After thorough investigation, the US&nbsp;Government Accountability Office (GAO) has concluded that the appointments of two of the top homeland security officials in the Trump administration were improper.

The appointments of&nbsp;Chad Wolf, acting secretary of homeland security, and Ken Cuccinelli, his deputy, were not done by following the proper protocol, a US watchdog has revealed.&nbsp;

As the GAO can only forward the unbiased information to the Congress&nbsp;and cannot force the executive branch to take action, it referred the issue to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) inspector general, another watchdog.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-us-brokered-west-asia-peace-deal-is-significant-for-donald-trump-320583">Also read:&nbsp;Why US-brokered West Asia peace deal is significant for Donald Trump</a>

After the&nbsp;Senate-confirmed Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen in left the post 2019, GAO believes that proper protocols and chain of succession was not followed by the Trump administration, which makes the appointments of Wold and Cuccinelli improper.

The GAO issued a 12-page long decision explaining its accusation on the Trump administration.

However,&nbsp;White House spokesman Judd Deere said the GAO decision was "not only wrong, but laughable" as she believes the DHA has the authority to employ acting secretaries under federal law.

This decision could affect Trump's immigration policy, which are being challenged in a federal court in Maryland on Friday. The hearing is about the new Trump rules that make it harder for asylum seekers to obtain work permits. The US District Judge Paula Xinis said that if the GAO findings were correct, the rules should be invalidated.

After thorough investigation, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) has concluded that the appointments of two of the top homeland security officials in the Trump administration were improper.

After thorough investigation, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) has concluded that the appointments of two of the top homeland security officials in the Trump administration were improper. The appointments of Chad Wolf, acting secretary of homeland security, and Ken Cuccinelli, his deputy, were not done by following the proper protocol, a US watchdog has revealed. As the GAO can only forward the unbiased information to the Congress and cannot force the executive branch to take action, it referred the issue to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) inspector general, another watchdog. Also read: Why US-brokered West Asia peace deal is significant for Donald Trump After the Senate-confirmed Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen in left the post 2019, GAO believes that proper protocols and chain of succession was not followed by the Trump administration, which makes the appointments of Wold and Cuccinelli improper. The GAO issued a 12-page long decision explaining its accusation on the Trump administration. However, White House spokesman Judd Deere said the GAO decision was "not only wrong, but laughable" as she believes the DHA has the authority to employ acting secretaries under federal law. This decision could affect Trump's immigration policy, which are being challenged in a federal court in Maryland on Friday. The hearing is about the new Trump rules that make it harder for asylum seekers to obtain work permits. The US District Judge Paula Xinis said that if the GAO findings were correct, the rules should be invalidated.

Two homeland security appointments by Trump improper: US government watchdog

The U.S. Postal Service’s internal watchdog is investigating cost cutting that has slowed delivery and alarmed lawmakers ahead of a presidential election when up to half of U.S. voters could cast ballots by mail, a congressional aide said on Friday.

The Postal Service’s inspector general also will examine possible conflicts of interest involving new Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who has donated $2.7 million to President Donald Trump and his fellow Republicans, according to Saloni Sharma, a spokeswoman for Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren, who requested the investigation.

DeJoy owns millions of dollars in stock in Postal Service rivals and customers, according to a financial disclosure form filed by his wife.

The Inspector General’s Office is “conducting a body of work to address concerns raised,” spokeswoman Agapi Doulaveris said.

The investigation comes as the Postal Service is warning states there is “significant risk” voters will not have enough time to complete and return their ballots. The Postal Service late on Friday released letters it had sent to 46 states and the District of Columbia, after the Washington Post reported earlier on the extent of the warnings.

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The warning highlighted the possibility that a meaningful number of mail votes in the Nov. 3 presidential election might go uncounted if they are returned too late.

“State and local election officials must understand and take into account our operational standards and recommended timelines,” Postal Service spokeswoman Martha Johnson said.

Election officials are bracing for a deluge of mail ballots as many states have made it easier to vote by mail to address concerns about public gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic.

Republican President Donald Trump said Thursday that he opposes additional funding to make mail voting easier.

Trump, who is trailing Democratic rival Joe Biden in opinion polls, has said without evidence that widespread mail voting could lead to fraud. However, public records show he has requested mail ballots for himself and his wife Melania before Florida’s Tuesday primary election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-presidential-election-trump-holds-up-coronavirus-aid-to-block-funding-for-mail-in-voting-320339">Also read:&nbsp;Ahead of presidential election, Trump holds up coronavirus aid to block funding for mail-in voting</a>

Evidence has shown that mail voting is as secure as any other method. Biden and other Democrats say Trump is trying to interfere with the election. Former Democratic President Barack Obama said he was worried that Trump was trying to “kneecap” the Postal Service.

The issue has taken on added urgency in recent weeks, as cost-cutting measures put in place by DeJoy have led to widespread mail delays.

Democratic congressional leaders and committee leaders sent a letter to Dejoy on Friday demanding an explanation for changes he is making at postal facilities.

Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, said on Friday that the changes could violate state laws against election tampering. She called for a criminal investigation.

Too little time?

The Postal Service has warned some states that allowing voters to request ballots less than a week before the election does not leave enough time to print the ballot, mail it to the voter and have it returned.

Half of the states allow voters to request an absentee ballot within seven days of an election. The Postal Service recommends that mail ballots should be completed and sent in by that point.

Ohio, Michigan and several other states with tight deadlines have so far not pushed them back.

Pennsylvania’s secretary of state asked the state Supreme Court to allow ballots to be counted if they are received up to three days after the Nov. 3 election, rather than on Election Day.

The Postal Service’s top lawyer, Thomas Marshall, also encouraged election officials to use its first-class mail service to ensure prompt delivery, rather than the cheaper and slower bulk-mail rate.

Marshall told Congress in a letter released Friday “we have ample capacity to handle the increased volume of Election Mail that will occur because of the pandemic.”

In past elections the Postal Service has given priority to all political and election mail, no matter the postage rate, according to workers and the service’s internal watchdog.

“If this letter aims to backtrack on that collaboration or the promise of prioritization of election mail, that would be very concerning,” said Tracy Wimmer, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State, which oversees elections.

Roughly 0.25% of mail ballots were rejected in 2016 because they arrived too late, according to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

The U.S. Postal Service’s internal watchdog is investigating cost cutting that has slowed delivery and alarmed lawmakers ahead of a presidential election when up to half of U.

The U.S. Postal Service’s internal watchdog is investigating cost cutting that has slowed delivery and alarmed lawmakers ahead of a presidential election when up to half of U.S. voters could cast ballots by mail, a congressional aide said on Friday. The Postal Service’s inspector general also will examine possible conflicts of interest involving new Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who has donated $2.7 million to President Donald Trump and his fellow Republicans, according to Saloni Sharma, a spokeswoman for Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren, who requested the investigation. DeJoy owns millions of dollars in stock in Postal Service rivals and customers, according to a financial disclosure form filed by his wife. The Inspector General’s Office is “conducting a body of work to address concerns raised,” spokeswoman Agapi Doulaveris said. The investigation comes as the Postal Service is warning states there is “significant risk” voters will not have enough time to complete and return their ballots. The Postal Service late on Friday released letters it had sent to 46 states and the District of Columbia, after the Washington Post reported earlier on the extent of the warnings. × The warning highlighted the possibility that a meaningful number of mail votes in the Nov. 3 presidential election might go uncounted if they are returned too late. “State and local election officials must understand and take into account our operational standards and recommended timelines,” Postal Service spokeswoman Martha Johnson said. Election officials are bracing for a deluge of mail ballots as many states have made it easier to vote by mail to address concerns about public gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic. Republican President Donald Trump said Thursday that he opposes additional funding to make mail voting easier. Trump, who is trailing Democratic rival Joe Biden in opinion polls, has said without evidence that widespread mail voting could lead to fraud. However, public records show he has requested mail ballots for himself and his wife Melania before Florida’s Tuesday primary election. Also read: Ahead of presidential election, Trump holds up coronavirus aid to block funding for mail-in voting Evidence has shown that mail voting is as secure as any other method. Biden and other Democrats say Trump is trying to interfere with the election. Former Democratic President Barack Obama said he was worried that Trump was trying to “kneecap” the Postal Service. The issue has taken on added urgency in recent weeks, as cost-cutting measures put in place by DeJoy have led to widespread mail delays. Democratic congressional leaders and committee leaders sent a letter to Dejoy on Friday demanding an explanation for changes he is making at postal facilities. Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, said on Friday that the changes could violate state laws against election tampering. She called for a criminal investigation. Too little time? The Postal Service has warned some states that allowing voters to request ballots less than a week before the election does not leave enough time to print the ballot, mail it to the voter and have it returned. Half of the states allow voters to request an absentee ballot within seven days of an election. The Postal Service recommends that mail ballots should be completed and sent in by that point. Ohio, Michigan and several other states with tight deadlines have so far not pushed them back. Pennsylvania’s secretary of state asked the state Supreme Court to allow ballots to be counted if they are received up to three days after the Nov. 3 election, rather than on Election Day. The Postal Service’s top lawyer, Thomas Marshall, also encouraged election officials to use its first-class mail service to ensure prompt delivery, rather than the cheaper and slower bulk-mail rate. Marshall told Congress in a letter released Friday “we have ample capacity to handle the increased volume of Election Mail that will occur because of the pandemic.” In past elections the Postal Service has given priority to all political and election mail, no matter the postage rate, according to workers and the service’s internal watchdog. “If this letter aims to backtrack on that collaboration or the promise of prioritization of election mail, that would be very concerning,” said Tracy Wimmer, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State, which oversees elections. Roughly 0.25% of mail ballots were rejected in 2016 because they arrived too late, according to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

US Postal Service watchdog to probe service woes as worries rise about mail ballots

Trailblazing Afghan women's rights campaigner Fawzia Koofi, a member of the Afghan negotiating team that will hold talks with the Taliban, has been wounded in a gun attack near Kabul, officials said Saturday.

Gunmen opened fire on Koofi and her sister on Friday when they were returning from a meeting to offer condolences in the province of Parwan, interior ministry spokesman Tariq Arian told AFP.

The attack took place when the two women had got out of their car to purchase something, Arian said.

Koofi, a member of parliament and strong critic of the Taliban, was shot in her right hand, he said, adding that she was in a stable condition.

No group has claimed the attack so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-government-releases-80-of-final-400-taliban-prisoners-320555">Also read:&nbsp;Afghan government releases 80 of final 400 Taliban prisoners</a>

The chief negotiator of Afghan negotiating team, Mohammad Masoom Stanekzai, confirmed the attack on Koofi.

He said security agencies were investigating the incident.

The politician survived a previous assassination attempt in 2010, when gunmen fired at her as she was returning to Kabul after a function for International Women's Day.

Koofi, a former deputy speaker of parliament, is one of the four women negotiators in the Afghan negotiating team.

The group will soon start talks with the Taliban aimed at ending the conflict that has ravaged Afghanistan for 19 years.

Trailblazing Afghan women's rights campaigner Fawzia Koofi, a member of the Afghan negotiating team that will hold talks with the Taliban, has been wounded in a gun attack near Kabul, officials said Saturday.

Trailblazing Afghan women's rights campaigner Fawzia Koofi, a member of the Afghan negotiating team that will hold talks with the Taliban, has been wounded in a gun attack near Kabul, officials said Saturday. Gunmen opened fire on Koofi and her sister on Friday when they were returning from a meeting to offer condolences in the province of Parwan, interior ministry spokesman Tariq Arian told AFP. The attack took place when the two women had got out of their car to purchase something, Arian said. Koofi, a member of parliament and strong critic of the Taliban, was shot in her right hand, he said, adding that she was in a stable condition. No group has claimed the attack so far. Also read: Afghan government releases 80 of final 400 Taliban prisoners The chief negotiator of Afghan negotiating team, Mohammad Masoom Stanekzai, confirmed the attack on Koofi. He said security agencies were investigating the incident. The politician survived a previous assassination attempt in 2010, when gunmen fired at her as she was returning to Kabul after a function for International Women's Day. Koofi, a former deputy speaker of parliament, is one of the four women negotiators in the Afghan negotiating team. The group will soon start talks with the Taliban aimed at ending the conflict that has ravaged Afghanistan for 19 years.

Afghan women's rights trailblazer survives gun attack

Pakistan recorded 747 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 288,047 on Saturday, the health ministry said.

The death toll jumped to 6,162 with nine more people succumbing to the disease.

While 265,624 patients have recovered so far, 768 are still in critical condition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-pakistan-submarine-parked-along-with-chinese-warships-in-karachi-320600">Also read:&nbsp;Now, Pakistan submarine parked along with Chinese warships in Karachi</a>

With the 747 new cases, Pakistan's coronavirus tally reached 288,047, the ministry said.

Of the total infections, Sindh reported 125,632 cases, followed by Punjab at 95,203, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa at 35,091, Islamabad at 15,346, Balochistan at 12,144, Gilgit-Baltistan at 2,452 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir at 2,179.

The authorities have so far conducted 2,253,131 tests to detect coronavirus infection.

Pakistan recorded 747 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 288,047 on Saturday, the health ministry said. The death toll jumped to 6,162 with nine more people succumbing to the disease.

Pakistan recorded 747 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 288,047 on Saturday, the health ministry said. The death toll jumped to 6,162 with nine more people succumbing to the disease. While 265,624 patients have recovered so far, 768 are still in critical condition. Also read: Now, Pakistan submarine parked along with Chinese warships in Karachi With the 747 new cases, Pakistan's coronavirus tally reached 288,047, the ministry said. Of the total infections, Sindh reported 125,632 cases, followed by Punjab at 95,203, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa at 35,091, Islamabad at 15,346, Balochistan at 12,144, Gilgit-Baltistan at 2,452 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir at 2,179. The authorities have so far conducted 2,253,131 tests to detect coronavirus infection.

Pakistan records 747 new coronavirus cases, tally reaches 288,047

Cars to funeral boxes: Americans protest against reopening of schools

Afghan authorities on Friday said they had started to release 400 Taliban prisoners, the final hurdle in long-delayed peace talks between the two warring sides, even as President Ashraf Ghani warned they were a "danger to the world".

The Afghan government and the Taliban are set to meet within days of the prisoner release being completed, in a move that has drawn widespread condemnation after it emerged many of the inmates were involved in attacks that killed scores of Afghans and foreigners.

A group of 80 prisoners was released on Thursday, said National Security Council spokesman Javid Faisal, tweeting that it would "speed up efforts for direct talks and a lasting, nationwide ceasefire".

The peace talks will be held in Doha, Qatar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-reacts-to-wion-interview-with-afghan-govt-spokesperson-says-peace-talks-after-prisoners-released-319716">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban reacts to WION interview with Afghan govt spokesperson; says peace talks after prisoners released</a>

The release of the 400 militants was approved at the weekend by a gathering of thousands of prominent Afghans called by Ghani after the authorities initially refused to free the militants.

The prisoners include some 44 insurgents of particular concern to the United States and other countries for their role in high-profile attacks, according to an official list seen by AFP.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said earlier this week he had lobbied for a former Afghan army soldier, who went rogue and killed three Australian colleagues, to stay in jail.

Ghani warned on Thursday that the hardened criminals were "likely to pose a danger both to us and to (America) and to the world".

"Until this issue, there was a consensus on the desirability of peace but not on the cost of it," Ghani said in a video conference organised by a US think tank.&nbsp;

"We have now paid the major installment on cost and that means peace will have consequences," he added, noting that the release of "hardened criminals" and drug dealers was "likely to pose a danger both to us and to (America) and to the world".

<img alt="Taliban prisoners being released" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73738e16-5dc8-4b31-aace-b1e1185d09a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taliban%20prisoners%20released%20%281%29.jpg" />

A prisoner swap formed part of a deal signed by the Taliban and the United States in February, which saw Washington agree to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan in return for a pledge from the insurgents to hold peace talks with the Afghan government.

The Afghan government was excluded from that deal.

The February deal had stipulated that Kabul release 5,000 militants in return for 1,000 Afghan government prisoners held by the insurgents.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-warn-against-attacks-on-freed-prisoners-going-home-319776">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban warn against attacks on freed prisoners going home</a>

While Kabul released the bulk of Taliban prisoners as agreed in the deal, it had baulked at freeing the final 400.

The "loya jirga" -- the traditional gathering of tribal elders and other prominent citizens called by Ghani at the weekend -- approved the release to pave the way for talks and a possible ceasefire.

They asked authorities to monitor the freed prisoners to ensure they did not return to the battlefield.

Ahead of the jirga, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had urged the gathering to release the prisoners, although he acknowledged the move was "unpopular".

The Taliban, meanwhile, has warned of possible attacks against the freed prisoners by extremists of Islamic State group in coordination with Afghanistan's spy agency.

Afghan authorities on Friday said they had started to release 400 Taliban prisoners, the final hurdle in long-delayed peace talks between the two warring sides, even as President Ashraf Ghani warned they were a "danger to the world".

Afghan authorities on Friday said they had started to release 400 Taliban prisoners, the final hurdle in long-delayed peace talks between the two warring sides, even as President Ashraf Ghani warned they were a "danger to the world". The Afghan government and the Taliban are set to meet within days of the prisoner release being completed, in a move that has drawn widespread condemnation after it emerged many of the inmates were involved in attacks that killed scores of Afghans and foreigners. A group of 80 prisoners was released on Thursday, said National Security Council spokesman Javid Faisal, tweeting that it would "speed up efforts for direct talks and a lasting, nationwide ceasefire". The peace talks will be held in Doha, Qatar. Also read: Taliban reacts to WION interview with Afghan govt spokesperson; says peace talks after prisoners released The release of the 400 militants was approved at the weekend by a gathering of thousands of prominent Afghans called by Ghani after the authorities initially refused to free the militants. The prisoners include some 44 insurgents of particular concern to the United States and other countries for their role in high-profile attacks, according to an official list seen by AFP. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said earlier this week he had lobbied for a former Afghan army soldier, who went rogue and killed three Australian colleagues, to stay in jail. Ghani warned on Thursday that the hardened criminals were "likely to pose a danger both to us and to (America) and to the world". "Until this issue, there was a consensus on the desirability of peace but not on the cost of it," Ghani said in a video conference organised by a US think tank. "We have now paid the major installment on cost and that means peace will have consequences," he added, noting that the release of "hardened criminals" and drug dealers was "likely to pose a danger both to us and to (America) and to the world". A prisoner swap formed part of a deal signed by the Taliban and the United States in February, which saw Washington agree to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan in return for a pledge from the insurgents to hold peace talks with the Afghan government. The Afghan government was excluded from that deal. The February deal had stipulated that Kabul release 5,000 militants in return for 1,000 Afghan government prisoners held by the insurgents. Also read: Taliban warn against attacks on freed prisoners going home While Kabul released the bulk of Taliban prisoners as agreed in the deal, it had baulked at freeing the final 400. The "loya jirga" -- the traditional gathering of tribal elders and other prominent citizens called by Ghani at the weekend -- approved the release to pave the way for talks and a possible ceasefire. They asked authorities to monitor the freed prisoners to ensure they did not return to the battlefield. Ahead of the jirga, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had urged the gathering to release the prisoners, although he acknowledged the move was "unpopular". The Taliban, meanwhile, has warned of possible attacks against the freed prisoners by extremists of Islamic State group in coordination with Afghanistan's spy agency.

Afghan authorities begin release of 'dangerous' Taliban prisoners

Some corals have lived for centuries at the fringes of Mauritius. Now smothered for days in heavy fuel oil spilled from a wrecked Japanese tanker nearby, parts of those reefs may be in trouble.

The full impact of the toxic spill is still unfolding, scientists say. As the Indian Ocean island’s residents scramble to mop up the oil slicks and clumps, they are seeing dead eels and fish floating in the water, as fuel-soaked seabirds limp onto shore.

Satellite images also show the 1,000 tonnes of spilled oil spreading northward along the coastline from the spill site in the turquoise waters of Blue Bay Marine Park.

The damage, scientists say, could impact Mauritius and its tourism-dependent economy for decades.

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“This oil spill occurred in one of, if not the most, sensitive areas in Mauritius,” oceanographer and environmental engineer Vassen Kauppaymuthoo told Reuters by telephone from the island, where he was surveying the disaster. “We are talking of decades to recover from this damage, and some of it may never recover.”

The wildlife at risk include the seagrasses blanketing sand in the shallow waters, clownfish darting around coral reefs, mangrove trees corralling the coastline with their tangled root systems, and the critically endangered Pink Pigeon, endemic to the island.

Giant tortoises slow-walk through a nature reserve on the nearby islet, Ile-aux-Aigrettes, where there is also a scientific research station. Altogether, Blue Bay Marine park counts 38 types of coral and 78 species of fish.

The spill brings “a massive poisonous shock to the system,” said Adam Moolna, an environmental scientist from Mauritius who lectures at Keele University in Britain. “This oil will have cascading effects across the webs of life.”

Still uncontained

The spill came from the Japanese-owned MV Wakashio, which rammed into a reef in the marine park on July 25. It is still unclear why the ship was sailing so closely to the coast. About a week later, oil began gushing from the cracked vessel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-environmental-emergency-mauritius-oil-spill-expands-10-times-its-original-size-320036">Also read:&nbsp;Amid environmental emergency, Mauritius oil spill expands 10 times its original size</a>

However, the flow had been stopped, authorities say, after they pumped the remaining oil from the ship.

On Thursday, the ship’s owner Nagashiki Shipping said it would face up to its liability and assess compensation for the disaster.

Already, about 15 km of coastline have been affected by the spill, said Mauritius Marine Conservation Society President Jacqueline Sauzier.

“We don’t have the equipment or the expertise to remove the oil, and time is of the essence to limit the damage,” she told Reuters.

Local residents are wading unprotected into the toxic waters, while using human hair as well as husks from sugar cane factories to quickly soak up as much of the spill as they can.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-mv-wakashio-leaking-oil-off-the-coast-of-mauritius-319057">Also see:&nbsp;Satellite images show MV Wakashio leaking oil off the coast of Mauritius</a>

For both people and wildlife, the spill will have a “resonating and resounding impact for the next 10 to 20 years,” said environmental toxicologist Craig Downs, who assesses oil spills but has not studied the spill in Mauritius.

Spiraling impact

Coral reefs and fish are likely to suffer first. That’s especially rough for Mauritius, where tourism and fishing are mainstays of the economy.

Corals that survive could have weakened resistance to marine heat waves, which are hitting the area due to climate change and have already caused some coral bleaching, experts say.

“If things continue to go the way they are the future prospects for coral reefs look very, very bleak indeed,” said Alex Rogers, a visiting professor at Oxford University and science director of REV Ocean, a not-for-profit company.

Conservationists are also anxious about oil washing into mangrove forests, where roots serve as nurseries for fish.

Oil also could sink into sediments around mangroves, where it could smother molluscs, crabs and fish larvae, said Callum Roberts, a professor of marine conservation at the University of Exeter in Britain.

“It’s very hard to remove once it’s sunk into the sediment,” Roberts said. “Trees can become sick and die.”

Birds nesting in the mangroves, or migrating via nearby mudflats, are also vulnerable. Ingesting oil can make it hard for birds to fight disease or even to fly, said environmental toxicologist Christopher Goodchild at Oklahoma State University.

Research has shown that “just a small amount of oil being transferred to a bird’s egg — as small as a droplet of blood — can actually cause a change in the bird embryo’s physiology,” he said.

Beds of seagrass, which like mangroves store vast quantities of climate-warming carbon dioxide, play a vital role in protecting coasts from waves.

On land, some scientists warn that washed up oil deposits could harden and lead to lasting change.

“In the long term, we could see an asphalt-like coast as the oil dissipates and degrades, as the oil puddles,” said Ralph Portier, an environmental scientist at Louisiana State University who studied the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

“It’s a real tragedy,” Portier said.

Some corals have lived for centuries at the fringes of Mauritius. Now smothered for days in heavy fuel oil spilled from a wrecked Japanese tanker nearby, parts of those reefs may be in trouble.

Some corals have lived for centuries at the fringes of Mauritius. Now smothered for days in heavy fuel oil spilled from a wrecked Japanese tanker nearby, parts of those reefs may be in trouble. The full impact of the toxic spill is still unfolding, scientists say. As the Indian Ocean island’s residents scramble to mop up the oil slicks and clumps, they are seeing dead eels and fish floating in the water, as fuel-soaked seabirds limp onto shore. Satellite images also show the 1,000 tonnes of spilled oil spreading northward along the coastline from the spill site in the turquoise waters of Blue Bay Marine Park. The damage, scientists say, could impact Mauritius and its tourism-dependent economy for decades. × “This oil spill occurred in one of, if not the most, sensitive areas in Mauritius,” oceanographer and environmental engineer Vassen Kauppaymuthoo told Reuters by telephone from the island, where he was surveying the disaster. “We are talking of decades to recover from this damage, and some of it may never recover.” The wildlife at risk include the seagrasses blanketing sand in the shallow waters, clownfish darting around coral reefs, mangrove trees corralling the coastline with their tangled root systems, and the critically endangered Pink Pigeon, endemic to the island. Giant tortoises slow-walk through a nature reserve on the nearby islet, Ile-aux-Aigrettes, where there is also a scientific research station. Altogether, Blue Bay Marine park counts 38 types of coral and 78 species of fish. The spill brings “a massive poisonous shock to the system,” said Adam Moolna, an environmental scientist from Mauritius who lectures at Keele University in Britain. “This oil will have cascading effects across the webs of life.” Still uncontained The spill came from the Japanese-owned MV Wakashio, which rammed into a reef in the marine park on July 25. It is still unclear why the ship was sailing so closely to the coast. About a week later, oil began gushing from the cracked vessel. Also read: Amid environmental emergency, Mauritius oil spill expands 10 times its original size However, the flow had been stopped, authorities say, after they pumped the remaining oil from the ship. On Thursday, the ship’s owner Nagashiki Shipping said it would face up to its liability and assess compensation for the disaster. Already, about 15 km of coastline have been affected by the spill, said Mauritius Marine Conservation Society President Jacqueline Sauzier. “We don’t have the equipment or the expertise to remove the oil, and time is of the essence to limit the damage,” she told Reuters. Local residents are wading unprotected into the toxic waters, while using human hair as well as husks from sugar cane factories to quickly soak up as much of the spill as they can. Also see: Satellite images show MV Wakashio leaking oil off the coast of Mauritius For both people and wildlife, the spill will have a “resonating and resounding impact for the next 10 to 20 years,” said environmental toxicologist Craig Downs, who assesses oil spills but has not studied the spill in Mauritius. Spiraling impact Coral reefs and fish are likely to suffer first. That’s especially rough for Mauritius, where tourism and fishing are mainstays of the economy. Corals that survive could have weakened resistance to marine heat waves, which are hitting the area due to climate change and have already caused some coral bleaching, experts say. “If things continue to go the way they are the future prospects for coral reefs look very, very bleak indeed,” said Alex Rogers, a visiting professor at Oxford University and science director of REV Ocean, a not-for-profit company. Conservationists are also anxious about oil washing into mangrove forests, where roots serve as nurseries for fish. Oil also could sink into sediments around mangroves, where it could smother molluscs, crabs and fish larvae, said Callum Roberts, a professor of marine conservation at the University of Exeter in Britain. “It’s very hard to remove once it’s sunk into the sediment,” Roberts said. “Trees can become sick and die.” Birds nesting in the mangroves, or migrating via nearby mudflats, are also vulnerable. Ingesting oil can make it hard for birds to fight disease or even to fly, said environmental toxicologist Christopher Goodchild at Oklahoma State University. Research has shown that “just a small amount of oil being transferred to a bird’s egg — as small as a droplet of blood — can actually cause a change in the bird embryo’s physiology,” he said. Beds of seagrass, which like mangroves store vast quantities of climate-warming carbon dioxide, play a vital role in protecting coasts from waves. On land, some scientists warn that washed up oil deposits could harden and lead to lasting change. “In the long term, we could see an asphalt-like coast as the oil dissipates and degrades, as the oil puddles,” said Ralph Portier, an environmental scientist at Louisiana State University who studied the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico. “It’s a real tragedy,” Portier said.

'Massive poisonous shock': Scientists fear lasting impact from Mauritius oil spill

After traces of coronavirus were found on imported frozen chicken wings in China, the World Health Organization (WHO) has claimed it&nbsp;found no evidence of the virus being spread by food or packaging.

The organization has also urged people not to be afraid of the virus entering the food chain.

“People should not fear food, or food packaging or processing or delivery of food,” WHO head of emergencies programme Mike Ryan told a briefing in Geneva. “There is no evidence that food or the food chain is participating in transmission of this virus. And people should feel comfortable and safe.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/novel-coronavirus-found-on-frozen-seafood-in-china-319708">Also read:&nbsp;Novel coronavirus found on frozen seafood in China</a>

To prove the assurance,&nbsp;WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove claimed that after testing, China found "very, very few, less than 10” samples to have traces of the novel coronavirus.

The frozen chicken wings that had traces of coronavirus were imported from Brazil, claimed China. However,&nbsp;Ecuador’s production minister, Ivan Ontaneda, has asked for a clarification from the Asian country on this matter. Brazil’s Agriculture Ministry has retaliated by saying that Brazil follows strict protocols and would not take the blame for whatever happens to the consignments after they leave the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-city-says-chicken-imported-from-brazil-has-tested-positive-for-coronavirus-320074">Also read:&nbsp;Chinese city says chicken imported from Brazil has tested positive for coronavirus</a>

Meanwhile, WHO has urged caution on Vladimir Putin's&nbsp;claims of Russia successfully making the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;Bruce Aylward, WHO senior adviser said, “The vast majority of the population of the world is susceptible to this disease. The second thing that we are seeing is the stringency of the application of control measures is dropping. People are coming closer together...masks aren’t being used the way that they should etc.

“So any levelling of the disease that we are looking at is just lulling you into a sense of false security ... because it has lots of space to still cause trouble,” he added.

After traces of coronavirus were found on imported frozen chicken wings in China, the World Health Organization (WHO) has claimed it found no evidence of the virus being spread by food or packaging.

After traces of coronavirus were found on imported frozen chicken wings in China, the World Health Organization (WHO) has claimed it found no evidence of the virus being spread by food or packaging. The organization has also urged people not to be afraid of the virus entering the food chain. “People should not fear food, or food packaging or processing or delivery of food,” WHO head of emergencies programme Mike Ryan told a briefing in Geneva. “There is no evidence that food or the food chain is participating in transmission of this virus. And people should feel comfortable and safe.” Also read: Novel coronavirus found on frozen seafood in China To prove the assurance, WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove claimed that after testing, China found "very, very few, less than 10” samples to have traces of the novel coronavirus. The frozen chicken wings that had traces of coronavirus were imported from Brazil, claimed China. However, Ecuador’s production minister, Ivan Ontaneda, has asked for a clarification from the Asian country on this matter. Brazil’s Agriculture Ministry has retaliated by saying that Brazil follows strict protocols and would not take the blame for whatever happens to the consignments after they leave the country. Also read: Chinese city says chicken imported from Brazil has tested positive for coronavirus Meanwhile, WHO has urged caution on Vladimir Putin's claims of Russia successfully making the COVID-19 vaccine. Bruce Aylward, WHO senior adviser said, “The vast majority of the population of the world is susceptible to this disease. The second thing that we are seeing is the stringency of the application of control measures is dropping. People are coming closer together...masks aren’t being used the way that they should etc. “So any levelling of the disease that we are looking at is just lulling you into a sense of false security ... because it has lots of space to still cause trouble,” he added.

WHO says no evidence of coronavirus on frozen food packets

Belarus government started releasing the detained prisoners to declare peace between the government and the citizens. The prisoners had been detained while protesting against Belarus President&nbsp;Alexander Lukashenko's rule.

The prisoners were released in the early hours of Friday and were greeted with friends and family who welcomed the detainees with tears, hugs, blankets, water and food.

The government also took responsibility for the violence that erupted during the protests.&nbsp;"I take responsibility and apologise for injuries of random people at the protests who got it in the neck," said Minister of Internal Affairs Yuri Karayev.

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The statement came after thousands of detained protestors complained of mistreatment in the cramped-up holding cells. Out of 6,700 detained protestors, hundreds of them came out with bruises over their bodies and face. Some of the detainees claimed they were beaten up after being dragged out of their cells. However,&nbsp;Deputy Interior Minister Alexander Barsukov declined any form of mistreatment or abuse in the holding cells.

President's ally, the head of a national state council Natalya Kochanova, announced that the President had called for a review for the detentions made. "We don`t fight, we don`t need war," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-says-police-detained-about-700-protesters-overnight-320212">Also read:&nbsp;Belarus says police detained about 700 protesters overnight</a>

While almost all prisoners were released from the Minsk detention centre, nearly two detainees lost their lives. EU Ambassadors reached the spot of the violence, later, to pay respects to the ones who lost their lives protesting against the government. "We are here to mourn the loss of life and also to show solidarity with the victims of the violence and abuse that has taken place over many Belarusian towns and cities over the last few days," EU envoy Dirk Schuebel said.

Belarus residents have been protesting against the sixth-term of the President&nbsp;Lukashenko, whom they accuse of rigging the election process to stay in power. However,&nbsp;Lukashenko has denied all allegations, claiming the protestors are colluding with foreign establishments and are criminals and unemployed people.

Belarus government started releasing the detained prisoners to declare peace between the government and the citizens. The prisoners had been detained while protesting against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's rule.

Belarus government started releasing the detained prisoners to declare peace between the government and the citizens. The prisoners had been detained while protesting against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's rule. The prisoners were released in the early hours of Friday and were greeted with friends and family who welcomed the detainees with tears, hugs, blankets, water and food. The government also took responsibility for the violence that erupted during the protests. "I take responsibility and apologise for injuries of random people at the protests who got it in the neck," said Minister of Internal Affairs Yuri Karayev. × The statement came after thousands of detained protestors complained of mistreatment in the cramped-up holding cells. Out of 6,700 detained protestors, hundreds of them came out with bruises over their bodies and face. Some of the detainees claimed they were beaten up after being dragged out of their cells. However, Deputy Interior Minister Alexander Barsukov declined any form of mistreatment or abuse in the holding cells. President's ally, the head of a national state council Natalya Kochanova, announced that the President had called for a review for the detentions made. "We don`t fight, we don`t need war," she said. Also read: Belarus says police detained about 700 protesters overnight While almost all prisoners were released from the Minsk detention centre, nearly two detainees lost their lives. EU Ambassadors reached the spot of the violence, later, to pay respects to the ones who lost their lives protesting against the government. "We are here to mourn the loss of life and also to show solidarity with the victims of the violence and abuse that has taken place over many Belarusian towns and cities over the last few days," EU envoy Dirk Schuebel said. Belarus residents have been protesting against the sixth-term of the President Lukashenko, whom they accuse of rigging the election process to stay in power. However, Lukashenko has denied all allegations, claiming the protestors are colluding with foreign establishments and are criminals and unemployed people.

Belarus protestors released; government denies violence in holding cells

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-offers-to-help-us-with-covid-19-vaccine-america-says-no-320325">Russia offers to help US with COVID-19 vaccine. America says 'no'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/14/154538-trump-putin.jpg?itok=y2ip7_yQ" />

Russian official told CNN that there is a general sense of mistrust of Russia on the American side. The US officials, on the other hand, say the Russian vaccine is considered so half-baked in the United States that it hadn't even piqued their interest in a serious way before the rollout.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-say-coronavirus-vaccine-will-be-free-for-all-citizens-320320">US officials say coronavirus vaccine will be free for all citizens</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/29/151987-vaccine.jpg?itok=qDZnf-Y-" />

The government will bear the expenses of the vaccine doses, but medical professionals who will give these to patients will be paid by insurers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amid-troubled-ties-us-china-to-resume-talks-on-trade-deal-320335">Amid troubled ties, US, China to resume talks on trade deal</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/08/06/105230-yuu1.jpg?itok=K49QhO5_" />

The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-first-covid-19-vaccine-not-in-advanced-test-stages-who-320318">Russia's first Covid-19 vaccine not in advanced test stages: WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/12/154302-vacco.jpg?itok=nHqc9LCs" />

WHO and partners have included nine experimental COVID-19 vaccines within an investment mechanism it is encouraging countries to join, known as the Covax facility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-trump-strikes-a-deal-israel-uae-to-normalise-relations-320312">Gravitas: Trump strikes a deal: Israel, UAE to normalise relations</a>

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&nbsp;

Russia offers to help US with COVID-19 vaccine. America says 'no' Russian official told CNN that there is a general sense of mistrust of Russia on the American side.

Russia offers to help US with COVID-19 vaccine. America says 'no' Russian official told CNN that there is a general sense of mistrust of Russia on the American side. The US officials, on the other hand, say the Russian vaccine is considered so half-baked in the United States that it hadn't even piqued their interest in a serious way before the rollout. US officials say coronavirus vaccine will be free for all citizens The government will bear the expenses of the vaccine doses, but medical professionals who will give these to patients will be paid by insurers. Amid troubled ties, US, China to resume talks on trade deal The purchases by China according to the deal have been lagging and US President Donald Trump has sharpened his attack towards China at a time when the US is less than 100 days away from the presidential elections. Russia's first Covid-19 vaccine not in advanced test stages: WHO WHO and partners have included nine experimental COVID-19 vaccines within an investment mechanism it is encouraging countries to join, known as the Covax facility. Gravitas: Trump strikes a deal: Israel, UAE to normalise relations ×

Morning news brief: Israel-UAE deal, US says no to Russia's COVID vaccine and more

August 14 in history: Pakistan's independence day, Usain Bolt's victory and more

Apple Inc has been on a blocking rampage for the last few weeks now. After blocking games from Facebook, Microsoft and Google, Apple Inc has now blocked the famous "Fortnite" from its App Store.

Apple Inc has claimed "Fortnite" was violating in-app purchases policy of its App Store, due to which the company had to block the game. Epic Games, game developer, has now decided to retaliate in more than one way.

Epic Games has first filed a lawsuit against Apple Inc asking for no monetary compensation, but urging it to end its in-app purchases policy, and accusing it to block competition — an accusation which has been made against the tech giant earlier too.&nbsp;"Apple has become what it once railed against: the behemoth seeking to control markets, block competition, and stifle innovation. Apple is bigger, more powerful, more entrenched, and more pernicious than the monopolists of yesteryear," Epic said in its lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California.

This was Epic's legal way of handling the block. In addition to this, Epic Games took to social media to rally an online army against this block. Fortnite made a parody of Apple's 1984 introduction video and rolled out a video in which an Apple-shaped character is seen talking about the "anniversary of&nbsp;of the platform unification directives." The speech is interrupted when a woman fighter hurls a unicorn-head stick at the screen.

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The text at the end of the video reads, "Epic Games has defied the App Store monopoly. In retaliation, Apple is blocking Fortnite from a billion devices. Join the fight to stop 2020 from becoming 1984." which is followed by "#FreeFortnite" — a hashtag which has started trending on Twitter too.

Apple, on the other hand, claims a direct payment feature rolled out on the Fortnite app earlier on Thursday as the violation.

"The fact that their (Epic) business interests now lead them to push for a special arrangement does not change the fact that these guidelines create a level playing field for all developers and make the store safe for all users," Apple said in a statement.

Apple believes Epic Games launched the payment feature in Fortnite&nbsp;with the "express intent of violating the App Store guidelines" after having had apps in the store for a decade.

Spotify, the music-streaming app, was the first one to come to Epic's support.&nbsp;"Apple`s unfair practices have disadvantaged competitors and deprived consumers for far too long," Spotify saidin a statement. "The stakes for consumers and app developers large and small couldn`t be higher and ensuring that the iOS platform operates competitively and fairly is an urgent task with far-reaching implications."

Apple Inc has been on a blocking rampage for the last few weeks now. After blocking games from Facebook, Microsoft and Google, Apple Inc has now blocked the famous "Fortnite" from its App Store.

Apple Inc has been on a blocking rampage for the last few weeks now. After blocking games from Facebook, Microsoft and Google, Apple Inc has now blocked the famous "Fortnite" from its App Store. Apple Inc has claimed "Fortnite" was violating in-app purchases policy of its App Store, due to which the company had to block the game. Epic Games, game developer, has now decided to retaliate in more than one way. Epic Games has first filed a lawsuit against Apple Inc asking for no monetary compensation, but urging it to end its in-app purchases policy, and accusing it to block competition — an accusation which has been made against the tech giant earlier too. "Apple has become what it once railed against: the behemoth seeking to control markets, block competition, and stifle innovation. Apple is bigger, more powerful, more entrenched, and more pernicious than the monopolists of yesteryear," Epic said in its lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California. This was Epic's legal way of handling the block. In addition to this, Epic Games took to social media to rally an online army against this block. Fortnite made a parody of Apple's 1984 introduction video and rolled out a video in which an Apple-shaped character is seen talking about the "anniversary of of the platform unification directives." The speech is interrupted when a woman fighter hurls a unicorn-head stick at the screen. × The text at the end of the video reads, "Epic Games has defied the App Store monopoly. In retaliation, Apple is blocking Fortnite from a billion devices. Join the fight to stop 2020 from becoming 1984." which is followed by "#FreeFortnite" — a hashtag which has started trending on Twitter too. Apple, on the other hand, claims a direct payment feature rolled out on the Fortnite app earlier on Thursday as the violation. "The fact that their (Epic) business interests now lead them to push for a special arrangement does not change the fact that these guidelines create a level playing field for all developers and make the store safe for all users," Apple said in a statement. Apple believes Epic Games launched the payment feature in Fortnite with the "express intent of violating the App Store guidelines" after having had apps in the store for a decade. Spotify, the music-streaming app, was the first one to come to Epic's support. "Apple`s unfair practices have disadvantaged competitors and deprived consumers for far too long," Spotify saidin a statement. "The stakes for consumers and app developers large and small couldn`t be higher and ensuring that the iOS platform operates competitively and fairly is an urgent task with far-reaching implications."

'Fortnite' makers to sue Apple Inc as #FreeFortnite trends with remake of 1984 video

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