September 24 12 people including women and children were injured after the Jaffar Express passenger train heading to Quetta was targeted in a bomb blast in the Spizend area of Mastung in Pakistans BalochistanSix bogies of the train on its way from Peshawar to Quetta derailed after the blast and one overturned causing injuries to the passengers according to railway officials Dawn reportedIt was the second blast that took place in the same area within 10 hours An explosion took place on September 23 near the main track connecting Balochistan to other parts of Pakistan just like the Peshawarbound Jaffar Express was preparing to leave Quetta Railway StationThe train was stopped for some time However it was allowed to operate after security clearance as the track was not damagedAccording to police officials an explosive device planted on the track was detonated when the train heading to Quetta was passing through the Spizend area The railway officials stated the train was carrying 270 passengers at the time of the blastEarlier this year the Jaffar Express passenger train on its way from Quetta to Peshawar was hijacked by the Baloch Liberation Armys BLA Majeed Brigade and over 400 people were taken as hostagesThe train was forced to come to a halt on March 11 after blowing off the track in the Dhabar area of Bolan Pass in BalochistanSecurity forces and the railway authorities had confirmed that the train had come under attack near Tunnel No 8 of the Bolan PassThe standoff ended after more than 24 hours The BLA claimed to have killed at least 20 of the abducted security personnel after checking their IDs IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-jaffar-express-attacked-again-seven-injured-641875.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/haryana-cm-holds-meetings-with-top-japanese-investors-in-tokyo-641881.html Tokyo Oct 7 IANS The delegation led by Haryana Chief Minister of Nayab Singh Saini held a series of meetings with senior representatives of leading Japanese investors including Aisin Air Water TASI Nambu Denso Sojitz Nissin Foods Kawakin Holdings Toppan TDK Corporation and Seiren Corporation in Tokyo on TuesdaynbspThese projects are expected to provide a further boost to the manufacturing ecosystem in Haryana and generate significant employmentChief Minister of Haryana Nayab Singh Saini held oneonone meetings with leading Japanese corporations including Ms Aisin Air Water TASI Nambu Denso Sojitz Nissin Foods Kawakin Holdings Toppan TDK Corporation and Seiren Corporation Discussions were held on green field investments in the field of automotive electronics and precision components industrial parts metalworking industries and processed foods among others the Indian Embassy in Tokyo posted on X on TuesdayMeaningful discussions were held on enhancement of Small and Medium Enterprise SME engagement and technological collaboration Haryana Government showcased their policy on Model Industrial Townships and encouraged Japanese companies to come and invest in Haryana the post addednbspOn Monday Saini along with Tatsuya Maruyama Governor of Shimane Prefecture Hajime Ikeda Speaker Shimane Prefecture Assembly and R Madhu Sudan Charge dAffaires at the Embassy of India in Tokyo addressed the celebration of IndiaJapan Partnership Shimane Haryana at the Indian Embassy to enhance the collaboration between the two countries particularly Shimane and India especially HaryanaThe delegation led by CM Saini also travelled from Tokyo to Osaka via the Shinkansen Osaka Bullet Train which is renowned for its infrastructure and operational excellence As part of the Viksit Bharat initiative of the Government of India a similar highspeed train corridor is being developed between Mumbai to Ahmedabad under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra ModiAdditionally the Chief Minister along with the Charge dAffaires interacted with the Indian community and celebrated the International Geeta Mahotsav organised by the Embassy of India in JapannbspParticipated in the Gita Mahotsav celebrations a grand event that showcased the rich tapestry of religion culture art and heritage The celebrations witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora and international devotees reflecting the timeless relevance of the Bhagavad Gita and reaffirming Haryanas position as a beacon of spiritual and cultural heritage on the global stage Saini posted on X https://dailyworld.in/international/haryana-cm-holds-meetings-with-top-japanese-investors-in-tokyo-641881.html Tue, 07 Oct 2025 17:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/haryana-cm-meets-japanese-investors-in-tokyo-seeks-investments--641800.html Chandigarh Oct 6 IANS Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini during his ongoing visit to Japan on Monday met Shimane Prefecture Governor Tatsuya Maruyama and held discussions to explore opportunities for technology exchange innovation and joint ventures between enterprises from both regionsnbspAfter the meeting the Chief Minister participated in the HaryanaShimane Prefecture Roadshow held in TokyonbspAddressing a gathering of industrialists and investors he highlighted the longstanding cultural and historical ties between India and JapanHe said that our relationship with Japan dates back thousands of years and is deeply rooted in history and shared values Just as Shimane Prefecture upholds its enduring traditions Haryana is one of the most ancient and revered regions of Indian civilisation It is home to the sacred land of Dharmakshetra Kurukshetra where Lord Krishna delivered the divine message of the Bhagavad Gita Haryana represents the essence of duty righteousness and wisdomThe Chief Minister said that the relationship between India and Japan is a special strategic and global partnership underpinned by deep mutual trust shared democratic values and commitment to cooperationnbspReferring to the recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Japan he said that it has further strengthened bilateral ties with Japanese industrialists and investors pledging to invest 10 trillion yen in India over the next decadeChief Minister Saini urged Japanese businesses to channel a greater share of this investment into Haryana highlighting the states strong industrial ecosystem investorfriendly environment and strategic advantagesnbspHe said that Shimane and Haryana complement each other in multiple ways with both regions sharing a proud legacy rooted in quality precision and innovationnbspEach boasts robust industrial infrastructure including stateoftheart industrial parks smart logistics facilities and a growing focus on green energynbspHighlighting the longstanding ties between the two regions the Chief Minister said that Haryana has been Japans most trusted industrial partner in India for decades beginning with the establishment of Maruti Suzukis first manufacturing plant in the state in 1980sThis landmark investment transformed Indias mobility sector and laid the foundation for a worldclass industrial ecosystem in HaryananbspHe said that today Haryana is home to the highest number of Japanese companies in India underscoring its reputation as a hub of culture enterprise and innovation a home away from home for Japanese businessesnbspStrategically located Haryana borders the national capital Delhi on three sides and offers worldclass infrastructure including the KundliManesarPalwal Expressway and an integrated multimodal logistics hubnbspThe Chief Minister extended a warm invitation to investors industrialists and innovators to explore opportunities in Haryana https://dailyworld.in/international/haryana-cm-meets-japanese-investors-in-tokyo-seeks-investments--641800.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 18:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/2-dead-12-injured-in-us-alabama-shooting-641694.html New York Oct 6 Two people were killed and 12 others injured as rival gunmen shot at each other in a crowded downtown district in Montgomery the capital city of the US southeastern state of Alabama local media reported Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys said three of the injured had lifethreatening injuries Police were called around 1130 pm local time to what Graboys described as a mass shooting according to CBS NewsThis was two parties involved that were basically shooting at each other in the middle of a crowd Graboys told reporters adding that the shooters did not care about the people around Xinhua news agency reportedGraboys said investigators were combing through evidence and interviewing potential suspects adding that we will do whatever we need to do to charge and hold the people responsible who were involved in this No one has been charged as of early SundayHe said seven of the gunshot victims are under the age of 17 and that the youngest is 16The deadly shooting happened on a busy night in the citys tourist district shortly after a football game between Tuskegee University and Morehouse College CBS News saidA group of people was gathered at the intersection when gunfire erupted according to policeWSFA 12 News cited the Montgomery Police Department MPD as saying that two juveniles were among those injured including one in a lifethreatening condition Authorities did not identify the deceased victims but at least one is a woman MPD said No details have been released on the second deathWere going to use every resource we have to bring all those involved in this injustice Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/2-dead-12-injured-in-us-alabama-shooting-641694.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/yemens-houthis-launch-drone-attack-on-israels-resort-city-eilat-israeli-army-641695.html Jerusalem Oct 6 Houthi forces launched a drone at Israels Red Sea resort city of Eilat late on Sunday the second attack in a day the Israeli military said adding that the unmanned aircraft was likely intercepted Following the sirens that sounded regarding a hostile aircraft infiltration in the area of Eilat a UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle that was launched from Yemen was likely intercepted by the IAF Israel Air Force the military said in a statementIt added that the sirens were triggered due to the risk of falling shrapnel from the interception Police said in a statement that officers were searching the area but no casualties were reportedThere was no immediate comment from the Houthis Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier in the day Houthi forces fired a missile toward central Israel before dawn claiming it targeted sensitive sites The Israeli military said the missile was intercepted by its air defensesEarlier on September 26 2025 Yemens Houthi group said that it had launched a missile at IsraelIn a televised statement aired by Houthirun alMasirah TV Yahya Sarea the Houthi military spokesman said that the group launched a hypersonic ballistic missile toward a sensitive target in the Jaffa area in southern Tel Aviv on Thursday nightHe said the missile forced a temporary halt of air traffic in the Ben Gurion Airport and caused thousands of Israeli residents to flee to sheltersSarea said the missile attack was in response to what he called Israeli aggression on the Palestinian territory of the Gaza Strip as well as to the Israeli airstrikes that occurred hours earlier on Yemens capital Sanaa IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/yemens-houthis-launch-drone-attack-on-israels-resort-city-eilat-israeli-army-641695.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/over-40-pc-of-australian-victims-fall-prey-to-multiple-cybercrimes-641734.html Canberra Oct 6 Over 40 per cent of Australian cybercrime victims in 2024 were the victims of multiple forms of cybercrime according to a new government report The Cybercrime in Australia 2024 report which was published on Monday by the Australian Institute of Criminology AIC found that 421 per cent of all cybercrime victims fell victim to multiple cybercrime types in a single yearThe report looked at four key types of cybercrime online abuse and harassment malware identity crime and misuse and fraud and scams It found that 474 per cent of Australians reported falling victim to any cybercrime in 2024Online abuse and harassment were the most common types of cybercrime affecting 268 per cent of the 10335 Australians who participated in the AIC survey followed by identity crime and misuseAmong all victims 66 per cent were victimised across all four cybercrime typesAustralian Federal Police AFP Cyber Commander Graeme Marshall said the report shows that cybercrime prevention needs to be an everyday habit for Australians rather than a oneoff effortCybercriminals dont just move on after one attack If they find a vulnerability whether thats a weak password outdated software or a compromised email theyll come back again and again often in different ways he said in a statementFraud and scams were the least common type of cybercrime affecting 95 per cent of survey participants in 2024 but the victims were the most vulnerable to other types of cybercrime Xinhua news agency reportedVictims of three or more types of cybercrime were at least three times more likely to experience health financial and legal impacts than victims of one type the report saidCybercrime is a criminal activity that uses computers computer networks or networked devices to commit offences like fraud data theft harassment or to damage systems for profit or other motivesThese acts exploit digital vulnerabilities to steal information disrupt services or cause financial and reputational damage to individuals businesses and governments worldwide Common examples include hacking phishing identity theft ransomware and malware attacks IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/over-40-pc-of-australian-victims-fall-prey-to-multiple-cybercrimes-641734.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-eu-kick-off-fresh-round-of-fta-talks-in-brussels-today-641735.html New Delhi Oct 6 India and the European Union will begin the 14th round of negotiations for the proposed Free Trade Agreement FTA in Brussels on Monday senior officials said The fresh round of talks between senior officials will extend over a period of five days This will be followed up by another meeting between Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and his EU counterpart Maros Sefcovic in South Africa on the sidelines of the G20 trade commissioners summitThe proposed IndiaEU FTA covers 23 policy areas or chapters of which at least two market access and rules of origin have yet to be resolvedEU Ambassador Hervé Delphin said on Saturday that India and the EU should use the FTA to increase bilateral trade and investment at a time when some countries are raising tariffs or otherwise closing their markets in an oblique reference to the USThe FTA can open new opportunities for EU and Indian businesses and create conditions to significantly increase our bilateral trade and investment While some countries are raising tariffs or otherwise closing their markets we should use the FTA to diversify trade hedge against uncertainties and strengthen our supply chains he addedHe highlighted that EU President Ursula von der Leyen and PM Modi set the objective to conclude the FTA by the end of this year The negotiating teams are working hard to deliver it but its fair to say the negotiations are challenging and important issues remain to be resolved he addedThe EU is ready to conclude a meaningful package We look forward to the next round and further negotiations towards a mutually beneficial deal Delphin saidDelphin further highlighted that the EU is Indias top trading partner with bilateral trade in goods of EUR 120 billion ahead of the US and ChinaAdding services our bilateral trade has reached EUR 180 billion This is an impressive figure but there is a huge potential for growth considering that the EU and India are the second and the fourthlargest economies in the world To unlock this untapped potential EU and India are negotiating the FTA he addedCommerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently said We remain committed to achieving a balanced and mutuallybeneficial FTA opening new avenues for businesses and maximising opportunities for the shared growth of India and the EU IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-eu-kick-off-fresh-round-of-fta-talks-in-brussels-today-641735.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-agencies-track-bangladesh-armys-increasing-alignment-with-isi-backed-elements-641737.html New Delhi Oct 6 The Bangladesh Army was the last ray of hope for the people of the country but today that institution has come completely under the grip of the JamaateIslami Just two months back the army had appealed for peace and even foiled an attempt by Muhammad Yunus to trigger skirmishes with India The Bangladesh Army which appeared to be mature in such a tense situation has today become a replica of its counterparts in Pakistan Officials say that the Indian armed forces are preparing for a completely changed scenario along the IndoBangladesh borderThe Bangladesh Army which had kept Pakistan at arms length when Sheikh Hasina was in power is today cozying up to Islamabad Since the fall of the Hasina government the ISI and Pakistan Army have been all over Bangladesh ISI officials in particular have made multiple trips during which they have advised terror groups to increase the number of modulesThe ISI has also offered tactical support to many terror groups to act against India Further terrorists from Pakistan have been sent to Bangladesh to train terrorists who would be used to carry out attacks against IndiaIt is well known that instability in Bangladesh would have a direct impact on India In the Bangladesh Army India had seen a ray of hope When the madness set in following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina the army in Bangladesh appeared to be mature and sought immediate restoration of peaceBangladesh Army Chief General WakerUzZaman had made it clear to both the people and the interim government that he would not tolerate violence against the minorities He had also not backed the government on several decisions that included the interference by PakistanHowever today the army appears to have towed the path of the Jamaatbacked Yunus government The same army which spoke out against the violence against the minorities had on September 29 opened fire on Hindus and Buddhists who were protesting against rape and temple attacks The incident occurred at Khagra Chhari where the Hindus and Buddhists were protesting against the rape of a nonMuslim tribal girlIntelligence officials say that the change in stance by the Bangladesh Army was on expected lines While the chief and other higherranking officials were initially opposed to the policies of the Yunus government many within their ranks had turned against themAn official added that the chief and officers close to him had no option but to change their stand since a large majority within the army followed the diktat of the Jamaat which is backed by the ISI It is more or less a case of survival for the top officials who initially made sense when they spoke about the current situation in their countryNow a fourmember delegation of the Pakistan Army led by Director General of Joint Staff DG JS Lieutenant General Tabassum Habib will be visiting Bangladesh on Monday During his visit he would meet with top officials of the Bangladesh Army This only signals the growing military ties between the two countriesFurther Turkey has also made a major push to ensure that ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan remain solid The strengthening of military ties between the two countries is a matter of concern for IndiaAlthough both the Bangladesh and Pakistan armies are no match for India there is a security concern as such ties are irritants The Indian security forces are geared up for any eventualityHowever officials say that the newfound friendship between the two armies remains an irritant but Bangladesh would think many times before indulging in any sort of misadventure against IndiaAmidst these new developments there are also reports that the Bangladesh army chief General Zaman may not visit India for the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries UNTCC Chiefs Conclave to be held at New Delhi from October 14 to 16 Instead he is likely to send a junior colleague for the conclave This signals a major shift by the Bangladesh army which once shared close ties with India IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-agencies-track-bangladesh-armys-increasing-alignment-with-isi-backed-elements-641737.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/china-activates-emergency-response-for-flood-control-in-yunnan-641745.html Beijing Oct 6 Chinas State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters activated a LevelIV emergency response for flood control in its southwestern Yunnan Province on Monday It has also dispatched a work team to assist and guide flood prevention effortsAccording to meteorological forecasts parts of Yunnan are expected to experience heavy rainfall in the coming days under the influence of Typhoon Matmo the 21st named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season with some areas likely to see torrential downpours of up to 190 mmChinas emergency response system has four tiers with Level I being the most severe Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier on October 5 Typhoon Matmo made landfall along the eastern coast of Xuwen County Zhanjiang City in south Chinas Guangdong Province according to Guangdongs meteorological serviceThe typhoon had made landfall with maximum wind force near its centre reaching 42 metres per second and a central minimum pressure of 965 hectopascalsThe typhoon had caused severe damage to the power grids of Suixi County in Zhanjiang leading to power outages in parts of the county Emergency response teams were promptly deployed to assess the damage and initiate repairsAs of 7 pm on Sunday the Guangdong branch of China Southern Power Grid had mobilised nearly 40000 emergency personnel about 170 emergency power vehicles and 550 emergency generators to the affected areasMeteorological authorities say the typhoon continues to move northwest The authorities forecast that Zhanjiang and the nearby Maoming City will experience moderate rain turning to showers on MondayHundreds of thousands of people were also evacuated from their homes as Typhoon Matmo lashed Chinas southern coast on Sunday state media reportedChina is the worlds largest emitter of greenhouse gases which scientists say are accelerating climate change and making extreme weather events more frequent and intense IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/china-activates-emergency-response-for-flood-control-in-yunnan-641745.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/french-pm-sebastien-lecornu-resigns-after-few-weeks-in-office--641752.html Paris Oct 6 IANS French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu resigned on Monday indicating a renewed crisis in the countrys politics His resignation comes just weeks after his appointmentnbspFrench President Emmanuel Macron accepted his resignation on Monday morning hours after Lecornu revealed first names of his government Euro News reportednbspAfter unveiling his cabinet Lecornu has faced criticism from his own camp and the opposition The conservative Republicans party has expressed outrage over the return of Frances former Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire as Defence Minister reports citedOn Sunday Lecornu announced the cabinet lineup which included Bruno Le Maire who served as French Economy Minister from 2017 to 2024 being named as Defence Minister while Roland Lescure was appointed as Frances Economy Minister French Foreign Minister JeanNoel Barrot continued to keep his portfolio Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau and Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin also kept their posts Xinhua News Agency reported Culture Minister Rachida Dati continued to retain his post The French presidency revealed 18 names which included 16 ministers and two ministers delegateAfter the unveiling of the cabinet lineup National Rally RN leader Jordan Bardella criticised the appointment In a social media post he said that new cabinet just represents continuity of the old governmentnbspOn September 9 French President Emmanuel Macron named thenDefence Minister Sebastien Lecornu as the countrys PM Lecornu 39 served as French Defence Minister for over three years and is considered close ally of MacronUnlike previous delays in naming a new Prime Minister Macron had last month quickly appointed Lecornu signaling urgency in stabilising the political and economic situationnbspMathilde Panot president of the La France Insoumise parliamentary group had condemned Lecornus nomination as a provocation amid the rising protests She had accused Macron of pursuing the same policy for the rich who are in the minority in the Assembly and the countryFollowing his appointment Lecornu in his message shared on his social media account thanked Macron for his trust and praised outgoing PM Francois Bayrou for his courage in defending his convictionsnbspMacron made the appointment a day after Bayrou and his cabinet were ousted in a parliamentary confidence vote over his proposal to reduce public spending Later Bayrou tendered his resignation https://dailyworld.in/international/french-pm-sebastien-lecornu-resigns-after-few-weeks-in-office--641752.html Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/former-czech-pm-babis-ano-party-leads-election-early-results-641589.html Prague Oct 4 The Czech Republics opposition ANO party led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis held a lead in the countrys parliamentary election which ended on Saturday as official results continued to be tallied Official results showed that with over half of the voting districts counted ANO had garnered 3792 per cent of the voteThe ruling centerright SPOLU coalition was in second place with 2065 per centSeveral other parties including STAN the Motorists for Themselves Party the Pirates and Freedom and Direct Democracy were also poised to surpass the five per cent threshold needed to enter the 200seat lower house of parliamentThe new Stacilo movement led by the Communist Party was hovering near the threshold at 463 per cent Xinhua news agency reportedThe twoday nationwide election which will determine the 200 seats in the lower house of parliament began with polling stations opening at 2 pm local time on FridayIt will determine the 200 seats in the Chamber of Deputies the lower house of parliamentPreliminary forecasts suggested that six to seven parties may win representation with frontrunners including the ANO movement and the Spolu coalition Other parties in contention are STAN the Pirates SPD Stacilo and the Motorists for Themselves PartyIn all 26 political parties and movements are competing fielding more than 4400 candidates nationwide About eight million citizens were eligible to voteA notable change this year is the introduction of postal voting for Czechs living abroad By the end of August around 24000 citizens had registered to cast their ballots by mailBabis has led ANO since 2012 for which he was elected to the Parliament of the Czech Republic in the national elections in 2013 As a member of the governing coalition in 20132017 he served as the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceHe was appointed Prime Minister of the Czech Republic in December 2017 after the electoral successes of his movement ANO in the 2017 Parliamentary elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/former-czech-pm-babis-ano-party-leads-election-early-results-641589.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/one-dead-in-russian-volcano-accident-641590.html Moscow Oct 4 One of three volcano climbers falling off the slope in Russias Kamchatka Krai has died according to authorities on Saturday Earlier on Saturday reports said that a group of three mountaineers fell while ascending the Vilyuchinsky Volcano At 1822 local time 0522 GMT a helicopter carrying rescuers and medical personnel was dispatched to the sceneAccording to the Emergency Situations Ministry for the Kamchatka Krai the woman who fell alongside the deceased remains in critical condition Xinhua news agency reportedRescuers have reached the third person who was located on a high slope and unharmed said the ministry adding Evacuation efforts have begun to lower her to an altitude of 1500 metres where medical staff from the Disaster Medicine Center are waitingExtra searchandrescue teams and volunteers from PetropavlovskKamchatsky have also joined rescue efforts at the site In total more than 40 people are involved in the rescue operation the ministry saidMeanwhile the Kronotsky volcano on Russias Kamchatka Peninsula spewed ash to a height of 92 kilometres above sea level on Saturday local authorities saidThe ash ejection occurred at 1150 am local time 2350 GMT Friday sending an ash plume stretching about 85 kilometres to the south and southeast of the volcano the Kamchatka Volcanic Eruption Response Team said on its Telegram channelA red aviation color code was issued indicating a high hazard for both the local and international air trafficThe Kronotsky volcano is located about 225 kilometres from the regional capital of PetropavlovskKamchatsky and 10 kilometres east of Lake KronotskoyeOn Friday an earthquake with a magnitude of 60 jolted off the east coast of Kamchatka at 1607 GMT the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences saidThe epicentre with a depth of 100 km was initially determined to be at 5171 degrees north latitude and 15979 degrees east longitude IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/one-dead-in-russian-volcano-accident-641590.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/israeli-pm-hopes-to-bring-all-hostages-home-within-days-as-egypt-to-host-talks-over-us-ceasefire-proposal-641603.html Cairo Oct 5 Egypt will host Israeli and Hamas delegations on Monday to discuss field conditions and details for the exchange of all Israeli detainees and Palestinian prisoners under the recent US proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said Egypt hopes the discussions will help end the war and the suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people which has continued for two consecutive years the ministry said in a statementThe anticipated meetings are part of Egypts ongoing efforts in coordination with other mediators aimed at ending the Israeli war in the Gaza Strip it saidMeanwhile Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday voiced hope that all Israeli hostages held in Gaza could be released within days Xinhua news agency reportedWe are on the verge of a significant achievement Netanyahu said in a live video statement Its not final yet but I hope that during the upcoming Sukkot holiday we will be able to secure the release of all the hostages both living and deceased while maintaining our military presence deep inside the Gaza Strip Sukkot a weeklong Jewish holiday begins on Monday eveningHowever Netanyahu said Israel intends to keep negotiations limited to just a few days adding that in the US proposals second phase Hamas will be disarmed and the Gaza Strip will be demilitarised whether through military action or diplomatic meansFarright ministers in Netanyahus politicalsecurity cabinet and coalition have harshly criticised Netanyahu and the emerging agreement Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called Netanyahus decision a serious mistake and a sure recipe for Hamas stalling for time and the growing erosion of the Israeli positionNational Security Minister Itamar BenGvir said if Hamas continues to exist after all the hostages are released his faction will not be part of the governmentAccording to Israeli media Netanyahu summoned the two ministers for an urgent meeting to convince them to support the agreementThe US proposal which Washington said on Monday that Israel had agreed to combines a ceasefireforhostages deal phased Israeli withdrawal and international oversight on Gazas reconstruction and governance after the end of the conflictHamas announced Friday that it had accepted the proposal in principle and was ready to open mediated talks a response broadly welcomed by the international community which urged both sides to seize the chance to end the war and ease civilian sufferingOn Saturday two US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff headed to Egypt to discuss details of the proposal the White House saidMeanwhile Israeli forces scaled back the offensive in Gaza on Saturday after the US asked Israel to halt attacks in response to Hamass announcement that it was ready to free hostagesAccording to Palestinian medical sources the Israeli Air Force launched a series of airstrikes Saturday morning targeting various areas of Gaza City resulting in deaths and injuries The health authorities said in a press statement that 66 were dead and 265 wounded at Gaza hospitals over the past 24 hoursIsraels military campaign in Gaza has killed 67074 Palestinians and injured 169430 others since October 7 2023 while famine and malnutrition have claimed 459 lives in the enclave including 154 children according to an update by Gazabased health authorities on Saturday IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/israeli-pm-hopes-to-bring-all-hostages-home-within-days-as-egypt-to-host-talks-over-us-ceasefire-proposal-641603.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/former-pm-babis-ano-party-wins-czech-election-641604.html Prague Oct 5 The Czech Republics opposition ANO party led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis has won the countrys parliamentary election according to official results from a nearcomplete vote count With over 99 per cent of the voting districts counted in the election ANO had garnered nearly 346 per cent of the vote while the ruling centerright SPOLU coalition came in second place with 233 per cent Xinhua news agency reportedOther parties clearing the 5 per cent threshold included the Mayors and Independents STAN with 112 per cent the Pirate Party with 89 per cent the farright Freedom and Direct Democracy SPD with about 78 per cent and the populist Motorists for Themselves with nearly 68 per centBabis called the election result the absolute highlight of his political careerWe are extremely happy and we thank everyone who came to the polls he said claiming that ANO achieved a historic resultBabis added that his party has a clear program and will change the country for the betterA government will be formed that will really work hard that someone will manage and that will fulfill the program from the first moment he saidThe countrys current Prime Minister Petr Fiala also chairman of the Civic Democratic Party in the Spolu alliance acknowledged the victory of ANO I congratulate the winner of the elections which is Andrej BabisThe Pirate partys leader Zdenek Hrib declared that he would under no circumstances enter into a ruling coalition with ANO and certainly not with the SPDInstead he indicated that his party could be a strong and vocal oppositionThe young Motorists for Themselves Party entered the Czech parliament ranking the sixth The strong result positions the party as a potential junior partner in the upcoming government formation talks The partys chairman Petr Macinka declared that we are the only truly rightwing party and we want to keep an eye on BabisKaterina Konecna the Stacilo Movements electoral leader said it is clear that the leftwing party will not be represented in the new parliamentShe expressed her doubts whether a rightwing government will be able to solve the problems that bother the citizens of the Czech Republic We are not stopping We are moving forwardAccording to official data the voter turnout was around 6892 per centThe Czech Statistical Office said in a statement that this years voter turnout surpassed that from 2021 making it the highest since the parliamentary elections in 1998 when 74 per cent of voters came to the polls IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/former-pm-babis-ano-party-wins-czech-election-641604.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-court-orders-release-of-ex-kcc-chief-following-legality-review-641605.html Seoul Oct 5 A court accepted a request from Lee Jinsook former head of the nowdefunct Korea Communications Commission KCC to be released from detention A judge at the Seoul Southern District Court granted Lees request for release saying her arrest is not justified at this stageThe judge also cited the advanced stage of the investigation the undisputed facts of the case and Lees promise to faithfully attend future proceedings as reasons for granting her release Yonhap news agency reportedLee filed for a court review of her detention the previous dayLee was taken into custody earlier in the week on suspicion of violating the election law and breaching political neutrality The former KCC chief is accused of breaching political neutrality by making partisan remarks on conservative YouTube channels in September last yearThe remarks were also deemed to violate the election law as they were allegedly aimed at obstructing the election of President Lee Jae Myung who was a presidential candidate at that timeShe was accused of breaching political neutrality by making partisan remarks while appearing on conservative YouTube channels in September last yearIn July the Board of Audit and Inspection had warned her over the comments she made at that time Multiple complaints had also been filed against her IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-court-orders-release-of-ex-kcc-chief-following-legality-review-641605.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/new-korean-envoy-to-us-pledges-best-efforts-to-address-trade-other-bilateral-issues-641606.html Washington Oct 5 South Koreas new top envoy to the United States vowed to mobilize all embassy capacities to help address trade and other bilateral issues with the US as she arrived in Washington to begin her ambassadorship Ambassador Kang Kyungwha who served as Seouls foreign minister from 20172021 made the remarks as Seoul and Washington face a series of challenging tasks including finalizing a trade deal resuming diplomacy with North Korea and addressing visa issues for Korean workersAs tough issues between Korea and the US have been tangled up I will make best efforts to disentangle those issues well by mustering up not just my efforts but all embassy capacities she told reporters upon arrival at Dulles International Airport near WashingtonThe nations first female ambassador to the US added that she will capitalize on her experience as a former foreign minister and former head of the nongovernmental Asia Society among others to successfully conduct her duties in the USAs a key pending issue facing the bilateral relationship Kang pointed to ongoing talks to hash out details of the US350 billion investment fund that Seoul has committed to as part of a framework trade deal with US President Donald Trumps administration Yonhap news agency reportedWe will respond thoroughly on the ground to ensure that the two sides can find a point of agreement in a mutually good result she saidOf course the industry minister and trade minister are directly involved in the efforts to reach a deal but as the embassy chief on the ground I think I should make efforts to provide maximum support to themShe also touched on workinggroup efforts between Seoul and Washington to address visa issues for Korean workers amid lingering questions over the US credibility as a reliable investment partner following last months immigration crackdown that led to the detention of more than 310 Korean workers in GeorgiaI understand that the first meeting of the working group concluded well to help ensure there will be no issue for Korean businesspeoples entry she saidI will make efforts to ensure the operation of a sustainable trustworthy visa program can be entrenched as we will engage in the second workinggroup meeting and additional negotiations on the matterBefore departing for the US Kang met Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung as Koreas automotive industry is grappling with a 25 per cent auto tariff with a bilateral agreement to lower it to 15 per cent yet to go into force pending negotiations to finalize the trade deal struck in JulyI think that Hyundais voice is very important given that the enterprises and the government have to work as a team to produce a good result she saidAsked to comment on a recent White House statement that Trump remains open to talks with North Korean leader Kim Jongun without any preconditions Kang reiterated South Korean President Lee Jae Myungs support for Trumps pursuit of dialogue with PyongyangOn the ground I believe we should send that message by upholding President Lees will and should ensure that dialogue can materialize between the US and the North she saidAfter all North Korea should come out for dialogue That said we will engage in close consultations with US officials in that regardTouching on a news report that Trump is expected to visit South Korea for just one day ahead of the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation summit set to begin late this month the envoy said that talks between Seoul and Washington still continue on that matterWe are making efforts to work out a schedule for Trumps visit to Korea which is mutually satisfactory to both sides and we will actively support that effort here in the US she said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/new-korean-envoy-to-us-pledges-best-efforts-to-address-trade-other-bilateral-issues-641606.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-to-send-300-national-guardsmen-to-chicago-despite-objection-641610.html New York Oct 5 US Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has said that despite his repeated rejections of federal mobilisation to Chicago President Donald Trump will send in 300 National Guardsmen Pritzker said on social media on Saturday local time that the Trump administration gave him an ultimatum call up your troops or we willIn the coming hours the Trump Administration intends to federalise 300 members of the Illinois National Guard the governor saidAmidst ongoing violent riots and lawlessness local leaders like Pritzker have refused to step in to quell President Trump has authorised 300 National Guardsmen to protect federal officers and assets White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said in a statement issued on SaturdayPritzkers comments about the National Guard being federalised came amid continued clashes between immigration authorities and protesters in the Chicago areaOn Saturday morning law enforcement patrolling in Chicago shot an unidentified armed US citizen who was allegedly on Homeland Securitys radar according to NoemProtests broke out in the city on Saturday and armed border patrol agents deployed what appeared to be chemical irritants toward protesters reports Xinhua news agencyOver the last month Trump has threatened to send the National Guard into several cities particularly Democraticrun ones to curb crime and bolster immigration enforcement agentsHe already deployed the National Guard to Washington DC in AugustLast week the Trump administration also put on hold 21 billion US dollars in Chicago infrastructure projects against the backdrop of the federal government shutdownThe assets were put on hold to ensure funding is not flowing via racebased contracting Russell Vought the White House budget director said on XThe Department of Transportation DOT replied to Voughts post on X saying that the Chicago Transit Authority CTA Red Line Extension and the CTA Red and Purple Modernisation Program are under administrative review to determine whether any unconstitutional practices are occurringThe move followed other Trump administration efforts to withhold funds from Democratled states and citiesOn Wednesday Vought announced that the DOT was freezing 18 billion in federal funding for two major infrastructure projects in New York CityOn Thursday the Department of Energy cancelled nearly 8 billion in funding for climaterelated projects and other initiatives largely in Democraticled states IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-to-send-300-national-guardsmen-to-chicago-despite-objection-641610.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 09:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/14-killed-in-landslides-triggered-by-incessant-rain-in-nepal-641637.html Kathmandu Oct 5 At least 14 people were killed in landslides triggered by incessant rainfall in Nepals Ilam district local authorities said The country has been witnessing heavy rainfall since Friday causing landslides floods and inundation in several areasHowever Ilam which borders Darjeeling in India has reported the largest number of casualtiesChief District Officer of Ilam Sunita Nepal told IANS that at least 14 people have been confirmed dead in landslides that buried three houses on Saturday nightAs more houses have been damaged in the district the death toll might rise she saidShe added that the District Administration Office DAO Ilam has sought detailed reports on losses caused by landslides and flooding from local governments within the districtAccording to the DAO continuous rainfall over the past three days has caused both human casualties and significant damage to public infrastructure including roadsNepal said that the Mechi Highway which connects Ilam with the southern Jhapa district has been blocked at several locations due to landslidesAlthough the country experienced heavy downpours since Friday the situation improved slightly by Sunday morning according to the Department of Hydrology and MeteorologyIn a notice issued on Sunday the department said rainfall had decreased in most districts with the highest amount recorded in parts of Lalitpur district in the Kathmandu ValleyLight rain is occurring in some areas of Kathmandu Morang Sunsari Udayapur Saptari Siraha Dhanusha Sarlahi Sindhuli and Ramechhap districts the department statedHowever the department warned of the possibility of heavy rainfall in the hilly districts of eastern Koshi Province on Sunday afternoon and nightEven though rainfall subsided in several districts by Sunday morning landslides have damaged multiple highways obstructing transportation servicesThe Nepalese government has continued its ban on the entry and exit of vehicles to and from Kathmandu ValleyAccording to the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division major highways connecting the Valley such as the Prithvi Highway linking Kathmandu with western Nepal the BP Highway connecting the capital with southeastern Nepal and the Araniko Highway linking Kathmandu with the Chinese border have been completely obstructedLikewise the Pasang Lhamu Koshi and Siddhicharan highways have also been fully blockedConsidering the risks posed by landslides and flooding longdistance transportation services from five of the seven provinces Koshi Madhesh Bagmati Gandaki and Lumbini have been suspended the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division said in a social media post on SundayMeanwhile Nepals interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki in a video address to the nation on Saturday evening urged citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as heavy rainfall continues to affect various parts of the countryShe said the government would mobilise all available resources to ensure the safety of citizens during the ongoing natural disaster IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/14-killed-in-landslides-triggered-by-incessant-rain-in-nepal-641637.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 13:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/teachers-catalysts-of-cambodias-ai-transformation-pm-hun-manet-641651.html Phnom Penh Oct 5 Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Sunday that teachers are the catalysts of Artificial Intelligence AI transformation in the Southeast Asian country In a text posted on his official social media platforms to mark World Teachers Day Hun Manet said Cambodia observed the event under the national theme of Teacher is the catalyst of AI transformationThis theme underscores the central role of educators in preparing students to navigate and benefit from a future shaped by AI he saidIt resonates with Cambodias national vision articulated in its Pentagonal Strategy Phase I where human development and digital transformation are identified as two of the core pillars to sustainable growth of the country he addedMinister of Education Youth and Sport Hang Chuon Naron said the integration of AI in education will augment teachers capability to transform education Xinhua news agency reportedBy equipping them with the skills to harness digital technology and AI responsibly they are empowered to unlock new learning opportunities and nurture the next generation of innovators and leaders in a rapidly evolving world he said in a press release on World Teachers DayTeachers can use AI to prepare lesson plans and provide personalised learning to students Naron addedEsther McFarlane chief of education at UNESCO to Phnom Penh said teachers are not only adapting to new technologies but also shaping how these tools are applied to inspire and empower learners to think independently and creatively about the questions challenges and opportunities they will face in societyWith AI reshaping education we must ensure new technologies support and empower teachers not replace them she saidBy investing in mentoring research and professional development for teachers we ensure teachers are at the centre of this evolving landscape she addedIn the celebration of the event a twoday exhibition on Utilising AI Technology in Education was held at the National Institute of Education in Phnom Penh showcasing about 50 works related to AI which had been innovated by 14 institutions according to the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/teachers-catalysts-of-cambodias-ai-transformation-pm-hun-manet-641651.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 14:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/islamabad-hiding-absolute-dominance-with-a-free-tag-641658.html New Delhi Oct 5 The recent unrest in PakistanOccupied Jammu and Kashmir POJK and Islamabads role in quelling it has once again laid bare its pretense of labelling a region free when actually under occupation Security deployments communication blackouts emissaries dispatched for negotiations on ground all reflect Islamabads absolute control over the regionIt is barely a selfgoverning territory claimed to be following its own Constitution with a Legislature President Prime Minister courts and Ministries but major sovereign and practical powers remain with Pakistans federal government and its security establishmentSuch and more realties are confirmed from information available on open sourcesThe POJK Legislative Assembly for example comprises 53 members where 45 are directly elected general seats with another eight reserved seats where five are for women and one each for a technocrat an ulema and another for nationals residing abroadHowever among the 45 general seats 12 are exclusively for refugees from Jammu amp KashmirMassive protests erupted last week across POJK led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee JAAC who demanded in a 38point charter that these seats which are in reality Islamabads nominees be abolishedOther demands included subsidies to help common people access basic requirements like power and flour whose costs have been escalatingThey also sought an end to elite perks and greater local control over their own resourcesIncidentally Islamabad while allocating funds and subsidies retains its control over disbursementAlso major schemes in POJK including hydropower projects like the Mangla Dam are controlled by Pakistan offering very limited benefit to localsMangla Dam on the Jhelum river is one of the largest of its kind in Pakistan playing a significant role in irrigation and hydroelectric power generationIn addition protesters reiterate the fact that voters for 12 of the 45 constituencies are Kashmiri refugees registered in various districts outside the POJKThey are from Pakistan spread across Punjab Sindh Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Balochistan etc but are not recognised as part of POJK residentsThus such elected socalled refugeeseat members in the POJK Legislative Assembly in Muzaffarabad in reality represent people based in Pakistan rather than constituencies located inside its territoryThe political parties in the region too are mostly extensions of Pakistans national parties like the Pakistan TehreekeInsaaf PTI Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz PMLN and Pakistan Peoples Party PPP among othersEven in administrative appointments and the bureaucracy senior civil service posts like the chief secretary and other senior officials are filled from Pakistans federal and provincial cadres or with Islamabads approval linking administration to federal controlMeanwhile the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and GilgitBaltistan acts as a formal link between Islamabad and the POJK and can intervene in policy and negotiationsIslamabad has exhibited the power it wields in earlier instances having intervened in leadership changes including dismissals of POJK Prime MinistersThus it was no surprise that negotiations were carried out by a delegation dispatched by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif rather than one by a locally elected governmentEven the reported agreement between the team from Islamabad and protesters was officially announced by Pakistans Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal ChaudhryA word added to the original name of an illegally occupied region does not render it freePakistan retains decisive authority over almost all aspects in the region leaving its inhabitants at the mercy of Islamabad while maintaining a sham facade IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/islamabad-hiding-absolute-dominance-with-a-free-tag-641658.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 15:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/iskcon-temple-in-us-state-maryland-celebrates-dussehra-with-great-pomp-641667.html Washington Oct 5 Dussehra was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the ISKCON Temple in Maryland USA where officials from the Indian Embassy also participated in the festivities Indias Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Namya C Khampa extended greetings to the people on the festival and praised ISKCON for its efforts in promoting spirituality and interfaith harmonyWhile sharing the pictures from the celebration on the social media platform X on Sunday Indian time the Embassy wrote The Embassy joined the vibrant Dussehra celebrations at the ISKCON Temple MD Deputy Chief of Mission Amb Namya C Khampa conveyed greetings on the festival and lauded ISKCONs role in promoting spirituality and interfaith harmony The event saw participation from Lt Gov Aruna Miller and many other Maryland State Government dignitaries and Minister of Economic and Minister CAandP EoIDussehra also known as Vijayadashami is observed annually at the culmination of Shardiya Navaratri Falling on the tenth day of the month of Ashvin in the Hindu lunisolar calendar it symbolises the triumph of good over evilEarlier on October 2 the Indian Embassy in the US organised an event to celebrate Mahatma Gandhis legacy on his 156th birth anniversary Indian diaspora students professionals and friends of India attended the eventAt the event Srimati Karuna Director of the Gandhi Memorial Centre Bethesda Maryland delivered a talk on Gandhis life and MessageShe shared anecdotes from Mahatma Gandhis life his inspirations and his vision for the world the Embassy posted on XThe talk was followed by a rendition of beautiful bhajan and songs that Bapu was fond of by differently abled young Indian artists Ms Anusha Manjunath and Ms Vasundhara Raturi it addedGandhi Jayanti commemorates Mahatma Gandhis lifelong commitment to truth nonviolence and social justice It not only honours his philosophy of peace and ethical living but also serves as the International Day of NonViolence which is observed worldwide to spread the message IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/iskcon-temple-in-us-state-maryland-celebrates-dussehra-with-great-pomp-641667.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 16:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/sri-lanka-tourism-to-hold-roadshows-in-india-to-boost-visitor-arrivals-641668.html New Delhi Oct 5 Sri Lankas Tourism Ministry is ramping up promotions for Indian travellers through roadshows and networking events in southern India next week with the goal of increasing arrivals and strengthening tourism relations between the two countries a report has said A series of roadshows B2B and networking evenings are scheduled to take place in Madurai on October 6 Coimbatore on October 8 and Chennai on October 10 a report from Mawrata News saidThe Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau SLTPB and the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau SLCB are jointly organising these events to promote Sri Lanka as a yearround destination for all segments of travellers the report addedAimed at attracting more visitors from southern India and strengthening the bilateral ties the roadshows will highlight the islands thriving tourism industry rich attractions resilience and steady growthThe delegation led by Vijitha Herath Minister for Foreign Affairs Foreign Employment and Tourism and Ruwan Ranasinghe Deputy Minister of Tourism includes officials from the SLTPB and SLCB accompanied by over 40 stakeholders from the Sri Lankan tourism sector and will attend the event in Tamil NaduThe group represents Destination Management Companies leisure and MICE leading hotels and resorts tour operators and other tourismrelated service providers from Sri LankaDuring the roadshows industry stakeholders will participate in B2B interactions with their Indian counterparts in each city Each event is expected to draw over 200 participants including Indian travel agents prominent industry figures and members of the media the report notedSri Lanka is at a critical juncture with its prospects for 2026 clouded by external shocks Economic growth is forecast to slow to 33 per cent as the United States imposes a 20 per cent tariff on key Sri Lankan exports according to a report IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/sri-lanka-tourism-to-hold-roadshows-in-india-to-boost-visitor-arrivals-641668.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 16:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/typhoon-matmo-makes-landfall-in-chinas-guangdong-thousands-evacuated-641674.html Beijing Oct 5 Typhoon Matmo the 21st named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season made landfall along the eastern coast of Xuwen County Zhanjiang City in south Chinas Guangdong Province around 250 pm local time on Sunday according to Guangdongs meteorological service The typhoon made landfall with maximum wind force near its centre reaching 42 metres per second and a central minimum pressure of 965 hectopascals All coastal passenger ferry routes have been suspended in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Approximately 26000 tourists on Weizhou Island were evacuated with no one stranded Coastal projects and ports have halted operations and 4024 personnel from ships and oil platforms have been relocatedThe Guangxi maritime authority activated the toplevel emergency response on Sunday morning guiding 168 vessels to safe waters and securing 889 ships in port reports Xinhua news agencyThe island province of Hainan has relocated over 197000 people from highrisk areas as of Sunday noon with a typhoon red alert remaining in effectGuangdong Province has raised its typhoon emergency response to the highest level as Typhoon Matmo intensified with cumulative evacuations exceeding 150000 people to ensure safetyThe provincial flood control headquarters upgraded the response to Level I on Sunday morning By Saturday evening a total of 151352 residents had been relocated including 9916 from maritime areasThe typhoon has strengthened to severe with winds up to 45 metres per second Emergency teams have been deployed to restore power and communication in those areasAccording to meteorological authorities Matmo is moving westnorthwest and is expected to make landfall in Guangdong before weakening and entering the Beibu Gulf by evening Storms and heavy rainfall are forecast The city of Zhanjiang has implemented a fullscale shutdown of classes work production transport and businesses since Saturday evening and closed all highways from Sunday morning IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/typhoon-matmo-makes-landfall-in-chinas-guangdong-thousands-evacuated-641674.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 16:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/chinas-distant-water-fishing-fleet-is-engine-of-environmental-destruction-labour-exploitation-report-641676.html Colombo Oct 5 Chinas distantwater fishing fleet is an engine of environmental destruction and labour exploitation which if continued will keep on destroying ecosystems undermining food security and violating human rights a report has said A report in Sri Lankabased Daily Mirror has stated that the dominance of China which operates the worlds largest distantwater fishing DWF fleet in global fisheries has come at an increasingly unsustainable costWith more than 16000 active vessels far exceeding the governments official cap of 3000 Chinas DWF footprint is massive spanning virtually every oceanic region Overseas Development Institute 2020 These fleets are not merely fishing further afield they are operating with poor transparency inadequate oversight and growing evidence of systemic labour and environmental abuses the report readsDaily Mirror also cited a 2025 report by Oceana which revealed that Chineseflagged vessels carried out 44 per cent of all visible global industrial fishing activity between 2022 and 2024 with over 110 million hours at seaThe effort of this majorly focuses on resourcerich but ecologically sensitive areas in the Pacific Islands West Africa and Latin America regions already facing pressure due to climate change and local overfishingChinas extensive use of bottom trawlers which rake the ocean floor and destroy entire ecosystems has drawn international condemnation These trawlers many of which operate under foreign flags to evade regulation are responsible for longterm habitat destruction coral reef collapse and unsustainable bycatch rates the report saidIn addition to human rights issues and biodiversity decline the report said Chinas DWF model threatens global food securityChinese vessels in many coastal African and Pacific nations extract fish which would have otherwise fed local residents Local artisanal fishers have seen a reduction in catch and income as overfishing by foreign fleets especially Chinese reduces coastal stocks the report said citing SciDevnotThe report in the Daily Mirror further mentioned Despite claims from Chinese authorities that their fleet operates under strict regulation the reality is a web of subsidies loopholes and weak enforcement Fuel subsidies and generous vessel financing allow Chinese operators to profit even from unviable fisheriesIt added that the regulatory bodies like the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs consistently underreport fleet size and omit human rights violations from public disclosures ODI 2020Beijing has stated it will reduce illegal unreported and unregulated IUU fishing but its words are not matched by robust domestic reforms or international cooperation the report mentionedIn order to counter this model according to the Daily Mirror report global institutions must implement stronger portstate measures demand transparency in vessel ownership and impose conditions for market access on verified labour and sustainability standardsIt added that the nations that import Chinesecaught seafood particularly the US and those in the European Union must implement diligence rules that hold importers accountable for forced labour and IUU fishingThe evidence is overwhelming Chinas distantwater fishing fleet is an engine of environmental destruction and labour exploitation It is not merely a matter of poor oversight the system is structurally flawed fuelled by subsidies and legitimised by weak governance the report saidAs long as the fleet operates under these conditions it will continue to devastate ecosystems undermine food security and trample human rights If Beijing is serious about becoming a responsible maritime power then it must radically reform its fishing policies not just on paper but in practice it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/chinas-distant-water-fishing-fleet-is-engine-of-environmental-destruction-labour-exploitation-report-641676.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 16:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-army-assists-in-swift-flood-rescue-operation-in-bhutan-641679.html New Delhi Oct 5 A sudden flood in the Amochu River area early Sunday morning left several families and workers stranded in Bhutans temporary housing and workforce camp  Despite challenging weather conditions a coordinated rescue effort between Bhutanese authorities and the Indian Army ensured all affected individuals were brought to safety When a Druk Air helicopter was unable to take off due to inclement weather Bhutan sought urgent support from IndiaResponding swiftly the Indian Army deployed two helicoptersThe teams airlifted stranded workers to safety and ensured they received immediate medical careThe Royal Government of Bhutan has expressed sincere gratitude to the Indian Army for its timely and lifesaving assistance as well as to the Royal Bhutan Army and Druk Air teams for their courageous effortsThe episode once again underscored the enduring friendship and cooperation between Bhutan and IndiaNotably according to the Bhutanese media reports the Amochu River experienced a sudden flood that affected several families residing in the temporary Quarantine Housing and Workforce Management CentreThe swift rise in water levels left many individuals stranded prompting an immediate emergency response from local authoritiesDuring the early stages of the rescue operation two individuals were reported missing one believed to have been washed away and the other unaccounted for said Bhutans Ministry of Home Affairs in a press noteLocal authorities quickly sought support from Druk Air Helicopter Services Unfortunately due to inclement weather the helicopter was unable to take off from Paro The Royal Bhutan Army RBA then coordinated with the Indian Army for urgent assistance it addedIn a prompt and commendable response two helicopters from the Indian Army were deployed and arrived at the site around 1255 pmThe helicopters successfully airlifted the three stranded individuals to the CST ground from where they were transported to the hospital for medical careIn a positive turn of events it was later confirmed that the two previously reported missing workers were also found alive and safe it saidThe Royal Government of Bhutan extends its heartfelt appreciation and deep gratitude to the Indian Army for their timely and lifesaving assistance it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-army-assists-in-swift-flood-rescue-operation-in-bhutan-641679.html Sun, 05 Oct 2025 17:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trumps-h-1b-visa-proclamation-challenged-in-us-court-641433.html Washington Oct 4 In the first major domestic legal challenge to the H1B visa crackdown a group of unions education professionals and religious bodies sued the Trump administration In a lawsuit filed in the Northern District of California the plaintiffs argued that Trumps proclamation signed on September 19 was riddled with multiple errors and ignores the benefits of the H1B visa program to the American economyThe case also highlighted that the 100000 visa application fee is unprecedented unjustified and unlawfulThe Proclamations imposition of a draconian fee is unprecedented No President has without Congressional authorization and by fiat imposed a marketwide penalty for purported misuse of a programdisregarding and overriding an existing complex statutory schemeon employers seeking to hire workers under a visa program Congress created specifically for that purpose it saidThe complaint said that the President has no authority to unilaterally alter the comprehensive statutory scheme created by Congress and that the option of exceptions opens the door to selective enforcement and corruptionThe plaintiff includes many immigration and advocacy groups including the Justice Action Center South Asian American Justice Collaborative and Democracy Forward Foundation but no leading tech companyWhile signing the proclamation Trump had said the incentive is to hire American workersWe need workers We need great workers and this pretty much ensures that Trump addedCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had also defended the move saying the policy would discourage companies from hiring foreign workersSo the whole idea is no more will these big tech companies or other big companies train foreign workers They have to pay the government 100000 then they have to pay the employee So its just not economic Youre going to train somebody Youre going to train one of the recent graduates from one of the great universities across our land train Americans Stop bringing in people to take our jobs Thats the policy here 100000 a year for H1B visas he explainedThe proclamation caused immense confusion as it seemed to suggest that it would impact the current H1B visa holders who may face hurdles in returning to the United StatesThe White House issued a clarification to IANS on September 20 saying that this is a onetime fee that applies only to new visas and not renewals or current visa holdersDays later the US Department of Homeland Security DHS also proposed to amend its regulations governing the H1B visa processThe DHS plan sought to scrap the existing lottery system and implement a weighted selection process that it says would favour the allocation of H1B visas to higherskilled workersIndiaborn workers received over 70 per cent of the total approved H1B visas in 2024 primarily due to a huge backlog in approvals and a high number of skilled immigrants from India IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trumps-h-1b-visa-proclamation-challenged-in-us-court-641433.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 06:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-hails-hamas-promise-to-release-all-gaza-hostages-641434.html Washington Oct 4 US President Donald Trump welcomed Hamas decision to release all hostages from Gaza saying its a big day and he looked forward to having the hostages come home to their parents I just want to let you know that this is a very special day In many ways it is unprecedented but thank you all and thank you all to those great countries that helped Were very close to achieving that Well see how it all turns out We have to get the final word down in concrete Trump said in a video addressIn a separate Truth Social post Trump said Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza so that we can get the Hostages out safely and quickly adding that he believed that Hamas was ready for a lasting PEACETrumps statements come after Hamas announced plans to free all Israeli hostages held in Gaza and hand over the bodies of captivesIn a statement on the social media site Telegram Hamas said the movement affirms its readiness to immediately enter into negotiations through the mediators to discuss the details of this agreementIt also agreed to hand over Gazas administration to a Palestinian body of independent technocrats based on Palestinian national consensus and Arab and Islamic supportAround 48 people are believed to remain in captivity and about 20 are thought to be aliveHamas made its decision public hours after US President Donald Trump gave an ultimatum to the group to sign his Gaza peace plan by Sunday or all hell will break outIn a post on Truth Social on Friday Trump posted An Agreement must be reached with Hamas by Sunday Evening at SIX 6 PM Washington DC time Every Country has signed on If this LAST CHANCE agreement is not reached all HELL like no one has ever seen before will break out against Hamas he saidTrumps 20point peace plan for Gaza outlines the establishment of a temporary technocratic government with Israel pledging not to annex the Strip and ensuring that no residents are forced to leave The agreement calls for an immediate end to the war if accepted with all captives both alive and deceased returned within 72 hoursThe government in Gaza will be overseen by a new international transitional body the Board of Peace which will be chaired by Trump and other members including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair This body will set the framework and handle the funding for the redevelopment of Gaza until the Palestinian Authority complete a reform program to take back controlHamas members who commit to peace would receive amnesty while others would be offered safe passage abroad Security in Gaza will be overseen by regional and international forces who would also help train Palestinian police while aid would flow in at agreed levels The US would facilitate further dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians to support longterm coexistenceThe war in Gaza began almost two years ago when Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 2023 killing 1200 people and taking 251 hostages Israel retaliated with air strikes and a ground invasion More than 66000 Palestinians have been killed and much of Gaza has been reduced to rubble IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-hails-hamas-promise-to-release-all-gaza-hostages-641434.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 06:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/amid-shutdown-trump-blocks-funding-for-democrat-run-chicago-641436.html Washington Oct 4 The US government shutdown stretched into its third day with Republicans and Democrats yet to reach a breakthrough Another round of votes by Republican and Democrat Senators was defeated by each side on Friday as Democrats continued to demand the reversal of healthcare cuts for American citizens in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this yearRepublican lawmakers and the White House allege that the Democratic Party wants healthcare subsidies for illegal immigrants which Democrats reject as a lie peddled by the Trump administrationThe Trump administration on Friday also suspended 21 billion in federal funding for a rail transit project in the Democraticrun city of ChicagoRussell Vought the Director of the Office of Management and Budget announced the cut on X saying that it has been put on hold to ensure funding is not flowing via racebased contractingOn Wednesday the administration froze 26 billion for 16 Democraticleaning states including 18 billion for transit projects in New York the home state of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck SchumerIn a press conference on Friday White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the suspension of funding for ChicagoWe paused 21 billion in Chicago Infrastructure projects specifically the red line extension in the red and purple modernization projects and its because the administration is concerned that the Biden administration was handing out taxpayer dollars to pay for this construction based on DEI Diversity Equity and Inclusion the DoT Department of Transportation is reviewing the racebased contracting on unconstitutional grounds she addedShe also reiterated the threat of firing thousands of federal employees if Democrats continued to block the Republicanled billIf this shutdown continues layoffs are an unfortunate consequence of that The Democrats have given the administration this opportunity and we dont like laying people off Nobody wants to do that But sometimes in government you have to make tough decisions she claimedIn a post on Truth Social on Thursday Trump called the shutdown an unprecedented opportunityAbout 750000 federal workers have been furloughed while many others have been forced to work without payEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control continue to function for now while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affected soonMilitary and civilian staff are not being paid during the shutdown while around 13000 air traffic controllers are working without pay The DoT has halted additional activities like hiring and training of new air traffic controllersIf the shutdown is extended over a long period air travel could face challenges as many of those workers would be forced to work without pay and may not report for dutyThe Smithsonian Institutions museums and National Zoo Washingtons major tourist attractions announced that they would remain open to the public until October 11This is the first US government shutdown in seven years as the last one happened under Trump 10 and lasted for 35 days the longest in history IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/amid-shutdown-trump-blocks-funding-for-democrat-run-chicago-641436.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 07:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-reverses-homeland-security-funding-cuts-targeting-new-york-641440.html Washington Oct 4 US President Donald Trump said Friday that he had reversed 187 million of cuts his administration attempted to make to homeland security and counterterrorism funding for New York City and the state I am pleased to advise that I reversed the cuts made to Homeland Security and Counterterrorism for New York City and State It was my Honor to do so Trump posted on Truth Social without providing more explanation on why he made the decisionNew York Governor Kathy Hochul welcomed the announcement on X From the moment US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem tried to defund our police and counterterrorism programs we stood up and fought back the governor said adding that she is glad the president heard their call to reverse these cutsThat means 187 million dollars for the NYPD New York City Police Department FDNY Fire Department City of New York amp first responders across the state that keep New Yorkers safe said the governorSenate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also weighed in saying on X that Donald Trump tried to target New York with these cuts and we fought back and wonDespite the reversal New York is seeing other cuts from the federal government as the clash between the Republicans and the Democrats escalates further Xinhua news agency reportedOn Wednesday day one of the government shutdown Russell Vought the White House budget director announced that the US Department of Transportation was freezing 18 billion dollars in federal funding for two major infrastructure projects in New York CitySchumer replied on the same day on X saying that Trump and Vought were threatening the Gateway Tunnel and Second Avenue Subway considering the move as stupid and counterproductive because they create tens of thousands of great jobs and are essential for a strong regional and national economyZohran Mamdani the Democratic frontrunner for mayor of New York on Friday accused Trump of trying to harm the citys economy noting that the consequences could be immensely seriousIt shows how little he thinks of the people from the city that he likes to remind us he is from Mamdani said at a press conference held at a construction site in Manhattan These are the actions of one who is cruel to this city IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-reverses-homeland-security-funding-cuts-targeting-new-york-641440.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 08:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/uganda-au-destroy-illicit-firearms-to-curb-proliferation-of-small-weapons-641442.html Kampala Oct 4 Uganda and the African Union AU have destroyed more than 100 illicit firearms marking the launch of joint efforts to curb the spread of small arms and light weapons across the continent Ugandan Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs Jacob Marksons Oboth presided over the symbolic burning of weapons at the Gaddafi Army Barracks in Jinja eastern Uganda on Friday local time The exercise was part of the ninth Africa Amnesty Month observed under the theme Safer Communities through Voluntary DisarmamentOboth called on individuals still in possession of illegal firearms to hand them over voluntarily in the interest of peace and securityThe 2025 Africa Amnesty Month commemoration here highlights Ugandas commitment to safer communities through disarmament We need to silence the guns through voluntary disarmament he said in a joint statement issued on FridayTebelelo Boang chairperson of the AU Peace and Security Council said firearms destroyed potential lives saved and hope renewedTogether we advance disarmament silence the guns and build peace for all by 2030 he addedThe commemoration coincided with the opening of a twoday forum in Kampala where experts and government officials discussed strategies to reduce the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across Africa reports Xinhua news agencyThe meeting organised under the AU Peace and Security Council brought together representatives from the AU the East African Community the United Nations civil society youth womens groups and other stakeholders to advance the continental agenda of ending armed violenceThe AU declared September as Africa Amnesty Month in 2017 to encourage civilians to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms without facing prosecution IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/uganda-au-destroy-illicit-firearms-to-curb-proliferation-of-small-weapons-641442.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 09:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/au-launches-10-year-initiative-to-improve-education-in-africa-641444.html Addis Ababa Oct 4 The African Union AU has launched a decadelong initiative to improve learning across Africa and elevate teachers role in the continents development This came as the threeday Pan African Conference on Teacher Education took place at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa from Wednesday to Friday under the theme Advancing Strategies for Teacher Training Recognition and Professional DevelopmentDuring the conference the AU along with African ministers of education launched the AU Decade of Accelerated Action for the Transformation of Education and Skills Development in Africa 20252034 signaling a renewed continental commitment to achieving inclusive and quality education directly aligned with the goals of Agenda 2063 and the global Sustainable Development Goals Xinhua news agency reportedThe highlevel gathering also marked the launch of six other continental strategic frameworks with an overarching goal of addressing pressing challenges within education including widespread teacher shortages issues of gender equity and the effective integration of technology into classroomsAddressing the conference Gaspard Banyankimbona AU commissioner for education science technology and innovation said despite their pivotal role teachers across Africa face shortages inadequate training low morale and insufficient recognition He underscored concerted efforts to reform education systems in Africa to address the pressing challenges concerning teacher educationEchoing this sentiment Ethiopian State Minister of Education Ayelech Eshete said the rapidly growing schoolaged population and shortage of qualified teachers across Africa demand urgent attention among policymakers as well as continental and international partners Only nine subSaharan African countries are expected to have enough primary school teachers by 2030 according to the state minister IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/au-launches-10-year-initiative-to-improve-education-in-africa-641444.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 09:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/floods-kill-19-affect-nearly-640-000-in-south-sudan-un-641445.html Juba Oct 4 Widespread flooding caused by heavy rains in South Sudan has killed 19 people and affected an estimated 639225 others across 26 counties in six states a United Nations UN humanitarian agency said The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs OCHA on Friday local time said nearly 175000 people are displaced sheltering on higher ground in 16 countiesHealth risks are rising with increasing cases of malaria respiratory infections and diarrhoea OCHA said in its latest humanitarian report released in Juba the capital of South SudanIt said at least 121 health facilities have been impacted amid reports of 144 snake bites and 3391 malnutrition cases across 11 counties reports Xinhua news agencyThe report came a day after global charity Save the Children said that an estimated 14 million people in South Sudan face the threat of flooding this year with aboveaverage rainfall forecast for October and NovemberSave the Children also reported a rise in waterborne diseases and an increase in snake bite cases which are escalating public health concernsChristopher Nyamandi country director for Save the Children in South Sudan said the hunger crisis is deteriorating and remains underreported despite ranking among the most severe globallyWhat lies ahead for children in South Sudan could be catastrophic The heavy rainfall has already submerged towns and is expected to continue for weeks Nyamandi saidHe added that aid cuts disrupted the charitys operations with its budget reduced by 31 million US dollars in the spring forcing staff cuts in nutrition and child protection programs and limiting suppliesCommunities have lost farmland livelihoods homes and access to schools and health facilities it said with 379000 children and adults displaced by rising watersThis convergence of crises has triggered food shortages nationwide 77 million people are facing acute hunger and 23 million children under five are at risk of acute malnutritionAbout 83000 people are said to be enduring faminelike food shortages especially in the Upper Nile region Save the Children added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/floods-kill-19-affect-nearly-640-000-in-south-sudan-un-641445.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 09:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/volcano-in-russias-kamchatka-ejects-ash-up-to-92-km-high-641451.html Vladivostok Oct 4 The Kronotsky volcano on Russias Kamchatka Peninsula spewed ash to a height of 92 kilometres above sea level on Saturday local authorities said The ash ejection occurred at 1150 am local time 2350 GMT Friday sending an ash plume stretching about 85 kilometres to the south and southeast of the volcano the Kamchatka Volcanic Eruption Response Team said on its Telegram channelA red aviation colour code has been issued indicating a high hazard for both the local and international air traffic reports Xinhua news agencyThe Kronotsky volcano is located about 225 kilometres from the regional capital of PetropavlovskKamchatsky and 10 kilometres east of Lake KronotskoyeThis comes just months after six volcanoes erupted in the Kamchatka Peninsula Scientists called it a highly unusual phenomenonAccording to our data the last time such widespread volcanic activity occurred in Kamchatka was in 1737 following a magnitude9 earthquake Alexey Ozerov director of the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences was quoted by TASS news agency as sayingOzerov said the powerful seismic event on July 30 may have reawakened the regions sleeping giantsYury Demyanchuk head of the volcanology station in the village of Klyuchi said he had not seen such widespread volcanic activity in his five decades of work in KamchatkaOn Krasheninnikov Volcano both summit and central eruptions have begun simultaneously which may indicate intense internal seismic processes As for Kambalny Volcano I last worked on it in 1979 While it has been quiet for decades it should not be considered extinct Demyanchuk saidHe noted that the previous eruption of Krasheninnikov likely occurred in the 15th century and is known only from layers of volcanic ashAuthorities are warning residents and visitors to stay away from the active volcanoes IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/volcano-in-russias-kamchatka-ejects-ash-up-to-92-km-high-641451.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 09:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/china-issues-orange-alert-for-typhoon-matmo-641457.html Beijing Oct 4 Chinas national observatory on Saturday issued an orange alert the secondhighest in its fourtier system for Typhoon Matmo the 21st typhoon of the year as it strengthens and heads toward the countrys southern coast The typhoon observed at 18 degrees north latitude and 1177 degrees east longitude at 5 am on Saturday is moving northwestward at a speed of 2530 km per hour according to the National Meteorological Centre NMCIt is anticipated to make landfall along coastal areas ranging from Dianbai in Guangdong Province to Wanning in Hainan Province both located in south China during the daytime on Sunday the NMC saidFrom Saturday morning to Sunday morning the typhoon is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to Chinas southern coastal regionsThe national observatory has urged local authorities to activate emergency response measures for the typhoon and stay alert for mountain torrents and geological disasters triggered by heavy rainfall Xinhua news agency reportedChina has a fourtier colourcoded weather warning system for typhoons with red representing the most severe warning followed by orange yellow and blueEarlier on October 3 China had activated a LevelIV emergency flood and typhoon response in the southern provinces of Guangdong and Hainan as Typhoon Matmo the 21st named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season approaches according to the Ministry of Emergency ManagementThe State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters had called on local authorities to initiate emergency response measures and to ensure the prevention and control of flooding and urban waterlogging as well as the safety of visitors during the ongoing national holiday the ministry saidChinas National Meteorological Centre had issued a yellow alert for Typhoon Matmo which is expected to make landfall on the coast between Wanning in Hainan and Dianbai in Guangdong on SundayMajor flight routes ferry services across the Qiongzhou Strait and highspeed rail operations are likely to be affected from Saturday night through Sunday with normal services expected to resume by Monday morning IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/china-issues-orange-alert-for-typhoon-matmo-641457.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 11:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/japans-ruling-ldp-lawmakers-start-voting-for-new-leader-641459.html Tokyo Oct 4 Lawmakers from Japans ruling Liberal Democratic Party LDP started voting for a new leader on Saturday with five candidates competing to become the new party chief and virtually the countrys next prime minister The contenders are former LDP SecretaryGeneral Toshimitsu Motegi Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and former economic security ministers Sanae Takaichi and Takayuki KobayashiAll five also ran in last years election which saw a record nine candidatesThe first round of the election triggered by LDP President Shigeru Ishibas resignation last month consisted of 590 votes 295 from LDP lawmakers and 295 allocated proportionally to rankandfile party members and registered supportersA candidate securing an outright majority in the first round will be elected otherwise the top two finishers will proceed to a runoffOnce a new LDP president is chosen the parliament will hold a prime ministerial designation voteEven though the ruling bloc has failed to secure a majority in both chambers of the parliament the new leader is almost certain to become the countrys next prime minister since the LDP remains the largest party Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier on September 23 Japans LDP had launched its leadership race with five candidates declaring their bids to succeed outgoing party chief and Prime Minister Shigeru IshibaThe contenders were former LDP SecretaryGeneral Toshimitsu Motegi Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and former economic security ministers Sanae Takaichi and Takayuki KobayashiAll five also ran in last years election which saw a record nine candidatesThe contest would focus on issues such as cooperation with opposition parties economic measures to tackle rising prices and rebuilding the party after successive election defeats and political funding scandalsA candidate securing an outright majority in the first round will be elected otherwise the top two finishers will proceed to a runoffOnce a new LDP president is chosen parliament will hold a prime ministerial designation voteEven though the ruling bloc has failed to secure a majority in both chambers of the parliament the new leader is almost certain to become the countrys next prime minister since the LDP remains the largest partyThis years election comes amid new challenges for the LDP The number of eligible voting members has dropped to about 915600 down more than 140000 from the previous contestComplicating matters further whoever becomes the new party leader must navigate the difficulties of minority governance mend factional divides and regain public trustRecent opinion polls show Shinjiro Koizumi and Sanae Takaichi leading in public popularity but insiders stress that internal party dynamics and factional support will be decisive The alignment of votes previously loyal to Ishiba may also prove critical in determining the outcomeBut whoever takes the helm challenges abound Years of sluggish growth rising prices and a sharp depreciation of the yen have weighed heavily on the public and the LDPs twin defeats have left its leadership under closer scrutinyAs the ruling bloc loses its historical dominance the task ahead is unenviable holding together a divided party managing minority rule and convincing a sceptical electorate that the LDP is still capable of providing stable government IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/japans-ruling-ldp-lawmakers-start-voting-for-new-leader-641459.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 11:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/world-leaders-welcome-hamas-decision-to-release-hostages-back-trumps-peace-plan-641463.html London Oct 4 World leaders on Saturday have welcomed Hamas readiness to release all hostages and to engage on the basis of the peace proposal by US President Donald Trump This followed major developments in the Middle East where Hamas has agreed to release all hostages currently held in GazaThe move is being widely viewed as a response to a renewed peace push spearheaded by Trump who unveiled a 20point peace plan earlier this weekCalling Hamas acceptance of the US peace plan a significant step forward UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said We strongly support President Trumps efforts which have brought us closer to peace than ever before There is now an opportunity to end the fighting for the hostages to return home and for humanitarian aid to reach those who so desperately need itWe call on all sides to implement the agreement without delay The UK alongside our partners stands ready to support further negotiations and to work towards sustainable peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike he addedFrench President Emmanuel Macron took to his social media stating that Hamas commitment must be acted upon without delayThe release of all hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza are within reach Hamas commitment must be followed up on without delay We now have the opportunity to make decisive progress towards peace France will play its full part in line with its efforts at the United Nations alongside the United States Israelis and Palestinians and all of its international partners Macron posted on XMeanwhile Australia welcomed the progress on Trumps plan to bring peace to GazaWe have consistently been part of international calls for a ceasefire the return of hostages and unimpeded humanitarian aid to reach those in need I reiterate our call on Hamas to agree to the plan lay down its arms and release all remaining hostages without delay read a statement issued by Australian Prime Minister Anthony AlbaneseHe further mentioned that Australia will continue to support efforts to end the war and work towards a just and sustainable twostate solutionFurthermore calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon took to X stating that the announcement by Hamas is a very welcome step forwardAll efforts must now be focused on realising the opportunity it presents The priority remains the return of the hostages an end to the fighting and unfettered access to Gaza for humanitarian assistance With the rest of the international community New Zealanders embrace the hope this offers for a future in which Israelis and Palestinians live sidebyside in peace and security he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/world-leaders-welcome-hamas-decision-to-release-hostages-back-trumps-peace-plan-641463.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 11:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/when-india-takes-flight-lies-crash-land-abhishek-singhvi-on-iaf-chiefs-op-sindoor-precision-remark-641471.html New Delhi Oct 4 Congress Rajya Sabha MP and senior lawyer Abhishek Singhvi on Saturday said that Indian facts speak louder than Pakistani propaganda He further added that when India takes flight lies crashland This statement follows a powerful assertion of Indias air superiority by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh who revealed that a recent Indian Air Force operation during Operation Sindoor not only penetrated deep into enemy territory but also achieved the longestrange kill to date up to 300 kms rendering Pakistan unable to operate even within its own bordersTaking to his social media platform X Singhvi said Indian facts speak louder than Pak propaganda As the IAF Chief confirms Pakistans top guns F16s and JF17s fell faster than their false narratives When India takes flight lies crashlandMeanwhile on October 3 speaking to reporters Air Chief Marshal AP Singh highlighted the strategic success of the mission stating We were able to penetrate deep into enemy territory and execute strikes with high precisionHe credited Indias robust air defence infrastructure for playing a pivotal role in the overall plan enabling seamless coordination and protection of assets during the operationWe were able to bring them to their knees within one night of intensive operations The ability of the Air Force to be able to deliver this catastrophic firepower has been shown for the first time after 1971 IAF chief Singh saidThe mission which remains classified in its finer details reportedly involved the deployment of advanced longrange weapons systems Longrange weapons were effectively deployed and satellite imagery confirmed the hits we achieved the Air Marshal said underscoring the technological edge that India leveraged during the strikeThe operations standout achievement was the longestrange kill ever recorded by the Indian Air Force a milestone that reflects the growing reach and lethality of Indias aerial capabilitiesAccording to Defence analysts such a kill likely involved precisionguided munitions launched from standoff distances minimising risk to pilots while maximising impactPerhaps most striking was Air Chief Marshal Singhs comment on Pakistans inability to respond Pakistan was unable to operate even within its own territory he said suggesting that the scale and surprise of the operation left the adversary paralysed and disorientedThe statement marks a significant moment in Indias Defence capabilities showcasing not only tactical brilliance but also strategic deterrence IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/when-india-takes-flight-lies-crash-land-abhishek-singhvi-on-iaf-chiefs-op-sindoor-precision-remark-641471.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 12:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/japan-sanae-takaichi-wins-ruling-party-leader-race-set-to-become-first-female-pm-on-oct-15-641473.html Tokyo Oct 4 Japans former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi was elected leader of Japans ruling Liberal Democratic Party LDP in a vote on Saturday She is set to become the first female Prime Minister of Japan on October 15 Takaichi received 185 votes while Koizumi garnered 156 in a runoff after none of the five candidates in the party leadership race secured a majority in the initial round of voting according to local media reportsIn the first round of the election Takaichi secured the lead with a total of 183 votes which included 64 from party lawmakers and 119 from rankandfile members Koizumi followed closely behind with 164 votes comprised of 80 from party lawmakers and 84 from rankandfile members countrys leading newspaper The Japan Times reportedLawmakers from the LDP started voting for a new leader earlier in the day with five candidates competing to become the new party chief and virtually the countrys next prime ministerAlong with Sanae Takaichi the contenders were former LDP SecretaryGeneral Toshimitsu Motegi Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Takayuki KobayashiAll five also ran in last years election which saw a record nine candidatesThe first round of the election triggered by LDP President Shigeru Ishibas resignation last month consisted of 590 votes 295 from LDP lawmakers and 295 allocated proportionally to rankandfile party members and registered supportersThe contest focused on issues such as cooperation with opposition parties economic measures to tackle rising prices and rebuilding the party after successive election defeats and political funding scandalsYears of sluggish growth rising prices and a sharp depreciation of the yen have weighed heavily on the public and the LDPs twin defeats have left its leadership under closer scrutinyAs the ruling bloc loses its historical dominance the task ahead is unenviable holding together a divided party managing minority rule and convincing a sceptical electorate that the LDP is still capable of providing stable government IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/japan-sanae-takaichi-wins-ruling-party-leader-race-set-to-become-first-female-pm-on-oct-15-641473.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 12:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/khalistanis-rattled-as-india-canada-close-ranks-officials-warn-of-desperate-attacks-641487.html New Delhi Oct 4 The noose around the Khalistanis is tightening with India and Canada strengthening security cooperation The first sign of a reset was following a meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney This meeting set off a series of meetings between officials of both countries a highlevel meeting of the National Security Advisor NSA and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin The resetting of ties resulted in Canada listing the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity While doing so Canada said that the gang created a climate of fear and intimidation For India this is a major decision since these are the gangs that are linked to the Khalistan elementsThe National Investigation Agency NIA is probing the gangsterterror nexus case During the probe the NIA found that it is these gangs that are raising funds and carrying out hits at the behest of the Khalistanis The NIA has been able to clearly establish that there is a deep nexus between the two and this is benefiting the Khalistan movementIntelligence agencies say that these developments have created panic in the minds of the Khalistanis The attempt to set on fire a cinema theatre at Ontario twice within a week is a clear sign of desperationOfficials say that these Khalistan radicals would attempt more such acts as they want to create fear in the minds of the people and law enforcement agencies The same elements attacked the Kaps Cafe in Canada recently and this was claimed by the Babbar Khalsa International BKIThese people are making every attempt to target Indians and this proves just that The attempt to set fire in Ontario led to the theatre management announcing that they were stopping the screening of Hindi movies owing to security threatsEvery screening and every product stamped Made in India carries the imprint of a violent ideology that is driving India toward a Hindutva totalitarian state the proscribed Sikhs for Justice SFJ Gurpatwant Singh Pannun said after these incidentsWhile the improvement of ties between India and Canada has clearly irritated the Khalistanis there is more frustration when it comes to their operations in Punjab The Indian agencies have ensured that these persons do not raise their ugly heads in the country This led to hampering not just their operations but their radicalisation drives and recruitments This has added to their frustration and hence the Indian agencies have alerted the police to remain on high alert since attempts are being made to carry out a terror strike in Punjab or the neighbouring statesIt is not just the government and law enforcement agencies but even the elders in Punjab who have played a vital role in ensuring that the Khalistan movement does not revive They keep telling the younger generation how worthless the entire movement was They also tell them that during the days of militancy in Punjab the people only lived in fear as the state saw violent incidentsThis has largely worked on the youths and hence the Khalistanis are finding it is next to impossible to carry out recruitment With the help of the locals such a movement cannot thriveOfficials say that to wipe out this menace India and Canada would need to work closely The NIA is investigating several cases relating to the Khalistan issue Information would be shared regularly so that there are extraditions that take place in the near futureThe Lawrence Bishnoi issue is just the start and more would follow officials point outHowever during this period the law enforcement agencies would need to be on high alert since the desperation among the ISIbacked Khalistanis has set in in a big way IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/khalistanis-rattled-as-india-canada-close-ranks-officials-warn-of-desperate-attacks-641487.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 13:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/asis-mahabodhi-phaya-exhibition-highlights-india-myanmar-spiritual-ties-641490.html Naypyidaw Oct 4 The Archaeological Survey of India ASI organised an exhibition at the Buddhist temple Mahabodhi Phaya in Myanmars Bagan city showcasing beforeandafter images of restored monuments This exhibition highlighted ASIs contribution to restoring the monuments and reaffirmed the ageold spiritual ties between India and MyanmarThe event was presided over by Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Abhay Thakur and DirectorGeneral Kyaw Oo Lwin of the Department of Archaeology and National Museum at Monument no 1670 Mahabodhi PhayaDuring this Ambassador Abhay Thakur also interacted with the ASI team and local artisans engaged in the restoration effortsAmbassador also interacted with our ASI team amp local artisans The ASI exhibition displaying pictures of monuments before and after restoration showcases their immense contribution Mahabodhi Phaya Bagan the 1215 AD replica of Bodh Gaya reminds of our ageold spiritual ties Indian Embassy in Myanmar posted on X on SaturdayThe ceremonial inauguration of Phase II of the Restoration and Conservation Works for earthquakeaffected pagodas in Bagan took place at the Mahabodhi Pagoda on Friday where this exhibition was organisedA fourmember ASI team in close coordination with the Department of Archaeology Bagan and the support of local craftsmen will undertake further works on approximately 50 monuments The chemical preservation and physical restoration experts from ASI have years of experience in the field including the spectacular restoration of the iconic Ananda Temple as well as 11 monuments under Phase I of the Bagan restoration project read a statement issued by the EmbassyIt further mentioned that 11 restored monuments 22 works under Phase I of the Bagan restoration project were handed over to Myanmar on December 13 2024A photo exhibition of Phase I was also brought out during the event Phase II of the project will consolidate and expand upon the successful work carried out thus far the Embassy addedThe project reflected the Indian governments enduring commitment to the longterm preservation of Myanmars invaluable religious heritage as well as to strengthening ageold cultural and spiritual bonds between the people of India and Myanmar IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/asis-mahabodhi-phaya-exhibition-highlights-india-myanmar-spiritual-ties-641490.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 13:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-from-indonesia-school-building-collapse-rises-to-14-641494.html Jakarta Oct 4 The death toll from the collapse of a school building in Indonesias East Java province has risen to 14 a local rescue official said on Saturday By Friday evening rescuers had recovered nine more bodies bringing the number of fatalities to 14 according to Tholeb Vatelehan a senior communication official of the East Java Search and Rescue OfficeCurrently nearly 50 people remain missing and the death toll is expected to riseRescuers deployed heavy machinery on Thursday after no further signs of life were detected Earlier they had relied mainly on manual excavation out of concern that heavy equipment could cause further collapsePart of the multistorey Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo district caved in on Monday during unauthorised renovation leaving dozens of students trapped Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier on October 2 rescuers had detected no further signs of life under the rubble of a collapsed school building in Indonesias East Java province the countrys disaster agency saidHightech equipment such as thermal drones has been used but no additional signs of life were found Suharyanto head of the National Disaster Management Agency had told a press briefing at the site of Mondays collapse in Sidoarjo districtHundreds of rescuers from various agencies have been deployed to the site The cause of the collapse is under investigationSuharyanto head of the National Disaster Management Agency had said three more bodies were retrieved by rescuers He had said heavy machinery had been deployed in the ongoing excavation with 55 people still unaccounted forA day later rescue workers had relied mainly on manual excavation out of concern that heavy equipment could trigger further collapseThe students were mostly boys in grades seven to 12 between the ages of 12 and 19 Female students were praying in another part of the building and managed to escape survivors saidAuthorities had said that the school had two storeys but more were being added without permits Police had said the old buildings foundation apparently was unable to support two floors of concrete and collapsed during the pouring process IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-from-indonesia-school-building-collapse-rises-to-14-641494.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 13:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/for-gaza-a-chance-to-return-from-destruction-to-reconstruction-641500.html New Delhi Oct 4 Hamass cautious acceptance of United States President Donald Trumps proposal for a solution may have cracked open a diplomatic door long sealed by warfare and mistrust This was perhaps the window that the countries mediating a ceasefire in Gaza were waiting for Negotiators from Egypt Qatar Turkey and the United States can now be expected to shuttle between Hamas officials mainly perhaps in Doha and Jerusalem to iron out a ceasefire implementationUnder Trumps 20point blueprint an immediate ceasefire would accompany the release of living hostages followed by the return of remains of those deceased in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians held by Israel in detention facilities outside GazaWhile Hamas has accepted elements such as the release of hostages and the handover of Gazas administration it has reportedly rejected disarmament demands and any permanent surrender of armsAccording to information available an official statement released through the groups Telegram channel has confirmed readiness to release all Israeli hostages and bodies of those deceased It has also abided by handing over the administration of the Gaza Strip to a technocratic Palestinian body supported by Arab and Islamic states However the group is said to have refused to lay down its weapons or disarm unconditionally or allow foreign forces to oversee Gaza or remove Hamas fighters from Palestinian territoryThese caveats underscore Hamass insistence on maintaining its role as a political and military actor in Gaza Thus negotiators will also need to grapple with the question of Gazas governanceTrumps plan envisages a technocratic apolitical Palestinian committee to run the Strip under an international oversight board chaired by the US Hamas say reports insists on a purely Palestinian administration endorsed by national consensus and backed by Arab and Islamic statesBut Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly and unequivocally ruled out the establishment of a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River which he reiterated in his recent address at the United Nations General Assembly UNGA in New YorkBoth he and Trump have condemned nations granting recognition to a Palestinian state saying that the recognition of Palestine as a state without going down strongly on the Hamas organisation serves as a reward for itEven as the leaders were delivering their respective statements at the UNGA 156 of the 193 UN membercountries had officially recognised the state of PalestineMeanwhile legislative elections are scheduled to be held in Israel by October 2026 where Netanyahus governing coalition includes farright parties that stand rigidly against any concessions toward a twostate solutionIn fact some of his cabinet members have demanded the full annexation of the West Bank making any move toward a sovereign Palestinian state politically untenable for Netanyahu Disagreements over such and other issues remain the primary objective in the path to a comprehensive peaceYet when the ground reality in Gaza remains grim this moment of conditional optimism offers a fleeting chance to return from destruction to reconstruction IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/for-gaza-a-chance-to-return-from-destruction-to-reconstruction-641500.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 14:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-in-philippine-earthquake-rises-to-70-with-559-injuries-641505.html Manila Oct 4 The death toll in Tuesdays magnitude 69 earthquake in Cebu province in central Philippines has climbed to 70 according to the latest official figure released by the Philippines highest body for disaster risk reduction and management on Saturday The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council NDRRMC reported that 32 of the fatalities were recorded in Bogo City the quakes epicentre 15 in San Remigio town 14 in Medellin town six in Tabogon town and one each in the municipalities of Sogod Tabuelan and BorbonThe NDRRMC further reported that 559 people have been injured in the 5kilometredeep offshore quake that struck at 959 pm local time while villagers were asleep and preparing to go to bedMore than 120000 families or approximately 457000 people were affected by the tremor which damaged over 18000 houses and more than 500 infrastructures including roads bridges and the citys hospitalThe Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology continues to record aftershocks with more than 5000 as of the time of writing prompting people to stay in open spaces in makeshift tents due to their reluctance to return home because of the aftershocksAll residents have now been accounted for Xinhua news agency reportedThe Philippine government has announced the termination of search rescue and retrieval operations focusing on relief efforts early recovery and rehabilitation activitiesNearly four days since the quake struck survivors continue to depend on the dole out for food and water as they face daily struggles to live The victims appeal for food packs first aid kits hygiene supplies tents sleeping bags and generator sets amid power outagesThe Philippines sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire a region prone to earthquakes and volcanic activityEarlier on Thursday the Philippine government had announced the official termination of search rescue and retrieval operations in the four municipalities hardest hit by a powerful earthquakeIn a statement the Philippines Office of Civil Defence had announced that search rescue and retrieval operations in the municipalities of San Remigio Daanbantayan Medellin and the City of Bogo Province of Cebu ended on Thursday afternoon IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-in-philippine-earthquake-rises-to-70-with-559-injuries-641505.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 14:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/typhoon-matmo-approaches-towards-china-emergency-responses-activated-641508.html Guangzhou Oct 4 The southern Chinese provinces of Guangdong and Hainan on Saturday upgraded their emergency typhoon responses as Typhoon Matmo the 21st named storm of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season approaches The Guangdong flood control headquarters upgraded its emergency typhoon response to Level II the secondhighest level from Level IV at 9 am as heavy rains and strong winds are expected in the next 48 hoursAt 9 am Typhoon Matmo was located about 670 kilometres southeast of Xuwen County in Guangdong Province packing winds of up to 33 meters per second at its centre according to the National Meteorological CentreMatmo which has strengthened to typhoon level was moving northwestward at a speed of roughly 25 kilometres per hour while still increasing in intensityMatmo is expected to make landfall as a typhoon or severe typhoon on Sunday morning along the coast in an area ranging from Dianbai in Guangdong to Wanning in HainanFishing boats in affected sea locations off Guangdong have been ordered to return to ports for shelter while affected coastal cities have been urged to implement prevention measures in bracing for potential waterlogging flash floods and landslidesLocal authorities in Guangdong have been instructed to enhance forecasts issue timely warnings implement emergency response measures and relocate residents living in vulnerable areas Xinhua news agency reportedMeanwhile in Hainan the provincial committee for disaster prevention mitigation and relief upgraded their emergency typhoon response for vessels and marine operations in affected sea areas to Level III from a LevelIV emergency response at 830 am on SaturdayHaikou the provincial capital of Hainan plans to suspend classes including tutoring institutions work activities public transportation and park and business operations from Saturday afternoon to Sunday according to the Haikou committee for disaster prevention mitigation and reliefAlso Haikou Meilan International Airport is scheduled to cancel all inbound and outbound flights starting from 11 pm on SaturdayChina has a fourtier emergency response system with Level I being the most severe response IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/typhoon-matmo-approaches-towards-china-emergency-responses-activated-641508.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 14:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/nepal-imposes-three-day-ban-on-vehicular-movement-around-kathmandu-after-landslides-641509.html Kathmandu Oct 4 The Nepali government has imposed a threeday ban on vehicles entering and leaving the Kathmandu Valley starting Saturday citing the risks posed by incessant rainfall and landslides In a notice issued on Saturday the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority NDRRMA a body under the Home Ministry stated on Saturday that vehicular movement to and from the Kathmandu Valley will be prohibited on Saturday Sunday and MondayThe governments move comes at a time when many Nepalis who had travelled to their hometowns to celebrate Dashain Dussehra the biggest festival of Nepali Hindus were preparing to return to the Kathmandu Valley The Himalayan country witnesses significant temporary migration from the Kathmandu Valley to various parts of the country during the festival with people returning to the capital afterwardsSimilarly longdistance travel from five of the seven provinces Koshi Madhesh Bagmati Gandaki and Lumbini has also been prohibited due to risks related to landslides flooding and inundationThe NDRRMA has urged local administrations in the affected districts as well as security agencies to ensure that vehicular movement is restrictedAccording to the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division several roads connecting Kathmandu with the rest of the country including the busiest Prithvi Highway have been blocked due to landslides Vehicular movement has also been halted on several other highways including the Koshi Highway in eastern Nepal and highways connecting the border with China such as the Araniko Highway Pasang Lhamu Highway and B P Highway which serves as an alternative route to the southeastern Terai region according to the Nepal PoliceAccording to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology cloudy weather is expected across the country There is a possibility of moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in many places of the hilly and Terai regions of Koshi Madhesh Bagmati Gandaki and Lumbini Provinces and at a few places in the hilly and Terai regions of the remaining provinces the department said in a statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/nepal-imposes-three-day-ban-on-vehicular-movement-around-kathmandu-after-landslides-641509.html Sat, 04 Oct 2025 14:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/from-honeytraps-to-hashtags-isi-eyes-300-400-influencers-in-india-641301.html New Delhi Oct 3 The influencer spy network in India is deeper than one may have imagined and the arrest of another YouTuber Wasim Akram from Haryana is a clear indication of that The roping in of influencers into the ISIs spy circle is a complete shift from the earlier methods that were used While all other mechanisms such as honey trapping blackmail etc are concerning the roping of the influencers is far more dangerous Along with information comes propaganda which Pakistan desperately needs after being exposedAn Intelligence Bureau official said that the ISI planned to rope in nearly 300 to 400 influencers with a huge following into their network What is interesting is that these influencers are lured into the network more for likes and views rather than just money It is a package deal which involves money free travel and with this comes the likes and viewsThe investigating agencies are keeping a close watch on many influencers and are trying to understand what kind of content they post The content does not necessarily have to be antiIndia However it is proPakistan and such content is circulated widely in Pakistan and this is what has been boosting views and likesIt all began with the arrest of YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra by the Haryana police This led to more arrests and more information about the modus operandi began spilling outInvestigations have revealed that there is a team that has been set up in Pakistan just to identify influencers A thorough check of these persons is carried out and once they realise that these people are vulnerable the Pakistan High Commission in India is informed about the sameIt is then the duty of the official at the High Commission to get in touch with these influencers Once that is established they are invited over to get together at the High Commission Following this they are offered a free trip to Pakistan and all arrangements for the visa were madeAn official said that the ISI identifies only those influencers who care about likes and views The promise of free travel and the assurance of a large number of views and likes is sufficient for these influencers to fall trapOnce in Pakistan they are asked to make videos praising the country its culture cuisine etc The ISI also ensures that these persons are paid for putting up such content Once the money bait is bitten then the second part of the trap beginsUsing this to blackmail these persons are asked to dig out information and pass it on to Pakistan Once they reach this stage then it becomes a point of no return However in these cases the ISI prefers the propaganda that the videos create rather than the information that the influencers bring inThe reach of these influencers is massive and once these videos are made it only increases with more subscriptions from Pakistan and Pakistanis across the globeFor instance Jyoti Malhotra at the time of her arrest had 381000 subscribers In the case of another influencer spy Jasbir Singh the number was at 11 million What the ISI achieves from such videos is propaganda They circulate these videos with the message that Pakistan is not as bad as it is being made out to be It also helps them cover up the many other videos that show Pakistan as a failing economySuch videos by these spies help cover that narrative and they try and portray how prosperous the country is and how their heritage and culture areFollowing these arrests security agencies are discussing how much is too much when it comes to these influencers The ISI is aware that due to what they do there is very little scrutiny on them and these persons get a lot of access under the garb of making videos This comes in handy when the ISI wants to gather Intelligence regarding IndiaDuring Operation Sindoor such influencers were found to be providing realtime Intelligence regarding the Indian military movements and details about the cantonments Such influencers can gather this information easily when compared to traditional spies as there is very little suspicion of them IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/from-honeytraps-to-hashtags-isi-eyes-300-400-influencers-in-india-641301.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/manohar-kahaniyan-iaf-chief-on-pakistan-claims-of-downing-indian-jets-in-op-sindoor-641309.html New Delhi Oct 3 In a sharp rebuttal to claims made by Pakistan regarding Indian Air Force losses during Operation Sindoor Air Chief Marshal AP Singh dismissed the narrative as baseless and fictional If Pakistan thinks they have downed my 15 Indian jets let them think he said adding with a touch of sarcasm Unhka jo narrative hai manohar kahaniyan hai chalne do let them be happy with this referring to the claims as fanciful storiesThe remarks come amid heightened tensions and media speculation following Pakistans assertion that it had successfully targeted multiple Indian aircraftThe IAF Chiefs response signals a firm rejection of these claims and underscores Indias confidence in its operational capabilitiesSpeaking at a defence briefing on Friday Air Chief Marshal Singh also praised the performance of the S400 air defence system calling it a good weapon systemThe S400 acquired from Russia is one of the most advanced surfacetoair missile systems in the world and has been integrated into Indias layered air defence strategyHis comments reflect a broader message of strategic assurance and technological readinessBy publicly backing the S400 and brushing off adversarial propaganda the IAF Chief reinforced Indias commitment to maintaining air superiority and defending its airspace with precision and resilienceThe Indian Air Force has remained tightlipped about operational details but Singhs statements suggest that the force is focused on facts not fictionDefence analysts view his remarks as a signal to both domestic and international audiences that India will not be swayed by misinformation or psychological tacticsAs geopolitical narratives continue to evolve the IAFs leadership appears determined to stay grounded in reality relying on proven systems and strategic clarity rather than engaging in rhetorical battlesThe IAF Chiefs remarks come at a time when information warfare is increasingly used as a tool of psychological influence By publicly dismissing unfounded claims and reinforcing confidence in Indias defence infrastructure the chief sent a clear message about the Air Forces strategic posture IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/manohar-kahaniyan-iaf-chief-on-pakistan-claims-of-downing-indian-jets-in-op-sindoor-641309.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pak-flare-ups-a-result-of-misgovernance-repression-of-people-641333.html New Delhi Oct 3 This weeks flareup in PakistanOccupiedJammu and Kashmir POJK is not one in isolation The rise in voices of revolt from various parts of the country reflect decades of misgovernance and quixotic adventures by Islamabad As Islamabad grapples with widespread revolt for independence in Balochistan and unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP the recent uproar has proved that freedom is not about just adding the word azad free to a states nameAdding to the parody of governance is Rawalpindis Army headquarters interference in political and diplomatic matters leaving the government in Islamabad helpless and attending more to dirty tasksThe dichotomy was evident in the developments witnessed in the last few weeks In what could be the first instance in recent diplomacy the Pakistan Army chief was at an exclusive luncheon meeting with the President of the United StatesA few days later General Asim Munir was escorting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to the White House for an 80minute meeting preceded by a 30minute wait for US President Donald Trump to wrap up more important matters which also included an exchange of light comments with the Press corpEven while his bosses were making forays into White House Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admitted to Islamabads closer proximity to Beijing than Washington when the latter two will always be at loggerheadsThis illustrates the comedy of errors that takes place due to the IslamabadRawalpindi battle for supremacy that mostly leads to a tragedy with deaths and destructionAmid uncertainties over governance Islamabad has responded to the developing crisis by diverting thousands of additional troops and repressionCivil society groups and international observers have condemned this heavyhanded approach At a recent UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva Nasir Aziz Khan of the United Kashmir Peoples National Party urged the international community to intervene against what he described as Pakistans growing repression and looming humanitarian crisis in POJKWhat the beleaguered people of the region sought was access to jobs affordable foodstuff adequate representation in the Assembly among others The stir underscores the illusion of a free nation with a premier in Muzaffarabad while actual control lay in hands in IslamabadRawalpindiExperts warn that such security operations in POJK Balochistan and KP without genuine political inclusion equitable development and respect for human rights will keep the unrest boilingAlong the restive PakAfghan frontier which Islamabad once used as a launchpad for Mujahideen groups the TehrikeTaliban Pakistan TTP and some splinter cells once trained by Pakistans ISI have turned the guns on their mentors facing a change in government policy and tacticIn Balochistan the Khanate of Kalats reluctant accession in 1948 sowed the seeds of resentment Federal policies that followed centralising reforms in the 1950s suppression of a provincial government in the 1970s and uneven revenuesharing cemented the process of exploitationToday with the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor CPEC pouring billions into Gwadar port and highway projects the Baloch are facing a form of resource colonialism A 2017 federal accord promising development funds and political dialogue stumbled amid slow and few allocations and missing personnelLocal people say reports seek schools and jobs not just another commission Analysts argue that without a sustained shift towards political inclusion and socioeconomic investment Pakistan risks perpetuating a costly cycle of insurgency and counterinsurgency IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pak-flare-ups-a-result-of-misgovernance-repression-of-people-641333.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/counterterrorism-trade-and-regional-security-to-top-agenda-as-muttaqi-visits-india-641336.html New Delhi Oct 3 The visit by Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi marks a new chapter in the engagement between India and the Taliban All eyes would be on this trip by Muttaqi which was made possible following an exemption being approved by the UN Security Councils Talian Sanctions Committee He would be in New Delhi between October 9 and 16 During his visit he would meet with Indias Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar He is also likely to meet with National Security Advisor Ajit DovalThe visit is a diplomatic breakthrough as both countries have had strained relations for several yearsThere is much on the agenda during the visit Counterterrorism would get top billing during the talks Both Afghanistan and India have a common problem in Pakistan today Hence the discussions would largely revolve around counterterrorism and the ways to enhance ties when it comes to securityAfghanistan would seek discussions on regional security and also raise counterterrorism concerns Trade would also be discussed at length during the meetings Both sides would like to ease out all barriers standing in the way of bilateral trade This would mean easing transport barriers boosting crossborder commerce and also opening new trade corridorsThe issue of visa quotas would also be discussed This would be helpful for medical travellers students and business people India is likely to increase scholarships for Afghan students who are pursuing higher studies in professional as well as technical fieldsAfghanistan would seek cooperation in medical facilities health missions Further discussions would also revolve around areas of infrastructure development water and electricityAnother important point of discussion would be the upgradation of the Indian embassy in Kabul Both sides are likely to agree on posting fullfledged ambassadors and also expand consular presence This would lead to statetostate engagement between the two countriesMuttaqi was earlier scheduled to visit India in September but the plan failed after the UN refused to give permission The US and Pakistan which is now a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council were opposed to the visitThe rules state that all decisions by the committee are made by consensus and even if one country opposes the decision it can be blocked On the earlier occasion it was Pakistan that blocked Muttaqis visit to IndiaDr Jaishankar had said that he had spoken with Muttaqi in May He said that he had a good conversation with him and added that he appreciated Muttaqis condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attackThe visit is also part of a long diplomatic game Indian officials including Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and senior IFS officer JP Singh have held several meetings over the past year with Muttaqi and other leaders of the Taliban at neutral venues such as DubaiOne of the key reasons for India to share good ties with Afghanistan is due to regional geopolitics and geoeconomic interests While the Taliban was considered a Pakistan asset a lot changed after they refused to rein in the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTPPakistan accuses the Taliban of backing the TTP but the claim has been denied Further China too has been courting the Taliban with an eye on resources This could endanger Indias position in the Central Asian region and hence relations in this regard are importantMuttaqi has served as Foreign Minister since the US withdrew its troops in 2021 He had taken part in a trilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Minister Ishaq DarDuring that meeting it was agreed to expand the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor Project into Afghanistan Taking all these considerations the visit by Muttaqi is important for India and the engagements would be closely watched by many IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/counterterrorism-trade-and-regional-security-to-top-agenda-as-muttaqi-visits-india-641336.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/natural-consequence-of-pakistans-oppressive-approach-india-on-pok-protests--641338.html New Delhi Oct 3 IANS India on Friday termed the massive protests in Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir PoJK which have reportedly resulted in over a dozen deaths till now as a natural consequence of Pakistans oppressive approach and systemic plundering of resources from these territoriesnbspAddressing a weekly media briefing in New Delhi Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi is aware of the ongoing protests in several parts of Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir including the brutalities being committed by Pakistani forces on localsWe have seen reports on protests in several areas of Pakistanoccupied Jammu and Kashmir including brutalities by Pakistani forces on innocent civilians We believe that it is a natural consequence of Pakistans oppressive approach and systemic plundering of resources from these territories which remain under its forcible and illegal occupation Pakistan must be held accountable for its horrific human rights violations Jaiswal told reportersnbspReaffirming Indias stance the MEA spokesperson emphasised that Jammu and Kashmir along with Ladakh will always remain an integral part of IndiaJammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are inalienable part of India will remain and have always been part of India Those territories PoK are our inalienable part he mentionednbspThe statement comes after several people including police personnel have been killed and dozens injured during the ongoing violent clashes in Pakistanoccupied Kashmir that began during the strike called by the Joint Awami Action Committee JAAC for reforms and public facilities in the regionnbspBusiness and other activities have remained shut in the PoK due to the strike amid disruption in communication in the region Incidents of violence occurred in Dhir Kot and other parts of PoK with the local authorities saying that 172 police personnel and 50 civilians have also been injured in the clashesThe regions of Muzaffarabad Mirpur Poonch Neelum Bhimber and Palandri have been brought to a standstill after the strike call given by JAAC central leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir Pakistani daily The Express Tribune reported on ThursdaynbspMarkets remained shut roads were blocked and internet services were restricted in Muzaffarabad excluding the areas which share border with KhyberPakhtunkhwaThree police personnel were killed and nine others were injured during an attack carried out by armed men belonging to the JAAC in Dhir Kot the daily reported citing reports The JAAC had been raising several demands including an end to the privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees and the removal of the quota system Furthermore the committee has demanded free and uniform education across the territory free healthcare facilities reforms in the judicial work of the region and the development of an international airportShaukat Nawaz Mir a top leader of the Awami Action Committee in PoK has accused Pakistans government and army of oppressing locals comparing them to a witch bent on killing own peoplenbspHe also alleged that the voices of ordinary people are being crushed the media is being silenced and questioned the legitimacy of Pakistani forces that kill those they claim to represent https://dailyworld.in/international/natural-consequence-of-pakistans-oppressive-approach-india-on-pok-protests--641338.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/germany-munich-airport-reopens-after-drone-sightings-forced-suspension-of-flight-operations-641345.html Berlin Oct 3 Germanys Munich airport has reopened on Friday after several drone sightings had forced suspension of flight operations on Thursday night The airport shut late on Thursday night reportedly reopened early on Friday morning According to the statement released by the airport flights were grounded from 1018 pm local time and 17 flights and nearly 3000 passengers were impacted at the time of its release Euro News reportedIn a statement the airport stated Late in the evening of October 2 German air traffic control DFS restricted flight operations at Munich Airport from 1018 pm and later suspended them altogether due to several drone sightingsWhen a drone is sighted the safety of travellers is the top priority it addedThe drone sighting in Germany is the latest in a string of such incidents happening across Europe in the past week Earlier airports in Poland Norway and Denmark also suspended operations for sometime due to unidentified drone activityAirspace violations were also reported in Estonia and Romania which accused Russia for the incident However Russia has rejected the allegationsEarlier on September 26 Aalborg airport in Denmark was shut for a second time in just 24 hours after suspected drone incursion While addressing a press conference on September 25 Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that a professional actor was responsible for the systematic operation that was difficult to fight against Euro News reportedThis is an arms race against time because technology is constantly evolving Poulsen said while expressing optimism that those behind the drone activity will be brought to bookHe stated We are going to find the people who are behind thisDanish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard said on Thursday that the drone incursion was aimed to create fear and division adding that Denmark will seek additional ways to neutralise drones including proposing law to allow infrastructure owners to bring them downOn September 22 the Copenhagen airport was affected by a similar incident Authorities said the drones at Aalborg followed a similar pattern to the ones that paused operations at Copenhagen Similarly Norwegian authorities also closed the airspace at Oslo airport for three hours on September 22 due to possible danger from unauthorised drone activity IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/germany-munich-airport-reopens-after-drone-sightings-forced-suspension-of-flight-operations-641345.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/canada-theatres-halt-screening-of-indian-films-after-arson-attacks-641358.html Ottawa Oct 3 Several theatres in Canada are withdrawing screenings of Indian movies following arson attacks on cinema halls over the past one week York Cinemas on Friday India time announced that it will not be screening Indian movies until further notice In the statement the companys management stated that the decision has been taken for the safety of its employees and guests Dear Patrons Please note that due to recent incidents we will not be screening Indian movies until further notice This decision has been made with the safety of our employees and guests in mind Advance ticket purchases will be refunded and the amount should appear in your account within a few business days read a statement issued by the York CinemasSimilarly FilmCa Cinemas of Toronto also announced that it was cancelling screenings of South Asian films following an arson attempt and a shooting on its property in the past weekThe cinema company stated that the two incidents occurred at its Oakville location in Ontario the latest on the night of October 2 when a suspect fired multiple rounds through the entrance doors of the building The theatre was shut at the time and no casualty was reported Canadabased CBC News reportedLast week two suspects had used a flammable liquid to set the entrance doors of the theatre on fire Halton police said that the blaze was contained and it did not cause significant damage as they continue to investigate the September 25 incidentYou may have seen or heard about the recent arson attempt on our cinema The good news only the entrance was affected and the rest of the theatre is completely safe undamaged and fully operational These cowardly acts occurred overnight when we were closed and no guests or staff were present Weve since enhanced security to ensure the ongoing safety of everyone who visits Jeff Knoll CEO of FilmCa Cinemas formerly Encore Cinemas said in a statement on September 27Similar incidents have also been reported at other theatres in the Greater Toronto area and British Columbia as per a CBC News report Some distributors of South Indian films in Canada have claimed that there is an ongoing campaign to stop screening of popular movies in Canadian theatre chains in order to control the market and safeguard profits IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/canada-theatres-halt-screening-of-indian-films-after-arson-attacks-641358.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/rbi-proposes-easier-rules-for-companies-to-raise-foreign-currency-loans-641382.html New Delhi Oct 3 The Reserve Bank of India RBI on Friday released draft rules to make it easier for Indian companies to raise money in foreign currencies The central bank has suggested widening the pool of both borrowers and lenders who can take part in external commercial borrowings ECBsAs announced in the statement on developmental and regulatory policies dated October 01 it has been decided to rationalise regulations pertaining to external commercial borrowing ECB included in the Foreign Exchange Management Borrowing and Lending Regulations 2018 issued under FEMA 1999 RBI said in its statementThe borrowing limits are proposed to be linked to a borrowers financial strength and ECB are proposed to be raised at market determined interest rates the Central Bank addedUnder the draft companies will be allowed to raise funds overseas based on their financial strengthThe borrower and lender base eligible for ECB transactions is proposed to be expanded to enhance opportunities of credit flow RBI statedFirms could borrow up to 1 billion or as much as 300 per cent of their net worth whichever is higherThe enduse restrictions and Minimum Average Maturity requirements are proposed to be simplified the Central Bank addedThe RBI has also said that these borrowings can be raised at marketdetermined interest rates giving companies more flexibility in accessing global fundsThe move is aimed at making overseas fundraising more attractive and aligned with international practices while also ensuring that companies with strong financials have better access to foreign capitalThe RBI has invited feedback on the draft rules from stakeholders and the public until October 24 The final regulations will be issued after reviewing the suggestionsComments feedback on the draft regulations may be submitted through the respective link under the Connect 2 Regulate Section available on the RBIs website or may be forwarded via email by October 24 with the subject line Feedback on draft ECB framework RBI added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/rbi-proposes-easier-rules-for-companies-to-raise-foreign-currency-loans-641382.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/italy-two-indian-nationals-killed-in-an-accident-near-grosseto-641386.html Rome Oct 3 Two Indian nationals from Nagpur have died in an accident near Grosseto in Italy the Indian Embassy in Italy said on Friday The Embassy said that it is in contact with the family and local Italian authorities and providing assistance to the family of the deceased The Embassy conveys its heartfelt and sincere condolences for the tragic loss of two Indian nationals from Nagpur in an accident near Grosseto the Indian Embassy in Italy posted on XOur prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured family members who are undergoing treatment The Embassy is in contact with the family and local Italian authorities We are providing all assistance to the family it addedThe Embassys statement comes after three people died and five others including two children were injured some seriously in an accident near Grosseto The accident involving a van and a nineseater minibus carrying tourists of Asian origin occurred shortly before 9 am local time on Thursday ItalienNews reported According to the authorities three persons died on the spotFor three of the occupants all help came too late according to the authorities they died at the scene of the accident the news portal mentionedFollowing the accident a largescale operation was launched Two fire department teams supported by an incident commander freed the injured from the wrecked vehicles to hand them over to medical personnel Two rescue helicopters were used considering the severity of the injuries Two of the five injured were taken to the hospital in Siena one person was taken to the Careggi hospital in Florence and two others to the local hospital in Grosseto according to the reportApart from emergency services the traffic police carabinieri and technicians from the road management company ANAS were deployed at the site of the incident to regulate traffic and start reconstructing the course of the accident Investigations into the exact cause of the accident are being conducted the report detailed IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/italy-two-indian-nationals-killed-in-an-accident-near-grosseto-641386.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/laos-warns-of-more-heavy-rain-as-tropical-storm-matmo-approaches-641392.html Vientiane Oct 3 The Lao weather bureau has issued a nationwide warning for continued rainfall as tropical storm Matmo approaches urging the public to stay alert and prepare for potential flooding and landslides The storm is moving westnorthwest at a speed of 20 km per hour and is expected to cross the Philippines before entering Laos bringing thunderstorms strong winds and heavy rainfall to various parts of the country from October 3 to 7 according to a report from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment on FridayOfficials are urging all communities and local authorities to remain alert and take precautionary measures Prolonged heavy rainfall may trigger landslides flash floods and urban flooding in several areas Xinhua news agency reportedSeveral provinces in Laos are experiencing widespread flooding due to continuous rainfall With river levels still rising and saturated ground conditions following previous storms the risk of further flooding remains high Residents are advised to stay informed and follow official safety instructionsEarlier on September 26 the weather bureau of Laos had issued a warning as tropical storm Bualoi approached as it was expected to bring widespread rainfall and increase the risk of flooding and landslides across the countryThe storm was expected to move across multiple regions of the country bringing light to moderate thunderstorms nationwide with some areas likely to experience heavy rainfall and strong winds during this periodThe Lao weather bureau had also issued a warning about the increased risk of flash floods and landslides during this period Residents and local authorities are urged to stay alert and prepare for several days of continuous heavy rainfall that could lead to hazardous conditionsAuthorities in central Laos Xaysomboun province visited areas affected by severe flooding which has resulted in property damage and the loss of three lives Emergency services and local authorities are onsite to assist residentsMatmo locally known as Paolo was the 16th tropical cyclone to hit the Philippines this year The Southeast Asian archipelago nation is lashed by about 20 typhoons and storms a year and lies on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire making it one of the countries most prone to natural disasters IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/laos-warns-of-more-heavy-rain-as-tropical-storm-matmo-approaches-641392.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/afghan-foreign-minister-to-begin-india-visit-next-week-confirms-mea-641394.html New Delhi Oct 3 The Ministry of External Affairs MEA on Friday confirmed that Afghanistans Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will be on an official visit to India from October 916 While addressing a media briefing in New Delhi MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the United Nations Security Council UNSC Committee has granted exemption for Muttaqis travel to IndiaAll of you would have seen the exemption that has been granted by the UN Security Council Committee for the travel of Afghan Foreign Minister to New Delhi from October 9 to 16 This public information is there in the public domain We shall keep you updated in this regard Jaiswal told reportersDuring his visit the visiting Afghan minister is likely to call on External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor NSA Ajit DovalAs reported by IANS earlier Muttaqi was supposed to visit India a few weeks ago but had failed to receive a travel ban exemption from the United Nations Security CouncilThe visit is part of diplomatic engagements taking place between New Delhi and the Taliban regime over the past many months including Foreign Secretary Vikram Misris meeting with Muttaqi in January earlier this yearSeveral key officials from Kabul have visited New Delhi in the past few months including Afghanistans Deputy Minister of Medicine and Food Hamdullah Zahid who was in the Indian capital last month for the 11th edition of the International Exhibition on Pharmaceuticals and HealthcareNotably another top Taliban official handling security and strategic affairs whose identity cannot be revealed visited the Indian capital last month and left only last weekWe have been having conversation with the interim government in Afghanistan You would have seen the telecon that had taken place some time back between External Affairs Minister and Foreign Minister Muttaqi Also weve had conversation between the Joint Secretary in charge and his counterparts on the Afghan side Recently when the earthquake happened the same day we were able to transport relief material to Kunar province and subsequently we sent more relief material via Chabahar said Jaiswal on Friday IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/afghan-foreign-minister-to-begin-india-visit-next-week-confirms-mea-641394.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-singapore-agree-to-bolster-trade-investment-ties-cooperation-in-innovation-641415.html New Delhi Oct 3 IANS Union Minister of Commerce ampamp Industry Piyush Goyal on Friday held a discussion with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on strengthening trade and investment linkages enhancing cooperation in innovation and digital connectivity and exploring new opportunities in sustainable development between India and Singapore according to an official statementnbspDelighted to call on HE LawrenceWongST Prime Minister of Singapore Discussions reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen our comprehensive strategic partnership building on the strong momentum and vast potential for future growth Goyal said in a post on XOn his part Wong posted Strengthening Ties with India Met Indias Commerce ampamp Industry Minister PiyushGoyal We had a good discussion on deepening our economic partnership from industrial park development to emerging tech like AInbspGoyal also met Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim YongnbspHad a fruitful bilateral meeting with Gan Kim Yong Deputy Prime Minister ampamp Minister for Trade ampamp Industry Singapore There are immense avenues for our nations to collaborate across sectors such as advanced manufacturing skilling infrastructure and digital connectivity among others Look forward to building on these opportunities strengthening investment ties and further deepening the IndiaSingapore partnership Goyal said in another post on XIn Goyals bilateral meeting with Gan the issue of further deepening industrial and trade cooperation between the two countries was discussed in detailnbspThe Indian minister is on a threeday official visit to Singapore to further strengthen bilateral economic and trade relations between the two countriesnbspIn Goyals bilateral meeting with Gan the issue of further deepening industrial and trade cooperation between the two countries was discussed in detailnbspGoyal also met Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan where both sides reaffirmed strategic trust and alignment on regional and global economic prioritiesThe visit highlighted Indias strong growth trajectory commitment to investmentled reforms and the vast opportunities available for global partners across manufacturing infrastructure financial services and the green economynbspA major highlight of the visit was the Business Roundtable on Foreign Direct Investment in the Manufacturing Sector which was attended by key decisionmakers from AmCham EuroCham the German Chamber of Industry ampamp Commerce and other business leadersnbspDelivering the keynote address Goyal underscored Indias robust economic growth proinvestment policies and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening its position as a global manufacturing hubIn addition to these leadership engagements he also held strategic business meetings with leading corporates of Singapore and institutional investorsnbspAt SIA Engineering Company SIAEC discussions focused on Indias fastgrowing Maintenance Repair ampamp Overhaul MRO sector and the need to fasttrack the IndiaSingapore Skilling Centre for MRO professionals in collaboration with Indian universities Capital Land Investment conveyed its commitment to expand renewable energy solutions for data centres in Maharashtra while also exploring opportunities in industrial parks worker housing models and potential entry into credit financingRoyal Golden Eagle RGE shared updates on its tissue and pulp operations in India discussed operational challenges and expressed interest in knowledge exchange on sustainable forestry and reforestation practices The Indian minister also had meetings with the CEODesignate of GIC Bryan Yeo and the CEO of Temasek Dilhan Pillay which focused on scaling up Indiafocused portfolios across infrastructure hospitality renewable energy financial services and urban developmentnbspThe visit reaffirmed the strong and growing strategic and economic partnership between India and Singapore with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation in manufacturing infrastructure the green transition the digital economy and financial investments the statement added https://dailyworld.in/international/india-singapore-agree-to-bolster-trade-investment-ties-cooperation-in-innovation-641415.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 20:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/resumption-of-direct-flights-between-india-and-china-by-late-october-announces-mea-641199.html New DelhiBeijing Oct 2 Direct air services connecting designated points in India and China can resume by late October 2025 the Ministry of External Affairs MEA stated on Thursday The civil aviation authorities of the two countries have been engaged in technicallevel discussions on resuming direct air services between the two countries and on a revised Air Services Agreement since the start of this year as part of the Indian governments approach towards gradual normalisation of relations between both countriesFollowing these discussions it has now been agreed that direct air services connecting designated points in India and China can resume by late October 2025 in keeping with the winter season schedule subject to commercial decision of the designated carriers from the two countries and fulfilment of all operational criteria read a statement issued by the MEAThis agreement of the civil aviation authorities will further facilitate peopletopeople contact between India and China contributing towards the gradual normalisation of bilateral exchanges it addedLast month during their meeting in Tianjin on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation SCO Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping reflected on the pragmatic approach from both countries of prioritising dialogue confidencebuilding measures and regional engagementThe meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and building on recent progress in IndiaChina relationsThe breakthrough in dialogue was made possible after both sides reached an agreement on patrolling protocols along the 3500kmlong Line of Actual Control LAC effectively easing a fouryear border confrontationThe two leaders noted with satisfaction the successful disengagement last year and the maintenance of peace and tranquility along the border areas since then They expressed commitment to a fair reasonable and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question proceeding from the political perspective of their overall bilateral relations and the longterm interests of the two peoples They recognised the important decisions taken by the two Special Representatives in their talks earlier this month and agreed to further support their efforts the MEA had stated after the meeting between the two leadersChinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also visited India in September for the Special Representatives SR talks on the boundary question and said that Beijing attaches great importance to PM Modis visit to TianjinDuring his meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Wang Yi stated History and reality prove once again that a healthy and stable ChinaIndia relationship serves the fundamental and longterm interests of both of our countries It is also what developing countries all want to seeEarlier the KailashMansarovar Yatra suspended for a long time was restored for the summer of 2025 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/resumption-of-direct-flights-between-india-and-china-by-late-october-announces-mea-641199.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/afghanistans-fm-amir-khan-muttaqi-to-visit-delhi-next-week-641202.html New Delhi Oct 2 In a major development that is likely to strengthen IndiaTaliban relations Afghanistans Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will be visiting New Delhi next week sources told IANS As reported by IANS earlier FM Muttaqi was likely to visit New Delhi in the last week of August but back then he failed to receive a travel ban exemption from the United Nations Security CouncilSources confirmed that the senior Taliban government Minister who has been heading the Foreign Affairs Ministry since 2021 will be here in New Delhi on October 910As Delhi and Kabul are facing a new tectonic shift in their bilateral relations after the takeover of the Taliban in 2021 both nations have enhanced their diplomatic relations and his visit to New Delhi at a time when Kabul and Islamabad are facing a rough time is being seen as a major developmentAt present the Durand Line remains on the boil amidst increasing tensions between Afghanistan and PakistanIslamabad has accused Kabul of shielding TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP cadre and recently even conducted crossborder air attacks inviting strong criticism from the Taliban leadershipIn the last few months several key officials from the Taliban have visited New Delhi including Afghanistans Deputy Minister of Medicine and Food Hamdullah Zahid who was in the Indian capital last month for the 11th edition of the International Exhibition on Pharmaceuticals and HealthcareNotably another top Taliban official handling security and strategic affairs whose identity cannot be revealed came to Delhi last month and departed only last weekSources aware of the matter said He came to Delhi in September and departed only last week He stayed here for nearly a month and held active discussions with Indian counterparts on key issuesIndia has so far refrained from granting formal recognition to the Taliban regime However from reopening the Embassy in Kabul to dispatching continuous humanitarian aid especially after the deadly earthquake New Delhi continues to maintain regular contact with the Taliban regimeAlso India has handed over Afghanistans consulates in Mumbai and Hyderabad to Taliban diplomatsAn official who did not wish to be named told IANS that with the visit of FM Muttaqi to New Delhi there are possibilities that Afghanistans embassy in New Delhi could sooner be given to Taliban officialsAt the moment the embassy in New Delhi is being managed by Chargé daffaires Muhammad Ibrahim Khil who is representing the previous regime of Ashraf Ghani IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/afghanistans-fm-amir-khan-muttaqi-to-visit-delhi-next-week-641202.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/two-more-people-die-due-to-dengue-in-bangladesh-death-toll-in-2025-crosses-200-641206.html Dhaka Oct 2 Two more people have died due to dengue in Bangladesh in the past 24 hours increasing the death toll from the mosquitoborne disease in the country in 2025 to 202 During the same period 396 more patients were admitted to hospital with the viral fever increasing the total number of cases in Bangladesh in 2025 to 48228 according to the Directorate General of Health Services DGHS United News of Bangladesh UNB reportedThe DGHS said that the new fatalities were reported in Chattogram Division and Dhaka North City Corporation DNCC As per the latest data the new dengue cases have been reported inChattogram Division 96 Dhaka Division 90 Barishal Division 87 Dhaka South City Corporation 56 Dhaka North City Corporation 52 and Rajshahi Division 15 Presently 2344 patients were receiving treatment at hospitals in BangladeshA total of 575 people died due to dengue in Bangladesh in 2024 The DGHS said that 101214 dengue cases and 100040 recoveries were reported in Bangladesh during the same period As many as 1705 people died due to dengue in 2023 making it the the deadliest year on recordOn September 22 Dhaka North City Corporation DNCC unveiled its Dengue dashboard a datadriven monitoring tool made to transform how city authorities monitor and respond to outbreaks The dashboard developed through the DNCC Innovation Lab and support from the United Nations Development Programme UNDP will provide concrete steps for timely interventions while raising awareness among people regarding prevention of dengue the UNB reportedDNCC Administrator Mohammad Azaz said The Dengue Watch dashboard is more than a tool It is a step toward transforming DNCC into a digitally driven transparent and accountable institution By harnessing innovation we can integrate health environment and governance to build a smarter healthier DhakaUNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh Stefan Liller reiterated UNDPs support to innovation in urban health management He stated For UNDP it has been a privilege to support the innovation efforts of DNCC The Innovation Lab established in 2025 by DNCC and UNDP is striving to become a hub for smart scalable and citizencentered urban solutions The Dengue Watch Dashboard is one of its latest outcomes and it shows what is possible when local leadership data and innovation come togetherThe tool was showcased during the keynote session followed by a panel discussion with stakeholders from DGHS and other partners Representatives from the health ministry city corporations development partners and startups attended the eventDengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus DENV which is transmitted to human beings through the bite of infected mosquitoes There is no specific treatment for dengue however early detection and access to proper medical care lower fatality rates of severe dengue IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/two-more-people-die-due-to-dengue-in-bangladesh-death-toll-in-2025-crosses-200-641206.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indigo-to-resume-flights-between-india-and-china-after-five-years-641207.html New Delhi Oct 2 Lowcost carrier IndiGo on Thursday announced the resumption of its flight services to China marking the return of direct air connectivity between the two countries after more than five years The airline will launch daily nonstop flights from Kolkata to Guangzhou starting October 26 using its Airbus A320neo aircraftSubject to regulatory approvals IndiGo also plans to start direct flights between Delhi and Guangzhou in the coming monthsThe airline said that the restart of services will not only boost tourism but also reestablish avenues for crossborder trade and business partnershipsIndiGo has earlier operated flights to China and already has several arrangements in place The past experience and familiarity with local partners will help us resume these flights smoothly the airline said in a statementThe announcement comes shortly after the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that India and China would restart direct flights between designated cities this monthThere have been no direct passenger flights between the two countries since 2020 even though China remains Indias biggest bilateral trade partnerThe move also follows recent diplomatic engagements between the two neighbours Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited China last month for the first time in seven years to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation SCO summitDuring the visit PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed strengthening trade ties and agreed that India and China should act as development partners not rivalsWhile the leaders underlined the importance of peace and stability along the disputed border PM Modi also raised Indias concerns over the widening trade deficit with China which currently stands at nearly 992 billionAviation and trade experts believe the resumption of flights will help businesses on both sides by improving connectivity and will also support cultural and tourism exchanges signalling a cautious easing of tensions between New Delhi and Beijing IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indigo-to-resume-flights-between-india-and-china-after-five-years-641207.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-calls-government-shutdown-unprecedented-opportunity-to-fire-federal-workers-641214.html Washington Oct 2 US President Donald Trump has reiterated his threat to fire more federal workers a day after the countrys government was shut down In a post on Truth Social Trump called the shutdown an unprecedented opportunity and announced that he is meeting Russell Vought the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to discuss cuts in federal agenciesI have a meeting today with Russ Vought he of PROJECT 2025 Fame to determine which of the many Democrat Agencies most of which are a political SCAM he recommends to be cut and whether or not those cuts will be temporary or permanent I cant believe the Radical Left Democrats gave me this unprecedented opportunity They are not stupid people so maybe this is their way of wanting to quietly and quickly MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN he postedTrumps statement comes a day after the White House said that the federal job layoffs are imminent as a consequence of the government shutdownUnfortunately because the Democrats shut down the government the President has directed his cabinet and the Office of Management and Budget is working with agencies across the board to identify where cuts can be made And we believe that layoffs are imminent she saidVice President J D Vance also took the podium on Wednesday and blamed Democrats for the situationIf this thing drags on for another few days or God forbid another few weeks we are going to have to lay people off Were going to have to save money in some places so the essential services dont get turned off in other places he assertedHouse Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries countered the firing threat calling the government a jobkilling administrationThese are all things that the Trump administration has been doing since January 20 the mass firings of federal workers The Trump administration has been killing jobs This is a jobkilling administration he addedThe Republicans have accused Democrats of demanding healthcare subsidies for illegal immigrants which the Democrats reject as a lie peddled by the Trump administrationDemocrats say they are asking to reverse the healthcare cuts for American citizens in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this yearAbout 750000 federal workers have been furloughed while many others have been forced to work without payEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control continue to function for now while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affected soonIf the shutdown is extended over a long period air travel could face challenges as many of those workers would be forced to work without pay and may not report for dutyWhile the Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives they are eight votes short in the Senate as the funding bill requires 60 votes to passIt is the first US government shutdown in seven years with the last one also happening under Trump 10 It lasted for 35 days the longest in the US history IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-calls-government-shutdown-unprecedented-opportunity-to-fire-federal-workers-641214.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-deploys-digital-technology-to-spy-on-citizens-641217.html New Delhi Oct 2 Pakistani authorities are monitoring more than 4 million citizens using advanced digital tools purchased from foreign private companies such as Chinas Geedge Network according to a recent report by Amnesty International titled Shadow of Control Censorship and Mass Surveillance in Pakistan At the core of Pakistans surveillance operation are two powerful systems the Web Monitoring System WMS 20 which acts as a national firewall that can block internet access virtual private networks VPNs and specific websites and the Lawful Intercept Management System LIMS a mass surveillance platform that allows authorities to eavesdrop on phone calls text messages internet activities and even geolocation data through domestic telecommunications providersLIMS is supported by technology primarily supplied by a German company Utimaco and an Emirati company Datafusion Utimacos LIMS enables authorities to analyse subscriber data from telecommunications companies while the processed information is accessible through Datafusions Monitoring Centre Next GenerationThe methods may have changed but Pakistan actually began surveilling its citizens decades ago In the 1990s such activities resulted in the rise and fall of governments and Pakistans surveillance has continued to grow over time according to a report in The Diplomat by Osama AhmadNighat Dad the founder and executive director of Digital Rights Foundation told The Diplomat Available research and reports suggest that Pakistan has developed significant surveillance capabilities over the past decadeIn 1997 the Supreme Court ruled that state surveillance was illegal holding it to be a breach of Article 14 of the Constitution which secures the right to privacyDespite the legal and institutional safeguards and Pakistans international commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ICCPR and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights UDHR to prevent arbitrary interference the absence of a comprehensive data protection law and regulation of surveillance technologies leaves citizens vulnerable to harassment abuse and continuous monitoring undermining the effectiveness of existing protections said DadPakistani authorities defend their breach of the digital rights of citizens citing security concerns or morality issues However there are increasing fears that these actions are primarily aimed at suppressing dissentWhen Pakistan banned X in February 2024 and users accessed the social media site through virtual private networks VPNs the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority developed a plan to regulate VPNs by requiring them to be registered The Council of Islamic Ideology declared the usage of VPNs unIslamic As an excuse the government claimed that the crackdown on VPNs came as a result of their misuse by militant groups Perhaps more relevantly X was being used at that time to organise protests by individuals associated with Pakistan TehreekeInsaf PTI the political party of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan the report statesThe authorities have also repeatedly turned their attention to TikTok which they believe promotes immorality Recently a lawmaker in the Punjab Assembly submitted a resolution to permanently ban the app on moral groundsBeyond blanket banning of social media platforms Pakistans authorities also digitally spy on Pakistanis Journalists activists and politicians are believed to be among the primary targets of mass surveillance in Pakistan the report statesAt times private video and audio recordings of opposition politicians are leaked to weaken them and gain an advantage This unethical tactic has long been prevalent in Pakistani politicsThough surveillance in Pakistan is purported to be for national security concerns it is essentially to silence dissent across the country Usama Khilji director of Bolo Bhi told The Diplomat Most of the victims of surveillance are political oppositions journalists or activists working on human rights or other critical social issuesWhile the military often faces criticism for mass surveillance and similar practices other institutions such as the judiciary and Parliament also share responsibility for this unchecked behaviour as they fail to prevent the mandated authorities from carrying out such operationsThe state institutions are equally complicit in this extensive surveillance because illegal surveillance happens without the consent of the individual and without a warrant from the court Khilji saidWhile the findings of Amnesty International are alarming they are consistent with Pakistans long history of digital repression From the blockade of X formerly Twitter to internet disruptions amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act PECA and other restrictive measures the state has repeatedly curtailed digital rights and free expression the report added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-deploys-digital-technology-to-spy-on-citizens-641217.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/sri-lanka-needs-a-chief-negotiator-to-move-india-trade-pact-forward-641231.html New Delhi Oct 2 As US reciprocal tariffs begin to jolt nations Sri Lanka needs to initiate fresh trade negotiations with India and the government must consider appointing a Chief Negotiator to resolve the trust deficit if any according to a new report Sri Lanka is at a critical juncture with its prospects for 2026 clouded by external shocks Economic growth is forecast to slow to 33 per cent as the United States imposes a 20 per cent tariff on key Sri Lankan exports according to an article in Eurasia ReviewKeeping this in mind Sri Lanka has requested India to expand its export quota under the IndoLanka Free Trade Agreement ISFTA which was signed 25 years agoMeanwhile India has continually advised Colombo to update the existing free trade agreement to address foreseeable issuesAt this stage the Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement ETCA has become a key topic of discussion However progress on improving the IndiaSri Lanka Free Trade Agreement ISFTA has stalled despite numerous rounds of talks under various governments aimed at expanding trade and investment with India according to the report by A Jathindra a Sri Lankanbased independent political analystIndia remains interested in moving forwardSanthos Jha Indias High Commissioner to Sri Lanka has said that India is not pushing ETCA but is waiting for Sri Lanka to wake up and realise it is indeed beneficialAccording to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra If we can secure favourable terms we are open to the agreement If not we will not sign it We are committed to safeguarding the nations economic sovereigntyWhen there is one stronger nation and one weaker nation we ought to understand that there is a propensity for the stronger nation to dominate the weaker nation Therefore we must proceed with caution he notedAccording to the report the challenge therefore is how Colombo can strategically manage relationships with stronger nations to serve its own interests IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/sri-lanka-needs-a-chief-negotiator-to-move-india-trade-pact-forward-641231.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 01:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/days-after-talks-us-top-trade-official-calls-indias-approach-pragmatic-641234.html Washington Oct 3 The United States Trade Representative USTR Jamieson Greer has called Indias approach in trade negotiations pragmatic and said the two sides are trying to negotiate a deal During a fireside chat at the Economic Club of New York Greer spoke about the continuing negotiations with IndiaThe Indians are being pragmatic We have actually been having conversations with the Indians from day one of the administration on the trade side of the ledger So when you talk about a 50 per cent tariff on India half of that 25 per cent is really the traderelated Its the reciprocal tariff Its where were trying to negotiate a deal he addedThe statement comes days after Greer met Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal in New York on September 22Sources told IANS that the meeting focused on addressing key sticking points and both sides remain hopeful of reaching an interim understanding soonA statement by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry also said that the Indian delegation had constructive meetings with the US government on various aspects of the dealBoth sides exchanged views on possible contours of the deal and it was decided to continue the engagements with a view to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement it addedGreer also spoke about additional 25 per cent tariffs on India for purchasing Russian oil arguing that the US is not trying to dictate terms to a sovereign nationIndia has not always bought so much Russian oil Its not like this is some bedrock part of the Indian economy Obviously they are a sovereign country Were not trying to dictate other countries who they can have relations with and who they cant he addedGreer also believed that New Delhi understands the US objective of ending the war in Ukraine and is already diversifying its energy needsI think they get it I can already see them starting to diversify he saidHe also highlighted that India is not alone in buying Russian oil and the Trump administration has pressed the Europeans and the Chinese to halt their purchaseWe have already talked to our European allies some of whom are still buying Russian oil to this day which is crazy So its not just the Indians that were talking to about this and we talked to the Chinese about it too And we just need to end this war he emphasisedLast week External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the UN General AssemblyAfter the talks Rubio said that India is of critical value to his country and welcomed the ongoing interaction in tradeA day after the meeting with Jaishankar Rubio indicated that the Trump administration may be willing to fix the additional 25 per cent tariffs imposed on India over its purchases of Russian oilIn an interview with NBC News Rubio said We have already seen the measures we have taken with regards to India although thats something we hope we can fixRubio blamed the European countries for not doing enough to end the conflict in UkraineLast week the Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also reiterated Indias stand on the purchase of Russian energy saying that there cannot be any double standard in the matter and highlighted the Trump administrations statements that called on the EU NATO and G7 countries to stop buying Russian oil and gas IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/days-after-talks-us-top-trade-official-calls-indias-approach-pragmatic-641234.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indias-trade-stance-with-us-good-disciplined-ex-us-official--641235.html Washington Oct 3 Raymond Vickery a former US Assistant Secretary of Commerce for trade development has lauded Indias measured approach to the recent tensions with the United States In an exclusive interview with IANS in Washington Vickery who is a Senior Associate Chair on India and Emerging Asia Economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies CSIS termed Indias stance as good and disciplinedTo the credit of those policymakers from Prime Minister Modi External Affairs Minister Jaishankar right on down the discipline in the message has been very laudable Instead of just throwing up their hands and saying you guys are off the charts and we are not going to have anything to do with you its been a good and disciplined approach he addedOn Tuesday the United States Trade Representative USTR Jamieson Greer also termed Indias position in trade negotiations as pragmatic and said the two sides are trying to negotiate a dealDuring a fireside chat at the Economic Club of New York on Tuesday Greer spoke about the continuing negotiations with IndiaThe Indians are being pragmatic We have actually been having conversations with the Indians from day one of the administration on the trade side of the ledger So when you talk about a 50 per cent tariff on India half of that 25 per cent is really the traderelated Its the reciprocal tariff Its where were trying to negotiate a deal he addedVickery who is also a Senior Advisor at Albright Stonebridge Group argued that the last nine months of the Trump administration have thrown the bilateral ties backwardThis has been in the last eight nine months really a disaster for the upward slope of international relations between the US and India and has thrown us backward he notedThe former senior commerce department official highlighted IndiaUS engagement in multiple fields such as technology military health and energy but warned that Trumps transactional approach could harm cooperation in other fieldsIf this transactional approach continues then its going to harm the engagement between the US and India across the board he saidVickery also commented on the Indian Prime Ministers visit to China in August to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation SCO Summit as evidence of New Delhi seeking other partnersIndia has obviously looked for other partners and one of those is Russia even looking to China and to BRICS These tariffs in the sledgehammer approach the transactional approach really do drive India toward China toward Russia and toward finding any alternatives to the US relationshipOn the Trump administrations ambivalence about its China strategy Vickery argued that the lack of clarity could be advantageous to India but only in the near termIt plays to Indias advantage in the sense that both India and China are in the same boat In the longer run India has a great problem in regard to ChinaHe believed that a possible USChina grand bargain in future could damage Indias strategic interestsIts entirely conceivable that in order to make a grand bargain between the United States and China the US will throw in some Indian security interests under the bus and Im thinking particularly of freedom of the seas in regard to regard to shipping he addedHowever Vickery hoped that New Delhi would take the opportunity to fill the power vacuum created by the America First approach of the Trump administrationI would hope that India would see the power vacuum and the diplomatic vacuum which has been created by this administration and step up in accordance with Indian values of democracy in terms of cooperation on economic development and I would hope that India might move toward a broader view of its role he concluded IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indias-trade-stance-with-us-good-disciplined-ex-us-official--641235.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/kremlin-spokesman-slams-europe-for-fueling-ukraine-conflict-says-russia-open-to-talks-641236.html Moscow Oct 3 European countries are doing everything in their power to encourage Kyiv to continue the war Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said From our perspective the key factor is the stance of European countries they are sparing no effort to encourage the Kiev regime to keep fighting and by doing so they are effectively preventing the Kiev regime from engaging in negotiations Peskov said on Thursday adding that Europes role in escalating the war situation with Russia has been maximisedHe noted that Kyiv would have acted differently if it had not been emboldened by Europe Xinhua news agency reportedThe spokesman added that Europe is advocating for the construction of new walls though history has long proven the absurdity of such actionsThey European countries are trying to portray Russia as an evil force That is why they plan to drastically increase their military spending Peskov emphasisedPeskov stated that Europe is obstructing efforts to reach a peaceful settlement in UkraineHe said that US President Donald Trumps peace efforts to resolve the Ukraine situation have hit a wall with European militarism adding that such efforts are nonetheless important Washington maintains the political will to work toward bringing the situation in Ukraine into a political and diplomatic framework and Russia takes this fact into account he saidPeskov noted that Russia is now working to safeguard the interests of future generations adding that the country will continue its special military operation while remaining open to negotiationsIn August Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in the US state of Alaska with progress made but no deal reached on the Ukraine crisisPeskov said Sunday that Putin is willing to meet with Trump in Moscow but the decision rests with the US side IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/kremlin-spokesman-slams-europe-for-fueling-ukraine-conflict-says-russia-open-to-talks-641236.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/venezuela-slams-illegal-incursion-of-us-aircraft-641237.html Caracas Oct 3 Venezuelas defence and foreign ministries denounced the illegal incursion of US combat aircraft The aircraft were detected on October 2 2025 approximately 75 kilometers from our coasts said a statement by Foreign Minister Yvan Gil on social mediaFor Venezuela the move constitutes a provocation that threatens national sovereignty and violates international law and the Convention on International Civil Aviation he saidThe maneuver put at risk the safety of aviation in the Caribbean Sea the official said adding that other incursions were detected Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez denounced the deployment of US aircraft and the military harassment the military threat of the US government against the people of Venezuela who want peace work and happinessPadrino said Thursday that Venezuelas air defence system detected at least five US aircraft flying at 400 knots at 35000 feet In a joint statement with the Foreign Affairs Ministry the Defense Ministry later said the incursion of the foreign planes happened Thursday 75 kilometers from the Venezuelan coast A plane from Colombias Avianca airline also witnessed the sorties according to the authoritiesPadrino Lopez warned Washington against military attacks against the South American nation Dont make that mistake he saidThe construction of the suspected flyovers marks the latest escalation in tensions between the two nations following the deployment of US warships to the southern Caribbean officially aimed at curbing cocaine trafficking In recent weeks US strikes on small boats allegedly involved in smuggling drugs from Venezuela have resulted in at least 14 deaths IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/venezuela-slams-illegal-incursion-of-us-aircraft-641237.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/f1-singapore-gp-deemed-heat-hazard-amid-soaring-humidity-641239.html Singapore Oct 3 Formula 1s governing body has classified this weekends Singapore Grand Prix as a heat hazard race for the first time as soaring temperatures and high humidity threaten to push drivers to their physical limits The ruling by the FIA was triggered by forecasts of 31 degrees Celsius and oppressive humidity in the tropical citystate Under the regulation teams must equip their cars with drivercooling vests although using them is optional The measure ensures that competitors who decline to wear the vests do not gain a performance edge from a lighter carIt is the first time the FIA has invoked the new heathazard provision introduced after the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix left several drivers requiring medical treatment Esteban Ocon vomited in his helmet during that race and Williams Logan Sargeant was forced to retire after succumbing to the conditionsMercedes driver George Russell a director of the Grand Prix Drivers Association GPDA said he welcomed the concept after testing the vest earlier this yearNot everybody finds the top comfortable but some find it more comfortable than others Russell saidWhen youre racing in 90 per cent humidity and the cockpit gets close to 60C its a bit of a sauna inside the car so I think we all welcome itWilliams driver Carlos Sainz also a GPDA director called the FIAs ruling fairOnly hot is not too bad for us Humid on its own is not too bad But when its 28 30 degrees plus humidity thats when it gets to Singapore levels and its tough Sainz saidSingapore has long had a reputation as the most demanding race on the calendar The event runs close to Formula 1s twohour limit and features a bumpy street layout under floodlights in stifling conditionsThe cooling system consists of a fireproof vest fitted with tubes through which chilled liquid is pumped Cockpit temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius and drivers wear multiple fireproof layers in addition to helmets and glovesThe FIA requires the system to last a full race distance though teams admit reliability varies Some designs fail after as little as 20 minutes with the liquid warming up and making the driver hotter than without the vestAston Martins Fernando Alonso said the device was effective but came with drawbacks Xinhua news agency reportedThe shirt is a little bit thicker with the system on it so its less comfortable Alonso said Its a tradeoff less comfy when you drive it but a little bit cooler IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/f1-singapore-gp-deemed-heat-hazard-amid-soaring-humidity-641239.html Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-plans-to-fire-federal-workers-as-shutdown-begins-641069.html Washington Oct 2 The White House has stated that federal job layoffs are imminent as a consequence of the government shutdown that began on October 1 In a press conference on Wednesday local time the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt blamed Democrats for the impending firings of federal workers saying the opposition party has put us into this positionUnfortunately because the Democrats shut down the government the President has directed his cabinet and the Office of Management and Budget is working with agencies across the board to identify where cuts can be made And we believe that layoffs are imminent she addedVice President JD Vance also took the podium and blamed Democrats for the situationIf this thing drags on for another few days or God forbid another few weeks we are going to have to lay people off Were going to have to save money in some places so the essential services dont get turned off in other places he assertedHouse Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries countered the firing threat calling the government a jobkilling administrationThese are all things that the Trump administration has been doing since January 20 the mass firings of federal workers The Trump administration has been killing jobs This is a jobkilling administration he addedThe Republicans have accused Democrats of demanding healthcare subsidies for illegal immigrants which the Democrats reject as a lie peddled by the Trump administrationDemocrats say they are asking to reverse the healthcare cuts for American citizens in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this yearRepublicans assert they would not agree to Democrats demands and had proposed to extend funding until November 21While the Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives they are eight votes short in the Senate as the funding bill requires 60 votes to passIt is the first US government shutdown in seven years as the last one happened under Trump 10 and lasted for 35 days the longest in historyEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control continue to function while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affectedIf the shutdown is extended over a long period air travel could face challenges as many of those workers would be forced to work without pay and may not report for duty IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-plans-to-fire-federal-workers-as-shutdown-begins-641069.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/gaza-fires-rockets-toward-israel-amid-yom-kippur-observance-641070.html Tel Aviv Oct 2 Five rockets were launched from the northern Gaza Strip toward Ashdod a coastal city in southern Israel the Israel Defense Forces IDF said According to the Israeli army four of the rockets were successfully intercepted by its air defence system and one fell in open terrain causing no casualtiesThe barrage came on Wednesday evening local time as Israel was observing Yom Kippur the holiest day on the Jewish calendar Israel came to a standstill on Wednesday at sunset as the Day of Atonement began Stores restaurants cinemas and other public venues remain closed until Thursday nightfall Radio and television stations have stopped broadcasting public transport is out of service and private cars are largely unused except for medical emergencies reports Xinhua news agencyMeanwhile Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military is completing the capture of the Netzarim Corridor a buffer zone in central Gaza aimed at isolating Gaza City and northern Gaza from the rest of the enclave Katz added that this will tighten the siege around Gaza City and all those leaving from the south will be required to pass through IDF checkpointsThe military is in these hours completing the capture of the Netzarim Corridor a military buffer zone in central Gaza aimed at isolating Gaza City and northern Gaza from the rest of the enclave Katz said in a statementThis is the last chance for Gaza residents who are interested in moving south and leaving Hamas terrorists isolated in Gaza City itself in the face of IDF activity that continues at full strength he warned Those who remain in Gaza will be terrorists and supporters of terrorEarlier in the day the IDF said it had launched an extensive ground operation in Gaza City and had killed several militants posing an immediate threat in northern Gaza apart from targeting multiple military structures and infrastructure facilities in the areaMeanwhile Israeli army spokesman Avichai Adraee announced on social media platform X earlier in the day that the AlRasheed coastal road the main route linking southern and northern Gaza would be closed from noon allowing only southward movement for those still in Gaza CityPalestines official news agency WAFA reported that 23 Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire and shelling across Gaza on Wednesday morning whereas Gazabased health authorities said Israels military campaign has killed 66148 Palestinians and injured 168716 others since October 7 2023In a separate development Israels national emergency service Magen David Adom and the IDF said two rockets were launched on Wednesday from northern Gaza towards southern Israel and then intercepted by the Israeli air defence with no casualties reportedFollowing the launch air defence sirens were activated in three Israeli villages near the Gaza border sending local residents to shelters IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/gaza-fires-rockets-toward-israel-amid-yom-kippur-observance-641070.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/african-executives-push-for-tourism-digitisation-to-spur-growth-641089.html Nairobi Oct 2 Tourism players across Africa should leverage digital tools to transform the sector boosting its growth and competitiveness senior officials said at the 15th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo underway in Nairobi the Kenyan capital According to the executives emerging technologies such as big data Internet of Things and artificial intelligence AI have revolutionised the tourism and travel sector delivering benefits for investors and clientsClara Chinwe Okoro founder and chief operating officer of My Beautiful Africa a travel technology company based in Nigeria said Africa is gradually becoming a destination for techsavvy tourists necessitating the urgency to automate the sector reports Xinhua news agencyConnectivity is not only easing bookings but also improving travellers experience at various destinations across the continent We can also leverage digital tools to showcase our scenic attractions Okoro saidKalkidan Mulugeta cofounder of ClearSkies Technology a technology firm based in Ethiopia stressed that digital tools have the potential to make Africas tourism more resilient sustainable and globally competitiveMulugeta urged investors to utilise cyberspace to market new products automate booking and payment systems while prioritising data security for travellersHe added that the adoption of new technologies such as drones and AI will enable tourism stakeholders to reduce their carbon footprint curb waste and build resilient brandsFrancis Muriithi group head of technology governance and assurance at Kenya Commercial Bank Group said investors in Africas tourism sector can leverage advanced digital tools to gain insight into travellers preferencesMuriithi called for scaling up digital payments across the continent alongside the rollout of microinsurance products to shield the sector from weatherrelated shocksThe Magical Kenya Travel Expo which runs until Friday brings together over 6500 delegates from 40 countries across the globe including senior policymakers and investors in the tourism sectorThe threeday event under the theme Magical Kenya Unlocking Africas Potential through Sustainable Tourism features panel discussions business matchmaking and exhibitions IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/african-executives-push-for-tourism-digitisation-to-spur-growth-641089.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/isi-cultivates-hamas-as-proxy-against-india-while-deceiving-us-on-gaza-peace-641096.html New Delhi Oct 2 The White House released a 20point plan following discussions between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a Gaza peace plan The plan released on Monday said that Hamas should release hostages and leave power in Gaza and also disarmIn the midst of these developments there were reports that Pakistan would be sending in troops to Gaza as part of a Muslim nations peacekeeping force This puts the spotlight on the double standards by Pakistan which has been actively training Hamas on its soilRecently many Hamas leaders were seen sharing the stage in Pakistan along with of the LashkareTaiba and JaisheMohammad when the socalled Kashmir Solidarity Day was observedFor several months now Hamas have been in Pakistan They have been attending training camps that are run by the LeT and JeMIntelligence Bureau officials said that the decision to train Hamas by members of the Pakistan Army and ISI is not getting them ready for a battle against IsraelAt this moment Pakistan would not try to meddle in Palestine because they are aware of what the stand of the US is on the issueThe ISI has taken in Hamas and trained them so that they can be used in Balochistan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa India and BangladeshThe Pakistan Army is having a hard time dealing with the Balochistan Liberation Army BLA and TehreekeTaliban TTPThe army has faced huge and embarrassing losses at the hands of these outfits and hence is looking for backing from the HamasRoping in the LeT or JeM to fight against the TTP and BLA is not an optionMany cadres of these outfits share a good rapport with the Taliban and hence would not want to indulge in a battle especially against the TTPFurther the ISI wants the LeT and JeM to be engaged in Jammu and Kashmir and not elsewhere While all these outfits are training together the jurisdiction has been drawn by the ISIHamas would not be allowed to battle in Jammu and Kashmir and would instead focus on taking on the BLA and TTPThe ISI also has plans to deploy Hamas members in Bangladesh so that they can carry out strikes in the northeastern statesTerror groups in Bangladesh such as the HarkatulJihadi Islami HuJI and JamaatulMujahideen Bangladesh JuMB are capable of carrying out strikes but their cadres are not battlehardened like HamasThe presence of Hamas in Pakistan is not a new development Its leaders have been visiting Pakistan since 2024Since then its leaders have been addressing conferences relating to both Israel and KashmirIntelligence reports also state that Hamas leaders at the behest of the ISI have also visited Bangladesh on numerous occasions The primary intention is to destabilise India and the ISI is trying to take advantage of the capabilities that Hamas has It would want Hamas to launch rocket attacks on India like it did with IsraelHamas has displayed such capabilities and hence the ISI is cultivating it as a major asset against IndiaAn official said that this is typical of Pakistan to backstab allies On one hand Pakistan has been tomtomming about a newfound ally in the US and on the other hand it harbours a terror group that works against Washingtons interests In the aftermath of the 911 attacks Pakistan joined the war against terror along with the United StatesHowever Osama Bin Laden the mastermind of the deadly attacks whom the US was looking for was given refuge in Pakistan IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/isi-cultivates-hamas-as-proxy-against-india-while-deceiving-us-on-gaza-peace-641096.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-ex-prez-yoon-absent-from-insurrection-trial-for-13th-consecutive-session-641101.html Seoul Oct 2 Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was absent from his insurrection trial for the 13th consecutive session on Thursday the first time the hearing was to be broadcast online The bench at the Seoul Central District Court acknowledged Yoons continued absence from the trial and proceeded with the hearing under a law that allows it in the event a jailed defendant cannot be brought in by forceIt also explained the reasons for accepting a request by special counsel Cho Eunsuks team to broadcast the hearing saying it considered the gravity of the case and the peoples right to knowOn the reasons for limiting the broadcast to up to the beginning of witness questioning the bench said it considered the witnesses personal and portrait rights as well as concerns that their testimony could influence the testimony of other witnessesYoon who has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power through his shortlived imposition of martial law in December has not attended the proceedings since being placed under arrest in JulyThe special counsel team requested the court take firm measures such as by issuing a warrant to bring him in by force noting the ousted former president did appear at the first hearing of a new trial on martial lawrelated charges last week Yonhap news agency reportedYoons lawyers protested however that his absence has been caused in part by health issues as well as by unconstitutional elements in the trialEarlier in the day a Seoul court rejected former President Yoon Suk Yeols request to be released on bail citing concerns of destruction of evidenceThe Seoul Central District Court made the decision after Yoon filed for bail last month citing his right to defend himself and issues with his healthThe court said there were concerns the defendant could destroy evidence and that it did not find a considerable reason to grant his bail requestYoon has been in custody since July when special counsel Cho Eunsuks team placed him under arrest a second time on charges related to his failed imposition of martial law in DecemberDuring his bail hearing last week Yoon spoke for 18 minutes arguing that being in detention makes it difficult to attend his trials and comply with questioning by investigatorsThe special counsel team argued for maintaining his arrest citing concerns of destruction of evidence and the political impact his potential release could have on its investigation and his trialsYoon who is standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection through his failed martial law attempt is being tried additionally on charges of violating the rights of Cabinet members revising the martial law proclamation and obstructing his detention by investigators in January IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-ex-prez-yoon-absent-from-insurrection-trial-for-13th-consecutive-session-641101.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pm-modis-warning-on-illegal-immigration-rings-true-as-isi-plots-rohingya-infiltration-into-india-641104.html New Delhi Oct 2 Prime Minister Narendra Modi while speaking at an event to commemorate the RSS centenary celebrations once again spoke about the dangers of illegal immigration He had made the same point during his Independence Day address The Prime Minister repeatedly flagging the issue only shows how dangerous illegal immigration into the country is The agencies have long flagged the issue stating that illegal immigration is a planned attempt to cause demographic changes and ensure the commission of crimes in IndiaThe ISI Pakistan along with the DGFI Bangladesh have long been planning to increase the scale of illegal immigrants into India While a number of illegal immigrants who come into India are from Bangladesh the two agencies have now decided to increase the number of Rohingyas from Myanmar who would enter India illegallyThe ISI and DGFI have roped in the HarkatulJihadi Islami LashkareTaiba and the Aqa Mul Mujahideen AMM to execute this plan The three terror groups are looking to take advantage of the ongoing situation in Myanmar to rope in the RohingyasMany of those who have been displaced due to the violence are the potential targets Security officials say that attempts are being made to gather as many as possible in Bangladesh before infiltration attempts are madeWhile India is already battling the influx of Bangladeshi illegal immigrants adding the Rohingyas to the mix would only stress the system further Another plan that has been set in motion is to use the Rohingyas who have taken refuge in Bangladesh to carry out crossborder attacks against IndiaOfficials say that Dhaka cannot afford to be complicit in such a situation The situation could backfire and the radicalised Rohingyas could unleash terror in Bangladesh also There is also the risk of crimes rising in a country that is seeing neverending violence and massscale radicalisation However Indian agencies doubt that Bangladesh would do much considering that the ISI is involvedSince Muhammad Yunus was made caretaker of the interim government with the blessings of the JamaateIslami he has cosied up to PakistanWith the Jamaat calling the shots it is unlikely that the Bangladesh administration would act on this problem that threatens Indias national security The number of camps for Rohingya has risen since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina Camps to train the Rohingyas have come up at Bagerha Coxs Bazar and Mymensingh These camps were set up following a meeting of the ISI officials along with Hafiz Saeed and AMM commander Abu Aman Jununi The AMM commander is originally from Myanmar but trained in Pakistan His training is solely for the purpose of roping in Rohingyas and then infiltrating them into India as well as carrying out terror strikesIn addition to stepping up security India has also put into effect the new Immigration and Foreigners Act The act has strict rules on passports visas and immigration The Union Home Ministry notified the rules of the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 on September 1During the debate on the bill Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the government was ready to welcome those who wished to come to India for purposes of tourism education business and healthcareHe however stressed that India is not a dharmashala Back in 2023 investigations had revealed that some brokers in Tripura had been facilitating the infiltration of Rohingya refugeesThey would come into India by using Assam as a corridor The agencies have been told by the Centre to crack down on such brokers and touts so that the problem can be minimised as much as possible IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pm-modis-warning-on-illegal-immigration-rings-true-as-isi-plots-rohingya-infiltration-into-india-641104.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/two-detained-in-afghanistan-after-police-discovers-drugs-641109.html Kabul Oct 2 Police have discovered illegal drugs of opium poppy in the western Afghanistan Herat province and took into custody two persons on charges of involvement in the drug business provincial police spokesman Ghulam Nabi Babizada said on Thursday The alleged drug smugglers were busy selling 20 kg of opium poppy when police arrested them redhanded the official said Xinhua News Agency reportedBoth the arrested persons have been taken into police custody for investigation the official further saidPolice wont allow anyone to produce or smuggle illegal drugs elsewhere in the province the official assertedOn September 24 a provincial police office said police had discovered and destroyed two drug processing labs in southern Afghanistans Uruzgan provinceActing on a tipoff the counternarcotics police raided specific places in Charchino and Chori districts and destroyed two drug processing labs the statement saidPolice also discovered and set on fire more than 3 tonnes of different kinds of illegal objects used in manufacturing heroin the statement saidPolice also took into custody three individuals on charges of involvement in the drug business and after preliminary investigations handed them over to the judiciary the statement addedEarlier in the drive against illegal drugs police discovered 210 kg of opium poppy in the northern Baghlan and eastern Ghazni provinces and arrested four alleged drug smugglersOn September 16 police unearthed a drug processing lab in Afghanistans Badakhshan province and detained five individuals a spokesman for the provincial police office Ehsanullah Kamgar saidActing on a tipoff the counternarcotics police raided a place in Darayem district Monday morning and discovered the drug processing lab along with 170 kg of processed opium poppy which was ready to turn into heroin the official said adding that five persons were arrested from the siteThe Afghan government has intensified its nationwide campaign against narcotics targeting traffickers cultivators and production networks with a commitment to eradicate poppy farming and heroin manufacturing IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/two-detained-in-afghanistan-after-police-discovers-drugs-641109.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/govt-issues-notices-to-25-offshore-crypto-exchanges-for-breaking-anti-money-laundering-rules-641112.html New Delhi Oct 2 The Financial Intelligence Unit of India FIUIND has sent notices to 25 offshore virtual digital asset VDA service providers for allegedly failing to follow Indias antimoney laundering laws according to a Finance Ministry statement The notices were issued under Section 13 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLAThis section allows authorities to launch investigations check company records verify customer details and demand reports on suspicious transactionsCompanies that violate the rules could face fines of up to Rs 1 lakh for each breachAmong the 25 offshore firms served notices are CoinW of Singapore BTCC of the UK Changelly of Hong Kong and Paxful of the USOther names include Huione of Cambodia CEXIO of the US and the UK LBank of the British Virgin Islands PrimeXBT of Saint Lucia Coinex of Hong Kong Remitano of Singapore Poloniex of Boston BitMex of Seychelles and LCX of LiechtensteinThe FIUIND has also issued separate notices under the Information Technology Act 2000 asking for the removal of apps and websites that were operating in India without proper registration under PMLAFIUIndia which was set up in 2004 is the main agency responsible for collecting and analyzing information about suspicious financial transactionsSo far 50 VDA service providers have registered with FIUIND However several offshore firms continue to operate in India without registering which keeps them outside the antimoney laundering and counterfinancing of terrorism AMLCFT frameworkThe government made it clear that all VDA service providers serving Indian users whether based in India or abroad must register with FIUIND and follow PMLA rulesThese rules apply to companies engaged in activities like cryptotofiat exchanges transfer of virtual assets safekeeping of digital assets or any services giving control over such assetsRegistration and compliance are mandatory even if the companies do not have a physical presence in IndiaThe Finance Ministry also warned users that crypto products and nonfungible tokens NFTs are currently unregulated and carry high risksIt said there is no regulatory protection if investors suffer losses from such transactions IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/govt-issues-notices-to-25-offshore-crypto-exchanges-for-breaking-anti-money-laundering-rules-641112.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-two-regional-jets-collide-on-taxiway-at-laguardia-airport-one-injured-641131.html Washington Oct 2 One person was injured after two regional Delta jets carrying passengers collided on the taxiway at LaGuardia Airport in New York on Wednesday night local time local media reported citing authorities According to the CBS News Delta Air Lines in a statement said that a lowspeed collision occurred between Endeavor Air Flight 5047 arriving from Charlotte North Carolina and Endeavor Flight 5155 which was scheduled to depart for Roanoke Virginia Endeavor is a Delta subsidiary The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said in its own statement that the crash occurred just before 10 pm Eastern Time According to the airline preliminary information indicates that the wing of Flight 5155 made contact with the fuselage of Flight 5047 The airline said that a flight attendant sustained a minor injury and was treated by EMTs at the scene The injured person was taken to a hospital the Port Authority said the report mentioned Flight 5047 had arrived from North Carolinas Charlotte when the wing of flight 5155 preparing to take off for Virginias Roanoke collided with the nose of their aircraft the CNN reported We have two CRJs on taxiway M that collided the pilot of flight 5047 radioed the ground controller in audio recorded by the website LiveATCnet Their right wing clipped our nose and the cockpit wind screens the report statedThe pilot of flight 5155 said that one flight attendant injured her knee in the collision as per the air traffic control audio The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey which operates the airport reported that one person was taken to the hospitalThe flight from Charlotte was carrying 57 passengers while the aircraft heading to Roanoke had 28 passengers according to Delta The passengers were taken to the terminal by bus and were being provided hotel rooms and meal the CNN reportedIn a statement the airline said Delta will work with all relevant authorities to review what occurred as safety of our customers and people comes before all else We apologize to our customers for the experience IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-two-regional-jets-collide-on-taxiway-at-laguardia-airport-one-injured-641131.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/australia-measles-alert-issued-for-northern-sydney-641132.html Sydney Oct 2 Health authorities in the Australian state of New South Wales NSW on Thursday issued a measles alert for northern Sydney after being notified of a case who was infectious while visiting several locations NSW Health said that the confirmed case visited five locations in Sydneys northern beaches region including a supermarket restaurant cafe and pharmacist while infectious on September 25 and 27The case was a close contact of a recentlyreported measles case in northern Sydney NSW Health saidAnyone who attended the five locations at the same time as the new case has been advised to monitor for the development of symptoms until midOctoberMichael Staff Director of Public Health for the Northern Sydney Local Health District said that symptoms to monitor for include fever sore eyes and a cough followed days later by a rash that spreads from the head and neck to the rest of the bodyAccording to data from the federal governments National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System NNDSS there had been 130 confirmed cases of measles in Australia so far in 2025 as of Thursday morning more than the previous five years combinedOf the 130 cases 64 were people aged 2034 and another 17 were aged 04Staff said that the alert should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are vaccinated against measles Xinhua news agency reportedMeasles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus It spreads easily when an infected person breathes coughs or sneezes It can cause severe disease complications and even deathMeasles can affect anyone but is most common in childrenMeasles infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body Symptoms include a high fever cough runny nose and a rash all over the bodyBeing vaccinated is the best way to prevent getting sick with measles or spreading it to other people The vaccine is safe and helps your body fight off the virusBefore the introduction of measles vaccine in 1963 and widespread vaccination major epidemics occurred approximately every two to three years and caused an estimated 26 million deaths each yearAn estimated 107 500 people died from measles in 2023 mostly children under the age of five years despite the availability of a safe and costeffective vaccineSymptoms of measles usually begin 1014 days after exposure to the virus A prominent rash is the most visible symptomEarly symptoms usually last 47 days They include Running nose cough red and watery eyes and small white spots inside the cheeksThe rash begins about 718 days after exposure usually on the face and upper neck It spreads over about 3 days eventually to the hands and feet It usually lasts 56 days before fading IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/australia-measles-alert-issued-for-northern-sydney-641132.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/mos-margherita-pays-homage-to-mahatma-gandhi-in-moscow-641163.html Moscow Oct 2 Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita on Thursday paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi by offering floral tributes at his statue in the Ramenki Rayon Park of Moscow on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti The event was attended by local authorities and members of the Indian community celebrating Mahatma Gandhis universal message of truth peace and nonviolence that continues to inspire the worldCommemorating the 156th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi I offered floral tributes at his statue in Ramenki Rayon Park Moscow Gandhijis eternal message of truth nonviolence and peace continues to guide the world towards harmony and justice Margherita posted on XLater Margherita joined students and Indian diaspora in the celebrations of the 156th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at the Embassy of India School Kendriya Vidyalaya in MoscowAddressing students and Indian diaspora on the significance and relevance of Gandhian principles of selfreliance truth and nonviolence in 21st century the MoS further emphasised Governments initiatives such as Swachh Bharat Atmanirbar Bharat and Viksit Bharat rooted in Gandhian principles and their role in Indias growth storySeveral leading Russian government dignitaries Indologists Gandhian scholars local community representatives and Embassy officials also took part in the eventEarlier the MoS interacted with the Indian diaspora in Russia highlighting Indias rapid progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi He also invited them to be part of the countrys growth story appreciating the Indian community for their valuable contributions in enhancing the IndiaRussia relationshipTaking to X Margherita said Honoured to connect with the Indian diaspora in Russia Your energy and contributions are invaluable to strengthening IndiaRussia ties Highlighted Indias rapid progress under the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi and invited all to be part of this growth storyOn Wednesday the MoS inaugurated the Best of India Indian Apparels and Textile Fair in Moscow showcasing the strength of Indias handloom and textile sectorThe fair organised by the Handloom Export Promotion Council HEPC from October 13 aims at boosting Indias exports to Russia deepening cooperation and opening new gateways to the Commonwealth of Independent StatesGuided by the vision of PM Narendra Modi and the dedicated efforts of Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh Indias textile sector is expanding its global footprint strengthening its international competitiveness and showcasing the creativity and excellence of Indian craftsmanship to the world said MargheritaThe MoS is on an official visit to Moscow from October 13 The visit underscores Indias commitment to strengthening trade and cultural ties with Russia and highlights the growing role of Indian textiles and apparel in global markets These engagements will bolster bilateral trade encourage market diversification and enhance peopletopeople linkages between the two countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/mos-margherita-pays-homage-to-mahatma-gandhi-in-moscow-641163.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 18:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-diaspora-world-leaders-pay-rich-tributes-to-mahatma-gandhi-on-gandhi-jayanti-641174.html Helsinki Oct 2 Indian missions all around the world continue to organise events and pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 156th birth anniversary on Thursday Members of Indian diaspora living abroad are also paying their tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Gandhi Jayanti commemorates Mahatma Gandhis lifelong commitment to truth nonviolence and social justice It not only honours his philosophy of peace and ethical living but also serves as the International Day of NonViolence that is observed worldwide to spread the messageIndias Ambassador to Finland Hemant Kotalwar Embassy officials city officials members of Indian community paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi followed by a rendition of Vaishnav Jan In his remarks Kotalwar compared Finnish concept of Sisu to Gandhis teachings that true strength lies in resilience courage and the will to persist and not in forceIn a post on X the Indian Embassy in Finland wrote Commemorating the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Ambassador Hemant Kotalwar along with city officials members of Indian community and Embassy officials paid floral homage to Mahatma Gandhi ji followed by a rendition of Vaishnav Jan a tribute to Gandhijis values of peace truth and nonviolence In his remarks Ambassador compared Finnish concept of Sisu to Gandhijis teachings that true strength lies not in force but in resilience courage amp the will to persist inspiring Indians to challenge the mighty British EmpireIndias Ambassador to Romania Manoj Kumar Mohapatra unveiled Mahatma Gandhis bust at the Embassy Several officials Indian community members and friends of India paid floral tributes at the venueOn Gandhi Jis 156th birth anniversary Amb Manoj Kumar Mohapatra unveiled his bust at Embassy of India in Romania joined by Embassy officials Indian community amp friends of India in offering floral tributes and celebrating his values of truth amp nonviolence the Indian Embassy in Romania posted on XThe Consulate General of India in Edinburgh and Indian diaspora marked Gandhi Jayanti and International Day of NonViolence at Saughton Park in Edinburgh Lord Provost of Edinburgh was present on the occasionThe Consulate General of India Edinburgh along with the Indian diaspora marked Gandhi Jayanti 2025 on the occasion of his 156th birth anniversary amp International Day of Nonviolence at Saughton Park Edinburgh Tributes were paid to Mahatma Gandhis ideals of peace nonviolence amp service values that continue to inspire humanity Special thanks to Lord Provost of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge for gracing the occasion the Consulate General of India in Scotland posted on XThe Indian Embassy in Belarus also celebrated Gandhi Jayanti at the Embassy premises Sharing pictures on social media platform X the Indian Embassy in Belarus wrote Celebrating 156th Gandhi Jayanti at the Embassy premises Ambassador Ashok Kumar and Ambassador Serghei Terentiev from Ministry of Foreign Affairs laid floral tributes inspiring us to live by Gandhis principles A heartfelt bhajan Vaishnav Jan performed by a Belarusian student resonated with the spirit of the day Together lets embrace the values of peace and nonviolenceConsulate General of India in Milan along with the municipality of Turin commemorated Gandhi Jayanti in Turin The Indian community also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi in TurinThe Indian Consulate along with the Municipality of Turin joyously commemorated Gandhi Jayanti on 02 October 2025 at Piazza Cavour 3 Turin Consul Mr Atul Chauhan and Mr Luca Pidello Councilor for Human Rights and Freedom from the Turin Municipality offered floral homage to the bust of Mahatma Gandhi Father of Nation The vibrant Indian community in Turin also participated in the heartfelt tribute Consulate General of India in Milan posted on XIndias Ambassador to Bulgaria Arun Sahu paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 156th birth anniversary In a post on X Sahu wrote Paying floral tribute to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversaryIndias Ambassador to Turkey Muktesh Pardeshi unveiled Mahatma Gandhis bust at the Embassy in Ankara A tree plantation drive and shramdaan were also conducted at the Embassys gardenA Historic moment On the auspicious occasion of the 156th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Ambassador Muktesh Pardeshi unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the premises of the Embassy of India in Ankara Ambassador paid rich tributes to our beloved leader He also recalled the support extended by Mahatma Gandhi to the war of Independence in Turkey Indian Embassy in Turkey posted on XMembers of the Indian Diaspora Turkish Friends and Embassy officials were present during the commemorative ceremony A tree plantation drive and shramdaan were also conducted at the Embassy garden Thus far more than six dozen trees have been planted under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-diaspora-world-leaders-pay-rich-tributes-to-mahatma-gandhi-on-gandhi-jayanti-641174.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 19:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/israel-says-gaza-bound-global-sumud-flotialla-fails-to-breach-naval-blockade-641175.html Tel Aviv Oct 2 The Israeli Foreign Ministry on Thursday announced that none of the vessels of the Gazabound Global Sumud Flotilla have succeeded in entering an active combat zone or managed to breach Israels lawful naval blockade Reiterating the flotillas alleged link to Hamas the Ministry in a post on X said The HamasSumud provocation is over None of the HamasSumud provocation yachts has succeeded in its attempt to enter an active combat zone or breach the lawful naval blockadeThe Ministry confirmed that all the passengers are safe and in good health It added they are making their way safely to Israel from where they will be deported to EuropeOne last vessel of this provocation remains at a distance If it approaches its attempt to enter an active combat zone and breach the blockade will also be prevented the Ministry statedThe Global Sumud Flotilla comprising about 50 civilian vessels and participants from over 40 countries aims to challenge Israels naval blockade imposed since 2007 and deliver food and medical aid to PalestiniansSharing videos on its social media platform earlier in the day the Ministry said that several vessels of the HamasSumud flotilla have been safely stopped and their passengers including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and her friends are being transferred to an Israeli port and are safe and healthyAccording to the Israeli Foreign Ministry the sole purpose of the HamasSumud flotilla is provocation It added that Israel Italy Greece and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem have offered and continue to offer the flotilla a way to deliver any aid they might have to Gaza peacefully but the flotilla refused because they are not interested in aid but in provocationThe Israeli Navy has reached out to the HamasSumud flotilla and asked them to change course Israel has informed the flotilla that it is approaching an active combat zone and violating a lawful naval blockade Israel reiterated the offer to transfer any aid peacefully through safe channels to Gaza the Ministry statedEarlier on Tuesday Israels Foreign Ministry claimed that the official Hamas documents recovered in the Gaza Strip revealed the terror groups direct involvement in the funding and execution of the Sumud flotilla bound for GazaThe Ministry released part of the Hamas documents along with translations and images showing some of the flotillas organisers alongside senior Hamas leaders IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/israel-says-gaza-bound-global-sumud-flotialla-fails-to-breach-naval-blockade-641175.html Thu, 02 Oct 2025 20:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-relief-chief-sees-us-gaza-peace-proposal-opening-possibilities-for-aid-delivery-641035.html United Nations Oct 1 UN relief chief Tom Fletcher recently welcomed US President Donald Trumps Gaza peace proposal for opening new possibilities to deliver largescale desperately needed lifesaving aid We are ready and eager to work in a practical and principled way to seize this moment for peace said Fletcher undersecretarygeneral for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinatorHe said the world bodys teams networks supplies and expertise are in place and ready to be mobilised quickly and efficiently as was done during the previous ceasefire that broke down in midMarch As consistently emphasised it is essential to end all attacks restore public order and facilitate humanitarian access to and throughout Gaza Xinhua news agency reportedFletcher said that eliminating restrictions on the entry of critical items and the work of international nongovernmental organizations remains a key request These steps would allow humanitarians to resume communitybased services at a level that ensures no one is left behindIt is also critical that the private sector is able to operate at a meaningful scale he added noting that humanitarian aid alone cannot meet the full scope of needs in GazaIt will be crucial to ensure that these conditions are sustained along with generous and reliable funding as well as the restoration of decimated facilities and infrastructure said FletcherThe UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs OCHA which Fletcher heads warned that areas across the Gaza Strip especially Gaza City continue to come under heavy Israeli bombardmentThe UN Human Rights Office said that between Wednesday and Sunday Israeli strikes intensified in the northwestern part of Deir alBalah with at least 89 Palestinians reportedly killed in at least a dozen separate incidentsOCHA said the Gaza health authorities reported that 175 people including 35 children have died from starvation and malnutrition since the confirmation of famine in the Gaza governorate in AugustThe UN relief agency for Palestine refugees reported that in Gaza City its teams operate 18 shelters for more than 4000 people although 28 others remain inaccessible or had to be evacuated Only one of the agencys five medical points in Gaza City remains operational said OCHA IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-relief-chief-sees-us-gaza-peace-proposal-opening-possibilities-for-aid-delivery-641035.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-says-us-weighing-actions-against-drug-cartels-coming-by-land-from-venezuela-641037.html Washington Oct 1 US President Donald Trump said that the White House is weighing actions to crack down on drug cartels coming by land from Venezuela Now well look at cartels he told reporters as he left the White House Were going to look very seriously at cartels coming by landHis remarks followed recent US military strikes in international waters in the southern Caribbean targeting boats that the White House alleged were transporting illicit drugs from Venezuela Xinhua news agency reportedAccording to US accounts as many as 17 people aboard three vessels were killed in US strikes this monthThe Trump administration has also deployed warships to the Caribbean The New York Times reported Tuesday that the Pentagon has built up a force of more than 6500 troops in the regionWhile some cocaine leaves South America through Venezuela the country is not a main source of USbound drugs said the report citing a 2020 report from the US Drug Enforcement AdministrationIn recent weeks the US military struck at least three boats from Venezuela allegedly carrying narcotraffickers and drugs that could threaten Americans President Trump said on Truth SocialThe administration has not provided evidence that drugs were on all of those boats But an official in the Dominican Republic alongside one from the US Embassy there did say at a press conference earlier on Sunday that drugs were found in the water after one strike IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-says-us-weighing-actions-against-drug-cartels-coming-by-land-from-venezuela-641037.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/at-least-19-dead-as-67-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-philippines-641038.html Manila Oct 1 At least 19 people were killed and dozens injured as a 69magnitude earthquake hit Cebu province in the central Philippines on Tuesday night local media reported Wednesday Authorities updated the death toll to 19 amid ongoing rescue efforts and fears that the number could rise furtherCiting the provincial information office local newspaper SunStar Cebu reported that 13 people were killed in Bogo City the quakes epicenter while four others died in San Remigio town in northern Cebu Xinhua news agency reportedThe municipality of Medellin in Cebu reported at least one death and multiple injuries along with damage to two bridgesSunStar Cebu added that victims of the quake continued to pour into Cebu Provincial Hospital Bogo City straining medical staffThe Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology initially reported that a 67magnitude earthquake struck Cebu province at 959 pm local time on Tuesday The institute later revised the magnitude to 69 adding that the quake struck at a depth of 5 kilometers approximately 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo CityThe tremor was also felt in many neighboring provinces in the central Philippines as well as some regions in the southern PhilippinesA number of village roads also sustained damageThe quake caused power lines to trip leading to outages across Cebu and nearby central islands though power was restored shortly after midnight in Cebu and four other major central islands the National Grid Corp of the Philippines said in an updated advisoryThe Philippines sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire a zone prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/at-least-19-dead-as-67-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-philippines-641038.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-envoy-meets-visiting-armed-forces-medical-team-in-washington-641039.html Washington Oct 1 Indian Ambassador to the United States Vinay Kwatra met the visiting officers of the Armed Forces Medical Services of India in Washington during their visit to the United States In a post on X Kwatra wrote Interacted with Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and officers of Armed Forces Medical Services of India who are visiting US for interacting with their counterparts at US INDOPACOM DHA Departments of Army Navy and Air Force The visit is aimed at enhancing cooperation in military medicine which is an important pillar of strong bilateral defense relationship between India and the USDespite tensions over trade security ties between India and the United States have remained strongIn midSeptember Ambassador Kwatra met the US Undersecretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby at the US Department of War headquarters the PentagonA productive conversation with the brilliant Elbridge Colby Reviewed the current agenda and charted actionable path on several initiatives in the pipeline of IndiaUS defence cooperation Value his deep knowledge perspective and consistent support for our strategic partnership Kwatra had posted on XColby also wrote about the meeting calling it a valuable discussionI was very pleased to host AmbVMKwatra at the Pentagon earlier this week for a valuable discussion We at the Department of War look forward to continuing to elevate our critical defense cooperation with India he posted on XThe interactions come days after armies of two countries concluded the 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 the annual bilateral ArmytoArmy exercise between India and the United States in AlaskaThe 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 the annual bilateral ArmytoArmy exercise between India and the United States concluded on September 14 after two weeks of rigorous training in AlaskaIn a statement on September 15 the Indian embassy in Washington termed the exercises a hallmark of the growing militarytomilitary interaction between India and the US aligned with the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between both countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-envoy-meets-visiting-armed-forces-medical-team-in-washington-641039.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-lebanon-explore-avenues-to-strengthen-tourism-business-ties-641040.html Beirut Oct 1 A Seminar on Promotion of Tourism and Business in India was held in Beirut focusing on boosting tourism and business ties between India and Lebanon The seminar was hosted by the Embassy of India in Beirut where Indian Ambassador Noor Rahman Sheikh moderated a panel discussion highlighting Indias rich heritage breathtaking destinations and business opportunitiesLaura El Khazen Lahoud Lebanons Tourism Minister attended the event as the Chief Guest and MP Ali Oseirran President of the LebaneseIndia Parliamentary Friendship Committee joined as the Guest of HonourSeveral other Lebanese senior officials including Director Generals of Ministries of Finance Public Works and Transport various tourism sector representatives and prominent businessmen also attended the eventOn this occasion the Chief Guest amp Guest of Honour along with Miss Lebanon Nada Koussa who participated in Miss World in May 2025 at Hyderabad Nabil Merwani VP ATTAL Mounir Teeny Chairman CCIA Zahle amp Beqaa and Haya Yehya Director of Dar Al Handsa spoke on the importance and ways of promoting tourism and business relationships between India amp Lebanon Lebanese Artist Daniel Balamane presented a mesmerising performance of Shahnayi an Indian doublereed wind instrument Embassy of Indian in Beirut posted on X on WednesdayEarlier in March the Embassy organised a Multisectoral Business Seminar in Beirut to foster stronger IndiaLebanon trade ties the seminar consisted of a panel discussion moderated by Ambassador Sheikh and attended by MP Ali Osseiran President of the LebaneseIndian Parliamentary Friendship Committee senior officials of various Ministries prominent businessmen and the Indian diasporaIn 2024 despite the disruptions due to the IsraelHezbollah conflict the Indian diplomatic mission continued to interact closely with the business community including organising business seminars to promote bilateral commercial tiesFurthermore several Lebanese companies participated in trade fairs in India in 202425 and were able to engage in productive meetings that led to various trade opportunities Lebanons imports from India stood at US337 million in 2025 as compared to US323 million in 2024 India is the 11th largest import source for LebanonThe year 2025 marks the 71st year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Lebanon India and Lebanon have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations India established diplomatic relations with Lebanon in 1954 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-lebanon-explore-avenues-to-strengthen-tourism-business-ties-641040.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-government-shuts-down-as-republicans-democrats-fail-to-break-impasse-641048.html Washington Oct 1 The United States government has shut down as lawmakers failed to achieve a breakthrough on a funding bill As a consequence the funding for US government departments will be cut and will bring a few federal services to a halt On Tuesday Democrats blocked Republicans plans to pass the spending bill in the SenateDemocratic leaders met US President Donald Trump on Monday but failed to come to an agreementHours after the meeting Trump shared an AIgenerated video on Truth Social mocking House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck SchumerTrump on Tuesday continued to blame Democrats saying that he didnt see them bend even a little bitHe also threatened to fire more federal workers during the shutdownWhen you shut it down you have to do layoffs wed be laying off a lot of people Trump saidDemocrats are demanding to reverse the healthcare cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this yearRepublicans assert they would not agree to Democrats demands and had proposed to extend funding until November 21While the Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives they are seven votes short in the Senate as the funding bill requires 60 votes to passIt is the first US government shutdown in seven years as the last one happened under Trump 10 and lasted for 35 days the longest in historyEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control would continue to function while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affectedIf the shutdown is extended over a long period air travel could face challenges as many of those workers would be forced to work without pay and may not report for duty IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-government-shuts-down-as-republicans-democrats-fail-to-break-impasse-641048.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-embassy-updates-applicants-about-passports-visa-services-amid-govt-shut-down--641060.html New Delhi Oct 1 IANS The US Embassy in India on Wednesday assured applicants that passports and visa services will continue despite the government shut down underway in WashingtonnbspnbspIn a statement shared on social media platform X the US Embassy in India stated At this time scheduled passport and visa services in the United States and at US Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits We will not update this account until full operations resume with the exception of urgent safety and security information For information on our services and operating status visit httptravelstategovThe Embassys statement comes as the US government has shut down since lawmakers failed to achieve a breakthrough on a funding bill As a consequence the funding for US government departments will be cut and will bring a several federal services to a haltnbspOn Tuesday Democrats blocked Republicans plans to pass the spending bill in the Senate Democratic leaders met US President Donald Trump on Monday but failed to come to an agreement Hours after the meeting Trump shared an AIgenerated video on Truth Social mocking House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck SchumerTrump on Tuesday continued to blame Democrats saying that he didnt see them bend even a little bit He also threatened to fire more federal workers during the shutdown When you shut it down you have to do layoffs wed be laying off a lot of people Trump saidnbspDemocrats have demanded to reverse the healthcare cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this year Republicans have stressed they would not agree to Democrats demands and had proposed to extend funding until November 21While the Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives they are seven votes short in the Senate as the funding bill requires 60 votes to pass It is the first US government shutdown in seven years as the last one happened under Trump 10 and lasted for 35 days the longest in historynbspEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control would continue to function while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affected https://dailyworld.in/international/us-embassy-updates-applicants-about-passports-visa-services-amid-govt-shut-down--641060.html Wed, 01 Oct 2025 18:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-announces-20-point-peace-plan-to-end-war-in-gaza-640810.html Washington Sep 30 US President Donald Trump formally announced his 20point peace plan to end the IsraelHamas war in Gaza The White House released the plan on Monday as Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White HouseWhile addressing the media along with the Israeli PM Trump said if Hamas accepts the proposal the hostages would be released and the war would endNow its time for Hamas to accept the terms of the plan that weve put forward today Im hearing Hamas wants to get this done Trump saidHowever he warned that if Hamas rejects the plan Israel would have my full backing to finish the job of destroying the threat of HamasNetanyahu also announced his support for the peace plan saying that it achieves Israels war aims but also threatened to finish the job if Hamas does not agreeIt can be done the easy way or it can be done the hard way he saidTrumps peace plan for Gaza outlines the establishment of a temporary technocratic government with Israel pledging not to annex the Strip and ensuring that no residents are forced to leave The agreement calls for an immediate end to the war if accepted with all captives both alive and deceased returned within 72 hoursThe government in Gaza will be overseen by a new international transitional body the Board of Peace which will be chaired by Trump and other members including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair This body will set the framework and handle the funding for the redevelopment of Gaza until the Palestinian Authority complete a reform program to take back controlHamas members who commit to peace would receive amnesty while others would be offered safe passage abroad Security in Gaza will be overseen by regional and international forces who would also help train Palestinian police while aid would flow in at agreed levels The US would facilitate further dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians to support longterm coexistenceRiyad Mansour head of the Palestine Mission to the United Nations at a Security Council meeting before Trump announced his plan reiterated the Palestine Authoritys readiness to work with President Trump and the US administrationWe reiterate Palestines readiness to work with President Trump and the US administration with Saudi Arabia and regional actors with your European partners and the members of this distinguished Security Council with the entire international community he addedThe war in Gaza began almost two years ago when Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 2023 killing 1200 people and taking 251 hostages Around 48 people are believed to remain in captivity and about 20 are thought to be alivePressure has been growing on Israel to end the war as more than 66000 Palestinians have been killed and much of Gaza has been reduced to rubble IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-announces-20-point-peace-plan-to-end-war-in-gaza-640810.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-government-shutdown-likely-as-political-impasse-continues-640814.html Washington Sep 30 The United States is barrelling towards a government shutdown as the meeting between President Donald Trump and Democratic leadership failed to achieve any breakthrough If no deal is achieved between Republicans and Democrats by Tuesday midnight the funding for the US government will be cut and it will bring a few federal services to a haltAfter meeting Trump in the White House Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said he and Representative Hakeem Jeffries the House minority leader laid out to the president some of the consequences of whats happening in health care and by his face he looked like he heard about them for the first timeHe added that they have very large differences on health careDemocrats are demanding to reverse the Medicaid cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill which was passed earlier this yearVicePresident JD Vance addressing the media at the White House indicated that a shutdown could be imminentI think were headed into a shutdown because Democrats wont do the right thing I hope they change their mind but were going to see Vance saidRepublicans assert they would not agree to Democrats demands and have proposed to extend funding until November 21While the Republicans control both the Senate and the House of Representatives they are seven votes short in the Senate as the funding bill requires 60 votes to passIt would be the first US government shutdown in seven years as the last one happened under Trump 10 in 2018 and lasted for 35 days the longest in historyThe Trump administration has threatened to fire more federal workers during the government shutdown periodEssential services such as border protection law enforcement and airtraffic control would continue to function while food assistance programmes governmentfunded preschool food inspectors and operations at national parks could be adversely affectedIf the shutdown is extended over a long period air travel could face challenges as many of those workers would be forced to work without pay and may not report for duty IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-government-shutdown-likely-as-political-impasse-continues-640814.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/mexico-urges-us-consideration-over-new-vehicle-tariffs-640823.html Mexico City Sep 30 Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said she hoped the United States would show consideration toward Mexico following the US decision to impose new tariffs on heavy vehicle imports We are already in talks hoping there will be consideration toward Mexico Sheinbaum said on Monday during her daily press conference adding the tariffs could be problematic for both countries Xinhua news agency reportedUS President Donald Trump on Thursday announced a slew of new tariffs including a 25 per cent tariff on imported heavy vehicles starting October 1 as part of his policy to strengthen the domestic industrySheinbaum noted that under the United StatesMexicoCanada Agreement on free trade Mexicos exports have grown in sectors not subject to tariffs particularly those excluding finished vehicles steel or copper benefiting from the accords zerotariff schemeTrade ties with the United States continue to be very important and a very significant competitive advantage for Mexico said SheinbaumMexico has managed to avoid major repercussions from US tariff policies thus far largely due to the USMexicoCanada USMCA trade pact Sheinbaum hopes this trade relationship will continue to protect Mexico from harsh economic impactsAbout 85 per cent of Mexican exports meet the USMexicoCanada Agreement USMCA rules protecting them from a 25 per cent fentanylrelated tariff However Trump said last month that tariffs will remain 50 per cent on Mexican steel aluminium and copper and 25 per cent on autos or goods that do not meet USMCA rules He also announced that Mexico agreed to remove many of its nontariff trade barriers IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/mexico-urges-us-consideration-over-new-vehicle-tariffs-640823.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-resumes-extradition-to-us-after-17-years-sends-indian-citizen-wanted-in-fatal-car-crash-case-640827.html New York Sep 30 India has resumed extraditions to the US after a 17year hiatus sending over an Indian citizen wanted in the US on criminal charges according to officials Ganesh Shenoy 54 who fled to India after a crash that killed a 44yearold man 20 years ago was taken into custody by the US Marshals Service in Mumbai and brought here on Thursday the Nassau County prosecutors office said on MondayAfter decades of evading law enforcement and dodging prosecution my office finally returned this defendant to the United States to answer for the tragic death of a husband and father of two more than 20 years ago the prosecutor Anne Donnelly saidHe was produced on Friday before a judge who ordered him held without bail she saidThe crash happened early morning in April 2005 in the New York City suburb of Hicksville when the victim Philip Mastropolo was driving to work she saidDonnelly said that Shenoy who was allegedly driving at twice the speed limit ran a red light and hit Mastropolos car with such force that it skidded about 20 metres and crashed into a truckMastropolo died on the spotShenoy was taken to a hospital but refused medical treatmentAlthough his Indian passport was confiscated he managed to escape to India flying from New York to Mumbai 14 days later her office saidHe was charged in Nassau County with seconddegree manslaughter in August 2005 and an Interpol Red Notice was issued according to her officeThe seconddegree manslaughter charge Shenoy faces under New York law is the equivalent of the offence in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita of committing a rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicideIndia and the US signed an extradition treaty in 1997The treaty provides for the extradition of anyone committing a criminal offence that is covered by the laws of both countries and carries an imprisonment of more than a yearA seconddegree manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 15 years under New York law IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-resumes-extradition-to-us-after-17-years-sends-indian-citizen-wanted-in-fatal-car-crash-case-640827.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/hamas-to-review-us-ceasefire-proposal-as-arab-muslim-nations-express-support-640832.html Gaza Sep 30 Hamas has received a USbacked proposal aimed at ending the war in the Gaza Strip presented by Qatari and Egyptian mediators a Hamas source said The plan which US President Donald Trump secured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus backing earlier in the day was delivered during a meeting in Doha The Qatari prime minister and the head of Egypts General Intelligence Service presented the plan to Hamas negotiators the source saidThe Hamas delegation told mediators it would study the proposal with sincere intent before issuing an official response according to the sourceEgypts Al Qahera News TV citing Egyptian security sources confirmed the delivery of the US peace proposal to Hamas The report said Egypt and other Arab countries made several amendments to the plan before presenting it to Hamas in DohaEarlier on Monday US President Donald Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had agreed to his broad Gaza peace plan Trump added that if Hamas accepted the proposal it would require the release of all remaining hostages within 72 hours and called on the group to accept the termsNetanyahu however warned that Israel would finish the job against Hamas if the militants rejected the proposalThe plan faced immediate opposition from Islamic Jihad a Palestinian militant group allied with Hamas which dismissed it as a recipe for continued aggression against the Palestinian peopleThrough this Israel is attempting via the United States to impose what it could not achieve through war the group said in a statement We consider the AmericanIsraeli declaration a formula for igniting the regionMeanwhile the Palestinian Authority based in the West Bank welcomed the US proposal and expressed its readiness to work with the United States regional countries and partners to end the Gaza war through a comprehensive agreement Xinhua news agency reported quoting the official WAFA newsThe plan the authority said should ensure adequate humanitarian aid to Gaza secure the release of hostages and prisoners and establish mechanisms to protect the Palestinian peopleThe foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia Jordan the UAE Indonesia Pakistan Türkiye Qatar and Egypt issued a joint statement late on Monday welcoming the US proposalThe ministers praised the proposals to end the fighting rebuild Gaza prevent Palestinian displacement and block the annexation of the West BankThey reaffirmed their commitment to work with the United States to secure a deal that guarantees unrestricted humanitarian aid to Gaza the release of hostages security for all sides full Israeli withdrawal reconstruction of Gaza and a path toward a just twostate solution integrating Gaza and the West Bank in line with international law IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/hamas-to-review-us-ceasefire-proposal-as-arab-muslim-nations-express-support-640832.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-ex-pm-han-attends-1st-hearing-of-insurrection-trial-640856.html Seoul Sep 30 Former South Korean Prime Minister Han Ducksoo on Tuesday attended the first hearing of his trial on charges of abetting former President Yoon Suk Yeols failed imposition of martial law Han has been indicted on charges of abetting the ringleader of an insurrection in connection with the martial law imposition in December perjury and falsifying official documents among other offencesUpon arriving at the Seoul Central District Court he entered the building without answering reporters questionsThe hearing will be broadcast online after personal information is anonymised as special counsel Cho Eunsuks team requested it and the bench approvedBoth the special counsel team and Hans side will give opening remarksAn examination of evidence will follow using surveillance camera footage of the presidential office on Dec 3 when Han allegedly left the Cabinet meeting room with papers printed with the martial law declaration and Yoons address to the nationHan was one of the attendees at a Cabinet meeting held shortly before Yoon declared martial law that dayThe special counsel team has requested however that the footage examination be excluded from the broadcast out of national security considerations as the video is classified as a Grade 3 military secret Yonhap news agency reportedIn addition to abetting the martial law imposition Hans indictment accuses him of drafting a revised proclamation after December 3 to enhance the legitimacy of the decree and later destroying itHe also stands accused of lying under oath at the Constitutional Court and the National Assembly that he was not aware that Yoon had given him a copy of the martial law declaration until after the decree was liftedHan Ducksoo is a South Korean diplomat economist and politician who served as the acting president of South Korea in December 2024 and from March to May 2025 and as the prime minister of South Korea from 2007 to 2008 and from 2022 to 2025Han is the fifth person to hold the prime ministers office twice having served under Presidents Roh Moohyun and Yoon Suk Yeol He also held office as the minister of economy and finance from 2005 to 2006 the ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2012 and the chairman of the Korea International Trade Association from 2012 to 2015After the impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol on 14 December 2024 Han became the acting president of South Korea Thirteen days later Han himself was also impeached by the National Assembly of South Korea due to his refusal to promulgate two special counsel bills that sought to investigate the impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife Kim Keonhee along with failing to appoint three National Assemblydesignated candidates for the Constitutional Court of KoreaThis ended his role as acting president and suspended his powers as prime minister with both duties being transferred to Choi Sangmok IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-ex-pm-han-attends-1st-hearing-of-insurrection-trial-640856.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/spacex-targets-11th-test-flight-of-starship-for-october-13-640864.html New Delhi Sep 30 After a resounding success of its 10th test flight of Starship SpaceX is targeting the 11th test flight for October 13 the Elon Muskled company announced on Tuesday The Starship and Super Heavy booster is scheduled to launch from the companys Starbase site in South Texas on October 13 with a launch window opening at 615 pm CT October 14 445 am ISTStarships tenth flight test took a significant step forward in developing the worlds first fully reusable launch vehicle Next up Flight 11 of Starship is targeted to launch as early as Monday October 13 SpaceX said in a post on social media platform XDuring the 11th flight the booster will launch with 24 flightproven Raptor engines Its primary test objective will be demonstrating a unique landing burn engine configuration planned to be used on the nextgeneration Super HeavyIt will attempt this while on a trajectory to an offshore landing point in the Gulf of America and will not return to the launch site for catch SpaceX said in a blog postThe primary goal of the flight test is to measure the realworld vehicle dynamics as engines shut down while transitioning between the different phasesThe Starship upper stage will target multiple inspace objectives including the deployment of eight Starlink simulators similar in size to nextgeneration Starlink satellitesThe flight test also includes several experiments and operational changes focused on enabling Starships upper stage to return to the launch site on future flightsMeanwhile Starships 10th test flight carried out in August began with Super Heavy successfully lifting off by igniting all 33 Raptor engines and ascending over the Gulf of AmericaUsing its four flaps for control the spacecraft arrived at its splashdown point in the Indian Ocean successfully executed a landing flip and completed the flight test with a landing burn and soft splashdownThis came after a series of anomalies during Flight 7 Flight 8 and Flight 9 which lifted off this year in January March and MayOn Flight 7 and Flight 8 the Ship exploded less than 10 minutes after launch while on Flight 9 it broke apart upon reentry to Earths atmosphereStanding more than 400 feet tall when fully stacked Starship is the biggest and most powerful rocket ever builtIt consists of two elements both of which are designed to be fully and rapidly reusable a booster known as Super Heavy and an upperstage spacecraft called StarshipSpaceX is developing Starship to help humanity return to the Moon and settle on MarsIt will launch the moon lander for NASAs Artemis 3 mission that aims to land astronauts on the Moon IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/spacex-targets-11th-test-flight-of-starship-for-october-13-640864.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/from-pok-to-balochistan-rising-uprisings-signal-collapse-of-pakistan-armys-grip-640869.html New Delhi Sep 30 The protests that have broken out in Pakistanoccupied Kashmir PoK are a clear signal of how badly the Pakistan Army is collapsing due to rising corruption The army has managed to keep the issue under wraps for long in a bid to protect its corrupt officials but now the people have taken to the streets and are fighting backThe issue of corruption in the Pakistan Army over which the people are fighting is not limited to PoK but it extends up to Balochistan tooDespite the internet being cut and phone services suspended news regarding the protests in PoK has reached the entire world At least 2 people were killed and 22 others were injured after the police opened fire in PoKWhile there are longstanding issues such as the development of the region Indian officials say that the people of Pakistan are fed up with the brazen corruption in the Pakistan Army One of the biggest issues in the army that the people are now flagging is the culture of commission whether arms deals or developmental worksThe Pakistan Army for long had roped in retired officials to deal with the middlemen and take commission All this was not visible to the public and the rest of the world since the retired officials were working behind the scenesThere is no doubt that the Pakistan Army is the most powerful institution in Pakistan Today it has a puppet in the form of Shehbaz Sharif and hence this racket that it undertakes has become even easierIn 2015 Pakistan signed one of the biggest deals for a naval project called the Hangarclass submarine programme This deal was estimated at around 5 billion However the details of this deal remain sketchy and no information has even been given to the Parliament or the publicHowever the Pakistan Army has not just been complicit in giving information about defence deals The corruption even extends to housing and land Schemes such as the Defence Housing Authority DHA have made the Pakistan Army the biggest property developer in the country The DHA which runs into millions of dollars has managed to escape scrutiny as a result of which corruption is at an alltime highThe DHA has a special legal status that protects it from government oversight This has enabled the Pakistan Army officials to indulge in largescale corruption These issues have not only irked the public but a section within the army as wellIndian officials say that corruption has peaked the most under Field Marshal Asim Munir Recently a letter that was issued in the name of The Guardians of Honour exposed the uneasy calm within the army The letter accuses Munir of incompetence corruption and political oppressionThe crisis was reportedly sparked off due to the standoff with former Prime Minister Imran Khan and the courtmartial of Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed former head of the ISIWhile Asim Munir has largely managed to put down dissent the mask is currently wearing off An Intelligence assessment on the situation in Pakistan suggests that the protests in Balochistan and PoK could be turning points for Munir and his men There is no sign of the protests in both regions dying down and the situation could get only worse in the days to comeFurther the army also fears that these issues particularly corruption political interference and development could spill into the major cities of the country The army would no doubt try and put down the dissent with the use of massive forceHowever it is also mindful of the events that have taken place in Bangladesh Nepal and Sri Lanka Further it has also realised that it is having the worst time in Balochistan It has faced embarrassment on several occasions apart from incurring huge lossesThese are clear indications that the clout is gradually wearing out and the army would need to gear up for tough days ahead IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/from-pok-to-balochistan-rising-uprisings-signal-collapse-of-pakistan-armys-grip-640869.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/world-leaders-laud-trumps-20-point-peace-plan-to-end-conflict-in-gaza-640882.html London Sep 30 Several world leaders on Tuesday welcomed the US President Donald Trumps plan to end the Gaza conflict facilitate the release of hostages and provide urgent humanitarian assistance for the people of Gaza The remarks came after Trump formally announced his 20point peace plan to end the IsraelHamas war in Gaza during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday Washington timeWelcoming the new US initiative British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said We call on all sides to come together and to work with the US Administration to finalise this agreement and bring it into reality Hamas should now agree to the plan and end the misery by laying down their arms and releasing all remaining hostagesTogether with our partners we will continue work to build consensus to put into place a permanent ceasefire We are all committed to a collective effort to end the war in Gaza and deliver a sustainable peace where Palestinians and Israelis can live side by side in safety and security he addedFrench President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope that Israel would engage resolutely with the plan stating that Hamas has no choice but to immediately release all hostages and follow the planTaking to X Macron said These elements must pave the way for indepth discussions with all relevant partners to build a lasting peace in the region based on the twostate solution and on the principles endorsed by 142 UN member states at the initiative of France and Saudi Arabia France stands ready to contribute It will remain vigilant regarding the commitments of each partyMeanwhile Australia affirms the plans commitment to denying Hamas any role in the future governance of Gaza and calls on Hamas to agree to the plan lay down its arms and release all remaining hostagesWe commend the plans focus on Palestinian selfdetermination and statehood and the Palestinian Authority taking back effective control of Gaza President Trumps plan reflects a clear rejection of annexation and forced displacement of Palestinians said Australian Prime Minister Anthony AlbaneseFurthermore in a Joint Statement the Foreign Ministers of Qatar Jordan the United Arab Emirates Indonesia Pakistan Turkey Saudi Arabia and Egypt appreciated Trumps efforts to end the war in GazaThe ministers affirm their readiness to engage positively and constructively with the United States and the parties toward finalising the agreement and ensuring its implementation in a manner that ensures peace security and stability for the peoples of the region read the joint statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/world-leaders-laud-trumps-20-point-peace-plan-to-end-conflict-in-gaza-640882.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-cabinet-approves-govt-reorganisation-bill-abolishing-prosecution-office-640883.html Seoul Sep 30 The South Korean Cabinet on Tuesday approved a government reorganisation bill centred on abolishing the prosecution office and stripping the finance ministry of its budget planning role The bill the first of its kind under the Lee Jae Myung administration was passed by the National Assembly last week during a plenary session boycotted by the main opposition People Power Party Yonhap news agency reportedIt was approved during a Cabinet meeting presided over by President Lee Jae Myung along with other bills calling for the renaming of standing parliamentary committees and the abolition of the Korea Communications Commission KCCUnder the revision to the Government Organisation Act the prosecution office will be shut down in October next year 78 years after its establishment and will be replaced by two new agencies that will take on its investigative and indictment powersThe socalled serious crimes investigation agency will be installed under the interior ministry while the indictment office will be established under the justice ministryThe move comes after longstanding criticism that the prosecution has abused its exclusive powers by carrying out politically motivated investigationsThe Ministry of Economy and Finance meanwhile will be separated into the Ministry of Finance and Economy and the office for planning and budget which will be installed under the prime ministers office The change will take effect in January next yearOther government ministries will be subject to name changes and restructuring starting Wednesday when the revised bill will be promulgatedThe environment ministry will become the ministry of climate energy and environment while most of the energy departments under the Ministry of Trade Industry and Energy MOTIE will be transferred to the new environment ministry MOTIE will also be renamed the Ministry of Industry and TradeThe Ministry of Gender Equality and Family whose Korean name is the Ministry of Women and Family will additionally be renamed the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family while Statistics Korea and the Korean Intellectual Property Office will be upgraded to the national data office and the intellectual property office under the prime minister respectivelyThe office of the deputy prime minister for social affairs which was doublehatted by the education minister will be abolished but the finance minister and the science minister will each double as deputy prime ministerThe bill abolishing the KCC the state telecommunications regulator mandates the establishment of a new body overseeing the broadcasting and telecoms sectorsOnce it takes effect on Wednesday the current KCC chief Lee Jinsook will automatically be removed from office following months of tensions with the Lee administration over her alleged failure to maintain political neutralityLee was appointed by former President Yoon Suk Yeol in July 2024 to a threeyear term IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-cabinet-approves-govt-reorganisation-bill-abolishing-prosecution-office-640883.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/leaders-of-europe-middle-east-welcome-trumps-plan-to-end-conflict-in-gaza-640900.html Brussels Sep 30 Leaders of Europe and the Middle East on Tuesday welcomed US President Donald Trumps announcement of a comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza The statement of leaders comes after Trump formally announced his 20point peace plan to end the IsraelHamas war in Gaza as he met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday Washington timeEuropean Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed Trumps commitment to end the conflict in Gaza and expressed the European Unions readiness to contribute to the effortsWelcome President Donald Trumps commitment to end the war in Gaza Encourage all parties to now seize this opportunity The EU stands ready to contribute Hostilities should end with the provision of immediate humanitarian relief to the population in Gaza and with all hostages released immediatelyShe called a twostate solution the only viable path to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East with people of Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and securityEuropean Council President Antonio Costa welcomed Trumps plan to end the war in Gaza Calling the situation in Gaza intolerable he called for an end to hostilities and the release of all hostages held by HamasIn a post on X Costa wrote I welcome President Donald Trumps plan to end the war in Gaza and I am encouraged by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus positive response All parties must seize this moment to give peace a genuine chanceStressing that the situation in Gaza is intolerable Costa said Hostilities must end and all hostages must be released immediately The Israeli and Palestinian people deserve to live side by side in peace and security free from violence and terrorism A twostate solution remains the only viable path to a just and lasting peace in the Middle EastTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan appreciated Trumps efforts aimed at halting the conflict in Gaza and achieving a ceasefire He expressed Turkeys readiness to contribute to the process of establishing a just and lasting peace acceptable to all partiesI commend US President Donald Trumps efforts and leadership aimed at halting the bloodshed in Gaza and achieving a ceasefire Turkiye will continue to contribute to the process with a view to establishing a just and lasting peace acceptable to all parties Erdogan posted on XCanadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Trumps plan and urged all parties to help in fully implementing it He called for the release of hostages and expressed Canadas readiness to support efforts to deliver aid to GazaIn a post on X Carney wrote Canada welcomes President Trumps historic new Middle East peace plan and we urge all parties to help it realise its full potential As the critical next step Hamas must immediately release all hostages Canada stands ready to support the sustained unimpeded and largescale delivery of humanitarian aid into and throughout GazaWe will continue our close coordination with international partners to build a just and lasting peace that builds on todays progress with a sovereign democratic and viable State of Palestine building its future in peace and security with the State of Israel he addedWelcoming the US plan to end the conflict in Gaza German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in a post on X wrote The US plan for Gaza offers the unique opportunity to end the horrific war in Gaza This opportunity must not be missedNew Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters welcomed the US comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza He urged all parties to use the opportunity to end the conflict and fully implement the terms of the proposalIn a post on X Peters stated In our speech to the UN General Assembly over the weekend we said We desperately want diplomacy to succeed and we believe it is those countries with leverage who are most likely to achieve a breakthrough That would show global leadershipNew Zealand therefore welcomes the United States Comprehensive Plan to End the Conflict in Gaza as an example of such global leadership We urge the parties to seize this important opportunity to end the conflict and implement the terms of the proposal fully New Zealand wants to see an immediate end to this disastrous conflict he addedThe leaders statement comes as Trump announced a peace plan for Gaza which outlines the establishment of a temporary technocratic government with Israel pledging not to annex the Strip and ensuring that no residents are forced to leave The agreement calls for an immediate end to the war if accepted with all captives both alive and deceased returned within 72 hoursThe government in Gaza will be overseen by a new international transitional body the Board of Peace which will be chaired by Trump and other members including former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair This body will set the framework and handle the funding for the redevelopment of Gaza until the Palestinian Authority complete a reform programme to take back controlHamas members who commit to peace would receive amnesty while others would be offered safe passage abroad Security in Gaza will be overseen by regional and international forces who will also help train the Palestinian Police while aid will flow in at agreed levelsThe US would facilitate further dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians to support longterm coexistence IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/leaders-of-europe-middle-east-welcome-trumps-plan-to-end-conflict-in-gaza-640900.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/no-place-like-it-on-planet-earth-us-students-in-awe-of-incredible-india-after-returning-home-640910.html Seattle Sep 30 Promoting peopletopeople ties especially among the youth of the two countries a 10member student delegation from Montana in the United States visited India recently After returning home the students shared their experience about Incredible India during a special welcome reception hosted by Montana Governor Greg Gianforte at the State Capitol in Helena the Consulate General of India shared on Tuesday India time During the welcome reception the Montana students narrated their experiences to an audience of leading scholars media representatives and industry leaders who had gathered at the State Capitol The delegations twoweek visit underscored the importance of developing deeper ties between the next generation of young leaders from India and the United StatesAddressing the welcome reception at Helena Governor Gianforte welcomed the initiative of the newlyopened Indian Consulate in Seattle in promoting peopletopeople ties especially among the youth of the two countriesThe 10member student delegation from Montana to India was led by Jason Smith Member of the Board of Directors of the Montana World Affairs Council Their itinerary included prominent heritage landmarks and experiences such as the Rath Yatra in Odisha the Ram Temple in Ayodhya the ISKCON Temple in Vrindavan the Taj Mahal in Agra the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha and Lucknows Bara Imambara and Rumi DarwazaThese students were selected through a competitive and extensive series of Indiafocused outreach programmes across multiple school districts of Montana culminating in the Indian Film Festival at the University of Montana in Missoula earlier this yearRecalling his India visit Jason Smith the delegation head said I have always found my time in India to be magical The people are warm and wonderful the sights the sounds are so unique Theres no place like it on Planet EarthIt is really important for our young delegation to spend time with their peers and to learn firsthand that there is more that unites us than makes us differentThe Consulate General of India in Seattle worked in close partnership with the Montana World Affairs Council to arrange this exclusively curated visitThe programme featured interactions with senior government officials of the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi visits to leading educational institutions such as KIITKISS in Odisha and CMS in Lucknow and vibrant exchanges with their youth counterparts in Lucknow and BhubaneswarDuring this immersive experience the Montana students also participated in interactive workshops aimed at deepening their understanding and appreciation of Indian arts and culture IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/no-place-like-it-on-planet-earth-us-students-in-awe-of-incredible-india-after-returning-home-640910.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-10-people-killed-over-20-injured-in-balochistan-explosion-640918.html Quetta Sep 30 At least 10 people were killed and more than 20 others injured after an explosion occurred near Frontier Corps FC headquarters on Zarghun Road in Pakistans Quetta on Tuesday the local media reported Security forces said that six terrorists including a suicide bomber were killed in the retaliatory action A suicide bomber detonated explosives near FC headquarters on Zarghun Road followed by intense firing Pakistans leading news channel Samaa TV reportedAccording to the police and rescue officials blast triggered widespread panic shattered nearby windows and caused damage to motorcycles rickshaws and other parked vehicles Footage from the site of the incident showed thick smoke billowing upwards into the skyThe Civil Hospital Quetta said that they received bodies of 10 people who were deceased and were providing medical assistance to over 20 people who were injured some of whom remain in critical conditionRescue teams took the injured people to medical facilities while security personnel cordoned off the area Bomb disposal squads were called to find the nature of the explosives used for the blastPakistani security officials said all six attacks including the suicide bomber were killed in the operation Two Frontier Corps personnel were reportedly injured during the confrontationBalochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti condemned the attack and expressed commitment to making the region peaceful and secureHe stated The sacrifices of our people and security institutions will not go in vain We are committed to making Balochistan peaceful and secure He expressed sympathy with the families of victims and prayers for the recovery of those injured in the attackOn September 24 a total of 12 people including women and children were injured after the Jaffar Express passenger train heading to Quetta was targetted in a bomb blast in the Spizend area of Mastung in Pakistans Balochistan local media reportedSix bogies of the train heading from Peshawar to Quetta derailed after the blast and one overturned causing injuries to the passengers according to railway officials Pakistans leading daily Dawn reportedOn September 23 an explosion took place near the main track connecting Balochistan to other parts of Pakistan just like the Peshawarbound Jaffar Express was preparing to leave Quetta Railway Station According to police officials an explosive device planted on the track was detonated when the train heading to Quetta was passing through the Spizend area IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-10-people-killed-over-20-injured-in-balochistan-explosion-640918.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/typhoon-bualoi-leaves-19-dead-88-injured-in-vietnam-640922.html Hanoi Sep 30 The death toll from Typhoon Bualoi and subsequent floods in Vietnam has risen to 19 with 88 others injured local media reported on Tuesday Thirteen people remain missing while eight others are still out of contact reports Xinhua quoting Vietnam News AgencyMore than 105000 houses were unroofed or damaged with central Ha Tinh province hardest hit accounting for over 78800 of themVietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has instructed local authorities and sectors to take urgent measures to support affected residents and mitigate the aftermath of the typhoonPM Chinh also extended his deepest condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families and the Party organisations administrations and residents enduring the losses and difficulties caused by the disastersHe ordered the chairpersons of the Peoples Committees of Quang Ninh Hai Phong Hung Yen Ninh Binh Thanh Hoa Nghe An Ha Tinh Quang Tri Hue Phu Tho Son La Lao Cai Da Nang Lang Son Cao Bang and Thai Nguyen to mobilise forces and vehicles to access isolated areas as soon as possible repair damaged houses arrange shelters for affected residents and provide them with essential suppliesHe ordered the repair of damaged educational and medical facilities before October 5According to the National Centre for HydroMeteorological Forecasting flash floods and landslides are expected to persist for the next two to three daysRainfall in several parts of Vietnam had exceeded 300 millimetres over the past 24 hours the national weather agency said Heavy rains would continue including in the capital Hanoi and strong winds and lightning were also possible it saidAs of Tuesday several villages in northern central Vietnam remained flooded with no traffic or power state media reportedBualoi was the second major storm to threaten Asia in a week Typhoon Ragasa one of the strongest to hit in years left at least 28 deaths in the northern Philippines and Taiwan before making landfall in China and dissipating Thursday over VietnamGlobal warming is making storms like Wipha stronger and wetter according to experts since warmer oceans provide tropical storms with more fuel driving more intense winds heavier rainfall and shifting precipitation patterns across East Asia IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/typhoon-bualoi-leaves-19-dead-88-injured-in-vietnam-640922.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/israel-says-hamas-funded-and-organised-gaza-bound-sumud-flotilla-640929.html Tel Aviv Sep 30 IANS Israels Foreign Ministry on Monday claimed that the official Hamas documents recovered in the Gaza Strip revealed the terror groups direct involvement in the funding and execution of the Sumud flotilla bound for GazanbspThe Global Sumud Flotilla comprising about 50 civilian vessels and participants from over 40 countries aims to challenge Israels naval blockade imposed since 2007 and deliver food and medical aid to PalestiniansThe Israeli Foreign Ministry on Monday released part of the Hamas documents along with translations and images showing some of the flotillas organisers alongside senior Hamas leadersnbspHamas documents that were discovered in the Gaza Strip and are being revealed for the first time show a direct link between the flotilla leaders and the Hamas terrorist organisation While Hamas in the Gaza Strip is responsible for what happens inside the Strip Hamas Abroad is responsible for activity outside the Gaza Strip with emphasis on the Palestinian Conference for Palestinians Abroad PCPA organisation which is subordinate to Hamas and serves as a wing of the movement read a statement issued by the Israeli Foreign MinistryAccording to the statement the PCPA was established in 2018 and functions as Hamas representative body abroad operating de facto as Hamas embassies The organisation it said operates under the pretense of civilian cover and is responsible on behalf of Hamas for mobilising actions against Israel including violent demonstrations marches against Israel and demonstration and provocation flotillasnbspThe first official Hamas document was found in the Gaza Strip a letter from 2021 signed by Head of the Hamas Political Bureau Ismail Haniyeh directly and explicitly calling on the PCPA chairman for unity In the letter Haniyeh publicly endorses the PCPA organization It should be noted that Israel designated the PCPA as a terrorist organisation in 2021 due to it being a wing of Hamas the Ministry statedIt stressed that the second official Hamas document is a list of PCPA operatives some of whom are highranking wellknown Hamas operativesnbspAmong the names on the list are Zaher Birawi who serves as Head of the PCPAs Hamas sector in the UK and who is known as a leader of the demonstration flotillas to the Gaza Strip over the past 15 years number 19 in the document and Saif Abu Kashk number 25 in the document an operative from the organization in Spain This document was found in a Hamas outpost in the Gaza Strip and proves again their direct connection between the flotilla leaders and Hamas the statement detailednbspIn addition to being a Hamasaligned PCPA operative Abu Kashk is the CEO of Cyber Neptune a front company in Spain that owns dozens of the ships participating in the Sumud flotilla Thus these ships are secretly owned by Hamas it added https://dailyworld.in/international/israel-says-hamas-funded-and-organised-gaza-bound-sumud-flotilla-640929.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/fiji-introduces-new-policy-to-address-staff-misconduct-in-schools-640981.html Suva Sep 30 Fijis Education Ministry is developing a comprehensive disciplinary policy to target staff misconduct shortages and weak accountability Education Minister Aseri Radrodro said in parliament on Tuesday that the new policy focuses on gaps in science technology engineering and mathematics STEM subjects remote schools and areas affected by retirements or resignations while improving teacher retention and motivation Xinhua News Agency reportedThe new framework also aims to eliminate previous gaps that led to delays favoritism and weak accountability according to Fiji Broadcasting CorporationRadrodro also outlined changes to the teacher transfer policy to tackle staff shortages and redistribute teachers across schools divisions and districtsHe said teachers can request transfers after serving a set period with annual windows and formal procedures to ensure fair movementsEarlier in August Fijis Cabinet approved the countrys first Child Safeguarding Policy establishing a single national framework to guide ministries statutory bodies civil society organisations and institutions that work with childrenThe policy sets out responsibilities procedures and minimum standards for organisations to follow ensuring greater accountability and consistency in child protection reported the Fiji Broadcasting CorporationThe Fijis Ministry of Women Children and Social Protection led the development of the framework through nationwide consultations which included children families community representatives and professionals working in child welfareMinister Sashi Kiran said the policys approval is a major milestone describing it as a significant step that reinforces Fijis commitment to protecting the rights and wellbeing of all childrenChild safeguarding has been an urgent concern in Fiji where incidents of child abuse neglect exploitation and online harm continue to riseData from child welfare agencies and police highlight persistent challenges in ensuring children are safe in homes schools religious institutions and community spacesThe lack of a coordinated safeguarding framework has often led to fragmented responses with gaps in reporting intervention and prevention The new policy aims to close these gaps the minister said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/fiji-introduces-new-policy-to-address-staff-misconduct-in-schools-640981.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 20:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-three-people-die-due-to-dengue-fatalities-in-2025-rise-to-198-640983.html Dhaka Sep 30 Three more people have died in Bangladesh due to dengue in 24 hours till Tuesday morning increasing the number of fatalities from the mosquitoborne disease in 2025 to 198 in the country During the same period 556 more patients were admitted to hospital with viral fever increasing the total infected patients in 2025 to 47342 according to the Directorate General of Health Services DGHS United News of Bangladesh UNB reportedAccording to the DGHS new cases were reported in Barishal Division Out of CC 137 Dhaka South City Corporation DSCC 113 Dhaka North City Corporation DNCC 101 Dhaka Division Out of CC 79 Chattogram Division Out of CC 70 Mymensingh Division Out of CC 28 Rajshahi Division Out of CC 25 and Sylhet Division Out of CC 3As many as 575 people died due to dengue in Bangladesh in 2024 A total of 1705 people died in Bangladesh due to dengue in 2023 making it the deadliest year on record According to the DGHS 321179 dengue cases and 318749 recoveries were recorded in Bangladesh in the same yearLast week Dhaka North City Corporation DNCC unveiled its Dengue dashboard a datadriven monitoring tool made to transform how city authorities monitor and respond to outbreaks The dashboard developed through the DNCC Innovation Lab and support from the United Nations Development Programme UNDP will provide concrete steps for timely interventions while raising awareness among people regarding prevention of dengue UNB reportedDNCC Administrator Mohammad Azaz said The Dengue Watch dashboard is more than a tool It is a step toward transforming DNCC into a digitally driven transparent and accountable institution By harnessing innovation we can integrate health environment and governance to build a smarter healthier DhakaUNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh Stefan Liller reiterated UNDPs support to innovation in urban health management He stated For UNDP it has been a privilege to support the innovation efforts of DNCC The Innovation Lab established in 2025 by DNCC and UNDP is striving to become a hub for smart scalable and citizencentered urban solutions The Dengue Watch Dashboard is one of its latest outcomes and it shows what is possible when local leadership data and innovation come togetherThe tool was showcased during the keynote session followed by a panel discussion with stakeholders from DGHS and other partners Representatives from the health ministry city corporations development partners and startups attended the event According to the press release participants agreed that fighting vectorborne diseases like dengue needs stronger partnerships real time data and a forwardlooking vision for resilient urban health IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-three-people-die-due-to-dengue-fatalities-in-2025-rise-to-198-640983.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 20:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/netanyahus-approval-exhibits-bonds-with-us-president-641005.html New Delhi Sep 30 US President Donald Trump was confident on Monday of possessing the formula that could bring peace in Gaza even before meeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel at the White House Netanyahu who met the President in person for the fourth time since Trump assumed office for a second term beginning this year did not hesitate to stamp his approval on the 20point programme The two leaders share a common thread in many aspects as has been evident in earlier instances In a significant move this time Netanyahu called the Prime Minister of Qatar from the White House considered to be at the behest of the President and apologised for the strike on Doha earlier this month There were reports of the death of lowranking Hamas members and a Qatari national who was a member of security forces Incidentally Qatar is a US ally and among the mediators trying to find a solution to the Gaza situation In a joint address to the media after the talks Trump said that the two premiers really had a hearttoheart conversation and that it was productive Netanyahu added Israel was targeting terrorists and not targeting Qatar Earlier this month the United States voted to condemn the strike in a United Nations Security Council resolution Critics however point out that Washington has not been as forthcoming when Israel similarly targeted Lebanon Syria Yemen Iran and Tunisia They accuse Trump of being pleased with Doha giving him a USD 400million aircraft as a personal gift during his recent visit Though Trump expressed exasperation at Israel for not complying with his call for a ceasefire he has not been as critical as he has been towards Russian Premier Vladimir Putin over his ceaseless pounding of Ukraine they add Meanwhile the United Kingdom Australia Canada and France among others joined the growing list of countries in recognising the state of Palestine Trump and Netanyahu both had condemned the nations saying that the recognition of Palestine as a state without going down strongly on the Hamas organisation serves as a reward for it Now world leaders have mostly welcomed the programme as an attempt at finding a lasting solution to the Gaza crisis Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the plan provides a viable pathway to longterm and sustainable peace security and development for the Palestinian and Israeli people as well as for the larger West Asian region He expressed hope that all concerned parties will come together in support of President Trumps initiative to end the conflict and secure lasting peace The new US initiative to deliver an end to the war in Gaza is profoundly welcome and I am grateful for President Trumps leadership said Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain in a statement on Monday We call on all sides to come together and to work with the US Administration to finalise this agreement and bring it into reality Hamas should now agree to the plan and end the misery by laying down their arms and releasing all remaining hostages it added European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on the social media X Welcome President realDonaldTrumps commitment to end the war in Gaza Encourage all parties to now seize this opportunity The EU stands ready to contribute Many other leaders have similarly joined them in extending their wishes for a quick and longlasting solution Hamas has said it will respond perhaps on Wednesday after President Trump said the group had three or four days to respond IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/netanyahus-approval-exhibits-bonds-with-us-president-641005.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 21:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-says-gaza-deal-settled-threatens-tough-response-if-hamas-refuses-641015.html Washington Sep 30 US President Donald Trump expressed confidence on Tuesday that he would be able to end the war in Gaza saying that he got it settled and going to get that done We got it I think settled Well see Hamas has to agree If they dont its going to be very tough on them but it is what it is But all of the Arab nations Muslim nations have agreed Israel has agreed Amazing thing it just came together Trump said while addressing more than 800 senior military officers in VirginiaHis statement comes a day after the administration formally announced a 20point peace plan to end the IsraelHamas war in GazaThe peace plan for Gaza outlines the establishment of a temporary technocratic government with Israel pledging not to annex the Strip and ensuring that no residents are forced to leave The agreement calls for an immediate end to the war if accepted with all captives both alive and deceased returned within 72 hoursSpeaking to reporters before his address on Tuesday Trump said he will wait for three or four days for Hamas to accept the proposalWere just waiting for Hamas and Hamas is either going to be doing it or not and if its not its going to be a very sad end With Hamas we want it very simple We want the hostages back immediately and we want some good behaviour And you know pretty pretty simple You dont get simpler Think of it Weve signed every country in the Middle East This is like an impossible thing Its never been done before This is more than Gaza Gaza is mixed up but this Gaza is a piece of it he addedHe reiterated his threat warning that if Hamas refuses to sign he will allow Israel to do what they have to doI would let them go and do what they have to do You know we have killed about 25000 Hamas So certainly they paid a big price for October 7 And this is a whole new group Their leadership has been killed three different times so they paid a big price We hope that theyre going to have a nice calm life Maybe it wont happen but if it does itll be one of the greatest things ever to happen Well have actual peace in the Middle East he notedThe war in Gaza began almost two years ago when Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 2023 killing 1200 people and taking 251 hostages Around 48 people are believed to remain in captivity and about 20 are thought to be alive IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-says-gaza-deal-settled-threatens-tough-response-if-hamas-refuses-641015.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 22:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/tibetan-activists-face-threats-from-china-for-protesting-environmental-destruction-report-641020.html Beijing Sep 30 As China continues to ramp up its claim over Tibetan resources the environmental activists in the region face persistent threats from the Chinese authorities a report said on Tuesday It added that between 2010 and 2019 many activists were detained and sentenced to years in prison in China for peacefully protesting against illegal mining activities the hunting of endangered species and environmental damage across TibetAccording to a report in the Greek City Times the imprisoned environmental human rights defenders include Anya Sengdra Dorjee Daktal Kelsang Choklang Dhongye Rinchen Namdol Tsultrim Gonpo Jangchup Ngodup Sogru Abhu and NamesyThe environmentalists it said committed to protecting the environment and addressing ecological challenges continue to face harassment humiliation and death threats from ChinaTibetan environmentalist ANya Sengdra who has spent seven years in jail was recently denied release Hence he will stay in jail until February 2026 Ironically no explanation was given for the extension of his jail term which is reminiscent of Chinas practice of acting without providing any satisfactory reason the report detailedIt stressed that this is not an isolated incident but part of a pattern showing how China has been harassing torturing and jailing Tibetan activists for raising their voice against the environmental exploitation in the regionAnother environmental activist Tsongon Tsering the report said was arrested in October 2024 after exposing illegal sand mining in Ngawa Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in southwest Chinas Sichuan Province through a videoHe accused Anhui Xianhe Construction Engineering Company of engaging in unauthorised mining under the guise of road construction The video highlighted severe environmental damage caused by the companys operations Instead of taking action against the company Chinese authorities picked up Tsering along with members of his family the report stressedIt further stated that the two cases highlight the risks faced by Tibetan environmental defenders from rigid Chinese authorities that suppress their right to speak out against harmful state and corporate practicesThe Dalai Lama has raised concerns about Tibets ecological issues as a global problem The revered Tibetan leader has highlighted climate change particularly the effects of ecological degradation due to wanton human activities the report notedStudies show that the Tibetan Plateau is warming three times faster than other parts of the world leading to the retreat of glaciers Thus the international community needs to act quickly not just to counter Chinas policies but also to protect the climate it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/tibetan-activists-face-threats-from-china-for-protesting-environmental-destruction-report-641020.html Tue, 30 Sep 2025 22:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-from-typhoon-bualoi-rises-to-11-in-vietnam-640768.html Hanoi Sep 29 The death toll from Typhoon Bualoi in Vietnam has risen to 11 with 13 people still missing and 33 others injured a local daily newspaper reported Six people were killed and seven others injured in northern Vietnams Ninh Binh provinceAcross the province 10 houses collapsed and another 10 had their roofs blown off reports Xinhua news agency quoting Nhan Dan PeopleAbout 30 electricity poles were knocked down while many trees and large areas of rice fields were flattened local media outlet VnExpress cited the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment as sayingAccording to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment 17 people remained missing in Quang Tri and Gia Lai provinces as of Monday morningMeanwhile two people in Hue city and Thanh Hoa province were reported dead due to floods and falling treesAt around 10 pm on Sunday downpours and strong winds caused the coal storage roof of a thermal power plant in central Ha Tinh province to collapse with repairs expected to take several months according to a plant representative Typhoon Bualoi is forecast to become the 10th typhoon to affect Vietnam this year following Typhoon RagasaLocal authorities have been instructed to closely monitor forecasts alert fishing vessels to seek shelter mobilise rescue forces and equipment and ensure the safety of people and property while providing regular reports to the ministry the report saidEarlier this month Typhoon Ragasa made landfall in Vietnam Several coastal localities in the northern and central regions of the nation banned vessels from going to seaThe authorities warned that torrential rains could trigger flooding in lowlying areas flash floods on small rivers and streams and landslides on steep slopes IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-from-typhoon-bualoi-rises-to-11-in-vietnam-640768.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/two-killed-nine-injured-in-us-michigan-church-shooting-640726.html New York Sep 29 At least two people have been killed and nine others were injured in a shooting at a church in Grand Blanc US state of Michigan according to local police The incident occurred on Sunday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints a small community northwest of Detroit A large fire broke out following the shooting Xinhua news agency reportedThe wounded including two in critical condition have been transported to local hospitals Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said at a press conferenceRenye said that the shooter identified as a 40yearold male drove his car into the church and opened fire on the crowd during a large serviceThe gunman was killed by police after exchanging gunfire at the church according to the police chiefThe fire had been just extinguished within the past hour he said adding that they believed the suspect deliberately set fire to the churchEarlier local police said in a statement that there were multiple victims in the shooting and the entire church was on fire urging people to avoid the area as emergency response efforts continuedUS President Donald Trump posted on social media that he has been briefed on the horrendous church shooting in MichiganMichigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said that she was receiving updates on the shooting in Grand BlancMy heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community Whitmer wrote in a post on social media platform X Violence anywhere especially in a place of worship is unacceptable IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/two-killed-nine-injured-in-us-michigan-church-shooting-640726.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-confirms-reactivation-of-sanctions-on-iran-640727.html United Nations Sep 29 The United Nations confirmed that sanctions against Iran have been reactivated Pursuant to the process set forth in paragraphs 11 and 12 of Security Council resolution 2231 2015 effective on 27 September at 8 pm Eastern Daylight Time all provisions of resolutions 1696 2006 1737 2006 1747 2007 1803 2008 1835 2008 and 1929 2010 have been reapplied in the same manner as they applied before the adoption of resolution 2231 2015 on 20 July 2015 said a note to correspondents from the Office of the Spokesperson for the UN SecretaryGeneralThe note said that accordingly the sanctions list maintained by the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 has been reestablished and includes 43 individuals and 78 entities that were listed before the adoption of resolution 2231 Xinhua news agency reportedThe note listed the individuals and entities that have been added back to the United Nations Security Council Consolidated Sanctions ListLast month France Britain and Germany formally invoked the snapback mechanism which allowed for the reimposition of UN sanctions within 30 days if Iran was deemed in breach of a 2015 nuclear deal formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOAOn September 19 the UN Security Council failed to adopt a resolution that would have extended sanctions relief for Iran under the JCPOA A subsequent resolution which sought to grant a sixmonth extension to both the JCPOA and Resolution 2231 also failed to pass in the Security Council on FridayIran suspended inspections of its nuclear facilities a legal obligation under the terms of the 2015 deal after Israel and the US bombed several of its nuclear sites and military bases in JuneIts President Masoud Pezeshkian insisted last week that the country had no intention of developing nuclear weapons IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-confirms-reactivation-of-sanctions-on-iran-640727.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/israeli-warplanes-strike-hezbollah-targets-in-lebanon-640728.html Beirut Sep 29 Israeli warplanes struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon on Sunday the Israeli military and Lebanese sources said marking the latest flareup along the IsraelLebanon border despite a ceasefire reached last year Lebanons staterun National News Agency reported that Israeli aircraft carried out multiple raids on areas around Kfar Remen and AlJarmaq firing airtoground missiles that triggered powerful explosions A drone also targeted a house in Houmine alFawqa near Nabatieh while other drones flew at low altitude over nearby villages Xinhua news agency reportedSecurity sources told Xinhua the strikes hit Hezbollah positions that had previously been targeted adding that at least six raids were conducted within 15 minutes around Nabatieh There were no immediate reports of casualtiesThe Israeli military said its forces struck weapons depots used by Hezbollah to advance and carry out terror attacks against the State of Israel Military spokesperson Avichay Adraee wrote on X that the presence of such infrastructure violated understandings between Israel and LebanonA US and Frenchbrokered ceasefire in November 2024 ended 14 months of crossborder fighting sparked by the Gaza conflict Israel has continued to carry out strikes in Lebanon saying they are needed to counter Hezbollah threatsA ceasefire was reached following a yearlong cycle of crossborder attacks between Hezbollah and Israel that began in October 2023 The conflict escalated into a fullscale Israeli offensive by September 2024 resulting in more than 4000 deaths and around 17000 injuries IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/israeli-warplanes-strike-hezbollah-targets-in-lebanon-640728.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korean-ex-president-yoon-absent-from-insurrection-trial-for-12th-consecutive-session-640735.html Seoul Sep 29 Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was absent from his insurrection trial for the 12th consecutive session Monday despite having appeared for a separate trial last week In a notice to the press Yoons lawyers said the former president has been feeling dizzy and vomiting since attending last weeks hearing making it difficult for him to appearThe bench overseeing his case at the Seoul Central District Court said it will proceed with the trial in his absence in line with the Criminal Procedure Code Yonhap news agency reportedUnder the code a trial can proceed without the jailed defendant in the event they are absent without legitimate grounds and it is deemed impossible or significantly difficult for a prison officer to bring them in by forceYoon has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power through his shortlived imposition of martial law in December though he has refused to attend the proceedings since being placed under arrest in JulyYoon did appear at the first hearing of a separate trial on martial lawrelated charges last Friday as it was a legal prerequisite for the start of a new trialHe also attended a court hearing the same day on his request for bail during which he appealed for his release IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korean-ex-president-yoon-absent-from-insurrection-trial-for-12th-consecutive-session-640735.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-rises-to-4-in-us-michigan-church-shooting-640736.html Michigan Sep 29 At least four people were killed and eight others injured on Sunday after a shooter targeted a church and set the building aflame in Grand Blanc Michigan authorities said The incident occurred early Sunday local time at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints a small community northwest of DetroitTwo additional bodies were recovered through debris at the burneddown church police said Sunday evening after the death toll rose to two from one in the afternoonGrand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye told a press conference that the shooter drove his car into the church during a large service and opened fire on the crowd with an assault rifle reports Xinhua news agencyThe police chief said that the gunman identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford 40 a former US Marine deliberately set fire to the churchThe suspect a veteran who served in Iraq was killed by police after exchanging gunfire at the church according to policeRenye said that investigators will search the shooters home and phone records to determine his motiveEarlier local police said in a statement that there were multiple victims in the shooting and the entire church was on fire urging people to avoid the area as emergency response efforts continued The wounded including children have been transported to local hospitalsUS President Donald Trump said in a post on social media that he has been briefed on the horrendous church shootingHe said that the shooting appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America and that the FBI was on the scene This epidemic of violence in our country must end immediatelyMichigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said that she was receiving updates on the shooting in Grand BlancMy heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community Whitmer wrote in a post on social media platform X Violence anywhere especially in a place of worship is unacceptable IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/death-toll-rises-to-4-in-us-michigan-church-shooting-640736.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-budget-outcome-shows-deficit-over-11-billion-lower-than-forecast-640763.html Sydney Sep 29 The Australian government released the final budget outcome for the 202425 financial year on Monday with a final deficit of about 18 billion Australian dollars about 118 billion US dollars lower than previously forecast Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher handed down the annual budget outcome on Monday revealing a final underlying cash deficit of just under 10 billion Australian dollars or 04 per cent of gross domestic product GDP at the end of the 202425 financial year on June 30 reports Xinhua news agencyThe governments Preelection Economic and Fiscal Outlook PEFO 2025 released earlier this year forecast a deficit of 279 billion Australian dollars for 202425 The 2022 PEFO forecast a deficit of 471 billion Australian dollars in 202425Chalmers and Gallagher said in a joint statement that final budget outcomes have been a combined 209 billion Australian dollars better than projected since the governing Labor Party won power at the 2022 electionIn dollar terms weve made more progress on the budget in three years than any government in history they saidIts a reminder that we have one of the strongest budgets in the G20They attributed the improved position to a stronger labour market saying that more Australians were working more and earning moreAustralias gross debt was 9286 billion Australian dollars 335 per cent of GDP at the end of the 202425 financial year The 2022 PEFO forecast that gross debt would hit about 112 trillion Australian dollars in 202425Meanwhile a new report showed that an Australian national biobank platform for streamlining access to human biospecimens and data for biomedical research could deliver 39 million Australian dollars about 2562 million US dollars worth of annual benefitsThese benefits would stem from improved coordination across Australian biobanks and cohort studies enhancing research efficiency and outcomes according to the report released Monday by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization CSIRO Australias national science agency IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-budget-outcome-shows-deficit-over-11-billion-lower-than-forecast-640763.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/from-dhaka-to-ankara-isi-pushes-bangladesh-into-new-strategic-axis-against-india-640766.html New Delhi Sep 29 Bangladesh which is facing turmoil following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government is now cozying up to Turkey Turkey roped in Bangladesh at the behest of the ISI Pakistan with the broader intention of attracting the South Asian Muslim community The JamaateIslami at the behest of the ISI coaxed the Muhammad Yunus government to stitch a closer alliance with Turkey The intention is to ensure that there is a flow of funds and arms and ammunition from Turkey into BangladeshThe Indian agencies say that Bangladesh has become the fourthlargest buyer of Turkish weapons This is a worrying sign because the weapons would be used against India and this is what the Jamaat and ISI have been planning While India has all the capabilities to beat down such aggression the problem is that the armed forces would have to deal with an unwanted issueTies between India and Bangladesh were solid as long as Sheikh Hasina was in power The border was largely secure and the forces of both sides would work seamlesslyAfter Yunus was made caretaker of the interim government of Bangladesh the trust issues with India have become immense Yunus has only pointed out that the ties have worsened because India provided Hasina asylum The ISI has been ruling the roost in Bangladesh as it can control Yunus through the JamaatWhile the rising ISI presence in Bangladesh has kept the Indian agencies on its toes this new dimension with Turkey jumping into the picture is a major cause for concernTurkey has always been a backer of both Pakistan and on several occasions supported Bangladesh where the Rohingya refugee issues are concerned Signs of the bond between the two countries strengthening were visible when a Turkish delegation led by Haluk Gorgun president of the Defence Industry Agency met with Yunus and other heads of the Bangladesh armed forces The two sides discussed defence cooperation and procurement of equipment that included the Bayraktar TB2 drones TRG300 rocket systems artillery shells infantry rifles and machine gunsFurther Turkey also assured that it would build two defence complexes in Narayanganj and Chittagong These developments have given terror organisations in Bangladesh a major boost Despite Pakistan carrying out the Pahalgam attack Turkey has always backed Islamabad When the Indian armed forces carried out Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam attack Turkey had openly backed PakistanRadical elements in Bangladesh feel that they would always have the backing of Turkey even if they provoke India with a terror strike These developments also come in the backdrop of terror outfits such as the Ansarullah Bangla Team JamaatulMujahideen and HarkatulJihadIslami Bangladesh raising their ugly head in recent months Many leaders of these outfits were released from jail despite committing heinous crimes in the aftermath of the Hasina ousterIndian agencies say that it was evident that these decisions to release leaders of proscribed terror groups were taken by Yunus only at the behest of the Jamaat The Jamaat has always propagated violence against India and has worked closely with the ISI to create problems for IndiaFollowing the Liberation War both the Jamaat and ISI had planned on largescale illegal immigration with the intention of creating demographic changes that would lead to communal tensions in IndiaIntelligence Bureau officials say that this new alignment comprising Bangladesh Turkey and Pakistan is a worrying signal These defence agreements should be seen in a broader light as there is every chance that they may go into the wrong handsAlthough the Bangladesh army realises its limitations when it comes to fighting the Indian armed forces the issue is that today the ISI calls the shots The Pakistani spy agency with the help of the Jamaat would encourage radical terror groups to carry out attacks in India They feel that they would have Ankaras back in the event of India retaliating against any attack on its soil IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/from-dhaka-to-ankara-isi-pushes-bangladesh-into-new-strategic-axis-against-india-640766.html Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-russia-ties-not-defined-by-oil-but-is-privileged-strategic-partnership-fm-lavrov-640623.html United Nations Sep 28 Russias Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says his countrys relation with India is not defined by oil purchases but is a particularly privileged strategic partnership Asked at his news conference here on Saturday about US pressures on India against buying Russian oil he said I cant consider them a criteria for relations between India and the Russian FederationWe have strategic partnership as we call it for a long time strategic partnership relations he said Now we call it a particularly privileged strategic partnershipIndias leaders he said are perfectly capable of making these decisions for themselves and publiclyWe have full respect for the national interests of India full respect for the foreign policy that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is carrying out to promote these national interests he saidUS President Donald Trump has imposed a 25 per cent punitive tariff on India for buying Russian oil and is pressuring it to stop the purchasesRussias relations with India cover a broad range he saidWe have a very extensive bilateral agenda trade military technical cooperation finance humanitarian matters healthcare hightech Artificial Intelligence he saidAnd of course there is close coordination at the international level within the SCO Shanghai Cooperation Organisation BRICS and bilaterally he saidHe spoke about the recent meeting between Russias President Vladimir Putin and PM Modi in Tianjin China at the SCO summit and Putins planned visit to India in DecemberThe issue of oil or trade doesnt figure in the diplomatic discussions with India he assertedIm not even asking what is going to happen to our trade relations or oil he saidI dont ask our Indian colleagues about this he said mentioning his meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday and their forthcoming visits to each others countriesAfter Fridays meeting Jaishankar said on X that they had useful discussion on bilateral ties the Ukraine conflict and developments in the Middle EastAlthough India has been singled out for the punitive tariff Turkiye is also a target in Trumps pressure campaign against Russian oilLavrov said that Turkiye told the US that if it wants to sell its oil it was ready to discuss the terms but what it buys from Russia or other countries thats our own businessI believe that that is a very worthy response shows that India like Turkey has selfrespect he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-russia-ties-not-defined-by-oil-but-is-privileged-strategic-partnership-fm-lavrov-640623.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 15:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/jaishankars-appearance-at-unga-replete-with-symbolism-640625.html United Nations Sep 28 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars appearance on the General Assemblys podium was replete with subtle political symbolism He started his speech on Saturday with Namaskar from the people of Bharat And he referred to the country as Bharat seven times in his speech even though he also interspersed it with IndiaIn the two references to Prime Minister Narendra Modi he made it a point to use Bharat Bharat under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi realising its duties and The last decade in Bharat has also seen transformative changes due to the vision of Prime Minister ModiA saffron kerchief was prominent on the pocket of the gray bandhgalla with a black lining around the neck that Jaishankar woreHe said Bharat is guided by three key concepts in its approach to the world Atmanirbharta or selfreliance Atmaraksha or securing oneself and Atmavishwas or selfconfidenceWhat he left unsaid was also significant The names of three countriesHe laid a trap for Pakistan by not mentioning its name when he spoke about a neighbour that is an epicentre of global terrorismPakistan walked into the trapBy looking to pour venom on India with a right of reply Pakistan admitted that it was the country that Jaishankar said is the epicentre of terrorism India had the last laughIt is telling that a neighbor who was not named chose to nevertheless respond and admit their longstanding practice of crossborder terrorism Second Secretary Rentala Srinivas saidNo arguments or untruths can ever whitewash the crimes of Terroristan he saidPakistan got entangled a second time when it admitted that it was TerroristanPakistan Missions Second Secretary Muhammad Rashid took the floor again to object to what he said was India distorting the name of a country India staged a walkoutJaishankar also avoided naming the US or President Donald Trump when he spoke about tariffs and restrictions on H1B professional visasWe now see tariff volatility and uncertain market access he said He referred to the H1B issue saying Restricting the evolution of a global workplace is an issueAnd there was a mention of double standards the imposition of a punitive tariff on India for buying Russian oil but not othersNot naming Trump or the US helps cool the rhetoric and keep a diplomatic tone at a time when trade talks are at a delicate stageThere was also a swipe at China which is weaponising critical minerals without mentioning BeijingThe grip on supply chains and critical minerals is another The shaping of connectivity is no less sensitive Jaishankar said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/jaishankars-appearance-at-unga-replete-with-symbolism-640625.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-walks-out-of-unga-as-pakistan-delivers-venomous-speech-admitting-to-being-terroristan-640630.html United Nations Sep 28 India staged a walkout from the General Assembly as Pakistan sprayed venom against India while making the admission it is Terroristan It also acknowledged on Saturday that it was the epicentre of global terrorismIn a call to the General Assembly for action against terrorism External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said India has confronted this challenge since independence having a neighbour that is an epicentre of global terrorismHe did not name Pakistan laying a trap for it and it walked right inA second secretary in its UN Mission Muhammad Rashid exercised the right of reply to Jaishankars address and said it was an attempt to malign PakistanIndia came right back on to enmesh him in his own rhetoricIt is telling that a neighbour who was not named chose to nevertheless respond and admit their longstanding practice of cross border terrorism Rentala Srinivas a second secretary in Indias UN Mission saidPakistans reputation speaks for itself he said taking the opening Its fingerprints are so visible in terrorism across so many geographies its a menace not only to its neighbours but to the entire worldNo arguments or untruths can ever whitewash the crimes of Terroristan he added without naming PakistanBut Rashid came back furiously admitting that Pakistan was TerroristanStan is a generic Perisanderived word for place of or home of and is found in the names of several countries and placesProtesting the use of the word Terroristan Rashid said India was distorting the very name of a country a member of the United NationIndia walked out of the Assembly Hall as he spokeIt is a common practice at the UN for countries to not exercise their right of reply if they were not directly named even if they can be identified from innuendos or from subtle hintsReacting angrily in public and on the record amounts to an acknowledgement that they were the ones against whom an accusation or an unpleasant reference was being madeIn his carefully crafted speech Jaishankar said For decades now major international terrorist attacks are traced back to that one country UNs designated lists of terrorists are replete with its nationalsDropping a hint he added The most recent example of crossborder barbarism was the murder of innocent tourists in Pahalgam in April this yearAnd in defence of Operation Sindoor without using the name he said India exercised its right to defend its people against terrorism and brought its organizers and perpetrators to justiceBecause terrorism is a shared threat it is essential that there is much deeper international cooperation he saidWhen nations openly declare terrorism as state policy when terror hubs operate on an industrial scale when terrorists are publicly glorified then such actions must be unequivocally condemned he saidThose who condone nations that sponsor terror will find that it comes back to bite them he warned IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-walks-out-of-unga-as-pakistan-delivers-venomous-speech-admitting-to-being-terroristan-640630.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/three-killed-several-injured-in-mass-shooting-in-us-state-north-carolina-640633.html North Carolina Sep 28 An active shooter opened fire from a boat at a restaurant in North Carolina killing at least three people and leaving several others injured before fleeing the scene authorities confirmed The shooting occurred around 930 pm on Saturday local time at the American Fish Company a popular pub and restaurant located at 150 Yacht Basin Drive in the Southport Yacht Basin area about 20 miles south of WilmingtonAccording to police at least seven people were shot during the attack including three who were pronounced dead at the sceneThe other victims were transported to local hospitals though officials have not yet released details about their conditionsCity Manager Noah Saldo confirmed that a boat pulled up to the restaurant and began firing into the crowd before speeding awaySeveral people were taken to the hospital he said adding that the figures may change as emergency crews continue their responseThe city administration urged residents to stay away from the area remain indoors and immediately report any suspicious activity to 911A public statement reiterated that while injuries had been confirmed the exact number remained uncertainAvoid the area and remain in your homes Please report any suspicious activity immediately to 911 the statement readThe Brunswick County Sheriffs Office confirmed they were assisting the Southport Police Department in handling the unfolding situationThe Brunswick County Sheriffs Office is assisting the City of Southport Police Department along with multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the county Please keep all those affected as well as our first responders in your thoughts and prayers the sheriffs office statedChatter over emergency scanners suggested multiple fatalities beyond the confirmed toll though officials have not verified those claimsThe situation which unfolded near the American Fish Company remains under investigation with authorities continuing to search for the suspect IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/three-killed-several-injured-in-mass-shooting-in-us-state-north-carolina-640633.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-military-moves-threaten-peace-security-in-caribbean-cuban-fm-640648.html United Nations Sep 28 The threat of war looms large over the Caribbean Sea with an extraordinary and absolutely unjustified US naval and air buildup said Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla Addressing the annual general debate of the UN General Assembly UNGA on Saturday Rodriguez said the United States uses the pretext of combating crime and drug trafficking for its military presence in the Caribbean A story that no one believes Xinhua news agency reportedThe attack and destruction of unregistered or unchartered course speedboats the extrajudicial murder or execution of civilians the interdiction of fishing vessels or boats and the aggressive actions of the United States create a dangerous situation that violates International Law and threatens regional peace and security he saidRodriguez also condemned the US blockade against Cuba which he described as tightened to the extremes and constituted a prolonged economic warMeanwhile Rodriguez said that despite its limitations the United Nations remains the most representative body of the international communityIn September the United States began moving troops to the southern Caribbean claiming the mission was aimed at combating drug trafficking But President Donald Trumps statements came with explicit threats against Maduros governmentTensions have escalated in recent weeks after US officials ratcheted up their rhetoric White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said Washington would use all its force against Venezuela IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-military-moves-threaten-peace-security-in-caribbean-cuban-fm-640648.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/new-york-may-no-longer-be-fit-to-host-un-headquarters-colombian-president-640650.html Bogota Sep 28 Colombian President Gustavo Petro said Saturday that the US decision to revoke his visa underscores that New York may no longer be a suitable host for the United Nations headquarters The US decision violated the principle of immunity that underpins the United Nations said Petro while calling for respect for international law Xinhua news agency reportedOn Friday Petro joined a proPalestinian demonstration outside the UN headquarters in New York where he urged US soldiers not to turn their weapons against humanityDisobey Trumps orders Obey the orders of humanity he saidIn response the US State Department said on the same day on social media that we will revoke Petros visa due to his reckless and incendiary actionsOn Saturday Petro said on social media that he no longer holds a US visa adding I dont careThere is total immunity for presidents who attend the UN General Assembly he wrote on XThe Colombian president also criticized Washington for preventing Palestinian representatives from attending the UN General Assembly and renewed his call for the international community to stop the humanitarian disaster in GazaDenying entry to the Palestinian Authority and revoking my visa for asking the US and Israeli armies not to support genocide which is a crime against humanity as a whole shows the US government no longer complies with international law he saidPetro further urged US President Donald Trump to reconsider his support for Israels military actions in Gaza saying the United States can not achieve greatness by killing defenseless babies IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/new-york-may-no-longer-be-fit-to-host-un-headquarters-colombian-president-640650.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/iran-slams-us-europe-as-nuclear-deal-sanctions-set-to-resume-640658.html Tehran Sep 28 Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the United States is the main obstacle to reviving the 2015 nuclear deal as UN sanctions lifted under the pact were set to be reimposed later in the day Speaking at Tehran airport after returning from the UN General Assembly in New York Pezeshkian said France Britain and Germany who triggered the snapback mechanism had been told of Irans readiness to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency during his visit to the UN Xinhua news agency reportedThe United States always attempts to prevent the achievement of an agreement by raising fresh pretexts he said The reality is that the United States cannot tolerate a strong Iran and wants to weaken our countryLast month the three European powers invoked the snapback clause of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOA restoring UN sanctions that had been lifted in exchange for limits on Tehrans nuclear programAhead of the measures taking effect Iran recalled its ambassadors to the three capitals Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Saturday the snapback was illegal void and has no standing blaming the crisis on US betrayal and Europes inactionThe US betrayed diplomacy The Europeans buried it he saidThe JCPOA signed in 2015 between Iran and six world powers has been under strain since Washington withdrew in 2018 prompting Tehran to gradually scale back compliance IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/iran-slams-us-europe-as-nuclear-deal-sanctions-set-to-resume-640658.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/from-trainers-to-commanders-pakistan-army-takes-direct-control-of-jem-let-hizbul-training-640672.html New Delhi Sep 28 Pakistan is making all attempts to revive three terror groups which were badly hit during Operation Sindoor The focus is completely on the JaisheMohammad LashkareTaiba and Hizbul Mujahideen In order to ensure that the three terror groups have better operational capabilities the Pakistan Army has decided to deploy its own officials to train the new recruits This is a major shift from how terror groups used to function earlier where the commander who was trained by the Pakistan Army would oversee the operations of the campAll the training camps of these terror groups will now be headed by a Major rank officer Further all these camps have been provided protection by the Pakistan ArmyIn addition to having the Pakistan Army directly oversee every operation of these camps the ISI is also ensuring a technology boost All these terror camps would have stateoftheart technologyThe ISI is ensuring that the new camps will shift from conventional arms to hightech modern weaponry The ISI is also arming these terror groups with hightech drone technology which has the capability of striking in Jammu and KashmirFurther these terror groups would also extensively use digital warfare tools With the Pakistan Army officials directly overseeing every operation from recruitment to training attempts are being made to provide these terror groups with weapons that could be directly launched into IndiaThis signals a major shift in the manner in which these terror groups would operate in future Officials say that there are many reasons for such a shift being madeFirstly the ISI does not want these camps to be hit once again during an Indian operation Secondly Pakistan wants its terror groups to have the capabilities to strike India from within their own country Third it wants to keep the Indian Army distracted by these terror groups so that the Pakistan Army can deal with problems that it is facing from the Balochistan Nationalist Army BLA and TehreekeTaliban TTPGiven the current commitments that Pakistan has made to both the US and China in terms of security in Balochistan it would want to focus more on the TTP and BLA rather than engage with the Indian ArmyPakistan which has signed a minerals deal with the US is under pressure to secure Balochistan Pakistan has also committed to China that it will ensure the security of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor Project 20 CPEC and to honour this commitment it has to rein in both the TTP and BLAGiven the scenario that the Pakistan Army is in and with its leadership tomtomming about its ties with China and the US it has no option but to go back on its security guaranteesThe minerals deal with the US is crucial for Pakistan due to its failing economyFurther Pakistan has also been told by China to raise funds for CPEC 20 if it wants to be part of the project This has put Pakistan in a spot of bother as it will now have to raise funds and also ensure the security of the projectPakistan was put on notice by China as it had failed miserably to protect Chinese interests during the CPEC 1Given all these factors the Pakistan Army is investing heavily in its three terror groups It has been seeking donations in large numbers from people living in the Gulf nationsIn order to fulfil its task of modernising these terror groups with stateoftheart weapons capable of hitting India directly the ISI has decided to invest at least Rs 100 crore per terror group annuallyGiven the investments that are being made the Pakistan Army decided to take over and oversee every aspect of these terror groups This means that the heads of these groups would have only a limited role and that would be to brainwash and radicalise the youth so that they join their terror outfits IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/from-trainers-to-commanders-pakistan-army-takes-direct-control-of-jem-let-hizbul-training-640672.html Sun, 28 Sep 2025 16:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/in-trade-talks-with-us-india-pushes-for-less-than-20-per-cent-tariff-rate-sources-640521.html Washington Sep 27 As India and the United States agreed to continue trade negotiations sources told IANS that New Delhi is pressing for a tariff rate below 20 per cent The push for tariffs below 20 per cent is viewed as vital to safeguarding Indias competitiveness given that other South and Southeast Asian nations face US tariff rates between 1520 per centSources added that New Delhi is also pressing for the removal of the additional 25 per cent tariff on Russian oil purchases aligning with the Trump administrations view that European nations should curb their imports as well and reiterating that India should not be singled outExternal Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar in his speech at the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Thursday highlighted double standards over access to energy and food suppliesThe costs to the Global South in terms of energy food and fertiliser security were starkly demonstrated by ongoing conflicts particularly in Ukraine and Gaza Apart from jeopardising supplies and logistics access and costing themselves these became pressure points on nations Double standards are clearly in evidence he addedJaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday in New York After the talks Rubio said that India is of critical value to his country and welcomed the ongoing interaction in tradeJaishankar also posted on X Our conversation covered a range of bilateral and international issues of current concern Agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areasOn Friday the Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were also part of the discussionsIn the meeting the External Affairs Minister and Secretary of State were joined by the Commerce and Industry Minister from our side and the United States Trade Representative USTR from the American side We also had several officials participating in that meeting The focus of the discussion was on trade and tariffs Other aspects of the bilateral relationship were also discussed said Jaiswal while addressing a weekly media briefing in New DelhiA statement by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry also said that the Indian delegation had constructive meetings with the US government on various aspects of the dealBoth sides exchanged views on possible contours of the deal and it was decided to continue the engagements with a view to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement it addedA day after the meeting with Jaishankar Rubio indicated that the Trump administration may be willing to fix the additional 25 per cent tariffs imposed on India over its purchases of Russian oilIn an interview with NBC News Rubio spoke about the US measures to end the conflict in Ukraine and hoped its additional tariffs against India could be fixedWe have already seen the measures we have taken with regards to India although thats something we hope we can fix he saidRubio blamed the European countries for not doing enough to end the conflict in UkraineThe MEA spokesperson also reiterated Indias stand on the purchase of Russian energy saying that there cannot be any double standard in the matter and highlighted the Trump administrations statements that called on the EU NATO and G7 countries to stop buying Russian oil and gas IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/in-trade-talks-with-us-india-pushes-for-less-than-20-per-cent-tariff-rate-sources-640521.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-security-council-fails-to-adopt-resolution-on-extension-of-iran-nuclear-deal-640522.html United Nations Sep 27 The UN Security Council failed to adopt a resolution that would have extended the 2015 Iran nuclear deal for six months to allow time for diplomacy The draft resolution tabled by China and Russia won four votes in favor and nine votes against with two abstentions failing to get the nine positive votes required for adoption Xinhua news agency reportedIf adopted the draft resolution would have extended the nuclear deal between Iran and the six countries of Britain China France Germany Russia and the United States as well as Security Council Resolution 2231 that endorsed the deal for six months and would have prevented a snapback of UN sanctions against IranFridays voting result was exactly the same as that on September 19 on a draft resolution put forward by the Republic of Korea in its capacity as Security Council president for the month of September which if adopted would have continued to provide sanctions relief for IranAlgeria China Pakistan and Russia voted in favor of Fridays draft resolution Guyana and the Republic of Korea abstained The remaining nine members of the Security Council voted against itBritain France and Germany the three European countries in the Iran nuclear deal formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOA claimed they triggered the snapback mechanism on August 28 by notifying the Security Council of Tehrans nonperformanceUnder Resolution 2231 the UN sanctions in place before the resolutions adoption would resume 30 days after the notification unless the Security Council adopts a resolution to decide otherwise The September 19 draft resolution to that effect failedHowever the legality of the three countries move has been questioned as it has skipped the Dispute Resolution Mechanism DRM provided for in the JCPOA and Resolution 2231Under the JCPOA and Resolution 2231 the DRM has 35 days to resolve the disagreement A snapback can be triggered only after the DRM fails to resolve the issueResolution 2231 expires on October 18 2025 after which time the Security Council would stop considering the Iran nuclear deal IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-security-council-fails-to-adopt-resolution-on-extension-of-iran-nuclear-deal-640522.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/hungary-rejects-zelenskys-claim-of-drone-airspace-violation-640523.html Budapest Sep 27 Hungary firmly rejected a claim by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that Hungarian reconnaissance drones may have violated Ukraines airspace Zelensky wrote earlier on the social media platform X that Ukrainian forces had recorded violations of the countrys airspace by reconnaissance drones which are likely Hungarian and that preliminary assessments suggested the flights may have targeted Ukraines border industrial areasHungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto has strongly denied the allegation Writing on his Facebook page Szijjarto said Zelensky is losing himself in antiHungarian sentiments and is chasing phantomsRelations between Budapest and Kyiv have been marked by recurring tensions in recent years Hungary has repeatedly criticised Ukrainian attacks against the Druzhba oil pipeline a key route for its energy supplies from Russia and has raised concerns over the rights of the ethnic Hungarian minority in Ukraines Transcarpathian region Xinhua news agency reportedAt the same time Hungary is strongly opposed to Ukraines EU accession process citing the need for guarantees on the protection of its minorities but also the negative impact Ukraines accession would have on the EUs agriculture subsidy systemHighlevel exchanges have remained strained with both sides often trading accusations in public statementsDespite these disputes Hungary has provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine since the outbreak of the armed conflict in February 2022 opening its borders to refugees and even setting up a Ukrainianlanguage school for the refugee children IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/hungary-rejects-zelenskys-claim-of-drone-airspace-violation-640523.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/56-magnitude-quake-hits-chinas-gansu-640534.html Lanzhou Sep 27 A 56magnitude earthquake struck Longxi County in Dingxi City in northwest Chinas Gansu Province at 549 am on Saturday according to the China Earthquake Networks Centre CENC The epicentre was monitored at 3491 degrees north latitude and 10458 degrees east longitude The earthquake struck at a depth of 10 km the CENC saidThe quake was strongly felt in Longxi County Zhangxian County Weiyuan County and Lintao County in Dingxi City and Wushan County in Tianshui CityNo casualties have been reported according to the local government Local people said that some houses in the rural area of Longxi were damagedLocal firefighting and rescue authorities have dispatched rescue teams and vehicles to the affected areas with information on the impact still being gatheredFollowing the quake the China Earthquake Administration launched a levelIII emergency service response urging strengthened monitoring and assessment of the situation as well as timely updatesThe office of the State Council earthquake relief headquarters and the Ministry of Emergency Management also initiated a levelIV emergency response for earthquakes and sent a work team to the quakehit areas to support local quakerelief efforts Xinhua news agency reportedRescuers from Chinas national comprehensive fire and rescue teams have arrived at the epicentre according to the emergency management ministry Meanwhile 200 rescuers and 28 vehicles from the local fire and rescue forces and 26 personnel of specialised rescue teams with 7 vehicles are on their wayEarlier in June a 50magnitude earthquake struck Eryuan County in Bai Autonomous Prefecture of Dali southwest Chinas Yunnan ProvinceThe epicentre was monitored at 2626 degrees north latitude and 10003 degrees east longitude The quake struck at a depth of 10 km said a report issued by the CENCThe quake was strongly felt in Eryuan County Dali City and Heqing County waking some residents China experiences earthquakes because the Indian tectonic plate is constantly colliding with and pushing into the Eurasian tectonic plate This ongoing collision which began about 50 to 60 million years ago and formed the Himalayas builds up immense stress in the Earths crust IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/56-magnitude-quake-hits-chinas-gansu-640534.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-voices-serious-concerns-with-russia-over-military-alignment-with-north-korea-640549.html Seoul Sep 27 South Koreas Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and discussed security issues related to the Korean Peninsula the foreign ministry said on Saturday During the meeting held in New York the previous day local time on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly Cho briefed Lavrov on Seouls North Korea policy aimed at easing tensions and building trust with North Korea to ultimately promote peace and stability on the peninsula the ministry said in a statementCho also voiced serious concerns over Russias continued military cooperation with North Korea calling for an end to it the ministry saidThe ministry statement did not provide further details but Russian news agency Ria Novosti reported that Lavrov during the meeting denounced the US and its Asian allies military activities targeting North KoreaLavrov highlighted the provocative nature of the activities as well as sanctions and pressure on the North calling the return to a mutually respectful dialogue the only path to building a trustful mechanism to ensure peace in Northeast Asia the report said citing the Russian foreign ministryCho also called for Russias attention to protecting South Korean residents and stressed the importance of fostering a favourable environment for South Korean firms operating in the country his ministry saidBoth ministers agreed to continue necessary communications in the future Yonhap news agency reportedThe meeting marks the first formal bilateral talks between the two countries top diplomats since the outbreak of the RussiaUkraine war in 2022 although Lavrov held a brief meeting with then Foreign Minister Cho Taeyul on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations ASEAN gathering in Laos in JulyLast year Former South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Taeyul had expressed concerns over growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia saying it could potentially help Pyongyangs ability to threaten security on the Korean Peninsula and beyondCho had made the remarks during a UN Security Council UNSC briefing on the Ukraine issue at UN headquarters in New York on the eve of the second anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-voices-serious-concerns-with-russia-over-military-alignment-with-north-korea-640549.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/g4-reaffirms-strong-support-for-common-african-positions-permanent-membership-in-unsc-640567.html New York Sep 27 The Group of Four G4 countries have reaffirmed their strong support for the Common African Position CAP as enshrined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration A Common African Position CAP is the African Unions AU unified strategic framework and collective voice for addressing global issues advocating for Africas priorities and influencing international negotiationsThis position known as the Ezulwini Consensus highlights Africas exclusion from the UNs permanent membership advocating for at least two permanent seats for Africa on the Security CouncilThe G4 members including India Brazil Japan and Germany reaffirmed their strong support for the CAP on September 25 on the sidelines of the UNGA sessionExternal Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar and his counterparts from the G4 countries Mauro Vieira of Brazil Johann Wadephul of Germany and Iwaya Takeshi of Japan held discussions to review the progress and discuss prospects for reform of the UN Security CouncilA comprehensive reform of the Security Council is in the best interest of all The G4 Ministers reaffirmed the willingness and capability of the G4 countries as democracies sharing common political values including respect for the rule of law full adherence to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and commitment to multilateralism to shoulder the Security Councils primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security the G4 joint statement addedThey also reiterated their mutual support for each others bid to permanent membership in a reformed United Nations UN Security Council during a meeting on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New YorkAccording to the G4 Ministerial joint statement the Foreign Ministers emphasised that amid increasing instability in the international order and with the UN the centre of multilateralism increasingly incapable of fulfilling its role it is crucial to reform the Security Council at the earliestSuch reform it said should truly reflect the contemporary geopolitical realities thereby enhancing its representativeness legitimacy effectiveness and efficiencyThe G4 Ministers underscored that the expansion of the UN Security Council in both permanent and nonpermanent categories of membership is essential to Security Council reform and that this position is supported by a majority of Member States it saidThe G4 Ministers concurred on the need to enhance the role and participation of developing countries and those significantly contributing to international peace and security in the Security Council in both membership categories read the statementThe G4 ministers reiterated the importance of improving the representation of the underrepresented and unrepresented regions and groups such as Africa AsiaPacific and Latin America and the Caribbean in both membership categoriesThe G4 ministers urged the international community to engage wholeheartedly in efforts during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly while committing themselves to further outreach and working in good faith with the wider UN membership to advance UN Security Council reform as part of a comprehensive UN reform IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/g4-reaffirms-strong-support-for-common-african-positions-permanent-membership-in-unsc-640567.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/floods-affect-42-million-in-pakistans-punjab-province-leaders-busy-politicising-relief-efforts-640582.html Islamabad Sep 27 More than 42 million people have been affected by monsoon floods in Pakistans Punjab province with southern districts bearing the brunt according to a rapid needs assessment released by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs UNOCHA on Friday The survey conducted jointly with the provincial government from September 8 to 18 covered nearly 2000 villages in 18 floodaffected districtsThe assessment found that around 28 million people were displaced about 161700 houses were damaged and health and education infrastructure also suffered extensive damageAccording to Pakistans National Disaster Management Authority around three million people were rescued or evacuated between June 26 and September 19 nationwide Floods also damaged 12559 houses and killed 6509 livestockPakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier announced a doubling of exgratia compensation for the families of those who lost their lives in the floods raising the amount from one million rupees to two million rupees about 7000 US dollars Xinhua news agency reportedMeanwhile Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal BhuttoZardari and Punjab provinces Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz have been severely criticised for politicising flood relief in the face of one of the countrys most devastating seasons instead of presenting a united front to aid millions of affected citizensAccording to Pakistans leading Express Tribune the core of this political conflict is not about the most effective mechanism for aid but rather about claiming credit and asserting dominanceBilawal has dogmatically insisted that the Benazir Income Support Programme BISP is the sole method for providing immediate relief framing any rejection of it as an irresponsible attitude towards flood victims But Maryam fairly questioned how a significantly large amount would be distributed through BISP when standard payments through the system are only about Rs 10000 the Punjab CM wants to distribute 100 times that amount to flood victims the newspaper highlighted in an editorial on SaturdayOn the other side the CMs response has been equally partisan Even if we take her at her word that BISP is a very simplistic solution several statements in her recent presser appeared to be sharp unconstructive rebukes designed as sound bites for the evening news In times like these a good leader must put aside personal pride and do what is best for the country Starving and sickly people at relief camps dont care if Maryam is holding her head high or begging for foreign aid They just want some food shelter and medicine the Express Tribune editorial added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/floods-affect-42-million-in-pakistans-punjab-province-leaders-busy-politicising-relief-efforts-640582.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-shuts-afghan-refugee-camps-established-40-years-ago-640586.html Islamabad Sep 27 Pakistan has decided to close Afghan refugee camps that have been in operation for 40 years the local media reported on Saturday As many as five such facilities in the KhyberPakhtunkhwa KP province have been ordered to shut down as the Pakistani government continues its crackdown on Afghan refugeesThe five camps being closed in KP included three camps in Haripur district one in Chitral and one in Upper Dir The Panian camp in Haripur alone had housed more than 100000 refugees according to officials Pakistans leading daily Express Tribune reportedThe government started sending back undocumented Afghan refugees in October 2023 citing reasons of increasing crime and terrorism Earlier this week Defence Minister Khawaja Asif repeated that Afghan refugees were linked to terrorism in Balochistan and KP it addedEarlier this month UNHCR the UN Refugee Agency warned of a crisis within a crisis emerging in Afghanistan as lakhs of Afghans were forced out of Pakistan under adverse circumstances Afghanistan is currently struggling to recover from a devastating earthquake in many of the same areas where returnees are arrivingSince the start of the year some 26 million Afghans have returned from neighbouring countries many not by choice They are arriving in a country wracked by poverty and drought where humanitarian needs are already high Some have not set foot in Afghanistan for decades others were born in exile and are arriving for the first time read a statement issued by the UNHCRAs Pakistan resumes implementation of its Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan more than 554000 Afghans have returned since April including 143000 in August alone In recent weeks the pace has surged further in the first week of September alone nearly 100000 people crossed back from Pakistan stretching capacities to the limit it addedThe United Nations urged Pakistan to uphold its longstanding humanitarian approach to Afghan refugees including by extending legal stay for those still in need of international protection such as groups who face heightened risks upon their returnUNHCR stands ready to support the Government of Pakistan in developing practical mechanisms to identify individuals with ongoing protection needs and to expand regulated migration pathways for Afghans UNHCR Representative to Afghanistan Arafat Jamal said at a press briefing in Geneva on September 12 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-shuts-afghan-refugee-camps-established-40-years-ago-640586.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/byc-condemns-arbitrary-detention-of-its-leaders-activists-640593.html Quetta Sep 27 Human rights body Baloch Yakjehti Committee BYC strongly condemned the arbitrary detention of its chief Mahrang Baloch and other leaders and activists following the end of their 15day physical remand The remarks came after an antiterrorism court in Quetta rejected the request of Pakistans Counter Terrorism Department CTD to extend the physical remand of BYC chief Mahrang Baloch and other organisers local media reported citing the rights groups lawyerThe order passed by Judge Muhammad Ali Mubeen turned down the request to extend the physical remand and directed that the accused be sent to judicial custody Pakistani leading newspaper Dawn reportedThe BYC mentioned that after being subjected to arbitrary and unlawful deprivation of liberty for the past six months and repeated police remand the head of the BYC Mahrang Baloch along with central leaders Bebagar Baloch and Sibgatullah Shah Ji and activists Beebow Baloch and Gulzadi Baloch were transferred to Huda Jail in Quetta on judicial remandFor over three months they were held in Huda Jail Quetta under Maintenance of Public Order 3MPO without due process or effective judicial review Based on fabricated and politically motivated charges they were subsequently rearrested and repeatedly remanded to police custody for more than two months without any legitimate legal justification Although their police remand has now ended they continue to be held on judicial remand in Huda Prison Quetta the statement addedAccording to the BYC these human rights defenders have been targeted solely for exercising their rights to freedom of expression association and peaceful assembly They have spoken out against enforced disappearances extrajudicial killings and other serious human rights violations occurring in BalochistanThe rights body stressed that the use of arbitrary arrest and prolonged pretrial detention to silence dissent directly contravenes Pakistans obligations under international law including the UN Declaration on Human Rights DefendersThe BYC urged United Nations Special Procedures international human rights mechanisms and civil society actors to take urgent notice of this situation and press for Pakistans compliance with its international obligations including the protection of fundamental freedoms and the right to an effective remedy IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/byc-condemns-arbitrary-detention-of-its-leaders-activists-640593.html Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/factually-incorrect-entirely-baseless-india-slams-nato-chiefs-comments--640485.html New Delhi Sep 26 IANS India on Friday reacted strongly to NATO SecretaryGeneral Mark Ruttes comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the issue of tariffs imposed by the United States terming the statement as factually incorrect and entirely baselessnbspWe have seen the statement by NATO SecretaryGeneral Mr Mark Rutte regarding a purported phone conversation between Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin of Russia This statement is factually incorrect and entirely baseless At no point has Prime Minister Modi spoken with President Putin in the manner suggested No such conversation has taken place said Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on FridayWe expect the leadership of an important and esteemed institution like NATO to exercise greater responsibility and accuracy in public statements Speculative or careless remarks that misrepresent the Prime Ministers engagements or suggest conversations that never occurred are unacceptable he addednbspRutte while speaking to CNN journalist Christiane Amanpour on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly summit in New York had claimed that the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on India over Russian oil imports are having a major impact on MoscowThe former Prime Minister of the Netherlands mentioned that amid the US move of imposing 50 per cent tariffs on India Prime Minister Modi had reached out to Putin to seek clarity on his Ukraine strategynbspThis tariff immediately impacts Russia because that means Delhi is now on the phone with Vladimir Putin in Moscow and Narendra Modi is asking him I support you but could you explain to me your strategy because I have now been hit by these 50 per cent tariffs by the United States Rutte told AmanpournbspSlamming the NATO chiefs comments the MEA on Friday reiterated that India would continue to take decisions independently on energyAs previously stated Indias energy imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs to the Indian consumer India will continue taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security said JaiswalnbspIndia has previously cautioned the NATO chief against any double standards on sanctioning countries trading with RussiaIn July Rutte during his visit to Washington had stated that China India and Brazil could face severe economic sanctions if they continue doing business with RussianbspWe have seen reports on the subject and are closely following the developments Let me reiterate that securing the energy needs of our people is understandably an overriding priority for us In this endeavour we are guided by what is available in the markets and also by prevailing global circumstances We would particularly caution against any double standards on the matter Jaiswal had said during a regular media briefing on July 17 https://dailyworld.in/international/factually-incorrect-entirely-baseless-india-slams-nato-chiefs-comments--640485.html Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/netanyahu-rules-out-2-state-solution-denounces-emerging-western-support-for-palestine--640488.html United Nations Sep 26 IANS Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defiantly ruled out on Friday a twostate solution that would create an independent Palestinian state calling it suicidal for his countrynbspnbspHe called the Western nations including France Canada and Britain naive for recognising the Palestine state and denounced the General Assembly summit this week that overwhelmingly reaffirmed the twostate solution which calls for a sovereign Palestine alongside Israel both coexisting in peacenbspWe will not allow you to shove a terror state down our throats because of the media and other pressures they faced he told the Western countries that had earlier been unconditionally aligned with IsraelnbspTheir message was murdering Jews pays off he asserted citing the attacks on Jews around the worldNetanyahu warned that Israel would finish the job against Hamas in Gaza unless it laid down arms and released the remaining hostages taken in the attack on Israel in 2023 in which more than 1200 people were killednbspHamas has said it wouldnt and a massive Israeli incursion into Gaza to root out Hamas is underwaynbspFree the hostages now Netanyahu told Hamas from the podiumnbspIf you do you will live If you dont Israel will hunt you down he threatenednbspAs he was escorted to the podium several countries walked out of the Assembly hall while others who stayed on cheered himnbspNetanyahu who uses props to underline his points brought in a digital element this year sporting a QR code on his lapel that he said would lead to a site showing the Hamas atrocities against IsraelisnbspHe also held a pop quiz with a placard asking the audience to answer a question about who hates Israel Answer All the groups and countries on his list that included terrorist groups and IrannbspThere were demonstrations for and against Netanyahu outside the UNnbspAt the Dag Hammarskjold Plaza across from the UN groups held a vigil for the victims of the Hamas attack with floral tributes for them and displayed pictures of the hostages still held by Hamas demanding their releaseElsewhere raucous proPalestine and proHamas protesters accused him of genocidenbspIn his speech Netanyahu dismissed the genocide allegations outside and in the Assembly as paving the way for antiSemitismnbspHe said that before Israel took any action it notified the civilians to leave the areas and if it was intent on genocide it would not have tried to avoid civilian casualtiesnbspHe asked if those who carried out the genocide of Jews had asked them to leave before the attacksnbspHe denied that Israel was denying food to the people of Gaza and said that it had sent tonnes of food and essential supplies and it was Hamas that was responsible for the hunger because it looted the food and prevented them from reaching the peopleNetanyahu likened the calls for a Palestinian nation to creating an alQaeda nation a mile from New York after it carried out the 911 attacks in 2001nbspPalestinians would not keep their word when they said their nation would be peaceful he saidnbspPalestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in his speech on Thursday denounced Hamas and demanded the release of hostagesnbspHe said that Palestinians are not for an armed state and recognise IsraelnbspWhile Netanyahu reserved his harshest words for Iran whose proxies in the region were being contained he said that Israel was holding talks with Syria to normalise relations which would have been unthinkable in the past https://dailyworld.in/international/netanyahu-rules-out-2-state-solution-denounces-emerging-western-support-for-palestine--640488.html Fri, 26 Sep 2025 22:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-holds-high-level-special-event-on-climate-action-640322.html United Nations Sep 25 A highlevel special event on climate action was held at the United Nations headquarters in New York In his opening remarks on Wednesday local time UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres said thanks to the Paris Agreement the projected global temperature rise in the past 10 years has dropped from four degrees Celsius to less than three if current nationally determined contributions NDCs are fully implementedNow we need new plans for 2035 that go much further and much faster delivering dramatic emissions cuts aligned with 15 degrees Celsius covering all emissions and sectors and accelerating a just energy transition globally Guterres saidThe UN chief said that China met its 2030 wind and solar target six years ahead of schedule and India reached 50 per cent electricity capacity from nonfossil fuels five years earlyCOP30 in Brazil must conclude with a credible global response plan to get us on track he said listing five areas as crucial energy while fossil fuels still dominate the clean energy transition must be supercharged methane a potent global heating gas drastic cuts of which in this decade are essential forests the destruction of natures greatest carbon sinks must be ended heavy industry important advances in technologies have helped cut emissions from steel and cement and heavy transport and climate justiceGuterres called for urgent action to unlock funds for developing countries to seize clean energy benefits and protect lives and economies reports Xinhua news agencyGiven the pace and scale of the climate crisis growing across the globe the UN secretarygeneral is convening the climate summit held on the sidelines of the general debate of the UN General Assembly to serve as a platform for world leaders to present their new national climate action plans and seize the benefits of the new clean energy eraBy COP30 scheduled for November in Belem Brazil all parties to the Paris Agreement must submit new NDCs that reflect bold action for the next decade IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-holds-high-level-special-event-on-climate-action-640322.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-stresses-need-to-ensure-human-control-of-ai-over-use-of-force-640347.html United Nations Sep 25 UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of ensuring human control of artificial intelligence AI over the use of force Let us be clear humanitys fate cannot be left to an algorithm Humans must always retain authority over lifeanddeath decisions he told on Wednesday local time in an open debate of the Security Council on AI and international peace and securityThe Security Council and UN member states must ensure that military use of AI remains in full compliance with international law and the UN Charter Human control and judgment must be preserved in every use of force he saidAI is no longer a distant horizon It is here transforming daily life the information space and the global economy at breathtaking speed The question is not whether AI will influence international peace and security but how the world will shape that influence said GuterresWithout guardrails AI can be weaponised AIenabled cyberattacks can disrupt or destroy critical infrastructure in minutes The ability to fabricate and manipulate audio and video threatens information integrity fuels polarisation and can trigger diplomatic crises And the massive energy and water demands of largescale models coupled with competition over critical minerals are creating new drivers of tension he warnedGuterres said coherent global regulatory frameworks for AI must be in place Xinhua news agency reportedGovernments platforms media and civil society must cooperate to detect and deter AIgenerated deception from disinformation campaigns to deepfakes targeting peace processes humanitarian access and elections he saidWe need transparency in the entire AI life cycle rapid and verified attribution of information sources and their dissemination and systemic safeguards to prevent AI systems from spreading disinformation and igniting violence he saidThere is also a need to close the AI capacity gap said Guterres Technology can accelerate sustainable development foster stability and peace We must create space for all nations to shape our AI futureFrom nuclear arms control to aviation safety the international community has risen to the challenge of technologies that could destabilise societies by agreeing to rules by building institutions and by insisting on human dignity he said The window is closing to shape AI for peace for justice for humanity We must act without delay IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-stresses-need-to-ensure-human-control-of-ai-over-use-of-force-640347.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-cancer-heart-disease-pneumonia-among-major-causes-of-death-in-2024-640349.html Seoul Sep 25 Cancer heart disease and pneumonia were among the key causes of death for South Koreans in 2024 data showed on Thursday with suicide remaining the top factor among those in their 40s and younger Last year the total number of deaths reported in the country came to 358569 up 17 per cent from a year earlier according to Statistics KoreaThe agency said 7026 deaths were reported per 100000 South Koreans last year also up 19 per cent from a year earlierThe report showed that cancer accounted for 248 per cent of total deaths in 2024 followed by heart disease at 94 per cent and pneumonia at 84 per cent The three factors were responsible for more than 42 per cent of total deathsSuicide meanwhile stood as the fifthbiggest cause of death for South Koreans at 41 per centA total of 14872 people took their own lives last year up 63 per cent from a year earlierIt remained the main cause of death for people aged between 10 and 49 in South Korea in 2024 and the secondbiggest cause of death for those in their 50s Yonhap news agency reportedSouth Korea currently holds the highest suicide rate among the member countries of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development OECD which stood at 262 for every 100000 people in 2024 far higher than the OECD average of 108According to the World Health Organisation Cancer is a large group of diseases that can start in almost any organ or tissue of the body when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably go beyond their usual boundaries to invade adjoining parts of the body andor spread to other organs The latter process is called metastasising and is a major cause of death from cancer A neoplasm and malignant tumour are other common names for cancerPneumonia is a form of acute respiratory infection that is most commonly caused by viruses or bacteria It can cause mild to lifethreatening illness in people of all ages however it is the single largest infectious cause of death in children worldwide IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-cancer-heart-disease-pneumonia-among-major-causes-of-death-in-2024-640349.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/highway-road-mishap-kills-1-injures-3-in-afghanistans-laghman-640351.html Kabul Sep 25 One traveller was killed and three others injured when their car overturned in eastern Afghanistans Laghman province on Thursday morning the provincial police office said in a statement Blaming reckless driving for the deadly mishap the statement noted that the accident occurred in the Kakakh region along the highway linking the capital Kabul to eastern Nangarhar province resulting in the immediate death of one passenger and injuries to three others Xinhua news agency reportedEarlier on September 17 seven travellers lost their lives and two others were injured in a collision between a car and a passenger bus in eastern Wardak provinceThe main highway traversing Laghman province frequently witnesses fatal accidents due to driver negligence with highway traffic officials urging motorists to adhere to traffic rules and regulations to prevent such tragediesThe deadly accident took place on a road linking the countrys capital city Kabul to southern Kandahar province the statement saidThe road which crosses Wardak province often sees deadly road accidents due to the carelessness of the drivers it addedOn the same day at least three people were killed and two others injured when their vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a deep ravine in northern Afghanistans Badakhshan province a provincial police spokesman Ehsanullah Kamgar saidThe accident occurred in the Argo district after the vehicle lost control on a steep path resulting in the immediate deaths of three commuters including the driver and injuries to two children said Ehsanullah KamgarDeadly road accidents remain a persistent issue in wartorn Afghanistan often attributed to deteriorating road conditions reckless driving and inadequate safety measures amid challenging terrain and limited infrastructure IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/highway-road-mishap-kills-1-injures-3-in-afghanistans-laghman-640351.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/north-korea-presumed-to-possess-up-to-2-000-kg-of-highly-enriched-uranium-south-korea-640354.html Seoul Sep 25 North Korea is presumed to possess up to 2000 kilograms of highly enriched uranium as the country has sought to dramatically expand its nuclear weapons capabilities in recent years South Koreas Unification Minister Chung Dongyoung said on Thursday The minister disclosed the assessment during a press conference citing publicly released estimates by experts highlighting the urgency of stopping North Koreas nuclear programs Yonhap news agency reportedIt is urgent to stop it Even at this very hour uranium centrifuges at four locations in North Korea are running probably accumulating nuclear materials Chung saidEstimates by experts suggest North Korea possesses up to 2000 kg of highly enriched uranium at 90 per cent and higher he said adding that uranium between 10 to 12 kg is enough to produce one bombChung assessed that it is now impossible to persuade North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program through international sanctions saying that the resumption of North KoreaUS talks could instead serve as a breakthrough in stalled denuclearisation effortsIt will be desirable for North KoreaUS talks to take place as soon as possible the minister notedTheir resumption once realised could also help reopen stalled interKorean ties and the government will do its utmost to foster an environment for talks between Pyongyang and Washington he saidHis remarks came days after North Korean leader Kim Jongun in a recent speech to a key parliamentary meeting reiterated the regimes interest in resuming talks with Washington on condition that the longstanding call for denuclearisation be droppedLast month US President Donald Trump expressed hope to meet Kim this year sparking speculation that the two leaders could hold a meeting during Trumps planned attendance at the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation APEC summit scheduled for October 31November 1 in Gyeongju South KoreaKim however ruled out talks with Seoul and rejected the possibility of unifying the two KoreasDespite Pyongyangs resistance the Lee Jae Myung administration remains committed to pursuing peace with North Korea through dialogue and exchangesIn his address to the UN General Assembly earlier this week Lee stressed that the era of hostility and confrontation on the Korean Peninsula should end declaring that Seoul has no intention of engaging in hostile actsIn a recent interview with the BBC Lee also said Seoul would accept a possible deal between US President Donald Trump and Kim to freeze the Norths nuclear programs as a realistic alternative on the path toward the ultimate denuclearisationMeanwhile Chung disclosed that his ministry is in discussion with the defence ministry about suspending livefire drills and military field training near the interKorean borderIt is the unification ministrys position that it is fair to suspend shooting drills and field trainings in regions near the Demilitarised Zone even before the restoration of the Sept 19 agreement he said referring to the nowsuspended interKorean pact aimed at reducing border hostilityChung cast a negative outlook on bringing two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces in the war with Russia to South Korea saying he had been told that Kyiv is opposed to the ideaCurrently South and North Korea are internationally recognised as two separate nations but this does not imply a permanent division of the two Koreas the minister added reaffirming the official policy of ultimately seeking unification with the North IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/north-korea-presumed-to-possess-up-to-2-000-kg-of-highly-enriched-uranium-south-korea-640354.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/brazil-us-ties-see-feeble-thaw-despite-lulas-upbeat-tone-640361.html New York Sep 25 Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has voiced optimism after a brief meeting with US President Donald Trump even as ties between the two countries remain tense At a press conference on Wednesday local time Lula said that he believed Trump was illinformed about Brazil and that a meeting between the two heads of state would clear up any misunderstanding Xinhua News Agency reportedLets bring everything to the table everything that we think we should talk about he said adding that what is not discussable is Brazils sovereignty and democracy obviously referring to the sentencing of his immediate predecessor Jair BolsonaroTrump in his speech to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday said that he had a brief exchange with Lula and they agreed to meet next week Trump said there was chemistry between him and LulaAmid growing tensions with the United States over new tariffs and digital regulations Lula has recently rejected US pressure over the conviction of Bolsonaro saying Brazil is not a banana republic that bows to foreign interferenceEarlier on September 10 Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Brazil is a sovereign country and Brazilians are masters of our own destiny in a message addressed to his US counterpart TrumpThe statement came a day after White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said the United States will not hesitate to use economic and military might to defend freedom of expression when she was asked about the ongoing trial of former Brazilian President Jair BolsonaroIn response Lula said If Trump comes we will have to show him this panel so he can see it and compare it with the American panel So he knows that we believe in ourselves We are a sovereign country and we are masters of our own destiny This is a demonstration of Brazilian competence in all areasOn July 30 the Trump administration announced plans to impose tariffs of up to 50 per cent on Brazilian exports and sanction Alexandre de Moraes a Brazilian Supreme Court justice Moraes oversaw the case against former President Jair Bolsonaro who is accused of attempting to seize power following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/brazil-us-ties-see-feeble-thaw-despite-lulas-upbeat-tone-640361.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 20:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-protests-held-in-karachi-over-killing-of-three-transgender-persons-640397.html Karachi Sep 25 Members of the transgender community and civil society are holding protest rallies in Pakistans Karachi against the brutal murders of three transgender persons Demanding justice they have made it clear that the protests will continue until the killers are arrested local media reported on Thursday One such protest was held outside the Karachi Press Club and was organised under the banner of Justice for the Khwaja Sira Community Transgender leaders including Chandni Shah Sarah Gul Advocate Nisha Rao Kami Choudhry and Bandia Rana and supporters from the Awami Workers Party participated in the protest Protesters requested the federal and provincial governments to ensure the safety of the people and hold the perpetrators behind the murder to account Pakistans The Express Tribune reportedGIA chairperson Bandia Rana said that the transgender community is holding protest to highlight their grievances She stated that targetted murders of trans people are continuing and mentioned that similar protests were being held in Hyderabad and Sukkur over the recent killings Rana said many transgender persons have been facing unemployment and exclusion from government jobs compelling some into begging for survival She said that transgender community does not have basic services and they face further harm due to false propaganda circulated by certain elementsLast month Pakistans transgender community held a major protest against the rising number of violent attacks in the country especially in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Trans Action Alliance President Farzana Riaz and Manzil Foundation Executive Director Madam Arzoo Khan led the protest demonstration outside the Mardan Press Club and mentioned that the police has not been able to protect the communitySpeaking to reporters after the protest Farzana said that 158 transgender people have been killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since 2015 and added that not a single case has been awarded justice so far Firing on transgender community Pakistans leading daily Dawn quoted Farzana as saying was becoming a daily occurrence as the government has failed to provide protection to themThe community leaders accused the police of considering interaction with transgender people as beneath their dignity They urged human rights groups to become their voice so that their voice against injustice could become stronger IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-protests-held-in-karachi-over-killing-of-three-transgender-persons-640397.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/jindal-global-university-awarded-5-stars-in-global-qs-ratings-2025-at-house-of-lords-london-640403.html London Sep 25 At the exclusive IndiaUK Roundtable on The Innovation Corridor UKIndia Higher Education held at the House of Lords Palace of Westminster on September 24 OP Jindal Global University JGU was conferred the prestigious Global QS 5 Stars Rating Certificate The certificate was presented to Professor Dr C Raj Kumar Vice Chancellor JGU by Jessica Turner CEO of QS in the distinguished presence of The Lord Patel of Bradford OBE and Dr Ashwin Fernandes Regional Director QS Dr Pankaj Mittal Secretary General Association of Indian Universities and Professor Padmanabha Ramanujam Dean Academic Governance JGU among other distinguished dignitaries including more than 25 Vice Chancellors and Presidents of leading UK and Indian universitiesThe QS Stars system evaluates universities on over 50 indicators and JGUs outstanding performance was recognised for teaching online learning employability arts amp culture sustainability governance research and law and legal studiesThis recognition reaffirms JGUs global standing as a comprehensive worldclass institution of higher education committed to innovation quality and international collaborationReceiving this accolade at such a historic venue symbolises not just JGUs achievements but also its pivotal role in strengthening IndiaUK academic ties and shaping the future of higher education worldwideOP Jindal Global University JGU has been awarded 5Star Excellent Ratings overall in the Global QS Stars Ratings 2025 a prestigious global system that evaluates universities across multiple dimensions of teaching research employability governance sustainability and moreJGU has been recognised with an overall 5Star Excellent Rating affirming its position as one of the worlds leading universitiesQS Stars uses a comprehensive framework to rate and showcase university performance across a range of criteria offering a multidimensional perspective of excellence in higher educationIn addition to this overall distinction the QS evaluation recognised JGU with5 Stars Teaching Online Learning Employability Environmental Impact Arts amp Culture Good Governance Global Engagement4 Stars Law amp Legal Studies ResearchWelcoming this global honour Naveen Jindal Chancellor amp Benefactor of JGU said This proud recognition reflects our vision of building a worldclass institution in India It reaffirms JGUs commitment to excellence innovation and global engagement values that are deeply aligned with the aspirations of our nationProfessor Dr C Raj Kumar Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU added This achievement underscores the breadth of our strengths and the holistic nature of our academic ecosystem This recognition is not the product of one effort but the lived ethos of our community Over 16 years we have grown from an aspiration into an Institution of Eminence defined by academic excellence vibrant culture sustainability innovation and global engagement It is a testament to the visionary leadership and generosity of our Chancellor and Benefactor Naveen Jindal whose commitment and philanthropy laid the foundation for JGUs journey It belongs equally to our faculty members who inspire and mentor our administrative staff who ensure operational excellence our students who embrace challenges with resilience and creativity and our alumni who carry forward JGUs values into the worldCommenting on this distinction achieved by JGU Dr Ashwin Fernandes Executive Director QS observed JGUs 5Star Excellent Rating is a clear recognition of its holistic strengths across teaching research employability sustainability governance and global engagement Very few institutions in the world achieve this distinction and JGUs accomplishment reflects both its academic vision and its commitment to global benchmarks It is also a signal of Indias growing presence on the global higher education map with universities like JGU leading the wayProfessor Padmanabha Ramanujam Dean of Academic Governance JGU remarked The QS Stars recognition is a validation of our commitment to institutional integrity accountability and global benchmarks It reflects JGUs resolve to consistently strengthen its governance systems and uphold the highest standards in higher educationKey Highlights of the QS Stars EvaluationTeaching 5 Stars From a small founding faculty to over 1100 professors scholars and practitioners JGUs growth in human capital reflects its unwavering commitment to academic quality This year alone 129 new worldclass faculty members joined JGU representing what experts call a historic leap in Indian higher education High student satisfaction personalised mentoring and impressive retention rates reflect the universitys culture of nurturing talent and fostering intellectual growthOnline Learning 5 Stars Through JGU Online learners access worldclass degree programmes and certifications with the same academic rigour as oncampus offerings Features such as live and recorded lectures COILbased global collaborations inclusive design career support and 247 student services have set new benchmarks in digital learning excellenceEmployability 5 Stars JGU graduates are recognised worldwide for their impact leadership and practical skills This rating validates JGUs focus on preparing students not just for their first job but for sustained success and leadership across their careersEnvironmental Impact 5 Stars Sustainability is embedded in JGUs operations through responsible funding procurement and climateconscious practices The Office of Sustainability tracks and reduces emissions minimises waste and advances community engagement while the Jindal School of Environment amp Sustainability JSES drives research and innovation aligned with the UN Sustainable Development GoalsArts amp Culture 5 Stars JGU fosters a thriving ecosystem where creativity and learning coexist Initiatives like Indias first Constitution Museum and the Rights and Freedoms Academy deepen cultural awareness civic learning and global citizenshipGood Governance 5 Stars The rating acknowledges JGUs transparent accountable and inclusive governance practices that ensure excellence across both academic and administrative spheresGlobal Engagement 5 Stars With 575 collaborations across 80 countries JGU has created one of the worlds most globalised academic ecosystems Dual degrees exchanges and research partnerships make international education accessible structured and impactfulLaw and Legal Studies 4 Stars Jindal Global Law School JGLS has been ranked Indias No 1 law school for six consecutive years in the QS World University Subject Rankings With global collaborations innovative curricula and experiential learning JGLS continues to strengthen Indias legal education landscapeResearch 4 Stars JGU has established dynamic research centres and think tanks addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches By balancing teaching and research faculty remain at the forefront of knowledge creation while enriching student learning IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/jindal-global-university-awarded-5-stars-in-global-qs-ratings-2025-at-house-of-lords-london-640403.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/traders-in-pak-occupied-gilgit-baltistan-continue-to-face-wrath-of-state-machinery-640416.html Islamabad Sep 25 Rejecting the governments decision of conditional tax exemptions on imports coming through the Sost Dry Port the traders in Pakistanoccupied GilgitBaltistan PoGB have decided to continue holding their sitin local media reported on Thursday Local traders in PoGB have been holding the sitin and blocking the port since July The protest began against the governments taxation policies and suspension of customs clearance at the port Pakistans leading daily Dawn reported On Wednesday the government expressed willingness for tax exemptions on imports coming through the port in case the goods were being used for local consumption and would meet strict eligibility conditions The total value of tax exemptions for an year was capped at Pakistani Rupees PKR 4 billionThe government announced the decision following the talks between federal government local government and business leaders in Islamabad However the trade delegations leader Javed Hussain who has been leading the protest said that they were not satisfied with governments decision After the agreement and its announcement in Islamabad it was suggested to us to end the protest But we dont agree with this suggestion and have decided to continue the sitin and keep the trade suspended he saidHussain announced that traders would now hold a meeting with its representative body that engaged in talks with the government He further said that traders would decision on whether they would continue the protest if the members were able to give satisfactory justification about the governments decisionGilgitBaltistan a land of majestic mountains and proud people has been suffering the brutality of Pakistani establishment for decades Traders of GilgitBaltistan have blocked the local routes in desperation demanding their voices be heard But they continue to face the wrath of the state machineryPakistans rule in GilgitBaltistan rests not on legitimacy but on force The tragedy is not confined to one valley or one protest It is written into the very fabric of Islamabads approach to GilgitBaltistan From the moment Pakistan illegally occupied the region in 1947 it has ensured that the local residents remain voiceless and excluded from the constitutional framework of the countryThe regions population remains burdened with high taxes coercive laws and authoritarian institutions The original residents of GilgitBaltistan do not have any say in terms of how they should be governed Their resources are being siphoned off their lands exploited and their young men subjected to military harassment IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/traders-in-pak-occupied-gilgit-baltistan-continue-to-face-wrath-of-state-machinery-640416.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/denmark-alerts-nato-and-eu-after-drone-incursions-shuts-one-airport-640421.html Copenhagen Sep 25 Denmark has contacted the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation NATO and the European Union EU after shutting Aalborg airport and placing three others airports on alert on Thursday following the unauthorised drones carrying out what the authorities termed as coordinated attacks While addressing a press conference on Thursday Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that the country was deliberating on whether to trigger the alliances Article 4 in what it termed a hybrid attack that involved a systematic approach in flying the drones near critical infrastructure Euro News reportedAuthorities stated that they have given authorisation to shoot down the drones in case it happens in future We are going to find the people who are behind this We have various military capabilities that can help defend Denmark F35 and our frigates said PoulsenThe Deputy PM said that Denmark does not have tools required to address the threat that is here to stay and does not possess groundbased air defence system which the government decided to buy this month He mentioned that it would still not be fully effective in combating the type of drone detected above Denmark on ThursdayPoulsen said There is no single capacity that will make this go away He noted that Denmark needs to have various tools to fight what comes its way whether its drones or missiles Aalborg Esbjerg Sonderborg and Skrydstrup airports were impacted overnight on ThursdayDenmark police said the Aalborg airport was shut As per the reports the drones disrupting operations of the airport left the area after about three hours In a statement the North Jutland Police said that they were closely monitoring the situation at Aalborg however it did not reveal the details about the number of drones involved in the incidentEarlier also drone incursion were reported in Denmark that officials suspect may involve Russian interference On Monday the Copenhagen airport was affected by a similar incident Authorities said the drones at Aalborg followed a similar pattern to the ones that paused operations at Copenhagen Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen had described the drone attack as the most serious yet on Denmarks infrastructureNorwegian authorities also closed the airspace at Oslo airport for three hours on Monday due to possible danger from unauthorised drone activity Euro News reported On Wednesday Norways Foreign Minister said that authorities of Denmark and Norway are working together on the incidents that occurred in Copenhagen and Oslo however their probe has not yet established a connection IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/denmark-alerts-nato-and-eu-after-drone-incursions-shuts-one-airport-640421.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/outgoing-japanese-pm-expected-to-visit-south-korea-next-week-640422.html Seoul Sep 25 South Korea and Japan are coordinating a visit by outgoing Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to a southern South Korean city next week for talks with President Lee Jae Myung a Seoul official said Thursday We are discussing with the Japanese side plans for Prime Minister Ishibas visit at the end of September the official said adding that more details will be made public once finalised Yonhap News Agency reportedIshiba is expected to make a twoday trip to the southern port city of Busan starting TuesdayIf confirmed it will be a reciprocal visit after Lees stop in Japan last month before heading to the United States for summit talks with US President Donald TrumpSince taking office in June Lee has pledged to maintain the thaw in ties and work closely with Tokyo to advance not only bilateral relations but also trilateral cooperation with Washington while firmly addressing longstanding historical issues stemming from Japans 191035 colonial rule of KoreaLee broke the precedents by choosing to visit Japan before the US in his first overseas trip as president in an apparent move to demonstrate his commitment to aligning with the two countriesThe envisioned visit is expected to be the last trip for Ishiba as prime minister Ishiba announced his resignation earlier this month following the ruling partys crushing election defeats both in the lower house last October and the upper house in July this yearThe ruling Liberal Democratic Party is set to elect a new leader October 4Earlier on September 23 the top diplomats of South Korea the United States and Japan reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the denuclearisation of North Korea and highlighted the need to maintain sanctions against Pyongyang a joint statement statedThe statement came after South Koreas Foreign Minister Cho Hyun US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly for talks on their partnership and other shared issues including North Koreas nuclear threatsNorth Korean leader Kim Jongun has suggested he is open to engaging in dialogue with President Donald Trumps administration if Washington drops its denuclearization demand saying he has no intention of relinquishing his nuclear stockpilesThe Secretary and Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the denuclearization of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea DPRK in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council UNSC resolutions while continuing to make efforts to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy the statement read referring to North Korea by its official nameThey emphasised the need to address together the DPRKs nuclear and missile programs and to maintain and strengthen the sanctions regime against the DPRK by responding firmly and in cooperation with other countries to violations and evasions of the relevant UNSC resolutions IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/outgoing-japanese-pm-expected-to-visit-south-korea-next-week-640422.html Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indonesias-president-includes-sanskrit-greetings-in-his-speech--640233.html United Nations Sep 23 Indonesias President Prabowo Subianto started and ended his speech by including Sanskrit greetings while calling for harmony of all religions Starting his speech at the General Assembly on Tuesday he included in greeting the world leaders Om Swastiastu which is used in his countrys Hindumajority island of Bali and is translated as May you be blessed and protectedAnd ended his speech by including Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om along with invocations from other religionsJews Muslims Christians Hindus Buddhists all religions we must live as one human family he saidIndonesia is committed to being part of making this vision a reality Is this a dream Maybe but this is the beautiful dream that we must work together towards he addedPrabowa Subianto who followed US President Donald Trump on the podium countered his attacks on the UN accusing it of being ineffectiveThe Indonesian leader said In our struggle for independence and our fight to overcome disease hunger and poverty the UN stood with Indonesia and gave us vital assistanceDecisions made here based on human solidarity by the Security Council and this Assembly gave Indonesia international legitimacy opened doors and supported our early development he said naming various UN developmental agenciesAnd because of that Indonesia stands today on the cusp of shared prosperity and greater equality he addedWithout naming the US or Trump he directed criticism of the threats he issued to various nations and entitiesNo one country can bully the whole community of the human family he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indonesias-president-includes-sanskrit-greetings-in-his-speech--640233.html Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/mea-jaishankar-us-envoy-designate-gor-look-forward-to-promoting-ties-640060.html New York Sept 23 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Ambassadordesignate to India Sergio Gor who held a meeting here look forward to promoting their countries relationship the State Department said Following their meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Monday the State Department stated on X They look forward to further promoting the success of the USIndia relationshipTheir meeting followed a bilateral between Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at which they agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areasGor who is awaiting Senate confirmation for the ambassadorship will simultaneously be President Donald Trumps Special Envoy for South and Central AsiaA close associate of Trump who played an important role in his election campaign he was the director of the presidential personnel office which helps select political appointees for the administration and vets themAt the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing earlier this month on his nomination for the ambassadorship Gor said The USIndia partnership will define the 21st CenturyIndia is a strategic partner whose trajectory will shape the region and beyond he added noting Our President has a deep friendship with Prime Minister Modi and that is something uniqueWhen Gor moves into the embassy in Chanakyapuri he will face the task of mending relations tried by the trade conflict which led to Trump imposing a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff and topping it off with a 25 per cent punitive tariff for buying Russian oilGor said at the hearing Improving USIndia trade ties will not only bolster US competitiveness but also reduce Chinas economic leverage over other nations IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/mea-jaishankar-us-envoy-designate-gor-look-forward-to-promoting-ties-640060.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/european-union-assures-india-it-is-reliable-partner-640061.html New York Sept 23 European Unions top diplomat Kaja Kallas has assured India that it is a reliable partner working together on upholding multilateralism during a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Along with Brazils Minister Mauro Vieira Juan and Mexicos Foreign Secretary Ramon de la Fuente he attended a meeting with EU foreign ministers on MondayAfter the meeting Kallas whose formal title is High Representative for Foreign Affairs posted on X The message to our partners was simple the EU is a reliable actor We support multilateralism free trade and a world grounded in the UN CharterJaishankar in his X post on the meeting said Pleased to meet EU Foreign Ministers at their informal meeting todayIt was an opportunity to have open exchange of views on multilateralism IndiaEU partnership Ukraine conflict Gaza energy and trade he wroteAt a news conference Kallas said The EUs relations with Brazil India and Mexico are important economically but also for Europe protecting the rulesbased international orderMultilateral order is really something that we all need to defend and the UN Charter is at its core she saidShe mentioned the EUs new blueprint to deepen ties with India that was unveiled last weekLaying the foundation for longterm ties between India and the EU the strategy has five pillars trade investment technology and sustainability defence and security connectivity and global issues and coordination on labour mobilityEarlier on Wednesday the EU unveiled a new strategic agenda to significantly ramp up its engagement with India in a range of key areas such as defence trade and energy and to jointly tackle major global challengesThe EU said its closer partnership with India is increasingly becoming vital in the wake of the shifting geopolitical realities and that it is prudent for the two sides to strengthen economic growth and security IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/european-union-assures-india-it-is-reliable-partner-640061.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/commerce-minister-goyal-meets-us-trade-representative-greer-in-new-york-640062.html Washington Sep 23 Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in New York to negotiate the first tranche of a trade agreement between the two sides sources say Sources also told IANS that the meeting focused on addressing key sticking points and both sides remain hopeful of reaching an interim understanding soonBoth India and the US are yet to issue official statements about the latest meetingThe talks come days after US Assistant Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch held trade talks with Indias chief trade negotiator Rajesh Agrawal in DelhiThe Indian readout of the meeting said that positive discussions were held on various aspects of the trade deal and it was decided to intensify efforts in this regardHowever the talks have been overshadowed by the Trump administrations decision to significantly curtail the H1B visa programUS President Donald Trump on Friday signed a proclamation imposing a 100000 fee for each new applicationThe proclamation caused immense confusion over the weekend as it seemed to suggest that it would impact the current H1B visa holders who may face hurdles in returning to the United StatesThe White House issued a clarification to IANS on Saturday saying that this is a onetime fee that applies only to new visas and not renewals or current visa holdersThis is a onetime fee that applies only to the petition It ONLY applies to new visas not renewals or current visa holders It will first apply in the next upcoming lottery cycle a White House official told IANSThe Ministry of External Affairs had also issued a statement saying the measure is likely to have humanitarian consequencesTrade talks between the two countries have resumed after US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to wish him on his 75th birthday on September 16Prime Minister Modi in a post on X termed Trump as his friend and thanked him for the wishesThank you my friend President Trump for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday Like you I am also fully committed to taking the IndiaUS Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict PM Modi wrotePresident Trump also posted on Truth Social calling the phone call wonderful and thanked him for his support on attempting to end the conflict in UkraineJust had a wonderful phone call with my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi I wished him a very Happy Birthday He is doing a tremendous job Narendra Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine President DJT he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/commerce-minister-goyal-meets-us-trade-representative-greer-in-new-york-640062.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-calls-for-intensified-efforts-to-achieve-sdgs-640063.html United Nations Sep 23 UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres called for intensified efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs at the SDG Moment event held at UN headquarters At the event hosted during the HighLevel Week of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly UNGA Guterres outlined the path to reach the SDGs reform the global financial architecture climate action must take center stage and prepare for technological transformationIn all we do we must make peace a priority he said stressing that in 2024 global military spending was 13 times official development assistance Xinhua news agency reportedWith five years to go until 2030 only 35 per cent of the SDGs are on track 47 per cent are seeing insufficient progress and 18 per cent have gone into reverse UNGA President Annalena Baerbock said at the eventThe financial picture is equally stark At a moment of rising need net official development assistance fell by 71 per cent last year she saidWe are not moving as fast as we should on the foundational promise of the Sustainable Development Goals Baerbock saidShe added that development will only be fair and sustainable if it makes space for voices too often ignored and if we combine our efforts and show solidarity with each otherWith 17 SDGs at its core the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in September 2015 which is committed to eradicating poverty promoting equality addressing climate change and more by 2030 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-calls-for-intensified-efforts-to-achieve-sdgs-640063.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 07:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-security-council-meets-urgently-on-alleged-russian-intrusion-of-estonian-airspace-640064.html United Nations Sep 23 The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the alleged intrusion of Estonian airspace by Russian fighter jets UN Assistant SecretaryGeneral for Europe Central Asia and the Americas Miroslav Jenca in his briefing said the world body is not in a position to confirm any of the claims regarding the incident and does not have any further details of the events He therefore based his briefing solely on information available from public sourcesIn a letter dated Saturday and addressed to the president of the Security Council Estonia claimed that three Russian MiG31 fighters entered up to 10 km inside Estonias airspace and stayed for 12 minutes on Friday said JencaThe Russian Defense Ministry claimed Saturday that its fighter jets made a scheduled flight from Karelia on the border with Finland to an airfield in Kaliningrad in strict accordance with international airspace rules without deviating from the agreed flight path and without violating Estonian airspace said JencaWe again urge all concerned to act responsibly to use all available channels and to take immediate steps to deescalate tensions and prevent further risks to regional security he said The world simply cannot afford such danger to spiral out of control and for the devastating war in Ukraine to further escalate and expandEstonia other European countries that participated in Mondays meeting and the United States accused Russia of violating Estonias airspace and of escalating tension Xinhua news agency reportedRussias first deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Dmitry Polyanskiy denied that Russian jets had violated Estonian airspace and accused European states of RussophobiaThrough their European politicians efforts a medievallike hatred for our country coupled with the aspiration to portray Russia as the principal threat to panEurope security is before our very eyes becoming the overarching ideology of European states he saidOur neighbors have now conceived that Russia is at fault for an incursion into Estonias airspace As always there is no evidence except for the Russophobic hysteria coming from Tallinn said PolyanskiyUS Permanent Representative to the United Nations Mike Waltz in his maiden speech to the Security Council said his country and its allies will defend every inch of NATO territoryEstonia is a NATO memberNonEuropean members of the Security Council called for restraint and deescalationGeng Shuang Chinas deputy permanent representative to the United Nations said China urges the parties concerned to remain calm and exercise restraint clarify facts and dispel doubts through dialogue and communication avoid misunderstanding and misjudgment and prevent the situation from expanding or escalatingThe meeting was requested by Estonia The councils five European members Britain Denmark France Greece and Slovenia supported the request IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-security-council-meets-urgently-on-alleged-russian-intrusion-of-estonian-airspace-640064.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 07:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/after-meeting-eam-jaishankar-marco-rubio-declares-india-critical-to-us-640065.html New York Sep 23 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declared that India is of critical value to his country and welcomed its ongoing interaction in trade according to the State Department After he met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday reiterating that India is a relationship of critical importance to the United States Rubio expressed his appreciation for the Indian governments continued engagement on a number of issues including trade defense energy pharmaceuticals critical minerals and other items related to the bilateral relationship the Department said in a readout of their meetingThey agreed the United States and India will continue working together to promote a free and open IndoPacific region including through the Quad it saidThe reaffirmation of Indias importance for the US comes after US President Donald Trump reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to greet him on his 75th birthday after imposing a total of 50 per cent tariffs on India and weeks of harsh statements about IndiaSignificantly the meeting with Jaishankar was the first official meeting of the day for Rubio who is making a round of bilaterals with world leaders here for the highlevel General Assembly sessionJaishankar posted on X Our conversation covered a range of bilateral and international issues of current concern Agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areasHe added that they would stay in touchBefore going into the conference room with a table decked with flowers and flags they made a cordial appearance before the media waiting outside and shook hands but refused to answer questionsLater Jaishankar met with the US ambassadordesignate to India Sergio GorThe State Department said on X They look forward to further promoting the success of the USIndia relationshipGor will also be Trumps Special Envoy for South and Central AsiaThe appointment of Gor needs approval by the Senate like all ambassadorial positionsIn another sign of movement in the two countries attempts to reset their relations Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in New York to negotiate the first tranche of a trade agreement between the two sides sources told IANSBoth sides remain hopeful of reaching an interim understanding soon the sources addedDespite differences on trade and Russian oil purchases the two nations have strong common interests at the strategic level exemplified by the Quad the fournation group that also includes Australia and Japan and is focused on the IndoPacificRubio made a reference to the QuadAfter flinging invectives at India such as calling its economy dead Trump posted on Truth Social after his birthday call to PM Modi He is doing a tremendous job Narendra Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and UkrainePM Modi thanked him and said on X Like you I am also fully committed to taking the IndiaUS Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heightsThe two countries resumed their negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement with a meeting in New Delhi between Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch and Commerce Ministry Special Secretary Rajesh Agrawal paving the way for the GoyalGreer meeting IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/after-meeting-eam-jaishankar-marco-rubio-declares-india-critical-to-us-640065.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/doval-drouin-talks-spark-breakthrough-as-canada-moves-against-khalistan-terrorists-640076.html New Delhi Sep 23 Ties between India and Canada had strained due to the baseless allegations made by Justin Trudeau regarding the Khalistan issue After Trudeau stepped down and a new government was in place under Mark Carney relations have witnessed a reset but at a slower pace The Indian agencies saw some hope after the Canadian Intelligence reported that the Khalistan elements were using their soil to raise funds for terrorrelated activities India was sceptical about whether action could be taken against the Khalistan terrorists operating on Canadian soil However the arrest of Inderjeet Singh Gosal a key coordinator for the Khalistan referendum is a positive signIndia now feels that the Canadians are finally acknowledging the problem and are ready to work closely on the issueNational Security Advisor Ajit Doval has been leading a team that is closely coordinating with agencies in Canada India is providing Canada with dossiers and Intelligence about the Khalistan elements and this has resulted in coordination which ultimately led to the arrest of GosalOfficials said that this is not the first time that India has provided Canada with dossiers and information The only difference is that now Canada is ready to act unlike in the past when such dossiers were pushed under the tableThe NSA and his team have been pushing the point hard that these elements are not part of an advocacy group They are part of a terrorist organisation which is being funded by the ISI the Indian agencies have told CanadaThe breakthrough in the relations followed a meeting of NSA Doval and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin which was held earlier this month This meeting led to a reset in relations and the two agreed that it was about time that the problem was combatedBoth Doval and Drouin agreed to work closely and share Intelligence on this issueIn addition to this meeting both countries have also decided on a diplomatic front to work on the Khalistan issue It is important that Canada acknowledge that the Khalistanis had become a grave threatCanada has also realised that these persons are not just using their soil to launch attacks against India but the Khalistani elements have also become extremely aggressive in the countryAn incident during which the Khalistan elements told a group of Canadians to leave the country as it belonged to them was just one instance of how desperate and dangerous these groups have becomeAn Intelligence assessment says that the Khalistanis have utterly failed in India Multiple attempts to regroup in Punjab and seek a separate nation have failed owing to enhanced security measures and also the fact that the youth are showing no interest in the movementThis is causing frustration and in a bid to enhance their propaganda they become aggressive in Canada thereby hurting the countrys interestsOfficials explain that a complete reset would take time and there is a lot to do especially on the issue relating to the Khalistan movement The arrest of Gosal is the first step in this battle against the issueIndia has sent 26 extradition requests to Canada and Ottawa has resolved just five while the remaining are hanging India has in the past accused Canada of doing absolutely nothing on the issue The Ministry of External Affairs had said that the 26 extradition requests are for people charged in India with terror and related crimes India had also sought the provisional arrest of these persons IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/doval-drouin-talks-spark-breakthrough-as-canada-moves-against-khalistan-terrorists-640076.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-signs-executive-order-designating-antifa-as-domestic-terrorist-organisation-640079.html Washington Sep 23 US President Donald Trump signed an executive order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organisation a move some experts believe lacks legal authority President Donald J Trump is right the violence problem is on the Left Thats why he just designated Antifa a network of Radical Left terrorists that aim to overthrow the government through violence and agitation as a domestic terrorist organisation the White House said in a document on Monday local timeIt also lists examples of the movements long history of terrorising our communities including attacks on US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers police officers attendees of conservative political events and Trump supportersThe order directs the federal government to investigate disrupt and dismantle all illegal operations conducted by Antifa or any person claiming to act on behalf of Antifa It also calls for necessary investigatory and prosecutorial actions against those who fund such operationsAntifas terror is part of the trend of Radical Left violence that has permeated the nation in recent years incited by constant lies and vicious attacks against Republicans from unhinged Democrat politicians wellfunded leftist organisations and their allies in the media said the document adding that conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed by a Radical Left terroristThere is no legal authority to actually designate a domestic group as a terrorist organisation even assuming that antifa is an organisation and not just an ideology Mary McCord a former acting head of the Justice Departments national security division was quoted by The New York Times as sayingA report by The Washington Post also noted that the United States has no legal means of designating domestic terrorist groups adding that experts expressed concern that the move could be used to justify a crackdown on the political left more generally Xinhua news agency reportedDuring his first term in 2020 Trump also announced that he would designate the Antifa movement as a terrorist organisation largely a response to the nationwide protests and unrest that erupted after the killing of African American George Floyd by police But no concrete action was takenTrump signed the latest executive order amid a heated domestic debate over political violence following the death of Charlie Kirk In response to Democrats argument that both the left and right engage in political violence Trump recently claimed that most of the violence is on the left IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-signs-executive-order-designating-antifa-as-domestic-terrorist-organisation-640079.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-ex-president-yoons-bail-hearing-set-for-friday-640086.html Seoul Sep 23 A Seoul court will hold a hearing on former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeols request for bail later this week legal sources said on Tuesday The hearing will be held at the Seoul Central District Court at 1030 am Friday after Yoon filed for bail last week citing his right to defend himself and issues with his healthYoon has been in custody since July when special counsel Cho Eunsuks team placed him under arrest a second time on charges related to his failed imposition of martial law in DecemberThe former president has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection through his martial law attempt and a second trial on separate charges of violating the rights of Cabinet members and creating a revised proclamation after the martial law declaration is set to begin FridayThe bail hearing is expected to take place immediately after the first hearing of the second trial Yonhap news agency reportedEarlier on September 21 Yoon Suk Yeol had requested to be released on bail citing the need to prepare his defence and health concerns according to legal sourcesOn September 20 a special counsel team had notified Yoon to appear for questioning next week over allegations linked to his failed martial law bidSpecial counsel Cho Eunsuks team said it had issued the summons to Yoon to appear for questioning at the Seoul High Prosecutors Office on WednesdayIt would be the first time investigators attempt to question him over the allegation of inciting foreign aggressionThe team suspects Yoon of giving direct orders to the Drone Operations Command to dispatch drones to Pyongyang in an attempt to provoke North Korean military responses and allegedly create a pretext for the imposition of martial lawFormer drone command chief Major General Kim Yongdae Joint Chiefs of Staff JCS former Chairman Adm Kim Myungsoo and JCS operations chief Lt Gen Lee Seungoh had already been questioned over the allegationsThe commanders had denied any link between the drone dispatch and Yoons martial law arguing the operations were part of response measures to the Norths balloon campaigns against the South IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-ex-president-yoons-bail-hearing-set-for-friday-640086.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/dengue-fever-cases-surge-in-vietnams-capital-hanoi-640091.html Hanoi Sep 23 Vietnams capital Hanoi has reported a sharp rise in dengue fever cases with 258 new infections recorded from September 12 to 19 up from 190 cases in the previous week local media reported According to the Hanoi Centre for Disease Control the city has identified 19 new outbreak clusters bringing the total number of active hotspots to 33Since the beginning of 2025 Hanoi has recorded 1884 cases of dengue fever down 42 per cent compared to the same period in 2024 reports Xinhua quoting Vietnam News AgencyHealth authorities warned that insect indices at outbreak sites remain at highrisk thresholds and forecast that the infections are likely to keep rising in line with the annual epidemic cycleLocal health stations have also been instructed to strengthen early detection and ensure timely response to emerging cases especially in highrisk communities the report notedAccording to the World Health Organization Dengue is a viral infection that is spread from mosquitoes to people It is more common in tropical and subtropical than in temperate climatesMost people who get dengue do not have symptoms For those who do the most common symptoms are high fever headache body aches nausea and rash Most get better in 12 weeks Some develop severe dengue and need care in a hospitalIn severe cases dengue can be fatalYou can lower your risk of dengue by avoiding mosquito bites especially during the dayDengue is treated through pain management as there is no specific treatment currentlyThe incidence of dengue has grown dramatically worldwide in recent decades with the number of cases reported to the WHO increasing from 505430 cases in 2000 to 146 million in 2024 The vast majority of cases are asymptomatic or mild and selfmanaged and hence the actual numbers of dengue cases are underreported The disease is now endemic in more than 100 countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/dengue-fever-cases-surge-in-vietnams-capital-hanoi-640091.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-south-korean-army-chiefs-discuss-expanding-exchanges-between-troops-military-drills-640112.html Seoul Sep 23 South Koreas Army Chief of Staff General Kim Gyuha has met with his US counterpart General Randy A George to discuss ways to increase exchanges of highlevel army officers and expand joint military drills officials said on Tuesday Kim held talks with US Army Chief of Staff General George on Monday at Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek some 60 kilometres south of Seoul according to the armed services Yonhap News Agency reportedThe two sides concurred on the fact that the SeoulWashington alliance has evolved as the linchpin of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and beyondWe will maintain and expand close cooperation with the US Army by revitalising joint training and sharing visions for military innovation to overcome impending challenges and to prepare for the future Kim saidMeanwhile the top diplomats of South Korea the United States and Japan have reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the denuclearisation of North Korea a joint statement showed on Tuesday after the Norths leader urged Washington to drop that goal as a condition for resuming talks with PyongyangThe statement was released after Foreign Minister Cho Hyun US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Monday for talks on their partnership and other shared issues including North Koreas nuclear threatsThe statement came a day after North Korean leader Kim Jongun suggested he is open to engaging in dialogue with US President Donald Trumps administration if Washington drops its denuclearisation demand saying he has no intention of relinquishing his nuclear stockpilesThe Secretary and Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the denuclearisation of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea DPRK in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council UNSC resolutions while continuing to make efforts to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy the statement read referring to North Korea by its official nameThey emphasised the need to address together the DPRKs nuclear and missile programs and to maintain and strengthen the sanctions regime against the DPRK by responding firmly and in cooperation with other countries to violations and evasions of the relevant UNSC resolutionsIn the speech during the parliamentary meeting Kim warned it would be a mistake to think North Korea could be pressured or subdued through sanctions or shows of forceIn Mondays talks in New York Cho called for active cooperation from Washington and Tokyo to resume dialogue with Pyongyang and make tangible progress toward peace on the Korean Peninsula and resolution of the nuclear issues the foreign ministry said in a separate press releaseIn the joint statement the US reaffirmed its extended deterrence commitments to its two Asian allies which are critically important to the security and stability of the Korean Peninsula and broader IndoPacific regionThey reaffirmed their resolve to bolster defence and deterrence by advancing robust security cooperation including through the regular conduct of the trilateral multidomain exercise Freedom Edge and to strengthen their respective defence capabilities the statement saidThe statement included phrasing suggesting a united front against Chinas assertiveness as they voiced opposition to unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea under constant disputes between Beijing and neighbouring countries like the PhilippinesAlso drawing attention in the statement was the Taiwan Strait where the three voiced concern over increasingly frequent destabilising actions around TaiwanThey encouraged the peaceful resolution of crossStrait issues and opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quoThey also reiterated serious concerns over North Koreas deepening military cooperation with Russia including Moscows support for Pyongyangs military capabilities particularly its longrange missilesThey shared concerns over the Norths malicious cyber activities using its information technology workers and the need to deepen threeway collaboration on blocking such activities IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-south-korean-army-chiefs-discuss-expanding-exchanges-between-troops-military-drills-640112.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/chinas-guangdong-raises-emergency-response-to-highest-for-typhoon-ragasa-640113.html Beijing Sep 23 South Chinas Guangdong Province raised its wind emergency response to the highest level at 10 am on Tuesday as Typhoon Ragasa is forecast to make landfall along the central or western coastal areas of the province as a strong or super strong typhoon within 24 hours Typhoon Ragasa entered the South China Sea late Monday and is forecast to move northwest at a speed of about 20 km per hour It is expected to land in the coastal areas from Zhuhai City to Xuwen County on Wednesday packing winds of 40 to 55 meters per second according to the provincial meteorological observatoryThe typhoon is expected to bring rainstorms and strong winds with some areas facing extreme precipitation while regions directly in the path of its centre could experience gusts of up to 60 meters per second reports Xinhua news agencyThe provincial flood drought and wind control headquarters have urged all localities and departments to act with the highest standards strictest requirements and most concrete measures and have ordered major affected areas to suspend classes work production public transportation and business operations Cities including Zhuhai Shenzhen and Jiangmen have implemented these suspensionsSome highway sections and bridges in Zhuhai have been closed and the Zhuhai Port of the Hong KongZhuhaiMacao Bridge has suspended outbound passenger clearance with the main bridge closed simultaneouslyIn the neighbouring Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region all passenger and ferry ships in the coastal waters of Guangxi have been suspendedMaritime authorities in Guangxis Beihai City have restricted the BeihaiWeizhou Island passenger ship route to disembarkation only with no boarding allowed and the evacuation of the remaining 6000 tourists from Weizhou Island to Beihai is scheduled for completion on TuesdayThe typhoon is also expected to impact the island province of Hainan with the provincial capital Haikou to suspend classes ferry services park operations work and business activities starting later on Tuesday or Wednesday All train services to and from the island will be cancelled on WednesdayChina has a fourtier emergency response system with Level I being the most severe response IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/chinas-guangdong-raises-emergency-response-to-highest-for-typhoon-ragasa-640113.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-koreas-ex-prez-yoon-rejects-special-counsel-summons-for-questioning-this-week-640122.html Seoul Sep 23 IANS South Koreas former President Yoon Suk Yeol has notified correctional officials he will not appear before a special counsel team for questioning later this week officials said on TuesdaynbspOn Saturday special counsel Cho Eunsuks team summoned the jailed former president to appear for questioning on Wednesday over allegations related to his shortlived martial law declaration in December Yonhap News Agency reportednbspI understand that former President Yoon verbally informed a detention centre officer of his nonappearance assistant special counsel Park Jiyoung said in a briefing We will see if he actually does not appear tomorrow and then consider whether to summon him againChos team had been expected to use this weeks session to question Yoon about allegations that he ordered a drone dispatch to Pyongyang last October to allegedly provoke North Korea and justify his martial law declarationnbspThe team has so far only questioned military officials about the operation with Saturdays summons marking the first time investigators have asked Yoon to appear for questioning over the allegationsnbspYoon who has remained in custody at Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang just south of the capital since July has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power through the martial law bidMeanwhile a Seoul court will hold a hearing on Yoons request for bail later this week legal sources said on TuesdaynbspThe hearing will be held at the Seoul Central District Court at 1030 am on Friday after Yoon filed for bail last week citing his right to defend himself and issues with his healthnbspThe former president has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection through his martial law attempt and a second trial on separate charges of violating the rights of Cabinet members and creating a revised proclamation after the martial law declaration is set to begin on FridayThe bail hearing is expected to take place immediately after the first hearing of the second trialnbspLast week legal sources said that Yoon Suk Yeol has requested to be released on bail citing the need to prepare his defence and health concernsnbspThe application was filed on September 19 with the Seoul Central District Court which is handling charges against him for obstruction of duties and abuse of authority A date for the bail hearing has not yet been set Yonhap News Agency reported https://dailyworld.in/international/south-koreas-ex-prez-yoon-rejects-special-counsel-summons-for-questioning-this-week-640122.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/baloch-human-rights-group-says-98-cases-of-enforced-disappearances-reported-in-august-640124.html Quetta Sep 23 A human rights organisation on Tuesday revealed that 98 cases of enforced disappearances were documented across Pakistan in the month of August In its August 2025 report Paank Baloch National Movements Human Rights Department mentioned that the cases were reported across 13 districts including Karachi and Multan with most of them being reported in Quetta 21 Kech 19 and Dera Bugti 14In a post shared on X Paank mentioned that 32 victims were released many bearing signs of tortureBalochistan has been reeling under the endless atrocities at the hands of Pakistani authorities who facilitate death squads in the region to carry out enforced disappearances extrajudicial killings and illegal detentions of Baloch peopleOn Monday Paank reported that Pakistani security forces forcibly took Hilal Murad a resident of the Baloch ward area in Gwadar city from his homeOn September 20 2025 Hilal Murad son of Murad a resident of the Baloch ward area in Gwadar city was forcibly taken from his home by Pakistani security forces Paank posted on XSeparately the human rights body also stated that Akhtaj Shoukat a resident of Kech districts Hoshap area was forcibly taken from his home by Pakistani security forcesMeanwhile Pakistani politician Maulana FazlUrRehman alleged recently that the countrys authorities are involved in kidnapping and enforced disappearances across BalochistanHis remarks came amid an escalating wave of enforced disappearances in the province with families continuously staging protests demanding the return of their missing kinIn a video that went viral over the weekend Rehman said If you go to Balochistan where there is a state of insecurity people are kidnapped and disappearedRecently noted American human rights lawyer and researcher Reed Brody called for international scrutiny over enforced disappearances unlawful killings and the targeting of women activists by Pakistani authorities in BalochistanHe made these remarks addressing the 7th Global Balochistan Conference in Geneva held on the sidelines of the 60th regular session of the UN Human Rights CouncilThe event organised by the Baloch National Movement BNM witnessed participation from several political figures human rights activists and intellectualsThe people of Balochistan are not alone The struggle for truth and accountability can be long but it is never hopeless We must insist on international scrutiny said BrodyWe must call for independent investigations into enforced disappearances unlawful killings and the targeting of women activists The international community must not look away while basic rights like the right to speak to protest and to mourn are denied he addedThe American human rights lawyer called on the Pakistani authorities to immediately release those detained for peaceful protest restore internet access in affected regions and end the unlawful use of force in BalochistanHe urged the international community stating to support the voices of victims demand accountability and not let geopolitics blind them to serious abusesAnd to the survivors in Balochistan your courage matters History shows that truth can be delayed but it cannot be buried Brody asserted IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/baloch-human-rights-group-says-98-cases-of-enforced-disappearances-reported-in-august-640124.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-special-counsel-team-extends-probe-into-ex-first-lady-by-30-days-640126.html Seoul Sep 23 A special counsel team in South Korea on Tuesday said it will extend its investigation into corruption allegations surrounding former first lady Kim Keon Hee by 30 days The team led by special counsel Min Joongki said the extension will be effective on Wednesday and comply with the relevant law that allows a 30day extension at his discretion Yonhap news agency reportedMins team has been widening its probe of Kim the wife of South Koreas former President Yoon Suk Yeol since indicting her last month on charges of corruption and bribery She has been held in custody since August 13A formal investigation will begin this week into allegations she helped cover up a bullying case involving the daughter of the presidential secretary for protocol in July 2023 assistant special counsel Kim Hyongkun said during a press briefingKim Seunghee the then secretary resigned later that year amid allegations that his daughter who was then in third grade in elementary school had assaulted a student one year younger than her and damaged her corneaThe former first lady was found to have held an eightminute phone call with the vice education minister immediately after the alleged assaultThe special counsel team said it has summoned an official on a school violence committee involved in imposing a 10day suspension on the daughterThe official has been asked to appear as a reference on ThursdayEarlier in the day Unification Church leader Han Hakja was placed under arrest over bribery allegations linked to the former first ladyThe Seoul Central District Court issued a warrant for her arrest citing concern that she could destroy evidenceSpecial counsel Min Joongkis team had requested the warrant last week on charges of violations of the Political Funds Act and the antigraft law subornation of evidence destruction and embezzlementWe humbly accept the courts decision the church said in a statement shortly after the warrant was issued We will faithfully engage in the forthcoming investigation and trial to determine the truth and do our best to use this as an occasion to restore trust in our churchWe sincerely apologise for causing concern to the people it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-special-counsel-team-extends-probe-into-ex-first-lady-by-30-days-640126.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/sikhs-for-justice-in-the-crosshairs-agencies-target-khalistans-most-dangerous-arm-640133.html New Delhi Sep 23 IANS The arrest of Inderjeet Singh Gosal in Canada is a clear indicator that the agencies have begun their crackdown against the Sikhs for Justice SFJ Gosal is the main coordinator for the proscribed SFJ in Canada and was responsible for holding several referendums that sought support for a separate Khalistan nation carved out of PunjabnbspThe Indian agencies have been sharing Intelligence on a regular basis with their counterparts in Canada While information about outfits such as Babbar Khalsa International is being shared this time the focus is largely on the SFJIndian officials have warned that the SFJ unlike the Babbar Khalsa International may not be carrying out an armed struggle but the fact is that the outfit that is led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is far more dangerousnbspThe SFJ runs the propaganda wing of the Khalistan movement and it is dangerous since it manages to create a perception that their struggle is genuine Moreover the SFJ has a wide reach on social media and it has used it to its best ability to spread false propaganda against IndianbspIn fact most of the campaigns have been around the creation of a Khalistan nation It has repeatedly targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and called for his assassination as well The SFJ was also trying to infiltrate the farmers protests in India with the intention of radicalising the Sikh people and urging them to raise arms against the Indian governmentIn several conversations that the agencies of India and Canada have had both nations have acknowledged the danger posed by the SFJ In Canada it has now ramped up efforts to radicalise the Sikh population although only a small minority have been swayed However officials of both nations agree that even if the number of those radicalised may be smaller these people are enough to disrupt peace and spread their propagandanbspIndia has raised concerns with Ottawa that the Khalistanis are using Canada as a launch pad to strike in India There are multiple dossiers shared which clearly prove the role of the SFJ in coordinating with other terror groups and gangsters to carry out targeted killings and terror attacks in India However what has worried the Canadian agencies is that there is a good chance that the violence may spill out on the streets of their countryThe SFJ has been making false claims that it has the backing of the Canadian establishment Following the arrest of Gosal the SFJ confirmed the development It however falsely claimed that the arrest of Gosal in connection with a firearms case is in fact a case about the Canadian governments duty to protect the life of a Canadian citizen The SFJ said that action was taken to protect him from the imminent and grave threat to his life from the Indian governmentnbspThe SFJ once brought out the issue relating to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar a Babbar Khalsa International operative It said that the threat continues against campaigners for the socalled Khalistan referendum that Nijjar ledAll these claims made by the SFJ are entirely false Gosal was charged by the Canadian authorities after the violent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton on November 3 2024nbspIndia has on several occasions pointed out that if Canada did not act it would soon become detrimental to them Following a meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his counterpart Nathalie G Drouin in New Delhi on September 18 the latter said We discussed our respective security concerns and committed to noninterference including refraining from transnational repression We also agreed on the importance of reciprocal exchange of information and mutual responsiveness https://dailyworld.in/international/sikhs-for-justice-in-the-crosshairs-agencies-target-khalistans-most-dangerous-arm-640133.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/japanese-city-passes-ordinance-capping-daily-screen-time-to-two-hours-640139.html Tokyo Sep 23 Toyoake in Aichi Prefecture has become the first municipality in Japan to introduce an ordinance asking all residents to limit their use of smartphones Toyoakes municipal assembly passed an ordinance limiting daily leisurerelated screen time for all residents to two hours the local media reported on TuesdayThe ordinance reports cited aims at preventing an excessive use of smartphones personal computers and tablet devices It was approved via a majority vote at a plenary session of the assemblyTaking effect October 1 the local law serves as guidance and does not apply to the use of such devices for study work or household chores and there are no penalties for the violatorsToyoake Mayor Masafumi Kouki was quoted by Japan Times as saying that the ordinance is only part of the citys measures on resident health and the aim was for residents to see whether they are losing sleep by using smartphones too muchWere not rejecting smartphones he told reporters the daily reported highlighting that the ordinance is also designed to increase conversations within families and calls for refraining from using smartphones and other gadgets after 9 pm for elementary school students and younger children and after 10 pm for junior high school students and others under18 yearsSome residents have argued that the municipality should not meddle in family matters while others have taken the move by the assembly as an opportunity for discussions with family members The municipal assembly also adopted a supplementary resolution calling on the city to review the ordinance when necessary after examining its effects and residents opinions on a regular basis the Japanese media reportedAccording to the Nippon Television Network NTV during previous deliberations even council members who supported the ordinance repeatedly pointed out that the explanation to residents was insufficientThe city council also passed a supplementary resolution that includes measures to respect the diversity of residents lifestyles and home environments and to provide clear and concise information to avoid misunderstandings NTV reported IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/japanese-city-passes-ordinance-capping-daily-screen-time-to-two-hours-640139.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/sikhs-for-justice-in-the-crosshairs-agencies-target-khalistans-most-dangerous-arm-640147.html New Delhi Sep 23 The arrest of Inderjeet Singh Gosal in Canada is a clear indicator that the agencies have begun their crackdown against the Sikhs for Justice SFJ Gosal is the main coordinator for the proscribed SFJ in Canada and was responsible for holding several referendums that sought support for a separate Khalistan nation carved out of Punjab The Indian agencies have been sharing Intelligence on a regular basis with their counterparts in Canada While information about outfits such as Babbar Khalsa International is being shared this time the focus is largely on the SFJIndian officials have warned that the SFJ unlike the Babbar Khalsa International may not be carrying out an armed struggle but the fact is that the outfit that is led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is far more dangerousThe SFJ runs the propaganda wing of the Khalistan movement and it is dangerous since it manages to create a perception that their struggle is genuine Moreover the SFJ has a wide reach on social media and it has used it to its best ability to spread false propaganda against IndiaIn fact most of the campaigns have been around the creation of a Khalistan nation It has repeatedly targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and called for his assassination as well The SFJ was also trying to infiltrate the farmers protests in India with the intention of radicalising the Sikh people and urging them to raise arms against the Indian governmentIn several conversations that the agencies of India and Canada have had both nations have acknowledged the danger posed by the SFJ In Canada it has now ramped up efforts to radicalise the Sikh population although only a small minority have been swayed However officials of both nations agree that even if the number of those radicalised may be smaller these people are enough to disrupt peace and spread their propagandaIndia has raised concerns with Ottawa that the Khalistanis are using Canada as a launch pad to strike in India There are multiple dossiers shared which clearly prove the role of the SFJ in coordinating with other terror groups and gangsters to carry out targeted killings and terror attacks in India However what has worried the Canadian agencies is that there is a good chance that the violence may spill out on the streets of their countryThe SFJ has been making false claims that it has the backing of the Canadian establishment Following the arrest of Gosal the SFJ confirmed the development It however falsely claimed that the arrest of Gosal in connection with a firearms case is in fact a case about the Canadian governments duty to protect the life of a Canadian citizen The SFJ said that action was taken to protect him from the imminent and grave threat to his life from the Indian governmentThe SFJ once brought out the issue relating to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar a Babbar Khalsa International operative It said that the threat continues against campaigners for the socalled Khalistan referendum that Nijjar ledAll these claims made by the SFJ are entirely false Gosal was charged by the Canadian authorities after the violent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton on November 3 2024India has on several occasions pointed out that if Canada did not act it would soon become detrimental to them Following a meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his counterpart Nathalie G Drouin in New Delhi on September 18 the latter said We discussed our respective security concerns and committed to noninterference including refraining from transnational repression We also agreed on the importance of reciprocal exchange of information and mutual responsiveness IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/sikhs-for-justice-in-the-crosshairs-agencies-target-khalistans-most-dangerous-arm-640147.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/global-education-for-peace-award-honours-jgu-for-championing-world-peace-through-higher-education-640150.html Washington DC Sep 23 OP Jindal Global University JGU has been conferred with the 2025 Global Education for Peace Award by the STAR Scholars Network This prestigious international recognition celebrates higher education institutions that exemplify an unwavering commitment to advancing peace through education The announcement was made on the occasion of the United Nations International Day of Peace 21 September underscoring the significance of education as a cornerstone for building a more just inclusive and sustainable worldThe Global Education for Peace Award honours and recognises higher education institutions HEIs around the world that contribute significantly to the promotion of global peace through education It celebrates institutions that integrate global perspectives into their curriculum foster a sense of global citizenship among their students and cultivate a culture of dialogue and empathy that transcends borders The award highlights the role of universities as sanctuaries of intellectual freedom intercultural understanding and ethical leadership at a time when humanity faces growing polarisation and conflictSubmissions were evaluated by a distinguished global committee based on the depth breadth and impact of each institutions efforts in promoting global education and peace The rigorous selection process considered the innovative nature of courses the effectiveness of pedagogical approaches and the extent of international collaboration and community engagementAccording to Professor John C Weidman Emeritus Professor University of Pittsburgh and Chair of the Award Selection Committee JGUs work represents a model for how universities worldwide can integrate peace justice and sustainability into the heart of their educational missionThis year OP Jindal Global University shares this global honour with the American University in the Emirates UAE Together the two institutions stand as beacons of hope and inspiration showcasing the transformative role of universities in fostering global citizenship intercultural understanding ethical leadership and a culture of peaceThe award recognises JGUs Curriculum grounded in ethical leadership critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning Over 550 international collaborations enabling global dialogue and cooperation Commitment to community engagement and social responsibility Initiatives that prepare students to become informed responsible and compassionate global citizensThese achievements reflect JGUs vision of making education a force for peace justice and sustainability in society They also highlight the universitys role as one of the most globally connected institutions in India advancing crosscultural dialogue and preparing future leaders to address humanitys shared challengesProfessor Dr Uttam Gaulee President of the STAR Scholars Network said In honouring these exemplary institutions we celebrate the transformative power of education as the most peaceful revolution the world has ever known Their dedication shows us that the surest path to peace begins in classrooms that dare to imagine a more just and compassionate worldNaveen Jindal Chancellor of OP Jindal Global University remarked This award is a testament to JGUs unwavering belief that education is the greatest catalyst for peace Our vision has always been to build a university that transcends borders fosters harmony and equips future generations to solve humanitys most pressing challenges I am deeply proud of our community for making JGU a symbol of hope and global solidarityProfessor Dr C Raj Kumar Vice Chancellor of OP Jindal Global University observed This recognition is not only a profound honour but also a powerful reaffirmation of the ideals upon which JGU was built At a time when humanity faces polarisation and conflict universities must stand as sanctuaries of dialogue empathy and collective wisdom This award belongs to our faculty students staff alumni and partners who embody the spirit of education as a force for peace On this International Day of Peace we rededicate ourselves to advancing knowledge nurturing compassion and shaping leaders who will contribute to a more just inclusive and sustainable world IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/global-education-for-peace-award-honours-jgu-for-championing-world-peace-through-higher-education-640150.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-scientists-supercharge-vinegars-antibacterial-effect-with-nanoparticles-640151.html Sydney Sep 23 Adding microscopic particles to vinegar enhances their effectiveness against dangerous bacterial infections and may help combat antibiotic resistance new research led by researchers at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute Flinders University in Australia and the University of Bergen in Norway shows The research shows that antimicrobial nanoparticles made from carbon and cobalt can enhance the natural bacterial killing qualities of acetic acid commonly known as vinegar according to a statement released on Tuesday by the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteThe statement says that vinegar has been used as a disinfectant for centuries but it is effective only against certain bacteria and it does not kill the most dangerous types reports Xinhua news agencyThe researchers found that the antimicrobial nanoparticles made from carbon and cobalt could kill several dangerous bacterial species and their activity was enhanced when added to a weak vinegar solution The findings have been published in the international journal ACS NanoAs part of the research the researchers added cobaltcontaining carbon quantum dot nanoparticles to weak acetic acid to create a potent antimicrobial treatment They used this mixture against several pathogenic species including the drugresistant Staphylococcus aureus Escherichia coli E coli and Enterococcus faecalisThe acidic environment from the vinegar made bacterial cells swell and take up the nanoparticle treatment said molecular biologist Adam Truskewycz who is the studys coauthorOnce exposed the nanoparticles appear to attack dangerous bacteria from both inside the bacterial cell and also on its surface causing them to burst Truskewycz said adding the approach was nontoxic to human cells and was shown to remove bacterial infections from mice wounds without affecting healingThe antibacterial boost in vinegar found in the research could potentially be an important contribution towards the ongoing battle against the rising antimicrobial resistance levels worldwide with an estimated 45 million deaths associated with a direct infectious disease according to the statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-scientists-supercharge-vinegars-antibacterial-effect-with-nanoparticles-640151.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/ready-to-implement-start-restrictions-if-washington-acts-in-similar-manner-russia-640152.html Moscow Sep 23 Russia on Monday said that it is ready to implement quantitative limitations on the Strategic Offensive Arms START within a year but this requires a mirror position from the United States We are prepared to continue enforcing quantitative restrictions for a year Thats what we will do But this of course requires a mirror position from the United States the Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters in MoscowHe mentioned that the treaty on measures for the further reduction and limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms was discussed during meetings between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump during their recent meetingThe topic of the New START Treaty was generally raised during the contacts between Putin and Trump in the sense that time is running out and we are truly on the threshold of a situation where we could be left without any bilateral documents regulating the area of stability and security Peskov said while replying to a question from Tass news agency about whether the topic of extending the New START Treaty was discussed during the meeting between Putin and TrumpPutin he revealed did not communicate the idea of extending the START treaty to the US President in advanceOn September 22 Putin stated at a meeting with the Security Council that Russia is prepared to continue adhering to the central quantitative restrictions outlined in the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty for a year after it expires in February 2026 but emphasised that Moscows retention of the START restrictions is only possible if Washington acts in a similar manner Tass reportedThe Russian Presidential spokesperson stated that no specific date for the next meeting between both leaders has yet been determinedThere is no clear understanding yet about the date of the next contact between the two presidents Peskov told Russias stateowned news agencyAccording to the US Department of State the Treaty between the United States of America and the Russian Federation on Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms also known as the New START Treaty enhances US national security by placing verifiable limits on all Russian deployed intercontinentalrange nuclear weapons and both countries have agreed to extend the treaty through February 4 2026 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/ready-to-implement-start-restrictions-if-washington-acts-in-similar-manner-russia-640152.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-koreas-ex-president-yoon-to-attend-court-hearing-on-friday-over-martial-law-640175.html Seoul Sep 23 South Koreas former ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol will attend a court hearing later this week for a new case over his involvement in his failed martial law bid Yoons legal team said Tuesday In addition to an ongoing insurrection trial a special counsel team investigating the case has additionally indicted Yoon for allegedly abusing his authority and obstructing the exercise of rights Yonhap News Agency reportedYoon will attend the court hearing for the new case on Friday his legal team said in a statement citing legal procedures that mandate his attendance for the first court hearingYoon who has remained in custody since July has not shown up for court hearings for the 10th consecutive time in a trial on his charges of leading an insurrection citing health reasonsAlongside the first court hearing for the new case on Friday the Seoul Central District Court is also set to hold a hearing for his bail on the same dayYoon filed for bail last week citing his right to defend himself and issues with his healthThe former president has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection through his martial law attempt and a second trial on separate charges of violating the rights of Cabinet members and creating a revised proclamation after the martial law declaration is set to begin FridayOn September 20 a special counsel team had notified Yoon to appear for questioning next week over allegations linked to his failed martial law bidSpecial counsel Cho Eunsuks team said it had issued the summons to Yoon to appear for questioning at the Seoul High Prosecutors Office on WednesdayIt would be the first time investigators attempt to question him over the allegation of inciting foreign aggressionThe team suspects Yoon of giving direct orders to the Drone Operations Command to dispatch drones to Pyongyang in an attempt to provoke North Korean military responses and allegedly create a pretext for the imposition of martial lawFormer drone command chief Major General Kim Yongdae Joint Chiefs of Staff JCS former Chairman Adm Kim Myungsoo and JCS operations chief Lt Gen Lee Seungoh had already been questioned over the allegationsThe commanders had denied any link between the drone dispatch and Yoons martial law arguing the operations were part of response measures to the Norths balloon campaigns against the South IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-koreas-ex-president-yoon-to-attend-court-hearing-on-friday-over-martial-law-640175.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 18:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/drone-incident-is-serious-attack-says-danish-pm-640200.html Oslo Sep 23 Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Tuesday said a drone incident that shut down Copenhagen Airport for several hours late Monday was a serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure The incident should be viewed within the broader context of hybrid threats across Europe she added We have seen drones over Poland activity in Romania violations of Estonian airspace cyberattacks on European airports over the weekend and now drones in Denmark and Norway Frederiksen told reporters Xinhua News Agency reportedRussian involvement cannot be ruled out she underlined noting that Europe faces a series of hybrid attacks and sabotage attemptsCopenhagens Kastrup Airport suspended operations for around four hours on Monday evening affecting approximately 20000 passengers Delays and cancellations continued into Tuesday with travellers missing study trips honeymoons business journeys and sports eventsThe Danish National Police confirmed that the National Operational Staff a special crisis response unit has been activated at its lowest level meaning heightened surveillance and interagency coordination Danish police are treating the case as a drone attackIn neighbouring Norway Oslos Gardermoen Airport was also forced to close around midnight Monday after drone sightings The airport reopened at around 330 am on Tuesday morning Norways Police Security Service said it is in dialogue with Danish authorities to assess whether the two incidents are connectedSeveral flights to Oslo were diverted to other Norwegian airports leaving passengers stranded overnight Airlines reported delays cancellations and rerouted services throughout Tuesday Avinor the stateowned operator of Norwegian airports said travelers could expect continued disruptionOn September 12 the Danish government announced the largest arms purchase in the countrys history approving a 58billion Danish kroner 91 billion US dollars acquisition of groundbased air defence systemsAccording to Denmarks Ministry of Defense the deal includes eight medium and longrange air defense systems to be supplied by several European manufacturers including firms from France Italy Germany and NorwayDenmark has not possessed groundbased air defence systems since 2005 The new package will introduce SAMPT longrange systems from a FrancoItalian consortium complemented by mediumrange systems from manufacturers in Norway Germany and FranceThe ministry said the systems will provide nationwide coverage strengthening protection for cities military installations and critical infrastructure The first unit is expected to be operational in 2025 with deployment gradually expanding thereafterThis announcement follows an initial package unveiled in June worth over 6 billion Danish kroner aimed at quickly fielding airdefense capability Together these procurements are designed to create a layered defense of Danish airspace IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/drone-incident-is-serious-attack-says-danish-pm-640200.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-it-firms-to-tackle-h-1b-visa-fee-hike-with-local-hiring-offshoring-and-nearshoring-report-640202.html New Delhi Sep 23 Indian IT companies are expected to adjust their strategies to deal with the recent sharp hike in H1B visa fees announced by the US administration a new report said on Tuesday On September 19 US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a fee of 100000 for new H1B visa applications a steep jump from the existing cost of around 1500The move is likely to hit Indian IT firms which have traditionally relied on the visa program to send skilled workers to the USThe data compiled by Nuvama however said that the overall impact on Indian IT companies may remain limited as the sector has already reduced its dependence on H1B visas over the past eight yearsThis shift has given companies a head start in cushioning the effects of the latest policy change the report saidAccording to Nuvama firms are expected to tackle the higher costs through measures such as nearshoring offshoring and hiring more local talent in the US While some shortterm financial and operational challenges are unavoidable in the longer run increased offshoring is expected to ease the pressureThe report also noted that most Indian IT services firms may avoid paying the new fee altogether as it makes H1B visas uneconomicalThe median salary for Indian IT workers on H1B visas ranges from 80000 to 120000 and adding another 100000 fee would make the arrangement financially unviableInstead companies are likely to look at other options such as renegotiating contracts with clients to share costs hiring locally in the US or expanding nearshore operations in countries like Canada and Latin America which share the same time zone as the USA stronger focus on offshoring to India or other costefficient regions is also expected as per the reportThe report added that while the industry will face volatility in the near term the situation is likely to stabilise as IT companies adapt to the new environment and discover more efficient ways of doing business IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-it-firms-to-tackle-h-1b-visa-fee-hike-with-local-hiring-offshoring-and-nearshoring-report-640202.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-proposes-to-scrap-h-1b-lottery-system-floats-new-rules-640217.html Washington Sep 23 Days after US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to significantly curtail the H1B visa programme the US Department of Homeland Security DHS has proposed to amend its regulations governing the process The DHS proposal seeks to scrap the existing lottery system and implement a weighted selection process that would generally favour the allocation of H1B visas to higherskilled and higherpaid aliens while maintaining the opportunity for employers to secure H1B workers at all wage levelsThe initiative will be opened for a 30day public comment periodThe H1B programme capped at 85000 new visas annually allowed US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in fields like technology and engineering through a random lottery systemLast week Trump signed a proclamation to crack down on H1B visas announcing a 100000 fee for each new applicationThe proclamation caused immense confusion over the weekend as it seemed to suggest that it would impact the current H1B visa holders who may face hurdles in returning to the United StatesThe White House issued a clarification to IANS on Saturday saying that this is a onetime fee that applies only to new visas and not renewals or current visa holdersThis is a onetime fee that applies only to the petition It ONLY applies to new visas not renewals or current visa holders It will first apply in the upcoming lottery cycle a White House official told IANSA White House spokesperson also clarified to IANS that the policy would discourage companies from spamming the systemPresident Trump promised to put American workers first and this commonsense action does just that by discouraging companies from spamming the system and driving down wages It also gives certainty to American businesses who actually want to bring highskilled workers to our great country but have been trampled on by abuses of the system White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers saidSigning the proclamation at the White House on Friday Trump said the incentive is to hire American workersThe new proposal was announced as two senior Ministers External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met Trump administration officials in New York on MondayAfter his meeting with Jaishankar US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that India is of critical value to his country and welcomed its ongoing interaction in tradeJaishankar posted on X Our conversation covered a range of bilateral and international issues of current concern Agreed on the importance of sustained engagement to progress on priority areasCommerce and Industry Minister Goyal also met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Monday in New York to negotiate the first tranche of a trade agreement between the two sidesSources told IANS that the meeting focused on addressing key sticking points and both sides remain hopeful of reaching an interim understanding soon IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-administration-proposes-to-scrap-h-1b-lottery-system-floats-new-rules-640217.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 22:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/french-president-macrons-convoy-stopped-in-new-york-video-goes-viral-640221.html New York Sep 23 French President Emmanuel Macrons convoy was stopped by police in New York City late Monday night as roads were blocked for US President Donald Trumps motorcade a viral video has revealed The incident happened during Macrons New York visit to address the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly UNGA The video which has gone viral on social media shows a NYPD cop telling the French President that he can proceed further due to the traffic restrictions imposed on the routeIm really sorry Mr President everything is currently blocked a police officer is heard telling Macron as the European leader tries to convince him to let him throughStanding near a barricade Macron then makes a call seemingly to Trump Macron said How are you Guess what Im waiting in the street because everything is closed for you He then laughs off and is seen walking on the New York streets obliging people for photos One person was also seen kissing Macron on the foreheadIn his speech at the UNGA in New York on Monday Macron announced Frances formal recognition of the State of Palestine He called for an end to Israels war in Gaza release of Israeli hostages by Hamas and the revival of the idea of a twoState solutionThe time has come Because the worst might yet happen whether it is the loss of countless more civilian lives the expulsion of the population of Gaza towards Egypt the annexation of the West Bank the death of the hostages held by Hamas or irreversible events that change the situation on the ground forever That is why That is why we must here and now pave this path towards peace because since July events have accelerated at a terrifying pace he saidFrom where we stand now it is to be feared that the Abraham Accords or the Camp David Accords could be called into question by Israels action and that peace in the Middle East might become impossible for a long time to come And so we bear now a historic responsibility We must do all we can to preserve even the possibility of a twostate solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security The time has come That is why true to my countrys historic commitment in the Middle East for peace between the Israeli people and the Palestinian people I declare that France today recognises the State of Palestine Macron added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/french-president-macrons-convoy-stopped-in-new-york-video-goes-viral-640221.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 23:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/nepals-ev-imports-slump-as-trade-routes-with-china-remain-shut-640227.html Kathmandu Sep 23 Nepals import of electric fourwheelers has slumped in the past two months largely due to the disruption of two key trade routes with China caused by massive landslides and floods According to the Department of Customs Nepal imported just 486 electric fourwheelers in the first two months of the current fiscal year 202526 which began midJuly This marks a sharp decline from the 1602 units imported during the same period in the last fiscalChina Nepals largest supplier of EVs recorded a drastic fall in exports with only 240 vehicles shipped in the twomonth period down from 1125 units last year India the secondlargest supplier also saw a decline exporting 207 vehicles compared to 475 units a year agoThe drop follows the closure of two major border crossings The RasuwagadhiKerung checkpoint has been shut since early July after floods destroyed the NepalChina Friendship Bridge a dry port and other infrastructure on the Nepal side Meanwhile the TatopaniNyalam crossing has been blocked for the past month by landslides though partial clearance was reported on MondayThe main reason behind the reduced import of electric vehicles from China is the blockade on these two trade routes Samir Shrestha Chief Marketing Officer at Cimex Inc Pvt Ltd the authorised distributor of BYD cars in Nepal told IANS We have started using the newlyopened Mustang route since midSeptember to bring in vehiclesThe Department of Customs recently announced that this border point has remained fully operational starting September 15 Nepals Central Bank has also stated in a recent notice that importers from Nepal could use this route to get goods from China through a letter of credit This arrangement means that the third trade route between Nepal and China has now been formally opened for international trade said Kishor Bartuala Information Officer at the customs department Earlier this route was being used for cross border trade of goods among the people of the bordering region only he revealedThe customs department said over 200 electric four wheelers were brought to Nepal from China after the opening of the border point for international trade last weekShrestha stressed that demand for Chinese EVs remains strong but acknowledged that some customers have cancelled bookings following concerns over vehicle damage during recent GenZ protests which left over 70 people dead and caused widespread destructionFor years Indiamade Internal Combustion Engine ICE vehicles dominated Nepals auto market But consumer preference has shifted sharply toward EVs giving Chinese brands a commanding presence Last fiscal Nepal imported 13578 electric fourwheelers with 752 per cent coming from China and the rest from India Germany the US and other countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/nepals-ev-imports-slump-as-trade-routes-with-china-remain-shut-640227.html Tue, 23 Sep 2025 23:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/super-typhoon-ragasa-batters-northern-philippines-640008.html Manila Sep 22 Super Typhoon Ragasa slammed into the northern Philippines on Monday unleashing torrential rains and strong winds that triggered flooding toppled trees and tore roofs off homes The intense weather prompted the evacuation of more than 10000 residents as authorities scrambled to ensure public safety Roads in many areas became impassable due to rising floodwaters further complicating relief effortsRagasa combined with an enhanced southwest monsoon led to the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in Metro Manila and 29 provinces on Monday Xinhua news agency reportedThe Philippines state weather bureau PAGASA said in its latest advisory that Ragasa was moving westward at 25 km per hour packing winds of 215 km per hour and gusts up to 295 km per hourRagasa is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Tuesday morning said PAGASAOn average around 20 typhoons strike the Philippines annually The archipelago is particularly vulnerable to tropical cyclones which often bring heavy rains flooding and strong winds resulting in casualties and destruction of crops and propertiesMeanwhile Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Monday ordered ministries sectors and localities to take early and highestlevel measures in response to Typhoon Ragasa Vietnam News Agency reportedHe said the priority is to ensure peoples safety and minimize property damage for both residents and the stateAuthorities in coastal localities from Quang Ninh to Quang Ngai have been asked to cancel unnecessary meetings and mobilize all resources to cope with the typhoonThe Ministry of Education and Training has directed schools in affected areas to prepare online learning plans and suspend classes if necessaryAccording to the National Center for HydroMeteorological Forecasting the typhoon is expected to make landfall between Quang Ninh and Ha Tinh provinces on Thursday with strong intensity and complex developments IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/super-typhoon-ragasa-batters-northern-philippines-640008.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 21:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/strategic-deals-brutal-consequences-pakistans-genocide-under-the-garb-of-counterterrorism-640012.html New Delhi Sep 22 The Indian agencies are reporting that Pakistans aggression under pressure from both the US and China is only going to increase in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP Pakistan may have tomtommed to all that it has made some strategic moves where the US and China are concerned However in reality it is set to indulge in genocide in Balochistan Intelligence Bureau officials say that under the garb of fighting the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP the real intention is to target the people of the region and indulge in genocide The Pakistan Army is facing stiff resistance in these regions and hence wants to target even the innocents under the garb of fighting terror outfitsTodays incident during which thirty people were killed in air strikes in KP is an example of this Pakistan used China made J17 fighter jets to drop eight Chinese L6 bombs laserguided precision munitions on a village in the Tirah Valley The local community is already on the edge owing to the aggression by the Pakistan Army Whether it is in Balochistan or KP the people have complained that under the garb of fighting terror the Pakistan Army is trying to wipe out the local populationIntelligence reports say while Pakistan has always been an aggressor in these regions against the local people such action is likely to get worse in the days to comeThe deals that Pakistan signed with the US and China may look good on paper But both countries have shifted the onus largely on Pakistan to deliver and ensure security of their projects While China has said that it wants the TTP out of the picture as the terror group is hitting their projects the US has made it clear that it wants terror groups in Balochistan out of the way so that the minerals deal can be executed peacefullyPakistan is currently in a dilemma due to these demands First and foremost it is not able to fight terror groups in both regions The Pakistan Army has faced embarrassing losses in recent times Further Pakistan has no support of Afghanistan on these issues However the thing that is hurting Pakistan the most is that it does not have the support of the localsThe locals have for decades complained that the resources available in their regions are being looted by the Pakistan Army None of the benefits get passed on to them The locals have accrued the Pakistan government of robbing their resources and investing them in mainland Pakistan while they continue to face hardshipsIn such a situation the Pakistan Army has decided to go on the offensive and is targeting the innocent localsPakistans actions have been called by the international community in the past as well Amnesty Internationals South Asia office had slammed the utter disregard that the army has shown for civilian life This statement had come in the aftermath of a drone strike in which a child had been killedThere was a huge criticism following a March 10 strike in which 10 civilians were killed in the Katlang area of the KP province However after every such hit Pakistan has said that the intention was to flush out terrorists but in reality the intention was of killing the localsFollowing Mondays military strike even the opposition in Pakistan criticised the action Pakistan TehreekeInsaf said that no words can encompass this sorrow and grief Drone attacks and bombings have sown so may seeds of hatred Nothing will be left the party said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/strategic-deals-brutal-consequences-pakistans-genocide-under-the-garb-of-counterterrorism-640012.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 22:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/17-rescued-as-floods-ravage-turkeys-black-sea-region-640022.html Istanbul Sep 22 Seventeen people stranded by severe flooding in Turkeys northern Black Sea region were rescued by military helicopters on Monday authorities said as heavy rains caused widespread damage in the area Since Saturday the floods have triggered landslides and inundations that have collapsed roads and bridges across Rize Giresun Artvin and Trabzon provinces leaving many residents stranded and prompting largescale rescue operationsTwo helicopters from the Land Forces Command and one from the Air Forces Command were dispatched to Rize successfully evacuating all 17 residents the Ministry of National Defence announced Xinhua news agency reportedAuthorities said access to Rizes highland plateaus is now being maintained by helicopter following the floods Local media reported that riverside bungalows a popular attraction for tourists seeking scenic views were swept away by the floodwatersTransport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said 14 million liras about 338000 US dollars in emergency funds have been allocated to Rize adding that 1428 personnel supported by 567 pieces of machinery and equipment remain engaged in response and recovery effortsMeanwhile other parts of Turkey are experiencing the opposite extreme severe drought with national rainfall plunging far below longterm averages and threatening water supplies and agricultureAccording to data released Monday by the State Meteorological Service Turkey received 4011 kilogrammes of rainfall per square metre between October 2024 and August 2025 27 per cent below the longterm average and 29 per cent lower than the same period last year marking the lowest national rainfall in 52 yearsThe decline has been most pronounced in Southeastern Anatolia where precipitation dropped more than 53 per cent below seasonal norms The Mediterranean region recorded its driest year in 51 years while the Marmara and Aegean regions saw their lowest rainfall in 18 years In the capital Ankara this water year was the driest in 47 years Only parts of the Black Sea region reported aboveaverage rainfall IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/17-rescued-as-floods-ravage-turkeys-black-sea-region-640022.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 22:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/top-commander-of-hamass-naval-police-killed-in-gaza-announces-israel-640031.html Jerusalem Sep 22 The Israel Defence Forces IDF announced on Monday that its air force killed the deputy commander of Hamass naval police in Gaza The IDF said that Yousef took part in the raid and murderous massacre carried out by Hamas on October 7 During the fighting in the Gaza Strip he planned ambushes against IDF forces and was involved in securing the organisations assets in the Gaza StripHis elimination constitutes a significant damage to the capabilities of Hamass maritime police which are used to collect intelligence on our forces and enforce maritime control for the organisations military wing read a statement issued by the IDFSince the beginning of Operation Gideon Chariots II the Israeli Navy has been working to thwart infrastructure and key personnel in the Maritime Police in close cooperation with the maneuvering forces and closing operational circles in real time in cooperation with the ground forces and the Air ForceThe Navys 916th Squadron fighters constitute an important operational component in the ground maneuver in the Strip The forces assist with fire from the sea and rapid circle closures from the sea air and land In a joint cooperation the Israeli Navy provided the intelligence guidance for the Israeli Air Force in a precision strike in the Central Camps the statement addedMeanwhile Chief of the Israeli General Staff Eyal Zamir on the eve of Rosh Hashanah sent a message to IDF personnel across all arenasI wish to convey to you the thanks of an entire nation that thanks to you truly thanks to you we will sit tonight at the holiday table with a sense of security and with deep appreciation for your sacrifice and dedication he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/top-commander-of-hamass-naval-police-killed-in-gaza-announces-israel-640031.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistani-politician-spotlights-ongoing-killings-enforced-disappearances-in-balochistan-640032.html Islamabad Sep 22 Pakistani politician Maulana FazlUrRehman alleged recently that the countrys authorities are involved in kidnapping and enforced disappearances across Balochistan His remarks came amid an escalating wave of enforced disappearances in the province with families continuously staging protests demanding the return of their missing kinIn a video that went viral over the weekend Rehman said If you go to Balochistan where there is a state of insecuritypeople are kidnapped and disappearedRecently noted American human rights lawyer and researcher Reed Brody called for international scrutiny over enforced disappearances unlawful killings and the targeting of women activists by Pakistani authorities in BalochistanHe made these remarks addressing the 7th Global Balochistan Conference in Geneva held on the sidelines of the 60th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council The event organised by the Baloch National Movement BNM witnessed participation from several political figures human rights activists and intellectualsThe people of Balochistan are not alone The struggle for truth and accountability can be long but it is never hopeless We must insist on international scrutiny said BrodyWe must call for independent investigations into enforced disappearances unlawful killings and the targeting of women activists The international community must not look away while basic rightslike the right to speak to protest and to mournare denied he addedThe American human rights lawyer called on the Pakistani authorities to immediately release those detained for peaceful protest restore internet access in affected regions and end the unlawful use of force in BalochistanHe urged the international community stating to support the voices of victims demand accountability and not let geopolitics blind them to serious abusesAnd to the survivors in Balochistan your courage matters History shows that truth can be delayed but it cannot be buried Brody assertedHighlighting his work over the years with survivors of some of the worlds most brutal regimes which includes Augusto Pinochet of Chile JeanClaude Duvalier of Haiti and Hissene Habre of Chad Brody said These were powerful men who believed they could rule through terror silence dissent through fear and escape accountabilityBut history caught up with themnot because of governments but because survivors refused to be silent Their courage brought justice not only for themselves but for future generations That same courage is alive today in Balochistan he stressed IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistani-politician-spotlights-ongoing-killings-enforced-disappearances-in-balochistan-640032.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/hindus-hardest-hit-amid-misuse-of-blasphemy-laws-in-pakistan-report-640034.html Islamabad Sep 22 Pakistans misplaced priorities are starkly visible in the ruthless use of blasphemy laws and religious vigilantism against Hindus and Sindhis a report said on Monday Hindus it said bear the brunt of these skewed priorities as blasphemy allegations often fabricated over personal disputes or prejudices have become tools of terror against nonMuslimsAccording to a report in the leading Sri Lankan newspaper The Daily Mirror the number of such cases have surged over the past three years in Pakistan In 2024 alone at least 475 cases were registered an alarming rise in numbers reflecting how easily the law is abused in the countryA mere accusation of blasphemy can unleash murderous mobs Vigilantes have repeatedly lynched accused individuals and entire minority communities have been attacked after such claims Expectedly the perpetrators of this violence are almost never punished emboldening further atrocities Instead the Pakistani state panders to Islamist extremists police frequently refuse to protect those targeted and sometimes even join the frenzy the report detailedIn effect blasphemy laws provide an open license to settle scores with minorities For Pakistans Hindus this means any random rumor or false allegation can lead to their home being burned or a loved one being killed with little hope of justice it addedBeyond blasphemy the report said Hindus in Pakistan are subjected to forced conversion and cultural erasure In 2025 there has been a disturbing trend of Hindu girls and even children being abducted and coerced into converting to IslamIn an outrageous act the report said in June four Hindu youths including three teenage girls were abducted in Pakistans Sindh province and forcibly convertedThe report noted that a local courts acceptance of the claim that the minors had willingly changed their religion underscored how such incidents have become frighteningly commonCiting human rights groups the report revealed abductions and forced marriages of underage Hindu girls especially in Sindh and Punjab continue unabated with Pakistani authorities turning a blind eyeThese crimes tear families apart and terrorise the community Meanwhile the physical heritage of Hindus is crumbling Decades of neglect and vandalism have left most Hindu temples in terrible condition A judicial inquiry revealed that out of 365 Hindu temples in Pakistan only 13 are actively maintained by the government while an astonishing 287 have been effectively abandoned to decay or illegal occupation Extremists know they can desecrate or even demolish Hindu shrines with impunity the report emphasisedIt further stressed that Sindhi people a predominantly Muslim ethnic minority in southeastern Pakistan endure a parallel nightmare of oppressionUnder the hardline watch of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Pakistans army chief since late 2022 these trends have only worsened Munir a selfprofessed Islamist openly subscribes to an extreme ideology that vilifies Hindus and other nonMuslims His tenure has coincided with a rising tide of hypernationalism and intolerance emboldening extremists and further imperiling minorities the report noted IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/hindus-hardest-hit-amid-misuse-of-blasphemy-laws-in-pakistan-report-640034.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/iran-e3-to-hold-talks-in-new-york-next-week-639847.html Tehran Sep 22 Iran and the three European countries of France Britain and Germany collectively known as the E3 will hold talks on Tehrans nuclear issue in New York early next week the semiofficial Tasnim news agency reported The negotiations will be held on Monday or Tuesday at the level of the foreign ministers and will be attended by European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas Tasnim quoted an informed source as sayingIrans Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on Sunday left Tehran for New York as the head of a diplomatic delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly UNGAHe is also scheduled to hold consultations with his counterparts from different countries on bilateral regional and international issues on the sidelines of the UNGA session according to a statement from the foreign ministryThe new round of talks between Iran and the E3 came as the UN Security Council on Friday failed to adopt a resolution that would extend sanctions relief for Iran under a 2015 nuclear deal formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOA between Tehran and world powers Xinhua news agency reportedLast month the E3 triggered the JCPOAs snapback mechanism which allows UN sanctions to be reimposed within 30 days if Iran is judged in breach of the accord The sanctions are expected to take effect later this monthIrans Supreme National Security Council announced on Saturday that the countrys cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency would be effectively suspended following the Security Councils voteThe JCPOA has been under strain since the United States unilaterally withdrew in 2018 prompting Iran to gradually reduce complianceSince September last year Iran has held several rounds of talks with the three European states mainly focused on Tehrans nuclear issue and the removal of sanctions IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/iran-e3-to-hold-talks-in-new-york-next-week-639847.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/palestine-overshadows-unga-session-of-world-leaders-639849.html United Nations Sept 22 Palestine is overshadowing the General Assemblys annual highlevel week when presidents prime ministers and potentates parade across the halls green marble podium setting forth their worldview While the Ukraine War and conflicts rage around the world and the UN which is at the 80th year milestone itself faces challenges of near crisis proportions the issue of Palestine takes centre stage with a summit on its statehood on Monday ahead of the highlevel meeting that starts on TuesdayBritain a permanent member of the Security Council and other Western countries announced they were recognising Palestines statehood on Sunday ahead of the summitAnother permanent Council member France which is convening the meeting with Saudi Arabia has said it will announce its recognition on Monday joining the 152 of the 193 UN members who have done so including IndiaBut Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas wont be thereThe US refused to give him a visa to visit New York for the summit and the Assembly on Friday voted to allow him to speak through a remote video linkThe US and Israel joined by three other countries voted against it while 145 countries voted for it and six abstainedThat tally shows the tide of support for Palestine which is facing an existential threat from Israels onslaught on Gaza where about 75000 people most of them civilians have been killed and Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus announcement that the country will expand Jewish settlement on the West BankThe overwhelming backing for Palestines recognition may create the image of the UN acting on a longfestering issue but it will remain only symbolic because the US will veto its membership and Netanyahu remains unmovedBelow the headlinegrabbing event are other pressing issues including the future of the UN which is facing a financial crisis with US President Donald Trump threatening to cut financial contributions and a growing disillusionment with the deeply polarised UN a recent poll showed only 58 per cent of those surveyed globally trusted itSecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres had made grand plans for the world leaders to take up his UN80 initiative with a presentation Shifting Paradigms United to Deliver which proposes streamlining the work of the UN making it more efficient and also financially viable by consolidating its functions around three core areas peace and security sustainable development and human rightsReflecting it the highlevel sessions theme this year is Better together 80 years and more for peace development and human rights but key global leaders Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Xi Jinping of China wont be thereBy tradition Brazil is the first speaker when the regular highlevel session starts and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva barely made it because of US visa restrictions that snared some in his delegation in a web of global polarisationAll eyes will be on Trump who will follow him also by traditionThe US President has upended the global scenario with his trade wars and his power play and the world will be looking closely at his speech for clues to where he may be headedBeyond the Assembly hall where squabbles and enmity but also hopes of nations and humanity and offers of cooperation will be heard real diplomacy will happen at bilateral and multilateral meetingsThese will have added urgency as nations try to figure out how to navigate the Trump eraExternal Affairs Minister S Jaishankar who will represent India at the highlevel session started off his round of diplomacy on Sunday meeting the Philippines Foreign Secretary Theresa LazaroAfter the meeting she posted on X that their meeting reaffirms our 2 countries commitment as Strategic Partners to actively develop cooperation in political defence and security the maritime domain etcArul Louis can be contacted at arulliansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/palestine-overshadows-unga-session-of-world-leaders-639849.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/eam-jaishankar-marco-rubio-to-meet-today-amid-h-1b-visa-fee-hike-concerns-639852.html New York Sep 22 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar will meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in New York on Monday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly UNGA session officials confirmed They said the discussion will serve as a continuation of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and bridge the differences that have emerged between the two countries in recent monthsThis marks the third inperson meeting between Jaishankar and Rubio this year Their last interaction took place on July 1 during the Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting in WashingtonPrior to that Jaishankar had met Rubio in January just days after the latter assumed office also on the sidelines of a Quad meeting in WashingtonMondays dialogue is the first facetoface engagement between the two leaders since relations between New Delhi and Washington came under strain over trade tariffs and Indias purchase of Russian oilThe tensions escalated after the United States imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods which came into effect on August 27The meeting also coincides with a visit by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal who is leading a delegation to hold trade negotiations with WashingtonJaishankars meeting with his American counterpart is expected to be crucial particularly in the backdrop of the Trump administrations recent decision to hike the H1B visa feeThe proclamation signed by Trump has raised the application fee for H1B visas to 100000 triggering chaos across the tech industry and creating uncertainty among employees who rely on the visa programHowever in an exclusive response to IANS the White House on Saturday said that it is a onetime fee that applies only to new visas and not renewals or current visa holdersThis is a onetime fee that applies only to the petition It only applies to new visas not renewals or current visa holders It will first apply in the upcoming lottery cycle a White House official told IANSThe White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also posted on X saying that those who already hold H1B visas and are currently outside of the country right now will not be charged 100000 to reenter H1B visa holders can leave and reenter the country she wrote IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/eam-jaishankar-marco-rubio-to-meet-today-amid-h-1b-visa-fee-hike-concerns-639852.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-urges-peace-end-of-conflict-in-international-peace-day-message-639859.html United Nations Sep 22 UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres on Sunday called on the international community to silence the guns end the suffering build bridges and create stability and prosperity in a message on the International Day of Peace observed annually on September 21 Peace cannot wait as the warring world is crying out for peace said the UN chief This years International Day of Peace urges each of us to give voice to that call he saidAround the world lives are being ripped apart childhoods extinguished and basic human dignity discarded amidst the cruelty and degradations of war Guterres saidWe are seeing an explosion of conflict International law flouted And record numbers of people fleeing their homes he saidAll they want is peace Peace is everyones business said the top UN official adding that the impacts of war ripple around the world Xinhua news agency reportedGuterres pointed out that while sustainable development supports peace nine of the 10 countries struggling most with development are suffering conflictHe urged the international community to quell the racism dehumanisation and misinformation that throw fuel on the fires of conflictInstead we must speak the language of respect open our hearts to others he emphasised Where we have peace we have hope families unite communities rebuild children learn and play said the UN chiefThe International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the UN General Assembly Two decades later in 2001 the General Assembly unanimously voted to designate the Day as a period of nonviolence and ceasefireThe theme for this year is Act Now for a Peaceful World IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/un-chief-urges-peace-end-of-conflict-in-international-peace-day-message-639859.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/two-south-china-cities-to-suspend-school-production-in-response-to-approaching-typhoon-639894.html Guangzhou Sep 22 Guangdong Province in south China on Monday raised its wind emergency response to Level II with two cities announcing a series of suspension measures as Typhoon Ragasa approaches The Level II response the secondhighest in Chinas fourtier warning system was activated at 10 am on MondaySchools will suspend classes starting Tuesday in the cities of Zhuhai and Jiangmen while work production public transport and business operations will also be suspended later on Tuesday according to the local flood drought and wind control headquartersAll passenger ferry services to the Chuanshan Islands in Jiangmen will be suspended starting Tuesday as the wind speed may reach about 20 metres per second in the nearby sea area Xinhua news agency reportedAs of 10 am Monday the maritime safety administration of the province had relocated over 10000 coastal vessels across the province to safe waters for shelterTyphoon Ragasa the 18th typhoon of 2025 is forecast to likely make landfall along the central or western coastal areas of Guangdong on Wednesday as a strong or super strong typhoon and severely affect the province from Tuesday to Thursday the provincial meteorological observatory saidEarlier on September 21 Typhoon Ragasa had intensified into a super typhoon packing maximum sustained winds of 185 km per hour and gusts of up to 230 km per hour the Philippine weather bureau had saidIn its bulletin the bureau had said Ragasa was located 535 km east of Tuguegarao City in northern Luzon moving westnorthwest at 15 km per hour It may pass close or make landfall over Batanes or the Babuyan IslandsThe bureau had warned that Ragasa could bring heavy rains and strong winds potentially triggering the highest tropical cyclone wind signalIt further warned There is a high risk of lifethreatening storm surge with peak heights exceeding 3 metres within the next 48 hours over lowlying or exposed coastal villages of the provinces of Batanes Cagayan Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/two-south-china-cities-to-suspend-school-production-in-response-to-approaching-typhoon-639894.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 13:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/japans-ldp-leadership-race-kicks-off-with-5-candidates-639900.html Tokyo Sep 22 Japans ruling Liberal Democratic Party LDP officially launched its leadership election campaign on Monday with five candidates filing their candidacies The contenders are Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi former Economic Security Ministers Takayuki Kobayashi and Sanae Takaichi Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi and former LDP SecretaryGeneral Toshimitsu MotegiAll five also ran in last years election which saw a record nine candidates reports Xinhua news agencyThe contest will focus on issues such as cooperation with opposition parties economic measures to tackle rising prices and rebuilding the party after successive election defeats and political funding scandalsCandidacy registration began at 10 am local time at the LDP headquarters in Tokyo where each candidates representative submitted the required list of 20 recommending lawmakersThe candidates will deliver their speeches on Monday afternoon at party headquarters marking the official start of fullscale debateThis year over 910000 party members will take part in voting the national broadcaster NHK reportedA total of 590 ballots will be cast split evenly between Diet member votes 295 and party member votes 295 Ballots from party members will be finalised the day before lawmakers vote on October 4 after which both sets will be counted together to decide the new party leaderJapanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced earlier this month that he will step down as the LDP head triggering an early leadership contest within the partyOnce a new LDP president is chosen the parliament will hold a prime ministerial designation voteEven though the ruling bloc has failed to secure a majority in both chambers of the parliament the new LDP leader is highly likely to become the countrys next prime minister since the LDP remains the largest party analysts said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/japans-ldp-leadership-race-kicks-off-with-5-candidates-639900.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-h-1b-visa-fee-unlikely-to-dent-it-companies-margins-significantly-report-639903.html New Delhi Sep 22 The US governments order which restricts entry for H1B visa petitioners unless they pay a onetime fee of 100000 is unlikely to significantly impact large and midcap IT services firms in India a report said on Monday The restrictions can be addressed through increased local hiring subcontracting or offshoring a report from fund management firm Equirus saidThe restriction unless extended will remain effective for 12 months from September 21 2025 unless renewed and applies solely to new visa applicantsEquirus estimated that the fee would lower the operating profit margins of largecap IT companies by only 7 to 14 basis points if it only applies to new H1Bs and by 26 to 49 basis points if it includes new and existing visa holders outside the USMidcap firms would experience impacts ranging from 21 to 39 basis points for new applicants and 60 to 109 basis points if applied to new and existing visa holders outside the USAnalysts said that the Indian IT vendors have reduced their onsite H1B workforce over the past six to eight years Such visas form around 2535 per cent for most of the large caps and 3060 per cent for most of the others in our view the report saidRestrictionrelated payment of 01 million is in many cases higher than the salary of the H1B visa holders paid by many Indian IT vendorsHence we believe common sense will prevail in replacing those affected applicants by doing incremental hiring of locals or green card holders or subcontractors and doing offshoring the report saidHowever the fund management firm maintained that sales growth may decelerate slightly in the latter half of fiscal 2026 as the required pivoting needs proper planning or client approvalsApproximately 71 per cent of H1B visa holders are from India primarily working for technology companies including Infosys Wipro Cognisant and Tata Consultancy Services IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-h-1b-visa-fee-unlikely-to-dent-it-companies-margins-significantly-report-639903.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/cpec-landed-pakistan-in-95-billion-debt-trap-639909.html New Delhi Sep 22 The ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor CPEC which Islamabad had envisaged as an economic gamechanger is actually turning out to be a costly venture as it has failed to achieve its targets and instead landed Pakistan in a 95 billion debt trap The initiative promised to give muchneeded economic impetus to Pakistan but quickly entered uncharted waters and became mired in countless controversiesThus CPEC has very few outcomes to showcase This delay has cost Pakistan dearly The overdue energy and infrastructure projects cost overruns and accusations of opaque contracts have cost the initiative its viability according to an article in The Diplomat news magazineAccording to economist Ali Hasanain an Associate Professor at Lahore University of Management Sciences CPECs original sin was that a large number of its projects relied on foreign currencies which ultimately clashed with Pakistans domesticoriented exchange rate and industrial policies narrowing the fiscal space for IslamabadCurrently Pakistan owes more than 75 billion for setting up power plants and additional nearly 2 billion to Chinese energy producers in circular debt or unpaid bills the article statesDue to the delay in CPEC 20 Pakistan has been unable to establish the industrial base needed to transform into an exportdriven economy and pay off its debts Consequently Pakistan had to seek more loans to pay past loans resulting in a prolonged debt crisisThe article points out that one of the main challenges to CPEC has been the political infighting in Pakistan In 2015 when Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz PMLN was in power it considered itself the chief architect of the initiative However the Opposition Pakistan TehreekeInsaf PTI accused the PMLN of corruption and inflating the cost of projectsIn 2018 the tables turned and the PTI came into the government It attempted to reduce Pakistans financial risk by asking the Chinese side to review all the contracts as the new government feared they were badly negotiated either overly expensive or on terms excessively favouring China However Beijing was prepared to review only those projects that had not been startedIn 2019 the PTI government engaged the International Monetary Fund IMF for a financial bailout to solve the Balance of Payment BOP crisis For this bailout Pakistan had to share details of CPEC with the IMF Pakistan also had to agree with IMF conditions like fiscal consolidation that in practice required slowing down the CPEC which ultimately angered the Chinese the article statesEthnic and provincial tension also had a fair share in slowing down CPEC These ethnic tensions also translated into security challenges with the Balochistan Liberation Army BLA in Balochistan and the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa mounting armed attacks against these projectsFrom 2021 until late 2024 for instance there were 14 attacks on the CPEC killing 20 Chinese citizens and injuring 34Most of these attacks were claimed by the BLA Similarly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa the TTP is also targeting Chinese interests Since the US withdrawal from Afghanistan the TTP has rapidly increased the number of attacks in Pakistan the article points out IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/cpec-landed-pakistan-in-95-billion-debt-trap-639909.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/piyush-goyal-in-washington-for-india-us-trade-talks-639941.html Washington Sep 22 Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal was in Washington on Monday to move ahead with the trade talks with a view to achieving an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial IndiaUS Bilateral Trade Agreement Goyals trip to the US capital follows the visit of the US team of officials to Delhi on September 16 The Commerce Ministry said that during the visit of the team of officials from the office of the United States Trade Representative to India positive discussions were held on various aspects of the trade deal and it was decided to intensify efforts in this regardOn September 16 a US delegation led by Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch met Indian trade officials headed by Chief Negotiator Rajesh Agrawal in New Delhi amid the thaw in relations following President Donald Trumps conciliatory postureLynchs visit came against the backdrop of heightened expectations of a trade deal following positive messages by President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi after days of a bitter stalemateTrump said on a Truth Social post on September 9 that talks were continuing and I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our Great CountriesCalling PM Modi a great friend he said he would be talking to himPM Modi responded to Trumps post saying I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the IndiaUS partnership He added that he was looking forward to talking with TrumpHowever it is not clear as yet to what extent the US announcement of a 100000 fee on H1B visas which will adversely impact Indian IT engineers working in the US will influence the trade talks The 25 per cent penal tariff imposed on India over Russian oil imports is another issue that has been posing problemsUS Ambassador to Indianominee Sergio Gor told a Senate panel considering his nomination last week that Indias Commerce Minister was expected in Washington and would meet US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/piyush-goyal-in-washington-for-india-us-trade-talks-639941.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/internet-restored-in-afghanistans-kandahar-639943.html Kabul Sep 22 After nearly one week of internet deactivation authorities have restored internet for some government departments in Afghanistans southern Kandahar province provincial director for communication Mullah Noorullah Nuri said Monday Pointtopoint internet has been restored for some government offices including banks customs and the Directorate for National ID Cards to enable them to run their daily work smoothly the official saidLast Wednesday local media reported that fibre optic services had been suspended in several provinces including the northern Balkh Baghlan Takhar Kunduz and the southern Kandahar on the grounds of checking immoral activitiesMeanwhile in another development the construction of 18 school buildings has been completed and put into use in eastern Afghanistans Paktia province providing enhanced educational facilities for local communities the countrys Ministry of Economy announced MondayFunded by the Asia Community Development Organisation at a cost of nearly 196 million afghani over 29 million US dollars the projects have been implemented in Gardez the provincial capital and surrounding districts according to the ministryThe Ministry of Education has also ramped up access initiatives establishing 472 communitybased classes in neighbouring Logar province on Saturday to educate nearly 17000 previously deprived children at the primary level reports Xinhua news agencyAdditionally the Afghan government also continues to encourage domestic and foreign investments to combat poverty create job opportunities and bolster economic independenceLast week Abdul Nasir Reshtia the chairman of the ironsmelting union announced that a total of 45 major ironsmelting plants are operational in Afghanistan with over 500 million US dollars invested in the sector achieving full selfsufficiencyHe highlighted the industrys growth noting that nearly 20000 Afghans are directly employed with another 50000 benefiting indirectly through related jobsOver the past year the country exported 210000 tons of iron to Turkmenistan and Pakistan underscoring its emerging role in regional trade Reshtia had notedAccording to the official report around 6000 industrial factories are active nationwide driving Afghanistan to full selfsufficiency in 130 sectors and partial selfsufficiency in another 100 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/internet-restored-in-afghanistans-kandahar-639943.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-engineers-develop-reusable-building-material-with-quarter-carbon-footprint-639945.html Sydney Sep 22 Engineers in Australia have developed a new reusable and recyclable building material made from cardboard soil and water that has approximately onequarter of the carbon footprint of concrete This innovative material called cardboardconfined rammed earth could significantly cut the carbon footprint of construction while reducing waste going to landfill according to a statement released Monday by Australias Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology RMITThe material which eliminates the need for cement produces about one quarter of the emissions of concrete while costing less than a third as much the statement saidBy simply using cardboard soil and water we can make walls robust enough to support lowrise buildings said RMIT researcher Ma Jiaming lead author of the study published in the British journal StructuresIn a separate study Ma combined carbon fibre with rammed earth achieving strength comparable to highperformance concreteMa said this innovation could revolutionise building design and construction by using locally sourced recyclable materials and reflects the global revival of earthbased construction driven by netzero goals and a focus on sustainability reports Xinhua news agencyEspecially suited to hot climates rammed earth buildings naturally regulate indoor temperatures and humidity he saidThe method involves compacting a soilandwater mixture inside cardboard formwork that can be made onsite reducing the need to transport heavy construction materials the researchers saidAustralia sends more than 22 million tonnes of cardboard and paper to landfill each year while cement and concrete production account for about 8 per cent of annual global emissionsThe RMIT team said the innovation could benefit remote construction in regions with abundant red soils and is seeking partnerships with industry IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-engineers-develop-reusable-building-material-with-quarter-carbon-footprint-639945.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/sri-lankan-police-seize-truck-carrying-200-kilos-of-methamphetamine-heroin-639948.html Colombo Sep 22 Sri Lankan police on Monday seized a truck transporting about 200 kilos of crystal methamphetamine ICE and heroin said a police spokesman Police spokesman FU Wootler told the media that the vehicle was taken into custody in Tangalle in Sri Lankas Southern province with the drugs being hidden among a load of watermelonsIn recent weeks large quantities of drugs and raw materials used to make drugs have been detected in the province reports Xinhua news agencyIn a separate incident in Tangalle on Monday police recovered more than 10 kilos of a substance suspected to be crystal methamphetamine from a truck parked near a houseEarlier this month a stockpile of nearly 50000 kg of raw materials suspected to be used in the production of crystal methamphetamine was recovered in Middeniya in southern Sri LankaThis comes just days after Sri Lankan police announced that they have seized nearly a metric tonne of heroin and 13 tonnes of cannabis during raids carried out so far in 2025Police Media spokesperson FU Wootler addressing a press conference in Colombo said 955 kg of heroin 1422 kg of crystal methamphetamine 471 kg of hashish 29 kg of cocaine and 13773 kg of cannabis had been confiscated Police have also seized 35 million narcotic pills he saidDuring these operations 1721 firearms were also seized he saidWootler added that 328 suspects have been arrested in connection with shooting incidents These include 38 gunmen 27 getaway riders and 263 accused of aiding and abetting these crimesHe added that since January 12 police have conducted daily special operations and searched a total of 5101516 individuals arresting 104602 suspects according to the police spokesperson IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/sri-lankan-police-seize-truck-carrying-200-kilos-of-methamphetamine-heroin-639948.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/one-dead-many-arrested-in-violent-rallies-in-philippines-639986.html Manila Sep 22 A total of 216 individuals were arrested during anticorruption protests on Sunday Philippine Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla said Monday Of those detained 127 were adults and 89 were minors said Remulla at a press briefing adding that the suspects have been detained at the Manila Police DistrictThe Department of Health said that at least one person died during the clashOn Sunday tens of thousands of Filipinos took to the streets in Manila and other parts of the country to voice their outrage over widespread corruption Xinhua news agency reportedIn July Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos first spoke about the corruption scandal in flood control projects during his State of the Nation AddressLast week the Philippine House of Representatives elected Deputy Speaker Faustino Dy as its new speaker following the resignation of Martin Romualdez over a corruption scandal involving infrastructure projects The House leadership change came just days after the Senate replaced Francis Escudero with Vicente Sotto as Senate presidentMeanwhile two suspected rebels were killed in a clash with government troops in Capiz province in the central Philippines the Philippine military said SundayThe military said soldiers engaged seven alleged members of the New Peoples Army NPA during a combat operation in Tapaz town at around 745 am local time on Saturday Two insurgents were killed while no government soldiers were reported hurtGovernment troops recovered three rifles and several explosives and ammunition at the scene the military addedNPA rebels have been fighting government troops since 1969 Military data showed that the NPAs personnel strength has declined since its peak of around 25000 armed members in the 1980sDespite its dwindling fighters the NPA continues to launch smallscale attacks in the countryside IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/one-dead-many-arrested-in-violent-rallies-in-philippines-639986.html Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/afghan-officials-rebuke-trumps-bagram-demands-vow-defence-of-sovereignty-639745.html Kabul Sep 21 Afghan officials have sharply rejected US threats to reclaim Bagram Air Base emphasising that any attempt to reestablish a foreign military presence would be met with unyielding resistance Mullah Tajmir Jawad first deputy of the General Directorate of Intelligence responded to calls for the US to retake the strategic airfield by saying the Afghan government would preserve the current systemEchoing this resolve Afghan Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid told the media Our answer is if you dont leave and want bases we are ready to fight you for another 20 yearsZakir Jalaly political director of the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed the notion of a US return stating that Afghans have never accepted foreign troops on their territory and that any dialogue with Washington must exclude military reoccupation reports Xinhua news agencyThis comes as Trump issued a stern warning to Afghanistan on Saturday US time demanding the return of the Bagram air base to the United StatesPosting on his social media platform Truth Social Trump wrote If Afghanistan doesnt give Bagram Airbase back to those that built it the United States of America bad things are going to happenTrump earlier reiterated that Washington has been pushing to regain control of the base which was a key operational hub for American forces following the September 11 2001 attacksAddressing reporters on Friday he confirmed that discussions with Afghanistan on the matter were underwayThe Bagram air base once the largest US military installation in Afghanistan was taken over by the Taliban after the withdrawal of American forces in 2021Trump who has been criticising his predecessor Joe Biden over giving up Bagram airbase during the US withdrawal in August 2021 told reporters in London on Thursday that We want to retake itThe Bagram airbase 50 km north of Kabul had served as the main military base of US troops in Afghanistan during the 20year military presence of USled military coalition forces which ended in August 2021 and paved the way for the collapse of the westernbacked forces and takeover of power by the current Afghan regime IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/afghan-officials-rebuke-trumps-bagram-demands-vow-defence-of-sovereignty-639745.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/cambodia-begins-to-celebrate-traditional-pchum-ben-festival-639750.html Phnom Penh Sep 21 Cambodia on Sunday began to celebrate the threeday traditional Pchum Ben festival or Ancestors Day In a special video message Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Pchum Ben festival is a Cambodian tradition that has been observed annually since ancient times Xinhua news agency reportedIt is an occasion that the Cambodian people are engaged in almsgiving and merit making in order to dedicate to their relatives and loved ones who had passed away he said It is also a joyful occasion for family reunionsPchum Ben festival is the secondbiggest celebration for Cambodian people after the Lunar New YearDuring the celebrations the Cambodian Buddhists go to pagodas and make offerings to monks in order to dedicate to their deceased relatives and loved onesThey believe that everything they offer to the monks will reach their dead ancestors or relatives and in return the dead will bless them with good luckBuddhists account for approximately 95 per cent of the kingdoms population of 17 million according to the Ministry of Cults and ReligionsDuring the holiday hundreds of thousands of migrant workers leave the capital Phnom Penh for their hometowns in various provinces across the Southeast Asian countryHun Manet said on the occasion that the Phnom Penh City Bus Authority has arranged 597 buses to transport people to and from their hometowns for free of charge from September 20 to September 25The free bus services aim to facilitate peoples travel and help reduce travel costs for them he saidCambodia had also provided free bus service to transport people to their hometowns for the Pchum Ben festival or the Ancestors Day in 2024 which was celebrated from October 1 to 3At the time Phnom Penh Municipal Governor Khuong Sreng had said that on the advice of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet a total of 653 buses had been arranged to give free rides to anyone traveling from the capital Phnom Penh to their hometowns and vice versa IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/cambodia-begins-to-celebrate-traditional-pchum-ben-festival-639750.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 13:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/seven-dead-after-boat-capsizes-on-ugandas-lake-kyoga-639753.html Kampala Sep 21 Seven people drowned and 29 others survived after a boat carrying mourners capsized on Lake Kyoga in northern Ugandas Amolatar District police said The wooden vessel was traveling from Muchora Abino A village to escort a catechist to a burial ceremony when it overturned near Kiryanga Village in Acii SubCounty at about 1100 am local time on Friday police said in a statement on Saturday Xinhua news agency reportedA total of 36 people were on board and 29 survived the accident The incident happened approximately 400 meters from the Kiryanga landing site when the engine boat hit a stationary tree stump causing it to capsize the statement saidPolice said the bodies of the deceased were taken to Amolatar Health Centre IV mortuary for postmortem examinationsBoat accidents are common on Ugandas lakes often blamed on overloading and poor weather conditionsA similar incident occured in Nigeria last month which claimed the lives of 60 peopleAt least 60 people were killed and dozens rescued after a boat capsized in Nigerias northcentral Niger State on September 3Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris on behalf of the Nigerian government expressed sadness with a heavy heart over the tragedy in a statement released on social media platform X the first by any top government official since the accident on Tuesday when a wooden passenger boat carrying people on a condolence visit overturned in the Gausawa community of Borgu Local Government AreaIdris noted that the incident occurred barely four months after devastating floods wreaked havoc in the state The federal government through the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA will provide the necessary support to the victims families and survivors working closely with the Niger State government to ensure prompt relief and assistanceThe boat was reportedly overloaded and collided with a tree stump according to preliminary investigations by local authorities IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/seven-dead-after-boat-capsizes-on-ugandas-lake-kyoga-639753.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 14:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/families-forced-to-disown-militant-kin-in-balochistan-rights-body-calls-it-state-persecution-639757.html Quetta Sep 21 A human rights body has strongly condemned the recent directive from the Balochistan government that compelled families to submit sworn affidavits disowning relatives accused of militancy under threat of criminal prosecution confiscation of property and withdrawal of state benefits This order constitutes collective punishment in direct contravention of international human rights and humanitarian law By seeking to criminalise entire families for the alleged actions of individuals the state is not only violating the principles of individual responsibility and due process but is also engaging in a policy that bears the hallmarks of a crime against humanity read a statement issued by the Human Rights Council of Balochistan HRCBAccording to the HRCB the directive is particularly abhorrent in how it treats the families of victims of enforced disappearanceThe rights body asserted that forcing families to report to Pakistans Army and Frontier Corps the very institutions credibly accused of carrying out enforced disappearances across Balochistan constitutes an act of deliberate humiliation coercion and psychological tortureSuch measures the HRCB said further entrench impunity for grave violations while shifting the burden of responsibility from the Pakistani authorities to the victims themselvesThe rights body urged the international community the United Nations human rights mechanisms and legal experts to unequivocally denounce this draconian and unlawful policyIt is imperative that this measure be recognised for what it is a blatant violation of Pakistans obligations under international law including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ICCPR and the Convention Against Torture CAT the HRCB statedThe rights body also emphasised that rather than persecuting families and institutionalising collective punishment the Pakistani Government must be held accountable for ending enforced disappearances ensuring due process and upholding the rule of law in BalochistanAnything less perpetuates a cycle of repression that may amount to statesanctioned persecution of an entire population the HRCB addedPeople from Balochistan are currently fighting for their independence from PakistanVarious human rights organisations of Balochistan have time and again highlighted the repression by Pakistani forces in the province which includes violent raids on the homes of Baloch leaders and civilians unlawful arrests enforced disappearances the kill and dump policy detention under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance and the filing of fabricated police cases IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/families-forced-to-disown-militant-kin-in-balochistan-rights-body-calls-it-state-persecution-639757.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 14:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/kabul-residents-complain-of-challenges-faced-due-to-reduced-internet-speed-639773.html Kabul Sep 21 Several people in Kabul have complained about reduced internet speed and the challenges caused by this after fibre optic services stopped working in 10 provinces of Afghanistan Kabul residents said that the reduction in internet speed affected their work Wajid an employee at a pharmaceutical company in the capital city said 90 per cent of his work relies on the internet However the drop in internet service speed has caused difficulties for him Afghanistanbased Tolo News reportedWe need fast internet because sometimes when we send a location it doesnt go through or get delivered This creates a lot of problems for us in the office he saidSeveral other residents in Kabul said that disruptions in internet service have negatively affected their online education program personal and worklinked communicationShams questioned how they can progress in marketing if internet access is better He said If we have highspeed internet we can progress in marketing and in areas where internet access is better and we can help our country move forwardAnother resident Saleem Rahini said Since our lessons were progressing through the internet slides WhatsApp and YouTube now with the internet weakening our access to these resources has decreased significantlyResidents of Kabul raised complaints after fibre optic services were suspended in 10 provinces of Afghanistan Balkh Kandahar Herat Helmand Nangarhar Laghman Badakhshan Takhar Kunduz and Baghlan over the past week Tolo News reportedFibre optic internet was suspended in over 10 provinces of Afghanistan after the Talibans order Abdul Hadi Qane a social activist in Herat stated We expect that no restrictions will be imposed on internet access If any programs are to be implemented in this regard they should be designed in a way that minimises harm to the publicResidents of Balkh province said that internet disruption has negatively affected their business educational and social activities One resident of Balkh said Cutting off home internet can have serious negative impacts on all aspects of life A major portion of public services such as the issuance of ID cards passports and the banking system depends on the internet IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/kabul-residents-complain-of-challenges-faced-due-to-reduced-internet-speed-639773.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 16:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-bnp-accuses-jamaat-of-trying-to-create-state-within-state-639805.html Dhaka Sep 21 The Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP on Sunday accused radical Islamist party JamaateIslami of attempting to establish state within the state through its actions in the countrys political landscape and universities media reported Has the Dhaka University Central Students Union Vice President been given magistracy power to decide which shop on the campus is legal or illegal He fined a shop Tk Bangladeshi taka 3000 and then deposited the money into Baitul Mal the partys fund What is the legal basis for this Dhaka Tribune quoted the BNP senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi as saying during a discussion at the Jatiya Press ClubThe BNP leader said that in any university it is the administrations duty to monitor who operates shops or markets within the campus and student leaders can raise an alarm if the peaceful and orderly environment of the campus is disruptedInstead you are imposing fines and that money is going into Jamaats party fund This is a very serious matter We have always seen that their activities are creating a state within the state and we are now observing such an environment the BNP leader addedRizvi also criticised Jamaats student wing Islami Chhatra Shibir for supplying iron beds to university halls questioning whether such responsibility should lie with a political party or the student unionIf students have demands they should bargain or negotiate with the vicechancellor If there is a shortage of accommodation beds or other facilities it is the administrations duty to address it the BNP leader saidThis is very strange It undermines the legal foundation of the state and goes against the proper functioning of the university Are you running an orphanage that you provide iron beds Will you also provide dining tables for food These kinds of actions are a very bad sign in our view he addedHe lamented that media outlets fail to highlight the misdeeds of Jamaat leaders and activists while allegations against the BNP are widely reportedRizvi also claimed that the media and social media often accuse BNP of extortion sand lifting or stone theft while it never reports Jamaat leaders involvement in offences including cases of sexual harassment or abuse of womenThe parties that earlier collaborated with countrys interim chief advisor Muhammad Yunus to overthrow the democratically elected government of the Awami League led by former PM Sheikh Hasina are now at loggerheads IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-bnp-accuses-jamaat-of-trying-to-create-state-within-state-639805.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 20:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-12-people-die-of-dengue-raises-death-toll-in-2025-to-179-639818.html Dhaka Sep 21 As many as 12 people have died due to dengue in Bangladesh on Sunday taking the total number of fatalities in the country since January 2025 to 179 media reported citing Directorate General of Health Services DGHS Health officials said that 740 new patients were admitted to hospitals during the same period raising the number of confirmed cases in 2025 to 48831 As many as 2021 patients are being treated in hospitals across Bangladesh United News of Bangladesh reportedThe fatalities due to dengue were reported in various regions of Bangladesh five in Barishal division three in Dhaka North City two in Dhaka South City Corporation and one each in Chattogram and Mymensingh divisionsFresh cases of dengue were reported in Barishal 165 Dhaka outside city 147 Dhaka North 122 Dhaka South 115 Chattogram 77 Khulna 52 Rajshahi 28 Mymensingh 22 Sylhet 9 and Rangpur 3Public health experts warned that crisis is deteriorating faster than 2024 As many as 575 people were killed in Bangladesh in 2024 They demanded quick action on mosquito control and better preparedness in hospitals as cases continue to increaseEarlier on September 16 the DGHS announced new instructions for public hospitals to ensure treatment of dengue patients According to the guidelines all hospitals in Bangladesh must establish dedicated wards for dengue treatment and set up a specialised medical team The DGHS believes that this decision will help improve patient care lower risks and better the quality of hospital services local media reportedDGHS Director Hospitals and Clinics Abu Hossain Md Mainul Ahsan issued the directive on Tuesday The DGHS said hospitals must ensure special arrangements for dengue patients undergoing treatmentThe hospitals have been asked to ensure facilities for NS1 tests emergency care and sufficient medicines for patients the Dhaka Tribune reportedPatients undergoing treatment for dengue in hospitals should be kept in a designated ward or room and ICU support must be prioritised when required Furthermore doctors and nurses have been given special responsibilitiesThe directive called for a creation of a board comprising medicine pediatrics and other specialist physicians for the treatment of dengue and chikungunya patients Under the supervision of this board trained doctors medical officers and residents will provide care to dengue and chikungunya patientsAccording to the directive the same board and doctors must provide treatment to suspected patients who come to outpatient departments in hospitals It also ordered hospital directors to send letters to city corporations or municipalities to conduct mosquito eradication and cleanliness drives around hospital premises In addition a dengue coordination meeting must be held at hospitals chaired by the director superintendent and civil surgeon on every Saturday IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-12-people-die-of-dengue-raises-death-toll-in-2025-to-179-639818.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 20:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/former-south-korean-president-yoon-files-for-bail-amid-insurrection-trial-639826.html Seoul Sep 21 South Koreas impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has requested to be released on bail citing the need to prepare his defence and health concerns according to legal sources on Sunday The application was filed on Friday with the Seoul Central District Court which is handling charges against him for obstruction of duties and abuse of authority A date for the bail hearing has not yet been set Yonhap News Agency reportedYoon has been in custody since July and is on trial for allegedly leading an insurrection and abusing his power in connection with a shortlived martial law declaration in DecemberOn September 20 a special counsel team notified Yoon to appear for questioning next week over allegations linked to his failed martial law bidSpecial counsel Cho Eunsuks team said it issued the summons to Yoon to appear for questioning at the Seoul High Prosecutors Office on WednesdayThe team is expected to question Yoon on charges of whether he incited foreign aggression by ordering a drone dispatch to Pyongyang in October ahead of his shortlived declaration of martial law in DecemberIt would be the first time investigators attempt to question him over the allegation of inciting foreign aggressionThe team suspects Yoon of giving direct orders to the Drone Operations Command to dispatch drones to Pyongyang in an attempt to provoke North Korean military responses and allegedly create a pretext for the imposition of martial lawFormer drone command chief Major General Kim Yongdae Joint Chiefs of Staff JCS former Chairman Adm Kim Myungsoo and JCS operations chief Lt Gen Lee Seungoh have already been questioned over the allegationsThe commanders have denied any link between the drone dispatch and Yoons martial law arguing the operations were part of response measures to the Norths balloon campaigns against the SouthHowever it remains unclear whether Yoon would appear as he has refused to cooperate with the special counsels probe and attend his insurrection trial since JulyThe team also plans to question former Defence Minister Kim Yonghyun who is currently in custody at the Seoul Eastern Detention Centre on charges of insurrection officials said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/former-south-korean-president-yoon-files-for-bail-amid-insurrection-trial-639826.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 21:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/as-us-restricts-h-1b-trump-gold-card-visa-goes-on-sale-for-1-million-639714.html Washington September 21 As the Trump administration restricts the H1B visas it has released the details of an investmentbased programme called the Trump Gold Card President Trump signed an executive order on Friday that would allow people to obtain a visa for 1 million and corporations for 2 millionCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick posted the details of the programme on X on Saturday asserting this pathway does not expand immigrationFor 1M individuals can obtain the Trump Gold Card creating jobs and building businesses here in America For 2M corporations can purchase a Corporate Trump Gold Card for one employee The company not the individual owns the card with the option to transfer to another employee for a fee he wroteLutnick added that all applicants under the Gold Card Programme will undergo rigorous DHS vetting and will pay a 15000 processing feeThe Commerce Secretary emphasised that it will replace broken visa categories like the diversity lottery which brings down America instead of attracting the highearning individuals these programs were originally designed to attractAfter signing the Executive Order on Friday Trump said the Gold Card is like a signing bonus for baseball or football playersOne of the biggest problems we have is that people they go to the best schools and they do great and they get great marks and then theyre thrown out of the country Youre not allowed to stay this way So like a signing bonus in baseball or football a corporation will be able to get them to stay in the country the US President addedLutnick claimed that through the programme the US would only take extraordinary people at the very topInstead of people trying to take the jobs from Americans they are going to create businesses and create jobs for Americans And this programme will raise more than 100 billion for the treasury of the United States of America he noted IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/as-us-restricts-h-1b-trump-gold-card-visa-goes-on-sale-for-1-million-639714.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 06:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-embassy-in-us-issues-emergency-helpline-amid-h-1b-visa-fee-639715.html Washington Sep 21 In a move that has set off alarm bells among Indian professionals United States President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing an annual fee of 100000 on H1B visa applications Following the announcement the Indian Embassy in Washington on Saturday released an emergency assistance number for Indian nationals in need of immediate supportIndian nationals seeking emergency assistance may call cell number 12025509931 and WhatsApp This number should be used only by Indian nationals seeking immediate emergency assistance and not for routine consular queries the Embassy stated in a post on XThe measure has raised serious concerns regarding its implications on Indian tech professionals and the flow of remittances with nearly 71 per cent of all H1B visas being granted to Indian citizensSeeking to calm nerves a senior official from the US administration clarified that the steep fee would apply only to fresh H1B visa petitions and not to existing holders or those seeking renewalsIn an exclusive response to IANS the White House on Saturday said that it is a onetime fee that applies only to new visas and not renewals or current visa holdersThis is a onetime fee that applies only to the petition It only applies to new visas not renewals or current visa holders It will first apply in the upcoming lottery cycle a White House official told IANSMeanwhile the Indian government has instructed all its Missions and Posts to provide every possible assistance to Indian nationals who are scheduled to return to the United States in the next 24 hoursThe Ministry of External Affairs also took note of the development stating that it is carefully examining the farreaching changes introduced to the H1B visa programme particularly the newly imposed annual feeThe ministry expressed concern that the move could extend beyond financial ramifications and trigger humanitarian challenges for familiesThe Government has seen reports related to the proposed restrictions on the US H1B visa program The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned including by Indian industry which has already put out an initial analysis clarifying some perceptions related to the H1B program MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal saidThe spokesperson further cautioned that the step announced by Trump is likely to resonate beyond business circlesThe full implications are being studied by all concerned including the Indian industry and the measure is likely to have humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-embassy-in-us-issues-emergency-helpline-amid-h-1b-visa-fee-639715.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 07:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/saudi-arabia-grants-fresh-economic-support-to-yemen-639718.html Aden Yemen Sep 21 Yemens Presidential Leadership Council PLC has welcomed new Saudi economic support worth 138 billion Saudi riyals about 368 million US dollars to help stabilise the countrys fragile economy and advance local reforms PLC chief Rashad AlAlimi said in a statement posted on social media platform X on Saturday local time that the grant reflects Riyadhs strong commitment to the Yemeni people and their aspirations for stability peace and development noting that part of the funds will cover operating costs of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Hospital in AdenYemens Prime Minister Salem bin Buraik also hailed the grant saying it would reinforce the economy and safeguard the progress achieved under government reformsMeanwhile Saudi Arabias foreign ministry said the grant provided through the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen SPDRY will support the Yemeni government budget petroleum subsidies and key public services reports Xinhua news agencyThe new grant comes amid growing frustration in Aden and other southern cities controlled by the Yemeni government where tens of thousands of public employees have gone more than three months without salariesSince the outbreak of civil war in 2014 Yemens economy has collapsed with real GDP per capita plunging by more than half and poverty rates soaring The conflict has split the country between rival administrations devalued the currency and left millions reliant on humanitarian aidAdditionally according to a recent report in Xinhua news agency in Yemens southern port city of Aden and other neighbouring cities frustration is mounting as tens of thousands of employees have been experiencing monthslong salary delaysThe postponement of payments is forcing numerous families of civil servants teachers and healthcare workers to the edge of survival In recent weeks protests over financial uncertainty have spread to Taiz and other governmentcontrolled cities Demonstrators gathered outside government buildings chanting slogans against corruption and demanding immediate payment of wagesSeveral local activists and members of labour unions have called for strikes warning that essential services may grind to a haltThe Yemeni government based in Aden recognises the ongoing crisis and attributes it primarily to a severe liquidity shortage Local officials have reported that revenue collections have declined citing weak performance and the failure of certain agencies to transfer funds to the central bank IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/saudi-arabia-grants-fresh-economic-support-to-yemen-639718.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 07:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/north-korea-keeps-mum-on-outcome-of-key-parliamentary-session-639720.html Seoul Sep 21 North Korea has not as of Sunday disclosed the results of a plenary session of its parliament that was set to take place last week raising views that the event could extend over a longer period than planned The standing committee of the Norths Supreme Peoples Assembly SPA decided to convene the session on September 20 the staterun Korean Central News Agency KCNA reported last monthBut neither the KCNA nor the Rodong Sinmun the Norths main newspaper for its domestic readers had published reports on the meeting as of 7 am on SundayThe delay in the results raises speculations that the SPA session could take place for two days or longer or has been rescheduled to another date reports Yonhap news agency quoting KCNAIn last months report the KCNA said the session will address a grain management act the review and adoption of an intellectual property rights act and the implementation of a city management act without providing further details on the agendaThe meeting had also garnered attention for its possible review of a constitutional revision reflecting the countrys new hostile policy toward South KoreaDuring a parliamentary session in January last year North Korean leader Kim Jongun ordered a constitutional revision to describe South Korea as the primary hostile state and unchanging primary foe though no official report of the revision has been released so farKim Yojong the influential sister of Kim also referred to a constitutional revision earlier this year saying that South Korea should be permanently described as the most hostile threat in national law IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/north-korea-keeps-mum-on-outcome-of-key-parliamentary-session-639720.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-warns-afghanistan-over-bagram-airbase-threatens-consequences-639721.html Washington Sep 21 US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Afghanistan demanding the return of the Bagram air base to the United States Posting on his social media platform Truth Social Trump wrote If Afghanistan doesnt give Bagram Airbase back to those that built it the United States of America bad things are going to happenTrump earlier reiterated that Washington has been pushing to regain control of the base which was a key operational hub for American forces following the September 11 2001 attacksAddressing reporters on Friday he confirmed that discussions with Afghanistan on the matter were underwayThe Bagram air base once the largest US military installation in Afghanistan was taken over by the Taliban after the withdrawal of American forces in 2021Meanwhile the Taliban regime has denounced Trumps remarks on BagramA senior Afghan official on Saturday slammed the US Presidents remarks on recapturing Bagram airbase saying Afghans never accept foreign military presence in their country reported the staterun Radio and Television of Afghanistan RTAAfghans have never accepted foreign military presence in their land throughout history Afghanistan and America need engagement on economic and political relations based on bilateral respect and common interests the stateowned media outlet cited Jalali a senior diplomat with the foreign ministry as saying Xinhua news agency reportedTrump who has been criticising his predecessor Joe Biden over giving up Bagram airbase during the US withdrawal in August 2021 told reporters in London on Thursday that We want to retake itThe Bagram airbase 50 km north of Kabul had served as the main military base of US troops in Afghanistan during the 20year military presence of USled military coalition forces which ended in August 2021 and paved the way for the collapse of the westernbacked forces and takeover of power by the current Afghan regime IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-warns-afghanistan-over-bagram-airbase-threatens-consequences-639721.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-one-dead-several-injured-in-new-hampshire-mass-shooting-639727.html New Hampshire Sep 21 A shooting at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua New Hampshire left one person dead and several others injured on Saturday local media reported citing officials The country club located near the Massachusetts border was hosting events at the time of the attackNew Hampshire Assistant Attorney General Peter Hinckley confirmed during a latenight press conference that some victims suffered gunshot wounds while others sustained injuries amid the chaos However officials did not specify the exact number of those injured according to CNNNo arrests have been made so far but one person of interest has been detained Hinckley saidPolice revealed that surveillance video captured the suspected shooter leading authorities to revise their initial statement that two suspects were involvedThe New Hampshire State Police announced on X that they are assisting with the investigation Nashua police have designated the Sheraton Nashua hotel located just over a mile from the country club as a unification site for affected familiesAuthorities have urged residents to avoid the Sky Meadow area until further noticeLawmakers expressed concern over the incident extending their prayers to victims and familiesBilly and I are praying for those injured wrote Sen Jeanne Shaheen adding There is no place in our state for this type of senseless violenceRep Maggie Goodlander also offered her condolences and said My heart is with the victims their families and the entire Nashua community as we await more informationSimilarly Sen Maggie Hassan also issued a statement saying Heart goes out to the families of those impacted while adding that she was grateful for the work of the law enforcement officers and first responders at the sceneAccording to its website Sky Meadow Country Club is a private facility that offers a golf course and serves as a venue for weddings and other large gatherings Officials confirmed that a wedding was being held at the time of the shootingNashua situated just 45 minutes from Boston has been left shaken as authorities continue their investigation into the deadly violence at the popular venue IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-one-dead-several-injured-in-new-hampshire-mass-shooting-639727.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 09:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/only-4-5-per-cent-of-sexual-crime-suspects-formally-arrested-each-year-in-south-korea-data-639734.html Seoul Sep 21 Around 30000 people in South Korea have been booked for sexual crimes each year for the past five years but only a handful of them have led to formal arrests data showed on Sunday Between 2020 and last year 28000 to 35000 cases of sexual crimes which involved the suspect being booked had been reported each year according to National Police Agency data received by Rep Chung Choonsaeng of the minor Rebuilding Korea PartyThe sexrelated crimes include rape indecent assault illicit filming using cameras obscene acts through telecommunications media and trespassing into multiuse facilities for sexual purposes reports Yonhap news agencyThe number of those booked for such crimes came to 28135 in 2020 29013 in 2021 35656 in 2022 34996 in 2023 and 31755 last yearOf them the proportion of suspects for whom the police sought arrest warrants ranged from 535 to 662 per cent each yearThe issuance rate of arrest warrants was even slimmer ranging from 402 to 51 per cent of the total number of cases booked the data showedIn particular suspects of stalking crimes being formally arrested have remained at around the 3 per cent range over the cited period despite the number of those booked on relevant charges surging from 9895 cases in 2022 to 11520 in 2023 and 12677 cases last year according to the lawmakerThe investigative agencies need to actively review filing an arrest warrant and the bench also should make a decision centred on the victim Rep Chung said noting that crimes involving stalking and sexual abuse have a high risk of second convictions IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/only-4-5-per-cent-of-sexual-crime-suspects-formally-arrested-each-year-in-south-korea-data-639734.html Sun, 21 Sep 2025 11:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-tightens-h-1b-rules-introduces-usd100-000-annual-fee-639538.html Washington Sep 20 In a major setback for Indian tech professionals working in the United States and top tech companies US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to significantly curtail the H1B visa programme According to the proclamation every application will now require a fee of 100000 per year an attempt to curtail the overuse of the visa programme and encourage hiring of domestic workersSigning the proclamation on Friday at the White House Trump said the incentive is to hire American workersWe need workers We need great workers and this pretty much ensures that Trump addedCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also defended the move saying the policy would discourage companies from hiring foreign workersSo the whole idea is no more will these big tech companies or other big companies train foreign workers They have to pay the government 100000 then they have to pay the employee So its just not economic Youre going to train somebody Youre going to train one of the recent graduates from one of the great universities across our land train Americans Stop bringing in people to take our jobs Thats the policy here 100000 a year for H1B visas he explainedLutnick also confirmed that the visa can be renewed only for a total period of six years and will be applicable for both new and renewal applicationsSo either the person is very valuable to the company and America or theyre going to depart Stop the nonsense of letting people just come into this country on these visas that were given away for free he addedThe proclamation claimed that the H1B visa programme has been deliberately exploited to replace rather than supplement American workers with lowerpaid lowerskilled labor and is undermining both our economic and national securityAccording to the order the Secretary of Labor will initiate a rulemaking to revise the prevailing wage levels as wellBoth Trump and Lutnick asserted that all major tech companies are on boardThey love it They really love it They need it I think theyre going to be very happy Everyones going to be happy And were going to be able to keep people in our country that are going to be very productive people Trump addedPresident Trump also signed an executive order creating a gold card programme that would enable people to obtain a visa for 1 million and corporations for 2 millionThe H1B visa programme capped at 85000 new visas annually allowed US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in fields like technology and engineering The latest move is expected to impact major American tech companies as wellAccording to Pew Research data Indiaborn workers received around 73 per cent of the total approved H1B visas in 2023 followed by China with 12 per cent primarily due to a huge backlog in approvals and a high number of skilled immigrants from IndiaIn August the Department of Homeland Security proposed changes to the existing system by eliminating the lottery set up with a weighted selection processThe US Department of Justice DoJ also intensified its scrutiny of hiring practices under the H1B visa program calling on workers and employers to report instances where US citizens are unfairly overlooked in favour of foreign visa holders The initiative is being led by Harmeet Dhillon the Indiaborn Assistant Attorney General of Civil Rights at the DoJDhillon announced in August that the department has opened several investigations and taken action against some employers already Send us your leads she urged Americans to reach out on DoJ hotlineIn December 2024 after the elections Trump had endorsed the H1B visas saying hes a believer in the program and had used it himself in the pastI have many H1B visas on my properties Ive been a believer in H1B I have used it many times Its a great program he had saidTrump weighed in after opposition over H1B visas from farright activists Tesla CEO and former Trump aide Elon Musk had also vowed to go to war to defend H1B visas IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-tightens-h-1b-rules-introduces-usd100-000-annual-fee-639538.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 06:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-tightens-h-1b-rules-introduces-100-000-usd-annual-fee-639539.html Washington Sep 20 In a major setback for Indian tech professionals working in the United States and top tech companies US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to significantly curtail the H1B visa programme According to the proclamation every application will now require a fee of 100000 per year an attempt to curtail the overuse of the visa programme and encourage hiring of domestic workersSigning the proclamation on Friday at the White House Trump said the incentive is to hire American workersWe need workers We need great workers and this pretty much ensures that Trump addedCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also defended the move saying the policy would discourage companies from hiring foreign workersSo the whole idea is no more will these big tech companies or other big companies train foreign workers They have to pay the government 100000 then they have to pay the employee So its just not economic Youre going to train somebody Youre going to train one of the recent graduates from one of the great universities across our land train Americans Stop bringing in people to take our jobs Thats the policy here 100000 a year for H1B visas he explainedLutnick also confirmed that the visa can be renewed only for a total period of six years and will be applicable for both new and renewal applicationsSo either the person is very valuable to the company and America or theyre going to depart Stop the nonsense of letting people just come into this country on these visas that were given away for free he addedThe proclamation claimed that the H1B visa programme has been deliberately exploited to replace rather than supplement American workers with lowerpaid lowerskilled labor and is undermining both our economic and national securityAccording to the order the Secretary of Labor will initiate a rulemaking to revise the prevailing wage levels as wellBoth Trump and Lutnick asserted that all major tech companies are on boardThey love it They really love it They need it I think theyre going to be very happy Everyones going to be happy And were going to be able to keep people in our country that are going to be very productive people Trump addedPresident Trump also signed an executive order creating a gold card programme that would enable people to obtain a visa for 1 million and corporations for 2 millionThe H1B visa programme capped at 85000 new visas annually allowed US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in fields like technology and engineering The latest move is expected to impact major American tech companies as wellAccording to Pew Research data Indiaborn workers received around 73 per cent of the total approved H1B visas in 2023 followed by China with 12 per cent primarily due to a huge backlog in approvals and a high number of skilled immigrants from IndiaIn August the Department of Homeland Security proposed changes to the existing system by eliminating the lottery set up with a weighted selection processThe US Department of Justice DoJ also intensified its scrutiny of hiring practices under the H1B visa program calling on workers and employers to report instances where US citizens are unfairly overlooked in favour of foreign visa holders The initiative is being led by Harmeet Dhillon the Indiaborn Assistant Attorney General of Civil Rights at the DoJDhillon announced in August that the department has opened several investigations and taken action against some employers already Send us your leads she urged Americans to reach out on DoJ hotlineIn December 2024 after the elections Trump had endorsed the H1B visas saying hes a believer in the program and had used it himself in the pastI have many H1B visas on my properties Ive been a believer in H1B I have used it many times Its a great program he had saidTrump weighed in after opposition over H1B visas from farright activists Tesla CEO and former Trump aide Elon Musk had also vowed to go to war to defend H1B visas IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/trump-tightens-h-1b-rules-introduces-100-000-usd-annual-fee-639539.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 06:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/mexico-lottery-proceeds-to-support-migrants-in-us-639540.html Mexico City Sep 20 Mexican authorities said that the proceeds from a special National Lottery draw held on September 15 will be used to expand protection programs for vulnerable Mexican migrants particularly those living in the United States National Lottery chief Olivia Salomon said the draw generated sales of 3385 million pesos about 184 million USD with net proceeds of 1159 million pesos after prize payouts Xinhua news agency reportedForeign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente said the funds will be used to support six initiatives designed to strengthen Mexicos consulates and provide better legal humanitarian and emergency assistance Related plans involve supporting legal representation visiting detention centers boosting consular staffing in highdemand locations and responding to natural disastersThese actions will be carried out with transparency with quarterly evaluations and public reports de la Fuente saidPresident Claudia Sheinbaum said The top priority is to pay bail for our compatriots which is often very difficult for them to affordEarlier this month the government of Mexico has officially joined the National Lotterys special draw Mexico with an M for Migrant which took place on September 15 at 4 pm The initiative recognizes Mexican migrants who support their families and communities from abroad with a single ticket offering a chance to win up to MXN255m 142mThe director general of the National Lottery highlighted that President Sheinbaum has designated that the funds raised from the draw after awarding prizes will be used to strengthen consular support and protection for Mexicans living abroad in times of uncertainty IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/mexico-lottery-proceeds-to-support-migrants-in-us-639540.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 07:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/iranian-fm-rejects-unfair-pressure-as-europe-pushes-to-restore-un-sanctions-639541.html Tehran Sep 20 Irans Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran would not accept political action and unfair pressure over its nuclear program warning such moves could escalate tensions He insisted Iran has consistently pursued diplomacy and technical cooperation Araghchi made the remarks in a phone call with International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA chief Rafael Grossi state news agency IRNA reported The call came after the UN Security Council failed to adopt a resolution that would have extended sanctions relief under the 2015 nuclear dealBritain France and Germany the socalled E3 last month triggered the deals snapback mechanism which allows UN sanctions to be reimposed within 30 days if Iran is judged in breach of the 2015 nuclear accord known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOA The sanctions are expected to take effect later this month Xinhua news agency reportedAraghchi criticised the political atmosphere at a recent IAEA board meeting saying Irans cooperation with the watchdog remained within international regulationsIrans foreign ministry separately denounced the European move as illegal unjustified and provocative accusing the E3 of undermining diplomacyThe E3 argue that Iran has failed to provide full access to inspectors withheld clarity over nuclear material and ignored a lateAugust deadline to present concrete proposals for returning to talks with the United States and other partiesIran held several rounds of nuclear negotiations with Washington earlier this year but halted both the talks and cooperation with the IAEA after Israeli strikes joined by the United States hit Iranian nuclear facilities in JuneSigned by Iran and six world powers in 2015 the JCPOA has been under strain since the United States unilaterally withdrew in 2018 prompting Tehran to gradually scale back compliance IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/iranian-fm-rejects-unfair-pressure-as-europe-pushes-to-restore-un-sanctions-639541.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 07:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-prez-trump-tightens-h-1b-visa-rules-introduces-100-000-annual-fee-639548.html Washington Sep 20 In a major setback for Indian tech professionals working in the United States and top tech companies US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to significantly curtail the H1B visa programme According to the proclamation every application will now require a fee of 100000 per year an attempt to curtail the overuse of the visa programme and encourage hiring of domestic workersSigning the proclamation on Friday at the White House Trump said the incentive is to hire American workersWe need workers We need great workers and this pretty much ensures that Trump addedCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also defended the move saying the policy would discourage companies from hiring foreign workersSo the whole idea is no more will these big tech companies or other big companies train foreign workers They have to pay the government 100000 then they have to pay the employee So its just not economic Youre going to train somebody Youre going to train one of the recent graduates from one of the great universities across our land train Americans Stop bringing in people to take our jobs Thats the policy here 100000 a year for H1B visas he explainedLutnick also confirmed that the visa can be renewed only for a total period of six years and will be applicable for both new and renewal applicationsSo either the person is very valuable to the company and America or theyre going to depart Stop the nonsense of letting people just come into this country on these visas that were given away for free he addedThe proclamation claimed that the H1B visa programme has been deliberately exploited to replace rather than supplement American workers with lowerpaid lowerskilled labor and is undermining both our economic and national securityAccording to the order the Secretary of Labor will initiate a rulemaking to revise the prevailing wage levels as wellBoth Trump and Lutnick asserted that all major tech companies are on boardThey love it They really love it They need it I think theyre going to be very happy Everyones going to be happy And were going to be able to keep people in our country that are going to be very productive people Trump addedPresident Trump also signed an executive order creating a gold card programme that would enable people to obtain a visa for 1 million and corporations for 2 millionThe H1B visa programme capped at 85000 new visas annually allowed US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in fields like technology and engineering The latest move is expected to impact major American tech companies as wellAccording to Pew Research data Indiaborn workers received around 73 per cent of the total approved H1B visas in 2023 followed by China with 12 per cent primarily due to a huge backlog in approvals and a high number of skilled immigrants from IndiaIn August the Department of Homeland Security proposed changes to the existing system by eliminating the lottery set up with a weighted selection processThe US Department of Justice DoJ also intensified its scrutiny of hiring practices under the H1B visa program calling on workers and employers to report instances where US citizens are unfairly overlooked in favour of foreign visa holders The initiative is being led by Harmeet Dhillon the Indiaborn Assistant Attorney General of Civil Rights at the DoJDhillon announced in August that the department has opened several investigations and taken action against some employers already Send us your leads she urged Americans to reach out on DoJ hotlineIn December 2024 after the elections Trump had endorsed the H1B visas saying hes a believer in the program and had used it himself in the pastI have many H1B visas on my properties Ive been a believer in H1B I have used it many times Its a great program he had saidTrump weighed in after opposition over H1B visas from farright activists Tesla CEO and former Trump aide Elon Musk had also vowed to go to war to defend H1B visas IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-prez-trump-tightens-h-1b-visa-rules-introduces-100-000-annual-fee-639548.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 09:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-special-counsel-notifies-ex-president-yoon-to-appear-for-questioning-next-week-639559.html Seoul Sep 20 A South Korean special counsel team on Saturday notified exPresident Yoon Suk Yeol to appear for questioning next week over allegations related to his failed martial law bid Special counsel Cho Eunsuks team said it issued the summons to Yoon to appear for questioning at the Seoul High Prosecutors Office on WednesdayThe team is expected to question Yoon on charges of whether he incited foreign aggression by ordering a drone dispatch to Pyongyang in October ahead of his shortlived declaration of martial law in DecemberIt would be the first time investigators attempt to question him over the allegation of inciting foreign aggressionYoon who has been in custody since July has been standing trial on charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power through the martial law bidIt remains unclear whether Yoon would appear as he has refused to cooperate with the special counsels probe and attend his insurrection trial since JulyThe team suspects Yoon of giving direct orders to the Drone Operations Command to dispatch drones to Pyongyang in an attempt to provoke North Korean military responses and allegedly create a pretext for the martial law impositionFormer drone command chief Maj Gen Kim Yongdae exJoint Chiefs of Staff JCS Chairman Adm Kim Myungsoo and Lt Gen Lee Seungoh the JCS operations chief have already been questioned over the allegationsThe commanders have denied any link between the drone dispatch and Yoons martial law arguing the operations were part of response measures to the Norths balloon campaigns against the SouthThe team also plans to question former Defense Minister Kim Yonghyun who is currently in custody at the Seoul Eastern Detention Centre on charges of insurrection officials saidYoons legal team claimed that the notice was delivered via text message to one of Yoons lawyers assigned to a different case involving the former president The team also said it was also busy preparing for upcoming court hearings scheduled for next week Yonhap news agency reportedThe summons investigation must be carried out lawfully and in accordance with due process through an official written notice and once we receive the notice we will review whether to comply with the questioning Yoons team said in a statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/south-korea-special-counsel-notifies-ex-president-yoon-to-appear-for-questioning-next-week-639559.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 10:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/india-celebrates-62nd-itec-day-in-myanmar-highlights-deepening-cooperation-cultural-bonds-639563.html Naypyidaw Sep 20 The 62nd Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation ITEC Programme Day was celebrated in Myanmars Naypyidaw which was attended by several diaspora members and officials Indias flagship capacitybuilding initiative more than 250 guests including Myanmar ITEC beneficiaries alumni of civilian and defence ITEC courses senior officials and members of the Indian community in Myanmar gathered in Naypyidaw for the celebrationsThe reception hosted by Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Abhay Thakur on Friday saw the presence of Myanmars Prime Minister U Nyo as Chief Guest accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs U Than Swe Minister for Investment and Foreign Economic Relations Wah Wah Maung Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ko Ko Kyaw and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Naing Min Kyaw along with senior representatives from various ministries and institutionsAccording to the Indian Embassy in Myanmar the ITEC programme was introduced in the country in 1996 with an initial 30 slotsOver the years this number has steadily grown to nearly 700 slots annually with around 500 actively utilised Since 2014 over 4500 professionals from Myanmar have participated in shortterm specialised training programmes under ITECAmong the most popular courses are Proficiency in English Language Leadership for 21st Century Professionals Public Policy and Administration Budgeting Accounting and Financial Management and Data AnalyticsDevelopment Cooperation for the benefit of the people of Myanmar driven by the needs and priorities of Myanmar has long been a distinguishing feature of Indias bilateral cooperation with Myanmar It extends from connectivity and infrastructure projects to initiatives in establishing longterm institutions for capacity building and human resource development in select areas read a statement issued by the Indian EmbassyIt further highlighted Indias major ongoing projects including the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project KMTTP and the IndiaMyanmarThailand Trilateral HighwayAlongside these several communityfocused initiatives are being implemented under frameworks such as the IndiaMyanmar Border Area Development Programme Rakhine State Development Programme High Impact Community Development Projects HICDPs and Quick Impact Projects QIPsAs a testament to the Government of Indias enduring commitment to longterm preservation of Myanmars invaluable religious heritage as well as to strengthen ageold cultural and spiritual bonds between the people of India and Myanmar the Archaeological Survey of India ASI is conserving and restoring 72 earthquakeaffected pagodas in Bagan over 10 years in three phases the Indian Embassy mentionedPhase I of the project was completed in December 2024 when 11 pagodas 22 works were completed and handed over to Myanmar in the presence of Ambassador Abhay Thakur and Myanmars Union Minister of Religious Affairs and Culture U Tin Oo Lwin in the ancient city of Bagan in the Southeast Asian nationA fourmember ASI team tasked to undertake Phase II of the structural conservation chemical preservation and restoration works comprising approximately 50 earthquakeaffected Pagodas commenced its work in September 2025The Indian Embassy further emphasised Indias commitment to continue its assistance in meeting the socioeconomic needs of the people of Myanmar across different states and regions and across different sectors in the years ahead IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/india-celebrates-62nd-itec-day-in-myanmar-highlights-deepening-cooperation-cultural-bonds-639563.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 10:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/russia-denies-airspace-violation-during-mig-31-transfer-flight-639564.html Moscow Sep 20 Russia said that a flight by three Russian MiG31 fighter jets from Karelia to the Kaliningrad region adhered to international aviation rules and did not cross into the airspace of other countries In a statement published on its Telegram channel on Saturday the Defence Ministry said that the redeployment flight on Friday was scheduled in advance and carried out under objective monitoring systems which confirmed that no borders were violated Xinhua news agency reportedThe statement came after Estonias Foreign Ministry summoned Russias charge daffaires on Friday to protest over what it claimed was an airspace violation by Russian aircraftEarlier in the day Estonia had summoned Russias charge daffaires to protest what it said was an airspace violation by three Russian fighter jets an allegation Moscow flatly deniedThe Estonian Foreign Ministry had said in a statement that the incursion took place over the Gulf of Finland where three Russian Federation MIG31 fighter aircraft entered Estonian airspace without permission and remained there for a total of 12 minutesEstonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal had said Tallinn would seek NATO consultations under Article 4 in response to what she called Russias provocations Article 4 allows any NATO member to call for discussions when it perceives a threat to its territorial integrity or securityRussias Defence Ministry had rejected the accusation saying the aircraft were on a planned flight that was carried out in strict compliance with international airspace regulations and did not violate the borders of other states as confirmed by objective monitoringTensions have escalated between the Nato military alliance and Russia in the last week after Poland and Romania both Nato members said Russian drones breached their airspaceNato confirmed its jets intercepted the Russian aircraftEarlier today Russian jets violated Estonian airspace Nato responded immediately and intercepted the Russian aircraft This is yet another example of reckless Russian behaviour and Natos ability to respond a spokesperson said on XThe alliance patrols the skies over Estonia and other Baltic states under its Baltic Sentry mission IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/russia-denies-airspace-violation-during-mig-31-transfer-flight-639564.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 11:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/russia-expresses-regret-over-un-failure-to-stop-gaza-war-639568.html Moscow Sep 20 Russias Foreign Ministry expressed regret that the United Nations Security Council remains unable to end the violence and humanitarian suffering in the Gaza Strip due to repeated vetoes by the United States The UN Security Councils inability to stop the fighting and bloodshed and end the suffering of civilians is therefore deeply regrettable and disappointing the ministry said in a statement published on its official website on FridayOn Thursday a group of nonpermanent members of the Security Council attempted yet again to adopt a resolution calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip the release of hostages and access for humanitarian aidAll council members voted in favour of the draft resolution except the United States which used its veto for the seventh time since the escalation of the crisis Xinhua news agency reportedThe Foreign Ministry reiterated that Russias position on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict remains consistent While condemning the Hamas attack of October 7 2023 Moscow said the incident cannot and should not be used as a pretext for the collective punishment of Palestinian civilians or for fueling a broader war in the Middle EastRussia believes that achieving genuine peace and security in the region is impossible without a just settlement of the Palestinian issue and the fulfillment of the legitimate rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people the ministry addedEarlier on September 18 the United States had vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded Israel immediately lift all restrictions on humanitarian access and delivery in GazaThe draft would have also called for an immediate unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and for the unconditional dignified and immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and other armed groupsThe draft put forward by the 10 elected members of the Security Council won 14 votes in favour among the 15member council The United States a permanent member of the council has veto powerThe US veto drew widespread criticism in the Security CouncilAlgerian UN ambassador Amar Bendjama had said that the 14 council members who voted in favor of the draft resolution have acted with conscience echoing the calls of the international public opinionAgain this council failed another scar of the conscience of humanity he had said adding that it is a shame in the face of a genocide unfolding before open eyesAnd at this moment there can be no ambiguity Each of us must choose either to act to stop the genocide or to be counted among those who were complicit he saidSomali UN ambassador Abukar Dahir Osman had depicted Thursdays voting result as a profound moral failureHe said the draft is grounded in the very language and spirit of the UN Charter which all member states have vowed to uphold The draft resolution demanded the bare minimum Yet time and again the Security Council has been blocked from actionRussian UN ambassador Vassily Nebenzia had said that there will be no breakthrough on the Middle East question as long as Washingtons perception of the Gaza crisis remains unchanged and as long as it views multilateral diplomacy at the United Nations as an obstacle rather than a critically important toolThe UN Security Council will remain a helpless witness to this catastrophe paralyzed not by some inherent structural flaw but by the will or more accurately by the lack thereof of one single delegation he had saidOn the US claim that the draft resolution if adopted would undermine diplomacy on the ground Nebenzia had said the Israeli attack on Qatar a major mediator of the Gaza conflict bears evidence of Israels lack of interest in peaceThat act was essentially an assault on the very idea of attaining an agreement It discredited any assertions that Israel is allegedly ready to embrace diplomacy and reach a deal Blaming Hamas for derailing the talks as our American colleagues are persistently doing is utterly absurd he had saidBritish UN ambassador Barbara Woodward also regretted that the Security Council was unable to reach a consensus on the draft resolutionWe need a ceasefire more than ever And yet Israels reckless expansion of its military operation takes us further away from a deal which could bring the hostages home and end the suffering in Gaza she had saidWe are witnessing an entirely manmade famine in Gaza and images of starving Palestinians killed while desperately seeking scraps of food for their families she had saidWe urge Israels government to end the bloodshed which has already cost the lives of 65000 Palestinians and to immediately lift its restrictions on the entry of aid and allow the UN and humanitarian agencies to save lives IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/russia-expresses-regret-over-un-failure-to-stop-gaza-war-639568.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 11:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-tech-firms-urge-h-1b-visa-workers-to-return-before-sunday-deadline-639570.html New Delhi Sep 20 US tech films like Microsoft have advised employees with H1B and H4 visas who are currently outside the United States to return immediately ahead of the September 21 deadline set by President Donald Trump when the 100000 fee on H1B visa comes into effect The US administration has imposed a 100000 annual fee on each visa The new rule will take effect on September 21 and remain in force for 12 months the US President saidAccording to reports companies like Microsoft and JPMorgan have instructed H1B workers currently in the US to continue their employment in the country for the foreseeable future and avoid international travel until further guidanceMicrosoft has also reportedly recommended H4 visa holders to remain in the US We strongly recommend H1B and H4 visa holders return to the US tomorrow before the deadline according to the companyThere was no official statement yet from either Microsoft or JPMorganPresident Trump expects the revised feebased visa programme to generate over 100 billion for the US Treasury designated for national debt reduction and tax cuts Critics however argued that the new fee hinders talent mobility and stifles innovationApproximately 71 per cent of H1B visa holders are from India primarily working for technology companies including Infosys Wipro Cognisant and Tata Consultancy ServicesShares of major IT services firms including USlisted Indian companies dropped by 2 per cent to 5 per cent following the announcementWith visas typically valid for three years and renewable up to six the new 100000 annual fee could make it expensive for companies to retain Indian professionals especially given the decadeslong wait for Green CardsThe H1B programme allows US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in fields like technology and engineering IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-tech-firms-urge-h-1b-visa-workers-to-return-before-sunday-deadline-639570.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 11:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/mauritius-it-minister-lauds-indias-c-dot-lab-urges-deeper-bilateral-collaboration-639577.html New Delhi Sep 20 Mauritiuss Minister for Information Technology Communication and Innovation Dr Avinash Ramtohul who visited the Centre for Development of Telematics CDOT here has urged the need for deeper collaboration between the two countries in emergency alerting and telecom innovation the Ministry of Communications said The minister commended the centres disastermanagement and cybersecurity initiatives Ramtohul assessed CDOTs Early Warning System and Cell Broadcast solution and commented on its implementation nationwide to notify citizens including fishing communities of impending natural hazardsCDOTs cybersecurity stack includes a realtime Security Operations Centre Quantum Key Distribution PostQuantum Cryptography and SAMVADa a secure chat and calling application the Ministry saidCDOT CEO Dr Rajkumar Upadhyay introduced the Mauritius delegation to diverse telecom product portfoliossolutions in the areas of key applications such as Disaster management solution using ITU CAP protocol and Cell Broadcast solutionThe CEO also demonstrated new telecom innovations including 4G and 5G core and RAN networks switching and routing platformsThe solution is highly beneficial and would help in saving the lives of citizens including the fishermen community This engagement has set the stage for deeper forwardlooking collaboration in emergency alerting and telecom innovation Ramtohul saidHe also appreciated the RampD efforts of CDOTs research community and stressed the need for a larger collaboration for the development of futuristic and cuttingedge telecom solutions for mutual benefitsCDOT the RampD arm of the Department of Telecommunications has led Indias rural connectivity efforts and is currently exploring 6G use cases the Ministry notedOver the past four decades CDoT has been at the forefront of Indias telecom revolution bringing connectivity to rural areas powering the ambitious BharatNet NOFN project and delivering cuttingedge solutions in cyber security disaster management 4G5G next generation networks AI Network Management Systems IoTM2M applications among others IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/mauritius-it-minister-lauds-indias-c-dot-lab-urges-deeper-bilateral-collaboration-639577.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/venezuela-calls-on-un-to-stop-us-military-moves-in-caribbean-639596.html Caracas Sep 20 Venezuela has called on the United Nations Security Council to demand an immediate halt to US military operations in the Caribbean In a post on the social platform Telegram on Friday local time Foreign Minister Yvan Gil shared a video of a related speech at the UN by Venezuelas permanent representative Alexander Yanez saying the appeal was made on behalf of President Nicolas MaduroIn the video Yanez told the Security Council that his country has been the target of systemic harassment by Washington including smear campaigns unilateral sanctions and a rejection of Venezuelan institutions reports Xinhua news agencyHe warned that the situation has escalated into a more dangerous phase with US naval air and ground deployments in the Caribbean including sending a nuclear submarine which he said violates the UN CharterYanez also pointed to US reports of extrajudicial executions in the CaribbeanVenezuela urged the UN system to condemn the US moves which it said threaten stability in both the South American country and the wider regionEarlier on September 15 the Venezuelan President said that channels of communication between the United States and Venezuela have been severed by Washington amid persistent aggressionToday I can announce that communications with the US government have been severed by them Maduro told a press conference in Caracas Venezuelas capitalThe President blamed the breakdown on threats and blackmail from WashingtonMaduro stressed that Venezuela has managed to preserve peace despite provocations from the United StatesFor the past five weeks he said Venezuela has faced challenges while working to maintain stability He added that Venezuela is exercising its legitimate right to defend itself against political diplomatic and potential military aggression IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/venezuela-calls-on-un-to-stop-us-military-moves-in-caribbean-639596.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 13:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-canadian-nsas-discuss-counterterrorism-security-cooperation-mea-639609.html New Delhi Sep 20 National Security Advisor NSA Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie G Drouin discussed strengthening the bilateral relationship in areas such as counterterrorism combating transnational organised crime and Intelligence exchanges the Ministry of External Affairs MEA said on Saturday Doval and Drouin met on Thursday September 18 in New Delhi as part of the regular bilateral security dialogue between the two sidesAccording to the MEA it was also an opportunity to follow up on the discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis in Alberta Canada earlier this yearBoth sides acknowledged the clear momentum for rebuilding trust and expanding cooperation at the highest levels of political leadership They had productive discussions on advancing the bilateral relationship including in areas such as counterterrorism combating transnational organised crime and Intelligence exchanges the MEA saidBoth sides also agreed to work closely on the way forward and adopt a collaborative approach towards a new chapter in bilateral relations it addedThey agreed to strengthen security cooperation and further reinforce existing mechanisms of engagement The two NSAs also deliberated on the priority areas for future cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global developments the MEA statement readEarlier on Friday reacting strongly to the reports of growing Khalistani threats to Indian diplomatic missions in Canada including the Indian Consulate in Vancouver the MEA made it clear that it is the responsibility of the Canadian government to provide security as and when there is a concernIt is the responsibility of the Canadian government or the host government wherever we are wherever we have diplomatic establishments to provide security as and when there is a concern we do take it up with the concerned side in this case Canada to ensure that there is adequate security of our diplomatic premises MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a weekly media briefing in New Delhi while responding to a question on the threats being issued to the Indian Consulates in CanadaThe reaction came after the NSAs of both countries held talks on Thursday as part of the regular bilateral security consultations between Ottawa and New DelhiThe NSA of Canada held talks with our National Security Advisor I think it happened yesterday the 18th This is part of the regular bilateral security consultations that happen between the two countries It was also an opportunity and an occasion for them to follow up on the discussions that happened between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Carney in Kananaskis on the sidelines of the G7 in Alberta Canada stated JaiswalIt was on the sidelines of the G7 Summit that PM Modi and Carney held a meeting aimed at reviving the strained ties between both nations The June 18 discussions were described as very positive and constructive by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri As an initial move both leaders had agreed to restore High Commissioners to each others capitals at the earliest opportunityFurther the two nations resolved to revive senior and workinglevel mechanisms on various fronts They also agreed to resume senior and workinglevel mechanisms and discussions in a host of areas related to trade peopletopeople contact and connectivity all of them intended to bring greater momentum to the relationshipThe ties between India and Canada had soured after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged in the Canadian Parliament that he had credible allegations of Indias hand in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh NijjarA major diplomatic row had erupted when Canada labelled Indias High Commissioner and other diplomats as persons of interest in the investigation of Nijjars deathIndia denied all the allegations calling them absurd and motivated accusing Ottawa of giving space to extremist and antiIndia elements in the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/indian-canadian-nsas-discuss-counterterrorism-security-cooperation-mea-639609.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 14:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/unexploded-wwii-bomb-defused-in-hong-kong-639626.html Hong Kong Sep 20 The Hong Kong Police Force on Saturday morning defused the unexploded World War II bomb discovered at a construction site in the Eastern District according to a police briefing The Police said that the site and its surroundings are now safe enough for evacuated residents to return and all blocked roads had been reopenedDespite a rain delay the Police managed to cut a hole in the shell and burn the 500 pounds of TNT explosives inside a highstakes operation given the power of the bomb said Suryanto Chinchiu senior bomb disposal officer of the Polices explosive ordnance disposal bureauTo dispose of the aerial bomb which is 15 metre long and weighs about 1000 pounds the Police had evacuated around 6000 people in surrounding buildings by 11 pm on Friday Xinhua news agency reported Some of them spent the night at community centers with assistance from care teams and District Council membersMeanwhile it has been revealed that an explosion in the town of Tsotyli northern Greece which left two men injured on Friday was caused by a World War II shell Greek state broadcaster ERT reportedThe blast occurred around 1130 am local time at a yard for earthmoving machinery where a 54yearold man sustained multiple traumatic injuries and a 45yearold man suffered fracturesThe 54yearold victim who was in critical condition with severe burns and partial amputations to his knee and elbow was transferred to Hippocrates Hospital in Thessaloniki The second man underwent orthopedic surgery at Mamatseio Hospital in Kozani and will remain there for observationArmy bomb disposal experts examined the site following the explosion and confirmed the presence of ammunition fragments indicating the device was a wartime shell ERT saidAuthorities have cordoned off the area while investigations continue IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/unexploded-wwii-bomb-defused-in-hong-kong-639626.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 16:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-study-unlocks-secrets-of-ancient-life-through-fossil-faeces-639629.html Sydney Sep 20 An Australianled study used prehistoric faeces to uncover how molecular fossilisation occurs revealing new insights into what ancient animals ate the world they lived in and what happened after they died The study published in the journal Geobiology examined 300millionyearold fossilised droppings or coprolites mostly from the Mazon Creek fossil site in the United States according to a statement released Friday by Australias Curtin UniversityThe coprolites were already known to contain cholesterol derivatives which is strong evidence of a meatbased diet but the new research explored how those delicate molecular traces were preserved and survived the ravages of time reports Xinhua news agencyUsually soft tissues are fossilised due to phosphate minerals but scientists from Australia the United States Sweden and Germany found molecules were preserved thanks to tiny grains of iron carbonate scattered throughout the fossil acting like microscopic time capsulesFossils dont just preserve the shapes of longextinct creatures they can also hold chemical traces of life said study lead Madison Tripp adjunct research fellow at Curtins School of Earth and Planetary SciencesIts a bit like discovering a treasure chest in this instance phosphate but the real gold is stashed in the pebbles nearby Tripp said adding the findings deepen scientists understanding of molecular preservation crucial to gaining insights into the ancient worldCarbonate minerals have been quietly preserving biological information throughout Earths history said Curtin University Professor Kliti Grice adding that expanded analysis of diverse fossils spanning different species environments and eras confirmed consistent mineralmolecule preservation patternsUnderstanding which minerals best preserve ancient biomolecules lets scientists target fossil searches more effectively focusing on conditions that increase the chances of finding molecular clues about ancient life Grice saidResearchers said the findings could help build richer pictures of past ecosystems including diets interactions and decomposition processesIt brings prehistoric worlds to life in molecular detail Grice said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/australian-study-unlocks-secrets-of-ancient-life-through-fossil-faeces-639629.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 16:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/study-unlocks-secrets-of-ancient-life-through-fossil-feces-639631.html Sydney Sep 20 An Australianled study used prehistoric feces to uncover how molecular fossilization occurs revealing new insights into what ancient animals ate the world they lived in and what happened after they died The study published in the journal Geobiology examined 300millionyearold fossilized droppings or coprolites mostly from the Mazon Creek fossil site in the United States according to a statement released Friday by Australias Curtin UniversityThe coprolites were already known to contain cholesterol derivatives which is strong evidence of a meatbased diet but the new research explored how those delicate molecular traces were preserved and survived the ravages of timeUsually soft tissues are fossilised due to phosphate minerals but scientists from Australia the United States Sweden and Germany found molecules were preserved thanks to tiny grains of iron carbonate scattered throughout the fossil acting like microscopic time capsulesFossils dont just preserve the shapes of longextinct creatures they can also hold chemical traces of life said study lead Madison Tripp adjunct research fellow at Curtins School of Earth and Planetary Sciences Xinhua news agency reportedIts a bit like discovering a treasure chest in this instance phosphate but the real gold is stashed in the pebbles nearby Tripp said adding the findings deepen scientists understanding of molecular preservation crucial to gaining insights into the ancient worldCarbonate minerals have been quietly preserving biological information throughout Earths history said Curtin University Professor Kliti Grice adding expanded analysis of diverse fossils spanning different species environments and eras confirmed consistent mineralmolecule preservation patternsUnderstanding which minerals best preserve ancient biomolecules lets scientists target fossil searches more effectively focusing on conditions that increase the chances of finding molecular clues about ancient life Grice saidResearchers said the findings could help build richer pictures of past ecosystems including diets interactions and decomposition processesIt brings prehistoric worlds to life in molecular detail Grice said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/study-unlocks-secrets-of-ancient-life-through-fossil-feces-639631.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 16:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/japans-one-year-rice-demand-through-next-june-estimated-at-711-million-tonnes-639636.html Tokyo Sep 20 Demand for rice in Japan is estimated to rise slightly to 711 million tonnes in the year through June 2026 according to the countrys agriculture ministry The 2025 staple rice production is expected to see a significant increase to 745 million tonnes boosted by expanded planting in response to shortages an estimate from the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries has shownMeanwhile the private sectors rice inventory is forecast to reach nearly 23 million tonnes by the end of June next year an unusually high level that could approach the record stockpile that was built up in 2015 Xinhua news agency reportedFor the key oneyear estimate the ministrys food council subgroup which used to make staple rice demand projections in view of falling population and increased bread consumption took into account for the first time increasing demand from foreign tourists and householdsMeanwhile the Philippines is considering extending its rice import suspension by 15 to 30 days as farmgate prices of palay or unhusked rice improve Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said on FridayPhilippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos earlier imposed a 60day ban from September to October to protect local farmers during the peak harvest seasonLaurel said the Department of Agriculture will recommend to Marcos by the end of September whether to prolong the moratorium Pending data validation I am now inclined to recommend that he extend the ban for at least 15 to 30 days he addedAccording to preliminary data wet palay prices rose from as low as 810 pesos 014017 US dollars per kilo before the ban to 17 pesos 029 dollars in some parts of Mindanao and 1314 pesos 022024 dollars in major ricegrowing provincesThe cost of producing a kilo of palay is estimated at 1214 pesos 021024 dollars Laurel said IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/japans-one-year-rice-demand-through-next-june-estimated-at-711-million-tonnes-639636.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 17:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/afghan-senior-official-slams-trumps-remarks-on-bagram-airbase-639637.html Kabul Sep 20 A senior Afghan official has slammed recent remarks of US President Donald Trump on recapturing Bagram airbase in postwar Afghanistan saying Afghans never accept foreign military presence in their country reported the staterun Radio and Television of Afghanistan RTA Afghans have never accepted foreign military presence in their land throughout history Afghanistan and America need engagement on economic and political relations based on bilateral respect and common interests the stateowned media outlet cited Jalali a senior diplomat with the foreign ministry as saying Xinhua news agency reportedTrump who has been criticising his predecessor Joe Biden over giving up Bagram airbase during the US withdrawal in August 2021 told reporters in London on Thursday that We want to retake itThe Bagram airbase 50 km north of Kabul had served as the main military base of US troops in Afghanistan during the 20year military presence of USled military coalition forces which ended in August 2021 and paved the way for the collapse of the westernbacked forces and takeover of power by the current Afghan regimeMeanwhile as the world prepares to mark the International Day of Peace on September 21 Afghans who have suffered from more than four decades of conflict say their greatest wish is simple enduring peaceMore than four decades of war and civil unrest according to Afghans have left their country undeveloped and impoverishedMy wish for Afghanistan is to have lasting peace and security to see the return of refugees and their contribution to rebuilding the country said Abdul Qadus Rahmani a Kabul baker and father of sixRahmani 45 explained that even his daily bread sales reflect the countrys fragile stability If there is war I sell 200 to 300 pieces of bread a day In a peaceful environment I can sell 1000 to 1500 and earn a better incomeAs the International Day of Peace approaches ordinary Afghans see tranquility not as an abstract ideal but as the foundation for work education and dignity proof that even after decades of hardship the simple hope for peace endures IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/afghan-senior-official-slams-trumps-remarks-on-bagram-airbase-639637.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 17:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/fossilised-faeces-help-bring-prehistoric-worlds-to-life-study-reveals-639639.html Sydney Sep 20 An Australianled study used prehistoric feces to uncover how molecular fossilization occurs revealing new insights into what ancient animals ate the world they lived in and what happened after they died The study published in the journal Geobiology examined 300millionyearold fossilized droppings or coprolites mostly from the Mazon Creek fossil site in the United States according to a statement released Friday by Australias Curtin University The coprolites were already known to contain cholesterol derivatives which is strong evidence of a meatbased diet but the new research explored how those delicate molecular traces were preserved and survived the ravages of timeUsually soft tissues are fossilised due to phosphate minerals but scientists from Australia the United States Sweden and Germany found molecules were preserved thanks to tiny grains of iron carbonate scattered throughout the fossil acting like microscopic time capsulesStudy lead Madison Tripp an Adjunct Research Fellow at Curtins School of Earth and Planetary Sciences said the findings add a new dimension to how scientists understand molecular preservation which is crucial to gaining insights into the ancient worldFossils dont just preserve the shapes of longextinct creatures they can also hold chemical traces of life Tripp saidBut how those delicate molecules survive for hundreds of millions of years has long been a mystery since phosphate minerals help preserve the fossils shape and structure we might have expected these to also help preserve molecules but we found instead that it was the iron carbonate that shielded the molecular traces insideIts a bit like discovering a treasure chest in this instance phosphate but the real gold is stashed in the pebbles nearbyCarbonate minerals have been quietly preserving biological information throughout Earths history said Curtin University Professor Kliti Grice adding expanded analysis of diverse fossils spanning different species environments and eras confirmed consistent mineralmolecule preservation patternsTo determine whether this mineralmolecule association was unique to the Mazon Creek site researchers expanded the analysis to include a diverse range of fossils spanning different species environments and time periodsFounding Director of Curtins WAOrganic and Isotope Geochemistry Centre and ARC Laureate Fellow Professor Kliti Grice said this revealed the findings were consistent across the samplesThis isnt just a oneoff or a lucky find its a pattern we are starting to see repeated which tells us carbonate minerals have been quietly preserving biological information throughout Earths history Professor Grice saidUnderstanding which minerals are most likely to preserve ancient biomolecules means we can be far more targeted in our fossil searchesRather than relying on chance we can look for specific conditions that give us the best shot at uncovering molecular clues about ancient lifeProfessor Grice said by revealing how biomolecules are preserved scientists were gaining powerful new tools to reconstruct the world hundreds of millions of years agoThis helps us build a much richer picture of past ecosystems not just what animals looked like but how they lived interacted and decomposed Professor Grice saidIt brings prehistoric worlds to life in molecular detail he was quoted as saying in a statement released by Curtin University IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/fossilised-faeces-help-bring-prehistoric-worlds-to-life-study-reveals-639639.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 17:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/repression-in-china-both-a-political-imperative-and-a-profitable-business-report-639645.html New Delhi Sep 20 Leaked documents from two Chinese firms infrastructure builder Geedge Networks and AI company GoLaxy have revealed how repression in China is both a political imperative and a profitable business illustrating that the country is not only perfecting digital authoritarianism at home but also packaging it for export according to a report in The Diplomat The leaked internal files from Geedge Networks laid bare how Geedge sold itself as a cybersecurity company while actually building censorship and surveillance infrastructure the report mentionedGoLaxy was exposed when researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered nearly 400 pages of internal planning documents It is a Beijingbased company that has emerged as a major player in deploying AI tools that monitor influence and manipulate narratives onlineTogether these leaks have provided an unprecedented window into the mechanics of Chinas censorship and propaganda apparatus the report addedIt further stated that the products they sell differ though they complement each other within the larger control systemGeedge is an infrastructure builder Its flagship product the Tiangou Secure Gateway is essentially a turnkey firewall in a box It performs deep packet inspection blocks VPNs and other circumvention tools fingerprints devices analyzes metadata and even offers prototype reputationbased access controls according to the reportGoLaxy systems ingest opensource social media data map relationships among political actors and influencers and use artificial intelligence to generate content for orchestrated campaignsDashboards allow operators to monitor discourse around sensitive topics Taiwan Hong Kong Xinjiang US politics and plan interventions by seeding narratives or amplifying favoured voices Where Geedge builds the pipes for information control GoLaxy provides the tools to flood those pipes with content aligned to government priorities the Diplomat report explainedGeedge has even reached abroad marketing its Great Firewall in a box to regimes that want Chinesestyle control Reports show deployments in Kazakhstan Pakistan Ethiopia and MyanmarUnlike Geedge GoLaxy does not yet appear to export its tools widely to foreign regimes instead it focuses on strengthening the CCPs domestic propaganda system and building the capacity for global influence campaigns said the reportThe report further stated that these client patterns reveal how both firms embody the partystates dual strategy to perfect control at home and to promote its model abroadBoth companies also maintain close ties to the Chinese Academy of Sciences CAS Chinas premier research institution This makes clear that China has turned repression into an export industry the report stressed IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/repression-in-china-both-a-political-imperative-and-a-profitable-business-report-639645.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 17:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/smokescreen-or-strategy-why-isi-is-unlikely-to-shift-terror-bases-to-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-639672.html New Delhi Sep 20 Over the past week there have been many reports relating to the damage caused to the terror infrastructure in Pakistan following Operation Sindoor Terrorists on their own have been posting videos about the damage caused to the Muridke training camp of the LashkareTaiba Further terrorists of the JaisheMohammad have openly spoken about how their chief Masood Azhars family was blown to pieces due the operation that India undertook to avenge the Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 innocent livesAmidst this there was also news that terror groups are shifting out of Bahawalpur and Murdike and setting up their camps and headquarters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KPWhile outfits such as the LashkareTaiba and JaisheMohammad have terror bases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Indian Intelligence agencies however have doubts on this claimOfficials say that given the current equation that Pakistan has with the Afghan Taliban the ISI would not risk moving major operations of its top two terror outfits to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa The Afghan Taliban would be breathing down their neck and to add to the misery of the ISI would be the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTPThe TTP is very active in Pakistans northwest province Khyber PakhtunkhwaThere are operations that are carried out on a regular basis by the Pakistan Army against the TTP and this has made the place extremely volatile Hence the ISI may not take the gamble and shift the major bases of the two terror groups to KPThis week the security forces in Pakistan gunned down three terrorists including an Afghan national in KP The three were said to be involved in a bombing in Peshawar which led to the death of a subinspector and constableLast weeks raids by the Pakistan security forces in KP led to the death of 19 soldiers and 45 terrorists Pakistan has repeatedly said that the TTP with the help of the Afghan Taliban carries out attacks on Pakistani soldiersKhyber Pakhtunkhwas proximity to the Afghan border also makes the place a high risk zoneThe TTP has been accused of using the Afghan border to launch attacks against the Pakistan ArmyTaking all these aspects into mind the ISI may not want the terrorists of the LashkareTaiba or the JaisheMohammad to be caught in a cross fire Intelligence Bureau officials say that putting out news stating that operations are being moved to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to escape from the radar of the Indian forces could be a smoke screen to divert attentionPutting out such material gives the ISI the breathing space to create new infrastructure for the terror groups Pakistan may not have expected in its wildest dreams that India could carry out an operation of such a scale The precision strikes and the depth is what hit Pakistan the most and caused it major embarrassmentOfficials say that despite Operation Sindoor Pakistan will not change its policy regarding terror However this time it does know that any terror attack will be treated as an act of war and India will hit harderIn such an event it would want to ensure that even if there is a hit there is no major damage to terror infrastructure Operation Sindoor was a huge setback for terror groups especially the JaisheMohammad and LashkareTaiba There is panic among the ranks the ISI knows thisGiven the circumstances and taking into consideration the might of the Indian armed forces and also the rising tensions with the Afghan Taliban Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would not be the best option for the ISI to set up terror operationsIn the aftermath of Operation Sindoor the ISI started to pull terror camps and related infrastructure from known places It was decided that the main facilities such as the headquarters and the training camps will be set up close to army installations This decision was taken keeping in mind that in case of an operation by the Indian armed forces the Pakistan Army would be able to protect the terror infrastructure IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/smokescreen-or-strategy-why-isi-is-unlikely-to-shift-terror-bases-to-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-639672.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 18:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/four-killed-in-ukrainian-drone-attack-in-russias-samara-region-639688.html Moscow Sep 20 A nighttime drone attack by Ukraine killed four people and injured another in Russias Samara region Regional Governor Vyacheslav Fedorishchev said on Saturday It is with deep sorrow that I report that four people were killed as a result of a night attack by enemy UAVs Fedorishchev said on social mediaAnother person was injured and the regional government will provide the families of the victims with necessary assistance including financial support he addedThe Russian defence ministry said Saturday that air defence systems shot down 149 drones overnight including 15 over the Samara region Xinhua news agency reportedMeanwhile Russia said that a flight by three Russian MiG31 fighter jets from Karelia to the Kaliningrad region adhered to international aviation rules and did not cross into the airspace of other countriesIn a statement published on its Telegram channel on Saturday the Defence Ministry said that the redeployment flight on Friday was scheduled in advance and carried out under objective monitoring systems which confirmed that no borders were violatedThe statement came after Estonias Foreign Ministry summoned Russias charge daffaires on Friday to protest over what it claimed was an airspace violation by Russian aircraftThe Estonian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the incursion took place over the Gulf of Finland where three Russian Federation MIG31 fighter aircraft entered Estonian airspace without permission and remained there for a total of 12 minutesEstonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said Tallinn would seek NATO consultations under Article 4 in response to what she called Russias provocations Article 4 allows any NATO member to call for discussions when it perceives a threat to its territorial integrity or security IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/four-killed-in-ukrainian-drone-attack-in-russias-samara-region-639688.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 21:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/us-experts-warn-trump-administration-against-undermining-relationship-with-india-report-639693.html Washington Sep 20 US strategic experts have warned the administration led by President Donald Trump about the consequences of straining ties with India a report cited on Saturday According to a report in Eurasia Review top former US officials Kurt Campbell and Jake Sullivan remarked in an article in Foreign Affairs that the only thing harder than building and formalising a deeply significant relationship with India is not having oneThe report said that the former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has also cautioned that damaging ties with India would effectively give China a pass amid Beijings deepening relationship with MoscowTensions have recently surfaced in the USIndia relationship particularly after President Donald Trumps decision to impose tariffs on India over its oil purchases from Russia By penalizing India for purchasing Russian oil while strengthening ties with Pakistan the US risks alienating one of its most important partnersand undermining Indias longstanding relationship with Russia the report detailedIf the trust deficit between India and the US continues to widen both nations could lose influence in the strategically vital Indian Ocean region The reality is clear India and the United States need each other now more than ever it addedAccording to the report unlike the restrictions placed on India Trumps trade deal with Pakistan which included preferential tariffs and support for oil exploration did not require Pakistan to limit its relationship with China This leniency it said has emboldened Pakistan to adopt a more aggressive strategy towards IndiaThe report highlighted that Indias relationship with the US has soured in recent months especially after Trump hosted Pakistans controversial army chief Asim Munir at the White House in Washington following the deadly April 22 Pahlagam terrorist attackMunirs provocative remarks about Pakistans potential global impact seemingly aimed at India If Pakistan goes down it would take half the world down with it made during a meeting in Tampa Florida in the presence of US military officials sparked widespread criticismFormer Pentagon official Michael Rubin compared Munir to Osama bin Laden in a suit and criticised the US for failing to understand the ideological foundation of terrorismIndia has long been a steadfast US ally since the end of the Cold War Former President Barack Obama called India an indispensable partner and as a key member of the Quad India stands at the heart of Washingtons IndoPacific strategya framework China views as an Asian NATO Until the recent trade dispute both countries enjoyed a strong partnership serving as a counterweight to Chinas influence in the region the report noted IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/us-experts-warn-trump-administration-against-undermining-relationship-with-india-report-639693.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 21:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/nepal-interim-pm-karki-has-to-rebuild-public-trust-in-governance-639694.html Kathmandu Sep 20 Nepal has become the latest country where public mobilisation has overthrown the ruling regime fueled by anger over widespread corruption nepotism and administrative misgovernance a report cited on Saturday It said the mass uprising against the backdrop of political upheavals sweeping across South Asia beginning with Sri Lanka in 2022 followed by Bangladesh in 2024 marked a decisive break in the Himalayan nations democratic trajectoryAccording to the report of International Centre for Peace Studies ICPS over the past three years a clear pattern of youthled protests and uprisings often described as apolitical emerged in the extended region of Nepal including Sri Lanka Bangladesh and IndonesiaAt times these apolitical uprisings were seen to have been influenced or even facilitated by internal as well as external actors with vested interests However they often result in the creation of a political vacuum that is filled by individuals or groups with little or no prior experience in governance the report statedIronically the very objectives these movements claim to champion such as strengthening democracy and ensuring inclusive political participation are often undermined in the process While these movements may succeed in toppling governments through mass mobilisation they typically fail to offer a viable or structured alternative in the aftermath it notedOn September 8 the protests started in Kathmandu in response to the Nepalese governments decision to block 26 social media platforms including Facebook Instagram WhatsApp X and YouTube for failing to comply with a sevenday deadline to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology However the social media ban served only as a triggerThe protest quickly evolved into a broader movement demanding government accountability for widespread corruption growing inequality and the worsening living conditions that have forced many citizens to migrate abroad in search of a better life Protesters expressed anger over the stark contrast between the struggles of ordinary people and the lavish lifestyles of ruling elites Nepo Kids many of whom openly flaunt their wealth and assets on social media the report stressedAmid intense public and political pressure Nepals Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on September 10 Several highprofile leaders including Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak the Ministers in charge of Health Agriculture Water and Youth and Sports also stepped down ahead of Oli in the wake of the escalating crisisThe ICPS report emphasised that Sushila Karki appointed as Nepals interim Prime Minister in the wake of the GenZ revolt has a critical role to play She has a daunting challenge ahead to stabilise the country rebuild public trust in governance push for inclusive systemic change including better representation of women and marginalized communities in politics and prepare Nepal for the next elections scheduled to take place in March 2026 IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/nepal-interim-pm-karki-has-to-rebuild-public-trust-in-governance-639694.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 21:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-parliamentary-panel-reviews-abuses-against-children-at-religious-seminaries-639697.html Islamabad Sep 20 Pakistans Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights has reviewed disturbing reports of corporal punishment torture and sexual abuse against children at religious seminaries across provinces of Punjab Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa local media reported The meeting chaired by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri at Parliament House called for strong action to protect children from abuse at seminaries and schools declaring that no child should suffer in the name of educationHighlighting that the Pakistani authorities bear the foremost responsibility to protect children Senator Zehri expressed concern over the lack of proper registration financial transparency and monitoring of these institutionsShe demanded strict measures including regular inspections of madrasas mandatory parentteacher engagement teacher training on child protection and a ban on corporal punishment She also raised alarm over the low conviction rates in reported cases warning that without prosecution and deterrence the cycle of abuse would continue uncheckedSenator Aimal Wali Khan noted that many madrasas have become revenuegenerating enterprises rather than being integrated into the national education framework He urged the need for legislative measures to ensure transparency and bring seminaries under mainstream education boardsOther members suggested districtlevel monitoring and harmonised provincial laws to protect children from abuses Pakistans leading newspaper Dawn reportedReports suggest that the committee also reviewed a case at COMSATS University in Islamabad where a student was subjected to derogatory remarks about his financial background and deceased father during a class presentation in June Reportedly the matter was eventually reconciled with the instructor even gifting a laptop to the studentAsserting that such incidents reflected deeprooted problems in Pakistan Senator Zehri stressed that no student should face humiliation over financial circumstances which could cause lasting psychological harm She called on universities to foster compassion and respect recommend training for teachers and students in communication tolerance and mental health awarenessThe meeting also discussed the plight of Pakistani citizens imprisoned abroad Zehri demanded stronger action including countrywise data systematic case tracking and transparent reporting She urged the Pakistani ministries to formulate a coordinated national strategy with clear timelines covering legal aid consular support and rehabilitation for returnees IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/pakistan-parliamentary-panel-reviews-abuses-against-children-at-religious-seminaries-639697.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 22:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-awami-league-claims-10-000-new-millionaires-emerge-as-ordinary-people-swept-by-poverty-639698.html Dhaka Sep 20 Bangladeshs Awami League Party on Saturday highlighted that over 10000 new millionaires have emerged in just 810 months amid the countrys economic recession while ordinary people are being swept away in a tide of poverty under the Muhammad Yunusled interim government According to the party the economy of Bangladesh is currently in a severe recession with unemployment exceeding eight per cent and the poverty rate at nearly 28 per centThe party mentioned that hundreds of factories have shut down foreign investment is almost zero and 26 million people have lost their jobs with ordinary people struggling to cope with soaring prices of essential goods It stressed that in the postCovid period GDP growth has dropped to just 397 per centNever before has the country seen wealth grow in such a crisisbut banking data tells a different story According to Bangladesh Banks Banking Statistics Report in the past 810 months 10928 new millionaire accounts have been added As of June 2025 the total number of millionaire accounts has reached 127336 What is particularly concerning is that 87 per cent of the new millionaires are under the age of 30 and more than 2000 of them have not yet even completed their studies the Awami League statedRaising concerns the Awami League questioned who these millionaires are and how they are amassing such abnormal wealth while the lives of ordinary people are becoming increasingly unbearable in BangladeshThree million people have lost their jobs Foreign investment is nearly zero 10928 new millionaires in just 810 months Over 2000 millionaires have not yet finished their education This growing inequality and opaque wealth accumulation is heightening social concern Without vigilance regulatory intervention and transparent policies the gap between the ordinary population and a small wealthy elite will continue to widenpotentially leading to lasting social instability the party assertedEarlier this month the Awami League stated that Bangladesh is experiencing its most severe crisis in over a decade caused by Islamist militancy extremism economic collapse unemployment a breakdown of law and order and widespread unrest under the Yunus regime IANS https://dailyworld.in/international/bangladesh-awami-league-claims-10-000-new-millionaires-emerge-as-ordinary-people-swept-by-poverty-639698.html Sat, 20 Sep 2025 22:41:00 +0530