Top Sri Lankan official out after counterfeit drug scandal arrest

A Sri Lankan Cabinet minister has resigned after being arrested in a scandal over the government's alleged purchase of counterfeit drugs during the country's economic crisis.

A government statement Tuesday confirmed that Environment Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, who previously served as health minister, has resigned. He was arrested on Friday for alleged involvement in the procurement of counterfeit intravenous human immunoglobulin, which is used to help fight infections and cancer, and was ordered held for investigation until Feb. 15.

His resignation follows mounting pressure from opposition lawmakers, activists and health groups for him to be removed and for a transparent investigation to be held into the scandal.

SRI LANKA POLICE USE TEAR GAS TO DISPERSE OPPOSITION PROTEST AGAINST ECONOMIC CONDITIONS

Five other senior Health Ministry officials and the supplier of the alleged counterfeit drugs have also been arrested.

Rambukwella is accused of using the economic crisis as a pretext to bypass the usual tender process in purchasing many types of medicine and allegedly favor a particular supplier.

He served as health minister until last October, when he was removed and appointed environment minister. In September, he survived a no-confidence motion submitted in Parliament by opposition lawmakers who accused him of failing to secure enough essential drugs and laboratory equipment, resulting in preventable deaths in hospitals.

The no-confidence motion was easily defeated since the governing coalition has a majority in the 225-member house.

Rambukwella could not be reached for comment. He has previously rejected the allegations against him.

Sri Lanka provides free health care through state-run hospitals, which experienced a shortage of medicines and health workers, especially doctors, as a result of the economic crisis.

Several patients died or suffered impairments, including blindness, while being treated at the hospitals over the last two years under circumstances that are being investigated by the Health Ministry. Their relatives, medical trade unions, activists and opposition lawmakers alleged that low-quality drugs led to poor patient care.

Sri Lanka has been struggling with an economic crisis since declaring bankruptcy in April 2022 with more than $83 billion in debt, more than half of it to foreign creditors. The economic crunch caused severe shortages of food, medicine, fuel, cooking gas and electricity in 2022, which led to massive street protests that forced then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign.

Sri Lanka has secured a $3 billion bailout package from the International Monetary Fund and is taking steps to restructure its domestic and foreign debts.

The shortages of food, fuel and medicine have largely abated over the past year under new President Ranil Wickremesinghe. But public dissatisfaction has grown over government efforts to increase revenue by raising electricity charges and imposing heavy new income taxes on professionals and businesses. The new taxes are part of the government’s effort to meet the conditions of the IMF bailout.

Because of the crisis, thousands of Sri Lankans are leaving the country for better paying jobs abroad, including about 1,500 doctors who have left over the last year, according to a doctors' union.

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122 dead, hundreds more missing as central Chile torched by wildfires

Volunteers in central Chile tried to remove charred metal, broken glass and other debris Monday from neighborhoods devastated by wildfires over the past several days, as officials raised the death toll to 122. Hundreds of people remain missing.

The fires appeared to have diminished by Monday morning after burning intensely since Friday on the eastern edge of the city of Viña del Mar. Two other towns in the Valparaíso region, Quilpé and Villa Alemana, also have been hit hard, and President Gabriel Boric said Sunday that at least 3,000 homes had been burnt down in the area.

An additional 10 victims were added to the death toll on Monday afternoon, bringing it to 122, said Marisol Prado, the director of Chile’s Forensic Medical Service.

COLOMBIA DECLARES A DISASTER BECAUSE OF WILDFIRES AND ASKS FOR INTERNATIONAL HELP

Prado said that many bodies were in bad condition and difficult to identify, but added that forensic workers would be taking samples of genetic material from people who have reported missing relatives.

Viña del Mar's Mayor Macarena Ripamonti said that at least 370 people have been reported missing in the city of about 300,000 residents.

The fires ravaged several neighborhoods that had been precariously built on the mountains that loom to the east of Viña del Mar, which is also a popular beach resort.

Pricila Rivero, a chef from the neighborhood of Alto Miraflores, said that it took about 15 minutes for the flames to travel from a neighboring hill to her home.

She said she rushed her children to safety when she saw the fire approaching, but by the time she returned to salvage some of her posessions her house was burning, with licks of flame emerging from the windows.

"It’s the place where we have lived all our lives" Rivero said. "It’s so sad to see it destroyed, and to lose our memories, our photos, the pictures from my parents' wedding, but some of that will remain in our hearts."

Schools and other public buildings in Viña del Mar and in the capital city of Santiago are currently serving as depots, where people are taking donations of water, food, candles and shovels for the victims of the fires.

In Viña del Mar and the nearby towns of Villa Alemana and Quilpé, police have asked people who have not been affected by the fires to stay at home so that rescue crews can move around with more ease.

Hundreds of people affected by the fires returned to their homes on Monday to search through the debris. Many have said they prefer to sleep near their homes in order to prevent looters from taking what is left of their possessions, or from claiming the land their homes were built on.

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4 bus and taxi drivers shot to death in violent southern Mexico city

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Four bus and taxi drivers were killed Monday following apparently coordinated attacks by gunmen in the city of Chilpancingo, the capital of the southern Pacific coast state of Guerrero.

Drug gangs battling for control in the state have long been known to kill people for not paying "protection" fees, including drivers. In January, drivers in Acapulco and in the colonial city of Taxco staged strikes to protest the killings of their colleagues.

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State prosecutors said they are investigating the killings Monday on streets and roads around Chilpancingo, and have received reinforcements from the army and National Guard.

The prosecutors said the victims were members of the transportation industry but did not specify how many drove taxis and how many drove buses. Local media reported that at least two of the dead were drivers of privately owned bus-like minivans who were shot aboard their vehicles.

Transportation workers are frequently shaken down for protection payments by drug gangs throughout Guerrero state. Some drivers are also sometimes forced to work for the gangs under threat. That is despite the fact that more army and National Guard troops have been dispatched to Guerrero — which was hit by Category 5 Hurricane Otis in October — than to any other state in Mexico.

In late January, the tourist town of Taxco endured a days-long strike by private taxi and van drivers who suffered threats from one of several drug gangs fighting for control of the area. The situation was so bad that police had to give people rides in the back of their patrol vehicles.

Earlier in January, the main Acapulco chamber of commerce reported that gang threats and attacks caused about 90% of the city’s passenger vans to stop running, affecting the resort’s main form of transport.

Acapulco has been bloodied by turf battles between gangs since at least 2006. The gangs are fighting over drug sales and income from extorting protection payments from businesses, bars, bus and taxi drivers.

Truck drivers are also growing weary of continued violent robberies of trucks and their merchandise, in which the drivers are also frequently killed.

The Mexican-American Federation of Truck Drivers, along with several other industry groups, had scheduled a demonstration by truckers on a busy highway outside Mexico City on Monday to protest the wave of killings of truck drivers during highway robberies.

But the Interior Department issued a statement Sunday saying drivers had agreed to talks with federal officials on increased security on the highways, and only scattered protests occurred Monday.

Thieves have long hijacked trucks on highways in central Mexico, but generally abandoned the drivers and their trucks after stealing the merchandise they were carrying. But now, industry groups say, the gangs often kill drivers and take the trucks to lots where they are stripped and sold for parts.

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Explore Greek cuisine: Diverse flavors, rich history, and fresh ingredients

There are a number of reasons that draw travelers to Greece, from the sun-soaked islands to the historically rich mainland. However, one of the best reasons is having the opportunity to savor the extraordinary cuisine that the nation proudly offers. 

Even if a trip to Greece isn't in the cards, you can recreate the experience at home or explore your local Greek restaurant. Here are various delectable Greek dishes worth savoring at least once in your lifetime:

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The Mediterranean diet in Greece reflects a cultural connection to their food. Meals are viewed as a communal experience, bringing people together to share stories and create lasting memories. Local markets are crowded with produce, and the aroma of freshly baked bread emphasizes the importance of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Characterized by olive oil, fresh vegetables, whole grains and an intake of fish and wine, this diet is not just a way of eating but a way of life in Greece. 

"The Greek Mediterranean diet is not merely a diet, but rather a way of life: it constitutes a set of skills, knowledge and practices, promoting social interaction, since communal meals are the cornerstone of social customs and festive events," reads the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. 

No Greek dining experience is complete without indulging in mezes, a selection of small dishes meant for sharing. Tzatziki, a yogurt and cucumber dip, and Taramasalata, a creamy fish roe spread, are just the beginning. 

GREEK ISLAND HOLDS SECRET TO LONGER LIFE?

The variety within mezes reflects the country's regional diversity, with each region contributing its own unique twists to these shared dishes. Whether enjoyed in a seaside taverna with the sound of waves as a backdrop or in a cozy family-owned restaurant tucked away in a charming alley, the experience of mezes goes beyond the culinary – it's a celebration of togetherness. 

The iconic souvlaki and gyro, cherished as typical Greek street foods, are the very essence of Greek comfort food. Whether wrapped in warm pita bread or skewered and grilled to perfection, these dishes will hit the spot every time. 

WHERE DID THE GYRO COME FROM?

The interplay of meats, typically lamb, chicken or pork, with a medley of fresh tomatoes, crisp onions and a generous dollop of velvety tzatziki, creates delicious Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Visitors can enjoy this Greek food on the streets of Athens or in a quaint village square. These beloved street foods are a testament to the Greeks' mastery of simple yet exquisite cuisine. 

With its extensive coastline, Greece offers a number of seafood delights:

TOURISM PICKS UP IN GREECE, BUT WITHOUT THE GREEKS

Kakavia is typically made with a variety of fish, shellfish and other seafood, combined with vegetables such as tomatoes, onions and potatoes. The soup is seasoned with herbs and spices, creating a savory and aromatic dish.

Visitors can travel to coastal tavernas for a seafood feast that reflects the freshness and simplicity of Greek coastal life. 

1. Crete

Crete is known for its high-quality, tender lamb, and it's prepared in various ways to showcase its natural taste. Grilled lamb chops, slow-cooked stews and roasted lamb with aromatic herbs are some of the popular lamb dishes you might encounter on the island.

2. Thessaloniki

Bougatsa is a traditional Greek pastry that originated in the city of Thessaloniki. It is a type of phyllo dough pastry that can be either sweet or savory. The most common types are sweet bougatsa with custard filling or sweet cream, and savory bougatsa with cheese or minced meat filling.

MIKE EMANUEL SHARES A TRADITIONAL GREEK FAMILY FAVORITE 

3. Santorini

Domatokeftedes are a Greek dish hailing from the beautiful island of Santorini. These are tomato fritters that showcase the island's rich agricultural produce, particularly its vibrant and flavorful tomatoes. The dish perfectly captures the essence of the Aegean sun-soaked harvest, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Greek desserts are a sweet celebration of tradition and local ingredients. Sink your teeth into the luscious layers of baklava, a decadent pastry crafted from delicate phyllo dough and an irresistible medley of nuts. For a taste of golden perfection, savor loukoumades, delectable fried dough orbs generously drizzled with golden honey. 

Conclude your culinary journey with Greek spoon sweets, featuring fruits preserved in rich, syrupy perfection — a sweet note to end your Greek dining experience.

Sip the rich narratives of Greece's selection of wines, from the robust reds hailing from Nemea to the crisp Assyrtiko whites dancing on the vineyards of Santorini.

Each glass captures the essence of Greek winemaking. Elevate your toast with the anise-flavored allure of ouzo or the robust character of tsipouro, traditional spirits that embody the conviviality woven into the fabric of Greek dining.

From Greek mezes to seafood, regional specialties to sweet endings, every bite is a celebration of tradition and a testament to the Greek passion for life, food, and shared moments around the table.

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US forces launch self-defense strike on Houthis, accuse group of presenting 'an imminent threat' in Red Sea

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that its forces conducted a self-defense strike against Houthi forces early Sunday morning.

In a statement published on X Sunday evening, CENTCOM explained that American forces "struck four anti-ship cruise missiles, all of which were prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea."

"U.S. forces identified the missiles in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region," CENTCOM's statement read.

"These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels."

US RETALIATORY STRIKES WILL PROVE ‘INEFFECTIVE’: KIRK LIPPOLD

Earlier on Sunday, CENTCOM published video showing U.S. forces supporting joint strikes against Iranian-backed Houthi militants on Saturday.

The video showed rockets launching from the ships in pitch-black darkness. The efforts were part of joint strikes against the Houthis, which included support from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Bahrain, the Netherlands and New Zealand.

CENTCOM said that the Saturday strikes were launched from the USS Carney, the USS Gravely and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.

US STRIKES HOUTHI ANTI-AIRCRAFT MISSILE INSIDE YEMEN, OFFICIAL SAYS

Since the Israel-Hamas war escalated in the fall, Houthis have routinely attacked commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

On Saturday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that the recent counter-strikes are aimed to "degrade the capabilities" of the Houthis.

"These strikes are intended to further disrupt and degrade the capabilities of the Iranian-backed Houthi militia to conduct their reckless and destabilizing attacks against U.S. and international vessels lawfully transiting the Red Sea," Austin said in a statement on Saturday.

"This collective action sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will continue to bear further consequences if they do not end their illegal attacks on international shipping and naval vessels," he added. 

Fox News Digital's Bradford Betz and Louis Casiano contributed to this report. 

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Saudi Arabia pushes for US defense pact as 2024 presidential election looms

Saudi Arabia may be willing to accept a non-binding commitment from Israel to create a Palestinian state in its push to get a defense pact with the United States ahead of the 2024 presidential election. 

Saudi Arabia had been heading toward normalizing relations with Israel and recognizing the country for the first time thanks to U.S.-led diplomacy. But those efforts were shelved in October after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, and Israel’s subsequent counter-offensive that enraged the Arab world.  

Still, Saudi Arabia is increasingly keen to shore up its security and ward off threats from rival Iran, so the kingdom can forge ahead with its ambitious plan to transform its economy and attract huge foreign investment, two regional sources said.

Riyadh’s diplomatic push comes amid growing concerns over the military reach of Iran, which has proxies in Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. 

To create some wiggle room in talks about recognizing Israel and to get the U.S. pact back on track, Saudi officials have told their U.S. counterparts that Riyadh would not insist Israel take concrete steps to create a Palestinian state and would instead accept a political commitment to a two-state solution, two senior regional sources told Reuters.

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Such a major regional deal, widely seen as a long shot even before the Israel-Hamas war, would still face numerous political and diplomatic obstacles, not least the uncertainty over how the Gaza conflict will unfold.

Another big hurdle to these plans is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who has outright rejected any U.S. and Arab aspirations for a Palestinian state once the Gaza war is over.

A potential pact giving the world's biggest oil exporter U.S. military protection in exchange for normalization with Israel would reshape the Middle East by uniting two long-time foes and binding Riyadh to Washington at a time when China is making inroads in the region.

A normalization deal would also bolster Israel's defenses against arch-rival Iran and give U.S. President Joe Biden a diplomatic victory to vaunt ahead of the Nov. 5 presidential election.

The Saudi officials have privately urged Washington to press Israel to end the Gaza war and commit to a "political horizon" for a Palestinian state, saying Riyadh would then normalize relations and help fund Gaza's reconstruction, one of the regional sources said.

Reuters contributed to this report.  

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Iran issues warning to US about possible attacks on 2 cargo ships suspected of spy activities

Iranian officials warned the U.S. on Sunday about possibly targeting two cargo ships in the Middle East that are suspected of being spy ships for the country.

The warning was issued after forces from the U.S. and U.K. launched an airstrike offensive against Houthi rebels located in Yemen.

The Associated Press reported that the statement from Iran referred to the Behshad and Saviz ships, which are both registered commercial cargo ships with a company based in Tehran, which the U.S. Treasury sanctioned as a front for the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines.

The statement also appeared to show Tehran’s increasing uneasiness with the U.S. strike in Iraq, Syria and Yemen, which targeted militias backed by the Islamic Republic.

IRAN VOWS TO ‘DECISIVELY RESPOND’ TO ANY US ATTACKS: 'NO THREAT WILL BE LEFT UNANSWERED

The attacks ordered by President Biden were in response to the killing of three U.S. soldiers and the wounding of dozens of others in Jordan. Attacks on U.S. troops and facilities in the Middle East have also increased since the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip intensified after Hamas’ invasion of Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

The U.S. continues to claim it is not looking for a war in the Middle East and is there to ensure the war between Hamas and Israel does not spread across the region.

U.S. and coalition forces launched more than two dozen strikes on Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen on Saturday, targeting 13 locations with deeply buried storage facilities, missile systems, launchers, air defense systems and radars, according to U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.

US, COALITION FORCES, LAUNCH MULTIPLE STRIKES AGAINST IRAN-BACKED HOUTHIS IN YEMEN

After the attacks, the Houthis did not provide an assessment of the damage, though they issued a statement.

"These attacks will not discourage Yemeni forces and the nation from maintaining their support for Palestinians in the face of Zionist occupation and crimes," Houthi military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree said. "The aggressors’ airstrikes will not go unanswered."

The Behshad and Saviz are suspected of being spy ships for Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, as both ships have loitered in the Red Sea off Yemen for years.

US RETALIATORY STRIKES WILL PROVE ‘INEFFECTIVE’: KIRK LIPPOLD

Saudi Arabia described the Saviz in 2017 as a maritime base and weapons transfer point for the Revolutionary Guard. The ship was staffed by men in military fatigues, and Saudi-owned television stations showed the ship with what looked to be a machine bolted to the deck of the ship and covered.

Iran’s regular army issued a statement in a video on Sunday, which, according to The Associated Press, has a narrator describing the two vessels as "floating armories."

The narrator also reportedly describes the Behshad as an aid for countering piracy in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden," though Iran is not known to have been part of any campaigns recently against Somali piracy in the region, at least publicly.

US STRIKES HOUTHI ANTI-AIRCRAFT MISSILE INSIDE YEMEN, OFFICIAL SAYS

Before the U.S. launched its attacks, the Behshad moved south into the Gulf of Aden, and it is now docked in Djibouti in East Africa, near a Chinese Military base.

The video statement ends with images of U.S. warships, an American flag and a warning.

"Those engaging in terrorist activities against Behshad, or similar vessels jeopardize international maritime routes, security and assume global responsibility for potential future international risks," the video stated.

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command did not immediately respond to inquiries from Fox News Digital on the matter.

The Saviz is reportedly in the Indian Ocean near the location where the U.S. claims Iranian drone attacks have targeted ships.

The same ship, in 2021, had a hole blown through its hull by a possible mine explosion in an attack suspected to have been carried out by Israel. The ship ultimately returned to its port.

Fox News Digital’s Louis Casiano and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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