<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidLwpVQvJQmTfa" /><meta charset="utf-8" />A day after US President Biden said coal plants are too expensive to operate and that his government was "going to be shutting these plants down all across America", he has received stiff resistance from his own partyman and influential West Virginia Senator&nbsp;Joe Manchin.</p>

<p>Reportedly, Manchin said the statement made by President Biden was not only outrageous, "and divorced from reality but also ignores the severe economic pain the American people are feeling because of rising energy costs.”</p>

<p>Manchin, the democrat who has close ties to the coal industry and is one of the prominent voices in the blue camp, continued the attack and said the people of America were losing trust in Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Comments like these are the reason the American people are losing trust in President Biden and instead believe&nbsp;he does not understand the need to have an all in energy policy that would keep our nation totally energy independent and secure," said Manchin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It seems his positions change depending on the audience and the politics of the day. Politicising our nation’s energy policies would only bring higher prices and more pain for the American people."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-americas-biggest-energy-bill-ever-how-clean-is-bidens-clean-energy-plan-504059"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: America's biggest energy bill ever| How clean is Biden's clean energy plan?</strong></a></p>

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<p>As reported by WION, Biden made the rather bold call at an event in California on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was in Massachusetts about a month ago on the site of the largest old coal plant in America. Guess what? It cost them too much money. They can't count. No one is building new coal plants because they can’t rely on it. Even if they have all the coal guaranteed for the rest of the existence of the plant," said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-going-to-shut-these-down-says-biden-on-the-future-of-coal-plants-in-america-531334" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: 'We're going to shut all coal plants in America, replace with wind and solar power,' says Biden&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>The Democrat leader added that his government was going to focus on wind and solar energy which will be using the same infrastructure set up as the one used for the coal-fired electricity transmission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So it's going to become a wind generation. And all they're doing is, it’s going to save them a hell of a lot of money and using the same transmission line that they transmitted the coal-fired electric on, we're going to be shutting these plants down all across America and having wind and solar power."</p>

<p>Notably, this is not the first time that Biden has come down on the coal industry. In the lead-up to the US Presidential race, Biden had said that coal miners should learn to code.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Anybody who can go down 300 to 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well…Give me a break! Anybody who can throw coal into a furnace can learn how to program, for god’s sake!”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-us-midterms-biden-makes-another-gaffe-says-there-are-54-states-529576" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A day after US President Biden said coal plants are too expensive to operate and that his government was "going to be shutting these plants down all across America", he has received stiff resistance from his own partyman and influential West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin.

A day after US President Biden said coal plants are too expensive to operate and that his government was "going to be shutting these plants down all across America", he has received stiff resistance from his own partyman and influential West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin. Reportedly, Manchin said the statement made by President Biden was not only outrageous, "and divorced from reality but also ignores the severe economic pain the American people are feeling because of rising energy costs.” Manchin, the democrat who has close ties to the coal industry and is one of the prominent voices in the blue camp, continued the attack and said the people of America were losing trust in Biden. “Comments like these are the reason the American people are losing trust in President Biden and instead believe he does not understand the need to have an all in energy policy that would keep our nation totally energy independent and secure," said Manchin. "It seems his positions change depending on the audience and the politics of the day. Politicising our nation’s energy policies would only bring higher prices and more pain for the American people." WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: America's biggest energy bill ever| How clean is Biden's clean energy plan? × As reported by WION, Biden made the rather bold call at an event in California on Friday. "I was in Massachusetts about a month ago on the site of the largest old coal plant in America. Guess what? It cost them too much money. They can't count. No one is building new coal plants because they can’t rely on it. Even if they have all the coal guaranteed for the rest of the existence of the plant," said Biden. Read more: 'We're going to shut all coal plants in America, replace with wind and solar power,' says Biden The Democrat leader added that his government was going to focus on wind and solar energy which will be using the same infrastructure set up as the one used for the coal-fired electricity transmission. "So it's going to become a wind generation. And all they're doing is, it’s going to save them a hell of a lot of money and using the same transmission line that they transmitted the coal-fired electric on, we're going to be shutting these plants down all across America and having wind and solar power." Notably, this is not the first time that Biden has come down on the coal industry. In the lead-up to the US Presidential race, Biden had said that coal miners should learn to code. “Anybody who can go down 300 to 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well…Give me a break! Anybody who can throw coal into a furnace can learn how to program, for god’s sake!” Read more: Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Outrageous', 'divorced from reality': Democrat leader Joe Manchin slams Biden's coal comments

<p>US President Joe Biden on Friday said his government was going to shut down all coal plants across America. Reportedly, Biden gave the rather bold call in his speech at an event in California&nbsp;while addressing a gathering.&nbsp;President Biden said that coal plants are too expensive to operate, and hence "we're going to be shutting these plants down all across America" in order to shift to wind power.</p>

<p>"I was in Massachusetts about a month ago on the site of the largest old coal plant in America. Guess what? It cost them too much money. They can't count. No one is building new coal plants because they can’t rely on it. Even if they have all the coal guaranteed for the rest of the existence of the plant," said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Democrat leader added that his government was going to focus on wind and solar energy which will be using the same infrastructure set up as the one used for the coal-fired electricity&nbsp;transmission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So it's going to become a wind generation. And all they're doing is it’s going to save them a hell of a lot of money and using the same transmission line that they transmitted the coal-fired electric on, we're going to be shutting these plants down all across America and having wind and solar power."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-midterm-elections-us-president-joe-biden-takes-defensive-stance-in-campaigns-closing-days-531076"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US Midterm elections: US President Joe Biden takes defensive stance in campaign's closing days</strong></a></p>

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<p>Biden further said that his government will provide all the necessary help to families to weather the change in technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Also providing tax credits to help families buy energy efficient appliances, whether it's your refrigerator or your coffee maker, for solar panels on your home, weatherise your home, things that save an average, experts say, a minimum of $500 a year for the average family."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-says-his-wife-wants-him-to-run-for-president-again-527575"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Joe Biden intends to run for president again, says wife Jill doesn’t want him to 'walk away'</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, this is not the first time that Biden has come down on the coal industry. In the lead-up to the US Presidential race, Biden had said that coal miners should learn to code.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Anybody who can go down 300 to 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well…Give me a break! Anybody who can throw coal into a furnace can learn how to program, for god’s sake!”</p>

<p>With the midterm elections just three days away, the Republicans may attempt to drum up Biden's statement. The Republican National Committee has already remarked that Biden is celebrating coal workers losing their jobs. The hits are only&nbsp;likely to increase in the coming days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-us-midterms-biden-makes-another-gaffe-says-there-are-54-states-529576"><strong>Read more: Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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US President Joe Biden on Friday said his government was going to shut down all coal plants across America. Reportedly, Biden gave the rather bold call in his speech at an event in California while addressing a gathering.

US President Joe Biden on Friday said his government was going to shut down all coal plants across America. Reportedly, Biden gave the rather bold call in his speech at an event in California while addressing a gathering. President Biden said that coal plants are too expensive to operate, and hence "we're going to be shutting these plants down all across America" in order to shift to wind power. "I was in Massachusetts about a month ago on the site of the largest old coal plant in America. Guess what? It cost them too much money. They can't count. No one is building new coal plants because they can’t rely on it. Even if they have all the coal guaranteed for the rest of the existence of the plant," said Biden. The Democrat leader added that his government was going to focus on wind and solar energy which will be using the same infrastructure set up as the one used for the coal-fired electricity transmission. "So it's going to become a wind generation. And all they're doing is it’s going to save them a hell of a lot of money and using the same transmission line that they transmitted the coal-fired electric on, we're going to be shutting these plants down all across America and having wind and solar power." WATCH | US Midterm elections: US President Joe Biden takes defensive stance in campaign's closing days × Biden further said that his government will provide all the necessary help to families to weather the change in technology. "Also providing tax credits to help families buy energy efficient appliances, whether it's your refrigerator or your coffee maker, for solar panels on your home, weatherise your home, things that save an average, experts say, a minimum of $500 a year for the average family." Read more: Joe Biden intends to run for president again, says wife Jill doesn’t want him to 'walk away' Notably, this is not the first time that Biden has come down on the coal industry. In the lead-up to the US Presidential race, Biden had said that coal miners should learn to code. “Anybody who can go down 300 to 3,000 feet in a mine can sure as hell learn to program as well…Give me a break! Anybody who can throw coal into a furnace can learn how to program, for god’s sake!” With the midterm elections just three days away, the Republicans may attempt to drum up Biden's statement. The Republican National Committee has already remarked that Biden is celebrating coal workers losing their jobs. The hits are only likely to increase in the coming days. Read more: Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We're going to shut all coal plants in America, replace with wind and solar power,' says Biden

<p>The takeover of Twitter by Elon Musk has come as bad news for half of the employees at the social media company. According to a senior Twitter executive, at least 50 per cent of employees have been impacted by the layoffs. In other news, the United States on Friday announced an additional $400 million in military aid to Ukraine which includes refurbishing T-72 tanks and missiles for HAWK air defence systems.</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-layoffs-impact-at-least-50-of-employees-reassures-content-moderation-amid-speculations-531333"><strong>Twitter layoffs impact at least 50% of employees, reassures content moderation amid speculations</strong></a></p>

<p>Late Friday, the Head of Safety and Integrity at Twitter, Yoel Roth, took to the social media platform and appears to have confirmed that at least 50 per cent&nbsp;of the workforce has been impacted by the company-wide mass layoffs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/05/308602-wion-images-78.png" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-going-to-shut-these-down-says-biden-on-the-future-of-coal-plants-in-america-531334"><strong>'We're going to shut these down,' says Biden on the future of coal plants in America</strong></a></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden on Friday while addressing a gathering said his government was going to shut down coal plants across America. Reportedly, Biden gave the speech and the rather bold call at an event in California.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/13/303351-new-wion-12.png" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-an-additional-400-million-military-aid-for-ukraine-reaffirms-unwavering-support-531328"><strong>US announces an additional $400 million military aid for Ukraine; reaffirms 'unwavering' support</strong></a></p>

<p>On Friday, the United States announced an additional $400 million in military aid to Ukraine which includes refurbishing T-72 tanks and missiles for HAWK air defence systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/05/308601-wion-images-77.png" />&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baseless-and-irresponsible-allegations-pakistan-army-responds-to-imrans-accusations-531350"><strong>'Baseless and irresponsible allegations,' Pakistan Army responds to Imran's accusations</strong></a></p>

<p>Responding to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan's allegations against the Pakistan military in the aftermath of the assassination attempt, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released a statement.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/25/305902-khan.png" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-irish-priest-says-gay-politicians-will-go-to-hell-531321"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Irish priest says gay politicians "will go to hell"</strong></a></p>

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The takeover of Twitter by Elon Musk has come as bad news for half of the employees at the social media company. According to a senior Twitter executive, at least 50 per cent of employees have been impacted by the layoffs.

The takeover of Twitter by Elon Musk has come as bad news for half of the employees at the social media company. According to a senior Twitter executive, at least 50 per cent of employees have been impacted by the layoffs. In other news, the United States on Friday announced an additional $400 million in military aid to Ukraine which includes refurbishing T-72 tanks and missiles for HAWK air defence systems. Click on headlines to read more: Twitter layoffs impact at least 50% of employees, reassures content moderation amid speculations Late Friday, the Head of Safety and Integrity at Twitter, Yoel Roth, took to the social media platform and appears to have confirmed that at least 50 per cent of the workforce has been impacted by the company-wide mass layoffs. 'We're going to shut these down,' says Biden on the future of coal plants in America US President Joe Biden on Friday while addressing a gathering said his government was going to shut down coal plants across America. Reportedly, Biden gave the speech and the rather bold call at an event in California. US announces an additional $400 million military aid for Ukraine; reaffirms 'unwavering' support On Friday, the United States announced an additional $400 million in military aid to Ukraine which includes refurbishing T-72 tanks and missiles for HAWK air defence systems. 'Baseless and irresponsible allegations,' Pakistan Army responds to Imran's accusations Responding to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan's allegations against the Pakistan military in the aftermath of the assassination attempt, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released a statement. WATCH | Gravitas: Irish priest says gay politicians "will go to hell" ×

Morning news brief: 50% Twitter employees laid off, US provides aid to Ukraine and more

<p>A US B-1B strategic bomber will participate in the ongoing joint air drills with South Korea on Saturday, a defence ministry official in Seoul told AFP, a show of force after a blitz of missile launches by North Korea.</p>

<p>Pyongyang's flurry of launches on Wednesday and Thursday included an intercontinental ballistic missile and one that landed near South Korea's territorial waters for the first time since the end of the Korean War in 1953.</p>

<p>The United States and South Korea have warned that the series of launches could culminate in a nuclear test by North Korea, and extended their largest-ever air force drills to Saturday in response.</p>

<p>A South Korean defence ministry official told AFP that a US Air Force B-1B strategic bomber would participate on the last day of the exercises, dubbed Vigilant Storm, which were originally scheduled from Monday to Friday this week.</p>

<p>"B-1B is scheduled to participate in the afternoon training," the official said, without providing further details.</p>

<p>The show of force came a day after South Korea scrambled fighter jets in response to what it said was the mobilisation of 180 North Korean warplanes.</p>

<p>Pyongyang has ramped up its missile launches in protest over the US-South Korea air drills. Such exercises have long infuriated North Korea, which sees them as rehearsals for an invasion.</p>

<p>Pyongyang had called Vigilant Storm "an aggressive and provocative military drill targeting" North Korea, and said the United States and South Korea would "pay the most horrible price in history" if they continued.</p>

<p>North Korea is particularly sensitive about these drills, experts say, as its air force is one of the weakest links in its military, lacking high-tech jets and properly trained pilots.</p>

<p>Pyongyang has been particularly angered in the past by the deployment of US strategic weapons such as B-1Bs and aircraft carrier strike groups, which have been deployed to and near the Korean peninsula in times of high tension.</p>

<p>While the B-1B no longer carries nuclear weapons, it is described by the US Air Force as "the backbone of America's long-range bomber force" that can strike anywhere in the world.</p>

<p>The United States on Friday assailed China and Russia at the UN Security Council for having "enabled" North Korea.</p>

<p>US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield dismissed criticism of the drills with South Korea as North Korean "propaganda" and said they posed no threat to other countries.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A US B-1B strategic bomber will participate in the ongoing joint air drills with South Korea on Saturday, a defence ministry official in Seoul told AFP, a show of force after a blitz of missile launches by North Korea.

A US B-1B strategic bomber will participate in the ongoing joint air drills with South Korea on Saturday, a defence ministry official in Seoul told AFP, a show of force after a blitz of missile launches by North Korea. Pyongyang's flurry of launches on Wednesday and Thursday included an intercontinental ballistic missile and one that landed near South Korea's territorial waters for the first time since the end of the Korean War in 1953. The United States and South Korea have warned that the series of launches could culminate in a nuclear test by North Korea, and extended their largest-ever air force drills to Saturday in response. A South Korean defence ministry official told AFP that a US Air Force B-1B strategic bomber would participate on the last day of the exercises, dubbed Vigilant Storm, which were originally scheduled from Monday to Friday this week. "B-1B is scheduled to participate in the afternoon training," the official said, without providing further details. The show of force came a day after South Korea scrambled fighter jets in response to what it said was the mobilisation of 180 North Korean warplanes. Pyongyang has ramped up its missile launches in protest over the US-South Korea air drills. Such exercises have long infuriated North Korea, which sees them as rehearsals for an invasion. Pyongyang had called Vigilant Storm "an aggressive and provocative military drill targeting" North Korea, and said the United States and South Korea would "pay the most horrible price in history" if they continued. North Korea is particularly sensitive about these drills, experts say, as its air force is one of the weakest links in its military, lacking high-tech jets and properly trained pilots. Pyongyang has been particularly angered in the past by the deployment of US strategic weapons such as B-1Bs and aircraft carrier strike groups, which have been deployed to and near the Korean peninsula in times of high tension. While the B-1B no longer carries nuclear weapons, it is described by the US Air Force as "the backbone of America's long-range bomber force" that can strike anywhere in the world. The United States on Friday assailed China and Russia at the UN Security Council for having "enabled" North Korea. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield dismissed criticism of the drills with South Korea as North Korean "propaganda" and said they posed no threat to other countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Amid North Korea's threats, US deploys strategic bomber to join air drills with South Korea

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidxeCTbV86qybZ" /><meta charset="utf-8" />A former US military pilot is awaiting a court hearing and possible extradition after being caught by the authorities in Australia for having the same address as a Chinese hacker.</p>

<p>Reportedly, Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, was arrested by Australian Federal Police last month on a request from the US. According to the authorities, Duggan listed the same Beijing address as a Chinese businessman jailed in the US for conspiring to hack US defence contractors' computers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian records reveal that Duggan moved to Beijing from New South Wales in 2014 and listed a flat in upmarket Chaoyang District as his place of address. However, the same address was found to be belonging to a Chinese national named Su Bin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pilots-hired-to-help-china-understand-how-western-planes-operate-526567"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pilots hired to help China understand how western planes operate</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to US court records, Su was arrested in Canada in 2014 and jailed in the US two years later in connection to a case involving the theft of US military aircraft designs. Su had pleaded guilty in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Su's aviation company&nbsp;Nuodian Technology is on the UN Entity List which is a trade blacklist of companies or individuals that pose threat to US national security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Duggan's arrest took place the same day when it was revealed that former British and Australian pilots were being poached by the Chinese military to train its troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles said he ordered the department to investigate claims that ex-Australian military pilots were recruited by the flight school, based in South Africa to work in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uk-australia-to-also-investigate-reports-that-china-hired-its-ex-military-pilots-526810" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: After UK, Australia to also investigate reports that China hired its ex-military pilots</strong></a></p>

<p>"I would be deeply shocked and disturbed to hear that there were personnel who were being lured by a pay check from a foreign state above serving their own country. I have asked the department to investigate these claims and come back to my office with clear advice on this matter," said Marles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A former US military pilot is awaiting a court hearing and possible extradition after being caught by the authorities in Australia for having the same address as a Chinese hacker.

A former US military pilot is awaiting a court hearing and possible extradition after being caught by the authorities in Australia for having the same address as a Chinese hacker. Reportedly, Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, was arrested by Australian Federal Police last month on a request from the US. According to the authorities, Duggan listed the same Beijing address as a Chinese businessman jailed in the US for conspiring to hack US defence contractors' computers. Australian records reveal that Duggan moved to Beijing from New South Wales in 2014 and listed a flat in upmarket Chaoyang District as his place of address. However, the same address was found to be belonging to a Chinese national named Su Bin. WATCH | Pilots hired to help China understand how western planes operate × According to US court records, Su was arrested in Canada in 2014 and jailed in the US two years later in connection to a case involving the theft of US military aircraft designs. Su had pleaded guilty in the case. Su's aviation company Nuodian Technology is on the UN Entity List which is a trade blacklist of companies or individuals that pose threat to US national security. Duggan's arrest took place the same day when it was revealed that former British and Australian pilots were being poached by the Chinese military to train its troops. At the time, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles said he ordered the department to investigate claims that ex-Australian military pilots were recruited by the flight school, based in South Africa to work in China. Read more: After UK, Australia to also investigate reports that China hired its ex-military pilots "I would be deeply shocked and disturbed to hear that there were personnel who were being lured by a pay check from a foreign state above serving their own country. I have asked the department to investigate these claims and come back to my office with clear advice on this matter," said Marles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former US military pilot arrested in Australia. Had the same address as a Chinese hacker

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<p>Earlier this year in April, Indian IT bellwether&nbsp;behemoth Infosys announced that it was going to move its business out of Russia. However, months after making the announcement, the company is still operating from Moscow, as per a Guardian report, putting the spotlight on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, whose wife Akshata Murty receives annual dividends from the company.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, Infosys still has a staffed office on its roster in the Russian capital and is simultaneously paying subcontractors to carry out IT services for a global client.</p>

<p>In April, Infosys chief executive and managing director Salil Parekh had said, “Given what is going on in the region, we have started to transition all of our work from our centres in Russia to our centres outside Russia."</p>

<p>"We have no work with any Russian client today and we have no plans for any work with any Russian client going ahead," he had added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-software-giant-infosys-announces-withdrawal-from-russia-470875"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India's software giant Infosys announces withdrawal from Russia</strong></a></p>

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<p>Opposition leaders are now gunning for Sunak's head saying the Russians are funding his household whose address has changed to 10, Downing Street just a few weeks back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s utterly scandalous that six months after Infosys said it would urgently pull out of Russia, the Sunak family could be materially benefiting from Moscow-based operations,"&nbsp;Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner&nbsp;was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even in the lead-up to the elections, Sunak was forced to explain details about how he managed his family's fortune, which is said to total $840 million and has led to him being routinely referred to as the UK’s richest MP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The majority of Sunak's fortune is derived from his marriage to Akshata who owns a 0.93 per cent stake worth $794 million in Infosys.</p>

<p>Reports of Akshata touted to be wealthier than British Queen Elizabeth II have&nbsp;always irked the British public and the recent reports of Infosys staying in Russia is expected to invite more scathing criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amidst-row-surrounding-uk-fm-rishi-sunak-wife-akshata-indias-infosys-exits-russia-470800" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Amidst row surrounding UK FM Rishi Sunak &amp; wife Akshata, India’s Infosys to exit Russia</strong></a></p>

<p>As reported by WION, Akshata was able to save millions of pounds in tax on dividends, which were collected from her family's IT business.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, she earned a dividend payment worth 11.6 million pounds ($15.1 million). It was only after the controversy snowballed and threatened to hurt Sunak that Akshata agreed to pay more tax on foreign income.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Earlier this year in April, Indian IT bellwether behemoth Infosys announced that it was going to move its business out of Russia. However, months after making the announcement, the company is still operating from Moscow, as per a Guardian report, putting the spotlight on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, whose wife Akshata Murty receives annual dividends from the company.

Earlier this year in April, Indian IT bellwether behemoth Infosys announced that it was going to move its business out of Russia. However, months after making the announcement, the company is still operating from Moscow, as per a Guardian report, putting the spotlight on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, whose wife Akshata Murty receives annual dividends from the company. According to reports, Infosys still has a staffed office on its roster in the Russian capital and is simultaneously paying subcontractors to carry out IT services for a global client. In April, Infosys chief executive and managing director Salil Parekh had said, “Given what is going on in the region, we have started to transition all of our work from our centres in Russia to our centres outside Russia." "We have no work with any Russian client today and we have no plans for any work with any Russian client going ahead," he had added. WATCH | India's software giant Infosys announces withdrawal from Russia × Opposition leaders are now gunning for Sunak's head saying the Russians are funding his household whose address has changed to 10, Downing Street just a few weeks back. “It’s utterly scandalous that six months after Infosys said it would urgently pull out of Russia, the Sunak family could be materially benefiting from Moscow-based operations," Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner was quoted as saying by the publication. Even in the lead-up to the elections, Sunak was forced to explain details about how he managed his family's fortune, which is said to total $840 million and has led to him being routinely referred to as the UK’s richest MP. The majority of Sunak's fortune is derived from his marriage to Akshata who owns a 0.93 per cent stake worth $794 million in Infosys. Reports of Akshata touted to be wealthier than British Queen Elizabeth II have always irked the British public and the recent reports of Infosys staying in Russia is expected to invite more scathing criticism. Read more: Amidst row surrounding UK FM Rishi Sunak & wife Akshata, India’s Infosys to exit Russia As reported by WION, Akshata was able to save millions of pounds in tax on dividends, which were collected from her family's IT business. Last year, she earned a dividend payment worth 11.6 million pounds ($15.1 million). It was only after the controversy snowballed and threatened to hurt Sunak that Akshata agreed to pay more tax on foreign income. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK PM Rishi Sunak under pressure as Infosys continues to operate in Russia

<p>Rattled by the protests&nbsp;in the aftermath of the death of&nbsp;22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini, the Iranian security forces have launched a series of attacks on university students at campuses across the country.&nbsp;According to the Students Union of Iran, the attacks have intensified in the last week or so and more than 40 university students have been arrested so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Humans Rights Watch estimates that at least 308 students have been put behind the bars by the forces since the protest began.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision to crack down on the university students comes in the backdrop of the Iranian government announcing earlier this week&nbsp;that 1,000 people will face public trials in the capital city of Tehran for their alleged involvement in the nationwide protests.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-hijab-protest-iran-indicts-1000-protesters-plans-public-trials-530027" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Anti-hijab protest: Iran indicts 1,000 protesters, plans public trials</strong></a></p>

<p>"Those who intend to confront and subvert the regime are dependent on foreigners and will be punished according to legal standards," said Iran's judiciary chief, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei.</p>

<p>On the same day, however, the students of Hormozgan University in Bandar Abbas tore down the gender segregation barrier in the cafeteria to send a symbolic message to the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-students-tear-down-gender-segregation-barrier-during-protests-530409"><strong>WATCH | Iranian students tear down gender segregation barrier during protests</strong></a></p>

<p>Both male and female students could be seen tearing down the segregation wall to make their way to the other side while chanting slogans of freedom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to human rights activists in Iran, the protests have affected over 125 areas; at least 277 people have died and close to 14,000 have been jailed.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-jamie-oliver-a-19-year-old-chef-beaten-to-death-by-iranian-guards-529839" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Iran's 'Jamie Oliver', a 19-year-old chef beaten to death by Iranian Guards</strong></a></p>

<p>The protests that started in the aftermath of Amini's death have quickly managed to galvanise the oppressed voices in Iran. Since then, it has become a revolution and the university students are the biggest demography of protestors participating in it as their agitation has gradually stirred support from across the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts believe that by attempting to silence their voices, the&nbsp;Khamenei administration is looking to quell dissent altogether.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Rattled by the protests in the aftermath of the death of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini, the Iranian security forces have launched a series of attacks on university students at campuses across the country.

Rattled by the protests in the aftermath of the death of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini, the Iranian security forces have launched a series of attacks on university students at campuses across the country. According to the Students Union of Iran, the attacks have intensified in the last week or so and more than 40 university students have been arrested so far. Humans Rights Watch estimates that at least 308 students have been put behind the bars by the forces since the protest began. The decision to crack down on the university students comes in the backdrop of the Iranian government announcing earlier this week that 1,000 people will face public trials in the capital city of Tehran for their alleged involvement in the nationwide protests. Read more: Anti-hijab protest: Iran indicts 1,000 protesters, plans public trials "Those who intend to confront and subvert the regime are dependent on foreigners and will be punished according to legal standards," said Iran's judiciary chief, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei. On the same day, however, the students of Hormozgan University in Bandar Abbas tore down the gender segregation barrier in the cafeteria to send a symbolic message to the authorities. WATCH | Iranian students tear down gender segregation barrier during protests Both male and female students could be seen tearing down the segregation wall to make their way to the other side while chanting slogans of freedom. According to human rights activists in Iran, the protests have affected over 125 areas; at least 277 people have died and close to 14,000 have been jailed. Read more: Iran's 'Jamie Oliver', a 19-year-old chef beaten to death by Iranian Guards The protests that started in the aftermath of Amini's death have quickly managed to galvanise the oppressed voices in Iran. Since then, it has become a revolution and the university students are the biggest demography of protestors participating in it as their agitation has gradually stirred support from across the world. Experts believe that by attempting to silence their voices, the Khamenei administration is looking to quell dissent altogether. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iranian security forces target university campuses, arrest students to quell protests

<p>As many as 26 years after being elected as Israel's prime minister for the first time,&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu is gearing up for another tenure in the office. After making a stunning comeback in the election,&nbsp;Netanyahu, more fondly known as&nbsp;King Bibi has started coalition talks to form the government.&nbsp;Reports suggest that&nbsp;Netanyahu is set to form one of the most right-wing governments in history with his religious and ultranationalist allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, after securing a decisive majority in Israel's fifth election in four years, Netanyahu has instructed&nbsp;Yariv Levin, his right-hand man to open talks with&nbsp;Religious Zionism and two ultra-Orthodox parties over portfolios.<br />
<br />
Bezalel Smotric and&nbsp;Itamar Ben-Gvir are expected to receive important ministerial berths&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-israels-longest-serving-pm-with-his-share-of-scandals-530667"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's longest-serving PM with his share of scandals</strong></a></p>

<p>Netanyahu led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This election caps the country’s ongoing political instability. Last year, Netanyahu was ousted as the country’s longest-serving leader after 12 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elections-2022-benjamin-netanyahus-right-wing-bloc-heads-for-majority-530387"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel elections 2022: Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing bloc heads for majority</strong></a></p>

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<p>Earlier this week on Thursday,&nbsp;Israel's incumbent Prime Minister Yair Lapid conceded defeat and congratulated Netanyahu for the victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The state of Israel comes before any political consideration. I wish Netanyahu success, for the sake of the people of Israel and the state of Israel,” said the interim prime minister.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-netanyahu-makes-a-comeback-pm-lapid-concedes-defeat-531006">Read more:&nbsp;Israel election: Netanyahu makes a comeback, PM Yair Lapid concedes defeat</a></strong></p>

<p>Furthermore, a statement by his office said that following the results, Lapid also "instructed his entire office to prepare an organised transition of power.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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As many as 26 years after being elected as Israel's prime minister for the first time, Benjamin Netanyahu is gearing up for another tenure in the office. After making a stunning comeback in the election, Netanyahu, more fondly known as King Bibi has started coalition talks to form the government.

As many as 26 years after being elected as Israel's prime minister for the first time, Benjamin Netanyahu is gearing up for another tenure in the office. After making a stunning comeback in the election, Netanyahu, more fondly known as King Bibi has started coalition talks to form the government. Reports suggest that Netanyahu is set to form one of the most right-wing governments in history with his religious and ultranationalist allies. Reportedly, after securing a decisive majority in Israel's fifth election in four years, Netanyahu has instructed Yariv Levin, his right-hand man to open talks with Religious Zionism and two ultra-Orthodox parties over portfolios. Bezalel Smotric and Itamar Ben-Gvir are expected to receive important ministerial berths Read more: Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's longest-serving PM with his share of scandals Netanyahu led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset. This election caps the country’s ongoing political instability. Last year, Netanyahu was ousted as the country’s longest-serving leader after 12 years. WATCH | Israel elections 2022: Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing bloc heads for majority × Earlier this week on Thursday, Israel's incumbent Prime Minister Yair Lapid conceded defeat and congratulated Netanyahu for the victory. “The state of Israel comes before any political consideration. I wish Netanyahu success, for the sake of the people of Israel and the state of Israel,” said the interim prime minister. Read more: Israel election: Netanyahu makes a comeback, PM Yair Lapid concedes defeat Furthermore, a statement by his office said that following the results, Lapid also "instructed his entire office to prepare an organised transition of power.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel: Former PM Benjamin Netanyahu starts coalition talks to form the government

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday, at the end of the two-day meeting of foreign ministers of the world's seven wealthiest democracies or&nbsp;G7, said the group is clear-eyed about its approach in dealing with China.&nbsp;The meeting took place in the western German town of Muenster and the main talking point remained China's aggressive global posturing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In our discussions here, we're also clear eyed about the need to align our approach to the PRC (People's Republic of China) in the face of growing coercion, and push back together against Beijing's market-distorting policies and practices, which hurt workers and industries in all of our countries," said Blinken while talking to reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Blinken talked about a clear-eyed approach, the grouping stopped short of making a reference to a common goal.</p>

<p>However, experts believe that the optics of G7 and Blinken's statement were&nbsp;somewhat diluted as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was visiting China on a one-day trip to meet Xi Jinping. This was the first trip from a G7 leader to China after the 20th CPC Congress where Xi secured a third term for himself as the party general secretary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-chancellor-olaf-scholz-holds-talks-with-xi-jinping-hopes-china-persuades-russia-to-end-war-531173"><strong>WATCH | Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz holds talks with Xi Jinping, hopes China persuades Russia to end war</strong></a></p>

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<p>Moreover, Blinken's statement comes in the backdrop of&nbsp;Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi lashing out at him during the duo's phone call last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The US side should stop its containment and suppression of China and not create new obstacles to bilateral relations,” read the statement released by Beijing's foreign ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese minister also took a shot at the US for its recent strategy of curbing the export of semiconductors to China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-foreign-minister-lashes-out-at-blinken-during-a-phone-call-529868"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Chinese foreign minister lashes out at Blinken during a phone call</strong></a></p>

<p>“The US side introduced new export controls against China, restricting investments in China, seriously violating free-trade principles and seriously harming China’s legitimate rights and interests, which must be corrected.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Blinken took to Twitter to inform about the phone call. However, he stopped short of mentioning the criticism levelled by the Chinese side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The US side introduced new export controls against China, restricting investments in China, seriously violating free-trade principles and seriously harming China’s legitimate rights and interests, which must be corrected," tweeted Blinken.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday, at the end of the two-day meeting of foreign ministers of the world's seven wealthiest democracies or G7, said the group is clear-eyed about its approach in dealing with China.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday, at the end of the two-day meeting of foreign ministers of the world's seven wealthiest democracies or G7, said the group is clear-eyed about its approach in dealing with China. The meeting took place in the western German town of Muenster and the main talking point remained China's aggressive global posturing. "In our discussions here, we're also clear eyed about the need to align our approach to the PRC (People's Republic of China) in the face of growing coercion, and push back together against Beijing's market-distorting policies and practices, which hurt workers and industries in all of our countries," said Blinken while talking to reporters. While Blinken talked about a clear-eyed approach, the grouping stopped short of making a reference to a common goal. However, experts believe that the optics of G7 and Blinken's statement were somewhat diluted as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was visiting China on a one-day trip to meet Xi Jinping. This was the first trip from a G7 leader to China after the 20th CPC Congress where Xi secured a third term for himself as the party general secretary. WATCH | Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz holds talks with Xi Jinping, hopes China persuades Russia to end war × Moreover, Blinken's statement comes in the backdrop of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi lashing out at him during the duo's phone call last week. “The US side should stop its containment and suppression of China and not create new obstacles to bilateral relations,” read the statement released by Beijing's foreign ministry. The Chinese minister also took a shot at the US for its recent strategy of curbing the export of semiconductors to China. Read more: Chinese foreign minister lashes out at Blinken during a phone call “The US side introduced new export controls against China, restricting investments in China, seriously violating free-trade principles and seriously harming China’s legitimate rights and interests, which must be corrected.” Meanwhile, Blinken took to Twitter to inform about the phone call. However, he stopped short of mentioning the criticism levelled by the Chinese side. “The US side introduced new export controls against China, restricting investments in China, seriously violating free-trade principles and seriously harming China’s legitimate rights and interests, which must be corrected," tweeted Blinken. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘G7 clear-eyed about need to align on China,’ says Blinken after foreign ministers’ meet

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin's private army, also called the Wagner group has opened its first official headquarters in the city of Saint Petersburg, Russia.Yevgeny Prigozhin, the man who&nbsp;founded the 'mercenary' group said that the headquarters will serve in generating 'new ideas' for Russia's defence capabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The mission of the PMC Wagner Center is to provide a comfortable environment for generating new ideas to improve Russia's defence capability."</p>

<p>According to reports, the multistorey building topped with a big 'Wagner' sign is expected to provide some credibility to the organisation which has been accused of working in the shadows to do Putin's dirty work, within the country and abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by WION, the Wagner group&nbsp;is alleged to be responsible for at least some of the 13 civilian deaths in conflict-torn Mali, earlier this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malian-army-and-russias-wagner-mercenaries-accused-of-civilian-massacre-13-killed-says-source-530414"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Malian army and Russia's Wagner mercenaries accused of civilian massacre, 13 killed, says source</strong></a></p>

<p>Moreover, if reports coming from the UK's&nbsp;ministry of defence are to be believed, Moscow is recruiting Russian prisoners that are suffering from infectious diseases such as&nbsp;HIV and hepatitis C into the Wagner group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that role of Putin's private militia had evolved ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out. Earlier, the group only hired professional Russian soldiers</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-mercenary-wagner-group-faces-uk-court-action-over-ukraine-terrorism-530681"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's mercenary Wagner group faces UK court action over Ukraine 'terrorism'</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-recruiting-prisoners-with-hiv-hepatitis-for-putins-private-army-report-529885"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Moscow recruiting prisoners with HIV, hepatitis for Putin's private army: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>"The role of Wagner Group has evolved significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In previous conflicts, it maintained relatively high recruitment standards, with many of its operators having previously served as professional Russian soldiers," read the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that the recruitment of prisoners with serious medical concerns, "highlights an approach which now prioritises numbers over experience or quality."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin's private army, also called the Wagner group has opened its first official headquarters in the city of Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's private army, also called the Wagner group has opened its first official headquarters in the city of Saint Petersburg, Russia.Yevgeny Prigozhin, the man who founded the 'mercenary' group said that the headquarters will serve in generating 'new ideas' for Russia's defence capabilities. "The mission of the PMC Wagner Center is to provide a comfortable environment for generating new ideas to improve Russia's defence capability." According to reports, the multistorey building topped with a big 'Wagner' sign is expected to provide some credibility to the organisation which has been accused of working in the shadows to do Putin's dirty work, within the country and abroad. As reported by WION, the Wagner group is alleged to be responsible for at least some of the 13 civilian deaths in conflict-torn Mali, earlier this week. Read more: Malian army and Russia's Wagner mercenaries accused of civilian massacre, 13 killed, says source Moreover, if reports coming from the UK's ministry of defence are to be believed, Moscow is recruiting Russian prisoners that are suffering from infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C into the Wagner group. The report added that role of Putin's private militia had evolved ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out. Earlier, the group only hired professional Russian soldiers WATCH | Russia's mercenary Wagner group faces UK court action over Ukraine 'terrorism' × Read more: Moscow recruiting prisoners with HIV, hepatitis for Putin's private army: Report "The role of Wagner Group has evolved significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In previous conflicts, it maintained relatively high recruitment standards, with many of its operators having previously served as professional Russian soldiers," read the report. It added that the recruitment of prisoners with serious medical concerns, "highlights an approach which now prioritises numbers over experience or quality." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin's Wagner private army gets its first official headquarters in Russia

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqaU2pajah8SN" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Responding to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan's allegations against the Pakistan military for the assassination attempt, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released a statement&nbsp;rejecting Khan's accusations by terming them as 'baseless and irresponsible'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The baseless and irresponsible allegations by chairman PTI against the institution and particularly a senior army officer are absolutely unacceptable and uncalled for," read a statement released by&nbsp;ISPR on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-gunman-who-attacked-imran-khan-531023"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The gunman who attacked Imran Khan</strong></a></p>

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<p>"The Pakistan army prides itself for being an extremely professional and well-disciplined organisation with a robust and highly effective internal accountability system applicable across the board for unlawful acts, if any, committed by uniformed personnel."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pak-pm-imran-khan-to-address-the-nation-shortly-pti-announces-nationwide-protests-531241" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Imran Khan addresses the nation; blames PM Shehbaz Sharif, home minister and ISI for attack on him</strong></a></p>

<p>"The baseless allegations hurled at the institution/officials today are highly regrettable and strongly condemned. No one will be allowed to defame the institution or its soldiers with impunity," the ISPR said.</p>

<p>As reported by WION, during the hour-long televised speech on Friday evening, Khan&nbsp;had narrated details of the assassination attempt on him, and had&nbsp;accused Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif along with the country's interior minister and a senior military officer of plotting the attack without sharing any evidence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PTI chief also urged Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa to hold&nbsp; the "black sheep" in his institution accountable.</p>

<p>Khan&nbsp;also said he had a video, which will be released in case something untoward happened to him.</p>

<p>"Four people plotted to kill me behind closed doors. I've a video with me, if something happens to me, the video will be released," added Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-assassination-attempt-meet-the-hero-who-saved-paks-former-pm-531188" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Imran Khan assassination attempt: Meet Ibtisam Hassan, the ‘hero’ who saved Pak former PM’s life</strong></a></p>

<p>Khan suffered gunshots and was taken urgently to a Lahore hospital. He&nbsp;was shot in both legs, according to the hospital&nbsp;administration. The hospital said that Imran Khan had 16 wounds on both legs when he was brought in an unconscious state with injuries.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Responding to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan's allegations against the Pakistan military for the assassination attempt, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released a statement rejecting Khan's accusations by terming them as 'baseless and irresponsible'.

Responding to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan's allegations against the Pakistan military for the assassination attempt, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released a statement rejecting Khan's accusations by terming them as 'baseless and irresponsible'. "The baseless and irresponsible allegations by chairman PTI against the institution and particularly a senior army officer are absolutely unacceptable and uncalled for," read a statement released by ISPR on Friday. WATCH | Gravitas: The gunman who attacked Imran Khan × "The Pakistan army prides itself for being an extremely professional and well-disciplined organisation with a robust and highly effective internal accountability system applicable across the board for unlawful acts, if any, committed by uniformed personnel." Read more: Imran Khan addresses the nation; blames PM Shehbaz Sharif, home minister and ISI for attack on him "The baseless allegations hurled at the institution/officials today are highly regrettable and strongly condemned. No one will be allowed to defame the institution or its soldiers with impunity," the ISPR said. As reported by WION, during the hour-long televised speech on Friday evening, Khan had narrated details of the assassination attempt on him, and had accused Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif along with the country's interior minister and a senior military officer of plotting the attack without sharing any evidence. The PTI chief also urged Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa to hold the "black sheep" in his institution accountable. Khan also said he had a video, which will be released in case something untoward happened to him. "Four people plotted to kill me behind closed doors. I've a video with me, if something happens to me, the video will be released," added Khan. Read more: Imran Khan assassination attempt: Meet Ibtisam Hassan, the ‘hero’ who saved Pak former PM’s life Khan suffered gunshots and was taken urgently to a Lahore hospital. He was shot in both legs, according to the hospital administration. The hospital said that Imran Khan had 16 wounds on both legs when he was brought in an unconscious state with injuries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Baseless and irresponsible allegations,' Pakistan Army responds to Imran's accusations

<p>Britain's intelligence agencies viz.&nbsp;GCHQ, MI5 and MI6 have introduced a significant change in their spy recruitment policies. Reportedly, the three intelligence agencies will also be hiring spies that do not have British parentage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stating the rule change was meant to reflect diversity, the agencies made a joint statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We perform best in our mission to keep the nation safe and further the UK’s interests when we reflect the diversity of the country we serve,” said a spokesperson on behalf of the agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“By recruiting people from the widest possible range of backgrounds, we can innovate, challenge established ways of thinking and welcome the very brightest and best people to join us."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mi6-makes-a-wild-claim-says-putin-could-be-dead-483647"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: MI6 makes a wild claim, says Putin could be dead</strong></a></p>

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<p>It added that the earlier rule, "stopped brilliant people from applying to work with us," and that, "removing this blanket rule means that all British citizens who apply for jobs in our agencies can now be assessed on their abilities and not where their parents are from.”</p>

<p>Notably, the previous rule meant that a prospective candidate needed to have at least one British parent or the parents&nbsp;had to have citizenship from an approved country.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-spy-agencies-sign-deal-with-amazon-to-host-top-secret-data-for-espionage-report-424123"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;British spy agencies sign deal with Amazon to host ‘top secret data’ for espionage: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The previously approved list of nationalities for applicants' parents included:</p>

<ul>
	<li>British Overseas Territory</li>
	<li>British Subject and British national (overseas)</li>
	<li>British Overseas Citizen</li>
	<li>British Protected Person&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Citizenship of a country of the Commonwealth</li>
	<li>A country in the European Economic Area (EEA)</li>
	<li>Citizenship of the United States of America (USA)</li>
</ul>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/britains-secret-intelligence-service-mi6-looking-for-new-q-spy-tech-master-381555"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Britain's Secret Intelligence Service MI6 looking for new 'Q' spy tech master</strong></a></p>

<p>The new rules suggest that the agencies are moving with the times and making sure that the workplace remains inclusive. In 2016, MI5 was recognised for its diversity efforts after being voted as the country's most gay-friendly employer by a charity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Britain's intelligence agencies viz. GCHQ, MI5 and MI6 have introduced a significant change in their spy recruitment policies. Reportedly, the three intelligence agencies will also be hiring spies that do not have British parentage.

Britain's intelligence agencies viz. GCHQ, MI5 and MI6 have introduced a significant change in their spy recruitment policies. Reportedly, the three intelligence agencies will also be hiring spies that do not have British parentage. Stating the rule change was meant to reflect diversity, the agencies made a joint statement. “We perform best in our mission to keep the nation safe and further the UK’s interests when we reflect the diversity of the country we serve,” said a spokesperson on behalf of the agencies. “By recruiting people from the widest possible range of backgrounds, we can innovate, challenge established ways of thinking and welcome the very brightest and best people to join us." WATCH | Gravitas: MI6 makes a wild claim, says Putin could be dead × It added that the earlier rule, "stopped brilliant people from applying to work with us," and that, "removing this blanket rule means that all British citizens who apply for jobs in our agencies can now be assessed on their abilities and not where their parents are from.” Notably, the previous rule meant that a prospective candidate needed to have at least one British parent or the parents had to have citizenship from an approved country. Read more: British spy agencies sign deal with Amazon to host ‘top secret data’ for espionage: Report The previously approved list of nationalities for applicants' parents included: British Overseas Territory British Subject and British national (overseas) British Overseas Citizen British Protected Person Citizenship of a country of the Commonwealth A country in the European Economic Area (EEA) Citizenship of the United States of America (USA) Read more: Britain's Secret Intelligence Service MI6 looking for new 'Q' spy tech master The new rules suggest that the agencies are moving with the times and making sure that the workplace remains inclusive. In 2016, MI5 was recognised for its diversity efforts after being voted as the country's most gay-friendly employer by a charity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

GCHQ, MI5and MI6 alter hiring rules. Will recruit non-British parentage spies

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