NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: US Presidentelect Donald Trump has met with Ron Dermer, a consultant to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to discuss the Middle East crisis and the US future actions on the matter, the Axios news portal reported on Tuesday, citing two Israeli officials and two US officials with knowledge of the meeting.

Dermer met with Trump in his Florida residence, Mar-a-Largo, on Sunday to pass messages from Netanyahu and brief the president-elect on Israel's plans in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. "One of the things the Israelis wanted to sort out with Trump is what are the issues he prefers to see solved before January 20 and what are the issues he prefers the Israelis to wait for him," a US official told the portal. The Israeli side reportedly wanted Trump's opinion on several issues, including post-war plans for Gaza, a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, and the normalization of Israeli-Saudi relations. The Biden administration has been notified of the meeting in advance, they added. Trump, who had already served as US president after the 2016 election, won the presidential election on November 5. 

He became the first politician in the United States since the 19th century to return to the White House after a four-year hiatus. All leading media outlets involved in vote counting, including the Associated Press, Fox News, CNN, NBC, ABC, and CBS, announced Trump's victory. Democratic candidate Kamala Harris addressed supporters and announced that she would concede, while incumbent US President Joe Biden spoke with Trump and congratulated him.

The Electoral College from the states must vote for candidates in accordance with the will of the voters on December 17, and the new Congress will certify the results of the vote on January 6. The inauguration will take place on January 20. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Alix Didier Fils-Aime was sworn in as Haiti's prime minister on Monday local time, The Haitian Times reported. 

In a speech at the inauguration ceremony, Fils-Aime vowed to "provide a comprehensive response to insecurity" and "organize uncontested elections." "Together, we will enable the country to have legitimate authorities capable of making decisions. The situation is chaotic, but nothing is impossible," he said. His predecessor Garry Conille, who served twice as prime minister, was dismissed by the Transitional Presidential Council, which was formed in April and is charged with selecting new political leaders and organizing elections in the Caribbean nation.

Haiti has been suffering from humanitarian and security crises exacerbated by surging gang violence. During the first three months of 2024, around 2,500 people were killed or injured as a result of gang violence. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: India has cautioned against “smokescreen” efforts towards a "mere tinkering" of the existing UN Security Council framework, saying this could indefinitely postpone significant elements, such as expansion in permanent membership and addressing under-representation of Asia, Africa and Latin America to a "very distant future".

These remarks were made by India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador P Harish at the annual UN General Assembly plenary on ‘Question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council’ on Monday.

He said that in spite of several decades of collective reiteration of the urgent need for the UNSC reform, it is “disheartening that we have had no results to show in this regard since 1965, when the Council was last expanded in the non-permanent category alone.”
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: US President-elect Donald Trump has tapped Florida Senator Marco Rubio as his Secretary of State and Congressman Mike Waltz as his National Security Advisor.

Rubio, 53, is considered to be a friend of India and has been an advocate of the India-US relationship, while Waltz, 50, is an old-India hand and has been co-chair of the Congressional Caucus for India and Indian Americans for years.

By picking Rubio and Waltz as his top diplomat and NSA guarantees a continuation of bi-partisan support and further strengthening of India-US relationship under the second Trump administration.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In Indonesia, Mount Lewotobi in  East Nusa Tenggara province erupted again today, spewing a column of ash up to 5,000 meters high and prompting the highest aviation alert. The Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre reported that the eruption occurred this morning. According to media reports, Mount Lewotobi is at the highest alert level, with a designated danger zone extending 7 kilometres from the crater.

A Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has been issued at the red level, the highest warning, which prohibits flights below 6,000 meters around the crater. Aircraft are also advised to be prepared for ash clouds, which could disrupt flight operations.

Mount Lewotobi erupted late Sunday night, resulting in 10 fatalities and injuries to 63. Hot clouds and volcanic materials destroyed hundreds of homes and buildings, triggering fires in the area and displacing over 4,000 residents. Standing at 1,584 meters, Mount Lewotobi is one of Indonesia’s 127 active volcanoes.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in her first press briefing since Tuesday's election blamed the 'global headwinds' for Democrats' loss in the Presidential elections. On being asked if US President Joe Biden felt any responsibility for Harris's decisive loss to President-elect Trump, or whether he had any regrets about his decision to seek reelection or to end his candidacy in late July.

"Biden takes responsibility for the loss," Pierre said that the disruption of the supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on several incumbent leaders around the world. "Despite all of the accomplishments that we were able to get done, there were global headwinds that because of the COVID-19 pandemic led to disruptions in the supply chain and it had a political toll on many incumbents around the world. If you look at what happened in 2024 globally, that's what you see," she said.

She did not elaborate, and said, "We'll be mindful and leave the political analysis to the pundits. They're going to dig in, and look under the hood to see what exactly happened. But, what we saw two nights ago, was not unusual to what we have seen from the incumbents around the world on the global stage. There is going to be a lot of post-mortem analysis of what happened in the coming days, weeks, even months. And so I am going to leave those questions to the election experts. That is certainly not my role today," she said. On being asked if Biden regrets anything from his rule, Pierre said that Biden was proud of everything his administration has done and he gave up the race and selected US Vice President Kamala Harris as the runner of the election.

"When the time came to pass the torch, the party came right behind Harris to support her. It was because she was the right person to do the job. Biden selected her as his running mate in 2020 because of this reason... The President is proud to leave the strongest economy for the next person who's coming for the President-elect... But, what you heard from Biden is that the struggle for the soul of America since our very founding crosses generations and is always ongoing. It is still important today," she said. Pierre said that Biden and Harris have accepted the election results, and one cannot re-write history.

"President Biden and Vice President Harris accepted the choice that the country has made. We cannot re-write history and we have to remember what happened in 2022. When we came out of the 2022 mid-terms, we saw successful mid-terms for any new administration from over 60 years. It was because of President's policies... those were popular with the American people," she said. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: A fishing boat sank off South Korea’s southern resort island of Jeju on Friday, leaving two people dead and 12 others missing, Yonhap news agency reported citing the country’s coast guard.

A distress call was sent to the coast guard at around 4:33 a.m. local time (1933 GMT Thursday) that the 129-ton vessel with 27 crew members aboard was sinking in waters about 24 km off Jeju’s Biyang island.

Of the crew members, including 16 South Koreans and 11 foreigners, 15 were rescued with two of them found in a state of cardiac arrest and pronounced dead later.

Rescuers were searching for the missing 12 sailors, including 10 South Koreans and two foreigners.

The fishing boat suddenly capsized and sank while transferring its catch to another vessel, according to the rescued crew members.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed his campaign manager, Susie Wiles, as his Chief of Staff, making her the first woman to hold this influential cabinet position, heading the White House executive office.
     
Mr Trump described it as a well-deserved honour to have Ms Susie as the first-ever female Chief of Staff in US history. The appointment marks the first of several expected staffing announcements as Trump prepares for his return to the White House on January 20.
     
The Chief of Staff serves as the gatekeeper for the President, the liaison to Congress and government departments, and plays a key role in steering policy decisions.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Amid reports of tension in Bangladesh's Chittagong following provocative social media posts, India on Thursday urged Dhaka to take action against "extremist" elements and ensure the safety of the country's Hindu community.

During a weekly media briefing here, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal condemned the alleged attack on the members of the Hindu community in Chittagong.

The tension was the result of "incendiary posts" on social media, he said.

"We have seen many videos circulating on social media. It is condemnable," Jaiswal said.

The MEA spokesperson underlined that it is Dhaka's "special responsibility" that the minorities be given security.

"In Chittagong, incendiary posts were made on social media. Those provocative things were related to the Hindu community. A disturbance happened and some members of the Hindu community were threatened and many properties were looted," he said.

"Extremist elements" are behind this and such things can lead to an increase in communal tension, Jaiswal told reporters.

He also said, "It is our request to the government there to control and take action against these elements and take strong measures to ensure the safety of people of the Hindu and other minority communities."

India on October 12 said it had noted with "serious concern" the reported attack on a Puja mandap and theft at a revered Kali temple in Bangladesh and urged Dhaka to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship.

To a query on a statement posted on the Awami League's verified social media handles in which Sheikh Hasina congratulated President-elect Donald Trump, with the words 'prime minister' in parenthesis affixed before her name, Jaiswal said, "What I have said before, you consider that our position."

"We have said from this place before that she is a former prime minister of Bangladesh, so that is where it stands," the MEA spokesperson said.

Hasina fled to India from Bangladesh on August 5 after being ousted from power following an unprecedented anti-government resistance.

To a query on a workshop being organised by Delhi-based think-tank Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), he shared details and the context of the event.

"As an important neighbouring country of India, developments in Myanmar are of interest to us and other stakeholders, including the academic community, think tanks and our business community," Jaiswal said.

On November 5-6, one particular workshop on Indian experience in constitutionalism and federalism was held, where "they invited stakeholders from various segments of the Myanmar society", he said.

"It is our understanding that such interactions, we hope, will contribute to deliberations on developing a Myanmar-led and Myanmar-owned solution to address the country's current challenges," the MEA spokesperson said.

"India remains on its part, a steadfast supporter of democracy, peace and stability in Myanmar," he added.

Jaiswal was also asked about the way forward after the recent disengagement of Indian and Chinese troops at two friction points in eastern Ladakh.

"Disengagement has moved forward, patrolling has commenced at both Depsang and Demchok. Patrolling has started at places as per the agreement. Some reports have come that there were some roadblocks in it. But those reports are not correct. I think, the (Indian) Army has also issued a clarification on this, that report is not correct," he said.

On India-US economic ties and the existing issues in it, Jaiswal said, "Talks are going on between the two countries and whatever issues are there in economic ties, both countries need to think deeply and find agreements and work will be done on it."

"We would want to have talks on the issues, so our ties become stronger," Jaiswal added.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has congratulated Donald Trump, a critic of the world organisation’s work, on his re-election as President of the United States and said the UN was ready to “work constructively” with his administration.

“I reaffirm my belief that the cooperation between the United States and the United Nations is an essential pillar of international relations”, he said in his message.

“The United Nations stands ready to work constructively with the incoming administration to address the dramatic challenges our world is facing”, he said.

He added, “I commend the people of the United States of America for their active participation in the democratic process”.

Trump, a sceptic of both multilateralism and climate change, pulled the US out of the Paris Climate Accord reached under the auspices of the UN, and the UNESCO.

Guterres’ Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric downplayed the differences of opinion between the Secretary-General and Trump and said that they “had very good relations”.

“The fact that they had different opinions about a number of issues was clear to all. I think the Secretary-General stated his opinions. The US Administration (of Trump) had its policies. It did not stop the Secretary-General from engaging with the United States government, just as all of the previous Secretary-Generals have”, Dujarric said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday to congratulate him on his "spectacular" victory, and said he looked forward to working together with him again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space and other sectors.

Official sources said Modi also congratulated Trump on the performance of his Republican Party in the Congressional elections, as both leaders affirmed to working together for world peace.

The warm personal camaraderie between the two leaders came through in the telephonic conversation as Trump said the "whole world loves Modi" and described India as a magnificent country and the prime minister as a magnificent man, they added.

Trump also said that he considered Modi and India as a true friend, noting that the Indian leader was one of the first world leaders he spoke to after his victory, the sources added.

In a post on X, Modi said, "Had a great conversation with my friend, President Donald Trump, congratulating him on his spectacular victory. Looking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space and several other sectors."

As Trump cruised to victory, Modi earlier in the day congratulated him on his "historic" presidential poll victory, and said he looks forward to renewing their collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership.

"Together, let's work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability and prosperity," he said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday congratulated President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory and called for China and the US to find the right way to manage the differences by strengthening dialogue and communication.

Trump won the US presidential election for a second term on Wednesday in one of the most remarkable comebacks in American electoral history.

Xi, in his congratulatory message to Trump, called for the two countries to strengthen dialogue and communication, properly manage differences and expand mutually beneficial cooperation, official media reports here said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Shortly after conceding the presidential race to Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris urged supporters to accept the election results and pledged to ensure a peaceful transfer of power to the Republican leader.

In an emotional concession speech at her alma mater Howard University, 60-year-old Harris said the “light of America’s promise will always burn bright” and vowed to keep up the “fight” that fuelled her campaign.

“My heart is full today — full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, full of love for our country, and full of resolve,” she said in an attempt to lift the spirits of her supporters.

“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for. But hear me when I say, the light of America’s promise will always burn bright,” she added.

“I know folks are feeling and experiencing a range of emotions right now. I get it. But we must accept the results of this election,” she said, adding that a fundamental principle of democracy is to accept the election outcomes.

Harris said she spoke to President-elect Trump and congratulated him on his victory.

“I told Trump that we will help him and his team in their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transition of power,” she said.

“In our nation, we owe loyalty not to a president or a party but to the constitution of the United States,” she added.

“While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fuelled this campaign,” Harris said.

Harris also called on her supporters not to give up their fights to protect the country’s foundational principles.

”Sometimes the fight takes a while, but that does not mean we will not win; the important thing is don’t ever give up,” she said.

In the election, 78-year-old Trump pulled off an incredible comeback wresting 291 electoral college votes as against Harris’ 223 in a fierce contest that almost left the Americans with two world views.

While Harris projected herself as an “agent of change”, Trump constructed a campaign on people’s concerns over economy and immigration.

“The fight for freedom, opportunity, for fairness and dignity of all people will continue,” Harris said in her address.

The vice president said she will never give up the fight for democracy, rule of law and for equal justice.

“The fight for our freedom will take hard work, but as I always say we like hard work; the fight for our country is always worth it,” she said.

“I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time, but for the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case,” she added.

The mood at the rally was incredibly sombre. The crowd of what appeared to number several thousand was very quiet. Harris campaign aides stood to one side of the stage as she spoke and exchanged hugs, including Jen O’Malley Dillon, David Plouffe, and Brian Fallon.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and DC Mayor Muriel Bowser were seen conversing in the crowd. Several of Harris’s younger family members were wiping away tears as they left the rally.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The number of people who have died in the flash floods that devastated parts of eastern Spain recently stands at 217, with 89 more still missing, according to data published by the Integrated Data Center (CID) for the incident.

Around 211 of the victims are in the region of Valencia, five in neighbouring Castilla-La Mancha, and one in Andalusia, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Spanish government said on Wednesday that 7,987 troops are now working in the affected area, with 1,639 vehicles, including 12 helicopters and 18 boats.

The forces are also supported by around 5,000 National Police and Civil Guards, along with other rescue services including fire brigades from other parts of the country.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Donald Trump campaign says President Joe Biden has called to congratulate the president-elect on his victory and invited him to the White House to discuss transitioning administrations, media reports said on Thursday.

"President Donald Trump looks forward to the meeting, which will take place shortly, and very much appreciated the call," Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement to the BBC. It's important to note that Donald Trump did not extend this invitation to Biden after losing the 2020 presidential election, in a departure from tradition, the BBC reports said. 

Presidents usually invite the incoming administration to the White House, greet them on the steps of the North Portico, and then ride with them to the US Capitol for the inauguration ceremony which Trump did not attend in 2021. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday won the US presidency for a second term in one of the greatest political comebacks in American history, cruising past his Democratic rival Kamala Harris in a bitterly fought election.

The 78-year-old Republican leader cleared the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the presidency by securing a victory in the key battleground state of Wisconsin.

According to races called by the Associated Press up to 4 pm (IST), 277 electoral votes had gone to Republican candidate Trump and 224 to Democratic Party's Harris.

Trump addressed his supporters at West Palm Beach in Florida, declaring victory and promising a "golden age of America".

"This will be the golden age of America. America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate," Trump declared with his family by his side amid cheers of his jubilant supporters.

"This is a magnificent victory for the American people. This was a movement like nobody's ever seen before, and frankly, this was, I believe, the greatest political movement of all time. There's never been anything like this in this country, and maybe beyond," Trump said.

"And now it's going to reach a new level of importance because we're going to help our country heal. We'll help our country...we have a country that needs help, and it needs help very badly," he said.

"We are going to fix our borders. We are going to fix everything about our country. And we made history for a reason tonight, and the reason is going to be just that we overcame obstacles that nobody thought possible, and it is now clear that we've achieved the most incredible political thing."

Trump also promised to usher in a "golden" period in the US.

"I want to thank the American people for the extraordinary honour of being elected your 47th president and your 45th president," he said. "I will fight for you, for your family and your future."

"Every single day, I will be fighting for you and with every breath in my body, I will not rest until we have delivered the strong, safe and prosperous America that our children deserve and that you deserve. This will truly be the golden age of America," he added.

The victory by Trump is largely being seen as a remarkable comeback after he lost the 2020 presidential election to Joe Biden which appeared to be the end of his political career.

Trump challenged the election results and even indirectly urged his supporters to march on the US Capitol that reportedly triggered the violent attacks and clashes inside the seat of American democracy sending shockwaves across the globe.

In the following months, Trump unsuccessfully challenged the results in court.

In effect, he became the first former president to get the nomination for the top office on the planet after being convicted of a felony.

Trump won the battleground states of Pennsylvania, Georgia and North Carolina and Wisconsin.

Counting of votes is still underway in some other battleground states of Arizona, Michigan and Nevada.

As a clear trend in the counting of votes emerged earlier, Harris cancelled an election watch party in her alma mater Howard University.

The results are a big disappointment for Harris. She joined the race after President Biden dropped out from his reelection campaign in July, weeks after he came under severe scrutiny following his incoherent performance at a televised debate with Republican nominee Donald Trump.

The nomination itself was historic as she became the first woman of colour in the US to be fielded by a major party in the presidential race.

In her address after formally accepting the nomination, Harris vowed to "chart a new way forward" far devoid of bitterness, cynicism and divisive politics.

The US has 50 states and most of them vote for the same party in every election except the swing states.

Generally, there is not much surprise over the candidates picking up victories in states other than the pivotal battleground ones. Overall, a total of 538 electoral college votes are up for grabs.

The swing states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, known as part of the Rust Belt, have been traditionally the strongholds of the Democratic Party.

Earlier, exit polls showed the state of democracy, the shape of the economy and abortion are the most important issues for American voters in the election.

Almost six in 10 people ranked the state of democracy as their number one issue, according to exit polls released by CBS News.

It was followed by abortion as five per cent of the voters felt it was an important issue for them. Over one in 10 chose the economy as a priority issue.

An exit poll by CNN said roughly three-quarters of the electorate holds a negative view of the way things are going in the US today.

Only about one-quarter call themselves enthusiastic or satisfied with the state of the nation, with more than four in 10 dissatisfied and roughly three in 10 saying they are angry, according to the poll.

Voters remain generally optimistic, with more than 6 in 10 saying that America’s best days are in the future, and only about one-third that they're already in the past, the CNN poll found.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Indian American Congressman Shri Thanedar was re-elected from the thirteenth Congressional district of Michigan.

He defeated his Republican rival Martell Bivings by a margin of over 35 percentage points as he was re-elected for the second term.

In a statement he credited his victory to his record of delivering strong constituent services, standing up for working families, fighting for unions, and always fighting for reproductive freedom.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Suhas Subramanyam created history by becoming the first Indian American to be elected from Virginia and the entire East Coast.

Running for the US House of Representatives from the 10th Congressional District of Virginia, a Democratic stronghold, Subramanyam defeated Mike Clancy of the Republican Party.

He is currently a Virginia State Senator.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sacked his defence minister, Yoav Gallant, on Tuesday, saying he had no trust in him over the management of Israel's ongoing military operations.

Netanyahu appointed Foreign Minister Israel Katz to succeed Gallant as defence minister, while Gideon Saar becomes the new foreign minister, Netanyahu's office said in a statement.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Former British Indian home secretary Priti Patel has been chosen by the newly elected Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch as her shadow foreign secretary to join her top team on the Opposition benches in the House of Commons on Tuesday.

Gujarati-origin Patel, 52, was one of the early contenders who went head-to-head in the race to replace Rishi Sunak as Tory chief and Leader of the Opposition.

With two other opponents in the election, Robert Jenrick and Mel Stride appointed shadow justice secretary and shadow chancellor respectively, Badenoch’s picks for her frontbench is being seen as an attempt to unite a divided Conservative Party.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern coast on Tuesday, initiating a series of weapons demonstrations just hours before the US presidential election. This comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

The South Korean military confirmed the launches but did not provide specific details on the number or distance. Japan, however, reported no immediate damage from the missiles, which are believed to have landed at sea. These missile tests follow North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's recent supervision of an intercontinental ballistic missile flight test, intended to reach the US mainland.

In response, the US conducted a military exercise, deploying a B-1B bomber in drills with South Korea and Japan. North Korean officials are expected to increase military displays to attract Washington's attention during the US election period. Meanwhile, North Korea's alliance with Russia, involving munitions and troops, has raised concerns of potential destabilization globally.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In Moldova, Pro-Western President Maia Sandu has been re-elected for a second term. Sandu defeated her opponent, Alexandr Stoianoglo, from the pro-Russian Party of Socialists, by over 10 percentage points. With more than 99 percent of the ballots counted, Sandu received 55.26 percent of the vote.

The elections were marred by several incidents, including reported bomb threats at four polling stations in the diaspora, where Sandu received significant support. However, the election revealed public grievances, as Sandu’s overall vote increased largely due to the backing of Moldovans abroad. She lost by a narrow margin within Moldova.

US President Joe Biden congratulated Sandu on her victory, saying Russia had failed to undermine Moldova’s democratic institutions and election processes. While, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova denounced the election as the “most undemocratic” in the country’s post-Soviet history.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The United States will go to polls today to elect a new President. Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump and Democratic candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris are locked in a tough fight for the top post.

As the fight reaches its crescendo with the big election day just a few hours away, many political observers billed the unpredictable race for the 47th President of the US as the most consequential one in decades while appearing to project a grim picture for the country’s future under a Trump presidency.

In her final days of campaign, Vice President Harris focused on a message of hope, unity, optimism and women rights whereas Trump remained fiercely combative in targeting his Democratic rival and even suggested that he may not accept the election outcome in case of a defeat.

Overall, it has been a roller-coaster ride for both 60-year-old Harris and 78-year-old Trump.

Trump received his party’s nomination in March and formally at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in July — in a historic comeback after remaining in political wilderness for months following several court cases.

In effect, he became the first former president to get the nomination for the top office on the planet after being convicted of a felony.

“Trump has made one of the biggest political comebacks since Richard Nixon’s in terms of the political struggles that he has had in the last four years,” Communication Strategist Anang Mittal said.

Just days ahead of the RNC, Trump was shot at during a rally in Pennsylvania. He suffered an upper ear injury. Minutes later, a bleeding Trump raised his fist in defiance, images that drew a lot of emotional support from his die-hard supporters.

For Harris too, it has been a dramatic ride after Biden ended his re-election campaign in July, nearly weeks after he came under severe scrutiny following his incoherent performance at a televised debate with Trump.

While dropping out from the race, Biden, 81, endorsed Harris to succeed him as the Democratic candidate.

Finally in August, the Democratic National Convention formally nominated Harris as the party’s candidate for the presidential election.

The presidential election will be a chance to “move past the bitterness, cynicism and divisive battles of the past”, she said in a powerful speech at the Convention.

If Harris wins, she will become the first woman, first Black woman and first person of South Asian descent to become the US President.

In the overall campaign, Harris has been projecting the election as the one to protect the country’s fundamental freedoms, safeguard constitutional values and ensure women’s rights.

On his part, Trump has maintained his signature aggressive rhetoric and promising to rebuild the economy and rid the US from illegal immigrants.

However, there has been strong criticism of the Republican leader’s roadmap to repair the economy.

"Donald Trump is offering a vision of crony rentier capitalism that has enticed many captains of industry and finance,” said Joseph E Stiglitz, a Nobel laureate economist, in a column in Project Syndicate.

"In catering to their wishes for more tax cuts and less regulation, he would make most Americans’ lives poorer, harder, and shorter,” he said.

With election day just a few hours away, there is no clarity on who has a better chance of winning the race.

"The elections are very close. They (the outcome) may change on the basis of a few thousands votes here or there. I think the big issue will be voter turnout tomorrow. That will determine the outcome in certain swing states,” said Executive Director of the US chapter of Observer Research Foundation Dhruva Jaishankar.

Kapil Sharma, a non-resident senior fellow at Atlantic Council’s Middle East Programmes, also echoed similar views.

“This election is probably one of the closest elections that I can remember. I have been working in Washington for over 30 years and I don’t recall an election being this tight,” he said.

More than 78 million Americans have already cast their votes as of Sunday, according to the University of Florida’s Election Lab that tracks early and mail-in voting across the US.

On 6th of January, next year, a joint session of Congress counts the electoral votes. If a candidate reaches 270 votes, they are declared the President-elect, even if they lose the national popular vote. The inauguration occurs on 20th of January, marking the start of their four-year term in office.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Over a thousand Canadian Hindus assembled outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada, on Monday evening (local time) to protest against the repeated attacks on Hindu temples in the country, a day after the temple was attacked by Khalistani extremists.

The organisers of the solidarity rally pressed Canadian politicians and law enforcement agencies to not give further support to Khalistanis.

The details were shared by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) on social media platform X.

The CoHNA highlighted the multiple attacks on Hindu temples across Canada during the Diwali weekend and called to stop the "Hinduphobia" in the country.

In a post on X, the CoHNA said: "Over a thousand #CanadianHindus have gathered in Brampton to protest against the increasingly brazen attacks on Hindu Temples. Yesterday, during the sacred #Diwali weekend, Canadian Hindu temples, coast to coast, came under attack. We ask Canada to stop this #Hinduphobia now @JustinTrudeau@PierrePoilievre@MaximeBernier@CoHNAOfficial@kushal_mehra@ShawnBinda."

On Sunday, an Indian consular camp at the Hindu Sabha Temple witnessed a "violent disruption" in Brampton, near Toronto.

Following the attacks, the Hindu Canadian Foundation, a non-profit organisation working for the Hindu community in Canada, shared a video of the attack on the temple and said that the Khalistani terrorists attacked children and women.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the "deliberate attack" and said that "cowardly attempts to intimidate" Indian diplomats were appalling and New Delhi expects Canadian authorities to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.

"I strongly condemn the deliberate attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. Equally appalling are the cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats. Such acts of violence will never weaken India's resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law," PM Modi said on X.

The strong statement by PM Modi came hours after the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario, on Monday.

"We call on the Government of Canada to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks. We also expect that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted. We remain deeply concerned about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to media queries regarding violence in Brampton.

"The outreach of our Consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence," he added.

India has repeatedly expressed its deep concern about extremism and the culture of violence and anti-India activities in Canada and has sought action against these activities.

The Indian High Commission in Canada condemned the "violent disruption" by 'anti-India' elements outside a consular camp.

The High Commission also said that any further events will be organised "contingent on security arrangements" made by the local authorities.

There has been a string of similar incidents documented in recent years, underscoring a distressing trend of religious intolerance in Canada.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]:In Indonesia, at least 10 people lost their lives after a series of volcanic eruptions took place in the eastern part of the country, spewing explosive plumes of lava and ash on surrounding villages and burning down several houses. Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation said, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, located in the southeastern part of Flores island, erupted last night, triggering more than a dozen earthquakes and forcing authorities to evacuate several nearby villages. The government warned that more earthquakes could strike the region. The eruption caused damage in seven villages, home to ten thousand people, many of whom fled to other villages. The authorities warned residents to stay more than seven kilometres away from the volcano.

Indonesia’s thousands of islands are situated along the so-called Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates clash under the surface of the Pacific Ocean, causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The nation’s volcanoes are some of the most active in the world and have caused some of the deadliest eruptions in history. More than 20 people were killed last year when Mount Merapi erupted in Sumatra. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: India condemned the acts of violence perpetrated by extremists and separatists at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario Canada yesterday. 

"The country has expressed deep concern about the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada... External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has asked the Canadian government to ensure that all places of worship are protected from such attacks. He said, India also expects that those indulging in violence will be prosecuted. 

Mr Jaiswal said the outreach of Indian Consular officers to provide services to Indians and Canadian citizens alike will not be deterred by intimidation, harassment and violence.

Earlier, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton by alleged Khalistani extremists and said that every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely.

Taking to X, Trudeau thanked the local authorities for the swift response to protect the community and probe this incident.

"The acts of violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today are unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice their faith freely and safely. Thank you to the Peel Regional Police for swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident," Trudeau said in a post on X on Monday.

Meanwhile, the High Commission of India in Ottawa also issued a strong statement on Monday condemning the recent attack on Brampton's Hindu Sabha temple by "anti-India" elements.

This incident disrupted a consular event co-organised by the Hindu Sabha Mandir and the Indian consulate.

In its statement, the High Commission remarked, “We have seen violent disruption today (November 3), orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, near Toronto.”

Peel Regional Police said on X Sunday afternoon that they were aware of the protest taking place at the Hindu Sabha Mandir, and had increased its presence at the temple to maintain public order and safety.

"We respect the right to protest in a peaceful and safe manner but will not tolerate violence and criminal acts," Chief Nishan Duraiappah posted on X Sunday after the videos began circulating.

"Those that do participate in this activity will be pursued, arrested and charged."

Peel police told CBC Toronto no arrests were made at the temple Sunday.

Police did not provide further details about the social media videos, what happened or whether any complaints were filed.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown condemned the violence in a post on X Sunday afternoon, saying those responsible should be punished to the greatest extent of the law.

"I am disappointed to hear about acts of violence outside of the Hindu Sabha," he said."Religious freedom is a foundational value in Canada. Everyone should feel safe in their place of worship."

The recent attack on the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton witnessed widespread condemnation by Canadian politicians, including opposition leader Pierre Poilievre.

"Completely unacceptable to see violence targeting worshippers at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton today. All Canadians should be free to practice their faith in peace. Conservatives condemn this violence unequivocally. I will unite our people and end the chaos," Poilievre said on X.

Premier Doug Ford praised police for their “quick response,” adding that the incident is “completely unacceptable and must be condemned.

"No one should feel unsafe at their place of worship,” he wrote on X.

The Indian High Commission remarked, “We have seen violent disruption today (November 3), orchestrated by anti-India elements outside the consular camp co-organised with the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, near Toronto.”

The statement further added, "We also remain very concerned for the safety of applicants, including Indian nationals, on whose demand such events are organised in the first place. Despite these efforts by anti-India elements, our Consulate was able to issue more than 1000 life certificates to the Indian and Canadian applicants..."

The relations between India and Canada came under severe strain following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations in September last year of a "potential" involvement of Indian agents in Khalistan extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing.

New Delhi rejected Trudeau's charges as "absurd".

India has been maintaining that the main issue between the two countries is that of Canada giving space to pro-Khalistan elements operating from Canadian soil with impunity.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Former US president Donald Trump is 'clearly the better choice,' as compared to his Democratic rival Vice President Kamala Harris, former US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley has said.

Haley urged undecided voters to look at both candidates’ policy proposals, which she said clearly show Trump as the better option in a Wall Street Journal op-ed published two days before Election Day.

"I don't agree with Trump 100 per cent of the time. But I do agree with him most of the time, and I disagree with Harris nearly all the time. That makes this an easy call. Here are the facts most relevant to me," the former South Carolina governor wrote in an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal on Sunday.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]:  External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday formally inaugurated the new Indian consulate in Brisbane, and said it will contribute to strengthening India’s ties with Queensland state.

In a post on X, the EAM said he also met with Jeannette Young, the Governor of Queensland who attended the inauguration. “Delighted to formally inaugurate new Consulate General of India in Brisbane today. “It will contribute to strengthening India’s ties with Queensland state, promoting trade, fostering educational linkages and serving the diaspora. “Thank H.E Dr. Jeannette Young, Governor of Queensland and Ministers @Ros_Bates_MP and @FionaSimpsonMP for joining the inauguration ceremony.” Later, he held a meeting with the Queensland governor Jeannette Young and discussed ways to strengthen the economic and trade cooperation with India. 

“Pleased to meet H.E Dr. Jeannette Young, Governor of Queensland, in Brisbane today. “Discussed opportunities and ways to strengthen economic, trade and investment cooperation with the Queensland state.” The EAM also offered tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. “Offered my tribute this morning to Mahatma Gandhi at Roma Street Parklands in Brisbane. “His message of peace and harmony resonate through the world.” 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The US will vote tomorrow to elect its 47th President in a fierce race between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic leader Kamala Harris. The election is expected to be one of the closest contests for the White House in decades. Both candidates have left no stone unturned to win over voters, particularly in key swing states. To win the election, a candidate needs 270 electoral college votes.

The latest opinion polls indicate that the outcome will be decided by results in seven battleground states: Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. Republican candidate and former President Trump rallied in Kinston, North Carolina, and targeted his opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, by saying that she has no vision, no ideas, and no solutions and that her only message is blaming him for various issues.

On the other hand, Democratic presidential candidate Harris vowed to end the ongoing war in Gaza, bring home hostages, and ensure Israel’s security along with the Palestinian people’s right to dignity and self-determination. She made these remarks while addressing an election rally in Michigan. The remarks by Harris came at a rally in Michigan just days before the US presidential elections. During her rally, Harris also emphasized the need for a new generation of leadership in America, vowing to fight for the people and make healthcare a right, not a privilege.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The detention of Russian journalists at a US airport is a violation of the US obligations in the field of freedom of speech, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday. 

Earlier in the day, Zakharova said that the US authorities had not informed the Russian Embassy about the detention of Russian journalists who came to cover the presidential elections in the country. This happened on Tuesday night, the journalists were going there "not incognito," but "in full compliance with the documents issued." 

"We regard what happened as yet another gross violation by Washington of its obligations in the area of ensuring freedom of access to information and media pluralism. The fact that Russian journalists notified the US authorities of their intentions in advance and received official permission to carry out the editorial assignment testifies to the demonstrative nature of this action," Zakharova said in a statement. Russia will not leave the detention of Russian journalists at the US airport without a response, the diplomat said, adding that such actions by the US are fully consistent with the logic of the current administration’s declared global campaign against Russian media and journalists, which directly contradicts not only the US’s international obligations, but also the provisions of its own constitution.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: A fire erupted at the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness early Wednesday morning, necessitating the hospitalization of two individuals due to smoke inhalation, according to Cumbria Constabulary. Fortunately, authorities confirmed that there is no risk of nuclear contamination.

Video footage circulating on social media captured dramatic scenes of flames and thick black smoke engulfing the Devonshire Dock Hall, while alarms echoed through the area. Local resident Donna Butler described the smoke as intense and alarming.

The shipyard, renowned for constructing nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Navy, including future replacements for the UK's nuclear missile carriers, advised nearby residents to stay inside with windows and doors closed as a precaution.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The disengagement process between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh's Depsang and Demchok areas is in its final stage, Defence sources said here on Tuesday. 

Official sources on October 25 said that the disengagement process would be completed by the 28th to 29th of this month and the patrolling by the Indian and Chinese troops will resume on October 30. As a part of the process, both the armies have also dismantled the temporary tents and structures, sources said. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on October 20 had said that an agreement was reached on the patrolling arrangement between the two countries, paving the way for the withdrawal of troops of both India and China and restoration of the situation of April 2020. After this, the process of withdrawal of troops started on October 22. 

On October 26, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian at a briefing said that the disengagement process between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh is “going on smoothly”, in keeping with the agreements reached between the two sides. It may be mentioned that India and China reached an agreement on patrolling along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, ending the over four-year-long military standoff. The agreement was arrived at only for the two friction points of Depsang and Demchok, and "talks are still underway" for other areas, sources had said. 

After the disengagement, the areas and patrolling status are expected to be moved back to the pre-April 2020 level. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In the U.S.A., The White House hosted a Diwali celebration, honouring Indian Americans contributions to the India-US bond.  In a social media post, The US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti praised the event and highlighted the significance of Diwali and Indian Americans invaluable contributions.
    
In a historic move, New York City schools will close on November 1 to observe the Hindu festival, Diwali. This marks the first time the city’s schools have recognised the holiday. The Mayor of New York City Mr. Eric Adams made this announcement for fulfilling a long-standing request from community leaders. The decision allows students to celebrate without the pressure of attending school.
      
Recently, the American First Lady, Jill Biden, and President Joe Biden also hosted a Diwali celebration at the White House on October 28, inviting Indian Americans from across the United States to attend. This was the couple’s last Diwali celebration as President and First Lady. Over the years, the Bidens’ Diwali celebration has added a unique touch to this luminous tradition.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In a major setback to China’s BRI, Brazil has decided against joining Beijing’s multi-billion-dollar initiative becoming the second country after India in the BRICS bloc not to endorse the mega project.

Brazil, headed by President Lula da Silva, will not join the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and instead seek alternative ways to collaborate with Chinese investors, Celso Amorim, special presidential adviser for international affairs, said on Monday.

Brazil wants to “take the relationship with China to a new level, without having to sign an accession contract”, he told Brazilian newspaper O Globo.

“We are not entering into a treaty,” Amorim said, explaining that Brazil does not want to take Chinese infrastructure and trade projects as “an insurance policy”.
     
According to Amorim, the aim is to use some of the Belt and Road framework to find “synergy” between Brazilian infrastructure projects and the investment funds associated with the initiative, without necessarily formally joining the group, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post quoted him as saying.
     
The Chinese “call it the belt [and road] … and they can give whatever names they want, but what matters is that there are projects that Brazil has defined as a priority and that may or may not be accepted [by Beijing]”, Amorim said.
     
The decision contradicts China’s plans to make Brazil’s joining of the initiative a centrepiece of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Brasilia on November 20, the Post reported.
     
Officials from Brazil’s economy and foreign affairs ministries recently voiced opposition to the idea, it said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Four agricultural workers were killed and eight others injured in a collision between a pest-control spraying plane and a small auto in eastern Sudan's Gedaref State, a local official said on Sunday. 

The incident occurred on Friday when a pestcontrol spraying plane was landing in an agricultural area while "its captain was surprised by the entry of a tuk-tuk, a small tricycle auto, onto the runway," Gedaref State's acting Minister of Agriculture, Ammar Suleiman, told Xinhua. 

One of the injured was in critical condition and had been transferred to Kassala Hospital in the neighboring state for treatment, the minister said. The plane's three crew members survived the incident, while the plane sustained damage on the wing and propeller, Suleiman said, adding all casualties were from the tuk-tuk, which was carrying 15 people at the time of the accident. Gedaref State is currently embracing the beginning of summer crops harvest, most notably the sesame crop. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In a warning sign for the Democrats, Indian-Americans’ attachment to the party is declining in the US while the share of Republican identifiers held steady.
     
A new survey, the "2024 Indian-American Attitudes," conducted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in partnership with the research and analytics firm YouGov, says Indian-Americans remain solidly behind the Democratic Party but a modest uptick is seen in support for Republican candidates and former president Donald Trump.
     
The analysis is based on a nationally representative online survey of 714 Indian-American citizens between September 18 and October 15. The survey has an overall margin of error of +/- 3.7 per cent.
     
According to the survey, 61 per cent of registered Indian-American voter respondents plan to vote for Harris while 32 per cent intend to vote for Trump.
     
It said a modest increase in the share of respondents willing to vote for Trump had been seen since 2020.
     
On the other hand, 67 per cent of Indian-American women intend to vote for Harris while 53 per cent of men say they plan to vote for Harris.
     
Twenty-two per cent of women intend to vote for Trump while 39 per cent of men plan to cast their ballots for him. This gender gap appears starkest with younger voters, according to the survey.
     
There are more than 5.2 million people of Indian origin residing in the United States.
     
Indian-Americans are now the second-largest immigrant group in the United States and have emerged as an important political actor thanks to the community’s rapid demographic growth, the close margins in modern presidential elections, and the diaspora’s remarkable professional success.
     
Abortion and reproductive rights are a highly salient issue for Indian Americans this election year, ranking as their second-most-important policy concern (after inflation/prices and tied with the economy and jobs).
     
Democrats and women are especially motivated by abortion this election cycle, the report said.
     
"Although Indian-Americans hold a dim view of many prominent Republican leaders, the party’s disadvantage with Indian-Americans goes beyond personalities," the report suggested.
     
It said the Republican Party was out of sync with multiple policy positions held by members of the Indian-American community.
     
“When Democrats are asked why they do not identify as Republicans, they cite the latter’s intolerance of minorities, its stance on abortion, and ties to Christian evangelicalism above all,” it said.
     

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Following Japan's general election on Sunday, the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its partner Komeito fell short of the majority threshold, bringing political uncertainty to an economy that is already facing an array of challenges. The LDP and Komeito got a total of 215 of the 465 seats in the powerful chamber of parliament, below the 233 seats needed for the majority. The LDP alone won 191 seats, much less than the 247 seats it held prior to the election. 

In contrast, the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party significantly increased its representation, rising from 98 seats before the election to 148 seats. The result is largely in line with media forecasts as public outrage over the LDP's funding scandal persisted. The last time the coalition lost a majority was in 2009. Following the poor showing, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced plans to seek cooperation from other parties with whom his administration shares policy alignment, aiming to stabilize his government, according to public broadcaster NHK. A total of 1,344 candidates ran in the country's 50th House of Representatives election, more than the 1,051 in the last such election in 2021. 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: At least 19 people have been killed in gang clashes in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero, said Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch.

Garcia Harfuch stated in a press conference that at least three clashes occurred, resulting in the deaths of 17 individuals involved, Xinhua news agency reported.

"There were multiple attacks against military personnel. The result is 17 attackers killed, 11 detained, two municipal officers killed, and four wounded. We are investigating the incidents," he said.

Investigators will trace the origins of the weapons used by the armed group in their attacks, said Garcia Harfuch.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Emergency services responded to a fatal plane crash in Sydney's southwest on Saturday, police in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) said.

Two light planes were understood to have collided and crashed before midday in Sydney's outer southwest.

Members of the public were urged to avoid the area and no further information was available at this stage, NSW Police said.

NSW Police, Fire and Rescue and NSW Ambulance were attending the scene, with at least two firetrucks and several ambulances present, Xinhua news agency reported.

An investigation into the cause of the crash would be undertaken by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, NSW Police said.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Israel pounded Iran with a series of airstrikes early Saturday, saying it was targeting military sites in retaliation for the barrage of ballistic missiles the Islamic Republic fired upon Israel earlier this month.    Explosions could be heard in the Iranian capital, Tehran, though the Islamic Republic insisted they caused only “limited damage.”

The attack risks pushing the archenemies closer to all-out war at a time of spiraling violence across the Middle East, where militant groups backed by Iran — including Hamas in Gaza, and Hezbollah in Lebanon — are already at war with Israel.

It also marked the first time Israel's military has openly attacked Iran, which hasn't faced a sustained barrage of fire from a foreign enemy since its 1980s war with Iraq.

Israel's hourslong attack ended just before sunrise in Tehran, with the Israeli military saying it targeted “missile manufacturing facilities used to produce the missiles that Iran fired at the state of Israel over the last year.” It also said it hit surface-to-air missile sties and “additional Iranian aerial capabilities.”

Israel offered no initial damage assessment.

Initially, nuclear facilities and oil installations all had been seen as possible targets for Israel's response to Iran's Oct. 1 attack, but in mid-October the Biden administration believed it had won assurances from Israel that it would not hit such targets, which would be a more severe escalation.

“The regime in Iran and its proxies in the region have been relentlessly attacking Israel since Oct. 7 … including direct attacks from Iranian soil,” Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a prerecorded video statement early Saturday. “Like every other sovereign country in the world, the state of Israel has the right and the duty to respond.”

The United States warned against further retaliation, indicating that the overnight strikes should end the direct exchange of fire between the Israel and Iran.

Iran's military said the strikes targeted military bases in Ilam, Khuzestan and Tehran provinces and caused “limited damage,” without elaborating.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The US hired a chartered flight to deport Indian nationals who were staying in the country illegally, the Department of Homeland Security has said, noting that this has been done in cooperation with the Indian government.

The charter flight was sent to India on October 22, the department said on Friday.

“Indian nationals without a legal basis to remain in the United States are subject to swift removal, and intending migrants should not fall for the lies of smugglers who proclaim otherwise,” said Kristie A. Canegallo, a senior official performing the duties of Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security.

The statement said the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continues to enforce US immigration laws and deliver tough consequences for those who enter unlawfully and encourages the use of lawful pathways.

Since June 2024, when the Securing the Border Presidential Proclamation and accompanying Interim Final Rule went into effect, encounters between ports of entry along the southwest border of the US have decreased by 55 per cent.

In fiscal year 2024, the DHS removed or returned over 160,000 individuals and operated more than 495 international repatriation flights to more than 145 countries, including India, the statement said.

It said the department regularly engaged with foreign governments throughout the hemisphere and around the world to accept repatriations of their nationals without a legal basis to remain in the US.

This was one tool among many that the US used to reduce irregular migration, promote the use of safe, lawful and orderly pathways, and hold transnational criminal networks accountable for smuggling and exploitation of vulnerable people, it said.

Over the last year, DHS has removed individuals from a range of countries worldwide, including Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Egypt, Mauritania, Senegal, Uzbekistan, China, and India.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The United States and Qatar have announced the revival of Gaza ceasefire negotiations, marking a potential turning point in diplomatic efforts following the recent death of Hamas’ Yahya Sinwar. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his eleventh regional visit since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, revealed that mediators are exploring fresh approaches after previous US-led initiatives stalled.

Speaking after discussions with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Blinken outlined their joint vision for a resolution that would enable Israeli withdrawal, prevent Hamas’s reconstitution, and support Palestinian reconstruction. The talks, scheduled to resume “in the coming days” in Doha, aim to address both the ongoing conflict and the release of hostages held in Gaza.

The diplomatic landscape has shifted significantly since US President Biden’s May 31 proposal for a temporary ceasefire and hostage release. Previous negotiations faced obstacles, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s requirement for maintaining Israeli military presence along the Gaza-Egypt border.

Qatar’s renewed engagement with Hamas following Sinwar’s death has opened new channels for dialogue. “We had some meetings with them in the last couple of days,” the Qatari Prime Minister confirmed, noting Egypt’s concurrent discussions with the militant group. Hamas is reportedly considering establishing a Doha-based leadership committee rather than appointing a single successor to Sinwar.

Looking ahead, Blinken announced an additional $135 million in Palestinian aid, bringing total US assistance since the war’s onset to $1.2 billion. The State Department is also seeking to develop comprehensive plans for Gaza’s reconstruction and governance, viewing these as crucial elements for achieving lasting peace.

The renewed diplomatic push comes as US elections approach within two weeks, adding urgency to efforts to resolve a conflict that has dominated international attention since Hamas’s October 7 attack and Israel’s subsequent military response.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: BRICS countries are committed to fostering a more democratic and multipolar world order, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, during his press conference on the last day of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan.

Putin noted on Thursday that the Kazan Declaration, endorsed at the summit, outlines a positive agenda for the future, the Kremlin reported.

"It is important that the declaration reaffirms the commitment of all our states to building a more democratic, inclusive, and multipolar world order based on international law and the UN Charter," he said.

Putin also said that the BRICS group is open to all who share its values, with members dedicated to finding joint solutions free from external pressure or narrow approaches, Xinhua news agency reported.

The bloc does not operate in a closed format, he stressed at the press conference.

The Russian President confirmed that BRICS leaders have agreed on the list of BRICS partner countries.

"Some countries that have participated in these events have submitted their proposals and requests for full-fledged participation in the work of the BRICS association," Putin added.

He said that BRICS nations haven't developed and are not developing any alternatives to SWIFT, adding however that the issue remains important, and member countries are moving towards the use of national currencies.

He said BRICS members are currently using the Financial Messaging System created by the Russian Central Bank.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Internal discord among Canada's Liberal party members has intensified, with calls for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation escalating during a recent closed-door meeting on Parliament Hill. According to a CBC News report, dissenting MPs voiced growing discontent and outlined their grievances in a pivotal caucus meeting held while the House of Commons is in session.

As Trudeau faces mounting pressure, dissenting MPs issued an ultimatum, pressing him to determine his future by October 28. A document presented in the meeting supported Trudeau's resignation, hinting at a potential Liberal revival akin to the Democrats' surge after President Biden's re-election decision.

Approximately 20 MPs, excluding cabinet ministers, stood to advocate for Trudeau's step-down, while others voiced support for the embattled Prime Minister. Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledged the tensions, stressing the importance of addressing concerns directly.

The controversy is further inflamed by worsening Canada-India relations, after Trudeau's 'credible allegations' linking India to the assassination of a Khalistani terrorist. India's outright denial and accusation of Canada fostering extremism have fueled diplomatic tensions and internal party strife.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The 16th BRICS Summit saw the leaders adopt the Kazan Declaration: 'Strengthening Multilateralism For Just Global Development And Security’ on Wednesday. 

The leaders reiterated the importance of further enhancing BRICS solidarity and cooperation based on their mutual interests and key priorities and further strengthening our strategic partnership. They reaffirmed their commitment to the BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration and consensus. “As we build upon 16 years of BRICS Summits, we further commit ourselves to strengthening cooperation in the expanded BRICS under the three pillars of political and security, economic and financial, cultural and people-to-people cooperation and to enhancing our strategic partnership for the benefit of our people through the promotion of peace, a more representative, fairer international order, a reinvigorated and reformed multilateral system, sustainable  development and inclusive growth.”

Under the head Need for reform of global institutions, it said: The Bretton Woods international financial system’s institutions, including the World Trade Organization, should be reformed to better represent developing countries’ interests. BRICS opposes “unilateral, prohibitive, discriminatory and protectionist” measures taken under the pretext of fighting global climate change, including carbon emissions adjustment mechanisms and taxes. BRICS supports comprehensive reform of the United Nations, including the Security Council, to make it more representative, and notes its centrality in the system of relations between nations.