After a mysterious&nbsp;fire broke out at the&nbsp;Natanz nuclear site in Iran, Iranian officials have blamed it on cyber sabotage. However, Israel's Defence Minister retaliated by saying that Israel is not "necessarily" behind every mysterious incident.

"Not every incident that transpires in Iran necessarily has something to do with us. All those systems are complex, they have very high safety constraints and I'm not sure they always know how to maintain them," said Benny Gantz.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-threatens-retaliation-after-what-it-calls-possible-cyber-attack-on-nuclear-site-310563">Also read:&nbsp;Iran threatens retaliation after what it calls possible cyber attack on nuclear site</a>

The one-storey underground Natanz site was partly burned in a fire on Thursday. The building is the monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency as it is believed to be a focus point of the country's uranium enrichment programme.

Israel is believed to be the region's only nuclear power. The country has pledged to never allow Iran to obtain any form of atomic weapons and&nbsp;says its atomic programme is peaceful.

The comment from Israel came after reports stated that Iran thinks the reason behind this fire could either be a cyber sabotage, or simply Israel or the US. However, the statements were issued by unnamed sources in a news wire agency, and the sources did not offer any evidence to support their words.

Last month, Israeli security cabinet minister Zeev Elkin said Iran had attempted to mount a cyber attack on Israel`s water system in April.

There has not been a reply from Iran, as of now. Investigations are underway.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

After a mysterious fire broke out at the Natanz nuclear site in Iran, Iranian officials have blamed it on cyber sabotage. However, Israel's Defence Minister retaliated by saying that Israel is not "necessarily" behind every mysterious incident.

After a mysterious fire broke out at the Natanz nuclear site in Iran, Iranian officials have blamed it on cyber sabotage. However, Israel's Defence Minister retaliated by saying that Israel is not "necessarily" behind every mysterious incident. "Not every incident that transpires in Iran necessarily has something to do with us. All those systems are complex, they have very high safety constraints and I'm not sure they always know how to maintain them," said Benny Gantz. Also read: Iran threatens retaliation after what it calls possible cyber attack on nuclear site The one-storey underground Natanz site was partly burned in a fire on Thursday. The building is the monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency as it is believed to be a focus point of the country's uranium enrichment programme. Israel is believed to be the region's only nuclear power. The country has pledged to never allow Iran to obtain any form of atomic weapons and says its atomic programme is peaceful. The comment from Israel came after reports stated that Iran thinks the reason behind this fire could either be a cyber sabotage, or simply Israel or the US. However, the statements were issued by unnamed sources in a news wire agency, and the sources did not offer any evidence to support their words. Last month, Israeli security cabinet minister Zeev Elkin said Iran had attempted to mount a cyber attack on Israel`s water system in April. There has not been a reply from Iran, as of now. Investigations are underway. (With inputs from Reuters)

Israel 'not necessarily' behind every Iran incident: Israel's Defence Minister

As the UK reopened its pubs on Saturday after March, the Boris Johnson government was earlier worried if the people would maintain social distance and wear masks.

On Sunday, the Health Minister Matt Hancock has thanked people for 'behaving themselves' while they are enjoying their summer.

"From what I've seen, although there`s some pictures to the contrary, very very largely people have acted responsibly," he told a local media channel.

"Overall, I'm pleased with what happened yesterday. It was really good to see people out and about, and largely socially distancing," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-takes-its-first-steps-towards-normal-life-pubs-and-hairdressers-reopen-310715">Also read:&nbsp;England takes its first steps towards normal life; pubs and hairdressers reopen</a>

As the pubs reopened, British locals flocked outdoors to enjoy the summer time with a drink and a trip to the beaches. On the beaches and the pubs, people were urged to wear face masks and maintain social distance at all times.

Hancock has also announced the the government will be putting 8.4 million pounds ($10.49 million) into a new study to examine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on patients.

"As we continue our fight against this global pandemic, we are learning more and more about the impact the disease can have, not only on immediate health, but longer-term physical and mental health too," he said.

The study will be conducted by the&nbsp;University of Leicester and local hospitals. Around 1,000 people will take part in this study and their blood and lung samples will be taken. The participants will also be assessed through advanced imaging. The aim of the study is to learn about all the possible ways the novel coronavirus can affect a human body and to be able to develop new forms of personalised treatment.

Lung and blood samples of the patients will be taken and they will also be assessed by advanced imaging, and the findings will be used to develop new forms of personalised treatment.

As the UK reopened its pubs on Saturday after March, the Boris Johnson government was earlier worried if the people would maintain social distance and wear masks.

As the UK reopened its pubs on Saturday after March, the Boris Johnson government was earlier worried if the people would maintain social distance and wear masks. On Sunday, the Health Minister Matt Hancock has thanked people for 'behaving themselves' while they are enjoying their summer. "From what I've seen, although there`s some pictures to the contrary, very very largely people have acted responsibly," he told a local media channel. "Overall, I'm pleased with what happened yesterday. It was really good to see people out and about, and largely socially distancing," he added. Also read: England takes its first steps towards normal life; pubs and hairdressers reopen As the pubs reopened, British locals flocked outdoors to enjoy the summer time with a drink and a trip to the beaches. On the beaches and the pubs, people were urged to wear face masks and maintain social distance at all times. Hancock has also announced the the government will be putting 8.4 million pounds ($10.49 million) into a new study to examine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on patients. "As we continue our fight against this global pandemic, we are learning more and more about the impact the disease can have, not only on immediate health, but longer-term physical and mental health too," he said. The study will be conducted by the University of Leicester and local hospitals. Around 1,000 people will take part in this study and their blood and lung samples will be taken. The participants will also be assessed through advanced imaging. The aim of the study is to learn about all the possible ways the novel coronavirus can affect a human body and to be able to develop new forms of personalised treatment. Lung and blood samples of the patients will be taken and they will also be assessed by advanced imaging, and the findings will be used to develop new forms of personalised treatment.

COVID 19: UK to invest 10 million in a new study; Health Minister thanks locals

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said.

The driver of the car, a 27-year-old Seattle man, was arrested at the scene of the incident, which occurred at about 1:30 a.m. PDT (0830 GMT), and faces multiple felony charges, Washington State Patrol Trooper Chase Van Cleave said by phone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-in-south-carolina-310067">Also watch:&nbsp;US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Carolina</a>

"He was placed in custody when troopers arrived on scene," Van Cleave said by phone. "The investigation is still ongoing. At this time we`re not suspecting drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash."

Police did not identify the suspect or the victims, both women, one of whom is in her 30s and hospitalized in serious condition. The other woman, who is in her 20s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, Van Cleave said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-explosions-rock-somalian-cities-4-dead-several-injured-310717">Also read:&nbsp;Two explosions rock Somalian cities; 4 dead, several injured</a>

Investigators do not know whether the driver intended to hit the demonstrators, he said. Seattle has been the scene of numerous demonstrations, some of them on interstate highways, since the May 25 killing of George Floyd on a Minneapolis street while he was in police custody, which was captured on video.

A video of the Seattle incident shared on social media shows a lone white car speeding up Interstate-5, swerving to avoid a van that was parked to block the roadway and heading toward a small group of panicked protesters who tried to scurry away.

The car can be seen striking two individuals near the side of the roadway, both of whom were flipped over the car`s roof before landing on the pavement.

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said.

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said. The driver of the car, a 27-year-old Seattle man, was arrested at the scene of the incident, which occurred at about 1:30 a.m. PDT (0830 GMT), and faces multiple felony charges, Washington State Patrol Trooper Chase Van Cleave said by phone. Also watch: US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Carolina "He was placed in custody when troopers arrived on scene," Van Cleave said by phone. "The investigation is still ongoing. At this time we`re not suspecting drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash." Police did not identify the suspect or the victims, both women, one of whom is in her 30s and hospitalized in serious condition. The other woman, who is in her 20s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, Van Cleave said. Also read: Two explosions rock Somalian cities; 4 dead, several injured Investigators do not know whether the driver intended to hit the demonstrators, he said. Seattle has been the scene of numerous demonstrations, some of them on interstate highways, since the May 25 killing of George Floyd on a Minneapolis street while he was in police custody, which was captured on video. A video of the Seattle incident shared on social media shows a lone white car speeding up Interstate-5, swerving to avoid a van that was parked to block the roadway and heading toward a small group of panicked protesters who tried to scurry away. The car can be seen striking two individuals near the side of the roadway, both of whom were flipped over the car`s roof before landing on the pavement.

Two Seattle protesters hit by car on highway, one critically injured

Bangladesh has reported 3, 288 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 1,59,679, while nearly 2,000 people have succumbed to the novel coronavirus, a senior health official said on Saturday.

A total of 29 people died from coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, pushing the number of fatalities to 1,997, said Dr Nasima Sultana, additional director general (administration) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/millions-at-risk-in-bangladesh-as-monsoon-floods-add-to-coronavirus-worries-309937">Also read:&nbsp;Millions at risk in Bangladesh as monsoon floods add to coronavirus worries</a>

Bangladesh remains the 18th worst affected country in the world in terms of the number of cases. Globally, 5.2 lakh people have died due to the disease and more than 11 million have been infected. The US leads both in terms of the number of deaths and infections, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

In Bangladesh, the total number of infections stands at 1,59,679. A total of 3,288 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. With this, the current infection rate is 22.33 per cent. The total infection rate so far stands at 19.19 per cent, The Daily Star reported.

As many as 2,673 COVID-19 patients have recovered in the last 24 hours. The total number of recoveries has reached 70,721 and the current recovery rate is 44.29 per cent, the DGHS said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/23-die-several-missing-after-ferry-accident-in-bangladesh-report-309346">Also read:&nbsp;23 die, several missing after ferry accident in Bangladesh: Report</a>

The DGHS official said 13,871 samples had been collected from the suspected COVID-19 patients around the country in the last 24 hours.

In total, 832,074 tests have been conducted so far ? of which 19.19 per cent tested positive, she said.

"No personal protective equipment (PPE) has been collected in the last 24 hours. The government now has 120,881 in reserve. There are also enough general and ICU beds available in all hospitals dedicated for COVID-19 treatment,"Sultana was quoted as saying by the Dhaka Tribune.

On March 8, health authorities in Bangladesh had reported the first three cases of COVID-19. The country recorded its first fatality on March 18.

The novel coronavirus originated in China's Wuhan city in late December last year and quickly spread throughout the world, becoming a pandemic in less than three months.

Bangladesh has reported 3, 288 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 1,59,679, while nearly 2,000 people have succumbed to the novel coronavirus, a senior health official said on Saturday.

Bangladesh has reported 3, 288 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 1,59,679, while nearly 2,000 people have succumbed to the novel coronavirus, a senior health official said on Saturday. A total of 29 people died from coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, pushing the number of fatalities to 1,997, said Dr Nasima Sultana, additional director general (administration) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Also read: Millions at risk in Bangladesh as monsoon floods add to coronavirus worries Bangladesh remains the 18th worst affected country in the world in terms of the number of cases. Globally, 5.2 lakh people have died due to the disease and more than 11 million have been infected. The US leads both in terms of the number of deaths and infections, according to Johns Hopkins University data. In Bangladesh, the total number of infections stands at 1,59,679. A total of 3,288 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. With this, the current infection rate is 22.33 per cent. The total infection rate so far stands at 19.19 per cent, The Daily Star reported. As many as 2,673 COVID-19 patients have recovered in the last 24 hours. The total number of recoveries has reached 70,721 and the current recovery rate is 44.29 per cent, the DGHS said. Also read: 23 die, several missing after ferry accident in Bangladesh: Report The DGHS official said 13,871 samples had been collected from the suspected COVID-19 patients around the country in the last 24 hours. In total, 832,074 tests have been conducted so far ? of which 19.19 per cent tested positive, she said. "No personal protective equipment (PPE) has been collected in the last 24 hours. The government now has 120,881 in reserve. There are also enough general and ICU beds available in all hospitals dedicated for COVID-19 treatment,"Sultana was quoted as saying by the Dhaka Tribune. On March 8, health authorities in Bangladesh had reported the first three cases of COVID-19. The country recorded its first fatality on March 18. The novel coronavirus originated in China's Wuhan city in late December last year and quickly spread throughout the world, becoming a pandemic in less than three months.

Bangladesh records 3,288 new COVID-19 cases, death toll nears 2,000

As the US is trying to facilitate the Afghanistan peace talks,&nbsp;US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad recently visited Afghanistan to mediate the peace talks.

As a result of the talks, Khalilzad has announced through twitter that Taliban is ready to cooperate to bring peace in Afghanistan.

"In follow on mtg with the Taliban, we underscored the economic development oppts that will follow a sustainable peace. We agreed developing plans in support of peace can never start too early, assuming the 2 sides can overcome final hurdles on the path to intra-Afghan negotiations," Khalilzad tweeted.

"Mullah Baradar and his team were engaged and the Taliban recognize all Afghans will have to make compromises in order to draw in the required investment in Afghanistan`s future," he added.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1/3 <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamUSDFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AdamUSDFC</a> &amp; I have concluded mtgs in Doha. With QIA &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/qatar_fund?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@qatar_fund</a>, we discussed the possibility of co-investing in Afghan projects to consolidate peace &amp; unlock regional prosperity. The potential to amplify investment impact in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> with like-minded partners is real.
— U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1279137132263677952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The three-part tweet series came out on Saturday after he chaired meetings in&nbsp;Tashkent with Finance Minister Kamilov, Special Rep Irgashev and Foreign Ministers of the remaining C5+1 -- Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic.

As the US is trying to facilitate the Afghanistan peace talks, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad recently visited Afghanistan to mediate the peace talks.

As the US is trying to facilitate the Afghanistan peace talks, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad recently visited Afghanistan to mediate the peace talks. As a result of the talks, Khalilzad has announced through twitter that Taliban is ready to cooperate to bring peace in Afghanistan. "In follow on mtg with the Taliban, we underscored the economic development oppts that will follow a sustainable peace. We agreed developing plans in support of peace can never start too early, assuming the 2 sides can overcome final hurdles on the path to intra-Afghan negotiations," Khalilzad tweeted. "Mullah Baradar and his team were engaged and the Taliban recognize all Afghans will have to make compromises in order to draw in the required investment in Afghanistan`s future," he added. 1/3 @AdamUSDFC & I have concluded mtgs in Doha. With QIA & @qatar_fund, we discussed the possibility of co-investing in Afghan projects to consolidate peace & unlock regional prosperity. The potential to amplify investment impact in #Afghanistan with like-minded partners is real. — U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad (@US4AfghanPeace) July 3, 2020 × The three-part tweet series came out on Saturday after he chaired meetings in Tashkent with Finance Minister Kamilov, Special Rep Irgashev and Foreign Ministers of the remaining C5+1 -- Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic.

Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad

Intelligence that Afghan militants might have accepted Russian bounties for killing American troops did not scuttle the US-Taliban agreement or President Donald Trump's plan to withdraw thousands more troops from the war.

It did give critics of the deal another reason to say the Taliban shouldn't be trusted.

The bounty information was included in Trump's president's daily intelligence brief on February 27, according to intelligence officials, and two days later, the US and Taliban signed an agreement in Qatar.

The agreement clears the way for America to end 19 years in Afghanistan and gives Trump a way to make good on his promise to end US involvement in what he calls "endless wars."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghan-forces-destroy-let-camp-at-afghanistan-pakistan-border-310390">Also watch:&nbsp;Afghan forces destroy LeT camp at Afghanistan-Pakistan border</a>

On March 3, three days after the agreement was signed, the president had a 35-minute phone call with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Taliban and head of their political office in Qatar.

After reports of the bounties broke in late June, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had a video conference with Baradar to make it clear that the US expects the Taliban to live up to their commitments.

Under the agreement, the US will pull all its troops out of Afghanistan by May 2021.

So far the US has reduced US troop presence in Afghanistan from 12,000 to 8,600 - a target reached ahead of schedule. Now, Trump is considering when and how quickly to further shrink the U.S. Military footprint.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-concerned-afghan-violence-aimed-at-derailing-peace-talks-310176">Also read:&nbsp;UN concerned Afghan violence aimed at derailing peace talks</a>

For its part, the Taliban committed to reducing violence, cutting ties with al-Qaida and sitting down with other Afghans to craft a political road map for their country's future.

The Taliban have pledged to ensure that the areas they control about half the country at this time&nbsp;are not used by militant groups to target the U.S. And its allies.

Critics of the deal like Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., say the agreement is simply a "cover for withdrawal."

"I have serious concerns with how this agreement has been pursued," Waltz said.

"The Taliban has shown repeatedly "through violence and bombings both before and after the deal was signed ? that they are not serious about adhering to their end of the bargain."

The White House insists the president was not aware of the intelligence but that the administration responded to the information to protect troops.

Administration officials say Russia along with other countries, including Iran&nbsp;have been providing the Taliban money and guns for years, although bounties would signal stepped up Russian aggression.

Military experts note that the Taliban didn't need any monetary incentive to kill Americans.

They also point out that the U.S. Worked against the Soviets in the late 1980s, providing militants with shoulder-held anti-aircraft Stinger missiles, which turned around the course of the war and sped-up negotiated Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan.

"Bounties or not, what we judge the Taliban on is whether they honor the deal," said Scott Smith, an expert on Afghanistan peace processes with the US Institute of Peace.

Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, defense officials and Afghan experts claim the Taliban has not taken steps to live up to the now four-month-old agreement and they are skeptical the Taliban will ever break with al-Qaida, which conducted the 9/11 attacks.

The US general overseeing American military operations in Afghanistan, Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie, said in mid-June that he is dubious of the Taliban's intentions to fulfil its commitments, suggesting that he would not favour a rapid US withdrawal.

McKenzie said it is an open question whether the Taliban will keep Afghanistan from being the launchpad for attacks on the US.

"They have not yet completely made that case," McKenzie said, adding that "time is now beginning to grow short.? 
Mike Morell, former CIA acting and deputy director, told the House Homeland Security Committee's intelligence and counterterrorism panel on June 24 that the Taliban is militarily and politically stronger than at any time since 2001 when the Taliban refused to hand over al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, who orchestrated the 9/11 attacks.

"I believe that the Taliban, in its peace negotiations with the United States, have told us what we want to hear in order to encourage us to leave the country," Morell said.

Thomas Joscelyn, a long time critic of the deal at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, said the Taliban have repeatedly said al-Qaida has not been in Afghanistan since 2001.

"Without any verification or enforcement mechanisms -- and there are no such provisions specified in the text of the deal released to the public --&nbsp;there is no reason to think the Taliban is telling the truth now," he said.

The Defense Department's latest report on the war said the Taliban has stepped up violence against Afghan forces, but has avoided attacks on US or coalition troops.

The militants have joined with Afghan and US forces in hitting Islamic State fighters hard, pressuring the group to relinquish control of an area in eastern Afghanistan. But IS still has the ability to conduct mass-casualty attacks, the report said.

The report also said US-led counterterrorism operations have degraded al-Qaida, which now poses only a "limited threat' to the US.

The Pentagon report said, however, that the Taliban maintain close ties to al-Qaida.

Pompeo says only a couple hundred active al-Qaida fighters remain in Afghanistan.

On Thursday, Pompeo hinted, without elaborating, that he'd seen indications that the Taliban are no longer going to let al-Qaida operate in Afghanistan.

Intelligence that Afghan militants might have accepted Russian bounties for killing American troops did not scuttle the US-Taliban agreement or President Donald Trump's plan to withdraw thousands more troops from the war.

Intelligence that Afghan militants might have accepted Russian bounties for killing American troops did not scuttle the US-Taliban agreement or President Donald Trump's plan to withdraw thousands more troops from the war. It did give critics of the deal another reason to say the Taliban shouldn't be trusted. The bounty information was included in Trump's president's daily intelligence brief on February 27, according to intelligence officials, and two days later, the US and Taliban signed an agreement in Qatar. The agreement clears the way for America to end 19 years in Afghanistan and gives Trump a way to make good on his promise to end US involvement in what he calls "endless wars." Also watch: Afghan forces destroy LeT camp at Afghanistan-Pakistan border On March 3, three days after the agreement was signed, the president had a 35-minute phone call with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Taliban and head of their political office in Qatar. After reports of the bounties broke in late June, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had a video conference with Baradar to make it clear that the US expects the Taliban to live up to their commitments. Under the agreement, the US will pull all its troops out of Afghanistan by May 2021. So far the US has reduced US troop presence in Afghanistan from 12,000 to 8,600 - a target reached ahead of schedule. Now, Trump is considering when and how quickly to further shrink the U.S. Military footprint. Also read: UN concerned Afghan violence aimed at derailing peace talks For its part, the Taliban committed to reducing violence, cutting ties with al-Qaida and sitting down with other Afghans to craft a political road map for their country's future. The Taliban have pledged to ensure that the areas they control about half the country at this time are not used by militant groups to target the U.S. And its allies. Critics of the deal like Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., say the agreement is simply a "cover for withdrawal." "I have serious concerns with how this agreement has been pursued," Waltz said. "The Taliban has shown repeatedly "through violence and bombings both before and after the deal was signed ? that they are not serious about adhering to their end of the bargain." The White House insists the president was not aware of the intelligence but that the administration responded to the information to protect troops. Administration officials say Russia along with other countries, including Iran have been providing the Taliban money and guns for years, although bounties would signal stepped up Russian aggression. Military experts note that the Taliban didn't need any monetary incentive to kill Americans. They also point out that the U.S. Worked against the Soviets in the late 1980s, providing militants with shoulder-held anti-aircraft Stinger missiles, which turned around the course of the war and sped-up negotiated Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. "Bounties or not, what we judge the Taliban on is whether they honor the deal," said Scott Smith, an expert on Afghanistan peace processes with the US Institute of Peace. Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, defense officials and Afghan experts claim the Taliban has not taken steps to live up to the now four-month-old agreement and they are skeptical the Taliban will ever break with al-Qaida, which conducted the 9/11 attacks. The US general overseeing American military operations in Afghanistan, Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie, said in mid-June that he is dubious of the Taliban's intentions to fulfil its commitments, suggesting that he would not favour a rapid US withdrawal. McKenzie said it is an open question whether the Taliban will keep Afghanistan from being the launchpad for attacks on the US. "They have not yet completely made that case," McKenzie said, adding that "time is now beginning to grow short.? Mike Morell, former CIA acting and deputy director, told the House Homeland Security Committee's intelligence and counterterrorism panel on June 24 that the Taliban is militarily and politically stronger than at any time since 2001 when the Taliban refused to hand over al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, who orchestrated the 9/11 attacks. "I believe that the Taliban, in its peace negotiations with the United States, have told us what we want to hear in order to encourage us to leave the country," Morell said. Thomas Joscelyn, a long time critic of the deal at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, said the Taliban have repeatedly said al-Qaida has not been in Afghanistan since 2001. "Without any verification or enforcement mechanisms -- and there are no such provisions specified in the text of the deal released to the public -- there is no reason to think the Taliban is telling the truth now," he said. The Defense Department's latest report on the war said the Taliban has stepped up violence against Afghan forces, but has avoided attacks on US or coalition troops. The militants have joined with Afghan and US forces in hitting Islamic State fighters hard, pressuring the group to relinquish control of an area in eastern Afghanistan. But IS still has the ability to conduct mass-casualty attacks, the report said. The report also said US-led counterterrorism operations have degraded al-Qaida, which now poses only a "limited threat' to the US. The Pentagon report said, however, that the Taliban maintain close ties to al-Qaida. Pompeo says only a couple hundred active al-Qaida fighters remain in Afghanistan. On Thursday, Pompeo hinted, without elaborating, that he'd seen indications that the Taliban are no longer going to let al-Qaida operate in Afghanistan.

Critics of US-Taliban deal say militants can't be trusted

Mexican officials will install health checkpoints at various entry points along its northern border this weekend, as both Mexican and U.S. officials fear a surge of crossings for the July 4 holiday could spread the coronavirus.

Mexican consulates across the United States issued warnings last week on social media of the ramped-up measures scheduled for July 2 through July 5, and urged people to refrain from crossing for recreation or tourism.

A ban on non-essential border travel has been in place since March in an attempt by both governments to limit coronavirus infections, yet cross-border traffic has been busy.

Mexico`s northern border region is home to a large population of U.S. citizens, green card holders and dual nationals who are typically free to cross back and forth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/high-flying-face-masks-arrive-at-mexican-hospitals-by-drone-310547">Also watch|&nbsp;High-flying face masks arrive at Mexican hospitals by drone</a>

In Sonora, which has Mexico`s third-highest coronavirus rate per capita and sits opposite Arizona, Governor Claudia Pavlovich said health screenings would span beaches and towns frequented by Mexicans and tourists.

Neighboring Baja California, including the bustling border city of Tijuana across from San Diego, ranks fifth for most coronavirus cases per capita.

Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas states have each registered at least several thousand confirmed cases, and all sit opposite Texas, which is grappling with a surge in infections including a record number of hospitalizations on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-pandemic-mexico-earthquake-evacuations-clashed-with-social-distancing-308728">Also watch|&nbsp;COVID-19 Pandemic: Mexico earthquake evacuations clashed with social distancing</a>

U.S. Ambassador Christopher Landau last week urged people to stay put in one country or the other over the Independence Day weekend. Hundreds of thousands of people cross by land per day despite the ban on non-essential travel, he said.

"If U.S. citizens continue to make casual cross-border trips, the restrictions will increase, not decrease," Landau wrote on Twitter.

"Whichever side of the border you live on, this is NOT the time to cross to shop, eat, or visit family on the other side."Mexico steps up border checks to keep coronavirus at bay over July 4 holiday

Mexican officials will install health checkpoints at various entry points along its northern border this weekend, as both Mexican and U.S. officials fear a surge of crossings for the July 4 holiday could spread the coronavirus.

Mexican officials will install health checkpoints at various entry points along its northern border this weekend, as both Mexican and U.S. officials fear a surge of crossings for the July 4 holiday could spread the coronavirus. Mexican consulates across the United States issued warnings last week on social media of the ramped-up measures scheduled for July 2 through July 5, and urged people to refrain from crossing for recreation or tourism. A ban on non-essential border travel has been in place since March in an attempt by both governments to limit coronavirus infections, yet cross-border traffic has been busy. Mexico`s northern border region is home to a large population of U.S. citizens, green card holders and dual nationals who are typically free to cross back and forth. Also watch| High-flying face masks arrive at Mexican hospitals by drone In Sonora, which has Mexico`s third-highest coronavirus rate per capita and sits opposite Arizona, Governor Claudia Pavlovich said health screenings would span beaches and towns frequented by Mexicans and tourists. Neighboring Baja California, including the bustling border city of Tijuana across from San Diego, ranks fifth for most coronavirus cases per capita. Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas states have each registered at least several thousand confirmed cases, and all sit opposite Texas, which is grappling with a surge in infections including a record number of hospitalizations on Friday. Also watch| COVID-19 Pandemic: Mexico earthquake evacuations clashed with social distancing U.S. Ambassador Christopher Landau last week urged people to stay put in one country or the other over the Independence Day weekend. Hundreds of thousands of people cross by land per day despite the ban on non-essential travel, he said. "If U.S. citizens continue to make casual cross-border trips, the restrictions will increase, not decrease," Landau wrote on Twitter. "Whichever side of the border you live on, this is NOT the time to cross to shop, eat, or visit family on the other side."Mexico steps up border checks to keep coronavirus at bay over July 4 holiday

Mexico steps up border checks to keep coronavirus at bay over July 4 holiday

An official from the Russian Orthodox Church feels converting the&nbsp;Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque would be an "unacceptable" move and would take them back in time.

"We can`t go back to the Middle Ages now," Metropolitan Hilarion, chairman of the Moscow Patriarchate's department for external church relations, said on state television, according to local media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/istanbuls-iconic-hagia-sophias-fate-hangs-in-balance-309863">Have a look|&nbsp;Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia's fate hangs in balance</a>

The discussion started after the&nbsp;Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan&nbsp;proposed converting the popular tourist attraction to a mosque.

Hagia Sophia is a popular museum in Istanbul. It is a sixth century building at the heart of both the Christian Byzantine and Muslim Ottoman empires. It also has the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, the proposal was not welcomed by a lot of people. The Turkish President's proposal has attracted a lot of criticism from religious and political leaders from all over the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unesco-world-heritage-site-hagia-sophia-to-be-turned-into-a-mosque-310241">Also watch|&nbsp;UNESCO world heritage site Hagia Sophia to be turned into a Mosque</a>

Hilarion has also alleged that the proposal is a political move, rather than a religious move.

"We live in a multipolar world, we live in a multi-confessional world and we need to respect the feelings of believers," he said.

He added, "We believe that in the current conditions this act is an unacceptable violation of religious freedom."

So much so, the US Secretary of State has also stated the the US government has also urged the Turkish government to preserve the monument, instead of converting it.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual head of some 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide and based in Istanbul, said converting it into a mosque would disappoint Christians and would "fracture" East and West.

(With inputs from agencies)

An official from the Russian Orthodox Church feels converting the Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque would be an "unacceptable" move and would take them back in time.

An official from the Russian Orthodox Church feels converting the Hagia Sophia from a museum to a mosque would be an "unacceptable" move and would take them back in time. "We can`t go back to the Middle Ages now," Metropolitan Hilarion, chairman of the Moscow Patriarchate's department for external church relations, said on state television, according to local media. Have a look| Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia's fate hangs in balance The discussion started after the Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan proposed converting the popular tourist attraction to a mosque. Hagia Sophia is a popular museum in Istanbul. It is a sixth century building at the heart of both the Christian Byzantine and Muslim Ottoman empires. It also has the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the proposal was not welcomed by a lot of people. The Turkish President's proposal has attracted a lot of criticism from religious and political leaders from all over the country. Also watch| UNESCO world heritage site Hagia Sophia to be turned into a Mosque Hilarion has also alleged that the proposal is a political move, rather than a religious move. "We live in a multipolar world, we live in a multi-confessional world and we need to respect the feelings of believers," he said. He added, "We believe that in the current conditions this act is an unacceptable violation of religious freedom." So much so, the US Secretary of State has also stated the the US government has also urged the Turkish government to preserve the monument, instead of converting it. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual head of some 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide and based in Istanbul, said converting it into a mosque would disappoint Christians and would "fracture" East and West. (With inputs from agencies)

Respect feelings of believers: Russian Orthodox Church comments on conversion of Hagia Sophia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-president-vladimir-putin-signs-order-to-allow-his-rule-till-2036-310728">Russia President Vladimir Putin signs order to allow his rule till 2036</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/02/147676-russian-president-vladimir-putin-1.jpg?itok=XeQJR0lx" />

Putin also decreed the constitutional amendments would enter force on July 4 after they were backed by almost 78% of Russians, according to official results, in a week-long vote that ended on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-decides-to-go-big-for-july-4-amid-rising-coronavirus-cases-310726">Trump decides to 'go big' for July 4 amid rising coronavirus cases</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148118-donald-trump.jpg?itok=ZfGjXBvY" />

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has made it clear that she has warned the federal government about the possible spread of the virus, but she cannot stop the event as it is happening on federal land, which is not in her jurisdiction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/catalonia-curbs-movement-of-200000-people-after-new-coronavirus-outbreak-310701">Catalonia curbs movement of 2,00,000 people after new coronavirus outbreak</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148103-catalonia-reuters.jpg?itok=e1_o9MBk" />

Residents in Segria, which includes the city of Lleida, will not be able to leave the area from 12 noon (1000 GMT) on Saturday, but will not be confined to their homes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/an-open-letter-to-chinese-president-xi-jinping-310718">An open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/10/132290-xi-in-wuhan1.jpg?itok=-OSJzUyW" />

As the first sign of making amends, which our persistent hope is that you want to, you must unblock WION.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democracy-books-disappear-from-hong-kong-libraries-310691">Democracy books disappear from Hong Kong libraries</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148098-hong-kong-libraries-afp.jpg?itok=u4p-64gI" />

Beijing's new national security law is the most radical shift in how the semi-autonomous city is run since it was handed back to China by Britain in 1997.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-australias-victoria-reports-highest-jump-since-march-with-108-cases-310732">COVID 19: Australia's Victoria reports highest jump since March with 108 cases</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148120-coronavirus-in-australia.jpg?itok=cf-lN-sQ" />

Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and step out only in case of emergencies. They have also been been urging people to wear face masks and maintain social distance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-rally-across-australia-in-black-lives-matter-protests-310666">Thousands rally across Australia in Black Lives Matter protests</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148079-australia-blm.jpeg?itok=xx3MzVbN" />

Another protest is planned in Sydney on Sunday, a month since the first Black Lives Matter rallies in Australia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wirecard-fraud-ex-coo-marsaleks-immigration-papers-in-philippines-were-faked-310671">Wirecard fraud: Ex-COO Marsalek's immigration papers in Philippines were fake</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148083-wirecard.jpg?itok=2fm2grr5" />

The officials who are suspects of falsifying this information have been fired from the job and are under investigation, as of now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-left-wing-cultural-revolution-rails-against-removal-of-statues-at-mount-rushmore-310621">Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148046-untitled-design-93.jpg?itok=UCboo8mz" />

Speaking underneath a famed landmark that depicts four US presidents, Trump warned that the demonstrations over racial inequality in American society threatened the foundations of the US political system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-takes-its-first-steps-towards-normal-life-pubs-and-hairdressers-reopen-310715">England takes its first steps towards normal life; pubs and hairdressers reopen</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/04/148112-pint-1.jpg?itok=L1ZTx-78" />

Pubs were allowed to start serving from 6 a.m., sparking worries of over-indulgence on what the media dubbed a “Super Saturday” of coronavirus restrictions being eased. Some hairdressers were reported to have opened at the stroke of midnight.

Russia President Vladimir Putin signs order to allow his rule till 2036 Putin also decreed the constitutional amendments would enter force on July 4 after they were backed by almost 78% of Russians, according to official results, in a week-long vote that ended on Wednesday.

Russia President Vladimir Putin signs order to allow his rule till 2036 Putin also decreed the constitutional amendments would enter force on July 4 after they were backed by almost 78% of Russians, according to official results, in a week-long vote that ended on Wednesday. Trump decides to 'go big' for July 4 amid rising coronavirus cases Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has made it clear that she has warned the federal government about the possible spread of the virus, but she cannot stop the event as it is happening on federal land, which is not in her jurisdiction. Catalonia curbs movement of 2,00,000 people after new coronavirus outbreak Residents in Segria, which includes the city of Lleida, will not be able to leave the area from 12 noon (1000 GMT) on Saturday, but will not be confined to their homes. An open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping As the first sign of making amends, which our persistent hope is that you want to, you must unblock WION. Democracy books disappear from Hong Kong libraries Beijing's new national security law is the most radical shift in how the semi-autonomous city is run since it was handed back to China by Britain in 1997. COVID 19: Australia's Victoria reports highest jump since March with 108 cases Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and step out only in case of emergencies. They have also been been urging people to wear face masks and maintain social distance. Thousands rally across Australia in Black Lives Matter protests Another protest is planned in Sydney on Sunday, a month since the first Black Lives Matter rallies in Australia. Wirecard fraud: Ex-COO Marsalek's immigration papers in Philippines were fake The officials who are suspects of falsifying this information have been fired from the job and are under investigation, as of now. Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore Speaking underneath a famed landmark that depicts four US presidents, Trump warned that the demonstrations over racial inequality in American society threatened the foundations of the US political system. England takes its first steps towards normal life; pubs and hairdressers reopen Pubs were allowed to start serving from 6 a.m., sparking worries of over-indulgence on what the media dubbed a “Super Saturday” of coronavirus restrictions being eased. Some hairdressers were reported to have opened at the stroke of midnight.

Top 10 world news today: UK reopens to normal life, Trump goes big for July 4 and more

Australia's second most populous state, Victoria, has recorded its biggest jump in number of positive coronavirus cases since late March.

The city reported&nbsp;108 new cases on Saturday, whereas there were 66 cases reported on Friday and&nbsp;and more than 70 new cases in each of the previous four days.

This has increased the focus on the reimposition of the lockdown in Victoria, and has raised concerns of a possible second wave in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-australia-witnesses-record-spike-in-months-amid-fears-of-second-wave-309265">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: Australia witnesses record spike in months amid fears of second wave</a>

"These numbers are a very real concern to all of us," Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told a news conference.

Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and step out only in case of emergencies. They have also been been urging people to wear face masks and maintain social distance.

Meanwhile, Melbourne has sealed nine residential towers, which houses over 3,000 residents, after several residents in the towers tested positive. Police will be placed on each floor of the towers and law enforcement authorities will also control access points.

Australia's second most populous state, Victoria, has recorded its biggest jump in number of positive coronavirus cases since late March. The city reported 108 new cases on Saturday, whereas there were 66 cases reported on Friday and and more than 70 new cases in each of the previous four days.

Australia's second most populous state, Victoria, has recorded its biggest jump in number of positive coronavirus cases since late March. The city reported 108 new cases on Saturday, whereas there were 66 cases reported on Friday and and more than 70 new cases in each of the previous four days. This has increased the focus on the reimposition of the lockdown in Victoria, and has raised concerns of a possible second wave in the country. Also read| COVID-19: Australia witnesses record spike in months amid fears of second wave "These numbers are a very real concern to all of us," Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told a news conference. Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and step out only in case of emergencies. They have also been been urging people to wear face masks and maintain social distance. Meanwhile, Melbourne has sealed nine residential towers, which houses over 3,000 residents, after several residents in the towers tested positive. Police will be placed on each floor of the towers and law enforcement authorities will also control access points.

COVID 19: Australia's Victoria reports highest jump since March with 108 cases

As usual the US President Donald Trump has decided to go against the expert opinions and defy all health protocols issued by health experts regarding spread of the novel coronavirus.

The US is one of the worst affected countries by coronavirus in the world. Amid rising cases, health officials are urging Americans to stay indoors and celebrate America's Independence day, July 04, with close family and friends only.

However, Donald Trump has decided to once again ignore the warnings and&nbsp;is going big for what he is promising will be a "special evening" in the nation's capital.

Trump started his holiday weekend by travelling to&nbsp;Mt. Rushmore for a fireworks display near the iconic mountain carvings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-left-wing-cultural-revolution-rails-against-removal-of-statues-at-mount-rushmore-310621">Also read:&nbsp;Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore</a>

Now, he will be attending his "Salute for America" celebration on Saturday with a speech from the South lawn of the White House. Trump believes this evening will be a celebration of the American heritage. The speech will be followed by an extravagant display of fireworks, which is expected to be attended by thousands of people at the National Mall.

This pre-planned event has attracted a lot of criticism as thousands gathered even at Mt. Rushmore gathering where he did not talk much about the pandemic and the South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem insisted social distancing wasn't necessary and masks were optional.&nbsp;

While this has garnered a lot of criticism, it has&nbsp;not come as a surprise as Trump has been conducting his election rallies and all other social gatherings amid a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has made it clear that she has warned the federal government about the possible spread of the virus, but she cannot stop the event as it is happening on federal land, which is not in her jurisdiction.

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Just because someone invites you to a party doesn't mean you have to go
— Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurielBowser/status/1279127772867301376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Interior officials said they would hand out 300,000 face coverings to spectators who gather on the National Mall. Interior Department Secretary David Bernhardt said visitors would be encouraged to wear masks and keep a six-foot distance from one another. However, this has not been made clear if these instructions will merely be suggestions or mandatory rules.

Health officials have warned against this gathering and have suggested cancelling it as they fear the event can spread the virus at a greater rate.

Majority of July 4 related events, including fireworks, parties and parades,&nbsp;have been cancelled in other parts of the country.

A country is always expected to follow their leader. However, the leader, in this case, has decided to lead his citizens astray.

(With inputs from agencies)

As usual the US President Donald Trump has decided to go against the expert opinions and defy all health protocols issued by health experts regarding spread of the novel coronavirus.

As usual the US President Donald Trump has decided to go against the expert opinions and defy all health protocols issued by health experts regarding spread of the novel coronavirus. The US is one of the worst affected countries by coronavirus in the world. Amid rising cases, health officials are urging Americans to stay indoors and celebrate America's Independence day, July 04, with close family and friends only. However, Donald Trump has decided to once again ignore the warnings and is going big for what he is promising will be a "special evening" in the nation's capital. Trump started his holiday weekend by travelling to Mt. Rushmore for a fireworks display near the iconic mountain carvings. Also read: Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore Now, he will be attending his "Salute for America" celebration on Saturday with a speech from the South lawn of the White House. Trump believes this evening will be a celebration of the American heritage. The speech will be followed by an extravagant display of fireworks, which is expected to be attended by thousands of people at the National Mall. This pre-planned event has attracted a lot of criticism as thousands gathered even at Mt. Rushmore gathering where he did not talk much about the pandemic and the South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem insisted social distancing wasn't necessary and masks were optional. While this has garnered a lot of criticism, it has not come as a surprise as Trump has been conducting his election rallies and all other social gatherings amid a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has made it clear that she has warned the federal government about the possible spread of the virus, but she cannot stop the event as it is happening on federal land, which is not in her jurisdiction. Just because someone invites you to a party doesn't mean you have to go — Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) July 3, 2020 × Interior officials said they would hand out 300,000 face coverings to spectators who gather on the National Mall. Interior Department Secretary David Bernhardt said visitors would be encouraged to wear masks and keep a six-foot distance from one another. However, this has not been made clear if these instructions will merely be suggestions or mandatory rules. Health officials have warned against this gathering and have suggested cancelling it as they fear the event can spread the virus at a greater rate. Majority of July 4 related events, including fireworks, parties and parades, have been cancelled in other parts of the country. A country is always expected to follow their leader. However, the leader, in this case, has decided to lead his citizens astray. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump decides to 'go big' for July 4 amid rising coronavirus cases

It's been a while since we heard from the World Health Organization, a&nbsp;body which in its attempts to please China&nbsp;left the world unprepared to deal with this pandemic.

WHO downplayed the threat and&nbsp;tried to coverup, and eventually delayed the global response.

WION has discussed all these crimes in detail several times in the past. We were even promised an interview to clarify, but the WHO Chief chickened out.

So, we decided to find out just what the body has been upto after failing to live up to its core mission. What we found out is quite worrying.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-who-quietly-changes-coronavirus-timeline-310590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinablockswion-readers-stand-in-solidarity-with-us-310490">Also read|&nbsp;#ChinaBlocksWION: Readers stand in solidarity with us</a>

The World Health Organization has quietly altered the sequence of events that led to this pandemic, in simpler words, the WHO&nbsp;has changed the very timeline of the coronavirus pandemic.

For six months, WHO claimed that China informed it about the coronavirus on December 31. However, now it has taken a big U-turn

On December 31, 2019, WHO stated,&nbsp;"Wuhan municipal health commission reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan. A novel coronavirus was eventually identified."

WHO clearly stated that the virus was identified on December 31. This statement implied that the virus was reported to the WHO by China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-never-reported-the-existence-of-coronavirus-outbreak-admits-who-310466">Also read|&nbsp;China never reported the existence of coronavirus outbreak, admits WHO</a>

Now, the updated timeline has the same date but WHO has now said, "WHO's country office in the people's republic of china picked up a media statement by the Wuhan municipal health commission from their website on cases of 'viral pneumonia' in Wuhan."

The mention of coronavirus being identified has quietly been removed. The fact that it was reported too has been blacked out. WHO is clearly stating that China did not report the existence of this virus on December 31.

This is not the only change that has been made. The archived timeline stated that on January 01, "WHO had put itself on an emergency footing for dealing with the outbreak..."

"Emergency footing" has smartly been rephrased into "coordinating activities" and an addition has been made.

The WHO says that it "requested information on the reported cluster in Wuhan from Chinese authorities". It took six months for this body to realise it was yet to receive information from China.

Why didn't it clarify back then that no information was provided? If altering information wasn't enough,&nbsp;the WHO has added new dates. The previous timeline made no mention that the WHO received information from China on january 03. This information has smartly been slipped into the new timeline.

"3 january 2020, Chinese officials provided information to WHO on the cluster of cases of viral pneumonia of unknown cause identified in Wuhan"

For six months, the WHO Chief publicly praised China's response. The organization&nbsp;urged the world to not politicise this pandemic, and now they're saying that china never provided information about the coronavirus.

These changes have not only exposed China further, but they have dented the WHO's credibility altogether.

WION strongly feels that the World Health Organization should be held accountable for facilitating this pandemic.

It's been a while since we heard from the World Health Organization, a body which in its attempts to please China left the world unprepared to deal with this pandemic.

It's been a while since we heard from the World Health Organization, a body which in its attempts to please China left the world unprepared to deal with this pandemic. WHO downplayed the threat and tried to coverup, and eventually delayed the global response. WION has discussed all these crimes in detail several times in the past. We were even promised an interview to clarify, but the WHO Chief chickened out. So, we decided to find out just what the body has been upto after failing to live up to its core mission. What we found out is quite worrying. Also read| #ChinaBlocksWION: Readers stand in solidarity with us The World Health Organization has quietly altered the sequence of events that led to this pandemic, in simpler words, the WHO has changed the very timeline of the coronavirus pandemic. For six months, WHO claimed that China informed it about the coronavirus on December 31. However, now it has taken a big U-turn On December 31, 2019, WHO stated, "Wuhan municipal health commission reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan. A novel coronavirus was eventually identified." WHO clearly stated that the virus was identified on December 31. This statement implied that the virus was reported to the WHO by China. Also read| China never reported the existence of coronavirus outbreak, admits WHO Now, the updated timeline has the same date but WHO has now said, "WHO's country office in the people's republic of china picked up a media statement by the Wuhan municipal health commission from their website on cases of 'viral pneumonia' in Wuhan." The mention of coronavirus being identified has quietly been removed. The fact that it was reported too has been blacked out. WHO is clearly stating that China did not report the existence of this virus on December 31. This is not the only change that has been made. The archived timeline stated that on January 01, "WHO had put itself on an emergency footing for dealing with the outbreak..." "Emergency footing" has smartly been rephrased into "coordinating activities" and an addition has been made. The WHO says that it "requested information on the reported cluster in Wuhan from Chinese authorities". It took six months for this body to realise it was yet to receive information from China. Why didn't it clarify back then that no information was provided? If altering information wasn't enough, the WHO has added new dates. The previous timeline made no mention that the WHO received information from China on january 03. This information has smartly been slipped into the new timeline. "3 january 2020, Chinese officials provided information to WHO on the cluster of cases of viral pneumonia of unknown cause identified in Wuhan" For six months, the WHO Chief publicly praised China's response. The organization urged the world to not politicise this pandemic, and now they're saying that china never provided information about the coronavirus. These changes have not only exposed China further, but they have dented the WHO's credibility altogether. WION strongly feels that the World Health Organization should be held accountable for facilitating this pandemic.

COVID-19: WHO takes a U-turn on China; admits China never reported coronavirus

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