In the long list of bizarre trends, a new craze has taken over TikTok users whereby people use blunt objects like hammers and bottles and hit their faces in the pursuit of achieving aesthetically appealing looks.

Called the “Bone Smashing” trend, this baffling practice has already amassed more than 267.7 million views on TikTok.

This trend involves people attempting to reshape their facial features by deliberately breaking their own bones and achieving what they believe is a desirable face.

Some people posted before and after photos to indicate that they obtained the desired look by breaking their own facial bones.

<h2>Based on Wolff's Law</h2>

This trend seems to be rooted in 19th-century German surgeon and anatomist Julius Wolff's Law.

According to this theory, bones are constantly undergoing remodelling with old or damaged bones continuously being resorbed and replaced by new ones.

It argues that applying mechanical force or physical stress to your bones can actually increase the rate at which such remodelling occurs and, in the process, result in stronger, thicker bones. And the lack of such stress or force can lead to thinner or weaker bones.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-two-doctors-rescue-child-having-breathing-issues-mid-air-641567">India: Two doctors rescue child having breathing issues mid-air</a>

Some TikTokers seem to have misinterpreted this theory to sculpt their facial appearance to gain a more “chiselled” look.

<h2>Defies logic and science&nbsp;</h2>

There is, however, no evidence to suggest that hitting your face with blunt objects will make you more appealing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-fiction-becomes-reality-photo-of-asiatic-lion-standing-on-arabian-sea-shores-goes-viral-641517">When fiction becomes reality: Photo of Asiatic lion standing on Arabian Sea shore goes viral</a>

In fact, the “Bone Smashing” theory is contrary to what Wolff’s law talks about. A blow from a blunt object can actually cause harm, including fractures and deformity.

According to the Evening Standard newspaper, repeated injury from bone-shattering can cause nerve damage and discomfort, while extreme force can result in fractures and lifelong disfigurement.&nbsp;

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In the long list of bizarre trends, a new craze has taken over TikTok users whereby people use blunt objects like hammers and bottles and hit their faces in the pursuit of achieving aesthetically appealing looks.

In the long list of bizarre trends, a new craze has taken over TikTok users whereby people use blunt objects like hammers and bottles and hit their faces in the pursuit of achieving aesthetically appealing looks. Called the “Bone Smashing” trend, this baffling practice has already amassed more than 267.7 million views on TikTok. This trend involves people attempting to reshape their facial features by deliberately breaking their own bones and achieving what they believe is a desirable face. Some people posted before and after photos to indicate that they obtained the desired look by breaking their own facial bones. Based on Wolff's Law This trend seems to be rooted in 19th-century German surgeon and anatomist Julius Wolff's Law. According to this theory, bones are constantly undergoing remodelling with old or damaged bones continuously being resorbed and replaced by new ones. It argues that applying mechanical force or physical stress to your bones can actually increase the rate at which such remodelling occurs and, in the process, result in stronger, thicker bones. And the lack of such stress or force can lead to thinner or weaker bones. Also read | India: Two doctors rescue child having breathing issues mid-air Some TikTokers seem to have misinterpreted this theory to sculpt their facial appearance to gain a more “chiselled” look. Defies logic and science There is, however, no evidence to suggest that hitting your face with blunt objects will make you more appealing. Also read | When fiction becomes reality: Photo of Asiatic lion standing on Arabian Sea shore goes viral In fact, the “Bone Smashing” theory is contrary to what Wolff’s law talks about. A blow from a blunt object can actually cause harm, including fractures and deformity. According to the Evening Standard newspaper, repeated injury from bone-shattering can cause nerve damage and discomfort, while extreme force can result in fractures and lifelong disfigurement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Bone Smashing’: Bizarre TikTok trend sees people hitting faces with hammers

Two doctors who were on board an IndiGo plane came to the rescue of a child who developed severe breathing issues.

The incident happened on Saturday (Sept 30) when the flight, which took off from eastern Ranchi city, was on its way to the capital Delhi city.

The parents were taking the baby to Delhi’s premiere state-run AIIMS Hospital to get treatment for congenital heart disease.

Around 20 minutes after the flight’s take-off, the cabin crew announced the baby’s serious condition and sought medical assistance from any doctor on board.

IAS officer and doctor by training, Dr Nitin Kulkarni, and a doctor from Ranchi Sadar Hospital, Mozammil Pheroz, came forward to help the child.

<h2>Quick thinking</h2>

"The mother was crying as the baby was gasping for breath. Me and Dr Mozammil took over care of the baby. Oxygen was supplied through an adult mask as somehow no baby mask or cannula was available," Kulkarni told PTI news agency.

"We checked the medical records. The baby suffered from a congenital heart condition, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). They were going to AIIMS for it," he said.

He said that a Theophylline injection was given from the drug kit. The parents were carrying injection Dexona, which proved very helpful, he said.

After administering the injection, the baby started to slowly recover and at the same time, its heartbeat was monitored.

“Lack of an oximeter made it difficult to assess the oxygen saturation status," Kulkarni said.

<h2>Medical team arrives&nbsp;</h2>

"The first 15-20 minutes were very crucial and stressful as it was difficult to gauge the progress. Finally, the eyes became normal and the baby also made sounds," he said. He added that the cabin crew was very helpful and provided prompt support.

"We requested for priority landing and full medical support on arrival," Dr Kulkarni said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-fiction-becomes-reality-photo-of-asiatic-lion-standing-on-arabian-sea-shores-goes-viral-641517">When fiction becomes reality: Photo of Asiatic lion standing on Arabian Sea shore goes viral</a>

The flight landed at 9.25 am (local time) and the medical team rushed in to provide the baby with oxygen support.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-no-longer-expects-anything-from-eu-says-erdogan-on-membership-641554">Turkey ‘no longer expects anything from EU’, says Erdogan on membership</a>

"We were happy and satisfied with the outcome of our efforts of more than an hour," Kulkarni said.

Around one hour after the flight landed, a medical&nbsp;team took the baby under their care and provided oxygen support.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two doctors who were on board an IndiGo plane came to the rescue of a child who developed severe breathing issues. The incident happened on Saturday (Sept 30) when the flight, which took off from eastern Ranchi city, was on its way to the capital Delhi city.

Two doctors who were on board an IndiGo plane came to the rescue of a child who developed severe breathing issues. The incident happened on Saturday (Sept 30) when the flight, which took off from eastern Ranchi city, was on its way to the capital Delhi city. The parents were taking the baby to Delhi’s premiere state-run AIIMS Hospital to get treatment for congenital heart disease. Around 20 minutes after the flight’s take-off, the cabin crew announced the baby’s serious condition and sought medical assistance from any doctor on board. IAS officer and doctor by training, Dr Nitin Kulkarni, and a doctor from Ranchi Sadar Hospital, Mozammil Pheroz, came forward to help the child. Quick thinking "The mother was crying as the baby was gasping for breath. Me and Dr Mozammil took over care of the baby. Oxygen was supplied through an adult mask as somehow no baby mask or cannula was available," Kulkarni told PTI news agency. "We checked the medical records. The baby suffered from a congenital heart condition, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). They were going to AIIMS for it," he said. He said that a Theophylline injection was given from the drug kit. The parents were carrying injection Dexona, which proved very helpful, he said. After administering the injection, the baby started to slowly recover and at the same time, its heartbeat was monitored. “Lack of an oximeter made it difficult to assess the oxygen saturation status," Kulkarni said. Medical team arrives "The first 15-20 minutes were very crucial and stressful as it was difficult to gauge the progress. Finally, the eyes became normal and the baby also made sounds," he said. He added that the cabin crew was very helpful and provided prompt support. "We requested for priority landing and full medical support on arrival," Dr Kulkarni said. Also read | When fiction becomes reality: Photo of Asiatic lion standing on Arabian Sea shore goes viral The flight landed at 9.25 am (local time) and the medical team rushed in to provide the baby with oxygen support. Also read | Turkey ‘no longer expects anything from EU’, says Erdogan on membership "We were happy and satisfied with the outcome of our efforts of more than an hour," Kulkarni said. Around one hour after the flight landed, a medical team took the baby under their care and provided oxygen support. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Two doctors rescue child having breathing issues mid-air

A picture of an Asiatic lion standing on the banks of Arabian Sea in western India Gujarat state has left netizens awestruck, reminding many of the Narnia film franchise.

The undated picture went viral on social media soon after the Chief Conservator of Forests of Junagadh region shared it on X and wrote, ''A lion was spotted in the Darya Kantha area during the Bhadrawa Poonam patrol.''

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ભાદરવા પૂનમ પેટ્રોલિંગ દરમ્યાન દરિયા કાંઠા વિસ્તારમાં સિંહ જોવા મળ્યુ <a href="https://t.co/kFM1hP11yz">pic.twitter.com/kFM1hP11yz</a>
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The Indian Forest Service officer, Parveen Kaswan, commented, “When #Narnia looks real. A lion king was captured enjoying the tides of Arabian Sea on the Gujarat coast. Courtesy: CCF, Junagadh."

In the photo, the majestic creature can be seen standing on the shores, seeming to enjoy the water waves.

This enchanting sight is reminiscent of a moment from The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe&nbsp;which showed the noble Aslan standing before the vast expanse of the sea.

Gujarat’s Gir National Park is home to the world’s only Asiatic lion population and the only place outside Africa where a lion can be seen in its natural habitat.

There are approximately 600 Asiatic lions left in the Gir Forest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chipotle-manager-rips-off-employees-hijab-sparks-legal-firestorm-641500">US: Chipotle manager rips off employee's Hijab, sparks legal firestorm</a>

Asiatic lions were once the world’s most threatened species due to indiscriminate hunting by the people of Junagarh, while they were completely wiped out from other parts of Asia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/in-a-first-columbus-original-letter-announcing-discovery-of-america-to-go-on-sale-641453">Columbus' original letter announcing ‘discovery’ of America to go under the hammer</a>

But thanks to the conservation efforts of Nawabs of Junagarh and timely efforts by the Department of Forest Officials after the independence, the population of Asiatic lions grew steadily.

From a population of approximately 20 lions in 1913, they have risen to a comfortable 523, according to the 2015 census.

There are 106 male, 201 female and 213 sub-adult lions in the wilderness of these four districts, Gir National Park’s website has stated. 
 
&nbsp;

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A picture of an Asiatic lion standing on the banks of Arabian Sea in western India Gujarat state has left netizens awestruck, reminding many of the Narnia film franchise.

A picture of an Asiatic lion standing on the banks of Arabian Sea in western India Gujarat state has left netizens awestruck, reminding many of the Narnia film franchise. The undated picture went viral on social media soon after the Chief Conservator of Forests of Junagadh region shared it on X and wrote, ''A lion was spotted in the Darya Kantha area during the Bhadrawa Poonam patrol.'' ભાદરવા પૂનમ પેટ્રોલિંગ દરમ્યાન દરિયા કાંઠા વિસ્તારમાં સિંહ જોવા મળ્યુ pic.twitter.com/kFM1hP11yz — CCFJunagadh (@JunagadhCcf) September 30, 2023 × The Indian Forest Service officer, Parveen Kaswan, commented, “When #Narnia looks real. A lion king was captured enjoying the tides of Arabian Sea on the Gujarat coast. Courtesy: CCF, Junagadh." In the photo, the majestic creature can be seen standing on the shores, seeming to enjoy the water waves. This enchanting sight is reminiscent of a moment from The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe which showed the noble Aslan standing before the vast expanse of the sea. Gujarat’s Gir National Park is home to the world’s only Asiatic lion population and the only place outside Africa where a lion can be seen in its natural habitat. There are approximately 600 Asiatic lions left in the Gir Forest. Also read | US: Chipotle manager rips off employee's Hijab, sparks legal firestorm Asiatic lions were once the world’s most threatened species due to indiscriminate hunting by the people of Junagarh, while they were completely wiped out from other parts of Asia. Also read | Columbus' original letter announcing ‘discovery’ of America to go under the hammer But thanks to the conservation efforts of Nawabs of Junagarh and timely efforts by the Department of Forest Officials after the independence, the population of Asiatic lions grew steadily. From a population of approximately 20 lions in 1913, they have risen to a comfortable 523, according to the 2015 census. There are 106 male, 201 female and 213 sub-adult lions in the wilderness of these four districts, Gir National Park’s website has stated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

When fiction becomes reality: Photo of Asiatic lion standing on Arabian Sea shore goes viral

A visibly livid Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkey, lambasted the European Union on Sunday (Oct 1) over&nbsp;what he claims&nbsp;are hurdles being created to prevent the country from joining the bloc.

Before the inaugural session of the parliament, Erdogan said he “no longer expects anything from the European Union, which has kept us waiting at its door for 40 years".

"We have kept all the promises we have made to the EU but they have kept almost none of theirs," he added, AFP reported.

The 69-year-old Turkish leader further said that he would not "tolerate any new demands or conditions on the accession process" for his country to join the bloc.

<h2>Tensions after ECHR ruling</h2>

His remarks come in the wake of a judgement by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on Thursday that condemned Ankara for convicting a teacher for his alleged role in the 2016 attempted coup on the grounds he had downloaded an encrypted messaging app linked with the alleged plotters.

The ECHR argued that the court’s ruling could be applied to thousands of other Turks who were jailed following a failed coup attempt in 2016.

On Tuesday, the Strasbourg court ruled that the former teacher Yuksel Yalcinkay's rights were violated in three instances: Article 6, Article 7 and Article 11 on freedom of assembly and association.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-deploy-military-instructors-to-ukraine-says-british-defence-minister-641385">UK PM Sunak says no plan to send military instructors in Ukraine</a>

In its ruling, the ECHR said Turkey's conviction of Yalcinkaya was "based decisively" on his alleged use of ByLock, an encrypted messaging system that Turkish courts have said was designed for use by Gulen followers.

<h2>Turkey angry at interference&nbsp;</h2>

Turkey blames a group led by the US-based preacher Fethullah Gulen for being behind the failed attempt to oust Erdogan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-change-is-coming-poland-oppn-gives-rallying-cry-in-warsaw-as-thousands-gather-641483">'Big change is coming': Poland oppn gives rallying cry in Warsaw as thousands gather</a>

Erdogan said that the "decision of the ECHR was the straw that broke the camel's back."

Earlier, Turkish Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç dismissed the ECHR’s decision.

"It is unacceptable for the ECtHR to overstep its jurisdiction and issue a judgement of violation by examining the evidence in a case where our judicial authorities at all levels have deemed the evidence sufficient," the minister said on X.

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A visibly livid Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkey, lambasted the European Union on Sunday (Oct 1) over what he claims are hurdles being created to prevent the country from joining the bloc.

A visibly livid Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkey, lambasted the European Union on Sunday (Oct 1) over what he claims are hurdles being created to prevent the country from joining the bloc. Before the inaugural session of the parliament, Erdogan said he “no longer expects anything from the European Union, which has kept us waiting at its door for 40 years". "We have kept all the promises we have made to the EU but they have kept almost none of theirs," he added, AFP reported. The 69-year-old Turkish leader further said that he would not "tolerate any new demands or conditions on the accession process" for his country to join the bloc. Tensions after ECHR ruling His remarks come in the wake of a judgement by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on Thursday that condemned Ankara for convicting a teacher for his alleged role in the 2016 attempted coup on the grounds he had downloaded an encrypted messaging app linked with the alleged plotters. The ECHR argued that the court’s ruling could be applied to thousands of other Turks who were jailed following a failed coup attempt in 2016. On Tuesday, the Strasbourg court ruled that the former teacher Yuksel Yalcinkay's rights were violated in three instances: Article 6, Article 7 and Article 11 on freedom of assembly and association. Also read | UK PM Sunak says no plan to send military instructors in Ukraine In its ruling, the ECHR said Turkey's conviction of Yalcinkaya was "based decisively" on his alleged use of ByLock, an encrypted messaging system that Turkish courts have said was designed for use by Gulen followers. Turkey angry at interference Turkey blames a group led by the US-based preacher Fethullah Gulen for being behind the failed attempt to oust Erdogan. Also read | 'Big change is coming': Poland oppn gives rallying cry in Warsaw as thousands gather Erdogan said that the "decision of the ECHR was the straw that broke the camel's back." Earlier, Turkish Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç dismissed the ECHR’s decision. "It is unacceptable for the ECtHR to overstep its jurisdiction and issue a judgement of violation by examining the evidence in a case where our judicial authorities at all levels have deemed the evidence sufficient," the minister said on X. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkey ‘no longer expects anything from EU’, says Erdogan on membership

A scientist from The Netherlands has predicted that in the next 48 hours, Pakistan will face one of the most devastating earthquakes in its history.

The prediction was made by Dutch researcher Frank Hoogerbeets of the Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGEOS), an organisation based in The Netherlands.

The organisation has claimed to have detected an unusual increase in electric charge fluctuations along the fault lines in Balochistan’s Chaman area, arguing that it could lead to a powerful earthquake in Pakistan.

Hoogerbeets said that the time between October 1 and 3 would be “critical” for Pakistan.

“Planetary geometry is difficult to interpret with four conjunctions spread out over the next 10 days. As far as I can tell, 1-3 October will be more critical,” he said on social media X on Sept 29.

The unproven predictions casued a flutter on Pakistani social media, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to issue a clarification.

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strong fluctuations - potential for strong to major seismic event <a href="https://t.co/8OhAv363mp">pic.twitter.com/8OhAv363mp</a>
— SSGEOS (@ssgeos) <a href="https://twitter.com/ssgeos/status/1708215952637071541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Planetary geometry is difficult to interpret with four conjunctions spread out over the next 10 days. As far as I can tell, 1-3 October will be more critical. <a href="https://t.co/Cao2VExGNB">https://t.co/Cao2VExGNB</a>
— Frank Hoogerbeets (@hogrbe) <a href="https://twitter.com/hogrbe/status/1707807675487076561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Pak refutes unfounded claims </h2>

On Monday (Oct 2), the PMD brushed aside these speculations saying that it is impossible to accurately predict any seismic activity.

The Met Office said that the boundaries of two major tectonic plates inside the Earth pass through Pakistan which is extended from Sonmiani to the northern region of the country, Geo TV reported.

Earthquakes can occur at any point in these boundary lines, the Met Office added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-pakistan-and-india-next-to-face-earthquake-after-turkey-and-syria-this-dutch-researcher-claims-so-559911">Will Pakistan, India face quakes like Turkey? Researcher thinks so, Pak officials tamp down&nbsp;'prediction'</a>

The last time the Chaman fault line witnessed high seismic activity was in 1892 when it reported 9 to 10 magnitude earthquake.

“Usually, after the passage of 100 years, there is a possibility of a recurrence of an earthquake in the same boundary line,” the Met Office said in the statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-frank-hoogerbeets-dutch-geologist-behind-predictions-about-earthquake-in-delhi-ncr-turkey-syria-574949">Who is Frank Hoogerbeets, the researcher behind predictions of quakes in Delhi-NCR, Turkey &amp; Syria?</a>

“We have not received any kind of warning or instructions from any international organisation regarding earthquake,” it added.

The weather department further urged people not to believe any false news on social media, and said that the system to predict the movement of tectonic plates is not installed in Pakistan.

<h2>Dutch researcher’s other predictions </h2>

Notably, this is not the first time that Hoogerbeets made bold earthquake prediction.

In February this year, Hoogerbeets claimed that India and Pakistan would face massive earthquake at a scale on par with Turkey and Syria, where a devastating quake killed more than 50,000 people.

&nbsp;“These areas could be next candidate for larger seismic activity if we look at the atmospheric fluctuations but again keep in mind that these are rough estimates and not all large earthquakes leave a footprint in the atmosphere they do not always announce themselves,” Hoogerbeets said at that time.

However, no earthquake was reported in the Indian subcontinent.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A scientist from The Netherlands has predicted that in the next 48 hours, Pakistan will face one of the most devastating earthquakes in its history. The prediction was made by Dutch researcher Frank Hoogerbeets of the Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGEOS), an organisation based in The Netherlands.

A scientist from The Netherlands has predicted that in the next 48 hours, Pakistan will face one of the most devastating earthquakes in its history. The prediction was made by Dutch researcher Frank Hoogerbeets of the Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGEOS), an organisation based in The Netherlands. The organisation has claimed to have detected an unusual increase in electric charge fluctuations along the fault lines in Balochistan’s Chaman area, arguing that it could lead to a powerful earthquake in Pakistan. Hoogerbeets said that the time between October 1 and 3 would be “critical” for Pakistan. “Planetary geometry is difficult to interpret with four conjunctions spread out over the next 10 days. As far as I can tell, 1-3 October will be more critical,” he said on social media X on Sept 29. The unproven predictions casued a flutter on Pakistani social media, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to issue a clarification. strong fluctuations - potential for strong to major seismic event pic.twitter.com/8OhAv363mp — SSGEOS (@ssgeos) September 30, 2023 × Planetary geometry is difficult to interpret with four conjunctions spread out over the next 10 days. As far as I can tell, 1-3 October will be more critical. https://t.co/Cao2VExGNB — Frank Hoogerbeets (@hogrbe) September 29, 2023 × Pak refutes unfounded claims On Monday (Oct 2), the PMD brushed aside these speculations saying that it is impossible to accurately predict any seismic activity. The Met Office said that the boundaries of two major tectonic plates inside the Earth pass through Pakistan which is extended from Sonmiani to the northern region of the country, Geo TV reported. Earthquakes can occur at any point in these boundary lines, the Met Office added. Also read | Will Pakistan, India face quakes like Turkey? Researcher thinks so, Pak officials tamp down 'prediction' The last time the Chaman fault line witnessed high seismic activity was in 1892 when it reported 9 to 10 magnitude earthquake. “Usually, after the passage of 100 years, there is a possibility of a recurrence of an earthquake in the same boundary line,” the Met Office said in the statement. Also read | Who is Frank Hoogerbeets, the researcher behind predictions of quakes in Delhi-NCR, Turkey & Syria? “We have not received any kind of warning or instructions from any international organisation regarding earthquake,” it added. The weather department further urged people not to believe any false news on social media, and said that the system to predict the movement of tectonic plates is not installed in Pakistan. Dutch researcher’s other predictions Notably, this is not the first time that Hoogerbeets made bold earthquake prediction. In February this year, Hoogerbeets claimed that India and Pakistan would face massive earthquake at a scale on par with Turkey and Syria, where a devastating quake killed more than 50,000 people. “These areas could be next candidate for larger seismic activity if we look at the atmospheric fluctuations but again keep in mind that these are rough estimates and not all large earthquakes leave a footprint in the atmosphere they do not always announce themselves,” Hoogerbeets said at that time. However, no earthquake was reported in the Indian subcontinent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Catastrophic earthquake to strike Pakistan? Dutch scientist makes startling prediction

The United States has claimed that Iran has enough fissile material to develop nuclear weapons within two weeks.

The US Department of Defence in its ‘2023 Strategy for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction’ report said that Iran has the necessary infrastructure and technological know-how to produce weapons in a record time. The report was published on Friday (Sep 29).

&nbsp;“It is assessed that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapons programme at this time, but has the capacity to produce enough fissile material for a nuclear device in less than two weeks,” the report, which outlines Washington’s strategic approach to countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction globally, said.

&nbsp;“Further, the United States assesses Iran to be noncompliant with its CWC [Chemical Weapons Convention] obligations,” it added.

“For example, Iran has not submitted a complete chemical weapons production facility declaration to comply with CWC processes. The United States is also concerned that Iran is pursuing dual-use central nervous system-acting chemicals for offensive purposes.”

<h2>'Iran flouting CWC regulations'</h2>

The US in its report further blamed Iran for not adhering to the obligations made under the Chemical Weapons Convention.

“For example, Iran has not submitted a complete chemical weapons production facility declaration” as required under the Chemical Weapons Convention, the report stated.

“The US is also concerned that Iran is pursuing dual-use central nervous system acting chemicals of offensive purposes,” the report added.

It comes at a time when the United Nations Security Council 2231 is about to expire this month. It had prohibited Iran from developing long-range missile capacity connected to&nbsp;nuclear weapons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-warns-sweden-to-take-concrete-steps-against-terrorism-to-garner-support-for-nato-bid-641772">Turkey warns Sweden to take 'concrete steps' against terrorism to garner support for NATO bid</a>

<h2>Can West continue its sanctions on Iran?</h2>

On Thursday (Sep 28), Britain, France and Germany said that they would retain ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;even after the resolution expires.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-walk-away-biden-pledges-support-to-ukraine-after-congress-pauses-war-time-aid-641627">'We will not walk away': Biden pledges support to Ukraine after Congress pauses war-time aid</a>

Last month, Israeli National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi had warned if Iran enriches uranium above 60 per cent, Jerusalem would take a stern action.

“If Iran moves to enrich uranium above 60% and we identify it—and there is no possibility that we won’t, that the world would not recognize it—the result is that Israel would act out of necessity,” he said, adding, “There would be no choice.”

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The United States has claimed that Iran has enough fissile material to develop nuclear weapons within two weeks. The US Department of Defence in its ‘2023 Strategy for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction’ report said that Iran has the necessary infrastructure and technological know-how to produce weapons in a record time.

The United States has claimed that Iran has enough fissile material to develop nuclear weapons within two weeks. The US Department of Defence in its ‘2023 Strategy for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction’ report said that Iran has the necessary infrastructure and technological know-how to produce weapons in a record time. The report was published on Friday (Sep 29). “It is assessed that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapons programme at this time, but has the capacity to produce enough fissile material for a nuclear device in less than two weeks,” the report, which outlines Washington’s strategic approach to countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction globally, said. “Further, the United States assesses Iran to be noncompliant with its CWC [Chemical Weapons Convention] obligations,” it added. “For example, Iran has not submitted a complete chemical weapons production facility declaration to comply with CWC processes. The United States is also concerned that Iran is pursuing dual-use central nervous system-acting chemicals for offensive purposes.” 'Iran flouting CWC regulations' The US in its report further blamed Iran for not adhering to the obligations made under the Chemical Weapons Convention. “For example, Iran has not submitted a complete chemical weapons production facility declaration” as required under the Chemical Weapons Convention, the report stated. “The US is also concerned that Iran is pursuing dual-use central nervous system acting chemicals of offensive purposes,” the report added. It comes at a time when the United Nations Security Council 2231 is about to expire this month. It had prohibited Iran from developing long-range missile capacity connected to nuclear weapons. Also read | Turkey warns Sweden to take 'concrete steps' against terrorism to garner support for NATO bid Can West continue its sanctions on Iran? On Thursday (Sep 28), Britain, France and Germany said that they would retain ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran even after the resolution expires. Also read | 'We will not walk away': Biden pledges support to Ukraine after Congress pauses war-time aid Last month, Israeli National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi had warned if Iran enriches uranium above 60 per cent, Jerusalem would take a stern action. “If Iran moves to enrich uranium above 60% and we identify it—and there is no possibility that we won’t, that the world would not recognize it—the result is that Israel would act out of necessity,” he said, adding, “There would be no choice.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran has capacity to make nuclear weapons in two weeks, US warns in new report

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Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar hinted that he was picked by the country’s all-powerful military to helm the top post for the interim period until an elected government takes charge, and added that “he is not apologetic about it”.

Kakar’s remarks came during an interview with BBC.

When was asked whether the military had picked him to run the country until elections, that have been since&nbsp;postponed,&nbsp;are held in Pakistan, he replied, "I’m not being apologetic. I’m not trying to create the impression otherwise,” he said, adding, “I am just trying to illustrate the reasons why do people think that way.”

<h2>'Pak military better at governance'&nbsp;</h2>

Kakar categorically said that the Pakistani military has been better at governing the country than the civilian government.

“In my opinion, the issue is that the civil institutions, when they are assigned to deliver on account of the governance, they fail and they have deteriorated their capacity in the last four or five decades. And by design or default, on the other hand, the military as an organisation has gained strength. So, whenever a challenge occurs on account of the governance, the government has to rely on the military.”

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‘I’m not being apologetic. I’m not trying to create the impression otherwise’ 
 
Pakistan’s Caretaker Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/anwaar_kakar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anwaar_kakar</a> on whether he’s the military’s choice to run the country until the postponed elections take place <a href="https://t.co/4IhypZQDG3">pic.twitter.com/4IhypZQDG3</a>
— BBC HARDtalk (@BBCHARDtalk) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCHARDtalk/status/1707691018932375780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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When asked whether he was saying that the military was very strong in Pakistan, Kakar said, “Well pragmatically of course yes. That’s what exactly I’m saying.”

<h2>Can't keep Pak military out of polity&nbsp;</h2>

This is the second time in a week that Kakar has admitted that the military still wields significant influence in matters of security and foreign policy.

In an interview with the news channel TRT World, a Turkish public broadcaster, on Tuesday, when asked whether the Pakistani military will continue to play a major role in politics, Kakar said, “Pragmatically, realistically and honestly ... affirmative, yes.”

It is a well-established fact that the military holds significant power in the affairs of the government. The fact that the previous prime ministers have admitted this openly leads to an understanding why Pakistan, in its 75 years of existence, has seen so many coups.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar hinted that he was picked by the country’s all-powerful military to helm the top post for the interim period until an elected government takes charge, and added that “he is not apologetic about it”.

Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar hinted that he was picked by the country’s all-powerful military to helm the top post for the interim period until an elected government takes charge, and added that “he is not apologetic about it”. Kakar’s remarks came during an interview with BBC. When was asked whether the military had picked him to run the country until elections, that have been since postponed, are held in Pakistan, he replied, "I’m not being apologetic. I’m not trying to create the impression otherwise,” he said, adding, “I am just trying to illustrate the reasons why do people think that way.” 'Pak military better at governance' Kakar categorically said that the Pakistani military has been better at governing the country than the civilian government. “In my opinion, the issue is that the civil institutions, when they are assigned to deliver on account of the governance, they fail and they have deteriorated their capacity in the last four or five decades. And by design or default, on the other hand, the military as an organisation has gained strength. So, whenever a challenge occurs on account of the governance, the government has to rely on the military.” ‘I’m not being apologetic. I’m not trying to create the impression otherwise’ Pakistan’s Caretaker Prime Minister @anwaar_kakar on whether he’s the military’s choice to run the country until the postponed elections take place pic.twitter.com/4IhypZQDG3 — BBC HARDtalk (@BBCHARDtalk) September 29, 2023 × When asked whether he was saying that the military was very strong in Pakistan, Kakar said, “Well pragmatically of course yes. That’s what exactly I’m saying.” Can't keep Pak military out of polity This is the second time in a week that Kakar has admitted that the military still wields significant influence in matters of security and foreign policy. In an interview with the news channel TRT World, a Turkish public broadcaster, on Tuesday, when asked whether the Pakistani military will continue to play a major role in politics, Kakar said, “Pragmatically, realistically and honestly ... affirmative, yes.” It is a well-established fact that the military holds significant power in the affairs of the government. The fact that the previous prime ministers have admitted this openly leads to an understanding why Pakistan, in its 75 years of existence, has seen so many coups. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar says military very strong, ‘picked’ him for post

The current India-US partnership is going to reach another level under the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar said, and added that like Chandrayaan, the bilateral ties would “reach the Moon and beyond”.

Jaishankar made these remarks at the 'Celebrating Colours of Friendship' event organised by the Embassy of India in Washington on Saturday, which was attended by several hundred Indian-Americans.

“There is one clear message today that our relationship is at an all-time high. But as they say in America, you ain't seen anything yet. So, we are going to take this relationship to a different level, to a different place,” he said at the India House.

<h2>'US played key role in success of G20'</h2>

Jaishankar also credited the success of the G20 Summit in New Delhi to the US.

“As the host, when things go well, the host always gets the credit. It's reasonable. But, the G20 could not have come together if all the members of the G20 did not work for its success," he said

"I think particularly, I must say, because I'm in this country today, the contribution, the support and the understanding that we got from the United States to make a successful G20, I think that is something I would certainly like to recognise in public in Washington DC,” Jaishankar added.

“So, it may have been our success in a literal way, but I think it was the G20 [nations] success. To me, it was also a success of the India-US&nbsp;partnership.… Please keep giving this partnership the support it needs, the support it deserves and the support it expects. And I can promise you that this relationship, like the Chandrayaan, will go to the Moon, maybe even beyond,” he said.

<h2>'India-US bond unique'&nbsp;</h2>

Jaishankar said that what makes the US and India ties unique is the human bond between the two countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-implements-revised-grap-to-combat-air-pollution-during-winters-641475">India: Centre implements revised GRAP to combat air pollution during winters</a>

“Countries do business with each other. Countries do politics with each other. They have military ties, they do exercises, and they have cultural exchanges. But when two countries have that deep human bonding, that's a completely different ballgame. That is today the defining characteristic of our relationship,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-condemns-disgraceful-incident-after-high-commissioner-denied-entry-to-uk-gurudwara-641341">India condemns ‘disgraceful incident’ after high commissioner denied entry to UK Gurudwara</a>

The foreign minister lauded the contribution of the Indian diaspora in strengthening the relations between Washington and New Delhi.

"There are no words that can capture it. It is on that foundation that today we are looking ahead for...a new hope on the horizon...So, I think when we look at the horizon, we really see fantastic possibilities out there, and it's the community which is going to deliver on that,” Jaishankar said. 
 
&nbsp;

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The current India-US partnership is going to reach another level under the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar said, and added that like Chandrayaan, the bilateral ties would “reach the Moon and beyond”.

The current India-US partnership is going to reach another level under the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar said, and added that like Chandrayaan, the bilateral ties would “reach the Moon and beyond”. Jaishankar made these remarks at the 'Celebrating Colours of Friendship' event organised by the Embassy of India in Washington on Saturday, which was attended by several hundred Indian-Americans. “There is one clear message today that our relationship is at an all-time high. But as they say in America, you ain't seen anything yet. So, we are going to take this relationship to a different level, to a different place,” he said at the India House. 'US played key role in success of G20' Jaishankar also credited the success of the G20 Summit in New Delhi to the US. “As the host, when things go well, the host always gets the credit. It's reasonable. But, the G20 could not have come together if all the members of the G20 did not work for its success," he said "I think particularly, I must say, because I'm in this country today, the contribution, the support and the understanding that we got from the United States to make a successful G20, I think that is something I would certainly like to recognise in public in Washington DC,” Jaishankar added. “So, it may have been our success in a literal way, but I think it was the G20 [nations] success. To me, it was also a success of the India-US partnership.… Please keep giving this partnership the support it needs, the support it deserves and the support it expects. And I can promise you that this relationship, like the Chandrayaan, will go to the Moon, maybe even beyond,” he said. 'India-US bond unique' Jaishankar said that what makes the US and India ties unique is the human bond between the two countries. Also read | India: Centre implements revised GRAP to combat air pollution during winters “Countries do business with each other. Countries do politics with each other. They have military ties, they do exercises, and they have cultural exchanges. But when two countries have that deep human bonding, that's a completely different ballgame. That is today the defining characteristic of our relationship,” he said. Also read | India condemns ‘disgraceful incident’ after high commissioner denied entry to UK Gurudwara The foreign minister lauded the contribution of the Indian diaspora in strengthening the relations between Washington and New Delhi. "There are no words that can capture it. It is on that foundation that today we are looking ahead for...a new hope on the horizon...So, I think when we look at the horizon, we really see fantastic possibilities out there, and it's the community which is going to deliver on that,” Jaishankar said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘You ain’t seen anything yet’: Jaishankar says India-US ties to reach another level

A Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is also the aide of the Mumbai 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed was shot dead in broad daylight in Pakistan’s Karachi city, local media reports claimed.

The deceased is said to be Qaiser Farooq, one of the founding members of the proscribed terror organisation LeT.

Video doing the rounds on social media purportedly showed a man, bearing close resemblance to Farooq, walking down the road near a religious institution in Samanabad on Saturday as he is shot from behind.

While any official confirmation is yet to be awaited; many local media reports alleged that the deceased was Farooq.

Moreover, the veracity of the video is yet to be ascertained.

<h2>Succumbed to bullet wounds</h2>

Following the attack, Farooq was reportedly admitted to a nearby hospital, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

A 10-year-old boy was also wounded in the attack. The reports further claimed that it was a targeted attack.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Video</a> : One of the founder members of Terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba and a close associate of terrorist Hafiz Saeed, Mufti Qaiser Farooq has been shot dead by "unknown gunmen" in Karachi. <a href="https://t.co/DSW0HHvPdx">pic.twitter.com/DSW0HHvPdx</a>
— Baba Banaras™ (@RealBababanaras) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealBababanaras/status/1708175452073070938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Disclaimer: WION could not verify the authenticity of the viral video

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-reported-near-turkish-parliament-ahead-of-planned-session-641429">Turkey says blast near parliament building a 'terrorist attack'</a>

The development comes months after another LeT founding member Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, who has also served as the second-in-command of the terror group, was reportedly found dead in a Pakistani prison.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-six-killed-in-nightclub-fire-in-murcia-city-death-toll-likely-to-rise-641445">Spain: Six killed in nightclub fire in Murcia city, death toll likely to rise</a>

<h2>Comes after death of another LeT founder</h2>

Bhuttavi, believed to be in his early 80 by some estimates, helped prepare the terrorists who carried out the 2008 Mumbai attack.

He was&nbsp;sentenced&nbsp;to 16-and-a-half years in prison by an anti-terrorism court in Lahore, in a case of terror financing, in August 2020.

According to a report in Hindustan Times, Bhuttavi died of a heart attack in a prison at Sheikhupura in the Punjab province of Pakistan.

Local reports stated that LeT-affiliated organisations shared videos purportedly showing Bhuttavi’s funeral, believed to have been near Lahore.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is also the aide of the Mumbai 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed was shot dead in broad daylight in Pakistan’s Karachi city, local media reports claimed.

A Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is also the aide of the Mumbai 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed was shot dead in broad daylight in Pakistan’s Karachi city, local media reports claimed. The deceased is said to be Qaiser Farooq, one of the founding members of the proscribed terror organisation LeT. Video doing the rounds on social media purportedly showed a man, bearing close resemblance to Farooq, walking down the road near a religious institution in Samanabad on Saturday as he is shot from behind. While any official confirmation is yet to be awaited; many local media reports alleged that the deceased was Farooq. Moreover, the veracity of the video is yet to be ascertained. Succumbed to bullet wounds Following the attack, Farooq was reportedly admitted to a nearby hospital, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries during treatment. A 10-year-old boy was also wounded in the attack. The reports further claimed that it was a targeted attack. #Video : One of the founder members of Terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba and a close associate of terrorist Hafiz Saeed, Mufti Qaiser Farooq has been shot dead by "unknown gunmen" in Karachi. pic.twitter.com/DSW0HHvPdx — Baba Banaras™ (@RealBababanaras) September 30, 2023 × Disclaimer: WION could not verify the authenticity of the viral video Also read | Turkey says blast near parliament building a 'terrorist attack' The development comes months after another LeT founding member Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, who has also served as the second-in-command of the terror group, was reportedly found dead in a Pakistani prison. Also read | Spain: Six killed in nightclub fire in Murcia city, death toll likely to rise Comes after death of another LeT founder Bhuttavi, believed to be in his early 80 by some estimates, helped prepare the terrorists who carried out the 2008 Mumbai attack. He was sentenced to 16-and-a-half years in prison by an anti-terrorism court in Lahore, in a case of terror financing, in August 2020. According to a report in Hindustan Times, Bhuttavi died of a heart attack in a prison at Sheikhupura in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Local reports stated that LeT-affiliated organisations shared videos purportedly showing Bhuttavi’s funeral, believed to have been near Lahore. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

LeT founding member and aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed gunned down in Karachi: Report

An epic novel by Miguel de Cervantes, it was published in two parts in 1605 and 1615. It is labelled as one of the greatest works ever written. More than 500 million copies have been sold till now 

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The European Union was poised Thursday to agree new rules for how it handles asylum-seekers and irregular migrants after Germany said it would go along with the intensely-negotiated package.

EU home affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson said "no main obstacles" remain on the thorny issue after a meeting of the bloc's interior ministers, and formal agreement would come "in a few days".

Once implemented, the new Pact on Migration and Asylum would seek to relieve the pressure on so-called frontline countries such as Italy and Greece by relocating some arrivals to other EU states.

Those countries opposed to hosting asylum-seekers -- Poland and Hungary among them -- would be required to pay the ones that do take migrants in.

At the same time, the European Union will seek to speed up processing of asylum applications so that migrants deemed inadmissible are returned to their country of origin or of transit, and maximum detention times for migrants in border centres would be lengthened from the current 12 weeks.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said her country won concessions allowing it to finally back the deal, after initially abstaining on an earlier draft it considered too harsh for some categories of migrants.

Only Poland and Hungary voiced opposition to the compromise text in the Brussels meeting, she said, so "we therefore assume that this political agreement is valid".

Changes made to get German assent included making sure families and children were "prioritised" when they arrived irregularly on EU soil and admission criteria for asylum-seekers were not tightened, she said.

Also, "the concept of instrumentalisation was defined more narrowly," Faeser said.

That appeared to refer to efforts by Italy's right-wing government to treat charity ships conducting migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean similarly to people-smugglers, &nbsp;or to countries such as Belarus that have pushed migration flows towards Europe as a tactic.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in Berlin that his country needed more time to study the latest text.

Speaking after chairing the Brussels meeting, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stressed that "a very broad majority of member states" agreed with the compromise approach.

While "nuances" still needed to be hammered out, he vowed that final agreement would be reached "within the next few days".

"We are almost at the finishing line," he said.

Paralysis on the issue had caused growing frustration in the 27-nation bloc as it faces a rise in irregular migration.

The arrival of thousands of asylum-seekers arriving from Africa on the Italian island of Lampedusa notably spurred urgency to get the revised policy in place.

Part of the aim of the revised policy is for European Union countries to act together should they be faced with a sudden large inflow of asylum-seekers, as happened in 2015-2016 when hundreds of thousands of migrants arrived, most of them Syrians fleeing the war in their country.

Agreement among EU member states needs a weighted majority of countries to vote in favour, meaning countries opposing the host-or-pay clause -- Poland, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic -- would likely not have enough support to block it.

In Budapest, Gergely Gulyas, chief of staff of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, heaped fresh criticism on the migration pact.

"All they can achieve with this migration pact is to turn the border countries, countries along the Schengen border into Lampedusa," he said.

The European Parliament added its own pressure on the ministers by deciding last week to pause negotiations with EU member states on aspects of the pact that had met little resistance, those dealing with reinforced security along the bloc's outer border.

The goal of the EU is to have the reform made law before European elections next June that will usher in a new European Parliament and commission.

The next cycle in EU politics could see a political shift in the European Parliament, given the rise of right-wing parties in several EU countries, and would see Hungary and Poland take turns holding the rotating EU presidency.

The European Union was poised Thursday to agree new rules for how it handles asylum-seekers and irregular migrants after Germany said it would go along with the intensely-negotiated package.

The European Union was poised Thursday to agree new rules for how it handles asylum-seekers and irregular migrants after Germany said it would go along with the intensely-negotiated package. EU home affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson said "no main obstacles" remain on the thorny issue after a meeting of the bloc's interior ministers, and formal agreement would come "in a few days". Once implemented, the new Pact on Migration and Asylum would seek to relieve the pressure on so-called frontline countries such as Italy and Greece by relocating some arrivals to other EU states. Those countries opposed to hosting asylum-seekers -- Poland and Hungary among them -- would be required to pay the ones that do take migrants in. At the same time, the European Union will seek to speed up processing of asylum applications so that migrants deemed inadmissible are returned to their country of origin or of transit, and maximum detention times for migrants in border centres would be lengthened from the current 12 weeks. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said her country won concessions allowing it to finally back the deal, after initially abstaining on an earlier draft it considered too harsh for some categories of migrants. Only Poland and Hungary voiced opposition to the compromise text in the Brussels meeting, she said, so "we therefore assume that this political agreement is valid". Changes made to get German assent included making sure families and children were "prioritised" when they arrived irregularly on EU soil and admission criteria for asylum-seekers were not tightened, she said. Also, "the concept of instrumentalisation was defined more narrowly," Faeser said. That appeared to refer to efforts by Italy's right-wing government to treat charity ships conducting migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean similarly to people-smugglers, or to countries such as Belarus that have pushed migration flows towards Europe as a tactic. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in Berlin that his country needed more time to study the latest text. Speaking after chairing the Brussels meeting, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stressed that "a very broad majority of member states" agreed with the compromise approach. While "nuances" still needed to be hammered out, he vowed that final agreement would be reached "within the next few days". "We are almost at the finishing line," he said. Paralysis on the issue had caused growing frustration in the 27-nation bloc as it faces a rise in irregular migration. The arrival of thousands of asylum-seekers arriving from Africa on the Italian island of Lampedusa notably spurred urgency to get the revised policy in place. Part of the aim of the revised policy is for European Union countries to act together should they be faced with a sudden large inflow of asylum-seekers, as happened in 2015-2016 when hundreds of thousands of migrants arrived, most of them Syrians fleeing the war in their country. Agreement among EU member states needs a weighted majority of countries to vote in favour, meaning countries opposing the host-or-pay clause -- Poland, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic -- would likely not have enough support to block it. In Budapest, Gergely Gulyas, chief of staff of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, heaped fresh criticism on the migration pact. "All they can achieve with this migration pact is to turn the border countries, countries along the Schengen border into Lampedusa," he said. The European Parliament added its own pressure on the ministers by deciding last week to pause negotiations with EU member states on aspects of the pact that had met little resistance, those dealing with reinforced security along the bloc's outer border. The goal of the EU is to have the reform made law before European elections next June that will usher in a new European Parliament and commission. The next cycle in EU politics could see a political shift in the European Parliament, given the rise of right-wing parties in several EU countries, and would see Hungary and Poland take turns holding the rotating EU presidency.

EU poised to agree new rules for asylum-seekers

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